A player from the Brazil national team could leave the Premier League and follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo to the Saudi Pro League.

The Saudi Pro League continues its push to become one of the most competitive leagues in the world. With Cristiano Ronaldo as the main figure, clubs are aggressively pursuing more top European talent each transfer window. In this case, the target is a Brazilian midfielder making a mark in the Premier League.

“Newcastle United star Joelinton is back on the radar for the Saudi Pro League, with powerful clubs now very much looking into a possible deal in the January window,” TeamTalk recently reported.

Joelinton has appeared in 20 matches this season, scoring three goals across the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and Carabao Cup. He remains a key piece in coach Eddie Howe’s plans, but that would not necessarily prevent a potential transfer.

“Newcastle would consider a permanent deal for the player, despite Howe having made it clear to the board that he does not want to weaken his squad in the New Year,” the report added. The Brazilian midfielder is under contract with Newcastle until June 30, 2028.

This is not the first time Joelinton has attracted interest from Saudi Pro League clubs. Last summer, there was a possibility he would follow stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Riyad Mahrez, and N’Golo Kante in leaving the Premier League for Asia. That move ultimately fell through, as Newcastle decided to retain one of their top players. Now that could change, with the club seemingly willing to at least consider offers.

Joelinton aiming for a World Cup spot with Brazil

As with all soccer stars, career decisions in this January transfer window will be heavily influenced by the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the tournament less than six months away, no player wants to miss out.

Players who aren’t getting regular minutes at their current clubs often look for moves that increase their chances of making their national team’s 26-man roster. Even those receiving lucrative offers weigh the potential impact of a transfer on their World Cup hopes.

For Joelinton, he has been an established player at Newcastle for years and, barring anything unusual, will have enough matches in the next six months to convince Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti that he deserves a spot in the squad.

How Joelinton has fared under Ancelotti

Under the new coach, Joelinton has struggled to find his place in the national team. He was not included in Ancelotti’s first squad in June and missed the September international break due to injury. In October, he finally got a chance, staying on the bench in a friendly against South Korea and playing 33 minutes against Japan.

However, further physical setbacks kept him out of Brazil’s squad in November. That leaves a less-than-optimistic record for Joelinton: under Ancelotti, he has been called up to only one of four FIFA breaks and played just one match, coming off the bench. His upcoming career decisions could therefore be crucial in securing—or missing—a place in the 2026 World Cup.

The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has always extended beyond goals, trophies, and records.

The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi has always extended beyond goals, trophies, and records. In 2025, it had entered a different arena altogether—one where influence, branding, and global economics matter as much as performances on the pitch. The question being asked across the soccer world is no longer simply who is the better player, but something far more revealing: who truly controls soccer’s financial landscape right now?

At first glance, the numbers appear straightforward. But behind them lies a complex story of leagues reinventing themselves, clubs becoming global brands, and two icons taking radically different paths to extraordinary wealth. One path is built on scale and spectacle. The other is on balance, diversification, and long-term stability.

According to Business Today, the list of soccer’s highest earners in 2025 paints a picture that would have been unthinkable a decade ago. European dominance has fractured. In its place stands a global market shaped by Saudi investment, U.S. media power, and athlete-driven brand empires.

Five years ago, the biggest salaries came almost exclusively from Europe’s elite competitions. In 2025, the financial center of gravity has shifted decisively. Saudi Arabia and MLS are no longer secondary destinations—they are economic superpowers reshaping soccer’s pay scale. At the heart of this transformation sits the game’s most enduring rivalry.

How much has Cristiano Ronaldo earned in 2025?

When Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr, the move was framed as sporting, cultural, and symbolic. In reality, it became something even bigger. His $280 million income in 2025—the highest in soccer—is not simply a salary figure. It is an ecosystem. Economists quoted by Business Today describe Ronaldo’s contract as “soft power wrapped in a soccer deal.” 

His earnings combine wages, image rights, sponsorships, tourism promotion, and league branding. Saudi soccer did not just buy a striker—it bought global attention. Off the pitch, the 40-year-old veteran remains unmatched. Deals with Nike, Binance, and the CR7 brand contribute roughly $50 million annually, with marketing analysts noting that a single Ronaldo social post can generate revenue comparable to a mid-table club’s entire season. This is dominance through scale. Visibility multiplied by reach. Soccer as spectacle and statement.

How much has Lionel Messi earned in 2025?

While Ronaldo represents the Saudi model at its most extreme, Lionel Messi has chosen a fundamentally different route at Inter Miami. His $135 million in 2025 may be lower in raw numbers, but its structure tells a very different story. The Argentine’s income blends salary with equity-based partnerships, most notably with Apple and Adidas. Financial analysts highlight this as one of the most diversified portfolios in elite sport—less volatile, more future-proof.

Rather than maximizing immediate cash, Messi has aligned himself with league growth, media rights expansion, and brand equity that could continue paying dividends long after retirement. His involvement has helped transform MLS viewership, sponsorship value, and global relevance.

Who is the winner?

Here lies the reveal that reframes the entire debate. Cristiano Ronaldo wins on raw numbers. His $280 million is unmatched, a symbol of how Saudi soccer has shattered previous ceilings. He dominates through visibility, scale, and spectacle. In pure annual earnings, there is no contest.

But Lionel Messi wins on structure and sustainability. His wealth is diversified, equity-driven, and designed to grow with the league rather than peak with his career. Financial experts argue that Messi’s model may ultimately generate greater lifetime value, even if it never tops Ronaldo’s yearly highs.

Recent history has already shown what happens when timing, communication, and confidence fall out of sync. This time, the message from inside Casa Milan is clear: they cannot afford to get it wrong again.

At Milan, contract renewals are never just administrative tasks. They are statements of trust, hierarchy, and long-term vision. And right now, with Christian Pulisic firmly established as one of the Rossoneri’s most decisive figures, the club finds itself at a familiar crossroads. Milan wants to secure its American star for the future—but it also knows it’s walking on sensitive ground. Recent history has already shown what happens when timing, communication, and confidence fall out of sync. This time, the message from inside Casa Milan is clear: they cannot afford to get it wrong again.

The Rossoneri’s sporting structure for the current cycle is built around balance. A goalkeeper who saves points, a midfielder who controls tempo, and a forward who decides matches. According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Milan’s leadership is actively working to secure three pillars: Mike Maignan, Luka Modric, and Christian Pulisic.

Each case is different. Modric’s future depends largely on personal choice and age. Maignan’s talks have become complicated. Pulisic’s situation, however, represents something else entirely: an opportunity to act early, decisively, and intelligently. The American’s current deal runs until June 2027, with a club option extending it to 2028. On paper, there is time. In reality, the team understands that timing is everything.

When Pulisic arrived from Chelsea in 2023, he was viewed as a high-upside signing—talented, marketable, but still searching for stability. Two seasons later, he is something far more important. Across all competitions, Pulisic has become Milan’s most reliable attacking outlet. His numbers tell part of the story: double-digit goal contributions in each of his Italian seasons, and nine goals already in the current campaign despite injury interruptions. But statistics alone do not explain his value.

Under Massimiliano Allegri, the 27-year-old has evolved tactically. Less touch-heavy, more surgical. Fewer dribbles, more decisive movements. Seven league goals from just 14 shots underline an efficiency that borders on ruthless. No matter the formation—back four, back three, or hybrid systems—one constant remains: Pulisic starts when fit. He is no longer just a winger. He is Milan’s attacking reference point.

The lesson Milan can’t ignore

This is where the comparison everyone at San Siro wants to avoid surfaces inevitably. The club is still dealing with the fallout of a stalled renewal involving Mike Maignan. A deal that once seemed all but signed was paused after a slight dip in form, triggering frustration, distrust, and a breakdown in relations. That situation forced sporting director Igli Tare into damage control. And it has become a cautionary tale inside the club.

As Milannews.it notes, this exact scenario must not be repeated with Pulisic. The USMNT star’s case offers more breathing room, but also greater responsibility. Unlike Maignan, Pulisic’s trajectory is sharply upward. He is 27, entering his prime, and delivering at the highest level, and allowing ambiguity to linger risks not just unrest, but distraction.

Why Pulisic’s renewal is different

Here is the crucial distinction, and the reason Milan is moving carefully but deliberately. Pulisic is not demanding a correction; he is demanding recognition. Despite limited minutes due to physical issues, his output remains elite: nine goals and two assists in just 14 appearances across competitions. He decides matches without theatrics or controversy. His leadership is quiet but undeniable—expressed through timing, positioning, and responsibility in decisive moments.

This is why the report reveals that CEO Giorgio Furlani is personally involved in Pulisic’s negotiations, a detail that matters. After the Maignan rift, the Rossoneri want clarity, alignment, and respect at the table. The aim is not merely to activate the option clause, but to extend the contract further, with improved terms and long-term security. The message is simple: Milan sees Pulisic as a cornerstone, not a convenience.

Amid uncertainty surrounding his future with Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski offered an honest admission.

For months, Robert Lewandowski’s situation at Barcelona has been under the spotlight in the soccer world. One of the best strikers of this century has yet to define his future beyond the current season, a scenario that has attracted interest from clubs across multiple continents. In that context, he delivered a candid response.

“Right now, I don’t know where I want to play,” Lewandowski said during an interview on Friday with journalist Bogdan Rymanowski, shared on YouTube. “I don’t know which direction to take, but I have no pressure… I have time to make a decision.”

Those comments come at a pivotal moment, as the Polish striker’s contract with Barcelona is set to expire on June 30, 2026. That means that, starting January 1, Robert will be free to negotiate with any club in the world, as FIFA regulations allow players with fewer than six months remaining on their contracts to do so.

“Maybe I’ll start talking about it in some time,” Lewandowski added. “But for now, I had a difficult start to the season. I got injured twice. It also took me time to find my rhythm, knowing how many matches await us in January, February, and March through the end of the season. I’m thinking that in the second half of the season it will probably be good to prepare myself physically, avoid health issues, and simply give everything.”

Finally, the 37-year-old outlined which factors will be key when deciding where he will play in the 2026–27 season. “It’s not about cutting my salary in half,” he said. “A lot depends on the club’s plan and what I want.”

The World Cup is a major goal for Lewandowski

As he weighs his future with Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski is also focused on the Poland national team. They finished second in Group G of the World Cup qualifiers behind the Netherlands and will now have to navigate the European playoffs in hopes of securing a spot in next summer’s FIFA tournament.

Albania will be the first obstacle along that path, and if they advance from the semifinals, they will face either Sweden or Ukraine in the decisive matchup. “They are tough opponents for the Polish national team,” Lewandowski acknowledged in the same interview. “It won’t be easy. But we play Albania at home, with the support of our fans, and that gives us an extra boost.”

If they successfully make it through those rounds and secure a World Cup berth, Poland would be placed into Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the Netherlands, Japan, and Tunisia. It would mark Lewandowski’s third appearance at the sport’s biggest tournament, following Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.

Lewandowski’s ambition

In the middle of the season with Barcelona, and with decisive matches for the Poland national team coming up in March, Robert Lewandowski is unwilling to prioritize one objective over another. “I hope we play these two matches in a way that helps us qualify for the World Cup,” he said. “I want to have it all: qualify for the World Cup, win the Spanish title, the Champions League. I’m aware that these are my final years in soccer.”

Christian Pulisic trails Luka Modric in one key Milan stat this season, and remarkably, the Croatian icon also surpasses the teenage sensation Yamal in the same category.

At first glance, the comparison feels almost unfair. Christian Pulisic, Luka Modric, and Lamine Yamal represent three completely different points on soccer’s timeline: a player in his prime, a teenage phenomenon, and a veteran who has seemingly refused to age. Yet this season at Milan, one quietly revealing number links all three—and it tells a story that says as much about trust, leadership, and endurance as it does about tactics or talent.

However, Christian Pulisic trails Luka Modric in one key Milan stat this season, and remarkably, the Croatian icon also surpasses the teenage sensation Yamal in the same category. For a 40-year-old midfielder to sit at the top of such a metric in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues is more than a curiosity. It is a statement.

When Modric arrived at the San Siro on a free transfer after 13 trophy-laden years at Real Madrid, the reaction was mixed. Admiration, yes—but also questions. Could a 40-year-old truly be the heartbeat of a Serie A side chasing the Scudetto?

A few months into the season, the answer is unequivocal. Modric has become indispensable under Massimiliano Allegri. His calm authority, positional intelligence, and technical clarity have reshaped Milan’s midfield rhythm. There is a visible difference between the club with Modric and the Rossoneri without him.

The numbers back it up. When the Croatian starts, Milan’s points-per-game average hovers around 2.50, and the Rossoneri have lost just once in the league—on the opening day against Cremonese. In contrast, the rare occasions when Allegri left him out of the starting XI ended in defeats, notably against Lazio in the Coppa Italia and Napoli in the Italian Super Cup.

The hidden stat revealed

Midway through the season, Score90 published a list that quietly underlined Modric’s influence.  Despite being 40, Luka Modric leads Milan in Serie A minutes, clocking 1,325 minutes across the first 15 league matches. He has completed the full 90 minutes in all but two games, resting for just 16 minutes on debut and nine minutes in a later win over Udinese. That figure places him above every other Milan player—and comfortably ahead of Christian Pulisic.

For Pulisic, the comparison is not an indictment, but context. The American forward has played 519 Serie A minutes, a number shaped largely by injury interruptions earlier in the campaign. And yet, despite the reduced game time, the American remains Milan’s top scorer, with nine goals in all competitions, including seven in the league. In other words, while the 40-year-old has been the club’s most-used player, Pulisic has been its most decisive in the final third.

Surpassing even Lamine Yamal

Perhaps the most eye-catching comparison is not with Pulisic, but with Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona teenager, widely regarded as the most exciting young player in world soccer, has logged 1,172 minutes in La Liga this season. That is an extraordinary workload for an 18-year-old.

And yet, Modric—22 years older—has played even more. The juxtaposition is staggering. One player is at the dawn of his career, the other approaching its twilight. Still, it is the veteran who leads in endurance and availability.

The Santos star has delivered a message that blends ambition with accountability, a declaration aimed squarely at the national team coach and millions of supporters watching closely.

At 33, with scars from injuries and chapters already written in Europe, the Middle East, and South America, Neymar still speaks like a man who believes his greatest international moment has not yet arrived. As Brazil looks toward 2026 and Carlo Ancelotti prepares to shape a new World Cup cycle, one voice has cut through the noise—confident, emotional, and unmistakably defiant. The Santos star has delivered a message that blends ambition with accountability, a declaration aimed squarely at the national team coach and millions of supporters watching closely. This is not nostalgia; it’s a challenge.

Neymar’s latest club campaign did not begin with headlines about goals or titles. It began with pressure. Back at Santos, the club of his roots, the veteran was tasked with something far removed from glamour: survival. The Peixe were flirting dangerously with relegation, and expectations were heavy.

When the season reached its most critical phase, Neymar stepped forward. He became the central figure in Santos’ late revival, scoring and creating in decisive moments as the club pulled itself clear of the drop zone and finished safely in mid-table. Four goals in the final three games told the story clearly—when the Peixe needed leadership, Neymar delivered. That closing run did more than save a season. It reopened his World Cup dream.

Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023, when a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay ended with a devastating knee injury—an ACL and meniscus tear that sidelined him for months. The recovery was long, both physically and mentally.

Adding to the uncertainty, Neymar has not yet received a call-up from Ancelotti, whose arrival has ushered in a new era for the Selecao. The absence sparked debate across Brazil: should the team move on, or should it wait for its all-time top scorer to reclaim his place? His answer has been consistent—he refuses to give up.

What did Neymar say?

That resolve crystallized during a public event in Sao Paulo alongside singer Thiaguinho. On stage, Neymar addressed Brazil not with caution, but conviction. He spoke about responsibility, belief, and the weight of wearing yellow again. Then came the line that changed the conversation. “We will do everything possible, even the impossible, to bring this World Cup back to Brazil.”

Moments later, Neymar turned directly toward the future—and toward Ancelotti. Just then, he unveiled the promise he had been holding back: “If we reach the final, I promise to score.” Nine words, no ambiguity, no safety net.

What is Ancelotti’s stance?

Ancelotti, for his part, has been clear-eyed. The Italian coach has welcomed Neymar’s ambition but refused to offer guarantees. “If Neymar deserves to be there, if he’s doing well, if he’s better than someone else, he will play in the World Cup. I don’t owe anything to anyone,” Ancelotti explained.

It is a message that aligns with his career philosophy: status does not select squads—form does. The final list will be decided in May, after the March international window provides clarity on fitness and rhythm. For Neymar, that sets a clear condition: talent alone will not be enough.

Shortly after the season ended, the Brazilian side confirmed Neymar had undergone knee surgery to address a medial meniscus issue. According to Globo Esporte, the experienced forward is expected to return to training within a month, placing him in a race against time—but not outside it. The goal is simple: return fit, return sharp, and return relevant.

Egypt have secured qualification to the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which means Mohamed Salah will remain unavailable for Liverpool for a longer period.

While Mohamed Salah has recently lost his unquestioned status at Liverpool, he remains one of the most important players in the squad. However, head coach Arne Slot cannot count on him at the moment because he is competing in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt.

Salah and his teammates opened the tournament on Monday with a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe, thanks to goals from Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush and Mo himself. That result was followed by another victory on Friday, a 1-0 win over South Africa, once again sealed by a goal from the Liverpool winger.

With those results, Egypt have officially clinched a spot in the round of 16, even though they still have one group-stage match remaining. They will face Angola on Monday knowing that nothing can take away either their qualification or their position at the top of Group B.

In the round of 16, Egypt will face one of the teams that advance as the best third-place finishers from Groups A, C, or D. While it is still too early to know for sure, based on the current standings the potential opponents are Mali, Tanzania, or Benin. That match is scheduled for Monday, January 5, at Adrar Stadium in Agadir.

How many more Liverpool matches will Salah miss?

Egypt’s strong run at the Africa Cup of Nations was expected, given that they are considered one of the favorites to win the tournament. Still, confirmation that they have safely navigated the group stage is unwelcome news for Liverpool, who will have to wait longer to get one of their biggest stars back.

So far, Salah’s absence has only affected one match for the Reds, last Saturday’s game against Tottenham. That impact will grow in the coming weeks, however. The winger will obviously miss this Saturday’s match against Wolverhampton, as well as the next two Premier League fixtures against Leeds United and Fulham.

If Egypt were to be eliminated in the round of 16 — an unlikely scenario — Salah could return to England in time for the following match, which would be against current league leaders Arsenal on Matchday 21.

But if Egypt continue their winning run and advance to the semifinals, Salah would not return to Liverpool before January 18. In that case, he would miss at least two additional matches: against Barnsley in the FA Cup and Burnley in the Premier League. He could potentially be available when the UEFA Champions League resumes on January 21, with Liverpool set to face Olympique Marseille.

Atletico Madrid have removed an honor previously given to Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Thibaut Courtois is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, a status he continues to prove week after week with Real Madrid. He was once a key figure for Atletico Madrid, but his legacy with the club has been clouded by later controversies, which have now led to a significant decision.

Courtois’ name had been displayed in the surroundings of Metropolitano Stadium alongside those of other Atletico Madrid legends, in recognition of his years as the club’s goalkeeper. However, the Spanish club announced a change in its criteria for granting such honors, and Thibaut was left out under the new guidelines.

Until now, simply having played 100 matches for Los Colchoneros was enough to receive that distinction. That requirement has now been eliminated, and the new commemorative plaques will instead be chosen by club members through a voting process. The final selection will come from a shortlist of 200 candidates chosen by the club. Courtois is not among them, meaning he will definitively lose his place of honor.

The voting system will consist of four categories of players, divided by different eras. In each category, members will select five players and assign them points ranging from five to one. Once voting is complete, the total points for each player will determine the final honorees.

Atletico Madrid stated that the criteria used to preselect players were based on “various factors such as qualitative merit, red-and-white values, recognition and legacy across generations, historic moments, and behavior toward our club and our supporters.” That final factor appears to be decisive in Courtois’ exclusion.

What happened between Courtois and Atletico Madrid?

In 2011, Thibaut Courtois joined Atletico Madrid from Belgian club Genk and quickly established himself as the team’s starting goalkeeper. Over three seasons, he made 154 appearances and delivered outstanding performances that helped the club win four trophies, including the 2011–12 UEFA Europa League and the 2013–14 La Liga title.

After leaving for Chelsea, the goalkeeper returned to Spain in 2018 to join Atletico Madrid’s city rivals, Real Madrid. That move angered Los Colchoneros supporters, who from that point adopted a hostile attitude toward Courtois. This included vandalism of his commemorative plaque, chants telling him to “die,” and banners that read “Thibu, rat.”

The final breaking point in Courtois’ relationship with Atletico Madrid came this year following the controversial penalty of Julian Alvarez that was ruled out for an alleged double touch. In response to complaints from Los Colchoneros, the goalkeeper said days later: “I’m tired of this victim mentality, of always crying about things like this.” That statement marked the point of no return and ultimately led to the decision to remove his honor.

Why can’t Griezmann be honored by Atletico Madrid?

The new system for awarding honors at Atletico Madrid not only eliminates the 100-match benchmark as a selection criterion, but also introduces another restriction: players who are currently active with the club cannot be included.

As a result, Antoine Griezmann is excluded from the vote despite being one of the most important players in the modern history of Atletico Madrid. Like other stars such as Koke and Jan Oblak, he will have to wait until he leaves the club or retires before becoming eligible.

Barcelona are searching for a defender and have reportedly shown interest in a World Cup winner with Lionel Messi’s Argentina national team.

For weeks, Barcelona have been at the center of transfer rumors. The Spanish club is looking for a top-level defender and has reportedly targeted a teammate of Lionel Messi with the Argentina national team who won the FIFA World Cup in Qatar 2022.

“FC Barcelona are scanning the market in search of an affordable center back with leadership qualities who can strengthen the squad in January… one of the names that fits that profile is Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi,” Mundo Deportivo reported on Friday.

Otamendi, who is approaching his 38th birthday, remains one of the most reliable defenders in Europe and has continued to shine with Benfica in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. He has made 28 appearances this season across domestic league play, the Portuguese Cup, the Portuguese Super Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.

The main obstacle surrounding a potential move for Otamendi is his contract situation. The defender is under contract with the Portuguese club until June 30, 2026, and “Benfica will not make things easy for him to leave during this winter window,” according to Mundo Deportivo.

“Jose Mourinho, the team’s head coach, has urgently requested the renewal of his captain to avoid a possible move to Barcelona in the winter transfer market,” the report added. “A scenario that would also have the approval of Rui Costa, president of Benfica.”

Otamendi focused on the 2026 World Cup

As is the case with many elite soccer stars, in the coming months Nicolas Otamendi will be focused on playing as much as possible and, above all, staying healthy in order to be in peak condition for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. There, Argentina will attempt to defend the title they won in Qatar in 2022, when Lionel Messi led them to the third trophy in the nation’s history.

For Otamendi, it would also represent his final major tournament with Argentina and his fourth World Cup overall, after appearing at South Africa 2010, Russia 2018, and Qatar 2022. He has already announced that he will not begin another World Cup cycle after 2026 and, like Messi, is expected to retire from international duty following the FIFA tournament.

Barcelona searching for a center back

Nicolas Otamendi is the latest name added to a long list of players who are rumored to be closely monitored by Barcelona ahead of the January transfer window. Another Argentine defender reportedly on the Catalan club’s radar is Marcos Senesi, who currently plays for Bournemouth and is also attracting interest from Atletico Madrid.

In addition, several Premier League defenders such as Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, Nathan Ake of Manchester City, and Murillo of Nottingham Forest have also been mentioned as possible targets for Barcelona.

Morocco play against Mali on Matchday 1 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage. Here’s everything you need to watch the matchup, including kickoff time and full broadcast information with TV and streaming options for viewers in the USA.

Match Overview

Group A delivers one of its most compelling showdowns as Morocco and Mali meet in a rivalry clash with early control of the standings on the line. Morocco arrives in command after surviving a physical opening test against Comoros, leaning on its depth and experience to secure all three points and separate from the pack.

Mali, meanwhile, comes in hungry after a tense draw with Zambia that underscored both its resilience and the urgency to capitalize on opportunities. While Morocco carries the favorite’s label, Mali views this matchup as a chance to flip the script and shake up the group picture—making this a must-watch contest that fans won’t want to miss.

Manchester United receive Newcastle in a Matchday 18 clash of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign. Below is everything you need to know about the fixture, including kickoff details and where to watch on TV and streaming platforms in the USA.

Match Overview

A rivalry matchup with plenty at stake headlines the weekend, as Manchester United look to rebound after a setback against Aston Villa that once again stalled their push toward a European spot. The Red Devils have repeatedly let chances slip when a move into the top tier of the table was within reach, but urgency is building as the season wears on.

Standing in their way are Newcastle, a side still searching for consistency after a slow opening stretch. Sitting on 23 points and six back of the European positions, the Magpies know a strong result could jump-start their campaign and narrow the gap in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested race.

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

Pep Guardiola had issued a warning to the Manchester City players, and Erling Haaland responded in an unexpected way.

Manchester City are at a crucial point in the season and cannot afford to relax. Sitting just two points behind Arsenal in the Premier League standings, every match matters, and head coach Pep Guardiola knows it. That is why he issued a warning to the squad, which sparked an unexpected reaction from Erling Haaland.

Last Saturday, after the 3-0 win over West Ham United, Guardiola revealed that the previous day the players had been weighed in order to keep track of their physical condition ahead of the Christmas break, which ran through December 25.

The coach warned them that when they returned to training, they would be weighed again to make sure they had not overindulged during their time off. “They come back on the 25th and I will be there controlling how many kilos come up. The moment they arrive after three days, I want to see how they come back,” Guardiola said, according to ESPN.

“They can eat, but I want to control them… I have to make a selection against Nottingham Forest. Imagine one player and now he’s perfect but he will arrive with three kilos more. He will stay in Manchester. He will not travel to Nottingham Forest,” Pep warned.

All good!! pic.twitter.com/M3XyPsptVX

— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) December 25, 2025

Haaland’s funny response

After the Christmas break, Manchester City players returned to training, and Erling Haaland shared a humorous post on his official X account joking about head coach Pep Guardiola’s warning.

“All good,” wrote the Norwegian striker alongside a photo showing his feet on a scale reading 94.4 kilos (approximately 208 pounds). Clearly, the Citizens superstar took care of himself to avoid excesses during the three days off and proudly showed the results.

Key match for Manchester City

After a season that began with some uncertainty and several disappointing results, Manchester City have rediscovered their best form in recent weeks, putting together a string of consecutive wins that have allowed them to close in on the top spots in the standings.

Across the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, the Citizens have won seven straight matches. Excluding the European clash against Real Madrid, they have recorded six consecutive league victories, helping them close the gap on Arsenal.

Now just two points separate them from the top of the table, meaning a win this Saturday against Nottingham Forest would make them, at least temporarily, the new Premier League leaders. They would then have to wait for the result between Arsenal and Brighton & Hove Albion to see if they can hold on to that spot.

The debate over who sits at the very top of world soccer has defined an entire generation. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, or Lamine Yamal—each name represents a different era, a different idea of greatness.

The debate over who sits at the very top of world soccer has defined an entire generation. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, or Lamine Yamal—each name represents a different era, a different idea of greatness. Now, as soccer enters a period of transition, a new verdict has arrived from one of the sport’s most respected voices. Marco van Basten, a two-time UEFA Champions League winner and three-time Ballon d’Or recipient, has made his choice for the best player in the world right now. And it is a decision that challenges long-held assumptions about age, experience, and hierarchy at the very top of the game.

Van Basten’s words have quickly rippled through the soccer world—not because they dismiss the achievements of the sport’s modern icons, but because they signal a shift that many believed was still years away.

Lamine Yamal has been officially crowned by Marco van Basten as the best player in the world right now. Speaking on Ziggo Sport’s Rondo, the Dutch legend left little room for interpretation. “Lamine Yamal, without a doubt, is the best player in the world right now,” van Basten said, delivering one of the most definitive endorsements imaginable.

Coming from a figure whose career set benchmarks for excellence, the statement carried exceptional weight. For the Dutchman, this is not about future potential or promise. It’s about current dominance, influence on matches, and the ability to decide games at the highest level—qualities he believes Yamal already possesses.

Declaring a teenager superior to established icons like Ronaldo, Messi, or Mbappe is not a casual opinion. It is a radical statement rooted in observation rather than reputation. Ronaldo and Messi defined soccer for nearly two decades, rewriting record books and reshaping what longevity means at the elite level.  Mbappe has been widely viewed as their natural successor, combining youth, speed, and decisive end product on the biggest stages. Yet van Basten’s assessment suggests that the conversation has already moved on. In his view, the game’s present—not its past or future—belongs to Yamal.

The 2025 breakthrough that changed everything

The year 2025 has been transformational. Yamal has gone from prodigious talent to central figure, establishing himself as a decisive force for club and country in the Spanish system. At just 18, he finished second in the Ballon d’Or race—an achievement that historically belongs to players at the peak of their careers.

He also led elite metrics that go beyond goals, including dribbling success and overall attacking influence, while becoming the most commercially visible player in world soccer through record jersey sales. These are not developmental statistics. They are indicators of dominance.

Van Basten’s warning: Greatness must be protected

Despite his glowing praise, van Basten also issued a clear note of caution. “All I hope for is that we get to enjoy watching him for as long as possible,” he added, emphasizing the importance of careful management. The Dutch legend understands the risks that come with early stardom. Injuries, overload, and expectation have shortened many promising careers before their true peak.

Yamal has already faced physical setbacks, missing matches this season due to pubalgia—an early reminder that even generational talent is vulnerable. For van Basten, protection is not about limiting ambition. It is about ensuring longevity. The goal is not just brilliance—but sustained brilliance.

As the soccer world looks ahead to 2026, questions continue to swirl around Lionel Messi and whether the sport’s most decorated modern icon will once again step onto the game’s biggest stage.

As the soccer world looks ahead to 2026, questions continue to swirl around Lionel Messi and whether the sport’s most decorated modern icon will once again step onto the game’s biggest stage. For Argentina, the debate is not only about age or minutes played, but about leadership, influence, and timing. Few voices carry more authority on that subject than Javier Zanetti, a former captain who understands both the weight of the shirt and the demands of a World Cup campaign.

Speaking with the calm certainty of someone who has lived through multiple tournament cycles, Zanetti offered a perspective that cuts through the noise. While doubts persist externally, his stance is clear: Messi remains capable of helping Argentina in a meaningful way at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And at the heart of his argument lies a carefully chosen nine-word message that reframes the entire conversation.

La Albiceleste enters the next World Cup cycle as the defending champion, having conquered the world in Qatar in 2022. That triumph, led by Messi, ended years of pressure and debate about his international legacy. Since then, the national team has continued to collect silverware, reinforcing its status as one of the strongest sides in global soccer.

Yet time moves quickly. Messi will be approaching 39 during the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He now plays his club soccer away from Europe, prompting inevitable questions about rhythm, intensity, and physical sustainability. Some have even suggested that Argentina should begin planning without him at the center of the project. Zanetti strongly disagrees.

Zanetti’s confidence in Messi’s leadership

In an interview with FourFourTwo, Zanetti dismissed the idea that Messi’s age diminishes his value to the national team. “I don’t agree with that,” he said when asked whether Messi should step aside as a leader. “Messi is fully capable of continuing as a leader. He’s intelligent, knows better than anyone how to interpret what the team needs, and is surrounded by great players in the national team.”

For Zanetti, leadership is not about running more kilometers than anyone else. It is about understanding moments, managing teammates, and raising standards in decisive situations. Those are qualities Messi still possesses in abundance, regardless of the league he plays in.

