While stating that the squad list is still open, head coach Carlo Ancelotti set the conditions to Neymar to make his return to the Brazil national team for the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar’s decision to sign a new deal with Santos was driven by his plan to regain full fitness and push for a return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. While acknowledging that the final roster is still not set, head coach Carlo Ancelotti made clear that there are firm conditions Neymar must meet to be included in Brazil’s plans.

Since Ancelotti took over as Brazil’s head coach, Neymar’s potential return to the national team has remained a constant topic of discussion. However, a combination of recurring injuries and frank conversations between the star and the Italian manager has delayed that comeback, raising questions about Neymar’s availability for what he hopes will be his final World Cup.

Speaking Monday at a CBF event in Rio de Janeiro announcing a new sponsor, Ancelotti addressed whether the World Cup list has already been defined: “It is not decided. At the first press conference, I said that Brazil is fortunate to have many good players. The list is not closed, but we are close to the final squad. There are some positions that are not completely defined.“

That statement immediately fueled speculation about Neymar’s chances, particularly after Ancelotti described him as “the most talented player in the country.” Still, the coach drew a clear line regarding the forward’s physical condition. “If he’s 100 percent physically, not 80 percent,” Ancelotti stressed.

Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil came on Oct. 17, 2023, against Uruguay in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, when he suffered a torn ACL that sidelined him for more than a year. Since then, four different head coaches have occupied Brazil’s bench, including Ancelotti, yet the former Barcelona star has not been recalled.

At present, Neymar continues his recovery with Santos after undergoing knee surgery last year to repair a meniscus injury. The forward has returned to training with Peixe, and expectations are that he could make his return to the pitch next Wednesday in the Brasileirão clash against São Paulo.

Brazil’s preparations before 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup could mark the final appearance for a core group of Canarinha veterans, including Casemiro (33), Alex Sandro (35), Alisson (33), Marquinhos (31) and, of course, Neymar (33). As part of the buildup, Brazil face a challenging schedule designed to help Ancelotti refine his squad.

Brazil’s next matches will come during the March international window, beginning with a showdown against France on the 26th, followed by a clash with Croatia on the 31st. Additional friendlies ahead of the tournament have yet to be confirmed, with Brazil set to open their World Cup campaign on June 13 against Morocco, a match many fans hope will feature Neymar back in the Seleção lineup.

San Diego play against Pumas UNAM in the first leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup first round. Below is all the key information you need, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and options to watch or live stream the match in the USA.

Match Overview

A marquee CONCACAF Champions Cup matchup is set as Liga MX contender Pumas UNAM collides with MLS newcomer San Diego FC in a game that promises early-tournament drama. Pumas bring proven international experience and strong early form.

On the other hand, will be San Diego, who came to this game with confidence after a standout 2025 season that carried the club to the MLS semifinals. With contrasting styles and plenty at stake, this is a must-watch showdown—don’t miss it.

An Argentine legend provided some advice to Real Madrid's Franco Mastantuono, using Lamine Yamal as an example.

Most players are currently under fire in Real Madrid amid a disappointing season. While much of the criticism targets the stars, promising youngster Franco Mastantuono has also come under scrutiny. Argentina legend Mario Kempes has offered his view about the player, using Lamine Yamal as an example.

Advice comes from all directions, but one voice with the experience to guide young players is Kempes. The World Cup winner in 1978 recently compared what Mastantuono should do with what the Barcelona star has been doing.

In an interview with Argentinian streamer Rodrigo Rea, Kempes said: “He must be more aggressive. Play like he did on River Plate. Look at Yamal. He dribbles, he shoots on goal. He makes mistakes, a few, but he continues trying. If he doesn’t do that, he won’t last much”.

The first few months of Mastantuono with his new club have not been good. The expectations were high for the $60 million transfer, but his role in the team is now being questioned. So far, he has appeared in 23 matches, scoring three goals, leaving his spot in the starting eleven uncertain each week.

Kempes on Real Madrid’s pressure

Something very noticeable about Kempes statements on Mastantuono regards the club he is in. The Valencia legend knows very well the pressure that fans can put onto the players if the results aren’t coming their way.

Despite having played in a famous club in Argentina, Kempes remarks this is even more difficult. “It’s not River or Boca. This is Real Madrid. In this club you must win even in the training sessions.”

Lastly, he referred to Mastantuono’s effort. “He has to make more sacrifices than the rest of his teammates. He has to run more than Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius, even Rodrygo. He’s mature but he has to demonstrate his talent on the field”.

Amid reported interest from Manchester United in bringing Marcus Rashford back, reports indicate the forward is willing to do whatever it takes to stay at Barcelona.

Marcus Rashford has exceeded expectations in his first months at Barcelona, prompting the Spanish club to consider keeping him beyond this season. His strong performances have also reignited Manchester United’s interest in re-signing him.

A few days ago, Telegraph Sport reported that Michael Carrick intends to bring Rashford back if he becomes Manchester United’s permanent head coach, impressed by what he has seen from the forward in Spain this season.

That possibility, however, depends on several factors. The first is whether Barcelona exercise their purchase option for Rashford, reportedly around $40 million. The second, of course, is the player’s own willingness—and that is where one of the main hurdles lies.

“Marcus Rashford has no intention of returning to Manchester United from Barcelona this summer,” The Mirror reported Tuesday. “And Rashford wants his long-term future resolved before England head to the 2026 World Cup in North America.”

But that’s not all. Knowing Barcelona’s financial challenges, which could complicate a permanent move, the English forward is even ready to make a personal sacrifice to help the deal go through. “Rashford is willing to renegotiate his annual wages and accept reduced terms, if it helps seal a deal with Barca,” the report adds.

Manchester United not an option for Rashford right now

Marcus Rashford’s future has been the subject of speculation in recent months, with all kinds of rumors circulating. However, there is one point on which all reports agree: the forward wants to stay at Barcelona beyond the one-year loan. “Rashford is loving life in Spain—and has told Barca he wants to remain at the Nou Camp,” The Mirror reports.

Still, the English star is aware that this desire may not become reality, especially given Barcelona’s financial constraints. Even in that scenario, a return to Manchester remains unlikely.

“It’s understood that even if Barca failed to meet the asking price, Rashford would look to join another club, rather than go back to United,” The Mirror adds, making it clear that Marcus has no intention of rejoining the Red Devils at this stage of his professional career.

After several months of uncertainty surrounding his future, Barcelona are reportedly said to have made a final decision regarding Robert Lewandowski’s future. In light of this, the Polish is said to have set a deadline to define his professional path, with several offers already on the table.

Robert Lewandowski’s arrival at Barcelona has been an undeniable success. Despite criticism of his €45 million signing due to his veteran status, he has established himself as a top performer, scoring 113 goals in 173 matches. However, the Polish striker has lost his starting position to Ferran Torres, leaving his future uncertain. While the Blaugrana have supposedly decided on his continuity, Lewandowski has set a deadline to determine his own future.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2025–26 season, Lewandowski has shown strong interest in extending his deal and is reportedly willing to take a pay cut. However, Barcelona have begun planning for next season without the Polish striker in their plans, reports RAC1. As a result, the Blaugranas have turned their attention to signing a new forward, aiming to rejuvenate the competition up front.

According to Polish journalist Tomasz Włodarczyk, Robert Lewandowski has set April 2026 as the deadline to make a definitive decision about his professional future. In that context, Chicago Fire have emerged as the frontrunners to secure his services, having held a meeting with him in December 2025. However, the veteran has also received inquiries from Saudi Arabia, keeping all options open.

Lewandowski’s possible departure from Barcelona will be quite difficult for coach Hansi Flick. Despite betting on Ferran, the Polish striker remains crucial to the team, scoring 12 goals in 26 games and proving instrumental in key matches like the Champions League and El Clásico. If they wish to prioritize the Spaniard, finding a substitute capable of matching the veteran’s goal-scoring ability from the bench or in select games will be challenging.

Barcelona reportedly have two forwards on their list for 2026-27

Following the possible departure of Lewandowski, Barcelona have decided to enter the summer 2026 market in search of a world-class center forward. While betting on the versatility of Ferran Torres, they are reportedly looking for a specialist in attack, capable of providing a guaranteed goal output. As a result, they are said to have two forwards at the top of their priority list as they look for a replacement for Robert and his scoring power.

According to Diario Sport, Julián Álvarez remains Barcelona’s absolute top priority to strengthen the attack. However, Atlético Madrid would not make his exit easy, which could force Barcelona to pay more than $100 million for his transfer. Meanwhile, Dušan Vlahović has also emerged as the alternative option, as he would arrive as a free agent from Juventus and talks have reportedly already begun, according to Diego Pico of Marca.

In case the arrival of the Argentine star is secured, Ferran Torres would move into a backup role in the attack and remain an option on the wings. However, the arrival of Vlahović would allow for much greater opportunities for him to gain minutes, as the Serbian is not arriving in peak form compared to the Spaniard, who is the team’s top scorer in the current season. With this in mind, Barcelona may already have clear plans in place for the post–Robert Lewandowski era.

Olimpia will face Club America in the first leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup first round. Below is all the key information you need, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and options to watch or live stream the match in the USA.

Match Overview

A marquee CONCACAF showdown is set to grab attention as two regional powerhouses collide, with Club America stepping onto the continental stage carrying championship expectations. The Liga MX heavyweights enter the contest as a leading Champions Cup favorite, leaning on their experience, depth, and big-game DNA even as they search for consistency at home.

Standing in the way is Honduras’ Olimpia, a proud club eager to test itself against elite opposition, embrace the underdog role, and prove it belongs among the region’s best with a statement performance. With contrasting narratives and plenty on the line, this is the kind of international matchup fans won’t want to miss—make sure you tune in when the whistle blows.

While drawing criticism at Real Madrid, France head coach Didier Deschamps backed Kylian Mbappé's "selfishness."

Kylian Mbappé has been enjoying an outstanding 2025-26 season on an individual level, but Real Madrid have fallen short of expectations as a collective. Amid the contrast between elite personal production and inconsistent team results, France head coach Didier Deschamps has stepped in to defend the star forward’s perceived “selfishness.”

Mbappé’s numbers alone place him firmly in the Golden Boot conversation, with 37 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions for Real Madrid. Still, one of the most persistent criticisms of his game has centered on his limited defensive work rate, particularly his lack of high pressing when the team is out of possession.

That criticism prompted a response from Deschamps, who spoke at the Sports Journalism Festival in Laval, France. “We have this image of someone who is very selfish and individualistic,” he stated. “Of course, he is a striker; it would be a problem if he didn’t have a certain level of ego… I assure you that, in terms of how things work and everything else, he is someone who knows that since becoming captain, his word carries weight with the entire group.“

Similar concerns were raised during Mbappé’s final seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, where his defensive effort was often questioned under coach Luis Enrique. A widely shared clip from a 2024 Movistar+ documentary showed Enrique scolding Mbappé over his pressing responsibilities, reinforcing the idea that defensive intensity was never a defining trait of his game and contributing to tensions before his eventual departure.

In that context, Deschamps emphasized that the focus should remain on what Mbappé brings offensively: “If you want to judge Kylian by saying he has to run at least 11 kilometers per match… don’t bother, he won’t do it. But, on the other hand, he has many other important and decisive qualities.“

Mbappé’s production with the France national team further supports Deschamps’ stance. He has scored 55 goals in 94 appearances for Les Bleus and now sits just two goals shy of Olivier Giroud’s all-time scoring record. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Deschamps appears unconcerned about anything beyond Mbappé’s ability to deliver goals.

Mbappé on pace for his best goalscoring season

High pressing became a hallmark of Luis Enrique’s PSG during last season’s Champions League run, but Mbappé’s departure has not slowed his scoring output. Despite Real Madrid’s instability following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal and Álvaro Arbeloa’s appointment, the Frenchman remains on track for the most prolific season of his career.

Mbappé’s personal best for goals in a single club season stands at 44, a mark he has reached twice: once at PSG and once during his debut campaign with Real Madrid. He currently sits at 37 goals in the 2025-26 season, with at least 18 matches remaining and three months still to play. With just eight goals needed to set a new benchmark, expectations are high for Mbappé to continue rewriting his own record books.

Although Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of Al Nassr's best players, his future with the team seems uncertain. In light of this, the Portuguese striker is linked with a possible return to Manchester United, which have reportedly made a decision.

Cristiano Ronaldo has managed to stay in top form with Al Nassr, emerging as the team’s top scorer in the 2025-26 season. However, the Portuguese player is reportedly quite unhappy with the team’s lack of reinforcements. Given this, the veteran’s future with the team has been called into question, leading to speculation about a possible return to Manchester United. In response, the Red Devils have reportedly made a clear decision.

Far from easing, the situation between Cristiano Ronaldo and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) has intensified, as he decided to skip Al Nassr training. As a result, the veteran’s future is now under scrutiny, as he appears increasingly unhappy with the club’s management, opening the door to a potential exit. Because of this, he has been linked with a possible return to Manchester United, and the team seems to have already made a decision.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester United have decided not to pursue Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford in the summer of 2026. Despite the veteran reportedly being open to a significant wage reduction, the English side have chosen to stick with INEOS’ strategy, focusing on young players with potential and prioritizing the club’s long-term sustainability.

Having a valid contract until 2027, Cristiano Ronaldo might not have an easy task leaving Al Nassr. Unlike Benzema, the Portuguese player may not secure an agreement to release his contract. While he reportedly holds a €50 million clause to leave the team, being 40 years old makes him a difficult player for many teams to pursue. For that reason, the veteran striker may still be forced to remain with the Saudi Arabian team.

Ronaldo supposedly has no issues with Al Nassr, but rather with PIF

Cristiano Ronaldo’s future remains uncertain, but his issues stem not from Al Nassr, but from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF). While Al Nassr have actively sought to strengthen their squad throughout the transfer window, that PIF and the league have reportedly blocked these moves. With this in mind, the Portuguese striker supposedly believes that his team has been mistreated compated to its rival, Al Hilal.

Unlike Al Nassr, Al Hilal were given the opportunity to sign top-level players such as Mohamed Meïté, Saïmon Nadélia Bouabré, and Karim Benzema. After this moves, they strengthen their position as favorites to win the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League Elite. However, Cristiano Ronaldo lost Wesley Gassova and Haroune Camara in the offense, and they only reinforced themselves with local talent, which leaves them behind their direct rival.

Amid speculation surrounding his future at Real Madrid, Vinicius Junior has been mentioned in connection with a potential return to Flamengo.

Despite being one of the best players in the world, Vinicius Junior has seen his role at Real Madrid diminish in recent months. This is partly due to Kylian Mbappe, who has emerged as the team’s undisputed star and pushed the Brazilian into a secondary role. In that context, Flamengo have emerged as an unexpected option.

This week, the Brazilian club officially presented Lucas Paqueta, who returned to Flamengo after eight years following his transfer from West Ham United. During his introductory press conference, Vinicius’ name was brought up as a potential future target.

“Now, what comes next is to talk about Vinicius Junior,” Flamengo sporting director Jose Boto said, according to ESPN, before addressing Real Madrid president Florentino Perez directly. “When does his contract end, president? We won’t have to pay anything to Real Madrid.”

Those remarks, while delivered in a joking tone, reflect a genuine ambition from the Brazilian giants: to continue strengthening their squad with top-level signings in order to move closer to competing with Europe’s elite clubs.

When does Vinicius’ contract with Real Madrid expire?

The idea of Flamengo seriously pursuing Vinicius may seem far-fetched, but in the not-so-distant future it could become more realistic. The Brazilian winger is under contract with Real Madrid until June 30, 2027, with a release clause set at €1 billion (approximately $1.18 billion).

That figure makes an early departure virtually impossible unless Real Madrid are willing to negotiate his exit for a lower fee. However, if uncertainty continues over time, anything could happen. While there have been reports of potential contract extension talks, no agreement has been reached so far.

As the deadline approaches, Real Madrid will likely move decisively in one of two directions: either convincing Vinicius to sign an extension or actively negotiating a transfer to another club in order to secure a significant fee. But if the player holds firm, he could leave as a free agent in mid-2027.

Flamengo excited about Paqueta’s return

Beyond the speculation surrounding Vinicius, Flamengo have plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The club has secured the return of Lucas Paqueta, another homegrown star who remains in his prime and is aiming to be part of Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Without Paqueta’s willingness, this transfer would have been impossible, no matter how strong our financial situation is,” Boto said at the same press conference. “Everything he did with his staff to be here was crucial. That shows how much he loves Flamengo. At this price, there were 10 or 15 European clubs that wanted him.”

Still without a club after leaving Club León, James Rodríguez could end up joining Lionel Messi in MLS, as one club is reportedly in advanced talks to sign the Colombian star.

Lionel Messi has dramatically raised Major League Soccer’s profile since his arrival in 2023, fueling league-wide growth and increasing its global competitiveness. Now, James Rodríguez could become the latest South American star to follow that path, as one MLS club is reportedly exploring a move for the Colombian midfielder ahead of the 2026 season.

Rodríguez’s club situation has become a growing concern for the Colombia national team. Since his stint with Liga MX side Club León ended, the veteran midfielder has struggled to secure a new destination. Currently training individually as he prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Rodríguez could receive a timely boost with interest emerging from North America.

According to The Athletic’s Tom Bogert, Minnesota United are targeting Rodríguez for the 2026 MLS season. After a playoff run that ended in the Western Conference semifinals, the Loons are reportedly looking to add a high-profile piece to elevate their roster and push deeper into contention.

Recent reports indicated that Rodríguez had also been offered to two Argentine clubs, though financial concerns quickly surfaced as a major hurdle. Minnesota United have now emerged as the leading candidate to land the Colombian, positioning themselves ahead of other suitors following his departure from León.

Here we go pic.twitter.com/ZCF8zUYo4z

— James Rodríguez (@jamesdrodriguez) February 3, 2026

Over the last few hours, the Colombian star shared a photo of himself on a plane with the caption “Here we go.” Amid growing rumors regarding his future, this cryptic message is being interpreted as a sign that his move to MLS is nearing completion.

Minnesota United are set to begin preseason friendlies in the coming days, with their MLS opener scheduled for Feb. 21 against Austin FC. Rodríguez, meanwhile, has not appeared in a competitive match since Nov. 8 against Puebla, raising questions about his match fitness ahead of a potential move.

Could Minnesota United afford James Rodríguez?

One of the primary obstacles in Rodríguez’s recent transfer discussions has been his financial demands. Barcelona SC president David Álvarez previously confirmed that the midfielder was offered to the Ecuadorian club, but the deal was abandoned due to concerns it would strain the team’s finances.

Minnesota United, however, have been relatively quiet in the transfer market. Their most notable addition has been Mauricio González, signed from Deportes Tolima for approximately $1.2 million. While Rodríguez would significantly raise the team’s ceiling, MLS roster and salary restrictions could complicate any potential deal.

Currently, Minnesota’s Designated Player slots are occupied by Joaquín Pereyra, Tomás Chancalay, and striker Kelvin Yeboah. With all three slots filled, it remains unclear whether the Loons can realistically meet Rodríguez’s financial expectations under league rules, making his MLS future far from certain.

Neymar is nearing a return with Santos after a knee procedure.

Neymar has been one of the greatest players of the past decade. His highs have been spectacular and frequent, but his lows have become increasingly common in recent years. This time, however, something positive may be on the horizon for Santos fans.

After being out since December with a knee injury, the Brazilian star is nearing his return. According to Diario Do Peixe, Ney was part of Santos training on Monday without any setbacks, completing a full session that included ball work.

While the exact comeback date remains uncertain, there is a chance he may suit up again soon. Per the Brazilian outlet, Neymar could be back on Wednesday’s Brazilian Serie A match against Sao Paulo, in front of his home fans at Urbano Caldeira Stadium.

What was Neymar’s injury?

Neymar is getting ready to play his first match of the year, if he finally gets the green light from Santos’ coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda. The Brazilian forward has been recovering from an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee to repair a meniscus injury.

The injury doesn’t require much time to heal, but his history with these types of problems may force the team to take a cautious approach. ESPN reported that he has been focusing on strengthening his left knee with specific exercises.

But that may not be the case entirely for Neymar if he wants to be in World Cup. He hasn’t played for the national team since 2023 mostly because of a torn ACL. While Carlo Ancelotti probably considers him an important piece, the competition he has is very good.

Neymar won’t have margin for error with Ancelotti

Ancelotti was brought in to correct course in a turbulent time for Brazil. Their standard must always be to win the World Cup, but the qualifiers suggested that a change was needed.

The Italian manager has won almost everywhere he has coached and has led star-studded squads throughout his career, giving him the experience to manage players at the highest level. Under his leadership, Neymar will have little margin for error.

“There are many players who are very good, I need to choose players that are 100%. It’s not just Neymar, it could be Vinícius. If Vini is at 90%, I’ll call up another player who is at 100%. It’s a team that has a very high level of competence, especially up front. We have really many good players”, he said to Esporte Record.

Forge host Tigres UANL in the first leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup first round. Below is all the key information you need, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and options to watch or live stream the match in the USA.

Match Overview

CONCACAF’s top club tournament gets underway with a first-round showdown that pairs experience, history, and plenty of intrigue. Tigres UANL, the 2020 champions, enter the competition looking to reset the narrative after a sluggish start to their Liga MX season.

Meanwhile, Forge FC arrive with confidence and the belief they can spring an early surprise against one of the region’s heavyweight clubs. With two well-known sides colliding at the very start of the tournament and a place in the next round on the line, this opening matchup has all the ingredients for must-see soccer.

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.

After solidifying his status as a key player alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina, a prominent national team figure is reportedly eyeing a high-profile transfer. He has reportedly offer himself to Real Madrid in bold post-2026 World Cup move.

Following several years, Lionel Messi has managed to lead Argentina into becoming one of the best national teams in the world. Beyond the veteran’s impact, coach Lionel Scaloni has built a very complete squad. With most of the players expected to be in peak form heading into the 2026 World Cup, one of the national team’s most important figures has reportedly offered himself to Real Madrid for a move after the anticipated tournament.

According to Eduardo Inda of OK Diario, Enzo Fernández has decided to take a step forward and offer himself to Real Madrid. Despite being a key figure and captain at Chelsea, the Argentine is willing to leave the English club, as playing for Los Blancos is a deeply personal dream, which he has reportedly made clear to the club. However, the two parties have not yet entered into formal negotiations for the midfielder.

Enzo’s potential transfer to Real Madrid would be anything but straightforward. As captain of the Blues, and having transferred for €121 million in 2023, Los Blancos might have to match or exceed that fee to bring him in after the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. Even though he is a standout player on Lionel Messi’s squad, investing such a significant sum would place him in the company of signings like Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale.

In case Real Madrid fail to secure his arrival before the 2026 World Cup, they could face an uphill battle to sign him. As a cornerstone in Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Enzo Fernandez could again shine in the tournament, making Chelsea reluctant to sell him or even increase his value, complicating his arrival to the Spanish side. With a priority settled on chasing an organizing midfielder, the 25-year-old star could emerge as a key solution for their current problems.

Real Madrid’s serious midfield problems raise doubts for the 2026-27

After the departures of Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, Real Madrid remained relatively calm in the transfer market, as they have six midfielders and expected them to step up. However, they found themselves with several box-to-box–type midfielders who are quite similar to one another, leaving a clear lack of an organizing profile. While Enzo would be the ideal solution, the club could be forced to part ways with one of their current midfielders.

With Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham being a cornerstone in Real Madrid project, both stars are expected to remain in the team, but the Englishman could take a right winger role. Moreover, Aurelien Tchouameni remains as the sole defensive midfielder in the roster, potentially keeping his spot. With this in mind, Eduardo Camavinga could be forced to leave the team, leaving a gap for Enzo Fernandez and holding Arda Guler as his backup.

In case any midfielder leaves Real Madrid, they could have seven midfielders for just three spots with Enzo’s arrival. For that reason, some players might be forced to readapt their positions, such as Camavinga in the left back. Nonetheless, Franco Mastantuono could be left in a secondary role, as Bellingham could take a more offensive role with Brahim as his backup. For that reason, the Spanish side may face a difficult task to compound the midfield.

Looking for a place in the final, Arsenal and Chelsea are facing each other at the Emirates Stadium for the Carabao Cup semifinals.

Arsenal host Chelsea in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal after edging the first meeting 3-2, giving the Gunners a narrow advantage heading into the return fixture. With a spot in the season’s first major final on the line, both London rivals are going all out at Emirates Stadium.

The hosts enter the match in strong form following a dominant 4-0 win over Leeds United, a result that kept them top of the Premier League with 53 points from 24 matches. Chelsea, meanwhile, have built momentum since the first leg, riding a five-game winning streak under new head coach Liam Rosenior.

On the other side of the Carabao Cup bracket, Manchester City and Newcastle United are battling for the second place in the final, with City holding a 2-0 advantage ahead of Wednesday’s second leg. While Mikel Arteta and Arsenal are aiming to end their trophy drought dating back to the 2023 Community Shield, Chelsea are looking to launch a new era under Rosenior following Enzo Maresca’s dismissal.

Bukayo Saka a major doubt for Arsenal

One of Arsenal’s biggest concerns surrounds Bukayo Saka, who was ruled out of the win over Leeds United after suffering an unexpected injury. The England international picked up a muscle issue during warm-up prior to that match, casting doubt over his availability for the crucial clash against Chelsea.

Speaking at Monday’s press conference, Arteta addressed Saka’s status ahead of the semifinal: “We have to wait. Today he was better but we have to wait and see how he responds, and then make the decision. It doesn’t look like something too serious. Whether he’s going to be available for tomorrow or the weekend, we’ll see.“

Arsenal and Chelsea’s confirmed lineups

Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): Kepa Arrizabalaga; Jurrien Timber, William Salibá, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Martinelli.
Head coach: Mikel Arteta.

Chelsea’s confirmed lineup (3-5-2): Robert Sanchez; Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Jorrel Hato; Malo Gusto, Moses Caicedo, Andrey Santos, Enzo Fernandez, Marc Cucurella; Liam Delap, Joao Pedro.
Head coach: Liam Rosenior.

Barcelona face Albacete in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, and Raphinha will not be part of the squad.

With more than half the season already gone, Barcelona are one of the few teams in Spain still competing on all three fronts: La Liga, UEFA Champions League, and Copa del Rey. The latter is reaching its decisive stages, and this Tuesday the Blaugranas will aim for a spot in the semifinals when they take on Albacete. Despite the importance of the match, Raphinha will be absent.

“Raphinha is suffering from an overload in the adductor muscle of his right leg,” Barcelona announced Monday in a statement on social media. “As a precaution, he will miss tomorrow’s match against Albacete, and his recovery period is expected to be one week.”