Zanetti went even further, making it clear that Messi’s presence alone elevates Argentina’s status. “I’m convinced that with him, Argentina will be a major contender again at the next World Cup,” he added. Midway through the discussion, He delivered the line that best encapsulates his philosophy on Messi’s future. Reflecting on where the forward stands in his career, he said: “The time has come for Messi to enjoy football.”

Those nine words shift the narrative entirely. Rather than framing 2026 as a burden or a final obligation, Zanetti sees it as an opportunity—a space where Messi can contribute without the suffocating pressure that defined earlier chapters of his international career. According to the former defender, enjoyment does not mean detachment. It means clarity. It means freedom. And paradoxically, it may be the very thing that allows Messi to remain decisive on the biggest stage.

Decision, desire, and timing

Zanetti was careful to stress that the final call belongs to Messi alone. “That has to be his decision,” he said. “But I think yes. There are only a few months to go, and I believe he also wants to represent his country again. I have no doubt it will happen.”

The former captain highlighted an important distinction: Messi no longer needs to prove anything. Every major trophy is already in his cabinet. What remains is the desire to compete—and Zanetti believes that desire is still there.

The World Cup itself, he suggested, will serve as a personal checkpoint. “The World Cup will surely be an important testing ground to see how he feels, and then he’ll decide, calmly, whether to continue.”

Wrexham square off against Sheffield United in a Matchday 23 clash of the 2025/26 EFL Championship season. Below is everything you need to know, including kickoff times and details on how to watch on TV and via streaming platforms.

Match Overview

A crowded race for sixth place adds extra urgency to this matchup, with Millwall currently occupying the spot on 25 points and a pack of contenders closing in. Wrexham remains seven points back but knows that every result matters as it looks to cut into the gap, making three points a priority in this outing.

Standing in the way is Sheffield United, a club with recent Premier League pedigree that sits on 26 points and has its own designs on breaking into the top six. For the Blades, a victory would strengthen their position in the standings and solidify their push, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash.

Egypt take on South Africa on Matchday 1 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage. Here’s everything you need to watch the matchup, including kickoff time and full broadcast information with TV and streaming options for viewers in the USA.

Match Overview

Group B takes center stage with a marquee showdown as Egypt and South Africa collide in what could ultimately decide first place, featuring two World Cup-bound powers that entered the Africa Cup of Nations with statement victories.

Egypt survived a tight opener with a 2–1 win over Zimbabwe, while South Africa delivered a composed and convincing 2–1 result against Angola, signaling they are ready for elite competition. Both teams are coming with momentum, so this matchup has all the makings of a defining moment in the tournament.

After his standout triumph in the 2025 MLS Cup with Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has now been named one of three finalists for an award he has never claimed in his career.

Lionel Messi has enjoyed a career filled with success, collecting titles, records, and individual accolades that have cemented his legacy in soccer history. However, after lifting the 2025 MLS Cup, the Inter Miami star is now on the verge of claiming an award he has never won before, having been named one of three finalists.

The 2025 calendar year was another standout chapter for Messi. He led Inter Miami on deep runs in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup, reached the Leagues Cup final, helped Argentina secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, and capped the year by winning the MLS Cup. Those achievements, combined with his record-setting numbers in MLS, have earned him a chance to add yet another individual honor to his résumé.

Lionel Messi has been selected as one of three finalists for the Rey de América (King of America) award, presented by Uruguayan outlet El País. The award recognizes the top South American player competing in the Americas, which meant that during Messi’s years with FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, he was not eligible, meaning that his move to MLS finally opened the door to contention.

Messi was also among the nominees last year, but his 2024 campaign did not place him among the top vote-getters. He finished fifth with 14 votes, behind winner Luiz Henrique and finalists Jefferson Savarino, Juan Fernando Quintero, and Thiago Almada. This time, however, Messi has reached the final stage of voting and will look to secure an award that has previously eluded him.

The other two candidates for the award

With more than 250 journalists participating in the voting process, Messi faces stiff competition. One finalist is Adrián “Maravilla” Martínez, who won the Recopa Sudamericana, reached the Copa Libertadores semifinals—finishing as the tournament’s top scorer—and guided Racing Club to the Argentine Torneo Clausura final.

The third contender is Uruguayan star Giorgian De Arrascaeta, who enjoyed the best year of his career in 2025. With Flamengo, he won the Copa Libertadores while being named the tournament’s MVP, captured the Brasileirão title as the league’s top assist provider, and helped Uruguay clinch qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

On December 31, El País will announce the winners of the Rey de América awards for men’s player, women’s player, and coach. First introduced in 1986, the honor carries significant historical weight, and Messi faces strong competition as he attempts to win a trophy missing from his otherwise exhaustive collection.

Other star winners of the award

Much like the Ballon d’Or once recognized only players competing in Europe, the Rey de América serves as a regional counterpart focused on South American football. Since its inception in 1986, the award has honored numerous world-class players who starred while playing on South American soil.

Former Argentina striker Carlos Tevez holds the record with three Rey de América awards, earned during his club stints in Argentina and Brazil. He is followed by Colombian legend Carlos Valderrama, Argentina’s Juan Sebastián Verón, and Messi’s former teammate at Barcelona and PSG, Neymar, each of whom won the award twice.

Other iconic winners include Cafu, Juan Román Riquelme, Romário, and Ronaldinho, while Julián Álvarez also claimed the honor during his time with River Plate. Now competing full-time in the Americas with Inter Miami, Messi has a rare opportunity to join that list and finally be crowned a king.

After Mohamed Salah completed his return to the team, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot delivered a final verdict on the controversial saga involving the Egyptian star.

Mohamed Salah became one of the central figures in the most heated storyline of the first half of the 2025-26 season after the Liverpool star publicly addressed his lack of playing time during the campaign. Now competing in the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt, Reds head coach Arne Slot has issued his final verdict on the situation involving the forward.

After being left as an unused substitute against Leeds United, Salah delivered a fiery response that included a blunt remark: “I don’t know why I’m sitting on the bench. It feels like the club is throwing me under the bus.” The Egyptian was then left out of the squad against Inter Milan before returning in the Premier League clash against Brighton, where he received a warm reception from fans, who applauded and gave him a standing ovation.

In an interview published on Wednesday, December 25, with Sky Sports, Slot was asked whether the situation with Salah had been put to rest, and his answer was direct: “Yeah, I think when I used him in the squad again, that was already a sign that we’ve moved on, and I brought him in the first substitution I made.“

Addressing the end of the saga, Slot also emphasized the need to shift focus toward the immediate future. “We’ve moved on, but now he’s at the AFCON, and he has important games over there. So it’s fair to him and to the Egypt team that we don’t talk about him as much here if it comes about Liverpool, and that’s also fair we have because we have to play a lot of games as well,” he added.

Currently competing at AFCON, Slot concluded by underlining the importance of resolving the issue before the tournament began: “I think it’s in the best interest of us, him, and Egypt that we’ve already shown with actions that we’ve moved on after his Leeds interview, and now he needs his full focus on Egypt, and we need our full focus over here.”

When could Salah return to play for Liverpool?

Mohamed Salah is one of several Premier League stars who have departed for international duty to compete in the Africa Cup of Nations. With league play continuing in his absence, questions remain about how many matches the Egyptian forward could miss before returning to Merseyside.

Egypt currently sit second in Group B with three points, tied with group leaders South Africa, while Zimbabwe and Angola remain at the bottom without a point. Salah’s side is viewed as a strong candidate to advance to the knockout rounds, which would extend his time away from Liverpool.

The AFCON round of 16 will take place between January 3 and 6, followed by the quarterfinals on January 9 and 10, the semifinals on January 14, and the third-place match and final on January 17 and 18, respectively. Depending on Egypt’s run, Salah could miss up to eight matches for Liverpool, potentially returning on January 21 for the Champions League fixture against Olympique Marseille, a significant absence for a team that has struggled for consistency this season.

After being stretchered off in the game against Arsenal in a concerning image, USMNT star Chris Richards delivered an optimistic update on his injury.

Chris Richards made headlines in the days leading up to the holidays after the Crystal Palace defender was stretchered off the field against Arsenal in a concerning scene. A few days after the incident, the USMNT standout delivered an optimistic injury update to fans.

On Tuesday, Arsenal hosted Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals in a heated matchup between the two London sides. With the score still 0-0 in the 69th minute, Gabriel Jesus beat Richards to a cross and headed the ball just wide of the goal.

Immediately after the play, Richards went down, raising alarm among teammates and staff. Cameras showed blood on his ankle, and the defender was unable to stand as he writhed in pain. Medical staff ultimately decided to stretcher Richards off the field, a moment that sparked significant concern for both Palace and the USMNT.

However, on Wednesday, December 25, Richards broke his silence and offered reassurance following the scare. “Thanks everybody for the messages, won’t be long til I’m back,” Richards wrote on his Instagram account.

The update came as a major relief for both Crystal Palace and Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT, with less than six months remaining until the start of the 2026 World Cup. Richards missed the 2022 tournament due to a leg injury, but now plays a key role for both club and country and is expected to be one of the team’s cornerstones.

Coach Glasner optimistic about Richards’ return

Crystal Palace not only lost Richards, who had started every Premier League match so far in the 2025-26 season, but were also eliminated from the Carabao Cup via a penalty shootout. As the club turns its focus back to league play, head coach Oliver Glasner remains optimistic about Richards’ recovery timeline.

Speaking after the match against Arsenal, the Austrian manager addressed the defender’s condition during his postgame press conference: “He got a knock on his foot, a stamp on his foot, and it had to be stitched. I don’t know how many stitches, but a few. The doctor told me it doesn’t look so bad. I’m always hopeful. We have to be hopeful.“

Palace will host Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday, December 28, before traveling to face Fulham on January 1, a match Richards could return for. “I don’t know if he will be OK for the Tottenham game, but I’m still hoping that he will be back against Fulham,” Glasner concluded.

A UEFA Champions League winner could be joining the Saudi Pro League, following in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo.

With the January transfer window approaching, rumors and speculation are already swirling. Now a forward who won the UEFA Champions League is being linked with a move to a Saudi Pro League club, potentially following the path of Cristiano Ronaldo.

According to journalist Nicolo Schira, cited by Mundo Deportivo, Al Ettifaq are interested in Mario Balotelli as reinforcement for their squad heading into the decisive stage of the 2025-26 season.

Al Ettifaq are currently in 7th place in the Saudi Pro League standings, with 15 points from 30 possible after four wins, three draws, and three losses. That places them 12 points behind the leaders, Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s club, who have won all nine games they have played so far.

Balotelli would add another name to the growing list of European superstars choosing to play in Saudi Arabia. The 35-year-old forward was long considered an elite player in Europe, with stints at clubs including AC Milan, Manchester City, and Liverpool. He also won the Champions League in the 2009-10 season with Inter Milan during his early professional years.

Where is Balotelli currently?

That glorious past at Europe’s top clubs is now far removed from Balotelli’s current situation. After a period in which his goals were highly sought after across Europe, the Italian forward has struggled in recent years to maintain a place at the elite level.

Since 2018, Mario has changed clubs almost every year, moving without success through Brescia, Monza, and Sion of Switzerland, among others. His most recent experience was with Genoa in Serie A, where he played just six matches in the 2024-25 season and did not score. Since then, he has been a free agent, going a full year without playing in an official match.

Balotelli has been a controversial figure

Mario Balotelli’s undeniable talent made him a top-level player for years, but his global reputation was also shaped by his eccentric behavior, which frequently made headlines for reasons unrelated to soccer.

During his time at Inter Milan, the forward was coached by Jose Mourinho, who led the team to the 2010 Champions League title. When asked about his relationship with Balotelli, the Portuguese coach described him as “unmanageable,” even though he used him in 40 matches that year.

“We had a good relationship, but our personalities were difficult to manage. We had clashes of ideas,” Balotelli reflected on Mourinho years later. “Once I argued with him at Appiano (Inter’s training center) before a game against Catania. I don’t remember the reason, but I got off the bus, got in the car, and went home.” Attitudes like that marked Balotelli’s career, often making it difficult for him to maintain a position among the world’s elite players.

With uncertainty surrounding the future of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool are reportedly interested in a UEFA Champions League winner with Paris Saint-Germain.

Liverpool have faced weeks of uncertainty. Disappointing results in both the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League have raised questions about coach Arne Slot, while putting Mohamed Salah in the spotlight due to his potential exit from the club. In this context, a player from Paris Saint-Germain has emerged as a potential target.

“Bradley Barcola is now emerging as a prime alternative for either the January window or next summer,” CaughtOffside recently reported. “The Reds’ recruitment team are understood to have intensified their monitoring of the French international, viewing him as a long-term solution capable of elevating their attacking options.”

Barcola is a highly talented winger with notable differences compared to Salah. The first, of course, is age. While the Egyptian star is approaching the twilight of his career at 33, the French player is a decade younger and still developing his skills.

Additionally, Barcola has a different playing profile from Salah. He is right-footed and typically operates on the left wing, whereas Mo is left-footed and plays on the right. This shift in profile would give Liverpool the chance to explore new attacking strategies. “Slot is known to be a strong admirer of Barcola’s profile,” added CaughtOffside.

Barcola’s performance at Paris Saint-Germain

Barcola’s youth makes him a long-term investment, as his talent is expected to evolve over the coming seasons while he gains more maturity and game intelligence. However, that does not mean the winger’s present form is insignificant.

He was an important part of Paris Saint-Germain last season, contributing three goals and four assists during their Champions League title run, in addition to 35 other goal contributions across all competitions.

This season, Barcola has continued to play a key role at PSG, particularly with injuries affecting Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue. So far, he has appeared in 21 matches, recording five goals and three assists across all tournaments.

Other Liverpool options

Liverpool’s initial target to strengthen their attack was Antoine Semenyo. However, the Bournemouth forward now appears closer to Manchester City, who could cover his roughly $88 million release clause, beating other Premier League giants like Manchester United and Chelsea to his signature.

In this scenario, Bradley Barcola has emerged as an appealing alternative for Liverpool, along with Karim Adeyemi. The German forward is reportedly seeking an exit from Borussia Dortmund, and the Reds could be a tempting destination, according to Anfield Index.

With a contract renewal for Tadeo Allende increasingly complicated, Inter Miami are reportedly interested in a former teammate of Lionel Messi who won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina.

Rebuilding the roster for the 2026 Major League Soccer season is proving to be a difficult task for Inter Miami. Tadeo Allende, one of the most decisive players during the club’s 2025 title run, may not return next year, and as a result, a FIFA World Cup champion alongside Lionel Messi with Argentina has now emerged as a potential alternative.

According to ESPN’s Raza Deportiva, Inter Miami are interested in signing Angel Correa. The 30-year-old forward has a similar playing profile to Allende and is already familiar with several players on the roster, which would be a significant advantage when projecting his integration into the team.

However, signing Correa will not be easy for the Herons. Tigres UANL of Mexico signed him this summer after more than a decade with Atletico Madrid, handing him a five-year contract that runs through June 30, 2030, with a reported salary of around $4 million per year.

With 15 goals in 27 matches in Liga MX, Angel Correa has become a key figure for the club, which only complicates any attempt to pry him away at this stage. Additionally, his high salary could pose a challenge for Inter Miami given Major League Soccer’s strict financial regulations.

Correa knows Messi well

Angel Correa fits perfectly into the type of player Inter Miami are targeting. Like Rodrigo De Paul, he is a star who accompanied Messi at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where Argentina claimed the title after defeating France on penalties in the final.

However, Correa’s role in that triumph was minimal. He was added to the 26-man squad at the last minute as a replacement for the injured Nicolas Gonzalez, and he played just four minutes during the semifinal victory over Croatia.

Overall, Angel Correa has made 28 appearances for the Argentina national team between 2015 and 2025, scoring three goals. He also holds the unusual distinction of being the player who has worn Argentina’s No. 10 shirt most often in the absence of Lionel Messi, doing so five times, all in World Cup qualifiers.

Inter Miami face stiff competition for Allende

Inter Miami’s reported interest in Angel Correa is directly tied to the difficult negotiations surrounding Tadeo Allende. The forward was crucial to the MLS title, especially because of his goals during the playoffs, and now that his loan has ended, he must return to Celta Vigo of Spain.

While the Herons remain in talks with the Spanish club in hopes of reaching an agreement for Allende, reports indicate that the financial gap between the sides remains significant. In that context, Diario Ole claims that River Plate of Argentina have submitted a $2.5 million offer for 50 percent of the player’s rights and are awaiting a response.

Additionally, another MLS club such as Austin FC has entered the race for Allende. While Austin may lack Inter Miami’s global profile, they can reportedly offer more favorable contract conditions due to Texas’ more flexible tax laws, according to Diario AS, which could prove decisive in negotiations.

While other top names like Luka Modric or Santiago Gimenez still command respect and headlines, Pulisic has carved out a level of consistency and influence that no one else in the squad has matched.

Christian Pulisic’s journey at Milan has quietly turned into one of the most compelling stories in European soccer. While other top names like Luka Modric or Santiago Gimenez still command respect and headlines, Pulisic has carved out a level of consistency and influence that no one else in the squad has matched. As 2025 draws to a close, a remarkable achievement is already locked in—one that says more about trust, timing, and transformation than raw hype ever could.

In a season shaped by tactical reinvention and shifting hierarchies, Pulisic has emerged as the most dependable attacking reference point for the club. What makes Pulisic’s rise more striking is that it has happened without noise, without constant praise, and often without full recognition beyond Italy.

From the opening months of the campaign, it became clear that Milan was evolving. The club’s tactical reset under Massimiliano Allegri demanded efficiency, positional intelligence, and players capable of deciding games with minimal touches. In that environment, the American star did not just adapt—he thrived.

Unlike previous seasons, where his game revolved around volume and work rate, this version of Pulisic became surgical. Fewer touches. Fewer dribbles. More decisive moments. The American’s ability to appear at exactly the right time has been one of the Rossoneri’s biggest competitive advantages across Serie A and domestic cup competition.

The numbers behind the influence

The statistical case for Pulisic’s importance is overwhelming. In domestic competition alone, he has delivered goals at a rate that places him among Europe’s most efficient forwards, despite not being a traditional striker. His goal-per-minute ratio rivals that of elite No.9s, while his shot conversion numbers underline a shift from creator-first winger to ruthless finisher.

What separates him from others in the squad is not just quantity, but timing. He has scored winners, openers, and momentum-shifting goals—the type that change matches, not just scorelines. The turning point came with Allegri’s subtle but crucial adjustments. Rather than demanding more defensive output or wider positioning, the coach did the opposite. He reduced Pulisic’s workload and gave him freedom to drift into central-left spaces.

This tactical trust changed everything. Operating closer to the goal, Pulisic began finishing moves rather than starting them. His heat maps show a player conserving energy and striking decisively—a hallmark of elite match-winners.

The milestone revealed

Midway through the season, the numbers quietly confirmed what performances already suggested. Christian Pulisic will finish 2025 as Milan’s leading goalscorer in the ongoing campaign, regardless of the final fixture before the New Year against Hellas Verona on December 28.

That achievement places him above every other name in the squad—including Modric, Gimenez, Rafael Leao, and every forward option available. With nine goals across league and cup competitions, no teammate can overtake him before the calendar turns. It is a milestone that speaks volumes. Not about reputation, but about responsibility.

Rank	Player	Goals
1.	Christian Pulisic	9
2.	Rafael Leao	6
3.	Alexis Saelemaekers	2
4.	Strahinja Pavlovic	2
5.	Davide Bartesaghi	2
6.	Luka Modric	1
7.	Samuele Ricci	1
8	Ruben Loftus-Cheek	1
9.	Youssouf Fofana	1
10.	Christopher Nkunku	1
11.	Zachary Athekame	1
12.	Adrien Rabiot	1
13.	Santiago Gimenez	1

The debate over soccer’s greatest qualities usually invites abstract answers, but when Gareth Bale was asked to construct his version of the perfect player, the result was anything but theoretical.

The debate over soccer’s greatest qualities usually invites abstract answers, but when Gareth Bale was asked to construct his version of the perfect player, the result was anything but theoretical. Drawing exclusively from one club’s galaxy of icons, Bale delivered a selection that immediately turned heads. Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, and Sergio Ramos all made the cut—yet there was no room at all for any of Bale’s former Tottenham teammates.

For a player who defined eras in both Spain and England, the choice felt deliberate. Bale’s answers were not about sentiment or nostalgia, but about what he believes wins at the very highest level. And unsurprisingly, every attribute pointed back to one club.

Just before breaking down the qualities themselves, the mystery dissolves. Bale’s “perfect footballer” is built entirely from Real Madrid players—past and present—with the Welshman even selecting himself for two of the most decisive traits.

When challenged to assemble a flawless player using seven core attributes, Bale stayed firmly rooted in the environment that shaped his greatest achievements. Speaking candidly in an interview, he answered each prompt without hesitation, leaning on the players he shared dressing rooms, trophies, and defining nights with.

The framework was simple: right foot, left foot, heart, goalscoring, defending, speed, and big-moment ability. The execution, however, revealed Bale’s soccer values—and his hierarchy of greatness.

Technique and balance: Feet that decide matches

For the right foot, the Welshman’s choice was immediate and unsurprising. “Right foot, probably Toni Kroos,” he said, referencing the German midfielder’s metronomic precision and control. Kroos symbolized reliability under pressure—an essential foundation for any elite player.

When asked about the left foot, Bale did not shy away from self-belief. “I’ll go myself,” he answered. Given his history of thunderous strikes and iconic final goals, few would argue. His left foot defined Champions League finals and domestic cup triumphs, making it one of the most feared weapons of its era.

Soccer perfection is not built on skill alone. Bale emphasized this by selecting Casemiro for “heart.” The Brazilian represented sacrifice, discipline, and relentless commitment—traits that allowed stars to flourish around him. The Brazilian’s inclusion highlighted Bale’s belief that mentality and selflessness are non-negotiable at the top. Trophies, in Bale’s view, are won as much by unseen work as by moments of brilliance.

Goals, defending, and the spine of champions

For goalscoring, Bale went with the most prolific name imaginable. “Finishing, Ronaldo,” he said plainly. No explanation was required. Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking output across competitions made him the definitive benchmark for turning chances into silverware.

Defensively, Bale chose leadership and resilience. “Defending, I’d go Sergio Ramos.” Ramos symbolized not just tackling or aerial dominance, but authority—a defender who thrived under pressure and delivered in decisive moments, even from the penalty spot.

The only current Real Madrid player to feature was selected for pace. “Speed, probably go Mbappe,” Bale said. In doing so, he acknowledged soccer’s evolution. Mbappe represents modern explosiveness, transitional danger, and the ability to change matches in seconds. His inclusion bridged generations—linking Bale’s era with the present and future of the club.

Why weren’t there any Tottenham players?

Perhaps the most striking element of Bale’s selection was what—and who—was missing. Despite his iconic Premier League years, no Tottenham player featured. The omission underscored a clear message: Bale’s soccer identity, peak, and legacy are inseparable from Real Madrid. This was not a slight against former teammates, but an acknowledgment of where Bale believes soccer’s highest standard truly lived for him.

While familiar icons like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe continue to dominate headlines, the assist charts have delivered a quiet shock: a new name has risen above them both, redefining what elite playmaking looks like this year.

The balance of power in modern soccer is often measured by goals, speed, and star power. Yet in 2025, one of the most revealing metrics tells a different story. Across all first divisions, domestic competitions, continental tournaments, and international soccer, creativity has become the true currency. While familiar icons like Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal continue to dominate headlines, the assist charts have delivered a quiet shock: a new name has risen above them both, redefining what elite playmaking looks like this year.

It is a reminder that soccer’s hierarchy is never static. Even in an era still shaped by Messi’s vision and Yamal’s explosiveness, 2025 has crowned a different kind of protagonist—one built on consistency, intelligence, and relentless chance creation rather than sheer celebrity.

According to Transfermarkt’s data, Michael Olise has recorded 30 assists in 66 matches across all competitions and national-team appearances in 2025, the highest total of any player in world soccer.

That single statistic carries enormous weight. It places Olise ahead of some of the most iconic creators the sport has ever seen and does so without the marketing noise or historical baggage that often accompanies such rankings. This is not a brief purple patch or a competition-specific spike. It is sustained output across an entire calendar year, achieved through regular selection, tactical trust, and repeated end-product.

In an age where goals dominate conversations, the Frenchman’s numbers are a reminder that the players who decide matches before the final touch are often just as valuable as those who apply it.

Messi still sets the standard—but no longer leads

Close behind the new leader sits Lionel Messi, who has produced 29 assists in just 54 matches. On a per-game basis, the Argentine remains extraordinary, continuing to bend matches to his will with timing, vision, and anticipation that few players in history have ever matched.

What makes Messi’s position remarkable is not that he finished second—it is that he is still competing at the very top of global creative metrics at this stage of his career. Even now, his influence remains central to his club’s attacking identity, dictating tempo and unlocking defenses with minimal touches.

Yet for the first time in years, the Argentine is not the benchmark everyone else is chasing. In 2025, he is the one being edged out, not because of decline, but because another player has matched consistency with availability across more games.

Generational shift takes shape

Perhaps the most symbolic name near the summit is Lamine Yamal, who has already amassed 27 assists in 60 matches. At just 18, his inclusion among the world’s elite creators is one of the clearest indicators that soccer is entering a new era.

Yamal’s numbers are not built on sporadic brilliance or highlight-reel dribbles alone. They reflect responsibility. He is trusted to make decisions in decisive zones, to supply final balls, and to influence matches consistently. Being placed statistically alongside Messi rather than far below him is not symbolism—it is evidence.

With Fikayo Tomori re-established at the heart of the defence and England now under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, the defender has laid out a clear vision for how he plans to force his way back into international contention.

The road to a FIFA World Cup is rarely straightforward, especially for defenders trying to break back into one of international soccer’s deepest talent pools. At club level, consistency can restore confidence and rhythm, but international recognition often lags behind form. That reality frames the current ambition of Christian Pulisic’s Milan teammate, who believes that the coming months may finally align club success with national-team opportunity.

As Milan pushes forward in a revitalized season, one of its most determined figures has quietly set his sights on 2026. With Fikayo Tomori re-established at the heart of the defence and England now under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, the defender has laid out a clear vision for how he plans to force his way back into international contention. The specifics of that plan, however, are only revealed once you look deeper into his resurgence.

Approaching his fifth anniversary at Milan, Tomori has emerged from a difficult spell to reclaim his status as a regular starter. The arrival of Massimiliano Allegri has proven decisive. Under the Italian coach, the Rossoneri have regained defensive structure and tactical clarity, and Tomori has been one of the main beneficiaries.

After seasons disrupted by inconsistency and competition, the England centre-back is once again a fixed presence in Serie A. Milan has lost only one league match, sits firmly in the title race, and boasts a defensive solidity that was missing last year. For the 28-year-old, the timing could not be better.

The World Cup dream still alive

Speaking to BBC Sport, Tomori made it clear that his international ambition remains undiminished. “Do I want to go to the World Cup? Of course,” he said. “I want it for myself. I know that winning the league will help.” That eight-word statement captures his mindset perfectly. The player understands that individual performances matter, but collective success often tips the balance when national-team selections are made.

He also confirmed regular contact with England’s head coach. “I spoke with Tuchel after the last international break in November. We’ve spoken several times, and the message has been to keep doing what I’m doing,” he explained.

Competition and confidence

England’s centre-back pool remains one of the most competitive in Europe, with established names and emerging profiles fighting for limited places. Tomori does not shy away from that reality. He openly acknowledges the challenge posed by players such as John Stones, Marc Guehi, Dan Burn, and Ezri Konsa.

Yet encouragement has come from an important signal: Tuchel’s willingness to look beyond domestic leagues. “I know he’s watching because he called up Ruben Loftus-Cheek,” Tomori noted. “That gives me confidence that I can make it.”

For Tomori, that call-up proved England’s coaching staff are closely monitoring Milan. Data, video analysis, and live scouting all form part of the evaluation process. “He came to Milan last season and I know he regularly receives our data and watches our videos,” Tomori added.

With the March international break set to be the final selection window before Tuchel names his World Cup squad, the timeline is tight. England already knows its group-stage opponents, and defensive cohesion will be crucial. Tomori understands the stakes. “The World Cup is still a dream. I’m working for it every day,” he concluded.

Marcus Rashford has impressed with his performance in Barcelona, consistently demonstrating solid form. Despite this, his future with the team has been widely debated. However, coach Hansi Flick has already made a clear decision regarding the Englishman for the 2026-27 season.

After years of inconsistency at Manchester United, Marcus Rashford has finally found stability at Barcelona, a level he hadn’t displayed in quite some time. Despite his progress, Raphinha continues to start as the left winger, sparking debate over the Englishman’s continuity given his high salary and transfer value. However, coach Hansi Flick has reportedly made a decision about the 28-year-old ahead of the 2026–27 season.

According to Matteo Moretto, Hansi Flick has made it clear to Barcelona that keeping Marcus Rashford beyond his loan spell is a top priority, valuing his quick adaptation and collective work. As a result, the Blaugranas are reportedly already working with Manchester United to reach an agreement for his transfer, as they aim to reduce the €35 million (approximately $40.5 million) purchase option.

Far from prioritizing a return to Manchester United, Marcus Rashford has sent a clear message to the Red Devils by putting Barcelona first. In addition, the Englishman is reportedly willing to make an effort and lower his salary demands in order to remain with the Spanish club. At 28 years old, Rashford is looking to rediscover his best version and compete for major titles, such as the UEFA Champions League.

Since arriving in Barcelona, Marcus has earned his place as a regular option on the left wing within the rotation. While Raphinha remains the established starter, Rashford has managed to score seven goals and provide 11 assists, making it clear he has the quality to stay with the team for the long term. Despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Rashford has chosen to set that possibility aside and focus exclusively on the Culers.

Marcus Rashford could offer a dynamic alternative for Barcelona

One of the biggest doubts surrounding the loan signing of Marcus Rashford is his role in the lineup. With Raphinha, Fermín López, and Lamine Yamal already established in the starting XI, the Englishman would be pushed into an important role off the bench—something it is unclear whether he would fully accept. That said, the 28-year-old star can offer Hansi Flick’s Barcelona plenty of tactical alternatives, giving the team a better chance to win everything.

His pace, vision, and goal-scoring ability, Rashford could give Hansi Flick multiple options to adjust to different opponents. In the event of injury or a dip in form from any of the usual starters, Marcus could step in and deliver an immediate impact, while also changing games from the bench. With the growing number of matches each season, having an experienced player like the Englishman provides security in the rotation, helping protect the squad’s fitness.

Rashford’s experience wins out over youth at Barcelona

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona appeared to favor the arrival of a young winger to provide cover for Raphinha, following the model of Roony Bardghji’s signing. In that context, names such as Malick Fofana and Antonio Nusa emerged as strong alternatives. However, Hansi Flick’s firm opinion changed the club’s plans, shifting its focus toward securing the continuity of the English winger.

Far from being a bad decision, it is a decision that seeks to minimize risk. Having shone since his arrival at the team, Rashford’s continuity is quite logical, as he can bring quality and consistency. This is quite the opposite of the arrival of Nusa or Fofana, as such young players could demand regular starting spots and have not demonstrated consistent talent at the elite level, something that the Englishman has already achieved.

Mohamed Salah has rejoined Liverpool's lineup, but it seems his tenure with the club is nearing its conclusion. Meanwhile, a standout player from the Bundesliga has surfaced as a potential replacement for the Egyptian star in January 2026.

Mohamed Salah‘s tenure at Liverpool seems to be approaching its conclusion, with his departure looking inevitable at some point during the current season. Meanwhile, Alexander Isak’s injury has hastened the Reds’ plans to pursue attacking reinforcements. Among the various options that have arisen, one standout player from the Bundesliga has emerged as a potential addition for January 2026.