This leaves Hansi Flick without one of his most decisive players. The Brazilian winger has been a key part of the team since the German coach’s arrival in 2024, forming a fearsome attacking trio alongside Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski.

In fact, this season Raphinha has stood out with 13 goals and 5 assists in 22 matches across all competitions. However, physical issues—especially a hamstring injury—have sidelined him for 10 games this campaign.

Other injured Barcelona players

Raphinha’s absence is a big blow for Barcelona, considering the winger’s importance to the team and his goal contributions. However, he is not the only key player missing for the Albacete clash.

Another star of the squad, Pedri, will also be unavailable for the Copa del Rey match. The Spanish midfielder has been recovering for 14 days from a right hamstring injury sustained on January 21 against Slavia Praha in the Champions League. Joining him on the sidelines are Gavi and Andreas Christensen, both out with more serious injuries.

Who will replace Raphinha against Albacete?

As has happened in previous matches without Raphinha, his spot on the left wing will be taken by Marcus Rashford. The English forward has adapted well in his first year at the club and has stats that would make him a guaranteed starter on almost any other European team, giving coach Flick full confidence in him.

Barcelona’s confirmed lineup against Albacete in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals is: Joan Garcia; Joao Cancelo, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin; Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Marcus Rashford.

𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐔𝐏 ️🔵🔴#AlbaceteBarça pic.twitter.com/syEvaoCgEe

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 3, 2026

After several seasons at Al Ittihad, N’Golo Kanté appeared to be heading toward an exit from the club, with a move to Fenerbahçe on the cards. However, an error caused the Frenchman's transfer to collapse. In response, he has reportedly made a decisive decision, leaving his intentions clear.

Following several standout years at Chelsea, N’Golo Kanté made the surprising decision to join Al Ittihad as a free agent in 2023. Far from dimming his best version, the Frenchman has remained one of the team’s top players. Despite this, he was reportedly set to move to Fenerbahçe, but a curious error caused the deal to collapse. In response, the 34-year-old star has reportedly made a decisive decision at Al Ittihad.

According to Florian Plettenberg, Al Ittihad and Fenerbahçe reached an agreement for the transfer of N’Golo Kanté. The deal was closed at €4 million and included Youssef En-Nesyri moving to the Arab club. With this, the Frenchman was set for a triumphant return to European leagues, signing a contract through 2028. However, the entire operation collapsed due to an error reported by the Turkish club, which brought the case to light.

“The transfer process involving Al Ittihad Club, N’Golo Kanté, and Youssef En-Nesyri has been meticulously managed by our club in line with our plans and with utmost care in all respects… The documents regarding the transfer registration have been uploaded to the system correctly… However, due to the erroneous entry of the relevant TMS information by the opposing club, the procedures could not be completed within the transfer registration period,” Fenerbahçe announced, via X.

Given the advanced stage of the deal and Al Ittihad’s alleged mistake, N’Golo Kanté made a surprising decision. According to Ben Jacobs on X, formerly Twitter, he refused to train with the team today as he continues to pursue a move to Fenerbahçe. His departure would be a significant setback, as the team failed to secure Gustavo Sa and has already lost Karim Benzema. Additionally, replacing Kanté would be impossible now that the transfer window has closed.

Kanté still chases his arrival to Fenerbahce amid a FIFA complain

Although the transfer window has officially closed, N’Golo Kanté remains determined to secure a move to Fenerbahçe. According to L’Équipe, the Turkish club has decided to officially appeal to FIFA and is now awaiting a formal ruling. In light of this, the Frenchman has reportedly decided to explore all his options by skipping training, as he aims to ensure his return to European leagues.

Al Ittihad secured a young striker as Benzema’s successor

Following Karim Benzema’s departure, Youssef En-Nesyri had been tipped as the Frenchman’s successor, meaning his exit could represent a major blow for the club. However, they reportedly had an ace up their sleeve, as they moved to secure the arrival of a young striker. According to Fabrizio Romano, Georges Ilenikhena will become a new Al Ittihad player after the club agreed to pay €33 million to AS Monaco for his transfer, securing a replacement for the veteran Frenchman.

Following their previous draw against AS Roma, AC Milan face Bologna, seeking a victory that will help them close the gap with Inter Milan at the top of Serie A. Nonetheless, the Rossoneri will face the difficult absence of Christian Pulisic due to a recent injury.

AC Milan started the 2025-26 season in top form, even becoming leaders of Serie A for several weeks. However, they have accumulated a series of inconsistencies, losing the top spot. In fact, the Rossoneri are coming off a draw against AS Roma, losing key points. They face Bologna today, looking for a victory that will allow them to return to their best form. Nevertheless, coach Massimiliano Allegri holds a big challenge as Christian Pulisic will be absent in today’s game.

Although Christian Pulisic has been a mainstay under coach Massimiliano Allegri in recent matches, the USMNT star will miss the Rossoneri’s game against Bologna, as he is not even in the bench. According to Gianluca Di Marzio and Antonio Vitiello, the 27-year-old has been diagnosed with bursitis, which sidelines him for the match. This setback marks his third injury of the season, hindering his otherwise impressive performance.

Pulisic once found peak scoring form with AC Milan, but the USMNT star has now gone five consecutive matches without a goal, drawing serious criticism from fans. However, he hasn’t fully reached his best physical condition yet, and the lack of attacking stars may have forced him to exert extra physical effort. Therefore, the 27-year-old’s absence might be crucial in restoring him to full fitness ahead of the final phase of the season.

In the absence of Christian Pulisic, coach Massimiliano Allegri will rely on Christopher Nkunku and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to make a significant impact. Additionally, Adrien Rabiot will play a crucial role in the attack, as his goal-scoring ability will be more important than ever to secure a win. Furthermore, Bologna have won only one of their last six Serie A matches, suggesting that AC Milan might not encounter too many difficulties in claiming victory.

Bologna lineup vs. AC Milan

Ahead of the match against AC Milan, Bologna remain without key goalkeeper Łukasz Skorupski,and without Jhon Lucumí due to physical issues. However, coach Vincenzo Italiano has a fairly competitive squad, with Riccardo Orsolini and Jonathan Rowe leading the attack. In addition, Santiago Castro could also play a key role in pushing for a victory against the Rossoneri.

Considering this, Bologna will play as follows: Federico Ravaglia; Nadir Zortea, Nicolò Casale, Torbjörn Heggem, Juan Miranda; Remo Freuler, Lewis Ferguson; Riccardo Orsolini, Jens Odgaard, Jonathan Rowe; Santiago Castro.

AC Milan lineup vs. Bologna

Although Christian Pulisic is AC Milan’s most notable absence, coach Massimiliano Allegri will also be without Alexis Saelemaekers and Santiago Giménez. As a result, they are expected to make significant changes to the starting lineup. Even so, the Rossoneri remain clear favorites to secure the win, as stars such as Christopher Nkunku and Adrien Rabiot are fully fit and ready to play a crucial role in the match.

With this in mind, AC Milan will start as follows: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, Koni De Winter; Zachary Athekame, Samuele Ricci, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Davide Bartesaghi; Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku.

Arsenal face Chelsea in the second leg of the 2025/26 Carabao Cup semifinals. Supporters in the United States can watch every moment live on television or through streaming platforms, with multiple viewing options available.

Match Overview

A spot in the final is on the line as London rivals meet in a tense second leg of this Carabao Cup with everything to play for. Arsenal arrive holding a narrow 3–2 first-leg advantage and the confidence that comes with leading the Premier League.

On the other hand, Chelsea return home encouraged by recent success and knowing a big performance is required to turn the tie around. With pride, momentum, and a place in the final at stake, this is a showdown fans won’t want to miss.

Albacete will face Barcelona in the 2025/26 Copa del Rey quarterfinals. Viewers in the United States can tune in for full coverage, with kickoff times and broadcast information available here for both TV and streaming options.

Match Overview

Barcelona’s Copa del Rey journey reaches a crucial stage with a semifinal spot at stake, and the bracket has suddenly opened following Real Madrid’s shocking exit. That upset put Albacete in the spotlight after their historic Round of 16 win, setting up a high-profile meeting with the tournament favorites.

Barcelona arrive with momentum and heavy expectations, while Albacete carry confidence and the belief they can deliver another stunning result. With contrasting storylines colliding, this quarterfinal is one you won’t want to miss.

A teammate of Lionel Messi in Argentina will likely miss the Finalissima against Spain due to injury.

Argentina are entering a crucial period in their road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Next month, they will compete for a title when they face Spain in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the champions of Europe and South America. In this context, a key teammate of Lionel Messi could be sidelined due to injury.

“Giovani Lo Celso suffers a myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh,” Real Betis reported on Tuesday in a statement published on their official website. “The Argentine player has suffered a moderate proximal myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh as a result of an accidental collision during the match against PAOK.”

The injury occurred nearly two weeks ago during a UEFA Europa League match on January 22 in Greece. Initially, the expectation was that the 29-year-old midfielder would miss just a couple of games before returning to action, but medical tests revealed a much more complex situation.

“His return to the squad will depend on how the injury progresses,” Betis limited themselves to stating. However, reports suggest the timeline could be significantly longer. “Gio Lo Celso suffered a muscular injury that will take him at least a month to recover from,” Argentine insider Gaston Edul said on his X account.

Lo Celso has suffered a myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh.

Get well soon, @LoCelsoGiovani! 💚

➡ https://t.co/puMi6QBXFV pic.twitter.com/khXsZTCmea

— Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) February 3, 2026

“At Betis, they anticipated a possible absence of some duration for Lo Celso,” Diario AS reported, predicting an even more pessimistic timeline than the one shared by Edul: “His absence could last just over two months.”

Lo Celso almost ruled out for the Finalissima

The news of Giovani Lo Celso’s injury is far from ideal for Lionel Scaloni, as it inevitably casts doubt over the midfielder’s participation in Argentina’s next challenge: the Finalissima against Spain, scheduled for March 27 in Doha, Qatar.

If the most optimistic forecasts hold true, Lo Celso could recover by early or mid-March, giving him roughly two weeks to regain his best form and rejoin the Argentine squad. In other words, it would be a tight timeline.

If reality aligns more with the pessimistic forecasts and the midfielder needs at least two months to return, his presence in the Finalissima will be ruled out, and he would not play again until April.

Another injury complicates Lo Celso’s career

In recent years, injuries have been a nightmare for Giovani Lo Celso. In fact, this was one of the main reasons Tottenham let him go before his return to Real Betis. In Spain, he has struggled to maintain consistent performance for the same reasons.

The start of this injury streak came in the weeks leading up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. At that time, Lo Celso was a key player for Argentina and Messi’s main creative partner on the field. But a serious muscle injury while playing for Villarreal kept him out of that tournament, depriving him of the chance to become a world champion. Now, a similar situation again puts his future with Argentina in doubt.

Bologna will face AC Milan on Matchday 23 of the 2025/26 Serie A season. Here’s everything you need to know about the date, location, kickoff time, and viewing options, including TV coverage and live streaming in the USA.

Match Overview

Matchday 23 closes with a high-stakes clash at the top of the Serie A standings, as Inter Milan come in fresh off a 2-0 win over Cremonese and leading the table with 55 points, applying pressure on AC Milan.

The Rossoneri trail by eight on 47 points and need a victory to cut the gap to five, while Bologna, mired in a disappointing midtable season and outside the European places, look to spark a late push toward continental contention.

Despite his status as the undisputed leader of Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly unhappy with the club due to mismanagement in roster reinforcement. Moreover, the veteran striker has reportedly made a decision that clearly highlights his future intentions.

Cristiano Ronaldo has managed to remain one of the top players in the Saudi Pro League, maintaining an impressive scoring pace. However, the veteran’s future at Al Nassr remains highly uncertain, as the club’s lack of reinforcements has reportedly caused frustration for the Portuguese star, leading to his absence from the previous match. Instead of easing tensions, the 40-year-old star has made a surprising decision that makes his intentions clear.

According to journalist Abdul Aziz Al-Tamimi via X (formerly Twitter), Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from today’s training session at Al Nassr as coach Jorge Jesus scheduled the workout for players who did not feature in the match against Al Riyadh SC. With this, the Portuguese star continues to strain relations with the club, making his frustration over the lack of investment to strengthen the squad clear.

Although Al Nassr have managed to remain among the most competitive teams in the Saudi Pro League, they have had serious problems within the roster this season. Despite this, Wesley Gassova and Haroune Camara have left the team, clearly weakening the offense. In response to this, Hayder Abdulkareem and Abdullah Al-Hamdan arrived, but it does not seem to have been enough for Cristiano Ronaldo, who believes that the team has not improved enough.

Unlike Ronaldo’s team, Al Hilal have managed to create a fully competitive roster, signing three top-level players in this transfer market: Mohamed Meïté, Saïmon Nadélia Bouabré, and even Karim Benzema. In addition, they have retained Theo Hernandez and Sergej Milinković-Savić, among others, making them the most complete team in the league and leaving Al Nassr behind, who have failed to win the Saudi Pro League since the Portuguese player’s arrival.

Aware of his influence, Cristiano Ronaldo is pressuring Al Nassr’s management and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), showing his clear frustration. Although he has stayed in top form since joining the Saudi Pro League, he considers any season without a league title a failure due to his competitive drive. Recognizing that the current roster might fail again, the Portuguese star is pushing for immediate changes within PIF.

Ex-Premier League star delivers blunt criticism of Ronaldo’s attitude

Cristiano Ronaldo’s stance toward the PIF and Al Nassr has been praised by several fans, who view him as the only player capable of influencing a change in the direction the club is taking, after struggling to reinforce the squad with top-level players. However, it has not all been praise, as a former Premier League star has decided to issue a strong criticism of the Portuguese player’s attitude.