With the complications surrounding the arrival of Antoine Semenyo, who is nearing a move to Manchester City, Liverpool seem to have shifted their focus to another talent. According to Anfield Index, Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi has become one of the Liverpool’s primary targets ahead of January 2026. Although the 23-year-old star is under contract until 2027, reports suggest he could leave Germany for £20 million (approximately $27 million).

Unlike the 2024-25 season, Adeyemi has struggled to shine at Borussia Dortmund this year. He has scored only six goals and recorded three assists in 22 games, a noticeable drop from his 12 goals and 11 assists last season. As a result, he has become a rotation player and lost his starting spot. Moreover, his relationship with coach Nico Kovac has suffered as well, following a negative reaction when he was substituted in the latest game.

Not only is Karim Adeyemi’s limited role pushing him toward an exit, but an unusual personal situation is also a factor. According to BILD, the 23-year-old star wants to leave Borussia Dortmund because his girlfriend wishes to live in a major European city. In this context, Liverpool’s emergence could make his departure from Germany a reality, as it would also represent a significant step forward in his professional career with a move to the Premier League.

Not only Adeyemi: Liverpool also reportedly eye two attacking options

Salah’s stay until the end of the season remains a real possibility, but the potential arrival of Karim Adeyemi aligns with Liverpool’s plans. Interest from clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, and FC Barcelona have prompted the Reds to keep their options open. They are also considering two other alternatives to strengthen the attack, making the January 2026 transfer window a potentially promising one.

According to Ekrem Konur of CaughtOffSide, Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain is generating significant excitement at Liverpool. The 23-year-old, under contract until 2028, could become part of a blockbuster transfer. He joined PSG in 2023 for €45 million, and the club is eager to extend his deal. Consequently, securing his transfer in January 2026 could prove challenging for the Reds, but Barcola remains a viable option.

Not only Adeyemi and Barcola, but Harvey Elliott has also emerged as a strong, cost-free alternative. Despite being on loan at Aston Villa, Liverpool retain the player’s sporting rights and could bring him back, as he is not enjoying a prominent role. While Arne Slot has publicly stated that the player will remain with the Villans, a potential return could prove to be a smart move, given that it would come at no cost.

Christian Pulisic is seeing AC Milan strengthen their squad, looking to further shape the roster after a shaky start. However, the USMNT star could lose a key teammate as Davide Bartesaghi is reportedly being closely monitored by two Premier League sides.

Even though Christian Pulisic has been able to shine offensively, AC Milan continue to have serious problems with their roster. The arrival of Niclas Füllkrug aims to solve certain issues in the offense. However, the defensive backline remains a growing problem due to a lack of depth, and this could worsen because Davide Bartesaghi is closely followed by two Premier League teams, making his departure not entirely out of the question.

According to Caughtoffside’s Ekrem Konur, Arsenal are closely following Davide Bartesaghi, who is considered one of the most promising stars at AC Milan. Alongside the Gunners, Manchester City are also reportedly tracking the Italian rising star as a potential asset for the 2026-27 season. Although a sale in January 2026 is off the table, the Rossoneri value the 19-year-old at around €45 million, making his departure a possibility.

Bartesaghi has become a starter under Massimiliano Allegri despite Pervis Estupiñan’s arrival. In the 2025-26 season, the Italian rising star has already played 13 games, scoring two goals and delivering an assist. Coupled with his offensive skills, he has shone on the defensive side, emerging as a complete left wing-back at just 19 years old.

While the Rossoneri have reportedly set a €45 million price tag on Davide, his departure might not be easy. His youth and sense of belonging to the team make him a player around whom the future can be built. Moreover, he is already considered a regular starter under coach Massimiliano Allegri, having led the team with a brace in the latest Serie A game against Sassuolo as a key asset for AC Milan future project.

Bartesaghi’s departure would undermine AC Milan’s 2026-27 objective

Since the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, AC Milan have set a clear objective: To become one of the most dominant teams in Italy. By investing in youth, they aim to consolidate a long-term project that enhances the squad’s competitiveness. Consequently, selling Davide Bartesaghi would contradict this primary goal, as he is expected to become a future captain and stands out as one of the team’s most promising talents.

In line with this vision, the Rossoneri are striving to build a more robust defense, a goal that Bartesaghi’s potential departure would undermine. They are targeting defensive talents such as Federico Gatti, Axel Disasi, and Joe Gomez to ensure greater rotation and solidity. Davide, in conjunction with Alexis Saelemaekers, could be pivotal in achieving the club’s goal of establishing exemplary defensive stability.

As the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins to narrow, Marc-Andre ter Stegen now finds himself at the center of a tense and defining crossroads—caught between recovery, competition, and a message from the very top of German soccer that leaves little room for ambiguity.

Barcelona’s long-serving captain has spent most of his international career waiting: Waiting for trust, waiting for an opportunity, waiting for the moment when his club’s stature would finally translate into unquestioned status with his country. As the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins to narrow, Marc-Andre ter Stegen now finds himself at the center of a tense and defining crossroads—caught between recovery, competition, and a message from the very top of German soccer that leaves little room for ambiguity.

For years, Ter Stegen has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in Europe at Barcelona, yet his international story with Germany has been shaped by patience rather than prominence. With a new World Cup cycle underway and Manuel Neuer no longer blocking the path, this was supposed to be his tournament. Instead, the conditions attached to that dream have now been made crystal clear.

For over a decade, the German shot-stopper lived in the shadow of a generational icon. No matter how strong his performances in Spain, his role with the DFB-Team rarely changed: reliable deputy, elite alternative, but never the uncontested No.1. The retirement of Neuer was meant to close that chapter.

The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represented something deeply symbolic—the first major tournament in which Ter Stegen would finally stand at the front of the line. But soccer timing can be cruel. A serious back injury sidelined him for months, and by the time he returned, circumstances at Barcelona had shifted dramatically.

The arrival of a new goalkeeper in strong form at club level has complicated his path back into the starting XI, raising uncomfortable questions just as the international stakes increase.

Germany reveals its stance

Those questions were addressed directly this week by Rudi Voller, the sporting director of the German national team. Speaking in an interview with Kicker, Voller removed any ambiguity around Germany’s stance. “It doesn’t matter if he’s still in Barcelona or somewhere else; in the end, he has to play,” Voller said.

“And then we will all be happy for him if, after many years as a world-class goalkeeper in the shadow of Manuel Neuer, he has the opportunity to be between the posts at a World Cup.” That seven-word message is as direct as international soccer gets. Reputation alone will not secure a World Cup starting role. Match fitness and regular minutes are non-negotiable.

Will Ter Stegen make the final cut?

Voller was careful to stress that Ter Stegen is not being frozen out. On the contrary, communication between the player and the federation has been constant. “Marc has been in very close contact with our goalkeeper coach Andreas Kronenberg for months,” he confirmed, underlining that Germany remains invested in his situation.

Still, uncertainty reigns. Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has not yet locked in his World Cup hierarchy. That openness cuts both ways. While it keeps the 33-year-old in the conversation, it also opens the door to rivals.

With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo still setting global benchmarks, Semenyo was asked to choose between the two.

The greatest individual rivalry in modern soccer refuses to fade, even as both icons approach the twilight of their careers. Wherever elite players go, the same question follows—and this time, it landed at the feet of Antoine Semenyo, one of the Premier League’s most in-demand attackers. With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo still setting global benchmarks, Semenyo was asked to choose between the two. His answer, delivered calmly amid transfer chaos, has rippled far beyond a casual interview—especially among supporters of one particular English giant.

At a time when speculation around his future is intensifying, the Bournemouth winger has found himself at the intersection of soccer’s biggest debate and the Premier League’s most competitive transfer race.

Semenyo’s name has rarely been out of the headlines this season. The 25-year-old has been one of the standout performers for Bournemouth, combining power, pace, and decisiveness in the final third. With eight league goals and three assists in 16 appearances, his output places him among the most effective attackers outside the traditional “big six.”

That form has not gone unnoticed. Interest has arrived from Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea, while Tottenham has already been turned away. A reported $88 million release clause hangs over the situation, ensuring that every word Semenyo utters is now dissected for hidden meaning.

It was in this context—between training sessions and transfer noise—that the Ghana international sat down with the AwayDays YouTube channel and faced soccer’s most unavoidable question.

What did Semenyo say?

The Messi-Ronaldo debate has defined an era. Between them, they hold 13 Ballon d’Or awards, shattered scoring records across continents, and reshaped expectations of longevity at the elite level. Even as one now plays in MLS and the other dominates headlines in the Saudi Pro League, their influence remains absolute.

When Semenyo was asked to pick a side, there was no attempt to dodge or neutralize the question. “Messi or Ronaldo? Messi by a hundred percent,” he said. “I never downplay what Ronaldo has achieved—what he’s done is unbelievable, and what both of them deliver together is something incredible. But for me personally, I’m a Messi fan.” The clarity of the response stood out. There was admiration for both legends, but no hesitation in preference.

Why Manchester City fans are smiling

Semenyo’s words resonated instantly with supporters across England—but nowhere more loudly than among Manchester City fans. The reasons are layered. First, the Citizens leading the race for the winger, positioning themselves as the most likely destination, should the Cherries eventually cash in.

Second, while Messi has long been admired—even briefly linked in fantasy scenarios to City during Pep Guardiola’s reign—Ronaldo’s Premier League legacy is inseparable from Manchester United. For City supporters, Semenyo’s stance feels less like a harmless opinion and more like a subtle cultural alignment. In a rivalry-obsessed city, those details matter.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Lionel Messi's Argentina was targeted by a former France international with a sharp message: "I only feel hatred toward them."

France and Argentina delivered one of the most memorable finals in soccer history at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a match that helped spark a lasting rivalry between the two nations. Now, with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, a former France international has delivered a blunt message toward Lionel Messi’s team: “I only feel hatred toward them.“

Les Bleus have emerged as one of the world’s dominant national teams in recent years, entering the 2022 tournament with a chance to win back-to-back World Cups following their 2018 triumph. However, Messi’s Argentina stood in their way, lifting the trophy in a dramatic final that ended in massive celebrations, scenes that former France striker Djibril Cissé did not appreciate.

During a live broadcast on L’Équipe’s official YouTube channel, which revisited the third anniversary of the 2022 World Cup final on December 18, Cissé watched Argentina’s celebrations and did not hide his feelings on camera: “I only feel hatred toward them.“

The former striker, who represented France at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, both ending in first-round exits, explained that the images following Argentina’s victory triggered a strong reaction. “After seeing those images, I was even angry. I feel a lot of hatred toward them. Clearly, today they are our main enemy,” he stated.

Cissé also referenced the controversy surrounding Argentina’s celebration of the 2024 Copa América, in which Enzo Fernández was involved in a chant that drew criticism for its content. “I don’t understand how his teammates forgave him,” Cissé said, questioning the Chelsea midfielder’s situation.

Now framing Argentina as France’s primary rival, Cissé suggested a strong sense of revenge, expressing desires such as “winning the third star in Messi’s last World Cup match” and referencing “two or three scores to settle with Argentina.” With less than six months until the tournament begins, a potential final between La Albiceleste and Les Bleus is already being discussed, with one former French international helping fuel the narrative.

When could Argentina and France meet at the 2026 World Cup?

Drawn from Pot 1 in Groups I and J respectively and sitting near the top of the FIFA rankings, France and Argentina are considered two of the leading contenders to win the 2026 World Cup. As Cissé suggested, if both teams advance deep into the tournament, a matchup between them is possible.

If both Argentina and France win their respective groups, they would be placed on opposite sides of the knockout bracket, meaning they could only meet in a potential final. A similar scenario, though less likely, would occur if both teams finish as runners-up in their groups.

Without accounting for a third-place finish, the two sides could still meet before the final at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey. That scenario would occur if one team wins its group while the other advances as a runner-up, setting up a possible semifinal clash between France and Argentina.

After his loan deal at Inter Miami expired, Lionel Messi's former teammate Baltasar Rodriguez shed some light on his future.

Baltasar Rodriguez quickly emerged as one of Lionel Messi’s key teammates during Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Cup run, playing a fundamental role in midfield late in the season. Now back in Argentina, the 22-year-old has offered clarity on his future after his loan spell with Inter Miami came to an end.

Argentine club Racing Club loaned Rodriguez to Inter Miami in March through the end of the 2025 season, but injuries sidelined the midfielder during his first months in MLS. As the season progressed, including the MLS playoffs, Rodriguez became a regular starter in Messi’s lineup, and with his loan expiring, questions naturally surfaced about his next move.

In an interview with Diario Olé, Rodriguez explained how Racing Club informed him of his return: “They had already asked me what was going to happen, and up until then I didn’t know whether Inter was going to buy me. Yesterday (Tuesday), when I woke up, I had messages from Federico Costas (Gustavo’s son and the fitness coach) telling me I had to report to the squad on January 3.“

With the transfer window now open, the midfielder addressed how he views the next step in his career. “I feel good because I also want another shot at Racing, and I’m happy to know they’re counting on me,” he stated. “I want to be important again like I was in 2023. I want to show who I really am; I know that in 2024 I wasn’t at the level I’m capable of reaching,” Rodriguez added.

According to DSports Radio, Inter Miami are still working on a permanent deal for Baltasar Rodriguez, whose loan included an obligation to buy that was not triggered. To complete the transfer, the Herons would now need to pay a reported $5 million fee, similar to the original mandatory purchase option.

Rodriguez appeared in 22 matches for Inter Miami, scoring three goals and adding three assists. While his raw numbers were modest, his role as a left-sided midfielder behind Mateo Silvetti late in the season elevated his importance over Telasco Segovia, and at just 22 years old, Rodriguez is also viewed as an MLS-proven asset with long-term upside.

Rodriguez and a year he’ll never forget alongside Messi

Head coach Javier Mascherano played a significant role in bringing Rodriguez to Miami, having previously coached him with Argentina’s U-20 national team. Surrounded by stars, Lionel Messi became something of a mentor to the young midfielder, who admitted he learned valuable lessons about the game during their time together.

When asked what Messi taught him, Rodriguez spoke glowingly of the experience: “A lot of things. He taught me a lot and also yelled at me so I’d understand the game. He taught me when to do things and when not to. I always played at the same tempo, and he told me I needed to stay calm, that my advantage was my power. I worked on that and learned how to use it to my advantage.“

The midfielder also revealed how often he sought Messi’s guidance on positioning. “I asked him a lot about my position and where I could make a difference. ‘You position yourself here and you’ll make the difference,’ he’d tell me,” Rodriguez said, before highlighting Messi’s lighter side. “And when it comes to joking around, that little guy is unbelievable—he jokes around a lot. And when Rodrigo (De Paul) arrived, it took things to another level. The two of them together are something else,” he concluded.

Lionel Messi has topped a prestigious ranking of the 21st century, leaving sports legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, and LeBron James behind.

Lionel Messi has become the face of MLS in recent years, but long before his move to the United States, his performances, trophies, and records had already placed him among the greatest athletes in sports history. As 2025 approaches its end, the Argentine icon has been ranked No. 1 ahead of stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, and LeBron James in a prestigious 21st-century list.

As in every sport, a select few athletes separate themselves from the rest, consistently raising the bar through dominance and longevity. Beyond statistics and championships, legacy and impact also play a defining role, determining how an athlete reshaped their sport and secured a permanent place in history.

With the first quarter of the century nearing its conclusion, Canadian outlet Le Journal de Québec released its ranking of the top 25 athletes of the 21st century. The list spans multiple sports, both team and individual, and places Lionel Messi at the very top.

The outlet described Messi as the defining player of his generation and did not shy away from labeling him the greatest of all time. His résumé includes a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies, and countless goal-scoring records with both FC Barcelona and Argentina, capped by winning the 2022 World Cup.

The rest of the ranking features elite athletes from across the sports world. Seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady finished second, while former swimmer Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history with 28 medals, including 23 gold, rounded out the top three.

Cristiano Ronaldo sitting far from Messi

Excelling individually in a sport played over 90 minutes with 21 other players is no easy feat, yet both Messi and Ronaldo managed to do so consistently throughout their careers. While the Portuguese star has thrived at every club he’s represented, he finished well behind Messi in this particular ranking.

Le Journal de Québec placed Cristiano Ronaldo 10th overall, citing his five Ballon d’Or awards and five Champions League titles. His record of scoring over 100 goals for four different clubs, along with his status as the all-time leading scorer in men’s soccer, also factored into his placement.

Still, the outlet noted that Ronaldo did not reach Messi’s level in terms of overall impact. He was ranked behind Serena Williams, Usain Bolt, LeBron James, Novak Djokovic, Simone Biles, and Kobe Bryant, among others.

Top 25 athletes of the 21st century

As released by Le Journal de Québec, these are the 25 greatest athletes of the first quarter of the 21st century:

1. Lionel Messi — Soccer
2. Tom Brady — Football
3. Michael Phelps — Swimming
4. Serena Williams — Tennis
5. Usain Bolt — Track and field
6. LeBron James — Basketball
7. Novak Djokovic — Tennis
8. Simone Biles — Gymnastics
9. Kobe Bryant — Basketball
10. Cristiano Ronaldo — Soccer
11. Tiger Woods — Golf
12. Roger Federer —Tennis
13. Rafael Nadal — Tennis
14. Stephen Curry — Basketball
15. Lewis Hamilton — Formula 1
16. Katie Ledecky — Swimming
17. Floyd Mayweather — Boxing
18. Sidney Crosby — Hockey
19. Mikaël Kingsbury — Freestyle skiing
20. Michael Schumacher — Formula 1
21. Shohei Ohtani — Baseball
22. Mikaela Shiffrin — Alpine skiing
23. Patrick Mahomes — Football
24. Alexander Ovechkin — Hockey
25. Marta — Soccer

While many players see their worth collapse as birthdays pile up, one of soccer’s most enduring icons is proving that time alone does not dictate relevance.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have defined a generation, reshaped soccer’s global economy, and carried their rivalry across leagues, continents, and eras. Now, deep into the final chapters of their careers, that rivalry has quietly resurfaced in a place few expected: market value. While many players see their worth collapse as birthdays pile up, one of soccer’s most enduring icons is proving that time alone does not dictate relevance.

That is the backdrop to a fascinating new discussion around Cristiano Ronaldo, whose standing in the Saudi Pro League has remained remarkably stable. With unfinished business at club level and one final international summit looming, the numbers tell a story that goes beyond age. And somewhere on another continent, Lionel Messi still casts a familiar shadow.

There is no escaping reality: The Portuguese superstar is approaching the twilight of his playing days. Yet nothing about his mindset suggests a farewell tour. Instead, his focus remains sharply fixed on elite targets, most notably the pursuit of 1,000 career goals and one last World Cup run in 2026.

At Al-Nassr, Ronaldo continues to operate as the centerpiece of the project rather than a ceremonial figure. His performances, professionalism, and physical output underline a player determined to compete until the very end. As he approaches his 41st birthday, his relevance is no longer measured purely in minutes played but in influence, standards, and global presence. That relevance is reflected in an area where age usually punishes even legends: valuation.

Market stability in a league built on star power

The latest update from Transfermarkt offered an intriguing snapshot of how soccer’s elite are being priced across the globe. In the Saudi Pro League — a competition increasingly defined by marquee names and commercial appeal — Ronaldo’s market value did not decline. Instead, it held firm.

For a player at this stage of his career, stability itself is the statement. Ronaldo may no longer rank among the league’s most expensive assets, but his valuation reflects sustained performance, global marketability, and enduring sporting relevance rather than nostalgia. In a league where younger stars and prime-age signings dominate the upper tiers, that consistency stands out. It suggests that Ronaldo’s presence continues to justify investment — not as a legacy act, but as an active competitor.

How does it compare to Lionel Messi?

This is where the story becomes even more compelling. Because while Ronaldo’s value has held steady in Saudi Arabia, his greatest rival has followed a slightly different curve across the Atlantic. At Inter Miami, Lionel Messi remains the defining figure of MLS. His impact on attendance, sponsorship, and league visibility is undeniable. Yet the latest valuation update shows a subtle shift — one that finally allows a direct comparison to re-emerge.

Transfermarkt currently values Lionel Messi at approximately $17 million, while Cristiano Ronaldo is valued at $14 million — a gap of just $3 million. That margin is remarkably slim given their ages, leagues, and contexts. And it underscores a striking reality: even at the end of their careers, neither has pulled decisively clear of the other.

As Spain begins to narrow their options for the next FIFA World Cup, a familiar and trusted figure is returning to the spotlight—placing unexpected pressure on a younger star at club level.

Cristiano Ronaldo has shared dressing rooms with many elite defenders over the course of his career, from Champions League winners in Madrid to ambitious projects abroad. One of those former teammates is now quietly reshaping the landscape of international soccer ahead of 2026. As Spain begins to narrow their options for the next FIFA World Cup, a familiar and trusted figure is returning to the spotlight—placing unexpected pressure on a younger star at club level. The consequence could be severe: a World Cup dream hanging in the balance.

With Ronaldo having previously lined up alongside Aymeric Laporte at Al-Nassr, the defender’s resurgence is now being felt far beyond club soccer. For Spain, continuity and trust matter—and that reality may come at the expense of youth.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente faces one of the most delicate balancing acts of his tenure. With the upcoming tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada approaching, La Roja is largely building on the foundations of their successful Euro 2024 campaign. Stability has been rewarded—but competition is intensifying.

Midfield places are already under threat, with emerging form from Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino placing pressure on established names. Even former captain Alvaro Morata faces an uphill battle to secure his ticket. Yet perhaps the most volatile area of all is central defence, where experience, reliability, and fitness are being weighed against youth and potential.

Rapid rise followed by uncertainty

Few players broke into the Spain setup as quickly as Dean Huijsen. First called up in March, the young defender made an immediate impression in the Nations League quarter-finals and quickly became a regular feature whenever fit. Between March and October, he did not miss a single minute for the national side.

That momentum, however, has stalled. Injuries have disrupted his rhythm, forcing him to withdraw from multiple international windows. During that same period, his form at Real Madrid has dipped, with uncharacteristic errors creeping into his performances under Xabi Alonso. According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, these factors have combined to place his World Cup spot in genuine jeopardy.

The Laporte factor returns

The biggest complication for Huijsen is not just internal competition—it is the return of a trusted leader. Laporte’s move back to Spanish soccer has completely changed the equation. While his stint in Saudi Arabia led to a temporary drop from Spain’s plans, Laporte remains one of de la Fuente’s most trusted defenders. Alongside Robin Le Normand, he formed the coach’s first-choice centre-back pairing during Euro 2024 in Germany.

Now reunited on domestic soil, both are widely considered near-certainties for the World Cup if fit, and that leaves limited room. Spain is expected to take four centre-backs, with at least five strong candidates in contention. With Laporte and Le Normand effectively locked in, Huijsen is fighting for the remaining spots against Pau Cubarsi and Dani Vivian. None of the trio is enjoying flawless seasons, which only heightens the tension.

There are also outsiders pushing hard. Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera has impressed with his versatility—capable of operating both centrally and at right-back—while Aitor Paredes remains on the radar. The margins are slim, and recent form matters.

Spain will face Argentina in the Finalissima and then follow a series of additional plans as part of their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

National teams that have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup are entering a decisive phase of preparation ahead of the FIFA tournament in North America. Spain are considered one of the favorites, and for that reason they are approaching the coming months with the necessary seriousness to arrive in peak condition. In addition to the Finalissima against Argentina, they are already planning their next commitments.

On March 27, the team coached by Luis de la Fuente will face Argentina at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, with their first title of the year on the line. The trophy is contested by the champions of the two strongest confederations in world soccer: Europe and South America. Spain qualified for the Finalissima as winners of UEFA Euro 2024, while their opponents lifted the Copa America 2024.

That match will represent their final major test ahead of the World Cup, as well as their last official game before the June 15 opener against Cape Verde. Still, that does not mean Spain will be idle in the months leading up to their trip to North America.

“It has yet to be definitively confirmed whether it will be Monday the 30th or Tuesday the 31st (of March), but Luis de la Fuente’s national team will face Egypt in their first friendly before the World Cup,” Mundo Deportivo reported on Wednesday, confirming reports that have pointed in the same direction for weeks, indicating that Mohamed Salah’s team will be Spain’s opponent.

The key update is that there is now a clear picture regarding the venue for that potential friendly: Qatar. FIFA regulations require national teams to play their matches during an international break on the same continent, making Asia a fixed destination. In that context, remaining in Qatar to play the friendly emerged as the most logical option.

Spain’s plans ahead of the World Cup

The March international break will be crucial for all national teams, as it represents the final opportunity to experiment before final World Cup rosters must be submitted. The next time teams gather will be in the weeks leading up to the tournament in North America, when squads are expected to be largely finalized.

However, during that window before the World Cup opener, teams will still have the chance to play a couple more friendlies, allowing coaches to put the finishing touches on their lineups. Spain’s plans for that stage have also been revealed.

“It is planned that in June La Roja will play two more preparation matches before the World Cup,” Mundo Deportivo reported. “One will be in Spain and the other in the Americas, preferably in the United States, although that has not yet been confirmed.”

Spain will play their first two group-stage matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. They will then travel to Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico, for the decisive match against Uruguay. Based on that itinerary, the team is currently looking to establish its base during the tournament, preferably close to those cities.

Xabi Alonso, once a promising figure at Real Madrid, now finds his role as head coach under threat after some inconsistencies. In this context, Cesc Fàbregas provided a brief analysis of his situation, highlighting what he perceives as the main challenge facing the Spaniard at Los Blancos.

Xabi Alonso arrived at Real Madrid with a promise to architect a new era for the club, one where young talents like Arda Güler, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé would take center stage. However, that promising start quickly faded as a series of inconsistencies arose. In response, Cesc Fàbregas provided a brief analysis of the Spanish coach’s situation, highlighting what he perceives as Alonso’s main challenge at Los Blancos.

“They are all very good (Real Madrid players). They all deserve to play. They all think they have to play. They all have to make the difference. They all cost 50 million. They all play for their national teams. Managing this, without a doubt, has to be the most difficult thing of all,” Cesc Fabregas said in Xabi Alonso’s documentary ‘The Architect’.

Unlike his tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso now faces the challenge of managing globally high-profile figures with imposing egos. Rumors have even circulated about tensions between him and players like Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Federico Valverde. Although these issues seem to be resolved, he has yet to establish a dominant playing style since his arrival, hinting the difficulty of coaching top-class players.

While the management of stars is quite complex, Xabi Alonso faces a big problem in midfield. Anticipating his problematic absence, the coach was not in favor of Luka Modric’s departure, as he knew how important he was to the team. While Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, and Aurelien Tchouameni shine, none of them is able to dominate the tempo of the game.

In case Xabi Alonso fails to put together a winning run or does not manage to win the Copa del Rey, Real Madrid could decide to part ways with him, Spanish media report. Despite having imposed a brilliant tactical structure at Leverkusen, the coach has lost control of the locker room and is struggling to enforce his style of play, according to The Athletic. As a result, the upcoming matches could determine his future at the club.

Report: Xabi Alonso target Rodrygo as key star Real Madrid

Rodrygo Goes has transformed from being sidelined at Real Madrid to becoming a pivotal player in resolving the team’s challenges. At the start of the 2025–26 season, Franco Mastantuono and Jude Bellingham assumed prominent roles on the right wing, relegating the Brazilian to a secondary position. Nevertheless, the 24-year-old star has reclaimed his significance within the team, with the coach planning to make him the focal point of the attack.

According to Diario Marca, Xabi Alonso wants to channel most attacking moves through Rodrygo first. His creative and organizational skills are seen as crucial in boosting the offense alongside Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe. Since the Brazilian returned to top form, Real Madrid has shown marked improvement in their play, inspiring confidence in the coach that Rodrygo can become the key figure for his team.

Lamine Yamal has learned, far too early, what it means to live under constant scrutiny at the elite level. At Barcelona, pressure is not seasonal—it is permanent.

Lamine Yamal has learned, far too early, what it means to live under constant scrutiny at the elite level. At Barcelona, pressure is not seasonal—it is permanent. And now, as the club navigates another demanding campaign, that same environment has once again taken its toll on a senior star. While Yamal continues to thrive amid expectations few teenagers could handle, a more established teammate has been forced to confront the darker side of elite soccer. What initially looked like an unfortunate physical setback for Raphinha has since revealed a far more complex and unsettling backstory.

At Barcelona, where excellence is demanded every week, the margin between brilliance and burnout is razor-thin. With Yamal and Raphinha both central to the club’s attacking identity, the contrast between youthful resilience and accumulated mental strain has rarely been clearer.

From a purely sporting perspective, the Blaugrana are relieved. After nearly two months on the sidelines, Raphinha has returned in emphatic fashion. In just five starts since his comeback, the Brazilian has delivered four goals and one assist, including a decisive strike against Villarreal.

The numbers underline his importance. At 29, he remains one of the club’s most productive wide attackers, capable of stretching defenses, delivering end product, and setting the tempo in the final third. His absence earlier in the season was deeply felt, especially during a congested run of fixtures that tested squad depth. Yet while his form since November has been outstanding, the story of how he ended up sidelined for so long is far more troubling than a routine muscle injury.

The injury that refused to heal

Raphinha’s problems began in September during a league win away at Real Oviedo. What was initially diagnosed as a manageable hamstring issue was expected to keep him out for just three weeks. Instead, it marked the beginning of a prolonged and frustrating spell on the sidelines.

As the calendar moved toward October, pressure mounted. Barcelona was approaching El Clasico, and the temptation to accelerate his recovery proved costly. The forward returned before fully healing—and suffered a relapse. That second setback extended his absence by another month.

The winger has since taken responsibility for the decision, admitting that the rushed comeback contributed to the recurrence. But behind the scenes, club officials believe there was more at play than physical misjudgment.

The hidden reason revealed

According to Cadena SER, several Barcelona officials believe Raphinha’s initial injury was linked to Ballon d’Or stress—the psychological strain surrounding soccer’s most prestigious individual award. Journalist Sique Rodriguez explained the internal view clearly: “At the club, there are those who attribute one of this season’s injuries to several aspects. Among them the Ballon d’Or and the days after. Because he expected to be among the top three and he finished fifth. There are people within the club who attribute that injury to the stress of the whole week.”

For Raphinha, the 2025 ceremony in Paris was not just an honor—it was an emotional blow. After a sensational Champions League campaign in which he finished as joint-top scorer and leading assist provider, expectations inside his camp were sky-high. Finishing fifth came as a shock.

The disappointment did not end there. Weeks later, Raphinha was also left out of FIFA The Best World XI, a decision that reignited frustration inside the club.  Barcelona coach Hansi Flick did not hide his anger, publicly criticizing the omission in a pre-match press conference.

For Flick, the snub was another example of how individual accolades often fail to reflect actual performance on the pitch. For the player, however, the accumulation of setbacks—emotional, mental, and physical—appears to have reached a breaking point earlier in the season.

The departure of Luka Modric, taken against the wishes of Xabi Alonso, has reshaped two elite squads—and revealed how one club’s calculated gamble has become another’s competitive advantage.

Christian Pulisic may not have been directly involved in the decision, but its ripple effects are now being felt across Europe. While he continues to establish himself as a central figure at the San Siro, events in Madrid have quietly tilted the balance of power in his favor. The departure of Luka Modric, taken against the wishes of Xabi Alonso, has reshaped two elite squads—and revealed how one club’s calculated gamble has become another’s competitive advantage.

In Madrid, the decision was framed as a necessary step toward renewal. In Milan, it has become a masterstroke. And for Pulisic, it has altered the internal hierarchy of influence in a way few anticipated.

The story begins before Xabi Alonso had even settled into his new office at the Bernabeu. As revealed by El Mundo, Real Madrid’s board had already made up its mind about Modric’s future. Despite the Croatian’s willingness to stay, even offering multiple salary reductions to extend his contract by another year, the club hierarchy delivered a firm refusal.