“Maybe Ronaldo could give some of his earnings to the club to then help them get more players. I’ve never heard of something so ridiculous in all my life, self-indulgent nonsense… It is absolutely bizarre when you consider the earning capacity of Cristiano and Benzema. For either of them to be disillusioned, upset about the way their clubs are run, to put it mildly, is almost unthinkable,” Danny Murphy said, via talkSPORT.

Looking forward to be fit for the 2026 World Cup, Colombia star James Rodríguez has been reportedly offered to two clubs in Argentina.

James Rodríguez’s situation has raised concern within the Colombia national team, as the midfielder has struggled to find a club during the winter transfer window with less than 6 months for the beginning of the 2026 World Cup. Now, hope for the Cafeteros has been reignited, with reports claiming Rodríguez has been offered to two teams in Argentina.

After his deal with Liga MX side Club León expired at the end of last season, James became a free agent, searching for a new club to prepare for the World Cup. However, contrary to expectations, the Colombian legend was unable to secure a move, largely due to his financial demands. Still, a new opportunity has now emerged.

As reported by Argentine outlet 0221 and cited by Infobae, James Rodríguez has been offered to Estudiantes de La Plata, a club chaired by Argentine icon Juan Sebastián Verón. Additionally, transfer expert César Luis Merlo revealed that Rodríguez has also been offered to Platense, who are seriously evaluating the possibility of signing him.

Even so, bringing in Rodríguez on a free transfer would still require a significant financial commitment for Argentine clubs, whose wage structures are more limited than those of other South American leagues, particularly Brazil’s. Both Estudiantes and Platense, however, have the advantage of competing in the Copa Libertadores, offering Rodríguez the opportunity to maintain high-level competitive minutes as he continues his preparation.

There are also questions surrounding Rodríguez’s match fitness, as his last appearance came on November 8 with Club León against Puebla, and he has been training individually since leaving Mexico. Still, the Argentine league is familiar territory for the midfielder, who previously played for Banfield in 2008 and helped the club win its first league title in 2009.

Colombia preparing for the World Cup

With James Rodríguez serving not only as captain but also as Colombia’s leading scorer in the current CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the national team is eager to see him back on the field regularly. In the meantime, as his club future remains unresolved, Colombia’s path toward the tournament in North America is beginning to take shape.

In roughly six weeks, the March international window will begin, with Colombia heading to the United States for a pair of high-profile friendlies. The Cafeteros will first face Croatia on March 26 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, before traveling to Landover, Maryland, to take on France on March 29 at Northwest Stadium, two key matches where Rodríguez is expected to play a central role.

With tensions growing between the league management and Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese star's future at Al Nassr with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon has been put in doubt, with a release clause emerging.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the center of growing tension at Al Nassr in recent days, largely due to his absence from the club’s most recent match against Al Riyadh. Amid reported discomfort with the league’s direction, the Portuguese star’s future at the club ahead of the 2026 World Cup has been thrown into doubt, with a release clause now emerging as a key factor.

While Ronaldo has remained silent publicly, multiple reports have suggested that his decision to miss the Al Nassr match stemmed from dissatisfaction with the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s role in the league. Central to that frustration is what has been perceived as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, highlighted by the completion of Karim Benzema’s move to the rival club.

According to Record journalist Rafael Godinho, Ronaldo is now weighing the possibility of leaving Saudi Arabia altogether. Unhappy with the current situation, June has been identified as the month in which the forward could make a definitive decision, with Major League Soccer and a potential return to Europe cited as possible destinations.

More recently, Record CEO Pedro Sousa reported that Ronaldo’s contract—signed in June 2025 on a two-year deal—includes a clause that would allow him to leave Al Nassr in June 2026. The release clause is reportedly set at €50 million for any club interested in securing his services.

If the situation continues to escalate, Ronaldo’s stance could trigger a significant turning point in his career. With the 2026 World Cup set to kick off on June 11 with a match between Mexico and South Africa, there is a scenario in which the Portuguese forward could resolve his club future even before the tournament begins.

It is worth noting that Record is owned by Cofina Media, a media group in which Ronaldo is a major investor. Still, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner set to turn 41 in the coming months, questions remain over whether any club would be willing to activate such a release clause, or whether Ronaldo himself would ultimately choose to part ways with Al Nassr.

What’s next for Cristiano Ronaldo?

As the face of the Saudi Pro League since his arrival in December 2022, reports indicate that Ronaldo no longer feels fully backed by the PIF. With the winter transfer window now closed, Al Nassr added only two reinforcements, neither of them international stars, while rivals Al Hilal significantly strengthened their squad with the arrival of Benzema.

For now, the next step remains unclear. Al Nassr are set to host Al Ittihad in their next league match on Friday, February 6, with global attention focused on Ronaldo’s potential involvement. Given his role as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid, how this episode ultimately shapes his relationship with the country remains an open question.

With tensions growing in the Saudi Pro League over his move to Al Hilal, Karim Benzema broke the silence with a farewell message to Al Ittihad.

Karim Benzema has generated headlines in recent days as uncertainty surrounding his contract placed his future at Al Ittihad in doubt. With tensions rising across the Saudi Pro League, the French star has now broken his silence, issuing a farewell message to his former club after completing his move to Al Hilal.

The dispute between Benzema and Al Ittihad escalated this week when the striker requested to be left out of the club’s most recent match. According to reports, Benzema felt disrespected by a contract renewal proposal that would have extended his deal beyond the 2025-26 season with no base salary, leaving his earnings tied solely to image rights.

The situation quickly sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League, with Benzema determined to leave Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window despite only days remaining before its closure. Al Hilal then emerged as a destination, stepping in as the club finalized the sale of Marcos Leonardo to Atlético Madrid, a move that reportedly drew frustration from another league star.

According to multiple reports, Cristiano Ronaldo chose to sit out Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh amid growing dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund’s management. One of his concerns centered on what he perceived as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, particularly in contrast to Al Nassr’s lack of international signings, with the push to sign Benzema cited as a key flashpoint.

Despite those objections, Ronaldo’s stance did not prevent the deal from going through. On deadline day, Benzema completed his transfer to Al Hilal, with Al Ittihad announcing the termination of his contract. The Ballon d’Or winner will now remain in Saudi Arabia through June 2027 after signing a reported 18-month deal with his new club.

Benzema’s message to Al Ittihad fans

With his contract at Real Madrid expiring, Benzema chose to join Al Ittihad in July 2023 as part of the Saudi Pro League’s ambitious project. Alongside stars such as N’Golo Kanté, Fabinho and Moussa Diaby, the striker helped the club lift both the Saudi Cup and the league title during the 2024-25 season, cementing his place in Al Ittihad history.

After two and a half years at the club, Benzema took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a farewell message addressed to Al Ittihad and their supporters: “Al Ittihad, this chapter comes to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain. Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the welcome, the love, and the energy you gave me every day.

“This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and of everything we shared. I wish you all the best for what’s next. Respect. KB9,” Benzema concluded his message.

Benzema, who wore the captain’s armband in his final appearances, leaves Al Ittihad with 54 goals and 17 assists in 83 matches, along with two major trophies. Still, his departure was met with backlash from sections of the fan base, with videos circulating on social media showing supporters burning his jerseys, a stark reflection of how abruptly his tenure came to an end.

Rebuilding the roster for the 2026 MLS season, Inter Miami have announced the departure of one of Lionel Messi's important teammates.

Inter Miami remain in the midst of a roster rebuild during the winter transfer window, with less than one month remaining before the start of the 2026 Major League Soccer season. As the club continues to fine-tune its squad, the Herons have now officially confirmed the departure of an important teammate of Lionel Messi ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The club announced Monday that Inter Miami and goalkeeper Óscar Ustari have mutually agreed to terminate his contract. The 39-year-old, who spent a season and a half with the organization based in Fort Lauderdale, will now move on after his time with the Herons comes to an end.

After his contract with Audax Italiano expired, Inter Miami signed Ustari as a free agent in September 2024. He went on to be part of the squad that captured the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, setting a league record for the most points in a single regular MLS season.

During the 2025 season, Ustari stepped into the starting role after Drake Callender lost his spot due to injury, also serving as the team’s goalkeeper at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. By the end of the year, however, he had relinquished the starting job, finishing the season with 40 appearances, 61 goals conceded, and 9 clean sheets across all competitions.

Ustari previously shared the field with Messi in Argentina’s youth national teams, including the U-20 World Cup-winning squad in 2005 and the Olympic gold medal team in 2008. One of the veterans of the locker room, the Argentine departs Inter Miami with a Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup added to his trophy collection.

Who’ll cover the posts at Inter Miami now?

In the Eligible Player Lists for Offseason Roster Mechanisms published by MLS in December, Inter Miami placed Marcelo Weigandt, Rocco Ríos-Novo, and Óscar Ustari in Stage 1 of the Re-Entry Process. With William Yarbrough no longer on the roster and Ríos-Novo returning to Lanús, Ustari had been the club’s lone goalkeeper until Inter Miami secured a replacement.

That replacement is expected to be Dayne St. Clair. The Canadian international joined on a free transfer after his contract with Minnesota United expired following the 2025 MLS season, one in which he was named Goalkeeper of the Year and earned a spot on the league’s Best XI.

In addition, Inter Miami have bolstered their depth by re-signing Rocco Ríos-Novo, who impressed during the club’s MLS Cup run late last season. Most recently, the Herons also announced the signing of former New York City FC goalkeeper Luis Barraza on a deal through June 2027 with an option for 2028, giving the club three goalkeeping options and ultimately leaving Ustari without a role going forward.

With his latest goal, Lamine Yamal tied the goalscoring record of an Argentina legend at FC Barcelona, and it's not Lionel Messi.

Lamine Yamal has been building his own legacy at FC Barcelona despite his young age, establishing himself as one of the club’s most important players at just 18 years old. Continuing to add milestones at his boyhood club, Yamal has now tied the Barcelona goalscoring record of an Argentina legend, and it isn’t Lionel Messi.

While often compared to Messi due to his playing style, Yamal has so far been more of a creator than a pure finisher, contributing more assists than goals and emerging as one of Barcelona’s primary playmakers. That said, last Saturday against Elche, he opened the scoring in a 3-1 La Liga victory when, after a perfectly timed through ball from Dani Olmo, the winger rounded goalkeeper Iñaki Peña and finished into an empty net with his right foot.

With that goal against Elche, Yamal reached 38 goals in a Barcelona shirt, tying Diego Maradona’s total during his time at the club. The Spanish prodigy reached that mark in his fourth season with the senior team, while the Argentine icon accomplished it across two campaigns.

Maradona joined Barcelona from Argentinos Juniors in 1982 at age 21 and, between 1982 and 1984, recorded 38 goals and 23 assists in 58 appearances before moving on to Napoli. Those numbers contrast sharply with Yamal’s output, as the teenager has already produced 38 goals and 40 assists across 134 matches for the Blaugrana.

Still, Yamal’s achievement stands out given his age and trajectory. Since making his debut during the 2022-23 season, he has steadily evolved, reaching this milestone at just 18 years old, five years younger than Maradona was when he hit the same mark. While he remains far from the top of Barcelona’s all-time scoring list, time is firmly on his side as he continues to climb the club’s historical rankings.

What about Lionel Messi’s record?

With Lionel Messi’s departure still lingering in the minds of Barcelona supporters, Yamal has emerged as a new symbol of hope and a potential long-term successor. However, Messi’s club-record 672 goals in 778 appearances remain a distant target, with Yamal currently nowhere near ten percent of that historic total.

Even so, Yamal’s pace offers encouragement when projecting future growth. Now 18 years old, he plays a central role under Hansi Flick this season, appearing in 28 matches while recording 13 goals and 13 assists, elite production for a player of his age.

By comparison, when Messi turned 18 in June 2005, he was still in his second professional season and largely used in rotation. During the 2005-06 campaign, injuries limited him to 25 appearances, in which he scored eight goals and added five assists. With roughly half the current season remaining, Yamal has already surpassed those numbers, sending a clear message about his extraordinary trajectory heading into the years ahead.

Following his departure from Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso has attracted the attention of Liverpool, who reportedly view him as an ideal candidate. However, the Spaniard has also joined a short list of managers being considered to take charge of a major Premier League club.

Xabi Alonso transitioned from being one of the world’s most promising coaches to facing dismissal from Real Madrid. In just a few months on the job, the Spaniard struggled to find the ideal balance in the team’s midfield, which led to his early departure. Despite concerns about how this might impact his future, Liverpool remain interested in having him lead their sporting project. Alongside the Reds, he stands as one of the top candidates for a top Premier League team.

While Pep Guardiola continues to shine as one of the best managers in world, some players believe he could leave the club at the end of the season. As a result, Xabi Alonso has emerged as one of the leading candidates to take over at Manchester City, due to his successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen, reports Matt Law of The Telegraph. However, the Spaniard is not the only option, as two other managers have also joined the shortlist.

Despite Xabi Alonso is the most recent name to join Manchester City’s shortlist, the club is still considering other top-tier candidates. As a result, Enzo Maresca has also emerged as a clear favorite to take charge of the Citizens, reports Matt Law. Despite being recently dismissed by Chelsea, the Italian managed to lead the team to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 title, implementing a well-defined playing style. In addition, his Premier League experience could give him an edge.