Alonso, who had just taken over from Carlo Ancelotti, privately supported Modric’s continuation. He viewed the veteran midfielder as a stabilizing presence—someone who could guide a young core through transitional moments. But the decision was no longer his to make.

From Madrid’s perspective, the rationale was clear: bet on youth, not legacy. The club believed the midfield was already well stocked with Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, and Arda Guler. Modric, at nearly 40 at the time, was deemed surplus to the long-term vision.

Madrid’s youth bet—and its immediate cost

On paper, the logic made sense. Los Blancos have built an empire by moving early, trusting young stars before their peak years. Yet soccer is rarely played on spreadsheets alone. As the season unfolded, cracks began to show. The midfield—dynamic but inexperienced—has struggled at key moments to control tempo, dictate rhythm, and manage game states. What Madrid lost was not just a passer, but leadership, calm, and institutional memory.

Modric’s absence has been felt most acutely in high-pressure scenarios, where the lack of a senior conductor has left Alonso’s side exposed. While Thibaut Courtois and Dani Carvajal remain dressing-room leaders, the midfield no longer has a natural general.

Milan’s gain: Modric reborn in Italy

If Madrid underestimated Modric’s remaining value, Milan wasted no time capitalizing. Signed on a one-year deal, the Croatian arrived not as a ceremonial figure—but as a starter.

The impact has been immediate and profound. Modric has started all 15 league matches, completed 1,068 passes, and created 26 chances, more than any other Rossoneri player. At 40, he is dictating matches with the same elegance that once defined Champions League nights in Spain.

To improve defensive consistency and boost Lamine Yamal's performance, Barcelona initially targeted Marc Guehi. However, the Englishman has been ruled out due to compelling reasons, and two Premier League stars have been offered as alternatives.

Lamine Yamal has firmly established himself as a key player for Barcelona, leading the attack with an impressive presence. However, the team continues to struggle defensively, prompting Marc Guehi to emerge as a top option due to his free-agent status and high level of play. Despite his potential, the Englishman has been ruled out for compelling reasons, leading to the consideration of two Premier League stars as alternative solutions.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Marc Guehi has emerged as one of the central defenders who best fits Hansi Flick’s system. Barcelona reportedly even met with his agent to reach an agreement and sign a pre-contract. However, the Englishman was reportedly ruled out by the Culers because of his high salary demands, which are far from what was expected. Following this, two Premier League stars are offered to the Spanish side.

Barcelona have received offers for two Premier League players: Chelsea’s Axel Disasi and Manchester City’s Nathan Ake as January 2026 arrivals, reports Diario Sport. Both players have been dropped by their clubs, raising doubts on the Spanish side about their potential impact on the team. However, both could arrive on loan, though the Citizens are reportedly seeking a compulsory purchase option, something the Culers would not accept.

Focusing on a long-term option, Ake and Guehi may not fulfill Barcelona’s objectives. Therefore, they might not pursue their arrival in January 2026, as all efforts will concentrate on acquiring a top-class left-footed center back, reports Adrian Sanchez of MasQuePelotas. In this context, Nico Schlotterbeck remains the primary option to reinforce the defense despite the strong competition to secure his arrival ahead the 2026-27 season.

Barcelona could face a major defensive overhaul in the 2026-27 season

Following Iñigo Martinez’s departure at the start of the season, Barcelona experienced defensive instability that severely impacted the team. Consequently, Ronald Araujo struggled with his performance, and Andreas Christensen faced significant physical issues. This situation leaves the team with only Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, and Gerard Martin as central defense options. Thus, the Blaugranas are gearing up for a significant defensive overhaul the 2026-27 season.

With the aim of boosting the arrival of a left-footed center-back, Andreas Christensen could leave Barcelona as a free agent, while Ronald Araújo would be sold, opening space for a new signing to balance the squad. Not only is Schlotterbeck emerging as a priority, but Marcos Senesi is also in the picture, shining at AFC Bournemouth and potentially available on a free transfer.

Given the strong competition to secure Senesi and Schlotterbeck, Barcelona have reignited their interest in Murillo, who is currently excelling at Nottingham Forest. Having tracked him since 2023, the Brazilian is well regarded within the Spanish side, but interest from several top Premier League clubs could drive up his price, as he is under contract until 2029—unlike the other two alternatives.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in a teammate of Lionel Messi on the Argentina national team who currently plays in the Premier League.

A teammate of Lionel Messi with the Argentina national team could soon leave the Premier League to continue his professional career in La Liga, with reports suggesting interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. The 2026 FIFA World Cup could play a decisive role in the potential move.

“Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are ready to battle it out for Bournemouth star Marcos Senesi,” TeamTalk reported this week. The Argentine defender has been a key figure for the Cherries at the start of the 2025–26 season, starting 16 of the club’s 17 Premier League matches.

However, at 28 years old and with his contract nearing its expiration, Senesi is reportedly open to a move to a club with greater European exposure than Bournemouth. As a result, he “has informed the Cherries he is leaving the club in 2026,” according to TeamTalk.

That situation places the Premier League side in a dilemma. Refusing to negotiate the Argentine defender’s early departure in the winter transfer window would allow them to keep him for the remainder of the season but risk losing him for free afterward. A transfer now, on the other hand, would at least ensure some financial compensation.

Senesi sets his sights on the World Cup

Marcos Senesi has been on the radar of the Argentina national team since 2022. He made his debut that year in a friendly against Estonia, playing 28 minutes in a 5–0 win in which Lionel Messi scored all five goals. Since then, however, the defender has struggled to remain in head coach Lionel Scaloni’s plans.

In fact, after that match in June 2022, more than three years passed before Senesi saw the field again for Argentina. That came during the 2025 October international break, when he played the full match against Venezuela in a friendly in the United States. After that, he was an unused substitute against Puerto Rico and again in November against Angola.

Senesi’s profile — a left-footed center back with strong physical presence — makes him an intriguing option for Scaloni. Still, the imminent return of Lisandro Martinez from injury represents a significant obstacle to Senesi’s World Cup aspirations. For that reason, a potential move away from Bournemouth to a higher-profile club such as Barcelona or Atletico Madrid could be crucial in boosting his chances of earning a spot at the FIFA tournament.

Barcelona are looking for a defender

The reported interest from Barcelona in Marcos Senesi is not surprising, given the defensive issues the team coached by Hansi Flick has faced in the first half of the season. The club never fully replaced Iñigo Martinez after his departure to Al Nassr last summer and is now looking to address that gap with a new signing.

After links to players such as Pau Torres and Marc Guehi, speculation has now shifted toward two other Premier League defenders: Manchester City’s Nathan Ake and Chelsea’s Axel Disasi. In that context, Senesi could emerge as a more affordable option — a key factor given Barcelona’s ongoing financial challenges.

Set to face Newcastle United on Boxing Day, Ruben Amorim will have to deal with the absence of two Manchester United stars due to injury.

Manchester United will host Newcastle United on Friday, December 26, for Matchday 18 of the 2025-26 Premier League season, as they look to regain stability and push for a European place. With this matchup standing as the lone Boxing Day fixture, head coach Ruben Amorim will be without two key Red Devils stars due to injury.

Without European competition, the 2025–26 campaign has fallen short of expectations for United, as the team has struggled for consistency, swinging between highs and lows that have left supporters frustrated. With a potential top-five push still within reach, the Red Devils now face an added challenge with two starters sidelined.

During Wednesday’s pre-match press conference, Amorim was asked whether Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo would be available against Newcastle, and his response was direct: “No, not for this game. They are recovering. I don’t think that is going to take a lot of time. I think Kobbie is going to return faster than Bruno, but for this game, they’re out.“

In last weekend’s match against Aston Villa, Mainoo was left out of the squad after suffering a last-minute calf injury. During the same game, captain Fernandes was forced off at halftime after picking up a soft-tissue injury in the first half, with both midfielders now joining Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt on the sidelines.

While Amorim admitted he has a sense of the recovery timelines, he stopped short of providing a clear return date for the Portuguese playmaker. He acknowledged how Fernandes’ absence impacts the team but framed it as an opportunity for others to step up as leaders: “I think it’s impossible to replace Bruno,” Amorim said. “But we need to take the good thing—if there is a good thing—that other players now have to step up.“

Amorim to look for options to replace both stars

With Fernandes entrenched as a starter and Mainoo typically serving as his primary alternative, United have taken two blows in the same position. Against Aston Villa, Fernandes was replaced by Lisandro Martínez, who shifted into midfield, while Amorim also handed debuts to 18-year-olds Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey.

Asked how the team plans to cope with both midfielders sidelined, Amorim expressed confidence in his squad depth: “We have other players. We maybe need to try and see different ways of playing. I think Jack Fletcher did a good job, and that’s why, when we have this opportunities to give spaces to guys like Jack and the other ones, we’ll find solutions to play.“

Why is only Manchester United vs. Newcastle United on Boxing Day?

England’s top flight has long embraced the Boxing Day tradition, with matches played on December 26 becoming a staple of the soccer calendar. However, in 2025, only Manchester United vs. Newcastle United will be played on the day itself, while the remaining nine fixtures are spread across December 27 and 28, raising questions among fans.

Broadcasting requirements stipulate that 33 league rounds must be played on weekends each season, with only five permitted during midweek. As a result, Boxing Day has been removed from the midweek slate, with the Premier League almost breaking historic tradition, reducing it to a single fixture.

Former coach Sergio Conceição spoke candidly on Christian Pulisic’s AC Milan with a strong statement: "The team's environment wasn’t good."

Sergio Conceição endured a brief tenure of just 31 matches at AC Milan during the 2024–25 season, as the club failed to qualify for European competition after finishing ninth in Serie A. Now coaching in Saudi Arabia, the former manager of Christian Pulisic broke his silence with a candid assessment of his time in Italy: “The team’s environment wasn’t good.”

After Paulo Fonseca’s dismissal late in the year, Conceição took over as head coach on December 30, 2024, and quickly won over supporters by lifting the Supercoppa Italiana, defeating both Inter Milan and Juventus with Pulisic playing a starring role. Despite finishing ninth in the 2024–25 Serie A campaign and losing the Coppa Italia final, the Portuguese coach described his six-month spell as positive, while acknowledging that “there were some things I didn’t like.”

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Conceição was asked about the challenges he faced during his time at the Rossoneri: “There was instability at the ownership level, and the environment around the team wasn’t good. That’s why I hold on tightly to what we achieved. In addition, the club’s management didn’t support me.“

The Portuguese manager also pointed to moments that foreshadowed his short stay at the Italian giant. “I’ll give you an example: after winning the Supercoppa, we played Cagliari. At that time, rumors were already circulating that the club was following other coaches. I was focused on working and winning, carrying the weight of results. I didn’t have time to work on all levels,” he added.

Following the Supercoppa triumph, Milan’s momentum faded, highlighted by a disappointing elimination against Feyenoord in the Champions League playoffs, with the failure to secure European qualification proving decisive. Although Conceição finished with a record of 16 wins, five draws, and 10 losses across 31 matches, he admitted he would have been open to staying at the club “but with some changes.”

AC Milan players didn’t betray Conceição

Since RedBird Capital Partners assumed ownership of the club in August 2022, Milan have undergone a significant structural overhaul, including the departure of club legend Paolo Maldini. Amid that transition, several changes followed, and as Conceição revealed, the board never fully backed him as the long-term head coach.

However, despite a season in which performances often fell short, Conceição was adamant that Pulisic and his teammates stood by him. When asked whether the players betrayed him, the current Al Ittihad coach was unequivocal: “Never—on the contrary, they were with me. Theo (Hernandez) said it as well in the interview you did with him: after the Feyenoord match, when people said he got himself sent off on purpose, I defended him.“

Hernández was another key figure to eventually leave the squad, yet despite tensions with the club’s leadership, the dressing room remained united during a difficult stretch of results. “Many players wrote to me when I left. I demand discipline and high standards, and then relaxation when it’s time to relax. If someone shows up a kilo overweight, arrives late, or similar things, I can’t tolerate it. For me, in the end, all players are equal,” Conceicao concluded.

Roberto Martinez sent a strong message about Portugal’s chances of reaching — and winning — a potential final at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is drawing closer, and there is growing consensus about which teams are considered title favorites. Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Portugal are firmly in that conversation for many observers, and head coach Roberto Martinez has shown no shortage of confidence in his squad’s potential.

During an interview with Marca, Martinez was asked what wish he would make right now. “To play in the World Cup final,” was his initial answer, before adding with complete confidence: “If we play it, we win it, for sure.”

The coach’s comments reflect the strong belief he has in his players and in his own work, which over the past three years has produced solid results, including winning the UEFA Nations League after defeating Spain in the final.

“I would love to play in a final,” the Portugal coach admitted. “Emotionally, you have to show a lot of respect for where we come from, but professionally the work is always focused on what we can achieve. If we can play another final, like we did in the Nations League, that would be fantastic… Playing eight matches would be a success.”

Martinez explains why Portugal are not favorites to win the 2026 World Cup

In the same interview, Roberto Martinez discussed which teams he believes have the best chance of lifting the trophy at the next World Cup. “This is where you see the difference between being a favorite and being a contender. I think only teams that have previously won a World Cup can truly be considered favorites,” said the Spanish coach.

“Psychologically, knowing that a previous generation has won that tournament gives you a special strength,” added the Portugal coach. “Right now, I see national teams arriving in very good shape, like Spain. Germany are also well prepared because of what happened to them at home in the Nations League… And they are the only European national team to have won a World Cup in the Americas (in Brazil in 2014). France, in my opinion, are built for major tournaments, and also, because of proximity, Brazil and Argentina.”

Based on that theory, Martinez places Portugal in a second tier of teams that he refers to as “contenders.” The absence of World Cup titles in the country’s history is, for him, a decisive factor when competing for the trophy. The numbers back it up: in the last 11 editions of the World Cup, only twice have champions been teams that had never won it before (France in 1998 and Spain in 2010).

Martinez proposes a format change for the World Cup

The 2026 edition will be the first World Cup in history to feature 48 teams, a 50 percent increase compared to previous tournaments. “I love it. The World Cup is for everyone, and making it easier for fans and players to have the chance to reach the World Cup should be a good thing,” Roberto Martinez said.

“What I don’t like is the format. There are too many matches, and all of them should matter,” added the Portugal coach, before proposing a change for the future. “I would like group winners, as happens in the Champions League, to automatically advance one round. That way, we would avoid situations where the third group-stage match becomes an opportunity to see which path is more appealing in terms of logistics or opponents.”

Marcus Rashford has found his footing at Barcelona, delivering solid performances alongside Lamine Yamal. However, his permanent arrival to the team remains uncertain. In light of this, the Englishman has sent a strong message to Manchester United regarding his future.

After years of inconsistent performances, Marcus Rashford seems to have found his ideal place at Barcelona. While he is not always a starter, he frequently sees significant playing time alongside Lamine Yamal. However, his permanent stay with the team remains uncertain due to his high cost. In light of this, the Englishman has sent a strong message to Manchester United about his future, clearly stating his intentions.

“What I want is to stay at Barca. It’s the ultimate goal, but it’s not the reason I’m training hard and giving my all. The purpose is to win. Barca are a huge, fantastic club, built to win titles… I’m settling in really well at the club and in the city. From the moment I arrived, I felt very welcomed… For me, the reason I’m here is to help the team win trophies; last season was fantastic, but life moves very fast, things change,” Marcus Rashford said, via Diario Sport.

With a supposed purchase option estimated at €30–35 million, Barcelona would reportedly be reluctant to exercise it, as the player is 28 years old, and it would represent a fairly high investment. However, the Englishman’s performances have led the Blaugranas to consider buying him, although his transfer would need to be negotiated with the Red Devils—something the player himself appears to be pushing through his constant public statements.

Not only his strong on-field contribution with Lamine Yamal but also his total commitment to the team has impressed Hansi Flick. The Englishman is also reportedly willing to lower his salary demands, making a move to Barcelona easier. As a result, interest from PSG and Atlético Madrid may fail to progress, as Marcus Rashford is fully focused on staying permanently at the Culers, where he would be an important player in the rotation.

Rashford’s Barcelona future may hinge on a key departure

As long as Raphinha stays fully fit, Hansi Flick will start him on the left wing, while Lamine Yamal and Roony Bardghji take charge of the right. With Ferran Torres established as the first-choice striker, Marcus Rashford serves as the alternative to the Brazilian on the left side. Although his performance suggests a potential purchase, Barcelona may first need to address the future of a player who is set to return in the 2026-27 season.

According to Romain Molina, Ansu Fati is set to return to the Blaugranas after his loan spell at AS Monaco, having failed to shine. Not being contemplated in Hansi Flick’s plans, the 23-year-old star could leave the team, but his multimillion-dollar salary complicates the interest of several teams, reports Adrian Sanchez in MasQuePelotas. In case Fati does not find another destination, his huge salary could prevent Rashford’s registration, making his arrival impossible.

Although Vinicius Jr. remains a key figure at Real Madrid, his future with the team seems far from certain. Moreover, the Brazilian has reportedly made a move that brings him closer to the Premier League amid the growing importance of Rodrygo Goes in the lineup.

Vinicius Jr. has established himself as one of Real Madrid‘s most important players, leading the team to several titles since his arrival. However, with Kylian Mbappe’s arrival, Vinicius has taken on a secondary role, casting some doubt over his future with the team. Consequently, the Brazilian has reportedly made a move to the Premier League amid the growing importance of Rodrygo Goes in the lineup.

According to TEAMtalk, Real Madrid remain keen to secure the renewal of Vinicius Jr. However, the Brazilian has reportedly informed Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester City that he wishes to move to the Premier League. Given this, the Spanish side would reportedly be open to selling him in 2026 in case he continues to reject renewal proposals, as they do not consider a free agent exit for him.

Alongside Vinícius Jr’s move towards the Premier League, Xabi Alonso is reportedly planning to give Rodrygo Goes a key role. According to Diario Marca, the coach has decided to make the 24-year-old a focal point of the team’s play, ensuring he receives the ball far more often and helps organize the attack. As a result, Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham, who usually operate on the right flank, could be rearranged within the system, potentially affecting Vinícius’ prominence.

Rodrygo’s emergence, combined with uncertainty surrounding his contract renewal, has raised serious doubts about Vinícius Jr.’s continuity. Although Radio Marca reports that Real Madrid’s absolute priority is to secure his future, the 25-year-old star did not finish the year in his best form. After going 17 matches without scoring, the Brazilian’s level is being judged by the fans, who even whistled him in the most recent match against Sevilla.

Vinicius Jr offers a key profile to Real Madrid, making his continuity crucial

Far from being just a scorer, Vinicius Jr is a truly vital player for Real Madrid. With his pace out wide and his dribbling ability, he is the only player capable of being genuinely decisive in this area of the team. Rodrygo, Brahim Díaz, Franco Mastantuono, and even Jude Bellingham may also be able to shine on the wing, but none share the same profile as the 25-year-old Brazilian, which makes his continuity viewed as crucial.

Even though Vinicius has gone 17 games without scoring, he remains a key contributor for Real Madrid. In 2025, the Brazilian recorded 15 assists, emerging as the team’s best player in this category and surpassing Arda Güler, Jude Bellingham, and even Rodrygo Goes. This achievement highlights the 25-year-old left winger’s impressive ability to adapt, transitioning from a top goal scorer to a playmaker.

With this in mind, Real Madrid still consider Vinicius a main star for the sporting project. Moreover, Florentino Perez does not want the Brazilian star to leave the team, emerging as key to solving the personal problems with coach Xabi Alonso, report Radio Marca and several media outlets. For that reason, the Spanish side remains hopeful of securing his contract extension in the weeks ahead.

Thomas Muller spoke about how he saw Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer and, based on that, shared his thoughts on Leo’s chances of competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Lionel Messi had an almost perfect season with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer 2025, which culminated in the championship after defeating Vancouver Whitecaps in the final. Thomas Muller experienced the talent of the Argentine forward firsthand in that match and, based on that experience, offered his perspective on the role Leo could play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

During a recent interview with Magenta TV, Muller was asked about the speculation regarding whether Messi will be part of the Argentina squad next summer in North America. “It would be an interesting project from my point of view if he were there,” the German player began.

However, Thomas made it clear that Messi’s presence would not necessarily provide a boost for Argentina. “That could, of course, change the whole balance of the team, whether for better or for worse,” he said.

These comments relate to a topic often debated about Messi’s role on the field. He remains a decisive player, even at 38, in the creative aspects of the game, but his defensive contributions are minimal, forcing his teammates to work harder to compensate. When Muller refers to Argentina’s “balance,” he is undoubtedly alluding to this dynamic.

Muller reflects on Messi’s MLS performance

After facing each other for more than a decade at the international level and in European soccer, Thomas Muller and Lionel Messi met again this year in the United States, in the Major League Soccer final between Vancouver Whitecaps and Inter Miami.

There, Messi delivered a standout performance with two assists for the victory and the championship for the Herons, something Muller observed up close. “When he was on the ball, he just absolutely burst into life in the right areas and then really initiated a lot of things,” the German star recalled.

Still, Muller emphasized that the level of competition in MLS is far from what the World Cup demands, being the most important tournament in soccer. “Whether that would work like that off the cuff at top international level, I doubt,” explained the Bayern Munich legend.

Thomas Muller on the 2026 World Cup

In the same interview, reflecting on Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller shared his thoughts on Argentina’s chances of repeating their 2022 World Cup title, acknowledging that the South American team is “high on the list” of favorites.

Finally, he also spoke about his country’s own prospects. “At first glance, when you read the names of the opponents, it is of course a must to go through,” he said, referring to Ecuador, Ivory Coast, and Curacao, Germany’s Group E rivals.

“With Ivory Coast we have the African champions, and with Ecuador the runners-up from South American qualifying. But when you then look again at the overall set-up, that the eight best third-placed teams from 12 groups also go through, then going through is again a must,” Muller added.

Al Nassr dominated Al Zawraa in the AFC Champions League Two, and Cristiano Ronaldo provided a brilliant assist to Joao Felix.

Al Nassr displayed their full strength in the AFC Champions League Two. After winning their first five matches, they dominated Al Zawraa with a 5-1 victory to secure first place in Group D. Cristiano Ronaldo contributed with an impressive assist to Joao Felix for the fourth goal.

Things got off to a strong start for Jorge Jesus’ team from the opening moments. It took Kingsley Coman just 12 minutes to open the scoring with a delicate left-footed touch that left the opposing goalkeeper with no chance.

That was followed by two more goals that cemented Al Nassr’s lead and gave them the confidence to approach the rest of the match with composure. Wesley scored the second goal in the 19th minute after pouncing on a rebound inside the box, while Abdulelah Al-Amri extended the lead with a header.

To cap off a dream first half, Cristiano Ronaldo provided a brilliant assist for Joao Felix, subtly lofting the ball over the defenders to put the young Portuguese forward one-on-one with the goalkeeper, allowing him to finish with a precise strike.

🚨🚨| GOAL: JOAO FELIX MAKES IT FOUR WITH AN ASSIST FROM CRISTIANO RONALDO!!

Al Nassr 4-0 Al Zawraapic.twitter.com/nE1lVEsnsS

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) December 24, 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo is substituted at halftime

With the score at 4-0, Jorge Jesus decided to make a change before the start of the second half to give his most important player some rest. Cristiano Ronaldo did not return to the field after the break with the rest of his teammates and was replaced by Mohammed Maran.

Without CR7 on the pitch, Al Nassr seemed to ease off in the early minutes of the second half and conceded a goal to the visitors through Ibrahim Gbadamosi. However, that brief response from Al Zawraa was quickly erased when, six minutes later, Kingsley Coman scored to make it 5-1.

What’s next for Al Nassr?

The victory over Al Zawraa allowed Al Nassr to finish their group stage in the AFC Champions League Two perfectly. With six wins from six matches, they now turn their attention to the knockout stages, confident as clear favorites to claim the title.

However, Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates’ main ambition this season is not the continental title but the Saudi Pro League. They have also had an impressive run there, currently leading the standings with 27 points from a possible 27 across nine matches.

After a break of more than a month in the tournament, Al Nassr will return to Saudi Pro League action this Saturday, December 27, against Al Akhdoud, aiming for their tenth consecutive win. The proximity of this match likely explains Jorge Jesus’ decision to substitute Ronaldo at halftime today.

While Yamal continues to symbolize Spain’s generational shift, a very different and far more controversial decision is taking shape behind the scenes.

The rise of Lamine Yamal has put a renewed spotlight on Barcelona and Spain as the 2026 World Cup approaches, but not every standout performer at the club appears destined for North America. While Yamal continues to symbolize Spain’s generational shift, a very different and far more controversial decision is taking shape behind the scenes. Despite elite-level performances week after week, one Barcelona star is increasingly expected to miss out on the World Cup squad altogether.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has now addressed the situation publicly, delivering a blunt verdict that makes clear how ruthless international selection can be—even in the face of outstanding form. For some, the decision will feel harsh. For others, it is inevitable. Either way, it has become one of the most debated selection calls on Spain’s road to 2026.

Just before the discussion turns tactical and explicit, the mystery name can be revealed: Joan Garcia. This season has been pivotal for several players at Barcelona, especially those harboring ambitions of representing La Roja at the next World Cup. Few have made a stronger individual case than Garcia, who arrived in the summer after a bold move from city rival Espanyol.

From his very first appearances, the 24-year-old brought a sense of calm and authority between the posts. His reflexes, positioning, and command of the penalty area have significantly improved Barca’s defensive stability. In La Liga alone, he has already registered six clean sheets in 12 games, often producing decisive saves in high-pressure moments.

One performance, in particular, stood out. Against Villarreal, Garcia delivered a man-of-the-match display, pulling off a remarkable double save that left teammates and opponents alike in disbelief. It was his sixth league clean sheet in just a dozen appearances—numbers that normally all but guarantee a national team call-up.

What did De la Fuente say?

Yet international soccer rarely follows a purely meritocratic logic. Speaking to Diario AS, Luis de la Fuente made it clear that trust and continuity still outweigh short-term brilliance. “It’s true that we’re betting on these three now and we’re delighted with Unai, David, and Alex,” he explained, referring to Unai Simon, David Raya, and Alex Remiro. “We’ll see what happens between now and March or what happens between now and June, God knows. We have five or six of the best goalkeepers in the world.”

Then came the line that effectively defined the situation: “When that time comes, a decision will have to be made that will please some people more and others less. The decision I make is the one with which I will be convinced.” It was a carefully worded response—but one that, read between the lines, suggested Garcia is currently on the outside looking in.

Why Spain’s door is almost closed

Spain’s goalkeeping hierarchy is one of the most stable in Europe. Simon, Raya, and Remiro have formed the backbone of the national side through recent tournaments, delivering consistency rather than spectacle. De la Fuente values that familiarity deeply, particularly in a position where cohesion with the defensive line is paramount.

Unless injury or a dramatic collapse in form intervenes, Spain is expected to stick with those three, as per Cadena SER. That reality places Garcia in an unfortunate position: performing at an elite level, yet blocked by circumstance rather than quality.

Ironically, statistical comparisons suggest Garcia has outperformed all three this season in several key metrics. But international selection is not built solely on numbers—it is built on trust accumulated over years.

Ousmane Dembélé thrived at PSG, ultimately winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. However, the Frenchman seems to have transitioned from an ideal situation at the club to a tense one, leaving him not entirely satisfied compared to previous seasons.

Ousmane Dembélé surprised everyone with his performance during the 2024–25 season, playing a key role in PSG’s historic campaign. As a result, the Frenchman secured his first Ballon d’Or, surpassing Lamine Yamal with his impressive statistics. However, his situation at the French club has shifted from ideal to tense under coach Luis Enrique, reportedly leaving him unhappy with the team.

In the 2025–26 season, Ousmane Dembélé has endured a series of injuries that have disrupted his continuity at PSG, relegating him to a secondary role. According to Canal Plus, the French star believes he is now ready to return to the starting lineup. However, coach Luis Enrique continues to keep him as a bench option, preferring a conservative approach to his return. As a result, the 28-year-old star is reportedly unhappy with his playing time.

Far from no longer being considered a star by Luis Enrique, the coach has stated that he wants to proceed with caution, avoiding relapses like Rodri Hernández’s that could further delay his return to his best form. Because of this, the Frenchman has logged just 591 minutes so far this season with PSG, raising serious questions about his potential impact upon his return, as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué have taken over the leadership of the attack.

Dembele’s PSG renewal in doubt due to a critical condition

While Ousmane Dembélé has already moved away from his injury-prone reputation, Paris Saint-Germain have chosen to remain quite cautious regarding his return to the starting lineup, as he has already suffered two injuries during the 2025–26 season. However, it is not only his limited playing time that raises concerns but also his contract renewal, which may not be fully secured due to a shift in strategy by the French club.

As reported by Le Parisien, PSG are highly interested in securing Dembele’s contract extension. With his current deal ending in 2028, the French side is open to being flexible with the 2025 Ballon d’Or requests. However, one key detail may derail the agreement: the offer consists of a lower-than-usual base salary coupled with performance-related bonuses. This means that he could earn a higher salary if he maintains consistency, something the 28-year-old star does not agree with.

Unlike previous seasons, Paris Saint-Germain have demonstrated a firm stance by transferring Gianluigi Donnarumma to Manchester City for €30 million without hesitation. Consequently, Ousmane Dembele’s future with the team hinges on his acceptance of the new conditions as the French side seems prepared to transfer him if necessary, or even wait until 2028 for him to depart as a free agent.

Lionel Messi's successor in Catalonia, Yamal, has not only matched the elite—he has surpassed them at just 18, topping Mbappe in a decisive attacking feat that underlines how rapidly the balance of power is shifting.

Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe are already inseparable in any serious conversation about soccer’s present and future, but 2025 has delivered a striking new twist to that rivalry. While Mbappe continues to define eras with his explosiveness and end product, a teenager in Barcelona colors has quietly surged ahead in one of the game’s most demanding attacking metrics. Lionel Messi‘s successor in Catalonia, Yamal, has not only matched the elite—he has surpassed them at just 18, topping Mbappe in a decisive attacking feat that underlines how rapidly the balance of power is shifting.

At club level, Barcelona has entrusted Yamal with responsibility far beyond his age, and the reward has been extraordinary. Across the continent, few players have been as consistently daring, unpredictable, and effective with the ball at their feet. The numbers now confirm what defenders already feel: stopping Yamal one-on-one is becoming an impossible task.

The modern winger is expected to do everything—create, score, press, and stretch defenses. Yamal has embraced all of it. In just 13 league appearances, he has produced six goals and eight assists, a return that would be impressive for a seasoned star, let alone an 18-year-old navigating another full season at the top level.

What truly separates the Spaniard, however, is not simply output but how he generates it. His game is built on direct confrontation. Every match becomes a series of personal duels, and more often than not, Yamal emerges victorious. His acceleration, balance, and timing allow him to glide past defenders who know exactly what is coming—and still cannot stop it.

Those qualities have made him indispensable in the club’s attacking structure. Opponents double-team him, full-backs hesitate, and defensive lines retreat deeper than planned. That alone reshapes matches.

The stats that put him ahead of Mbappe

According to Squawka, Yamal leads Europe’s top five leagues in successful one-on-one dribbles this season. He has completed 69 successful take-ons in La Liga, comfortably more than any other player across England, Spain, Italy, Germany, and France.

For context, Tottenham attacker Mohammed Kudus sits second with 48, while Kylian Mbappe ranks third with 47. Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku follows with 45, and RB Leipzig teenager Yvan Diomande rounds out the top five with 42.

This is not a marginal lead—it is dominance. Yamal is beating defenders at a rate that no one else in Europe can currently match, including Mbappe, who has long been regarded as the benchmark for devastating wide attackers.

Lionel Messi-like numbers

Midway through the season, the full scope of Yamal’s achievement becomes clear. Over the last 12 months, the Barcelona winger has completed 285 successful dribbles across all competitions, the highest total recorded in Europe’s top leagues.