Along with Alonso and Maresca, Cesc Fabregas joins Manchester City’s shortlist to replace Pep Guardiola. While he is the least experienced coach on the list, he is currently shining at Como in Serie A, propelling them to the UEFA Conference League. With a current deal until 2028, the Spaniard’s departure wouldn’t be as easy as the other names on the list. Moreover, he has yet to win his first title, leaving doubts about his capacity to lead such a project.

Xabi Alonso may face choice between Liverpool and Manchester City

Despite the alleged issues he had in the Real Madrid dressing room, Xabi Alonso remains one of the most highly rated coaches in the world. His impressive impact at Bayer Leverkusen made his ability to lead a sporting project clear. As a result, Liverpool and Manchester City have emerged as the leading candidates to bring him into their respective projects. Because of this, the Spaniard could be forced to make a difficult decision in the short term.

Although both Liverpool and Manchester City currently have managers in place, both clubs are targeting a change for the 2026–27 season. While the Reds could part ways with Arne Slot due to poor results, the Citizens may see Pep Guardiola depart for personal reasons. In this context, Xabi Alonso has attracted the attention of both clubs thanks to his proactive style of play and commitment to developing young players.

As a Reds legend, Xabi Alonso could have a preference for a move to Anfield, where he would immediately command the respect of the dressing room. However, Arne Slot’s departure is not yet fully defined, and if Liverpool decide to retain him, the Spaniard could accept Manchester City’s offer, where he would carry on Pep Guardiola’s legacy, pursue an iconic spell in the Premier League, and move away from Liverpool for several years.

Dayot Upamecano has emerged as a standout for Bayern Munich, making his contract renewal a top priority. After several months of negotiations, the Frenchman's future is now clear, ending any uncertainty for the German side.

Dayot Upamecano once faced significant criticism, but Vincent Kompany’s arrival transformed him into one of Bayern Munich‘s standout players. He has not only solidified his role as a defensive pillar but also contributes significantly to the team’s playmaking. Consequently, renewing the Frenchman’s contract became an absolute priority. After several months, Dayot has finally made a decision about his future, putting an end to the German side’s uncertainty.

According to reports by Fabrizio Romano on X, formerly Twitter, Dayot Upamecano has finally accepted the contract renewal offer proposed by Bayern Munich. With this deal, the Frenchman becomes one of the club’s highest-paid players and extends his contract until 2030. By agreeing to the renewal, the 27-year-old star establishes himself as the undisputed leader of the team’s defense and a key, unquestionable player for Vincent Kompany.

To ensure his continuity, Bayern Munich decided to accept the salary and contract demands of Moussa Sissoko, Dayot Upamecano’s agent. With this, the German side decided to offer a salary of €16 million (around $18.8 million), along with potential bonuses of €2 million (approximately $2.3 million). Moreover, they accepted a release clause valued at €65 million that would become active in the second year, when he’ll be 29 years old, reports TZ.

Upamecano’s agent delayed his renewal, Bayern executive Hoeneß reveals

Although Dayot Upamecano has reportedly agreed to a contract renewal with Bayern Munich, the negotiations with his entourage were fraught with controversy. This made the renewal process seem quite complex, despite being a top priority for the club. Even Bayern Munich executive Uli Hoeneß openly revealed the true intentions of Upamecano’s agent, Moussa Sissoko, adding another layer of complexity to the discussions.

“I would be absolutely delighted if Dayot Upamecano decided to stay at FC Bayern. I know that he and his family feel very comfortable in Munich. However, I fear that his agents will do everything they can to steer him away from Munich… I’m appalled by this behavior,” Uli Hoeneß previously revealed, via Kicker.

Dayot Upamecano has finally accepted a contract renewal, but issues with the signing bonus were huge concern. The German club offered him a €20 million bonus to extend his stay but prefers to pay it in installments. Nonetheless, Upamecano’s representatives were pushing for a single payment, which the club finds unacceptable, according to BILD. Despite the delay, both sides have managed to narrow their differences, resulting in an extension of the Frenchman.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the center of controversy, as the Portuguese star is reportedly blocking a domino effect in the Saudi Pro League involving Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made headlines in Saudi Arabia in recent days after opting out of Al Nassr’s most recent match, a decision that reports have framed as a protest aimed at league authorities. Amid that backdrop, the Portuguese star was reportedly blocking a domino effect in the Saudi Pro League involving Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté.

With several high-profile players, including Fabinho, Kanté and Benzema, nearing the end of their contracts, Al Ittihad had been preparing for potential departures during the winter transfer window in an effort to offset previous investments. Among them, the French duo appeared most inclined to seek a move midway through the season, albeit under different circumstances.

Fenerbahce initially pushed to sign Kanté, while Benzema, facing uncertainty over his contract and dissatisfied with an offer on the table, was left out of Al Ittihad’s most recent match. With their star striker potentially on the way out, Al Ittihad pursued Fenerbahce forward Youssef En-Nesyri, structuring a swap deal that would send Kanté back to Europe.

At the same time, Al Hilal emerged as the leading contender to sign Benzema. Fabrizio Romano reported that the striker had already agreed to personal terms, while Kanté had reportedly completed medical tests to finalize his move. Both deals, however, remained pending official approval as the Saudi transfer window approached its close.

Ronaldo blocks Benzema and Kanté deals to the detriment of Al Hilal

According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Ronaldo opposed Benzema’s potential transfer to Al Hilal, a stance that reportedly factored into his decision to sit out Al Nassr’s last match. That opposition threatened to derail the chain reaction that would have seen Kanté depart as part of the En-Nesyri swap.

Ronaldo’s frustration is said to stem from dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund’s management of Al Nassr, particularly regarding perceived underinvestment. The Portuguese star, echoing sentiments previously voiced by coach Jorge Jesus, has also taken note of what he views as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, a perception reinforced by the push to bring Benzema to the club.

Further fueling the situation, Record CEO Pedro Sousa reported that the PIF wanted Ronaldo himself to move to Al Hilal ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in June. According to Sousa, Ronaldo rejected the idea of playing for another Saudi club, a decision that further strained relations and added weight to his current stance.

Now with the Saudi Pro League transfer window closed, Ronaldo’s reported plan ultimately fell short. Benzema was officially announced as an Al Hilal player, while RMC Sport reported that Kanté joined Fenerbahce in a €5 million deal, with En-Nesyri’s move expected to be completed in the coming hours. With Al Nassr set to face Al Ittihad next Friday, doubts over Ronaldo’s availability have begun to surface, a development that could signal broader repercussions across Saudi soccer.

Despite having started against Elche CF, Raphinha has been diagnosed with an injury and will miss the Copa del Rey match. In response, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick delivered a strong opinion regarding the Brazilian’s absence.

Raphinha has established himself as Barcelona’s best player, playing a key role in the team’s collective play. As one of the club’s top scorers, the Brazilian has become the leader of the attack. In the previous match against Elche CF, he suffered an injury that will rule him out of the upcoming Copa del Rey game. With his absence confirmed, Hansi Flick decided to break his silence, delivering strong remarks following Raphinha’s second injury of the season.

According to Barcelona‘s post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Raphinha has been diagnosed with an overload in the adductor muscle of his right leg. Although this issue won’t keep him out for an extended period, the Brazilian will be sidelined for about a week, missing the Copa del Rey match against Albacete. In response, Hansi Flick has delivered strong self-criticism, setting a new task for himself and the team for the remainder of the season.

“To be honest, I’m not happy about this. He’s a very important player for us. We’ll see what we need to change and what he needs to change as well. For me, it’s important because I’ve already said that this is when the crucial phase of the season begins and we need all the players. We want everyone to be fit, and when he can’t play, it’s not good,” Hansi Flick said as reported by Cadena SER.

Although Raphinha is reaching his best version under Hansi Flick, he has already suffered two injuries this season, raising serious doubts on his physical condition management. While the Brazilian is a cornerstone for Barcelona, he isn’t the attacking player with the most minutes this campaign. Still, his return from the thigh injury may have come too soon and could require more rest or more careful management of his playing time until he fully regains peak fitness.

Marcus Rashford could hold a key role amid Raphinha’s absence

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Raphinha has solidified his status as one of the world’s top players, making his absence in Barcelona’s match against Albacete a significant setback. Nonetheless, coach Hansi Flick has assembled a highly competitive roster, ensuring that overcoming this challenge is achievable. In this context, Marcus Rashford could be pivotal to the attack, as he enters the match in top form after scoring in each of the last two games.

Acknowledging Rashford’s excellent condition, Hansi Flick praised his impressive adaptation into the team: “He has much more potential to show. We always look at goals and assists, but he can give us much more. That’s what I want to see. I’m very happy with his contribution—he’s giving us what we ask of him—but he has more potential. I want everyone to reach their maximum level.”

Replacing Raphinha is no easy task, but Rashford has proven himself in top form and made an undeniable impact at Barcelona. In 32 matches, the Englishman has scored 10 goals and provided 12 assists, surprising fans with his influence. With this impressive performance level, Marcus could be the clear favorite to start on the left wing, replacing the Brazilian.

Set to face Bolgona to keep up the pace in the Serie A title race, AC Milan star Christian Pulisic has reportedly received an upsetting injury update.

Christian Pulisic has endured a noticeable dip in form in 2026, with the USMNT star yet to record a goal contribution for AC Milan this calendar year, a sharp contrast to his early-season impact. As the Rossoneri prepare for a key Serie A matchup against Bologna, Pulisic has now been dealt a concerning injury update.

Following a 1-1 draw with AS Roma last Sunday, Milan failed to close the gap on city rivals Inter Milan, who have gone on an impressive unbeaten run of 10 wins and one draw since losing the Derby della Madonnina. Inter sit on 55 points with an eight-point lead, leaving Milan in urgent need of three points against Bologna, though head coach Massimiliano Allegri may be without a full squad.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pulisic is managing ongoing muscular discomfort that has lingered in recent weeks. Allegri granted the squad a rest day on Friday, but the American still reported to Milanello for treatment, where the issue reportedly persisted.

Pulisic has already battled a hamstring injury suffered during the October international break with the USMNT, an issue that sidelined him for nearly seven weeks. Since returning, Milan have played 14 matches, with Pulisic missing two and completing the full 90 minutes only twice: against Genoa and Fiorentina.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Matchday 23 clash with Bologna, Milan are reportedly hopeful Pulisic can at least make the bench and be used if needed, similar to his appearance against Roma, when he was introduced in the 69th minute for Christopher Nkunku. His availability, however, will be assessed over the next 24 hours, raising fresh concerns about his fitness.

Milan’s injury crisis in attack

A less-than-fully-fit Pulisic would be a significant setback for Milan’s Scudetto push, with little margin for error as Inter continue to build separation at the top of the table. Compounding the issue, Milan are dealing with multiple attacking concerns beyond the USMNT star.

Striker Niclas Füllkrug has been playing through a fracture in his right toe and, while available, is expected to be limited to a substitute role. Meanwhile, Rafael Leão continues to manage pubalgia, with his workload carefully monitored to avoid setbacks, leaving Nkunku as the only fully fit attacking option ahead of the trip to Bologna.

Due to Christian Pulisic’s poor form and the offense’s struggles overall, AC Milan were reportedly targeting Jean-Philippe Mateta to strengthen their attack. However, the Rossoneri have already made a surprising decision regarding the Frenchman’s signing for a compelling reason.

Christian Pulisic began the 2025–26 season in top form, but the USMNT star has seen a notable drop in his performance. In response, the Rossoneri decided to target Jean-Philippe Mateta as a potential attacking reinforcement. After several weeks of progress in the deal, AC Milan were reportedly close to finalizing his arrival, but one requirement from the Italian side completely changed the outlook, leading them to make a surprising decision.

In order to carefully review Mateta’s physical condition, AC Milan decided to request additional medical checks, Sky Sports reports. While the Frenchman hasn’t suffered any recent injuries, the Italian side want to avoid signing a player who isn’t in full physical shape, as it already happened with Victor Boniface in 2025, when the deal collapsed due to serious knee issues. Following these examinations, the Rossoneri are said to have already made a surprising decision.

According to reports by Sacha Tavolieri, AC Milan have decided not to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace. Not only did they run into issues regarding his agents’ commissions, but the Frenchman is also dealing with physical problems. In fact, the 28-year-old star would need knee surgery to fully recover, which would rule him out for three to four months, effectively discarding any potential departure from the English club.

Having ruled out Mateta’s arrival, the Rossoneri may decide not to make any signing in the striker role in the next days, betting on Christopher Nkunku, Niclas Füllkrug, and the potential comeback of Santiago Gimenez. Nonetheless, Massimiliano Allegri could experience a revolution in the offense in the Summer 2026, chasing a more experienced profile like Dusan Vlahovic as a free agent, to reinforce the scoring prowess ahead of the UEFA Champions League.

Ruling out Mateta, Gimenez earns his big chance at AC Milan

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s arrival would have definitively cut short Santiago Giménez’s future at AC Milan. At 28 years old and in top form in the Premier League, the Frenchman would have been the undisputed starter, pushing the Mexican striker aside. However, his knee issues prevented the move to the Italian side. While this is a setback for the Rossoneri, it represents a huge opportunity for the 25-year-old star.

Although Santiago Giménez still being sidelined through injury, he shared a positive update on his recovery. With that in mind, the Mexican forward has until the end of the season to showcase his talent and secure his place at AC Milan. However, the task won’t be easy for the 25-year-old striker, as the Rossoneri are targeting his sale in the summer of 2026, reports la Gazzeta dello Sport. Because of this, he must show his best version to ensure his continuity at the club.

With Joan Garcia's arrival, Marc-André ter Stegen left Barcelona seeking a more prominent role. Despite starting strong at Girona, a severe injury sparked rumors of a return to the Blaugranas. However, Hansi Flick's team reportedly set firm boundaries on that possibility.

Following months of uncertainty, Marc-André ter Stegen has solidified his professional future by joining Girona FC in pursuit of regular playing time. Although he has delivered solid performances, he recently suffered a severe injury that could sideline him for several months. Consequently, speculation has arisen about a potential return to Barcelona, but reports suggest that Hansi Flick‘s team has set firm boundaries on that possibility.

According to Girona FC on X, formerly Twitter, Marc-André ter Stegen suffered a left hamstring injury during the match against Real Oviedo. In addition, Gerard Romero reports that the German may have tendon damage, which could require surgery and keep him sidelined for around three months. Given this situation, the goalkeeper could return to Barcelona, as Girona do not rule out terminating the loan since he would miss a large part of the season.

Even though Girona considered terminating the German’s loan due to his expected long absence, Barcelona have already made a firm decision. According to Fernando Polo of Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana will not accept Marc-André ter Stegen’s return, as there is no contractual option for this. However, the 33-year-old star could complete a large part of his recovery at the club’s facilities.

Marc-André’s potential return may not be positive for his professional career as he would be entirely out of contention for the 2026 World Cup. With Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczęsny securing the goalkeeper positions, he would not be a key player. Additionally, it won’t be easy for ter Stegen to get loaned out again, making him a third option in Barcelona.

Having ter Stegen expected to be out for several months, Girona have decided to chase another goalkeeper to reinforce the team, reports Cadena SER. With this latest problem, Marc-André suffers his fourth injury in three seasons, holding back his progress as a stellar figure and complicating his future.

Marc-André ter Stegen’s future looks uncertain amid growing concerns

Marc-André ter Stegen has gone from being one of the best goalkeepers in the world to facing an uncertain future. In recent seasons, the German has suffered several injuries that have stalled his progress, leaving him relegated to Barcelona’s third-choice goalkeeper. While he still has a chance to shine for a few months in Girona, his professional future remains highly uncertain due to a very particular detail.

Having proven to be a difference-making goalkeeper, ter Stegen continues to attract interest from several clubs across Europe. However, his future is reportedly stalled by his salary demands. As one of Barcelona’s highest-paid players, the German is said to want to keep his lucrative wages at his next club or have the Blaugrana pay out the remainder of his contract to allow him to leave. As a result, his future appears highly uncertain.

After regaining their winning form, Al Nassr are preparing to face Al Riyadh SC, aiming for another victory that would keep them closing in on the top of the league standings. However, head coach Jorge Jesus faces a tough challenge, as he will be without Cristiano Ronaldo for a surprising reason.

Despite beginning 2026 in poor form, Al Nassr seem to have regained their competitive rhythm, stringing together four consecutive victories. Their objective is to reclaim the Saudi Pro League lead, and today they face Al Riyadh SC, aiming for a win that could bring them closer to that goal. However, coach Jorge Jesus faces a challenge, as Cristiano Ronaldo will be unavailable for the match due to an unexpected reason.

Cristiano Ronaldo is in top form, avoiding injuries in the last game and training session. However, the Portuguese player will not be present in today’s game by his own decision, as he is unhappy with the management of Al Nassr by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF). The veteran believes that they are not receiving the same treatment as their rivals, such as Al Hilal, with the alleged arrival of Karim Benzema being the last straw, according to A Bola.

Although Benzema’s potential move to Al Hilal has reportedly unsettled Ronaldo, it does not imply any personal issues with the Frenchman. Instead, the Portuguese’s frustration appears directed at the lack of investment in Al Nassr, which contrasts sharply with the financial freedom rivals enjoy in the transfer market. Viewing this disparity as unfair competition, the 38-year-old icon seeks to exert pressure on the PIF to rectify the situation.

Jorge Jesus must make significant changes to his starting lineup, choosing Abdulrahman Ghareeb as the center forward in place of Ronaldo. Despite these adjustments, Al Nassr still stand as the clear favorites to win against Al Riyadh SC as they can feature Joao Felix, and Sadio Mane, providing a strong attacking presence. Additionally, Iñigo Martinez and Mohamed Simakan will continue to bolster the defense, enhancing the team’s stability.

Al Riyadh SC lineup vs. Al Nassr

Unlike Al Nassr, Al Riyadh SC do not head into the match in top form, having drawn their last three games and still without a win in 2026. However, they arrive with a full roster, meaning head coach José Daniel Carreño will have his key players available. As a result, Mamadou Sylla and Tozé will lead the attack once again, aiming for a victory that can set them back on a winning path.

With this in mind, Al Riyadh will lineup as follows: Milan Borjan; Osama Al-Boardi, Mohammed Al-Khaibari, Yoann Barbet, Abdulelah Al-Khaibri; Sergio González, Ahmed Al-Syahi, Ismaila Soro; Teddy Okou, Mamadou Sylla, Tozé.

Al Nassr lineup vs. Al Riyadh SC

Al Nassr face Al Riyadh with only a few absences in their squad, as Cristiano Ronaldo and Sami Al-Najei are the only players sidelined. Because of this, Jorge Jesus’ team head into the match as clear favorites to claim the win, with plans to field their strongest starting XI featuring João Félix and Sadio Mané. With this, they will be aiming for a fifth straight victory to remain close challengers to Al Hilal at the top of the Saudi Pro League.

Considering this, Al Nassr will play as follows: Bento Krepski; Sultan Al Ghanam, Mohamed Simakan, Iñigo Martinez, Saad Al Nasser; Sadio Mane, Ali Al Hassan, Ângelo, Ayman Yahya; Joao Felix, Abdulrahman Ghareeb.

Al Riyadh face Al Nassr for a Matchday 20 clash in the 2025/26 Saudi Pro League season. Here’s everything you need to know to follow the matchup, including kickoff times and full broadcast information for TV and streaming coverage in the USA.

Match Overview

Momentum is starting to shift in the Saudi Pro League title hunt, and Matchday 19 proved it. Al Nassr closed the gap at the top to three points after securing three points against Al Kholood while leaders Al Hilal were held to a 2–2 draw by Al Qadisiyah.

With Cristiano Ronaldo leading a confident squad, Al Nassr understands that another win would keep the pressure firmly on the teams above them. Their next test comes against an Al Riyadh side fighting for survival, stuck on 12 points and just one step clear of the relegation zone, turning this contest into a high-stakes clash for both ends of the standings.

With Lionel Messi earning $12 million per year, questions rise over Rodrigo De Paul’s new deal at Inter Miami.

Lionel Messi has become the face of Major League Soccer since arriving in 2023, benefiting from a record-setting $12 million salary with Inter Miami. Now sharing the field with a close friend and Argentina national team teammate, comparisons have emerged between the No. 10’s wages and Rodrigo De Paul’s new deal following his departure from Atlético Madrid.

In a surprising move during the 2025 summer transfer window, Inter Miami completed the signing of Rodrigo De Paul, whose contract with Atlético Madrid was set to expire at the end of the season. Despite being a regular starter, the Colchoneros opted to move the Argentine midfielder, initially sending him to MLS on a six-month loan.

With Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba leaving the club, Inter Miami freed up both salary cap space and financial flexibility, and in December 2025 officially exercised the permanent transfer option on De Paul. The fee, €15 million (nearly $18 million), made him the second most expensive signings in MLS history.

Now officially part of Inter Miami, De Paul joins the club’s group of Designated Players alongside Messi and newly signed Germán Berterame from Monterrey. His contract runs through December 2029, meaning the midfielder will remain with the Herons regardless of Messi’s future, as the Argentine captain’s deal expires in December 2028.

Messi and De Paul’s salaries

According to the MLSPA salary guide published in 2025, Messi remains the league’s highest-paid player with a base salary of $12 million per season at Inter Miami. When endorsements and commercial partnerships are included, his total annual earnings rise to $20,446,667.

By contrast, the same salary guide lists De Paul well below Messi, with a base salary of $1.5 million. Including bonuses and additional compensation, his total earnings reach $3.62 million. While De Paul ranks second among Inter Miami players in overall pay, tied with Luis Suárez, he still trails Messi by a wide margin, according to figures compiled by Capology.

The difference is especially striking when compared to De Paul’s earnings in Spain. Per Capology, the midfielder earned a gross annual salary of €6.67 million (approximately $7.77 million) under the four-year contract he signed with Atlético Madrid in 2021, a significant drop from his current deal with the Herons.

Set to miss Al Nassr’s next game, Cristiano Ronaldo’s reasons for his growing discomfort with the Saudi Pro League have reportedly begun to emerge.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself in the spotlight at Al Nassr, not because of his on-field production, but due to reports surrounding a potential absence from the club’s next Saudi Pro League match. As tension and discomfort around the Portuguese star continue to build, the reasons behind his reported absence have begun to surface.

On Sunday, multiple Saudi outlets reported that Ronaldo is set to miss Al Nassr’s Matchday 20 clash against Al Riyadh on Monday, February 2. The news initially raised concerns about a possible injury, as no official explanation had been provided and the decision was attributed to head coach Jorge Jesus.

Shortly after, Fabrizio Romano clarified that Ronaldo’s absence is not related to any physical issue, nor to workload or fitness management. Early speculation suggested the move could be tied to preserving the forward for Friday’s high-profile matchup against Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad, but that explanation was also ruled out.

Ronaldo unhappy with Saudi PIF

According to A Bola, Ronaldo’s absence is instead a form of protest directed at Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The Portuguese outlet reports that the forward is dissatisfied with how the fund has managed Al Nassr over the past three years, particularly when compared to the treatment received by rival clubs under the same ownership umbrella.

Beyond concerns over overall investment, transfer activity has also become a point of frustration. Jorge Jesus recently acknowledged the club’s limited flexibility in the current window, noting that Al Nassr lack both available foreign-player slots and the financial capacity to make a major signing at this stage.

While Al Nassr have reportedly reached an agreement with Real Sociedad for Brazilian winger Wesley — a move that would eventually free up a roster spot — the only addition so far has been Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem. The lack of immediate reinforcements has only added to Ronaldo’s growing discomfort.

Another key factor involves the diminished roles of Ronaldo’s close allies within the club. Sporting director Simão Coutinho and CEO José Semedo reportedly had their powers frozen by the board, a decision that Ronaldo believes has negatively impacted the club’s direction and competitiveness.

Ronaldo has also taken note of what is perceived as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, a concern previously voiced publicly by Jorge Jesus. Recent developments, including Karim Benzema’s potential move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, have reinforced the belief that Al Hilal continue to outpace other PIF-backed clubs in both influence and ambition.

Ronaldo signed a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr in June 2025, even as the Saudi Pro League prepares for a broader reshaping next summer with several high-profile departures expected. His reported stance now represents a significant statement from the league’s most recognizable figure, with the consequences still to unfold.

As part of the new generation of young talents, Brazil and Real Madrid prospect Endrick revealed who his idol is between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have defined an entire generation of soccer players, delivering elite performances week after week while constantly rewriting the record books. As part of the next wave of young talent, Brazil and Real Madrid wonderkid Endrick has now revealed which of the two legends he considers his idol.

A product of Palmeiras’ academy, Endrick was signed by Real Madrid for €60 million at just 17 years old, widely viewed as one of the brightest prospects of his generation. With a contract tying him to Los Blancos through June 2030, the striker is now focused on earning his place in Europe during his current stint with Olympique Lyon.

In an interview with L’Equipe, Endrick made his admiration clear when discussing his role model: “Cristiano Ronaldo is my No. 1 idol. What I admire most is that at 40 years old, he’s still the hardest worker out of everyone else.“

In an era dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, it was the Portuguese superstar who left the deepest mark on Endrick, who also emphasized his identity as a true No. 9 despite debate over his position. “He’s close to retirement, but he’s still capable of playing for many more years. I hope he does,” the Brazilian stated.

Although he has not been included in Carlo Ancelotti’s most recent Brazil call-ups, Endrick remains hopeful of one day sharing the World Cup stage with his idol. “Play against Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup? Ah, that would be wonderful. I hope it happens — and that we win,” he added.

Endrick chasing a place at the World Cup

The 2025-26 season marked Endrick’s second year under contract with Real Madrid, but limited opportunities (just three appearances in the first six months) left him on the fringes of Brazil’s plans with the 2026 World Cup approaching. As a result, the striker sought a temporary move away, joining Lyon on a six-month loan deal after the French club paid $1.17 million to Madrid.

Speaking with the French outlet, Endrick explained how the move could help him fulfill his international ambitions. “I came here to be happy, to play. Going to the World Cup is a dream and, God willing, I will play in it. But here my mission is to play well, and if I do that at my club, I can earn a call-up to the national team,” he stated.

So far, the move has paid off. Endrick has appeared in four matches for Lyon, scoring four goals and adding one assist, while earning two MVP awards in victories. With Ancelotti’s backing for the move, the 18-year-old has put himself firmly back in the conversation for what could be his first World Cup appearance.

Although Karim Benzema remains in top form, his future at Al Ittihad is unclear following a controversial contract renewal offer. In light of this, they are reportedly targeting a surprise striker who is also being pursued by Juventus to replace the French legend.

Following a heavily criticized debut in the Saudi Pro League, Karim Benzema managed to rediscover his best form with Al Ittihad, scoring 21 goals in 29 matches last season. However, his performances have declined once again in the current campaign, and his future at the club is far from clear. Anticipating a potential departure, the club are already targeting a surprise striker—also tracked by Juventus —as a possible successor to the French star in the coming hours.