That number places him in rare historical territory. The last Barcelona player to post comparable figures was Lionel Messi, who recorded 297 successful dribbles in 2015. Even Mbappe, with 144 over the same period, sits far behind. The comparison is not meant to crown a successor—but it does underline the scale of what Yamal is doing. To approach Messi-era numbers at 18 is almost unheard of.

Cristiano Ronaldo has led Al Nassr to an impressive start this season, keeping the team unbeaten in the Saudi Pro League. However, the Portuguese star might face a significant challenge as Wesley draws attention from a European team ahead of January 2026.

Cristiano Ronaldo has solidified his position as one of Al Nassr‘s top players, spearheading the team’s unbeaten run in the Saudi Pro League. While showcasing his offensive prowess, coach Jorge Jesus has also achieved a level of defensive consistency previously unseen. Despite these advancements, the Portuguese star might face a challenge, as Wesley may depart the team after drawing interest from a European club in January 2026.

According to CNN Portugal, Wesley Gassova has caught the attention of Benfica, who are already in talks with Al Nassr to secure his arrival in January 2026. Although the 20-year-old remains a key player, coach Jorge Jesus has reportedly given the green light for his departure, as Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman occupy the starting spots. Nevertheless, Gassova’s absence could significantly impact the team’s offensive rotation, prompting them to consider a new signing.

Since joining Al Nassr in 2024, Wesley has firmly established himself as one of the team’s most promising players, significantly impacting their playing structure. However, his limited goal-scoring ability, coupled with the arrivals of Felix and Coman, has cost him his position as an undisputed starter. As a result, the 20-year-old star views his potential move to Benfica as a fresh opportunity and his entry into European soccer as a promising young talent.

Jorge Jesus reveals Al Nassr plans to strengthen Cristiano’s squad

Although Al Nassr have significantly improved their level, Jorge Jesus has stated on several occasions that there are still key pieces missing from the roster. With the potential departure of Wesley Gassova, the club does not appear willing to stand still and is already aiming to strengthen Cristiano Ronaldo’s squad. In his most recent press conference, the coach revealed the two positions the club could look to reinforce in January 2026.

Far from being cautious about potential signings, coach Jorge Jesus made it clear that Al Nassr consider the January transfer window as important, openly stating that they will pursue either a midfielder or a striker. As a result, Cristiano Ronaldo will inevitably gain a high-profile teammate, as the club looks to reinforce the solidity of its sporting project while targeting the Saudi Pro League title and qualification for the AFC Champions League Elite.

According to journalist Sultan Al-Otabi, Atalanta star Éderson and Zenit Saint Petersburg standout Gerson have emerged as leading candidates to reinforce Al Nassr. This addition could allow Angelo to return as an option on the wings, giving the team far greater balance and solidity by adding one of these two stars alongside Marcelo Brozović, something it has lacked in recent seasons and that could bring it closer to winning titles.

Cameroon play against Gabon on Matchday 1 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage. Here’s everything you need to watch the matchup, including kickoff time and full broadcast information with TV and streaming options for viewers in the USA.

Match Overview

A pair of longtime rivals meet with redemption on the line as Gabon and Cameroon open their AFCON journey looking to turn recent disappointment into momentum. Gabon arrives after a tough semifinal defeat to Nigeria, with the spotlight once again on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as he looks to make the most of what could be his final chapters on the international stage.

Cameroon, meanwhile, comes in determined to reassert itself following a stunning setback against DR Congo, leaning on the pace and creativity of Bryan Mbeumo to ignite the attack. With pride, form, and an early tournament statement at stake, this clash has all the ingredients of a must-watch showdown.

Although Neymar Jr. emerged as the undisputed leader of Santos FC to avoid relegation, he had to undergo surgery due to knee problems. With this in mind, the Brazilian's recovery time is already known, and he will miss the start of the 2026 season.

Neymar Jr. transformed his return to Santos FC from a disappointment for fans into an inspiring leadership role during the relegation battle, emerging as a pivotal figure. Yet, he continued to struggle with significant issues in the meniscus of his left knee, necessitating surgery. After a successful procedure, he will miss the start of the 2026 season with the Peixe, leaving him with just a couple of games to convince Carlo Ancelotti ahead of Brazil’s March friendlies.

While the Brazilian star has yet to sign his contract renewal with Santos FC, all indications suggest that an agreement is imminent. If he chooses to stay with his childhood team, Neymar Jr. will likely be sidelined for over a month on his recovery, returning at the end of January 2026. Consequently, the 33-year-old star will only have nine games to showcase his talent and convince coach Carlo Ancelotti, as Brazil’s first game is scheduled for March 26 against France.

With injury-related problems being a major issue in his career, Neymar is not rushing his comeback. Following his impressive performances, the Brazilian veteran is already exciting fans with the potential for a return in peak condition. However, coach Carlo Ancelotti will have only a limited number of games to evaluate his readiness for the national team ahead the 2026 World Cup.

In the 2025 season with Santos FC, Neymar Jr. managed to emerge as one of the best players despite his multiple physical problems. After playing only 28 games, he scored 11 goals and contributed 4 assists, becoming the second-highest scorer on the team, with 20 games less than Guilherme, who was the leading scorer with 14 goals. Thus, the veteran’s talent is undeniable, but reaching his best conditioning remains his main target to make a comeback with Brazil.

Neymar Jr. could receive a blockbuster striker at Santos in 2026

Despite interest from Flamengo, Neymar Jr. has expressed his main intention to remain at Santos FC in 2026. In response, President Marcelo Teixeira has made it clear that the club also intends to extend the Brazilian’s contract, meaning he would return to the Peixe after completing his recovery. With the aim of improving the team’s competitiveness, the club is reportedly close to securing the signing of a star striker, looking to enhance the veteran’s impact.

According to reports from GeGlobo, Gabriel Barbosa, Cruzeiro’s striker, has emerged as Santos FC’s main target. Despite being under contract until 2028, his relationship with Cruzeiro has reportedly soured, making a return to his home club a realistic possibility. In case this move materializes, Neymar Jr. could play alongside one of the best strikers in the Brasileirao, promising a significant boost for the team’s attack.

With Christmas just around the corner, Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola issued a fitness warning to Erling Haaland and the rest of the players.

Pep Guardiola has guided Manchester City back into the Premier League title race during the 2025-26 season, with Erling Haaland once again emerging as the team’s focal point. With the Christmas holiday period approaching and the traditional Boxing Day fixtures looming, the Spanish manager issued a blunt fitness warning to his squad.

Manchester City will face Nottingham Forest on Saturday, December 27, in Matchday 18 of the Premier League, a crucial fixture as City look to finish the first half of the season at the top of the table. However, Guardiola’s primary concern is not the opponent, but rather how his players return physically after the holiday break.

Speaking after City’s win over West Ham, Guardiola was asked about his demands over the players after taking the decision to hold a training session the day after the match, and his response was direct: “Every player make a weight (on Friday). An in the 25th I will be there controlling how many kilos come up. They come ‘fatty.’ You know when you figure out how many kilos you have? They did that; everything perfect, fit.”

Despite the 3–0 victory over the Hammers, Guardiola stressed that City should have been more clinical with their chances and confirmed the squad would now receive three days off instead of four. “The moment they arrive after three days (off) I want to see how they come back. They can eat, but I want to control them,” he added.

Even Erling Haaland, who has scored 19 goals in 17 Premier League appearances, is not exempt from the manager’s standards: “I have to make a selection at the 27th against Nottingham Forest. So imagine one player that was perfect arrives with three kilos more. He will be in Manchester. He will not travel to Nottingham Forest. That’s for sure.“

Guardiola preparing to face a demanding stretch

With 37 points, City trail league leaders Arsenal by two points, and despite the comfortable win over West Ham, Guardiola is focused on ensuring his players are physically ready for the upcoming stretch of matches. That mindset is why the squad trained on Sunday before being released for the holidays.

“The players asked me to take a day off, I said, no, because you didn’t play good enough,” Guardiola explained. “Recovery, train the guys that didn’t play, and after three days off, you have two days to prepare for Nottingham Forest.“

The Spanish boss also acknowledged the toll of the congested calendar but emphasized the importance of balance. “The schedule is so tight. The players need to go with their families and forget about football,” he said.

Between the match against Nottingham Forest and City’s late-January clash with Galatasaray on January 28, the club will play 10 matches across all competitions in just 32 days, an average of fewer than four days between games, underscoring why the manager stressed discipline and recovery during the holiday period.

A member of the Brazil national team staff alongside head coach Carlo Ancelotti could continue his career in Italy’s Serie A, just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With less than six months remaining until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Carlo Ancelotti could lose one of his collaborators on the Brazil national team staff due to a potential offer from a Serie A club.

With just one win in 16 matches in the Italian league, Pisa are experiencing a disappointing 2025–26 season. They sit second-to-last in the standings with 11 points, in the relegation zone, sparking heavy criticism of head coach Alberto Gilardino.

“Pisa have already moved forward and are working on a succession plan,” reported La Gazzetta dello Sport on Tuesday. “With a decidedly original idea: giving young Davide Ancelotti, Carlo’s son and fresh from his first experience as head coach with Botafogo in Brazil, his Italian debut.”

Although Davide has limited experience leading a team, his background—and lineage—make him an attractive option. “The usual names of coaches awaiting appointments have been explored but haven’t particularly excited the owners,” the Italian outlet explained. “The opportunity to bring in a big name like Ancelotti Jr., who grew up in his father’s shadow and is now embarking on a personal career, had a very different effect.”

Davide Ancelotti’s departure would be a problem for Carlo Ancelotti

If the reports from Italy come true, this would be a significant loss for Carlo Ancelotti. His son is part of the staff and, especially since leaving Botafogo at the end of the 2025 season, has reportedly taken a much more active role in supporting his father.

With the World Cup approaching, every bit of support is welcome, given the enormous task ahead: turning around years of disappointing results and positioning Brazil again as one of the favorites to win the title, alongside Argentina, Spain, and France.

Davide Ancelotti’s only head coaching experience

After nearly a decade working alongside his father at clubs like Bayern Munich, Everton, and Real Madrid, Davide launched his career as a head coach this year. The opportunity came with an offer from Botafogo in Brazil, who hired him in July to take charge of the team, then reigning Copa Libertadores champions.

While the Brazilian side under Ancelotti had acceptable results—15 wins, 11 draws, and 7 losses, with a 45.5% win rate—the early Copa Libertadores exit was a decisive blow to his tenure. Once the season ended, the club decided to part ways with the Italian coach.

Despite a strong season, Christian Pulisic has been left outside Serie A’s top five most valuable players, a decision that immediately sparked backlash among fans and analysts alike.

Christian Pulisic continues to deliver on the pitch, yet once again finds himself fighting perception off it. The American has been one of the most reliable attackers in Italy this season, a central figure for Milan and a global face of Serie A. Still, the latest valuation shake-up has reopened a familiar debate: is Pulisic being undervalued compared to his peers? The newest update has reignited discussion across Italy and beyond, especially given his form, influence, and consistency.

Every December, the Transfermarkt market-value update reshapes the economic hierarchy of Serie A. This year’s revision brought sharp rises, painful drops, and a reordering at the very top of the league. Inter remains the most valuable squad overall, despite a trophyless finish last season, while Milan benefited from several internal boosts. Younger profiles were rewarded heavily, while injuries and stagnation punished others.

Amid all of this movement, one name stood out for the wrong reasons. Despite a strong season, Christian Pulisic has been left outside Serie A’s top five most valuable players, a decision that immediately sparked backlash among fans and analysts alike.

On performance alone, Pulisic has a compelling case. He has been one of Milan’s most productive and decisive attackers, delivering goals, assists, and match-winning moments across domestic and European competition. At 27, he is firmly in his prime, combining experience with peak athletic output. Yet market value is not a pure reflection of form. It is a projection—an economic forecast influenced by age, position, resale potential, and scarcity. That distinction is where the American’s story becomes complicated.

Pulisic is valued at $66 million, placing him sixth overall in Serie A—just outside the elite top five. That number confirms that he remains one of the league’s most valuable players, and that he is priced as a finished product, not a speculative asset. In other words, Pulisic is not falling. He is being measured differently.

Who sits above Pulisic — and why

The players ahead of Pulisic reflect how modern football economics work more than how matches are won. At the very top sits Lautaro Martinez, valued at $93 million. Elite strikers in their prime are the most coveted assets in Serie A, and Lautaro’s role as a captain and focal point naturally commands a premium. Next comes Alessandro Bastoni, valued at $88 million. Left-footed, elite center-backs in their mid-20s are rare, and scarcity drives value as much as quality.

Youth inflation also plays a decisive role. Kenan Yildiz and Nico Paz are rewarded for potential, not just present impact. Their valuations are projections of future dominance rather than reflections of weekly influence. Even Rafael Leao, Pulisic’s teammate, benefits from age, physical profile, and the long-standing perception of explosive upside—despite inconsistent production.

The $66m tier: Proof over promise

Pulisic shares his valuation tier with established stars rather than rising prospects. That group represents reliability, not speculation. At 27, Pulisic’s market logic is clear. His resale window is shorter, wide attackers are more abundant, and clubs know exactly what they are buying. But that clarity is also a strength. Unlike younger names whose value is inflated by projection, Pulisic’s price is built on evidence—on seasons delivered, pressure handled, and responsibility carried.

The latest market update has produced a striking new picture: Vinicius Junior, Lamine Yamal, and Erling Haaland all make the cut—yet Kylian Mbappe does not.

The global soccer market has spoken again, and its message is both familiar and unsettling. In a landscape increasingly shaped by age curves, projection, and resale logic, reputations alone no longer guarantee a place at the very top. The latest update has produced a striking new picture: Vinicius Junior, Lamine Yamal, and Erling Haaland all make the cut—yet Kylian Mbappe does not. At first glance, it feels counterintuitive. Mbappe remains one of the most devastating forwards in the world, while the trio dominates for their respective clubs.

With Transfermarkt completing its winter evaluation across Europe’s top five leagues, a full recalibration of player values has emerged. Those numbers allow for a theoretical exercise: assembling a starting XI made up exclusively of the most valuable players in the world, chosen strictly by natural position. The rules are simple but ruthless. Players are selected based on their preferred role, and when two players share the same valuation, the younger profile gets priority. That single criterion explains much of what follows—and why some global superstars are left watching from the sidelines.

The combined value of the world’s most expensive starting XI now sits at $1.49 billion, a figure that reflects not only quality but projection. Between the posts stands Gianluigi Donnarumma, valued at $49 million. Still in his mid-20s, the goalkeeper remains one of the few “veteran” profiles in a squad otherwise tilted toward youth.

The back line tells a clear story: age and ceiling trump reputation. At full-back, Achraf Hakimi ($88 million) and Nuno Mendes ($82 million) represent the modern prototype—elite athletes who can dominate both phases of the game. In central defense, William Saliba leads the way at $99 million, partnered by Pau Cubarsi at $88 million. The exclusion of older elite defenders underlines how strongly the market now values composure, build-up ability, and long-term upside.

The midfield that defines the era and the new trident up front

The heart of this XI is where modern soccer’s economy becomes most obvious. Jude Bellingham sits at the center with a valuation of $176 million, embodying leadership, physical dominance, and versatility. Alongside him is Pedri, valued at $154 million, whose intelligence and control make him priceless in possession-based systems.

Ahead of them operates Jamal Musiala at $143 million, bridging creativity and directness in a role the modern game increasingly prizes. This trio alone accounts for $473 million, a reminder that midfielders who can dictate tempo and transition are now soccer’s most valuable currency.

The attack is where the statement becomes impossible to ignore. Leading the line is Erling Haaland, valued at $220 million. He remains the blueprint for the modern striker: physical, relentless, and statistically inevitable. To his left, Vinicius checks in at $165 million, no longer priced for flair alone but for end product, Champions League pedigree, and decisive moments.

On the right, the most eye-catching inclusion of all: Lamine Yamal, valued at $220 million. Still a teenager, His presence signals a dramatic shift in market behavior—future dominance is being priced now, not later.

The Mbappe question: Why he misses out

The absence of Kylian Mbappe is the defining talking point. Importantly, this is not a judgment on talent. Mbappe shares the same $220 million valuation as Haaland and Yamal. So why is he excluded? The answer lies in market mechanics. As per Transfermarkt, age matters more than legacy, which is why younger profiles with equal value are prioritized.

There is also the resale trajectory, which influences valuation rankings. At 26, Mbappe remains in his prime—but the market now favors players whose peak years still lie ahead. It is a subtle but powerful signal about how soccer’s economy is evolving.

Lionel Messi emerged as Inter Miami's offensive leader, leading them to their first MLS Cup. Despite this, the veteran was firmly accompanied by Tadeo Allende, who stepped up his level. However, the 26-year-old star's continuity with the Herons may be in jeopardy.

Lionel Messi has led Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup, impressing with his goal-scoring and creativity. Alongside this veteran, Tadeo Allende emerged as a key figure, showcasing his impact on scoring. In view of this, the Herons are prioritizing his continuity on the team, betting on him for the future of the team. However, the Argentine could not have his continuity on the team at all assured, having a new destination in mind.

Inter Miami have made Tadeo Allende’s continuity a priority after he emerged as a leader of the attack alongside Lionel Messi. Despite this, RC Celta, the club that owns his rights, have received a tempting offer from River Plate that brings him closer to a return to Argentina, as reported by Sebastián Srur on X. In addition, Austin FC have also emerged as a strong suitor for his services after he shined in MLS with the Herons.

After playing 54 games with the Herons, Tadeo Allende managed to score 24 goals and contribute 3 assists, being one of the most important players on the team. With this, the Argentine recovered his best version that shined at CD Godoy, after his dark period at RC Celta where he played without glory. For this reason, Inter Miami are looking to keep him in the squad but would need to make a much more imposing formal offer to extend his tenure.

Unlike River Plate, Inter Miami do not currently hold any other alternative to cover Tadeo Allende’s offense. Even if they are looking to secure a two-time Copa America winner with Argentina, he would not directly compete with Tadeo’s spot. Focusing on securing his continuity, coach Javier Mascherano just hold Telasco Segovia, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi and Mateo Silvetti in the offense. For that reason, the Herons could increase their offer to RC Celta.

Inter Miami may need an attacking boost amid Allende departure

Coach Javier Mascherano has successfully reshaped Inter Miami into one of the top offensive teams in the MLS. With Messi, Allende, and Suarez, they have excelled in scoring. However, the veteran status of the Uruguayan and Argentine stars, along with the potential departure of Tadeo, could significantly weaken the Herons’ future prospects. This situation might compel them to pursue several alternatives in the near future.

While Robert Lewandowski and Antoine Griezmann have been linked to a potential move to the Herons, both stars could become viable options by July 2026. Meanwhile, Tadeo Allende’s loan expires on December 31, 2025, prompting the team to either secure his continued presence or pursue a top-class talent in January 2026. Although Silvetti, Suarez, Segovia, and Messi could excel in the offense, Javier Mascherano might find himself short on alternatives.

With their sights set on the Concacaf Champions Cup and repeating their MLS Cup success, Inter Miami may need to bolster their offensive depth. They are looking for a substitute striker for the Uruguayan and an alternative to Allende. As the January 2026 transfer market approaches, several stars could emerge as potential candidates in the coming days.

Chris Richards began to raise concern ahead of the 2026 World Cup with the USMNT as the defender had to be stretchered off during the Arsenal vs. Crystal Palace game.

Chris Richards became a central figure Tuesday night as Arsenal hosted Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals. In what could be a concerning moment for the U.S. Men’s National Team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the Crystal Palace defender was stretchered off the field following a painful injury.

At the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal controlled much of the first half but struggled to turn possession into a breakthrough against a Palace side set up defensively. After the break, the match opened up, with both London clubs creating chances, before an injury halted play and shifted the focus away from the scoreline.

In the 69th minute, Martin Ødegaard delivered a cross toward Gabriel Jesus, who rose to challenge Richards but sent his header wide of the left post. Moments later, attention turned to Richards, who went down immediately after the play, prompting concern from Palace players and staff.

Television cameras spotted blood coming from Richards’ ankle as the center back remained on the ground in visible pain and unable to stand. Medical staff rushed onto the field to assess him before determining he could not continue.

Midfielder Will Hughes replaced Richards in the 75th minute as the defender was carried off on a stretcher and taken down the tunnel for further evaluation. No official update on the severity of the injury has been released, but the images raised immediate concern for both Crystal Palace and the USMNT with the 2026 World Cup now less than six months away.

Richards’ 2025-26 so far

After lifting the FA Cup and the Community Shield with Crystal Palace, Richards opened the 2025-26 season in strong form. With the Eagles currently three points off the European places in the Premier League, the USMNT defender has appeared in 24 matches across all competitions, starting every league game so far.

At the international level, Richards has also cemented himself as a key starter under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, featuring against South Korea, Japan, Ecuador, and Australia, before being rested during the November international window. This latest injury, however, now raises concerns that could impact the USMNT’s plans moving forward.

Christian Pulisic arrived in Saudi Arabia carrying the weight of expectation, history, and unfinished business. Instead, the Rossoneri’s title defense collapsed abruptly, triggering not only sporting consequences but also a seismic shift behind the scenes.

Christian Pulisic arrived in Saudi Arabia carrying the weight of expectation, history, and unfinished business. Milan had lifted the Italian Super Cup twelve months earlier, and the hope was that the American star could once again inspire a deep run on neutral soil. Instead, the Rossoneri’s title defense collapsed abruptly, triggering not only sporting consequences but also a seismic shift behind the scenes. In the aftermath of that failure, a dramatic statement from the top of Italian soccer has cast serious doubt over the future of the competition itself.

What unfolded in Riyadh was not just a semifinal defeat. It became a catalyst for a far bigger reckoning. Milan’s Italian Super Cup campaign ended at the first hurdle with a 2-0 defeat to Napoli at the King Saud University Stadium. Goals in each half sealed the Rossoneri’s fate, exposing structural weaknesses that had been quietly growing all season.

Massimiliano Allegri’s side created moments of promise, but missed chances proved costly, and Napoli punished every lapse. Milan, who entered the competition as reigning champions, is now left with only Serie A to salvage its season. For Christian Pulisic, the night was particularly sobering. Unlike the previous Supercoppa, where he had been decisive, this time the American could not tilt the balance. As La Gazzetta dello Sport observed, the team lacked backbone, cohesion, and cutting edge.

The defeat did more than eliminate Milan from a cup competition. It underlined serious shortcomings in squad construction. Injuries forced Allegri into uncomfortable compromises, and the absence of a reliable center-forward was equally glaring.

Even Pulisic, usually the Red and Blacks’ creative engine, was neutralized. Without support and rhythm around him, his influence faded—something that rarely happens when Milan is functioning properly. The result was a deflated team, exiting Saudi Arabia with questions rather than answers. For the Saudi audience, the spectacle was competitive—but sparse. And that detail would soon matter.

The revelation that changes everything

Amid the fallout, Ezio Simonelli, President of Lega Serie A, dropped a bombshell during an interview with Sky Italia. Speaking candidly about the Supercoppa’s future, Simonelli finally confirmed what many had suspected. “Next year, it won’t be in Saudi Arabia, and perhaps we’ll return to the old format,” he said.

Thus, it has now been confirmed that the 2026 edition will not be held in Saudi Arabia, potentially ending the seven-year run of expanded, overseas tournaments. Instead, Serie A is considering a return to the traditional single-match Super Cup between the Scudetto winner and Coppa Italia winner.

Why Serie A is rethinking the Supercoppa

The move comes after mounting criticism. Attendance figures in Saudi Arabia for Italian matches averaged under 10,000 fans per game, a stark contrast to Spain’s Super Cup events in the same country, which regularly draw crowds exceeding 50,000. Fans and pundits alike have questioned whether commercial gain has come at the expense of atmosphere, identity, and prestige.

Milan’s limp semi-final performance only amplified those concerns. Supporters have also been divided. Some welcome the return to tradition, calling the overseas format “embarrassing.” Others remain skeptical, wary that financial pressures could eventually override sentiment.

Portugal national team head coach Roberto Martinez spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to face the second half of the season, which will conclude with the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Expectations around the Portugal national team ahead of the tournament are enormous, and head coach Roberto Martinez addressed the role of the veteran forward.

During an interview with Marca, Martinez was asked why Ronaldo remains an undisputed figure in the national team despite his advanced age. “His attitude,” the coach began. “That maximum level of demand he places on himself to be available and to help is what allows the team captain to always be included in the squad.”

Cristiano Ronaldo will turn 41 on February 5, an unusually advanced age for an elite international player. And yet, he continues to show a high level of commitment and motivation every time he plays for Portugal, whether in crucial matches such as World Cup qualifiers and the UEFA Nations League, or in friendlies.

“That hunger to be the best is transmitted on the field. It’s contagious… He’s at a very good moment in his career,” the coach said. Those words are backed up by the numbers: since Martinez took over as head coach, Cristiano Ronaldo has appeared in 30 of Portugal’s 36 matches.

Cristiano Ronaldo shows his commitment through goals

Over nearly three years under Roberto Martinez, Cristiano Ronaldo has not only demonstrated his commitment by featuring in almost every national team match, but has also delivered outstanding performances.

“Twenty-five goals in 30 matches playing as a ‘number nine’ shows that what he does on the field generates a lot for the national team,” Martinez reflected in the same interview. “Cristiano affects the opponent. When he’s on the field, space opens up because there are always two players focused on marking him.”

Finally, the coach addressed the records Ronaldo could break—particularly the milestone of 1,000 career goals—if he maintains his current approach. “What he has achieved is because he lives day to day. When he talks about his goals, he moves far away from the long term: from reaching 1,000, from playing a certain number of matches,” Martinez explained. “His secret is being the best today and enjoying the present. Then the number will simply be a consequence of the day he decides to stop. I don’t think it’s a goal.”

Ronaldo’s longevity

If nothing unexpected happens in the coming months, Cristiano Ronaldo will become the first player—likely alongside Lionel Messi—to appear in six World Cups. That remarkable achievement will be accompanied by another notable detail: he would do so at 41 years old, an extremely rare age at that level of competition.

In fact, Cristiano Ronaldo would become the fourth-oldest player in World Cup history. At 41 years and 126 days, he would trail only Essam El Hadary of Egypt (45 years, 161 days), Faryd Mondragon of Colombia (43 years, 3 days), and Roger Milla of Cameroon (42 years, 39 days).

As the road to the 2026 World Cup sharpens, Karim Benzema and Endrick have suddenly found their stories intertwined once more—this time through a bold winter move that has sent shockwaves from Madrid to France.

The soccer world has a way of turning childhood inspirations into full-circle moments. As the road to the 2026 World Cup sharpens, Karim Benzema and Endrick have suddenly found their stories intertwined once more—this time through a bold winter move that has sent shockwaves from Madrid to France. What truly caught the public’s eye, however, was a short, explosive reaction from Benzema to Endrick’s loan switch, a response that said far more than its length suggested.

For the Brazilian teenager, this is not just another transfer. It is a strategic step shaped by ambition, timing, and a looming global stage. Long before Endrick pulled on a white shirt in Madrid, he was a teenager in Brazil studying highlights of Benzema’s early career in France. In a 2023 interview with L’Equipe, the forward described the kind of striker he aspired to become.

“I’m a number nine with the soul of a number ten. I’ve loved Benzema since he played for Lyon… his playing style inspires me a lot,” the young star said. Those words now read like a blueprint. Lyon was the club where Benzema blended goalscoring with intelligence, movement, and playmaking—traits Endrick has always admired. Two years later, that admiration has turned into imitation, as the Brazilian prepares to walk the same path.

The six-month loan deal sending Endrick from Real Madrid to Olympique Lyonnais is rooted in pragmatism rather than sentiment. At Bernabeu, opportunities have been limited. Under Xabi Alonso, He managed just three appearances and 99 minutes this season, a sharp contrast to the expectations that followed his high-profile arrival from Palmeiras. With competition fierce and patience thin at the top level, regular minutes became a priority.

For Lyon, the timing is ideal. The club lost key attacking figures in recent windows and has struggled to find consistency in the number nine role. Internally, Foot Mercato reports that staff have been “delighted with the signing of this talented player,” viewing Endrick as the missing piece to energize the attack in Ligue 1 and the Europa League. The agreement includes a $1.1 million loan fee, a shared salary arrangement, and no option to buy, underlining Madrid’s belief that Endrick remains central to their long-term plans.

What did Benzema say?

When the move became official, reactions poured in across social media. Many current Madrid players expressed mixed emotions, reluctant to see a popular figure leave the dressing room. One former Madrid icon, however, embraced the move wholeheartedly.

Benzema, now starring in the Saudi Pro League, left a brief but emphatic comment on Endrick’s announcement post—“Let’s go”—accompanied by a fire emoji. Those two words carried weight. Lyon was where Benzema himself debuted professionally, where his identity as a complete forward was forged. For Endrick, receiving that endorsement felt like a symbolic passing of the torch.

World Cup lens on every decision

At the heart of this move lies a singular objective: the 2026 World Cup. Brazil’s squad will be fiercely competitive, and Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that reputation alone will not secure selection. Match sharpness, form, and continuity will matter.

Endrick understands this reality. By moving to Lyon, he positions himself to play regularly, wear the iconic No. 9 shirt, and shoulder responsibility rather than wait patiently on the bench. French regulations mean he will debut after a short registration delay, but expectations are already building.

Lyon sits fifth in Ligue 1 and leads its Europa League group, offering a platform that balances pressure with opportunity. It is an environment well-suited to a young striker seeking rhythm and confidence.

After drawing the interest of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool, $88M star Antoine Semenyo has reportedly made a final decision on his future.

Antoine Semenyo has emerged as one of the most coveted players in the Premier League, with a release clause that has made him an attractive target for several elite clubs. After drawing interest from Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool, the $88 million-rated forward has reportedly reached a final decision regarding his future.

Bournemouth endured several key departures at the start of the 2025-26 season, including Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, and Illia Zabarnyi, while Semenyo remained with the squad. It has since been revealed that the Ghana international has a £65 million (approximately $88 million) release clause set to expire on January 10, a detail that has fueled interest from Premier League heavyweights eager to activate it.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Antoine Semenyo is keen on completing a move to Manchester City. While Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool all expressed interest, the 24-year-old forward has reportedly decided that Pep Guardiola’s side represents his preferred destination.

City have held ongoing talks with Semenyo’s camp as they work toward a deal. With Ghana failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, Semenyo is expected to remain available for Bournemouth’s upcoming matches against Brentford on December 27 and Chelsea on December 30. Meanwhile, City are reportedly preparing to complete the formal steps of the transfer once the winter window opens.

How did United, Chelsea, and Liverpool miss out on Semenyo?

With an expiring release clause, Semenyo was viewed as a prime opportunity for top clubs to secure a Premier League-proven forward, currently ranking as the third among the league’s top scorers with eight goals, making him an appealing target for teams in need of attacking reinforcements. Despite interest from several clubs, Manchester City ultimately moved ahead of the competition.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea contacted Bournemouth to inquire about the conditions of a potential deal but showed less concrete intent than their rivals. Liverpool had been monitoring Semenyo since November, even considering him as a contingency option amid uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak’s recent injury, but ultimately failed to make meaningful progress.

Manchester United appeared to push hardest for Semenyo, advancing discussions with the player’s representatives. However, with the Red Devils focused on restructuring their wage bill and City presenting a more attractive sporting project for Semenyo, Ruben Amorim’s side ultimately fell behind, allowing the Citizens to gain the upper hand.

Pedri addressed the rumors surrounding a potential return of Lionel Messi to Barcelona.

Speculation about a possible return of Lionel Messi to Barcelona has intensified in recent weeks following a visit the Argentine forward made to Camp Nou. Now Pedri, one of the Spanish club’s biggest stars, has addressed the situation publicly.