According to L’Équipe, Al Ittihad want to keep Karim Benzema at the club at least until 2027. However, they submitted an unusual renewal offer with no base salary but granted him 100% of his image rights. As a result, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner was extremely displeased and began pushing for an immediate exit. With this in mind, the Frenchman is now even targeting a surprise destination.

With Benzema’s potential departure looming, Al Ittihad have decided to move quickly in the transfer market and are aiming to secure the signing of Youssef En-Nesyri, reports Fabrizio Romano. The Moroccan striker currently plays for Fenerbahçe, where he has scored eight goals in 26 matches. However, completing the deal will not be straightforward, as Juventus are also interested and are proposing a loan move with an option to buy.

Despite the intense competition to secure his signature, En-Nesyri seems to have a preferred path for his future. According to Fabrizio Romano, Fenerbahçe have shown interest in Al Ittihad’s N’Golo Kanté, and both clubs are now engaged in a double negotiation that seems close to reach an outcome. As a result, the Moroccan would become head coach Sérgio Conceição’s starting striker, while the Frenchman would emerge as one of coach Domenico Tedesco’s main stars.

Youssef En-Nesyri’s situation at Fenerbahçe sparks major doubts

Youssef En-Nesyri established himself as one of Europe’s most in-form strikers during his tenure at Sevilla. With an impressive tally of 73 goals in 196 appearances, the Moroccan striker transitioned to Fenerbahçe, where he immediately impressed by netting 30 goals in 50 matches during his first season. However, the 28-year-old star is currently experiencing a somewhat disappointing campaign, which raises doubts about his potential impact at Al Ittihad.

Unlike last season, the Moroccan player has struggled to shine in the Turkish team, managing just eight goals in 26 games. Additionally, Youssef En-Nesyri is no longer the indisputable starter for coach Domenico Tedesco. Anderson Talisca has claimed the starting striker spot, excelling with 17 goals in 31 games. As a result, En-Nesyri’s move to Al Ittihad raises several doubts since he is currently the third-choice option for the Turkish side.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Al Nassr has been truly transformative for the Saudi Pro League, drawing the attention of several star players. Al Ahli forward Ivan Toney has even spoken about the importance the Portuguese star had in his own decision to join the league.

Cristiano Ronaldo has become the most transformative player in the history of the Saudi Pro League. Not only has he made an impact through his performances at Al Nassr, but his arrival has also opened the door for several star players to join other clubs across the league. With this in mind, Ivan Toney spoke about the importance the Portuguese star had in his decision to join Al Ahli, where he now stands as the central figure of the club’s project.

In a recent interview with The Mirror, Ivan Toney elaborated on his arrival in the Saudi Pro League in 2024, making clear the influence of Cristiano Ronaldo: “I didn’t know too much about the Pro League, but then Ronaldo moved here in 2023 and a few others followed. When the option came around for me to move, I dived deeper into it to see what it was about. And, by that point, it was looking good.”

Far from being a star on the level of Cristiano Ronaldo, Ivan Toney arrived at Al Ahli as a striker in peak form from Brentford in the Premier League. Nevertheless, the Englishman has proven to be truly decisive, scoring 56 goals and providing 14 assists in 72 matches. In addition, he has already lifted the Saudi Super Cup title, playing a key role within the team’s collective structure by defeating Al Nassr in the final.

With a contract extending to 2028 at Al Ahli, Toney is anticipated to stay in the Saudi Pro-League for a few more years. Nonetheless, the Englishman’s impressive form has reportedly caught the attention of Juventus FC. According to reports from Ekrem Konur, they even initiated talks for him in January 2026. In a surprising turn of events, the 29-year-old striker reportedly rejected the move, expressing his desire to continue excelling as a main star.

Toney draws comparison between Saudi Pro League and Premier League

Following his decision to leave Brentford, Ivan Toney was heavily criticized by fans, as he chose to move to the Saudi Pro League, an emerging competition. Not only did he have an offer from Al Ahli, but also from major clubs within the European elite. Nevertheless, the 29-year-old star has consistently defended the league’s competitive level and even went as far as making a surprising comparison with the Premier League that caught many fans off guard.

“I’ve said before and I’ll say it again, there are players in this league that could still play in the Premier League. The standard is high… If Al-Ahli were in the Premier League, we’d finish quite high. That’s my personal opinion. People might kill it, no problem. But I know my ­team-mates, and I know their ­qualities. You have to be on it every week, because if you’re not, you get pushed over. You have to be in the right mindset,” Toney said, via The Mirror.

Ivan Toney’s comments may have surprised many, but they reflect a reality that’s hard to ignore. Unlike many European clubs, teams in the Saudi Pro League possess the financial strength to sign multiple world-class stars like Sergej Milinković-Savić, , Fabinho, Riyad Mahrez, Franck Kessié, N’Golo Kanté, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kingsley Coman, Sadio Mané, and many others have the talent to easily shine in Europe.

With uncertainty regarding Lionel Messi's presence in the 2026 World Cup, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano issued a 3-word answer on the Argentina captain's situation.

Lionel Messi has begun his preparation for the 2026 World Cup by taking part in Inter Miami’s early preseason friendlies, hoping to replicate Argentina’s triumph from 2022. With the forward still reluctant to fully confirm his participation as Argentina’s captain, head coach Javier Mascherano offered clarity on Messi’s situation.

Throughout 2025, questions directed at Argentina players and head coach Lionel Scaloni centered on whether Messi, who will turn 39 during the tournament, would take part in the World Cup. The responses followed a similar theme: the hope remains that he will be there, but the final decision rests entirely with Messi.

In a November 2025 interview with Sport, Messi addressed the topic directly, once again leaving his future open while outlining his conditions. “The World Cup and playing for the national team are special, especially after having won it. I don’t want to be a burden — I want to feel good physically and be sure that I can help and contribute to the group,” Messi stated.

After Saturday’s friendly against Atlético Nacional, Mascherano spoke with reporters in the mixed zone and was asked whether he sees Messi at the World Cup. “Yes, why not?” Mascherano replied, offering a brief but telling response regarding Messi’s presence at the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Mascherano was also asked how he plans to manage preparation with the World Cup taking place during the 2026 club season: “I like to stay close to the players and, above all, understand how they’re feeling. No one knows their body better than they do. Obviously, we have our methods and we monitor things as well to make suggestions, but in the end it has to be a two-way dialogue with the players to understand their sensations.”

The Inter Miami coach also shared his thoughts on Argentina’s chances at the World Cup. “Argentina will approach it in the best possible way because it has been competing at a very high level for a long time, it has extraordinary players, and as an Argentine, I hope our national team does really well,” Mascherano added, suggesting there are no obstacles for Messi to be part of Scaloni’s squad.

Mascherano on Messi’s limited preseason minutes

Inter Miami returned to action on January 24 with a 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru, followed by a 2-1 win over Atlético Nacional in Colombia last Saturday. In both matches, Messi was substituted in the second half, despite large crowds turning out to see him play.

Against Alianza Lima, Messi was replaced in the 63rd minute by Daniel Pinter with Inter Miami leading 2-0. In Colombia, he came off in the 76th minute for Santiago Morales, with fans in both stadiums hoping to see more minutes from the Argentine star.

Asked about Messi’s fitness and minute management, Mascherano emphasized caution: “I understand that people might get upset because Messi had to come off, but my responsibility is to take care of him first. That’s the reality. I have to think of him first, then the team, because he’s our most important player ahead of this season.

“He played 75 minutes, which is 15 minutes more than the previous match, and we’ll proceed gradually like this in the remaining games,” Mascherano concluded. Inter Miami will next travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador, to face Barcelona SC at Banco Pichincha Stadium, where Messi is expected to log additional minutes as he continues preparing for the World Cup.

Karim Benzema has remained one of the best players in Al Ittihad. Despite this, the Frenchman's future is unclear, as there are reported problems with his contract renewal, and he is looking to leave. In light of this, he is eyeing a surprise destination, endangering his comeback to Europe.

After shining for more than a decade at Real Madrid, Karim Benzema surprised everyone by heading to Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League. Since his arrival, the Frenchman has continued to excel, winning two titles while scoring 54 goals and providing 17 assists in 83 appearances. However, his future at Al Ittihad is far from secure, leaving the door open to a possible early exit to a surprising destination—one that could jeopardize his return to Europe.

With a contract running until 2026, Al Ittihad sought to secure Karim Benzema’s continuity by presenting him with an unusual renewal offer. According to L’Équipe, the club proposed a new deal to the 38-year-old veteran without a base salary, instead granting him 100% of his image rights. Far from being an appealing proposal for the Frenchman, the striker reportedly took the offer poorly and decided to leave the club immediately.

According to Ben Jacobs on X, formerly Twitter, Karim Benzema is very close to leaving Al Ittihad, with a surprising move to Al Hilal gaining momentum. Additionally, Sacha Tavolieri reports that the Frenchman’s exit would cost around €25 million, making the operation far from straightforward. While the deal appears to be moving in the right direction, it is not fully decided, as the 38-year-old star is seeking a triumphant return to Europe.

Benzema’s arrival at Al Hilal may be imminent, but it is not yet certain. Now a veteran player, the Frenchman could seek a return to European leagues, with Olympique Lyon being his preferred destination as it was his childhood team. However, this return seems quite complex, as the French team is not in a good financial position and paying a high transfer fee would be difficult, but it would not be completely ruled out and would be a priority if an offer came in.

Benzema’s Al Ittihad tenure defined by ups and downs

Karim Benzema arrived at Al Ittihad as a true superstar, coming off a period of top form at Real Madrid and as the reigning Ballon d’Or winner. The Frenchman has left mixed feelings since his arrival in the Saudi Pro League, as he has had an undeniable impact on the club’s sporting project, but perhaps has not lived up to expectations. For this reason, his potential departure might not be entirely negative for the team.

Even though Benzema has already lifted a Saudi Pro League title and a Saudi Super Cup with Al Ittihad, he has not produced a goalscoring impact on the same level as Cristiano Ronaldo. While the Portuguese star has scored 111 goals in 127 matches for Al Nassr, the Frenchman has managed just 54 goals in 83 appearances. In addition, the 38-year-old star has failed to finish as the league’s top scorer, leaving a great deal of dissatisfaction among fans.

After being spotted limping in the last game, head coach Jorge Jesus reportedly made a final decision on Cristiano Ronaldo's availability for Al Nassr's next game.

Cristiano Ronaldo raised concern during Al Nassr’s recent match against Al Kholood after the Portuguese star was seen limping both before and after the game. With the next Saudi Pro League fixture approaching, head coach Jorge Jesus has now reportedly made a key decision regarding Ronaldo’s availability.

According to Ali Alabdallah, Jorge Jesus has opted to rest Ronaldo for Monday’s Matchday 20 clash against Al Riyadh. It will mark the first time the Portuguese forward is left out of Al Nassr’s squad for a Saudi Pro League match.

Earlier this season, Jesus had already limited Ronaldo’s minutes in the opening AFC Champions League Two fixtures to avoid playing him every three or four days across competitions. With a crucial matchup against Al Ittihad looming, the Portuguese coach has decided to take a similar precaution in league play.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo injured?

Videos circulating on social media showing Ronaldo limping as he arrived at the stadium sparked concern over his fitness. With Jesus choosing to leave him out of the squad to rest, questions have naturally arisen about a possible injury to Al Nassr’s top scorer.

However, reports indicate the limping was not caused by a new issue, but rather by a chronic knee condition dating back to 2014. The injury has reportedly led to tendon wear and reduced elasticity, which occasionally affects Ronaldo’s movement.

Despite the discomfort, Ronaldo played until the 79th minute and scored a tap-in goal against Al Kholood, assisted by João Félix. His most recent injury-related absence came on May 16, 2025, when a muscle strain sidelined him for a league match against Al Taawoun.

With Ronaldo, who leads Al Nassr with 18 goals in 22 appearances this season, set to miss the match against Al Riyadh, attention now turns to Jesus’ lineup choices. Still, with a high-profile clash against Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad scheduled for Friday the 6th, the manager appears focused on ensuring Ronaldo is fully fit for a much tougher test.

Following Marcus Rashford's impressive form, there are reports of Manchester United expressing interest in his potential return. In a surprising move, Hansi Flick's Barcelona have reportedly disclosed the terms of their contract with him.

Although his arrival did not promise much, Marcus Rashford has surprised everyone with his performance in Barcelona. After playing 31 games, the Englishman has scored nine goals, remaining among the team’s top scorers. In addition, he has improved his defensive contribution, playing a key role in the team. His impact has caught the attention of Manchester United, but the Hansi Flick’s team are reportedly taking a surprising stance on this interest.

Unlike his tenure at Aston Villa and the closing months at Manchester United, Marcus Rashford is reportedly rediscovering top form. He has adapted to a more team-oriented style of play, contributing defensively, and reinstating his scoring threat. Consequently, Manchester United seem open to the possibility of his return for the 2026–27 season, sparking concern among Barcelona fans.