During a recent interview with Esquire, Pedri was asked how he learned about Messi’s visit to Barcelona during the November international break, when the forward traveled to Spain with the Argentina national team. “Through social media, because it started showing up everywhere. It was hard not to find out,” the midfielder explained.

The Spanish player then expressed his regret at not being able to see Messi in person. “I wish we could have spent some time together,” he said, while acknowledging that he has not spoken with Leo for quite some time. The two were teammates between 2020 and 2021.

Pedri was later asked whether he would like a second spell alongside Messi at Barcelona before the Argentine forward retires. “Of course, without a doubt,” he said, before offering high praise for Leo. “He’s the best in history, and he helped me a lot during the year we played together.”

Messi and Pedri shared a brief spell together

Pedri joined Barcelona in the summer of 2020 at just 17 years old after breaking through at Las Palmas. At the time, Lionel Messi was the undisputed star of the Catalan side and was preparing to begin what would be his final season at the club.

Throughout the 2020–21 campaign, Pedri earned a regular place in the team despite his young age, giving him the opportunity to play extensively alongside the Argentine legend. In total, they shared 47 matches across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the UEFA Champions League, and the Spanish Super Cup. Together, Messi and Pedri combined for three goals that season and lifted the Copa del Rey trophy.

Pedri sees a possible clash against Messi at the World Cup

In the same Esquire interview, Pedri also discussed his expectations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Spain will arrive as one of the main contenders. “Winning a World Cup is always very difficult; there are great national teams,” he began. “Argentina will be there, the reigning champions. And also England, Germany, France, and Brazil, who are always strong. But we are strong too.”

Finally, Pedri mentioned the players he would like to face at the FIFA tournament next summer. “Mbappe, Lamine, Salah, Haaland, Raphinha, or Julian Alvarez are the best players in the world. I want to play against all of them—except Lamine, because he’s on our team,” the Spanish midfielder said. “Especially Haaland and Salah, because I haven’t faced them yet.”

Beyond the possibility of meeting at the World Cup, Spain are already set to face Messi’s Argentina in the near future. On Friday, March 27, the two national teams will contest the 2026 Finalissima in Doha, Qatar, competing for the intercontinental title between the champions of Europe and South America.

With Mohamed Salah's future uncertain, Liverpool have started exploring the market for a potential replacement. Although they had already identified a target, Manchester City push to secure his arrival in January 2026, prompting doubts on his arrival to the Reds.

Mohamed Salah appears to have one foot out of Liverpool, as he no longer seems guaranteed a key role under Arne Slot. With his departure remaining a looming possibility, the Reds have turned their attention to finding a potential replacement in the market. While they seemed to have identified an ideal option, Manchester City have fast-tracked the player’s arrival in January 2026, leaving any potential move to Anfield shrouded in uncertainty.

During the 2025–26 season, Liverpool identified Antoine Semenyo as their primary target to potentially replace Mohamed Salah. However, Manchester United and Manchester City have aggressively joined the race for the African forward. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Citizens have intensified their efforts to secure the early acquisition of the 25-year-old winger in record time, leaving the Reds as mere spectators.

After excelling with AFC Bournemouth, Semenyo has clearly expressed his desire to leave the club during the January 2026 winter transfer window. With a €65 million release clause valid until January 10, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Manchester United are all ready to meet it to secure his services. However, the African forward prioritizes his role in the lineup and the team’s ambitions when making his decision, which could give Pep Guardiola a certain advantage.

Joining Salah’s uncertain future, Alexander Isak’s long-term injury leaves serious concerns about the depth in Liverpool’s offense. Considering Semenyo’s affordable release clause, his arrival could have bolstered their level due to his versatility, speed, and defensive work rate. Shifting from main pursuer to just monitoring his situation, the Reds might have to hold onto the Egyptian until the end of the season, losing Antoine to Manchester United or Manchester City.

Salah replacement at Liverpool might be much closer than expected

Mohamed Salah is open to leaving Liverpool in January 2026 or, at the latest, in June 2026. In response, the Reds are actively searching for a replacement for the Egyptian star. However, their lack of urgency in securing Antoine Semenyo has caused some confusion. Interestingly, they might have found Salah’s successor closer to home, with a potential arrival during the winter transfer window.

According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Harvey Elliott is close to returning to Liverpool from his loan spell at Aston Villa. Despite arriving at the Villains with high expectations, head coach Unai Emery has not relied on him, increasing the chances of the Englishman returning to the Reds. Having shone in previous seasons as a right winger, this could be his best opportunity to convince Arne Slot not to sign a replacement and instead back his continuity.

In a recent press conference, Arne Slot stated that Elliott remains an Aston Villa player and is expected to stay there for the remainder of the season. Nonetheless, dissatisfaction within Liverpool’s front office regarding his limited involvement could facilitate his return to the team. Slot faces the decision of either relying on Elliott or sending him out on loan again. Yet, Elliott could secure his spot by proving his worth to Slot.

Now struggling to get minutes at Parma, Bennjamin Cremaschi opened up on his decision of leaving Lionel Messi's Inter Miami in 2025.

Benjamin Cremaschi has been one of Inter Miami’s top prospects in recent years, but a lack of consistent minutes under head coach Javier Mascherano ultimately led to his departure. Six months after leaving the club, the midfielder has now opened up about his decision to move on from Lionel Messi’s side and join Italian first-division outfit Parma.

After seeing limited playing time during the first half of the 2025 MLS season, Cremaschi emerged as a potential departure during the summer transfer window. The arrival of Rodrigo De Paul further complicated his path to minutes, and Parma ultimately completed his signing on a one-year loan.

Speaking with Argentine outlet Diario Olé, Cremaschi explained his decision to leave Inter Miami in the middle of the season. “I felt that I needed to take this step. I needed to try and see whether I have the level to play in a top European league,” he said. He also highlighted Parma’s vision as a key factor in the move. “It’s a project that is very focused on young players. I feel this is the right place for me, and that I’ve been learning a lot since I arrived.”

The midfielder also pointed out the contrast between MLS and European soccer: “The first thing I understood here is the speed. It’s a bit faster and also more aggressive. They focus a lot on defensive shape and attacking transitions. I need to understand all of that better and be attentive to what’s happening around me.“

So far, Cremaschi’s first months in Europe have not gone as planned, as the midfielder has logged just 100 minutes across three appearances. He also left the club for international duty with the U.S. U-20 national team during the World Cup between September and October, and over Parma’s last four Serie A matches, he has remained on the bench as an unused substitute.

Still, Cremaschi remains confident he can turn the situation around in the second half of the 2025-26 season. “So far, I can’t complain about anything. I just have to keep working to get the minutes and the opportunities I want. There’s a lot to learn, but I consider myself a quick learner, and I hope everything comes soon,” he concluded.

Cremaschi looking for an Inter Miami comeback?

Despite his pursuit of more minutes, Cremaschi’s long-term future at Parma remains uncertain. The Italian club signed him on a loan deal that runs through June 2026, with a reported €4.5 million purchase option, but the midfielder has left the door open to a potential return to Fort Lauderdale.

In a recent interview with CBS Sports following Inter Miami’s MLS Cup victory, Cremaschi reflected on the club’s win over the Vancouver Whitecaps. “I watched the match here in my apartment. It was a very exciting game,” he stated, while also admitting doing a FaceTime with David Ruiz. “Super happy for the owners, for the coach, for all my teammates and the Academy kids. Honestly, just everyone. The staff, the entire club—it’s a huge achievement.“

Cremaschi closed with a comment that, despite his current stint in Europe, sparked speculation about a future reunion with Inter Miami: “I wish I had been there. Unfortunately, I wasn’t. I guess I’ll have to come back in the future and get another one.”

Robert Lewandowski's future has been in serious doubt during the 2025-26 season due to his declining performances and injuries. Additionally, Barcelona have reportedly decided to pursue the renewal of a striker within the team, hinting at the Pole's future with the club.

Robert Lewandowski has cemented his status as one of Barcelona’s top players, consistently demonstrating his impressive goal-scoring prowess. However, injuries and a dip in form have cast doubt on his long-term future with the club. Meanwhile, Barcelona are focusing on the contract renewal of another forward in the squad, providing hints about their plans for the Polish striker as they look ahead to the summer of 2026.

While the Polish striker’s renewal appears to be stalled and talks are reportedly being postponed until January 2026, Barcelona have accelerated the contract extension of Ferran Torres. According to Jordi Gil of Diario Sport, the club aims to reach an agreement to secure the 25-year-old’s continuity before the end of the 2025–26 season, as he approaches the final year of his contract, turning him into their starter striker.

Having Ferran Torres positioned as the main striker, Lewandowski might have to accept a rotation role and a salary reduction to stay with the team. Despite having several offers from other teams to be a key star, the veteran remains open to accepting Barcelona’s terms to continue with the team, reports Diario Sport. Nonetheless, the team is still exploring several other alternatives for the striker, hinting at the potential departure of the Polish player as a free agent.

Ferran Torres wins the battle of Lewandowski’s pulse at Barcelona

Robert Lewandowski entered the 2025–26 season as the clear favorite to be Barcelona’s starting striker. After scoring 27 goals, the Pole secured his position as LaLiga’s second-highest scorer. However, an early injury opened the door for Ferran Torres to step into a more prominent scoring role. Torres not only seized the opportunity but also claimed the starting spot, putting the veteran’s future at the club in question.

Ferran Torres has convinced Hansi Flick to make him Barcelona’s first-choice center forward. With 13 goals in 22 matches, the Spaniard has surprised everyone by outperforming Robert Lewandowski, who has scored 8 goals in 18 games. In addition, the 25-year-old star provides a defensive work rate and pressing ability that perfectly fit the team’s needs. Even so, the veteran’s potential stay at the club as an alternative option appears to be gaining momentum.

Ansu Fati may return to Barcelona, impacting Lewandowski’s future

Robert Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona may be influenced by Ansu Fati‘s imminent return to the team. According to Romain Molina, AS Monaco have opted not to activate the purchase option for the young Spaniard, meaning he will rejoin the Culers after the 2025-26 season. Fati, who has a contract with Barcelona until 2028, could remain with the club due to a lack of interest from other teams, which might affect the possible retention of Lewandowski.

Should Barcelona struggle to find a new team for Ansu Fati, coach Hansi Flick might utilize him as a backup for Ferran Torres. He could focus on regaining his top form through progressive development within the squad, potentially diminishing the need for Lewandowski. Despite this, the veteran striker offers reliability, while Fati’s ongoing physical challenges continue to cast doubt, potentially sparking an internal debate within the club.

Christian Pulisic’s AC Milan have agreed to part ways with a player from their roster who was a UEFA Champions League winner.

AC Milan are making significant changes to their roster to approach the second half of the season with renewed energy. Among these changes is the departure of a UEFA Champions League winner, who will no longer be a teammate of Christian Pulisic and must find a new club.

“Divock Origi, available as a free agent from January as he’s just signed his contract termination at AC Milan,” reported journalist Fabrizio Romano on his X account. “30-year-old striker was out of AC Milan squad and project since summer 2024.”

The Belgian striker joined the club in the summer of 2022 from Liverpool on a four-year contract. In his first Serie A season, he played 36 matches and scored just two goals, leading the Italian side to loan him to Nottingham Forest.

Origi’s stint in England was also disappointing, as he could not replicate the performances he had during his time at Liverpool, where he won the 2018-19 UEFA Champions League with a scoring average of 0.33 goals per game.

Origi’s fall from favor

Several consecutive seasons of poor performance left Divock Origi in an undesirable position. He returned to AC Milan ahead of the 2024-25 season but was not considered part of the main squad, instead being relegated to the reserve team.

As a result, Origi spent the past year and a half without official competition at club level. His last professional match was on April 21, 2024, in a 2-0 Premier League defeat for Nottingham Forest against Everton. His last official goal came on February 7 of that year, when he scored in the FA Cup against Bristol City.

AC Milan move for other strikers

Despite recent issues with their forwards, including Santiago Gimenez’s injury, bringing Divock Origi back was never an option for head coach Massimiliano Allegri. In this scenario, the Italian side have recently advanced negotiations for German striker Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham United.

Another forward could join in the coming days. “AC Milan have agreed personal terms with talented striker Andrej Kostic from Partizan Belgrade,” Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X on Tuesday. “Club-to-club talks well underway to get the deal done under €5m package, add-ons included.”

Ahead of the return of the Saudi Pro League, Cristiano Ronaldo has been hit with an injury of an Al Nassr squad.

Cristiano Ronaldo is nearing his official return to action with the Saudi Pro League restart approaching. However, the Portuguese star has been dealt a setback, as a key Al Nassr player has picked up an injury and will be unavailable for the upcoming fixtures.

Al Nassr are set to return to the pitch against Iraqi side Al Zawraa in the AFC Champions League Two on Wednesday, a match in which Ronaldo is again expected to be rested, as has been the case throughout the competition. With the SPL resuming on Saturday, December 27, against Al Okhood on Matchday 11, the club will be without one of its regular starters in both competitions.

According to Saudi outlet Al Riyadhiah, Mohamed Simakan suffered a hamstring injury during Monday’s training session and is expected to be sidelined for up to four weeks. The French defender has been a key presence at center back alongside Iñigo Martínez, leaving head coach Jorge Jesus with decisions to make at the heart of the defense.

Reports indicate that Simakan will begin an intensive rehabilitation program in hopes of returning as quickly as possible. Based on the projected recovery timeline, he is expected to miss Al Nassr’s AFC Champions League Two clash with Al Zawraa, as well as league matches against Al Okhood, Al Ettifaq, Al Ahli, Al Qadsiah, and Al Hilal.

The defender, who joined Al Nassr on a permanent €45 million transfer in 2025 after a one-year loan spell, has become one of the cornerstones of the squad. Simakan has appeared in 15 matches across all competitions during the 2025-26 season, logging 1,084 minutes and scoring two goals.

Ronaldo eager to continue Al Nassr’s strong run

Following the high-profile additions of João Félix, Barcelona’s Iñigo Martínez, and Kingsley Coman, Al Nassr’s new leadership set out to build a squad capable of competing for the Saudi Pro League title around Ronaldo. So far, the project under Jorge Jesus has raised expectations, with the team enjoying a flawless start to the campaign.

Through nine matches in the 2025–26 SPL season, Al Nassr have won all nine, sitting atop the table with 27 points, being four clear of second-place Al Hilal. Ronaldo’s side not only leads the league in goals scored with 30, averaging more than three per game, but also boasts the league’s best defensive record with just five goals conceded, combining attacking firepower with defensive solidity.

Cristiano Ronaldo has set his sights on the 2026 World Cup, with Portugal entering as one of the clear favorites. However, the future for one of the national team's best players could hold unexpected developments, including a potential surprise move to Real Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo is experiencing an outstanding period with Portugal, having won two UEFA Nations League titles and solidifying the team as a top contender heading into the 2026 World Cup. The roster brims with star players. In this context, one of Ronaldo’s closest teammates might be on the verge of a surprising club change, as reports suggest he could move to Real Madrid as a free agent at the end of the season.

Rúben Neves has firmly established himself as one of Al Hilal’s standout players, consistently delivering impressive performances. However, the Portuguese midfielder’s contract runs until June 2026, and former player Sami Al-Jaber speculates that Neves might move to Real Madrid. “I fear that Neves will move from Al Hilal to Real Madrid for free when his contract with the team ends at the end of this season,” he said, via MBC channel.

While Al-Jaber anticipates his potential move to Real Madrid, he also notes that other teams are vying for his signature. “There are Premier League clubs that want to sign Neves, and the contracts they are offering him are for three years, meaning until he turns 31. There is Real Madrid, and I am sure there are other clubs.” Although Neves could leave as a free agent, he remains open to departing in January 2026, which would bring a financial return for Al Hilal.

As a player with a profile quite similar to Federico Valverde, his potential arrival at Real Madrid might not be very logical. The Spanish side is not looking for a box-to-box profile; instead, they are seeking a creative midfielder akin to Toni Kroos, which Rúben Neves does not offer. Furthermore, no Spanish outlet has reported interest from Los Blancos, in contrast to some Premier League sides that have maintained their interest in the Portuguese star.

Ruben Neves could emerge as a key star at Manchester United

Despite Rúben Neves choosing to move to Saudi Arabia in 2023, the Portuguese midfielder has remained a pivotal player for Al Hilal and continues to shine with the national team. Since his arrival, the 28-year-old star has played a critical role in securing four trophies for the club. In this context, a move to Manchester United could be the perfect opportunity for him to return to Europe’s elite at the right age.

According to CaughtOffSide, Manchester United have been monitoring Rúben Neves for several years. His non-contract renewal with Al Hilal has rekindled the Red Devils’ interest in him, viewing him as an ideal contender to compete with Casemiro for a midfield position. After his impressive performances at Wolverhampton, the Portuguese international has attracted strong interest not only from United but also from several other English clubs.

As Christian Pulisic watched from the outside, players such as Ousmane Dembele, Lamine Yamal, and Kylian Mbappe all made the cut—fueling debate over one of the most controversial omissions of the year.

Christian Pulisic’s name has become impossible to ignore in 2025. Week after week, he has delivered goals, match-winning moments, and consistency at club level, while remaining a central figure for his national side. And yet, when soccer’s most talked-about annual rankings were released, the Milan star was nowhere to be found. As Christian Pulisic watched from the outside, players such as Ousmane Dembele, Lamine Yamal, and Kylian Mbappe all made the cut—fueling debate over one of the most controversial omissions of the year.

The exclusion has sparked strong reactions not only among supporters but also across broader discussions about reputation, geography, and how elite performance is ultimately measured.

Every year, The Guardian publishes its list of the 100 best male players in the world, a ranking compiled by a 219-person international jury of former players, coaches, analysts, and journalists. It is designed as a retrospective assessment of impact, quality, and influence across the calendar year.

This year, that jury once again delivered a list stacked with household names from Europe’s top leagues. Dembele topped the ranking, narrowly ahead of Yamal, while Mbappe, Harry Kane, Mohamed Salah, and Erling Haaland all featured prominently. What stunned many observers, however, was the absence of Pulisic—despite what has widely been regarded as the strongest year of his professional career.

Christian Pulisic’s case: Numbers, moments, silverware

The argument for Pulisic’s inclusion is not built on sentiment, but on output. In 2025, Pulisic finished the year with 18 goals and seven assists across all competitions, totaling 25 goal contributions before the holiday period. Those numbers came while playing in multiple roles, often carrying significant responsibility in attack.

Crucially, he also delivered on the biggest stages. The American led Milan to January’s Italian Super Cup glory, scoring in both the semi-finals and the final to secure the club’s first Super Cup title since 2016. That trophy remains the Rossoneri’s only piece of silverware this calendar year—making his contributions decisive rather than decorative.

Even as injuries disrupted parts of his current season, the 27-year-old has still emerged as one of Serie A’s most efficient forwards. He sits second in the league’s top goalscorer race, trailing only Inter’s Lautaro Martinez by a single goal heading into the final fixtures of the year.

Where the list actually fell

As a result, it’s merely surprising that Pulisic did not place anywhere in The Guardian’s Top 100 for 2025. Not 90th. Not 100th. Not even an honorable mention. Meanwhile, teammates and peers with less statistical impact did make the list. Rafael Leao, Pulisic’s club teammate, was included. Antoine Griezmann, despite a comparatively modest year for Atletico, also featured. Even players such as Antony and Mason Greenwood found space in the rankings. Perhaps more striking still: no United States men’s national team player made the list at all.

To understand the controversy, context matters. According to The Guardian, judges were asked to rank 40 players each, awarding points from 40 down to one. All votes were combined, with safeguards in place to mitigate the influence of extreme outliers.

“Considering our 219 judges handed out a total of 179,580 points, it shows how close this year’s ranking was,” the publication explained. Former stars such as Romário and Philipp Lahm were among the voters, lending authority—but also reinforcing the reality that the panel remains heavily Europe-centric.

As the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup sharpens into focus, teammates are beginning to articulate what sets him apart. One of them has now described Pulisic in revealing detail, offering insight into how his influence could shape the tournament on home soil.

Christian Pulisic has reached a point in his career where reputation is no longer built on potential, but on responsibility. At a club level with Milan and on the international stage with the United States, he has become the reference point others measure themselves against. As the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup sharpens into focus, teammates are beginning to articulate what sets him apart. One of them has now described Pulisic in revealing detail, offering insight into how his influence could shape the tournament on home soil.

While discussions around leadership often focus on speeches and armbands, the picture emerging from inside the dressing room tells a more nuanced story. The 27-year-old forward’s role with Milan has evolved significantly in recent seasons, and that growth has mirrored his standing with the United States men’s national team. No longer just the prodigy or creative spark, he has become a stabilizing force—someone teammates instinctively follow.

That reality was laid bare when Daryl Dike spoke openly about his international teammate during an appearance on the Beast Mode On podcast. Dike’s comments offered a rare inside look at how Pulisic operates behind the scenes. “Christian’s good because he’s just a professional,” he explained. What stood out was not volume, but consistency. Pulisic, according to Dike, does not dominate conversations in the way some captains do.

Instead, his authority comes from habits that never waver—on the training pitch, in matches, and in how he treats people. Midway through the conversation, Dike distilled Pulisic’s influence into a simple phrase that explains everything about his leadership style. “You can see what he does – he leads by example,” Dike said.

Those four words unlocked the meaning behind Pulisic’s growing stature. Whether it is relentless defensive work in training or finding solutions under pressure in matches, his actions speak louder than instructions ever could. Dike elaborated further: “Even in training, defensively, he is running all over the place. Offensively, you know he can always find a way to get us out of things.”

Respect earned, not demanded

Beyond performance, Dike emphasized how Pulisic carries himself within the group. The respect he commands is not enforced—it is automatic. “Everybody respects him and looks up to him,” Dike said. “He has a lot of weight on his shoulders because he is that guy. He’s only 27, and he is that guy. But he’s such a humble guy, he’s such a good guy, and it shows on the pitch.”

Perhaps most telling was Dike’s observation about equality. Pulisic, despite his status, treats every teammate the same. “If anybody did have the license to treat someone differently, it would be him,” Dike noted. “He doesn’t. He’s a very good person, professional—and there’s a reason he wears the armband for the country.”

Milan form fueling international belief

Pulisic’s performances in Italy have reinforced that leadership. Under Massimiliano Allegri, he has found consistency and rhythm, becoming one of Serie A’s most productive attackers. Seven goals and two assists in just ten league matches underline a player operating at peak efficiency.

The system allows him to drift between lines, attack space rather than hug the touchline, and conserve energy for decisive moments. While Milan’s season has not been flawless—highlighted by setbacks in domestic cup competition—Pulisic remains their most reliable difference-maker.

Those habits translate directly to the international stage. When space opens up, he punishes opponents. When it closes, he keeps working, waiting for the next moment to influence the game. With the World Cup coming to the United States, expectations will be unprecedented. Pressure will be intense, scrutiny constant, and margins thin. In that environment, personalities matter as much as tactics.

AC Milan have failed to establish themselves as a dominant team in Italy. Despite the imposing level of Christian Pulisic, the roster lacks sufficient quality in bench depth. Given this, the Rossoneri are targeting two Juventus stars ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Christian Pulisic has emerged as the undisputed leader of AC Milan this season. While his contributions have been impressive, the team has struggled to maintain dominance in Italy, highlighting weaknesses in their roster. With this in mind, the Rossoneri are already aiming to strengthen their lineup for the 2026-27 season, identifying two Juventus players as potential reinforcements for coach Massimiliano Allegri.

According to reports by Mirco Guidi in La Gazzetta dello Sport, Massimiliano Allegri is strongly considering the possible addition of Dušan Vlahović to AC Milan ahead of the 2026–27 season. Sharing the same agent as recent signing Andrej Kostić, the striker could be a strong option for the Rossoneri, as he could join on a free transfer, with the coach aiming to bring out his best version next to Christian Pulisic at the offense.

Far from ending there, AC Milan are also monitoring the possible addition of Federico Gatti from Juventus FC, reports Gianluca Di Marzio. Despite being under contract until 2030, the Vecchia Signora are willing to part ways with the Italian defender, who has failed to establish himself as a regular starter and suffered a meniscus injury in early December 2025. That said, both parties have yet to sit down for formal talks regarding a potential move.

Even though neither Dusan nor Federico are regarded as main stars at Juventus, their potential arrival comes with a low-price tag. The striker could join as a free agent, and the defender is out of the current project. With this in mind, coach Massimiliano Allegri could bolster the roster’s depth with proven-quality players capable of delivering an immediate impact, thereby enhancing Pulisic’s performances with solid teammates who have already excelled in Serie A.

AC Milan ready to sell recent stellar signing after Füllkrug arrival

AC Milan remain keen on upgrading their roster for the 2026–27 season while staying open to potential changes in January 2026. The search for a center back is a top priority, but the arrival of Niclas Füllkrug has prompted some shifts within the Italian side. Amid these changes and new offensive signings, the Rossoneri are reportedly considering selling a player who joined as a star in the summer of 2025.

According to reports from Daniele Longo, Sky Sports, and La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are open to offloading Christopher Nkunku, who arrived this season for €37 million. His underwhelming performance, coupled with the addition of Füllkrug and Andrej Kostić, has led the club to ask his agent to explore offers for a permanent sale. However, they are also open to a loan move. This strategy aims to create space to strengthen the roster.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami have reportedly agreed to the signing of an Argentine defender who was also targeted by South American giants River Plate.

Amid intense negotiations to shape the 2026 roster, Inter Miami reportedly prevailed over a South American powerhouse and secured the signing of another Argentine player to join Lionel Messi.

Racing Club defender Facundo Mura had been on Inter Miami’s radar for weeks, but the negotiations appeared to hit an unexpected obstacle when River Plate from Argentina expressed interest in signing him. However, the situation seems to have ended positively for the MLS side.

“Facundo Mura thanked River for their interest but will play for Inter Miami,” said transfer expert Cesar Luis Merlo on Tuesday in a post on his X account. “The defender will sign a contract through June 2029.”

For Javier Mascherano’s team, Mura represents an important addition. Despite being only 26 years old, he is an experienced player, having accumulated nearly 200 professional appearances in the Argentine league with Estudiantes, Colon, and Racing Club. In the 2025 season, he played 34 matches, scoring 4 goals and providing one assist.

Additionally, the terms of the signing are extremely favorable for Inter Miami, as Mura’s contract with Racing Club expires on December 31. This allows him to join the MLS side as a free agent, saving Inter Miami the effort and cost of negotiating with another club.

Inter Miami’s defense taking shape

Among the departures following Inter Miami’s MLS title win, Jordi Alba stood out, though he was not the only one. Alongside the Spanish star, who announced his retirement, Marcelo Weigandt also left, returning to Boca Juniors after his loan ended.

To replace Alba, Inter Miami acted quickly and secured the signing of another European star, Sergio Reguilon. At right-back, they extended Ian Fray’s contract, and with the reported addition of Mura, that area of the field now appears well-covered.

The question remains whether Inter Miami will pursue a top-level center-back to boost internal competition. Maximiliano Falcon was the standout in that position, but his colleagues—Gonzalo Lujan, Noah Allen, and Tomas Aviles—did not perform at the same convincing level.

Another player with international experience

Since Lionel Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami have signed many Spanish-speaking players with international experience to support the forward. Facundo Mura fits this profile, as he is another Argentine with a youth international credentials.

While Mura has not played for the senior national team, he represented Argentina at youth levels. He was part of the squad at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup alongside stars like Julian Alvarez, exiting in the round of 16. In 2020, he won the Pre-Olympic tournament with Argentina U-23, earning qualification for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, though he was not called up for the Olympic squad.

Arsenal and Crystal Palace clash in the 2025/26 Carabao Cup quarterfinals. Fans in the United States can watch every moment live on TV or via streaming platforms, with multiple viewing options available.

Match Overview

A spotlight Carabao Cup showdown features two Premier League contenders with ambitions well beyond domestic league play, as table-topping Arsenal look to keep their multi-competition push on track against a surging Crystal Palace side.

Mikel Arteta’s squad has made this tournament a clear focus during an all-in campaign, but the challenge is steep against Palace, who arrive full of confidence after a landmark 2025 highlighted by FA Cup and Community Shield success, setting the stage for a high-intensity clash.

Alexander Isak has not been at his best this season with Liverpool, delivering several disappointing performances. Additionally, the Swedish striker suffered a significant injury, prompting Arne Slot to make some blunt remarks on Micky van de Ven's foul that caused Isak's injury.

Although Liverpool fell into a slump, they have managed to bounce back in recent games, racking up three consecutive victories. Along with the defensive improvement, the Reds have taken a step forward offensively, thanks to Hugo Ekitike’s impressive scoring ability. However, Alexander Isak is not having his best start in the team, accumulating poor performances along with a serious injury. Arne Slot was quite forceful towards Tottenham Hotspur star Micky van de Ven.

In Liverpool’s recent victory over Tottenham Hotspur, Alexander Isak opened the scoring, suggesting a return to his top form. However, in the 57th minute, Micky van de Ven executed a strong tackle on the Swedish forward, resulting in a fibula fracture that forced Isak out of the game. He underwent surgery on Monday, December 22, and will be sidelined for several months, leaving the Reds without a replacement.

At the last press conference, coach Arne Slot was quite blunt towards Micky van de Ven’s foul in the latest game. “I spoke a lot about the challenge from Xavi Simons which was completely unintentional. I don’t think you’ll ever get an injury from that tackle. The tackle of Van de Ven if you make it ten times, I think ten times there is a serious chance a player gets a serious injury. It’s going to be a long injury – a couple of months.”

Unlike Xavi Simons’ foul on Virgil van Dijk, which earned him a straight red card, van de Ven did not even receive a yellow, sparking outrage among Arne Slot and Liverpool fans. Although the Reds secured a win that elevated them to fifth place in the Premier League, they suffered a significant setback that can jeopardize the team’s season goals, as the Swede represents a star signing worth €150 million and Mohamed Salah’s drama still goes on.

Arne Slot gets real on Alexander Isak place on Liverpool plans

Alexander Isak, a key component in Liverpool’s reconstruction, joined the team as their new starting striker after a standout performance in the Premier League, holding a huge advantage over Hugo Ekitike. Nonetheless, he has only scored 3 goals in 16 games, causing him to lose the starting spot to the Frenchman. Along to his injury, his poor performance raised doubts about his continuity in the team, to which Arne Slot decided to respond with total clarity.

“Yeah, the last thing I am. And the first thing, it’s been a really challenging and difficult period for him, I think… Maybe no-one understands but if you haven’t trained for three or four months on a serious level with the team and you’re playing in this league. That took, which we all knew, months before we could bring him there because there was no pre-season… He got closer and closer to the player he was at Newcastle,” Arne Slot said at the press conference.

Far from his injury being his last chance, Alexander Isak remains one of Liverpool’s most promising players. Pointed toward the future of the team, the Swede promises to lead the new era alongside Ekitike. With this, his potential departure in June or July 2026 is completely ruled out as he focuses on proving his worth in the team, enjoying the confidence of Arne Slot.

Shakhtar Donetsk CEO Serhiy Palkin speaks to World Soccer Talk about the club's resilience during the ongoing war, the decline of the Ukrainian league, and their new youth academy expansion into the United States.

Over the past quarter-century, Shakhtar Donetsk has transformed from mere contenders to all-conquering champions in Ukrainian soccer. Founded in 1936, Shakhtar won its first trophy in 11 years (and its first since the Soviet Union’s downfall) after winning the 1994/95 Ukrainian Cup, before claiming two more Ukrainian Cups in 1996/97 and 2000/01. And in 2001/02, Shakhtar won the Ukrainian Cup as well as its first-ever Ukrainian Premier League title, putting an end to Dynamo Kyiv’s run of nine straight league titles.

The rest, as they say, is history. Shakhtar has won a record 15 Ukrainian Cups and nine Ukrainian Super Cups, while also winning 15 of the last 24 league titles (two short of Dynamo Kyiv). On the continental stage, the club won the 2009 UEFA Europa League, reached the UEFA Champions League knockout rounds in 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2018, and made it to the Europa League semifinals in 2016 and 2020. There are quite a few reasons behind Shakhtar’s meteoric rise, but a primary factor has been the arrival of Serhiy Anatoliiovych Palkin.

Born in Kryvyi Rih on October 22, 1974, Palkin graduated from the National Academy of Management in Kyiv and worked as a Senior Accountant for Coopers & Lybrand JV between 1997 and 2001. He then assumed the position of Deputy CEO for Budgeting & Economics at Kryvyi Rih Cement & Mining Plant JSC in 2001, eventually ascending to Economics & Finance Director. Palkin made the transition to sports when he joined Shakhtar as Chief Financial Officer on June 3, 2003; a few months later, he was promoted to CEO, a role he has occupied ever since.

“No two weeks are ever the same. Football is fast-moving—it’s not just a sport, it’s a social and economic phenomenon,” stated Palkin in an exclusive World Soccer Talk interview. “Of course, there are strategic things I monitor closely, like our long-term direction and pace of development. But there are also daily operational matters—from results on the pitch to unexpected issues that come up all the time. It’s a job that never stands still.”

Thanks to the guidance of Palkin, the unprecedented affluence of owner Rinat Akhmetov, and the proliferation of Brazilian stars like Willian, Fernandinho, and Fred, Shakhtar has managed to consolidate a domestic and international dynasty. However, it hasn’t been without its fair share of difficulties.

In 2009, Shakhtar moved on from its 73-year-old Central Stadium Shakhtar and transitioned to the $400 million Donbas Arena, which boasted a capacity of 52,187 spectators and hosted various matches in Euro 2012. Less than five years later, Shakhtar was forced to abandon its state-of-the-art stadium after Russian-backed paramilitaries seized cities in Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region and proclaimed the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and the Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR) as independent states. While its stadium is obliterated by artillery shelling, Shakhtar has been forced to move from Donetsk to Lviv to Kharkiv. It’s been more of the same on the continental front; ever since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Shakhtar has been forced to play its European matches outside of Ukraine, going from Warsaw in 2022/23 to Hamburg in 2023/24 to Gelsenkirchen in 2024/25. This season, the club has had two host cities, commencing in Ljubljana before moving to Krakow.

“From the first day of the full-scale invasion, life in Ukraine changed completely. Millions lost their homes, jobs, plans—and many lost their loved ones defending our country. Has Russia paid the price? Not at all. The world must be stronger and more united in standing against their ideology of destruction and aggression. International law must mean something—otherwise, humanity itself is at risk.”

The seemingly endless war hasn’t just meant more violence and bloodshed in Ukraine, but it’s also caused Ukraine’s domestic league to decline. Shortly after the invasion, FIFA announced that foreign players of Ukrainian and Russian clubs could unilaterally suspend their contracts and leave, allowing the likes of Manor Solomon and Tetê to depart Shakhtar for bargain fees, if any fees at all. Shakhtar sought £43 million in damages from FIFA but ultimately lost its case at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. As a result of this player exodus, the majority of Ukrainian Premier League clubs find themselves in a financially precarious position and are doing everything they can to stay afloat.

“In 2021, Ukraine ranked 12th in UEFA’s coefficient table—now we’re 28th. For the first time in modern history, we don’t have a team in the Champions League or Europa League group stages. Some clubs have even ceased operations. Many Ukrainian Premier League teams are newly promoted from lower divisions. Ukrainian football is surviving, but it’s in crisis mode because of the ongoing war.”

Despite being a refugee in its own country, and despite having to play its ‘home’ UEFA matches in seven different cities across three nations since the start of 2014, Shakhtar has been able to hold its own as one of the top teams in the nation thanks to an increased reliance on homegrown players like Mykhailo Mudryk, Anatoliy Trubin, and Georgiy Sudakov. This year, Shakhtar expanded its world-renowned youth production to the United States after launching an academy in Horsham, PA, on June 18, open to children from ages 3 to 15.

Shakhtar isn’t just looking to find the next great Pennsylvania soccer player after Christian Pulisic, Jason Shokalook, and Cavan Sullivan; the club is also making a name for itself in the Garden State after opening an academy in Clifton, NJ, on September 7. Shakhtar connected with Ukrainian communities in the States who wanted to bring their passion for the Miners to the USA to essentially franchise the brand and youth development overseas. Both academies offer a free first session and various training methods for kids between the ages of 3 and 14, with franchisees buying in for a starting fee of $20,000, as well as paying in installments depending on the academy’s success.

“Our franchise model is very flexible and affordable—around $20,000 to start. There’s also the option to pay in installments, depending on the school’s success. That makes it low-risk and appealing for partners who want to join the Shakhtar network. Of course, the goal is for every franchise to become profitable over time. Right now, the focus is on brand development and building local expertise. We’re not yet scouting for the first team, but once we establish ourselves and understand the market better, talent identification will naturally become part of the process. Every country has its own specifics. Setting up the school didn’t take long—about two months. Like in other countries, our U.S. academies are operated by Ukrainians who share our vision.”

After missing out on a fourth consecutive title in 2024/25 after finishing eight points behind Dynamo Kyiv and five behind runners-up Oleksandria, Shakhtar has bounced back in impressive fashion in the first half of the 2025/26 season with 42 goals thus far, seven more than any other team in Ukraine. They sit second in the table, level on 35 points with league leaders LNZ Cherkasy and five above third-placed Polissya, while they also find themselves in second place in the UEFA Conference League with 12 points from five matches thus far.

Nigeria play against Tanzania on Matchday 1 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage. Here’s everything you need to watch the matchup, including kickoff time and full broadcast information with TV and streaming options for viewers in the USA.

Match Overview

Group C opens at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with immediate intrigue as Nigeria begins its campaign looking to respond after a surprising exit from 2026 World Cup qualifying, falling in the African playoff final against the Republic of the Congo.

However, Nigeria are regarded as one of Africa’s elite programs, and will go for the title. The Super Eagles meet a Tanzania squad aiming to turn an uneven qualifying run into an early statement against the group favorite—setting the stage for a compelling opener fans won’t want to miss.

Lionel Messi’s return to the pitch in 2026 has been revealed after an Inter Miami rival released tickets for a South America tour friendly.

Lionel Messi closed out the 2025 season by lifting the MLS Cup, delivering the most significant trophy in Inter Miami’s young history after a long and demanding campaign. While currently on vacation, the Argentine star’s return date has now been revealed, as one of Inter Miami’s South American tour opponents has released tickets for the upcoming friendly.

Inter Miami’s opening match of the MLS Is Back weekend is scheduled for February 21, when the Herons will visit Son Heung-min’s LAFC in a marquee matchup. Before that, Messi and company will embark on a South American preseason tour, with preparations set to begin through one of the newly announced fixtures.

On Monday, Alianza Lima announced a friendly against Inter Miami to be played in Peru at the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium. Messi is set to return to the pitch in 2026 on Saturday, January 24, marking his first appearance of the year in the opening match of the club’s South American tour.

With kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. local time, Alianza Lima confirmed that 7,000 tickets have already been sold, with additional seats now available to the public. The stadium, which has a capacity of 33,938, is expected to host a strong crowd eager to see the reigning MLS Cup champions back in action.

Inter Miami previously visited Peru in January 2025, when they faced Universitario during The Americas Preseason Tour on January 29. That match ended in a 0-0 draw before the Herons secured a 5-4 victory in a penalty shootout in a packed Lima’s Monumental Stadium, which held over 80,000 fans, significantly larger than the venue for the upcoming fixture.

Ahead of the 2025 season, Inter Miami’s first friendly took place on January 19, when they faced Liga MX powerhouse Club América in Las Vegas, again winning via penalty shootout. This time, Messi’s 2026 return will come on January 24, a few days later than the previous year after the postseason extended with the MLS Cup triumph.

What are Inter Miami’s 2026 preseason friendlies?

As they did last year to limit long-distance travel, Inter Miami will keep their preseason schedule within the region, opening the tour against Alianza Lima. The Peruvian club, however, will not be the only South American opponent on the itinerary.

Following the January 24 opener, Messi’s side will travel to Colombia to face Atlético Nacional de Medellín at Estadio Atanasio Girardot in front of more than 40,000 fans on Saturday, January 31. One week later, Inter Miami will meet Barcelona Sporting Club in Ecuador at Estadio Banco Pichincha in Guayaquil, a venue with a capacity of nearly 60,000 spectators.

After claiming the Supercoppa Italiana on Monday, Napoli head coach Antonio Conte made a subtle jab to Manchester United over star duo of Scott McTominay and Rasmus Højlund.

Napoli captured the 2025-26 Supercoppa Italiana with a 2–0 victory over Bologna, powered by a brace from David Neres in a match where the Partenopei created the better chances throughout. After the final whistle, head coach Antonio Conte reflected on the win and delivered a subtle swipe at Manchester United regarding Napoli’s star duo of Rasmus Højlund and Scott McTominay.

After falling out of favor at Old Trafford, Højlund and McTominay have found renewed success in Italy, specifically under Conte at Napoli. The Scottish midfielder arrived ahead of the 2024-25 season and went on to be named Serie A MVP, while, according to Corriere dello Sport, McTominay played a role in convincing Højlund to join him, with the Danish striker quickly establishing himself as a key contributor.

Speaking in the post-match press conference after lifting the trophy, Conte addressed the number of chances Napoli failed to convert: “If we look at how many chances we created, we could have been far more effective. We played a great match in every aspect. The first goal was a moment of brilliance from a champion; the other situations were carefully designed to put the opponents under pressure with many players around the box.“

The Italian manager then highlighted the work done by his coaching staff with the squad, in what appeared to be a pointed reference to the Premier League side. “Højlund and McTominay were not playing at Manchester United, so there must be a reason given the work done by me and my staff. I believe our job is to expand a player’s knowledge and make him stronger,” Conte added.

“I invest a lot in that, and I think every player I have worked with has always come out improved technically, tactically, and mentally. We lacked clinical finishing against a strong team, but it remains a great performance, and I can only be happy and proud,” he concluded. While Neres stole the spotlight with his two-goal display, both the Danish striker and the Scottish midfielder were constant threats and came close to adding their names to the scoresheet.

McTominay joined Napoli on a permanent deal worth €30.5 million, with his Transfermarkt value now rising to €50 million. Højlund, meanwhile, arrived on a one-year loan for €6 million, with an obligation to buy set at €44 million should Napoli qualify for the Champions League. At their current pace, sitting third in Serie A, the Danish forward appears well positioned to make the move permanent.

Napoli far from being dominant, says Conte

Since Conte’s arrival, Napoli have undergone a successful rebuild, capturing the Scudetto in the 2024-25 season and adding the Supercoppa Italiana six months later. Despite the strong performance against Bologna, however, the veteran manager insists the club is still far from establishing true dominance.

Asked about Napoli’s standing in Italian soccer, Conte was clear in his assessment: “I don’t feel I can say that. I would be lying. Last year we won the league with a reduced squad; now we have added many players, but we are not ready to dictate terms. We must try to stay as close as possible to the Champions League zone, because those four spots will be highly contested. We have to understand that only through humility and hard work can we earn satisfaction. We are not ready, nor are we even close, to dominating.“

After making his 200th appearance for the club, USMNT star Weston McKennie candidly addressed his contract situation at Juventus.

Weston McKennie faces an uncertain future in Europe as his current contract with Juventus is set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season. After reaching the 200-appearance mark with the Italian giants, the USMNT star addressed his future with the Vecchia Signora for the first time.

After joining Juventus from Schalke 04 on loan in 2020 before completing a permanent €22 million (around $25M) move in 2021, McKennie has come a long way in establishing himself in Italian football. Following a loan spell at Leeds United during the 2023–24 season, the midfielder returned to Turin, reclaimed his place in the squad, and signed a two-year contract extension.

With that deal now approaching its final year, McKennie spoke to reporters at an event hosted by his charity, McKennie’s Magical Youth Mission, reflecting on his time at the club: “I was talking about it with my dad before, and I said, ‘My goodness, I’ve been here for almost six years.’ Turin is a huge part of my life, so I want to do everything I can for the people here.

The USMNT star was honored with a commemorative jersey recognizing his 200 appearances during Juventus’ match against AS Roma last Saturday. “It was a huge moment for me, for my family, and for the people in America. For everyone, but especially for me: I’m very happy to have reached this milestone. It’s difficult to be here and make 200 appearances, but I did it, and hopefully there will be another hundred,” he stated.

During the second half of the 2024-25 season, McKennie re-established himself as a regular starter for Juventus, and under the arrival of head coach Luciano Spalletti, he has become one of the team’s cornerstones. “I hope to stay at Juventus. But I leave everything in my agent’s hands,” the midfielder concluded, clarifying his intention to continue not only in Europe, but specifically in Turin.

Juventus and a rebuilding process under Spalletti

Juventus, who appointed Luciano Spalletti ahead of the campaign, endured a slow start to the 2025-26 season, dropping points through multiple draws while balancing Serie A and Champions League commitments and remaining off the pace in both competitions. Over the past month, however, the Turin side has found momentum, winning six of its last seven matches across all competitions.

Asked about the team’s recent form, McKennie pointed to Spalletti’s influence: “It was a difficult time before, but now we’ve rediscovered our identity. The coach, who is a great coach, knows how to play football and how to train players. I really like him, and we hope to finish the year strong against Pisa by taking another three points.“

The USMNT midfielder also shared insight into Spalletti’s methodology. “He pays attention to the little things, the things that not everyone normally pays much attention to. He also talks to the players individually; he’s a good coach, even in terms of his relationship with each player. In training, he always says you have to make sacrifices for the team and your teammates, and even to score goals. He says it’s better to provide an assist because that way you’ll smile twice instead of just once,” he added.

With Santiago Gimenez sidelined due to injury, Christian Pulisic is set to receive a key squad boost as AC Milan have reportedly secured the signing from the Premier League.

Christian Pulisic has enjoyed a strong first half of the 2025-26 season despite AC Milan’s absence from European competition, with the club pushing toward the top of the Serie A table. As part of their plan to remain competitive, and with Santiago Gimenez’s injury situation requiring attention, the Rossoneri have reportedly secured a signing from the Premier League.

In his return to the Milan dugout, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has turned the club into one of Serie A’s most defensively solid teams, conceding just 13 goals. However, goal production has emerged as a concern, with Pulisic currently the team’s leading scorer while injuries have also sidelined the USMNT star at times, prompting the board to address the attack.

According to Fabrizio Romano, AC Milan have secured the signing of Niclas Füllkrug from West Ham United for the second half of the 2025–26 season. The German striker will join the Italian side on a six-month loan deal, filling the void left by Gimenez as he continues his recovery.

A starting striker who reached the UEFA Champions League final with Borussia Dortmund in 2024, Füllkrug established himself as Germany’s first-choice No. 9. West Ham paid €27 million to sign him for the 2024–25 season, but persistent injuries have prevented him from making a lasting impact in the Premier League.

Having fallen out of West Ham’s squad in recent matches, Füllkrug was eager for a move to AC Milan, turning down two offers to return to Germany, and now is set to sign his contract on Tuesday. To complete the deal, the Rossoneri will cover his salary but will not pay a loan fee, with the agreement including a non-mandatory purchase option between €13 million and €14 million (approximately $15–16 million).

So far in the 2025–26 season, Füllkrug has logged just 413 minutes across nine appearances, averaging fewer than 46 minutes per match, without recording a goal or an assist. With his profile as a true target striker and traditional No. 9, unlike Pulisic, Rafael Leão, or Christopher Nkunku, Allegri has added a type of forward he has historically favored in his systems.

Gimenez to face competition once he returns

Santiago Gimenez has struggled to cement a place in Milan’s starting XI, due both to inconsistent performances and ongoing injury issues. In recent weeks, the Mexican striker has been dealing with ankle discomfort, and ahead of the Supercoppa Italiana semifinal against Napoli, Allegri confirmed that Gimenez opted to undergo surgery to address the problem.

Although he has returned to training, the discomfort has persisted, and Gimenez is now facing a recovery timeline of six to eight weeks, with Allegri hoping to “have him back as soon as possible.” With Füllkrug joining the squad as a very different striker profile, the Mexico international will need to focus first on regaining full fitness before competing for minutes with Milan’s latest attacking addition.

Despite being in Germany for just over two years, Harry Kane has already broken Arjen Robben's surprising record at Bayern Munich. With this achievement, the Englishman is already carving out a historic legacy in the team's history.

After arriving in Germany in 2023, Harry Kane quickly established himself as one of Bayern Munich‘s best players. Although he did not win any titles in his first season, he managed to claim the 2023/24 European Golden Boot. Far from diminishing his impact on the team, the Englishman has just won his first professional titles, breaking Arjen Robben’s surprising team record and sowing an already historic legacy.

Harry Kane reached to score 1. FC Heidenheim 1846, notching his 30th goal of the 2025–26 season with Bayern Munich. This milestone brought his total goal contributions to an impressive 100 since joining the club—consisting of 81 goals and 19 assists—in just 78 games. Kane’s achievement surpasses Arjen Robben’s previous record, with the Dutchman requiring 119 matches to reach the same figure, hinting an already historic legacy.

Despite arriving at Bayern Munich at the age of 30, Kane has silenced critics of his signing by demonstrating an impressive immediate impact. After playing 121 matches, the Englishman has scored 115 goals and provided 29 assists. However, the arrival of coach Vincent Kompany has elevated his importance even further, transforming him into a complete player who is crucial in both build-up play and his goal-scoring role.

With his impressive performances, Harry Kane held a huge chance to leave Bayern Munich due to a reported €65 million release clause in January 2026. Although Barcelona and several teams have shown interest in his arrival, the Englishman has decided to rule out any potential departure. With this in mind, he could be chasing a historic legacy with the German side, entering among the all-time scorers.

Kane could chase his first-ever Champions League title under Kompany

Unlike previous seasons, Bayern Munich have managed to establish themselves as one of the best teams in the world. Under coach Vincent Kompany, they have imposed themselves with a fully dominant style that proves unpredictable for opponents due to the freedom of movement granted to their players. With this imposing style of play, Harry Kane could be chasing his first Champions League title and even the Ballon d’Or.

With his prolific goal-scoring form, Harry Kane is leading the German side toward the Champions League title, keeping them second in the standings. In addition, his outstanding level makes him one of the main contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or alongside Kylian Mbappé. For this reason, the Englishman could be in the midst of the best professional season of his entire career, one that could see him establish himself among the greatest players in the club’s history.

Luis Enrique has successfully elevated PSG to one of the world's elite teams by securing a historic victories streak. In order to secure his continuity, the Spaniard coach is positioned to receive a groundbreaking contract renewal, potentially setting a new precedent in soccer history.

Paris Saint-Germain have managed to establish themselves as one of the best teams in the world, surprising fans across the board. Far from seeing their level drop after Kylian Mbappé’s departure, Luis Enrique has built a fully solid team, prioritizing collective play over individual performance. Given their impressive level, the French side would be willing to offer the Spanish coach a historic contract renewal, setting a precedent in the soccer world.

According to José Félix Díaz of Diario AS, PSG are considering offering Luis Enrique a contract renewal, even though his current deal runs until 2027. However, this possibility is quite peculiar, as the French side are reportedly weighing the idea of making it a ‘lifetime’ contract, ensuring the Spaniard enjoys unparalleled freedom and control over the team. If finalized, it would be the first time such an agreement has occurred in soccer.

Even though Carlo Ancelotti, Laurent Blanc, and Thomas Tuchel had outstanding tenures with the French side, it was Luis Enrique and Luis Campos who truly transformed PSG into a European powerhouse. By moving on from figures like Neymar Jr., Kylian Mbappe, and Marco Verratti, the coach ushered in a new era dominated by players like Vitinha and Achraf Hakimi. Nonetheless, they have found a way to thrive without any of them, imposing as an imposing side.

Luis Enrique, despite this potentially enticing offer, may struggle to accept a renewal. Throughout his career, the coach has built a reputation for avoiding long-term contracts, preferring to maintain tight control over his professional journey and preserving the freedom to seek new opportunities—something not possible under this new proposal. Nevertheless, reports indicate that both the coach and PSG share a desire to ensure his ongoing tenure.

Luis Enrique has already left a legendary mark on soccer history

Luis Enrique launched his professional coaching career in 2008 and has consistently showcased his transformative abilities. After stints at AS Roma and RC Celta, he assumed the role of head coach at FC Barcelona, following the tenures of Pep Guardiola and Tito Vilanova. At Barcelona, he achieved a historic treble and led the club to its latest UEFA Champions League title, cementing his status as one of the most significant coaches for the club in the 21st century.

While his time with the Spanish national team was not entirely successful, PSG appointed him head coach in 2023, tasking him with rebooting the project and taking full control. Against all expectations, he managed to build a promising sporting project, focusing on young talent and collective play. As a result, he won a historic sextuple, joining Pep Guardiola and Hansi Flick as the only coaches in history to achieve that feat.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been struck with great news as FIFA has decided to lift the ban from Al Nassr with the winter transfer window just around the corner.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been preparing to return to action as the 2025–26 Saudi Pro League paused due to the recently held Arab Cup. With the 2026 transfer window approaching, the Portuguese star received positive news as FIFA officially lifted Al Nassr’s registration sanction.

On Friday, December 19, FIFA updated its list of clubs prohibited from registering new players, with Al Nassr among those added. Under the ruling, the Saudi club would have been unable to make any signings until the sanction was removed.

However, just three days later on Monday, FIFA confirmed Al Nassr’s full compliance with regulations, as first reported by Fabrizio Romano, resulting in the permanent lifting of the registration ban. No specific end date had been set for the sanction, meaning that once the outstanding obligations were settled, the restriction could be removed immediately.

According to reports from Saudi media, the sanction stemmed from a missed installment related to the signing of Aymeric Laporte from Manchester City, now with Athletic Bilbao. With a €9 million payment due on August 31, Al Nassr ultimately cleared the debt, which led to the immediate removal of the ban.

Unlike most European leagues, the Saudi winter transfer window officially opens on January 5 and runs through February 2. After a perfect start to the SPL season, the ability to add reinforcements in the coming weeks could prove crucial for Al Nassr as they look to maintain their dominance.

Will Al Nassr make any significant move?

Currently sitting atop the SPL table with nine wins from nine matches and already qualified for the knockout stage of the AFC Champions League Two, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr are thriving in Saudi Arabia. Despite their commanding form, potential activity in the winter transfer window remains a possibility.

The contracts of international stars Marcelo Brozović, Sadio Mané, and Iñigo Martínez are set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season in June. While all three have been regular starters and key contributors, the club could explore future replacements rather than immediate contract renewals.

Another storyline emerging from Saudi reports involves the potential departures of goalkeeper Bento and winger Wesley. Both Brazilians have seen reduced roles in the starting XI, and with each occupying an international roster spot, Al Nassr could be open to offers, with head coach Jorge Jesus also reportedly evaluating the addition of a new striker to help manage Ronaldo’s workload through rotation.

Santos has delivered an injury update after Neymar's knee surgery, prompting questions on when will the Brazil star return to the pitch.

Neymar has finally undergone surgery to address the knee injury he suffered during the final stretch of the 2025 Brasileirão season. Despite playing through pain and helping Santos avoid relegation with a remarkable late push, the club has now released an official injury update, raising questions about how long it will take for the Brazil star to return to the pitch.

After suffering a medial meniscus injury in the match against Mirassol, Neymar was initially expected to be sidelined through the end of 2025. However, with Santos stuck in the relegation zone, the forward opted to delay surgery and continued playing, recording five goals and one assist in the final four matches of the season before finally undergoing treatment.

Santos released a statement addressing Neymar’s status: “Player Neymar da Silva Santos Junior underwent surgery on Monday morning (12/22) at Mater Dei Nova Lima, performed by Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar and his medical team. An arthroscopic procedure was carried out to treat an injury to the medial meniscus. The surgery was successful, and the athlete is doing well.“

The procedure was performed by Dr. Lasmar, a physician for the Brazil national team, underscoring the federation’s interest in Neymar’s recovery. “Neymar Jr. is expected to be discharged early this afternoon and will immediately begin his rehabilitation process, which will be coordinated by his physiotherapist, Rafael Martini. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Prince of Vila!” the statement concluded.

Undergoing surgery marked a key step for Neymar as he works toward extending his contract with Santos, which is set to expire at the end of December 2025. With his father and agent leading negotiations and international competition looming in 2026, the former Barcelona star is focused on returning to peak form ahead of the World Cup in North America.

When is Neymar expected to return?

Following Neymar’s late-season heroics, Santos finished the 2025 Brasileirão in 12th place, safely clear of relegation and qualified for the Copa Sudamericana. Players are scheduled to report back on January 2, with the club’s first official match of 2026 set for January 11 against Novorizontino in the Campeonato Paulista, a game Neymar is unlikely to play.

Beginning his recovery under the supervision of his personal physiotherapist Rafael Martini, Neymar is expected to face a rehabilitation timeline of approximately one month. Under that scenario, the Brazil international could return to training and be available for selection in early February.

Santos will play five Campeonato Paulista matches in January, followed by their Brasileirão opener against Chapecoense on January 28. As a result, Neymar is expected to miss at least six matches, with that number potentially increasing depending on his recovery progress and match fitness.

After the drama of a few weeks ago, Mohamed Salah and Liverpool seem poised to embark on a new chapter in their long and successful partnership. The Reds' owners have decided to revise their perspective on the Egyptian star, paving the way for several possibilities.

While the drama between Mohamed Salah and Liverpool seemed never-ending, the Egyptian returned to the team’s roster prior to his departure for the AFCON with Egypt. With this, both parties seem to have smoothed their relationship, opening the door to his continuity. Despite this, the veteran does not have a guaranteed starting spot in Arne Slot’s lineup. In view of this, the Reds’ owners have changed their minds about Salah.

According to TEAMtalk, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool, have shifted their stance on the possibility of selling Mohamed Salah, now considering it impossible rather than just unlikely. This change reflects Salah’s exceptional performance in the Premier League, as well as the serious injury to Alexander Isak, which has made keeping the veteran a top priority—effectively ruling out a departure in January 2026.

While Salah is open to returning to Liverpool, he insists on maintaining a primary role, reports TEAMtalk. Despite Isak’s injury, Dominik Szoboszlai is emerging as the preferred starter on the right wing, indicating a major tactical shift for the team. Consequently, Mohamed might not have a guaranteed spot in the starting lineup, a situation that conflicts with his expectations and could put FSG’s stance to the test in response to the veteran’s own demands.

In case Liverpool decide not to make any signings in January 2026, Mohamed Salah could take on a much more prominent role than expected. With only Hugo Ekitike as a forward option, the veteran could frequently step into the starting lineup thanks to his imposing goal-scoring ability. Even so, the Egyptian appears determined to leave the Reds at the end of the season, bringing his historic spell with the club to an end.

Salah seems ready towards a Saudi Pro League move

Mohamed Salah continues to draw interest from several major European clubs. Although he did not begin the season in peak form, his situation has prompted many top teams to closely monitor his potential availability. While he has dismissed the possibility of a move in January 2026, the veteran seems open to joining the Saudi Pro League at the end of the 2025-26 season, ruling out a departure to another European team.

While his departure from Liverpool could command a high transfer fee, top clubs in the Saudi Pro League appear well-equipped to meet it. His potential salary not only promises to be highly attractive, but these clubs are also ready to build a project around him, positioning him as the face of the league, according to TEAMtalk. Moreover, as an Arab figure, his cultural impact could prove to be even more significant.

With just 6 months left before the start of the 2026 World Cup, the FIFA Ranking has been updated, leaving Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal and the Top 10 positions unchanged.

The FIFA Ranking, which evaluates and orders the strongest national teams in the world, has been updated for the final time in 2025, setting the landscape ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With only minimal movement, Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, and the entire Top 10 remained unchanged in the latest release.

Although the March international window will be the final stage of World Cup qualifying, several international competitions have taken place during the club season. This update was primarily influenced by the 2025 Arab Cup, which was held between November 25 and December 18.

Tournament champions Morocco (11th) received a significant boost of 3.22 points but remained just 0.55 points shy of overtaking Croatia for a place in the Top 10. Still, the African side widened its gap over 12th-ranked Italy, which sits on 1,702.06 points and continues to fight for World Cup qualification.

Meanwhile, Argentina, Portugal, and other national teams from CONMEBOL and UEFA did not play any matches during this ranking period, leaving their point totals unchanged. The Top 10 could see movement once Messi, Ronaldo, and the rest of the world’s elite return to action during the March international window.

The top 33 positions in the rankings remained unchanged, with Algeria climbing above Egypt to move into 34th place. Jordan (now 64th and Argentina’s group-stage opponent at the World Cup), Vietnam (107th), and Singapore (148th) were the only teams to gain multiple positions in this update.

Although the next international window arrives in March, the Africa Cup of Nations has already begun, with Morocco opening the tournament on Sunday. Once the competition concludes on January 18, another FIFA Ranking update is expected, affecting only African nations in terms of points gained or lost.

Could the ranking affect the 2026 World Cup?

The FIFA Ranking was used to determine the pots and groupings for the 2026 World Cup draw. However, now that the draw has been completed and the groups finalized, despite six remaining qualification spots, future ranking updates will have no impact on the tournament, which kicks off in June 2026.

FIFA Ranking Top 10

1. Spain — 1,877.18 points.
2. Argentina — 1,873.33 points.
3. France — 1,870 points.
4. England — 1,834.12 points.
5. Brazil — 1,760.46 points.
6. Portugal — 1,760.38 points.
7. Netherlands — 1,756.27 points.
8. Belgium — 1,730.71 points.
9. Germany — 1,724.15 points.
10. Croatia — 1,716.88 points.

Inter Miami look set to make radical changes to its squad, looking to improve the team's competitiveness. For this reason, the Herons have set their sights on a two-time Copa America champion Argentine midfielder ahead of January 2026.

After several seasons chasing the MLS Cup, Inter Miami have managed to win it for the first time in their history. Far from settling, the team has decided to make radical changes to its roster, as Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have announced their retirements. As a result, the Herons have already gotten to work, reinforcing the team in certain areas. However, an Argentine two-time Copa América champion is being linked as a potential partner for Lionel Messi.

According to journalists Alex Merida and Manu Colchon, Giovanni Lo Celso would be open to leaving Real Betis, as he is not receiving the desired playing time to return with Argentina for the 2026 World Cup. In light of this, Inter Miami would be interested in securing his services, with the Spanish club asking for €5 million for him—an amount it would not hesitate to pay—making his arrival a very real possibility.

While Lo Celso’s potential arrival would significantly boost the Herons, it wouldn’t eliminate the need for reinforcement in defensive midfield. Neither Giovanni nor Rodrigo De Paul specialize in defense, meaning the pressing need for a Busquets replacement would still exist. Pairing the Argentine’s arrival with the addition of a true defensive midfielder could allow Inter Miami to address their defensive issues, enhancing both solidity and creativity.

In the 2025-26 season, Giovanni Lo Celso has taken on a rotation role, as Pablo Fornals and Nelson Deossa secured spots in the starting lineup. Despite this, coach Manuel Pellegrini values him as a crucial player in the rotation, with him having logged 1,203 minutes for Real Betis. However, his impact hasn’t matched his impressive performance from the 2024-25 season. For that reason, a potential move to Inter Miami offer him a chance to rediscover his best form.

Inter Miami raise the bar after landmark MLS Cup win

Far from being satisfied with winning the 2025 MLS Cup, Inter Miami is already setting its sights on much higher goals. Co-owner Jorge Mas stated that the main objective in 2026 will be to pursue the Concacaf Champions Cup. To that end, head coach Javier Mascherano could have a much stronger roster with greater depth, something the team did not have during the 2025 season and yet still came quite close.

With an improved roster in mind, the Herons have renewed the contracts of Luis Suárez and Ian Fray. In addition, Sergio Reguilón has arrived to reinforce the left-back position, providing a strong response to Jordi Alba’s retirement. Meanwhile, Dayne St. Clair and Facundo Mura are in negotiations to finalize their moves to Inter Miami, a list that could also include a defensive midfielder and Giovanni Lo Celso, given the uncertainty surrounding Tadeo Allende’s future.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be facing a long break due to FIFA calendar until his next game with Al Nassr.

Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 40 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game is scheduled for Saturday, December 27, when Al Nassr host Al Okhood for Matchday 11 of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League. Even though the next scheduled game is on December 24 against Al Zawraa in the AFC Champions League Two, Ronaldo is unlikely to take part in the game as he hasn’t been called up to play in that competition so far this season.

Regarding the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return during the March international break. After having his suspension lifted ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the veteran forward will be available for selection for Portugal’s two friendlies, one of which is reportedly set to be against the USMNT.

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 11 goals and provided 2 assists in 12 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.

Ronaldo and a long break due to FIFA schedule

After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star will endure a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule.

From December 1 through 18, Qatar will host the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final set for Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final. With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, will be unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.

With nearly a month separating matches until the December 21 showdown against Al Najma SC, local reports say Al Nassr’s players will receive nine days of rest. Afterward, Ronaldo and his teammates will begin training at the club’s new first-team facility, developed in partnership with King Saud University.

Benfica will host Famalicao in a Matchday 15 clash of the 2025/2026 Primeira Liga. Here’s everything you need to know, including full game information, kickoff details, and where to watch on TV or via streaming services.

Match Overview

This Primeira Liga showdown carries real weight for both sides as Benfica look to protect their place near the top of the table. The Lisbon giants sit third with 32 points, trailing league-leading Porto by eight and chasing Sporting by three in the battle for a Champions League spot, leaving them with virtually no margin for error.

Standing in the way is a hungry Famalicao squad still in the mix for European qualification, just three points off the pace for the final continental berth, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest with postseason implications on both ends of the pitch—one fans won’t want to miss when the opening whistle blows.

Although Dani Carvajal continues to solidify his reputation as one of the world's top fullbacks, injuries have disrupted his career progress. As a result, the veteran's future remains somewhat uncertain, with Real Madrid reportedly making decisions about his role within the team.

Dani Carvajal has firmly established himself as one of the world’s most dominant right-backs. Key in both defense and offense, the Spaniard has become one of Real Madrid’s most influential players over the past decade, with many considering him the best in his position in the club’s history. However, injuries have disrupted his current form, casting uncertainty on his future, as the Spanish club has reportedly made a decision regarding his tenure.

According to reports from El Nacional, Real Madrid have made the decision not to renew Dani Carvajal’s contract, as the club is determined to carry out a full overhaul of its defensive line. With his deal set to expire in June 2026, the Spaniard could be on course to become a free agent following the serious knee injury he suffered in late October 2025. As a result, the 33-year-old star would bring an end to his 12-year tenure with the club.

While his continuity is not fully assured, Dani Carvajal is pushing for a return to the pitch scheduled for mid-January 2026. According to Marca, the veteran’s return to the roster is considered a priority due to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury, as well as Carvajal’s on-field impact. In addition, the veteran is reportedly using his “vacation” period to accelerate his comeback to the team.

Although Dani Carvajal has dealt with serious physical issues since 2024, the Spaniard has always delivered for Real Madrid, proving that he only needs to return to peak fitness to regain his influence. Moreover, Trent has failed to establish himself as a regular starter, leaving significant defensive gaps and limited offensive impact, which raises doubts about a potential departure of the veteran.

Dani Carvajal sows a defining legacy at Real Madrid

Unlike legends such as Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Cristiano Ronaldo, Daniel Carvajal forged a completely distinct legacy at Real Madrid, comparable to that of Iker Casillas and Raul Gonzalez. Having been developed through the club’s academy, he managed to establish himself among the greatest players in the club’s history, which is unusual and makes him the last player to achieve it.

Carvajal’s influence extends beyond his decisive impact on the pitch; he became Real Madrid’s most vocal leader following Sergio Ramos’ departure. Through his leadership, the Spaniard has become a pivotal figure in the dressing room, playing a crucial role in helping newly arrived players adapt. Moreover, he has clinched six UEFA Champions League titles, surpassing the total number won by Barcelona in the competition, all while being a product of the club’s academy.

Egypt will face Zimbabwe on Matchday 1 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage. Here’s everything you need to watch the matchup, including kickoff time and full broadcast information with TV and streaming options for viewers in the USA. >

Match Overview

Egypt opens its Africa Cup of Nations campaign as one of the tournament favorites, with Mohamed Salah leading another run at continental glory. Coming off a World Cup qualification driven by their superstar forward, the Pharaohs begin group play against Zimbabwe.

In a group that also includes Angola and South Africa, Zimbabwe seems to be a much accessible rival. That’s why Egypt enters as the clear favorite, however AFCON is known for early surprises, making this opener more intriguing than it looks—don’t miss the chance to watch how this title bid begins.

After encountering several off-field issues, Dani Alves stepped away from soccer in 2023 and appeared to distance himself from the sport. However, the veteran player has reportedly made a recent acquisition that might pave the way for an unexpected professional comeback.

Dani Alves emerged as one of the most influential players in Barcelona’s history. Excelling in the right-back position, he established a historic legacy that continued at clubs like Juventus FC and PSG. However, in 2023, while playing for Pumas UNAM of Liga MX, he faced various legal challenges that distanced him from soccer. Despite this, the 42-year-old is reportedly on the brink of a comeback after completing a surprising acquisition.

According to ESPN Brasil, Daniel Alves is nearing the acquisition of Sporting Clube de São João de Ver, a team in Portugal’s third division. With this move, the veteran Brazilian is considering playing with the roster for just six months, marking the final chapter of his professional career and joining the ranks of soccer team owners.

Far from being an attempt to extend his career for many years, Dani Alves could be looking for a last step to close his career as a player since his time at Pumas UNAM was abruptly cut short. In addition, the Brazilian could be looking to impose greater competitiveness in São João de Ve, as they have only three titles in their 96-year history, the last one being the Taça AF Aveiro in 2019.

After resolving his legal conflicts in March 2025, the Brazilian decided to become an evangelical preacher at the Elim Church in Girona, Spain. Having stayed away from professional soccer for two years, his possible return surprised fans who thought his career was already a closed chapter. However, he is determined to chase a proper closure on his tenure and propel Sporting Clube de São João de Ver to the Primeira Liga in Portugal for the first time in their history.

Dani Alves had serious legal problems that cut short his career

After arriving as a major star at Pumas UNAM in June 2022, Dani Alves sought to shine in Liga MX, much like figures such as André-Pierre Gignac. However, in December 2022 he was accused of sexual assault at the Sutton nightclub in Barcelona and was arrested in January 2023 without bail. After several months, the Brazilian was sentenced in February 2024 to four years and six months in prison, along with five years of supervised release and the payment of €150,000.

Just one month later, Dani Alves decided to pay bail of €1 million to leave prison, and the High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC) decided to acquit him of the charge of sexual assault in April-May of 2025 due to alleged “gaps, inaccuracies, inconsistencies, and contradictions regarding the facts,” according to BBC. While this decision was appealed before the Supreme Court, no ruling has yet been reported in the case.

Which other current or former stars actually own their own soccer teams?

While most former players often transition into roles as coaches or executives within soccer clubs, some choose to break away from the traditional path entirely. By acquiring a stake in or full ownership of a team, they join the ranks of club owners—a move increasingly emulated by current players making surprising investments.

Several legends have ventured into the business side of soccer. David Beckham made headlines when he became a co-owner of Inter Miami in 2018. Similarly, Gerard Piqué, through his company Kosmos Sports, purchased Andorra FC. Zlatan Ibrahimović owns a notable 23.5% stake in Sweden’s Hammarby, while Thierry Henry, alongside Cesc Fàbregas and other notable figures, co-owns Serie A team Como 1907.

Despite being a fairly young player, Kylian Mbappé decided to become the owner of 80% of SC Caen of Ligue 2 through an investment partnership. With this move, the Frenchman became the youngest owner of a club at just 25 years old. Alongside him, Luka Modrić joined as a co-owner of Swansea City in England’s Championship. While both stars keep shining in top European leagues, they have already become businessmen in soccer.

Napoli and Bologna face each other in the 2025/2026 Supercoppa Italiana final. Find the full kickoff schedule along with TV listings and streaming broadcast information here.

Match Overview

The Supercoppa Italiana final arrives with a twist, showcasing a matchup few anticipated when the tournament began. Napoli enter the showdown riding strong momentum after a convincing 2–0 semifinal victory over AC Milan, positioning themselves to close out 2025 by adding silverware to an already impressive run.

Across from them stands Bologna, the competition’s ultimate wild card after stunning Inter in a dramatic penalty shootout, a result that reshaped the bracket and set the stage for a championship clash. With Napoli chasing validation and Bologna embracing the role of fearless disruptor, this title game promises high stakes and genuine unpredictability.

In another example of the Lionel Messi effect, D.C. United have decided to change the venue for their clash against Inter Miami ahead of the 2026 MLS season.

Lionel Messi has been the sensation of Major League Soccer since his arrival in North America in mid-2023, drawing interest from fans and celebrities alike in a wave of attention often referred to as the “Messi effect.” Ahead of the 2026 MLS season, that interest has produced yet another milestone, as D.C. United will change venues for their matchup against Inter Miami.

With “MLS Is Back” weekend scheduled for February 21–22, Inter Miami will play several road matches before the inauguration of Miami Freedom Park against Austin FC on April 4. For Matchday 3, the Herons are set to visit D.C. United on March 7, and ahead of that game, the hosts have made an exceptional decision.

D.C. United have decided to move the match from Audi Field to M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. Home of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, the venue is now set to host Lionel Messi and Inter Miami.

“D.C. United vs. Inter Miami CF on March 7, 2026, will be played at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD,” the club announced on its official website, alongside the release of special pre-sale ticket access. The primary motivation behind the move is to expand capacity, increasing attendance from Audi Field’s roughly 20,000 seats to more than 70,000 at the Ravens’ home stadium.

Since Messi’s arrival in MLS, Inter Miami and D.C. United have faced each other four times, twice in Miami and twice in the U.S. capital. However, Messi was unavailable for both matches played in Washington, D.C., as he was recovering from injuries, while he featured in both meetings at Fort Lauderdale.

With a perfect home record of two wins from two matches, Messi is now expected, barring an unexpected setback, to make his first away appearance against D.C. United. For that occasion, the hosts have opted for a major change, moving the match from the nation’s capital to Baltimore.

Other venue changes since Messi’s arrival

While the initial boom of mid-2023 has cooled slightly, Messi continued to drive record attendance figures throughout the 2025 season, and that trend is expected to carry into 2026 with the World Cup approaching. In that sense, D.C. United are not the first club to relocate a match due to the Argentine’s presence.

In 2024, Sporting Kansas City moved its match against Inter Miami from Children’s Mercy Park to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on April 13. A year later, in April 2025 on Matchday 9, Columbus Crew shifted their fixture from Lower.com Field to Huntington Bank Stadium, home of the Cleveland Browns—both moves designed to accommodate larger crowds for Messi’s visit.

After the repeated snubs suffered in 2025, FC Barcelona star Raphinha delivered a sharp six-word message on the Ballon d'Or.

Raphinha wrapped up a remarkable 2025 on both a personal and team level, emerging as one of FC Barcelona’s most decisive players. However, the lack of major individual recognition has raised eyebrows among fans, and from the player himself. After Sunday’s match, the Brazilian delivered a sharp six-word response when asked about the Ballon d’Or.

Barcelona traveled to Villarreal on Sunday for Matchday 18 of La Liga, with Raphinha playing a key role in the 2-0 road victory. In the 10th minute, the winger drove into the box and drew a penalty, which was converted a minute later to give the Blaugrana the lead, another example of his strong form.

As the match ended, Raphinha was heading toward the team bus through the mixed zone when he was reminded that Barcelona had finished the first half of the season as “winter champions.” He played it down cautiously. However, when asked whether the Ballon d’Or might finally come his way this season, he delivered a blunt response: “Don’t care. Not interesting to me.“

Raphinha’s comments stem not only from his fifth-place finish in the Ballon d’Or voting, but also from his exclusion from several end-of-season honors. The frustration first surfaced after he was left out of the 2025 FIFPro Best XI and later omitted from FIFA’s The Best XI.

Raphinha’s 2025

Raphinha established himself as one of the top players of 2025, not only through his goal contributions but also because of his influence on a Barcelona side that collected multiple trophies. During the 2024-25 campaign, the Brazilian lifted La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa del Rey, while falling just short of the UEFA Champions League final after a semifinal defeat to Inter Milan.

On an individual level, Raphinha recorded 34 goals and 26 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions, and also matched Cristiano Ronaldo’s Champions League record with 21 goal contributions in a single tournament. Despite finishing as both the competition’s top scorer and top assister, his only official recognition in 2025 was being named La Liga MVP.

Raphinha backed by coach Flick

Raphinha’s reaction to the snubs gained widespread support on social media, but it was head coach Hansi Flick who offered the strongest public backing following the announcement of FIFA’s The Best XI.

Speaking ahead of the Villarreal match on Saturday’s press conference, Flick did not hold back: “I’m not happy that you’re not asking me, because there’s one situation… for me it’s not a big thing because I don’t care who’s the best or the best eleven. But this FIFA The Best XI players it’s a joke, really a joke. When I see that there’s no Raphinha, it’s unbelievable.

“Raphinha was a player whose influence in this team in the last season was the greatest. Also in the Champions League,” Flick said, highlighting his record. “This is really not fair to him, and for me it’s a joke. I can’t believe that he’s not in the best XI of the world, because after this season he deserved it. I think you totally agree with me,” the German boss concluded.

With departure from Tottenham being imminent, star Son Heung-min revealed why he decided to join MLS' LAFC despite having offer from the Premier League.

Son Heung-min turned into one of the blockbuster moves of the 2025 MLS season back in August, becoming the most expensive signing in league history. With his departure from Tottenham Hotspur imminent at the time, the South Korean star has now revealed why he chose to join Los Angeles FC despite having offers from the Premier League.

After lifting the 2024–25 UEFA Europa League trophy, Son decided to leave Tottenham following a decade at the North London club. Still playing a key role at age 33, questions quickly arose about his future, with reported interest in keeping his career in Europe, but the forward ultimately opted for a move to North America in a decision that sent shockwaves across the soccer world.

In the recently released documentary “Heung-Min Son: Homecoming” on Tottenham Hotspur’s YouTube channel, the star made a candid revelation about his decision: “Obviously, I probably had a lot of options, but I definitely didn’t want to go to another Premier League team, because I respect the club so much. I never want to face Spurs again.”

In the 14-minute video, which also details Son’s final days as a Tottenham player, he made clear that the bond he built since arriving in 2015 played a decisive role in choosing his next destination as a professional soccer player. “I’m only going to play for Spurs, I’m not going to play against Spurs,” he added.

Back at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after the conclusion of the 2025 MLS season, Son was also asked about his experience with LAFC so far, and the star made a bold comparison: “I think it’s right to say that in 2015, when I joined Spurs, I was very excited, I was very happy. I think that kind of feeling when I moved to LA, I think it’s the same.

“New environment, new challenge, and new weather,” he said with a laugh. “I think that changed everything, you know, changing to a different environment. I think it was just what I needed,” Son concluded. Now the face of LAFC, Son has already admitted he has his sights set on the MLS Cup, and at just 33 years old, his 12 goals and four assists in 13 games have raised expectations among fans.

Son and an emotional farewell

Beyond being Tottenham’s captain and leader, Son Heung-min was also known for his positivity and trademark smile off the pitch. However, during the club’s preseason tour to South Korea, a more emotional side of Son emerged during his farewell appearance.

Reflecting on his final match in a Tottenham jersey, a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United in his hometown, Son described the moment: “It was emotional. I never thought I was going to cry, like, that hard, but… as much as I was thinking of the past, the last decade, the 10 years, it just made me fell sorry and also feel very grateful. It was just everything, like, emotional over everything.

“I just couldn’t stop crying. I think it was just truly my emotions, I showed everything. Like, how I felt… in an emotional way,” Son said. Substituted in the second half, he received a guard of honor from both teammates and opponents, then sat on the bench unable to hold back tears, bringing a 10-year chapter to a close, one he has said he would not change for anything.

Kylian Mbappé hasn't only matched Cristiano Ronaldo's record at Real Madrid, but also one goalscoring record from legend Thierry Henry.

Kylian Mbappé made headlines over the weekend by matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary goalscoring mark at Real Madrid, capping off a historic 2025. However, another milestone flew somewhat under the radar, as the French star also tied a long-standing record held by compatriot and icon Thierry Henry.

Real Madrid hosted Sevilla to close out the calendar year, with Mbappé needing one goal to match Cristiano Ronaldo as the club’s top scorer in a single calendar year, at 59 goals. By converting a penalty in the 86th minute, Mbappé not only equaled the Portuguese star’s mark, but also reached a goalscoring milestone previously owned by another French legend.

On Saturday, Mbappé drew level with Thierry Henry as the second-highest French goalscorer in soccer history, reaching 411 career goals. The former Arsenal and Barcelona star had held that mark since retiring in 2014, and Mbappé has now matched it with his strike against Sevilla.

Since making his professional debut in 2015, Mbappé has built a reputation as one of the game’s most prolific finishers, scoring 256 goals for Paris Saint-Germain, 73 for Real Madrid, 27 for AS Monaco, and 55 for the France national team, totaling 411. Across competitions, Ligue 1 accounts for 191 of those goals, followed by the Champions League with 64 and La Liga with 49.

Fourth place on the all-time French scoring list has long been held by André-Pierre Gignac. While the veteran striker remains active and a club icon at Tigres UANL, his total of 358 goals now sits well behind Mbappé, and at 40 years old, it is unlikely he will close that gap.

At the top of the rankings sits Karim Benzema, who has scored 509 goals across his career and continues to add to his tally at Al Ittihad. Still, after turning 27 on December 20, Mbappé has time firmly on his side, and at his current pace, he appears well positioned to eventually challenge that mark, and potentially climb into the top 10 goalscorers in football history.

Mbappe already surpassed Henry with Les Bleus

A World Cup winner in 1998, EURO 2000 champion, Champions League winner, and two-time Golden Boot recipient, Thierry Henry cemented his legacy as one of France’s greatest-ever forwards. Yet Mbappé, still in the prime of his career, is steadily rewriting the national team’s record book.

In 2025, during the UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, Mbappé surpassed Henry to become France’s second-highest scorer with 51 goals. Now sitting at 55, the Real Madrid star has only Olivier Giroud, who leads with 57, directly in his sights as he closes in on the all-time Les Bleus scoring record.

Following AC Milan's struggles this season, they are already planning roster changes ahead of January 2026. In the defense line, Axel Disasi has been heavily linked with a move. Now, with a top Premier League player offered to the Rossoneri, the discussion has intensified.

Christian Pulisic has emerged as one of the top players in Serie A, spearheading AC Milan‘s offensive efforts. However, the team’s lack of roster depth has hindered its ability to maintain consistent results. Consequently, they are targeting the January transfer market to strengthen their squad by signing a center back. Axel Disasi has been linked to the team, although another defender from a leading Premier League club has also been offered.

According to Antonio Vitiello in Corriere dello Sport, Liverpool’s Joe Gomez has been offered to AC Milan by his representatives. After losing his starting spot, the English defender seems open to leaving the team. Nonetheless, the Reds are reportedly unwilling to let him depart due to a lack of depth at center-back and concerns over their current performance levels.

This is not the first instance of Joe Gomez being linked with AC Milan. In late August 2025, the Rossoneri allegedly reached an agreement for €15 million (around $17.6 million) but ultimately prioritized acquiring David Odogu instead. Valued at the same amount, the Italian side would be open to renewing this offer, a move the Englishman might consider to enhance his chances of playing in the 2026 World Cup with England.

Even with the potential arrival of the Englishman, Axel Disasi might still have a significant advantage in joining AC Milan. Without being part of Chelsea’s plans, his arrival could occur through a ‘low-cost’ loan for just six months. Given the financial issues facing the Rossoneri, the French star could be a viable option. However, Joe Gomez is reportedly seen as a ‘long-term’ solution and remains the preferred choice despite Liverpool’s reluctance to let him go.

Not only a defender: AC Milan are reportedly chasing some other adjustments

Throughout the start of the 2025–26 season, AC Milan have shown themselves to be quite short on squad depth, with the defense being one of the priority areas. Nevertheless, they have also struggled significantly in front of goal. With this in mind, the Rossoneri are reportedly close to finalizing the arrival of a center forward and loaning out a young defender from the team, reshaping their squad.

According to Andrea Ramazzotti in La Gazzetta dello Sport, David Odogu has not convinced head coach Massimiliano Allegri. While he is considered a player with great potential, AC Milan are reportedly considering sending him out on loan in January 2026 following the arrival of another defender, such as Joe Gomez or Axel Disasi, so that he can develop and gain playing time. Alongside this move, the Rossoneri have reportedly secured the arrival of a striker on loan.

AC Milan and West Ham United have reached an agreement for the arrival of Niclas Füllkrug. The 32-year-old striker will join on loan for €1.5 million, with a purchase option of €12–13 million. Far from being an undisputed starter, the German would be a clear option off the bench to break down defensive lines in certain matches, reports Andrea Ramazzotti. With this, the team gains a bit more balance, adapting more closely to head coach Massimiliano Allegri’s idea.

After being on the verge of finalizing the deal, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami could receive a major blow as their signing of an Argentine target is reportedly being hijacked by a South American giant.

Inter Miami have already begun the process of building a competitive squad around Lionel Messi as they look to build on last season’s success heading into 2026. However, the MLS side could suffer a significant setback in their squad planning, as one of the Herons’ priority transfer targets is now reportedly in negotiations with a South American giant.

One of the players Inter Miami have been working to sign in recent weeks is Facundo Mura. Set to become a free agent once his contract with Racing Club expires in December 2025, personal terms had been under discussion as the club looked to secure his arrival ahead of the 2026 season.

However, according to Argentine transfer expert Germán García Grova, River Plate have entered negotiations to sign Facundo Mura. On Saturday, key figures from the Argentine powerhouse reportedly contacted the right back in an effort to convince him to remain in the country rather than move to MLS.

As reported, Mura has requested 72 hours to make a final decision between Inter Miami, where negotiations are already at an advanced stage, and River Plate. Should the defender opt to stay in Argentina, the Herons would be forced back into the transfer market in search of alternative options.

The right back, a position to address in 2026

Between retirements, departures, and contract renewals, Inter Miami are in the midst of reshaping a squad that has already seen several members of their 2025 MLS Cup-winning team depart. While Messi has already been bolstered by the arrivals of Sergio Reguilón and Dayne St. Clair, right back remains a position the club is targeting ahead of the 2026 season.

With Marcelo Weigandt’s two-year loan set to expire at the end of 2025, the Argentine is not expected to return, leaving Ian Fray as the only natural right back currently on the roster. Defender Gonzalo Luján could serve as an emergency option, but his natural position is center back, and his profile leans more toward a defensive role.

Mura’s potential signing, viewed as a market opportunity given his free-agent status, had generated optimism within the club. Athletic and comfortable pushing forward, the right back was seen as a strong tactical fit and a potential complement to Messi on the right flank.

Now, Mura’s potential signing has been thrown into doubt, with Inter Miami forced to decide whether to improve their contractual offer to tip the balance in their favor or turn their attention to other available options. While there is still time before the start of the 2026 season, Mura remains the only right back the club has actively scouted and pursued over the last weeks, meaning this sudden shift could put the Herons under pressure to act quickly.

After finding the back of the net against Villarreal, FC Barcelona star has now closed in on a Kylian Mbappé’s goalscoring record in the 21st century.

Lamine Yamal continued his impressive run of form on Sunday, getting on the scoresheet as FC Barcelona secured all three points against Villarreal. With another goal added to his tally, the teenage sensation is now closing in on one of Kylian Mbappé’s notable 21st-century goalscoring records.

Barcelona traveled to Estadio de la Cerámica to face Villarreal on Matchday 18 of the 2025-26 La Liga season, looking to extend their lead at the top of the table. Facing a 10-man Villarreal side and already holding a 1-0 advantage, a series of rebounds inside the box led Frenkie de Jong to lay the ball off to Yamal, who fired a powerful strike to make it 2–0 in the 63rd minute.

With the goal, Lamine Yamal has now reached 21 goals in 87 La Liga appearances. The Barcelona star has become the second player with the most goals scored before turning 19 in Europe’s top five leagues during the 21st century.

The record is currently held by Kylian Mbappé, whose explosive emergence in Ligue 1 saw him score 23 goals before his 19th birthday. The current Real Madrid forward achieved the mark with AS Monaco between the 2015–16 and 2017–18 seasons, then added to it after completing his move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2018, before turning 19 later that year.

Yamal had already made history in 2023 by becoming the youngest goalscorer in La Liga history at just 16 years and 87 days old. Set to turn 19 on July 13, 2026, and now just two goals shy of Mbappé’s record, it appears only a matter of time before the Spanish prodigy adds another milestone to his rapidly growing résumé.

Yamal concludes 2025 in top form

Scoring has never been Lamine Yamal’s defining trait, with his dribbling, creativity, and ability to create space standing out, but 2025 has marked a breakthrough year in front of goal. The young winger has taken a significant step forward, setting the stage for what could be an even bigger 2026 in a World Cup year.

Across the 2025–26 season, Yamal has recorded eight goals and 11 assists in 19 appearances, while finishing the 2025 calendar year with 47 total goal contributions, one more than Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé. As he continues to develop and impress, Yamal has set a high standard heading into the new year.

Following Sergio Busquets’ retirement, Inter Miami are searching for a marquee reinforcement in midfield. Despite having already made an offer for a South American star, he will join another team, meaning Lionel Messi loses a potential key reinforcement for the squad ahead of 2026.

Lionel Messi is coming off a historic run with the Herons, having led the team to its first MLS Cup victory. However, Sergio Busquets’ retirement remains a significant concern, which has left the team actively searching the transfer market for replacements. Despite Inter Miami having made an offer for a South American star, the player chose to take another path.

A few weeks ago, Nicolás Fonseca of Club León emerged as Inter Miami’s leading candidate to replace Sergio Busquets. Although the Herons made a solid offer for his services, the Mexican club found it insufficient. Consequently, the Uruguayan star will not join Lionel Messi and will instead be sold to Real Oviedo, which, like Club León, are also owned by Grupo Pachuca, according to reports by César Luis Merlo.

Even though Fonseca’s failed arrival has complicated matters at Inter Miami, the team remains in pursuit of a stellar midfield reinforcement. With Federico Redondo’s departure to Elche CF, only Rodrigo de Paul is positioned to fill that role. Consequently, the Herons are reportedly targeting Koke Resurrección from Atlético Madrid, who could join as a free agent in July 2026. However, they still need to address the gap in January 2026, leaving the door open for other options.

Rather than settling for a solid player, the Herons are seeking a world-class star for their midfield. Despite being 33 years old, Koke could provide a significant boost with his defensive rigor and ability to create offensive opportunities. Nonetheless, Inter Miami might consider re-signing Baltasar Rodriguez to partner with De Paul, maintaining the pair through summer 2026 alongside the veteran Spaniard, should no other top star join earlier.

Inter Miami are already overhauling the roster for 2026 season

To maintain competitiveness, Javier Mascherano will oversee a revamped roster featuring several notable changes. Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have retired, while Marcelo Weigandt, Fafa Picault, Ryan Sailor, Rocco Ríos Novo, and William Yarbrough will not return to Inter Miami in 2026. Additionally, the futures of Allen Obando, Baltasar Rodríguez, and Tadeo Allende remain uncertain. In response, the Herons have already initiated several key moves.

With the renewal of Luis Suárez’s contract and the arrival of Sergio Reguilón, Inter Miami kick off a strong start in reshaping the roster. Alongside them, Dayne St. Clair will serve as the team’s new goalkeeper, according to Germán García. Additionally, Facundo Mura is in advanced negotiations to finalize his transfer. Meanwhile, the Herons are actively assessing potential reinforcements for their midfield, making the January 2026 transfer window particularly enticing.

Kylian Mbappe has significantly stepped up at Real Madrid, leading the offense during a challenging period. After breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's record, he broke his silence, clarified his relationship with the Portuguese player, and made a notable confession.

Although Real Madrid have not started the 2025-26 season in top form, Kylian Mbappe has managed to shine, leading the team through the crisis. Following this, the Frenchman has been crowned the cornerstone of the team, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo‘s record of 59 goals in a calendar year. Upon achieving this, the 27-year-old star made some surprising statements, talking about his relationship with the Portuguese and his key role in adapting to the team.

“It’s incredible, in my first [full] year to be able to do what Cristiano did. [He’s] my idol, the best player in Real Madrid‘s history. The celebration is for him. I wanted to give him a shout-out because he’s always been good to me, he’s helped me adapt to Madrid, and now it’s great to help Madrid win games. Today I wanted to share that with him. I have a very good relationship with him, he’s my friend now,” Kylian Mbappe said following the latest game vs Sevilla.

Kylian Mbappé has proven himself more than capable of leading Real Madrid. Since joining the club, he has netted 73 goals and recorded 10 assists across 83 matches. With his recent penalty goal against Sevilla, the Frenchman has notched 59 goals in 58 appearances, etching his name into the club’s storied history. At only 27 years old, he is poised to shatter many more records for the team.

While the Frenchman has already equaled the record, Cristiano Ronaldo still holds an insurmountable advantage in this category. The Portuguese star scored 59 goals in just 50 matches with Real Madrid, needing eight fewer games than Kylian. With this, the veteran shows his enormous impact at the club, as his scoring rate led him to become the club’s all-time leading scorer, something Mbappé is still a long way from matching.

Mbappe overcomes Cristiano’s scoring prowess with 27 years

Far from seeking to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy, Kylian Mbappe has made it clear that he wants to write his own chapter in soccer history. Although the Frenchman has yet to win the Ballon d’Or or the UEFA Champions League, he has already begun to carve out a unique path in the sport that establishes him as one of the leaders of the current generation. In fact, he has already surpassed the Portuguese player in terms of goals scored, with both players aged 27.

According to OneFootball, Cristiano Ronaldo managed to score 272 goals and contribute 106 assists in 531 matches at just 27 years old. At the same age, Kylian Mbappé has clearly surpassed the Portuguese star by scoring 417 goals and providing 178 assists in 559 matches. For this reason, the Frenchman stands out with an impressive scoring rate as he chases the veteran’s imposing scoring record in the soccer history.

In case Kylian Mbappé looks to match or surpass Cristiano Ronaldo’s scoring dominance, he needs to maintain this scoring rate over the years, something the Portuguese star has managed by remaining the top scorer for Al Nassr. For this reason, the French star may be on a good path to breaking many records, but he still needs time to come close to matching Ronaldo at a historical scoring level.

Vasco da Gama and Corinthians face each other in the second leg of the 2025 Copa do Brasil final. Fans across the USA can follow every moment, with complete kickoff details and broadcast information available on both television and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

The Copa do Brasil final delivers a high-stakes showdown as Corinthians and Vasco da Gama meet with a trophy and bragging rights hanging in the balance. Corinthians arrive after a turbulent Brasileirao campaign that ended in 13th place but still good enough to punch a ticket to the Copa Sudamericana.

Meanwhile, Vasco steadied the ship late in the season to avoid the drop and secure continental qualification of their own. With both teams carrying uneven league form yet peaking at the right time, this winner-take-all matchup promises urgency, intensity and drama from the opening whistle.