Despite the Red Devils’ renewed interest, Barcelona remain optimistic about Rashford’s future with them. They possess a €30 million purchase option, which they could activate at season’s end, leaving Manchester United with limited options. However, this complicates matters, as the Blaugrana had hoped to negotiate a lower fee with the English club—a prospect that now seems unlikely, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Marcus Rashford has consistently expressed his desire to remain with Barcelona. Although he supports Manchester United, his tenure there was plagued by heavy criticism from fans and off-the-pitch issues. Since his arrival in Spain, the 28-year-old star seems to have found his ideal environment, enjoying a level of tranquility he rarely experienced in England. Moreover, he is supposedly willing to make financial sacrifices to stay within Hansi Flick‘s team.

Rashford emerges as a safe bet for Barcelona’s near future

Marcus Rashford has firmly established himself as one of Barcelona’s standout players. Not only does he consistently deliver in front of goal, but he also contributes significantly to the team’s overall play. Nonetheless, many fans consider the €30 million purchase option quite steep, especially given that he is already 28 years old. Even so, the Englishman represents a secure choice for Hansi Flick’s project, a shift from the risky investments of recent seasons.

Having demonstrated his ideal adaptation to Hansi Flick’s system, the permanent signing of the Englishman would be a safe bet, given his electrifying and distinctive profile. While this €30 million could be spent on a younger player who could be Raphinha’s long-term replacement, this would be quite a risky move, reminiscent of Malcom or Francisco Trincao. For this reason, letting the Englishman go would be a mistake, as he has shown talent to shine in the team.

After two consecutive victories, Liverpool appear to be emerging from their slump, finding an ideal balance for the team. In addition, Virgil van Dijk may have a new teammate, as the Reds are reportedly reaching an agreement to sign a right back amid a plague of injuries.

Liverpool continue to stay highly competitive despite facing several injury challenges. Having secured victories over Qarabag Agdam and Newcastle United, they’re striving to recapture the consistency that crowned them Premier League champions last season. Additionally, Virgil van Dijk may soon see a new face alongside him in defense. The Reds have reportedly reached an agreement to sign a right back in response to the current injury crisis.

According to Florian Plettenberg on X (formerly Twitter), Liverpool have reached a full agreement with RB Leipzig to sign Lutsharel Geertruida. As he is currently on loan at Sunderland, the departure of the 25-year-old star would depend on reaching an agreement to terminate his loan and being able to secure a replacement. With this move, the Reds would already have a replacement for the injured Conor Bradley.

Geertruida brings a more defensive profile to the table, offering Arne Slot greater balance. Additionally, the Dutchman is a versatile talent, capable of excelling as a right back, center back, and even as a defensive midfielder. He could significantly bolster Liverpool’s performance, which currently lacks defensive star power. Furthermore, his potential arrival might allow Jeremie Frimpong to shift into a more offensive role, where he has delivered his best performances.

Having already thrived under Slot at Feyenoord, the Dutchman has the potential to regain the form that once marked him as one of the world’s most promising stars. However, his move to Liverpool is not straightforward, as RB Leipzig must pay a compensation fee to terminate his loan at Sunderland, complicating negotiations. Despite this, Liverpool reportedly prioritize him due to his defensive solidity.

Liverpool face growing pressure to renew four stars before 2026-27

Following a season riddled with injuries and inconsistency, Liverpool seek to bolster their squad to restore stability following a successful era. Despite already making significant multimillion-pound investments, there remain key positions in need of reinforcement. Yet, the Reds confront an even more urgent priority: Securing contract renewals for four star players before the 2026–27 season.

Curtis Jones, Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, and Joe Gomez are nearing the final year of their contracts with the Reds. Each player is crucial to Arne Slot’s sporting project, and losing them as free agents could destabilize the team far more than any disruptions they have faced this week. Therefore, renewing the 34-year-old defender’s contract should be the top priority, as he remains a key asset due to his on-field performances and leadership.

Although Vinicius Jr. managed to break his scoring drought, not everything is positive as he will lose a key ally. Jude Bellingham had to leave the Real Madrid vs. Rayo Vallecano game after suffering an injury a few minutes into the game that could sideline him for a few weeks.

After a tough defeat against Benfica, Real Madrid faced Rayo Vallecano, eager for a win to avoid slipping into a slump. Leading the team’s offense, Vinicius Jr. ended his scoring drought, showcasing his impressive talent on the pitch. However, Los Blancos faced a significant setback when Jude Bellingham left the game just minutes after kickoff due to an injury that is expected to sideline him for several weeks.

Just eight minutes into the first half, Jude Bellingham sprinted to reach the ball and felt a twinge in his left hamstring, which left him on the ground. Following this, he had to leave the game, making way for Brahim Diaz. As reported by Real Madrid on their website Diario AS, the 22-year-old star was diagnosed with a Injury to the semitendinosus muscle in the left leg.

Even though Los Blancos chose not to provide a timeline for the Englishman’s recovery, Jude Bellingham is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks, according to Diario AS. Consequently, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will need to make significant changes to the starting lineup to maintain competitiveness.

Having the 2026 World Cup in a couple of months ahead, Bellingham star may not rush his comeback, avoiding a relapse on his injury. For that reason, coach Arbeloa may reintroduce Eduardo Camavinga into the midfield, chasing to regain the team’s balance. Nonetheless, Brahim Diaz could also step up, looking a more offensive focus. With a huge depth roster, Real Madrid should not be deeply affected with the Englishman’s injury.

Bellingham’s frustrating season at Real Madrid raises concern

Following his arrival in 2023, Jude Bellingham quickly emerged as Real Madrid’s offensive leader, scoring 23 goals in his debut season. Given this impressive start, many expected the Englishman to become one of the world’s top players. However, his performance has significantly declined, impacting both his scoring ability and overall contribution to the team. As a result, the 22-year-old is enduring a frustrating season with the Spanish side, fueling widespread doubts.

With the departures of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, Bellingham was tipped to be the natural replacement for both players, stepping forward to organize the team’s play. Despite this, he has failed to fulfill this task, leaving Alvaro Arbeloa without the balance in midfield that Arda Guler seems to provide. With Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. already leading the scoring, doubts arise about Jude and what his role in the team could be, as he seems unable to find it.

Jude Bellingham’s role shift may force Real Madrid players departures

Jude Bellingham made a significant impact at Borussia Dortmund, showcasing his abilities as a complete midfielder adept in both team dynamics and offensive play. Upon joining Real Madrid, the Englishman has emerged as one of the world’s top offensive players, excelling in scoring and assisting. In case he continues in this role, Rodrygo Goes and even Franco Mastantuono might face pressure to leave the team.

With Bellingham and Brahim Diaz sharing a similar profile, they could potentially dominate the right wing, pushing Rodrygo and Franco into secondary roles. While this does not necessarily mean both will depart, it’s possible that at least one may exit. Furthermore, amid the challenges of the current season, Real Madrid might pursue a midfield reinforcement to bring balance to the squad.

Tottenham will host Manchester City in a Matchday 24 clash of the 2025/26 Premier League. Below is everything you need to know about the matchup, including kickoff times and how to follow the action on TV and via streaming platforms.

Match Overview

Matchday 26 brings a headline Premier League matchup as two Big Six rivals clash with very different motivations. Manchester City come in needing a win after Arsenal’s victory over Leeds, knowing three points would cut the gap at the top to four and keep the title race within reach.

Tottenham, sitting on 28 points and outside the European places, see this as a chance to make a statement and jumpstart their season with a signature result. With urgency, pride, and momentum all on the line, this is a can’t-miss showdown—don’t miss a minute of the action.

Manchester United will face Fulham in a Matchday 24 clash of the 2025/26 Premier League. Below is everything you need to know about the matchup, including kickoff times and how to follow the action on TV and via streaming platforms.

Match Overview

The Champions League qualification fight takes center stage as Manchester United ride the momentum of a thrilling 3–2 win over league leaders Arsenal, a result that lifted the Red Devils into fourth place after Matchday 23.

Fulham, meanwhile, sit on 34 points and know a victory would pull them right back into the European mix, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash with major implications at the top of the table—don’t miss this one.

PSV and Feyenoord meet in a Matchday 21 clash of the 2025/2026 Eredivisie season. Fans in the United States can watch every moment of the showdown, with kickoff times and full TV and streaming broadcast information available.

Match Overview

The Eredivisie spotlight shines on a high-stakes derby as the league’s top two teams collide with the title race hanging in the balance. PSV sit comfortably in first place with 53 points and a commanding 14-point lead over second-place Feyenoord, a gap that puts the pressure squarely on the challengers.

Feyenoord need a win to keep their slim championship hopes alive, while PSV can further cement their dominance at the top with another statement result—making this a rivalry showdown no fan should miss.

Real Madrid host Rayo Vallecano on Matchday 22 of the 2025/26 La Liga season. Find here a complete viewing guide with kickoff details and broadcast information for live TV coverage and streaming services.

Match Overview

Barcelona’s latest win has turned up the heat in the La Liga title chase, putting Real Madrid in a position where three points are almost mandatory to keep pace at the top. Fresh off a disappointing night in the Champions League, all eyes will be on a Madrid squad eager to respond with authority and reassert themselves as true contenders.

But this won’t be a free pass, as Rayo Vallecano arrive in survival mode, clinging to safety by the slimmest of margins and fully aware that even a single point could prove crucial in their fight to avoid the drop—setting the stage for a tense, high-stakes showdown you won’t want to miss.

Club America host Necaxa on Matchday 4 of the Liga MX Clausura 2026. Below is a complete preview of the contest, featuring kickoff information and comprehensive TV and streaming options for viewers in the USA

Match Overview

Urgency will be front and center as Club America and Necaxa square off in a Clausura clash with early momentum on the line. America are still looking for its first win after three matches, while Necaxa hold a slight edge despite an inconsistent start.

Both teams know this is a chance to reset their season and make a statement looking to reach the Play-in positions—so make sure you don’t miss a matchup that could swing the trajectory for either side.

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.

In a story that has drawn attention across Europe, Jean-Philippe Mateta's highly anticipated transfer to Milan has hit unexpected turbulence.

In a story that has drawn attention across Europe, Jean-Philippe Mateta’s highly anticipated transfer to Milan has hit unexpected turbulence. The Premier League striker, who had been linked with a move that could have boosted his chances ahead of the 2026 World Cup, found himself caught in a stalemate that has left both Christian Pulisic‘s Milan and Premier League’s Crystal Palace scrambling.

The drama unfolded not on the pitch, but behind closed doors, as Milan attempted to secure the services of a forward who has scored 38 goals in the last two and a half Premier League seasons. Mateta’s move was seen as a potential game-changer for the Rossoneri, but a series of logistical hurdles has slowed progress, leaving fans and pundits alike guessing whether he will don the red and black shirt this season.

Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport reveal that Milan made overnight progress on a $36 million transfer fee with Crystal Palace, aiming to bring the French striker to Italy immediately rather than waiting for the summer window. The move, if completed, could dramatically alter the Scudetto race, giving the team a physical and prolific presence upfront to challenge Inter.

Milan’s interest in Mateta dates back to last May, when initial talks were hampered by a high valuation from the Eagles. With Juventus and Nottingham Forest now joining the pursuit, Christian Pulisic’s side acted quickly this month to secure the striker’s agreement. The Frenchman reportedly has agreed to personal terms worth $3.6-$4.1 million net per season plus bonuses, a contract running until 2030.

Obstacles stand in the way

Despite the progress, the deal has not yet been finalized. Crystal Palace must first secure a replacement striker before allowing Mateta to leave, with Norwegian forward Jorgen Strand Larsen, a former Milan youth player, the leading candidate. Only once this move is complete can Mateta travel to San Siro.

Niclas Fullkrug, already signed in January to reinforce the attack, has so far struggled to completely solve the Rossoneri’s goalscoring issues. Adding Mateta would give Massimiliano Allegri a true striker and a legitimate Serie A title contender.

Mateta’s frustration grows

While the negotiations play out, the player’s frustration is increasingly visible. The French striker took to Instagram, posting only an angry-face emoji, signaling his displeasure at the stalled transfer. He has also unfollowed Crystal Palace on social media, with his bio reading: “Ils comprendront un jour” — “They will understand one day.”

Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed that Mateta will not be part of the squad for the upcoming fixtures. Thus, Milan continues to push for an immediate January transfer, hoping Palace will give the green light once a replacement is secured. The next few hours and days could prove decisive, with Mateta’s eagerness to move to Italy clear, as per Sky Italia. If completed, the move would not only strengthen the Serie A giant’s attack but also offer Mateta a platform to showcase his talent ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Despite scoring regularly and remaining a central figure in the team’s attack, Ronaldo faced an unexpected setback: he missed out on the Saudi Pro League Player of the Month award, while the Golden Boot race took an intriguing twist.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s January 2026 has been, by most attacking metrics, highly productive. The Al-Nassr captain has logged heavy minutes, consistently featured in the starting lineup, and played a visible leadership role as his club navigated a demanding Saudi Pro League schedule. Yet, despite scoring regularly and remaining a central figure in the team’s attack, Ronaldo faced an unexpected setback: he missed out on the Saudi Pro League Player of the Month award, while the Golden Boot race took an intriguing twist.

Across January, Ronaldo appeared almost every three to four days, playing seven matches and scoring four goals, often staying on the pitch for the full 90 minutes. Match ratings reflected his steady contributions, generally hovering in the high-6 to low-7 range, peaking at 7.2 in some fixtures. These numbers underscored his reliability but also highlighted the absence of game-changing, headline-grabbing performances that often sway award voters.

He contributed directly to several goals and constantly occupied defenders, creating space for his teammates. However, it appears that he was not overwhelmingly decisive in the way voters tend to remember when awards are decided. For a league increasingly valuing both efficiency and game-defining moments, consistency alone was no longer enough to secure top individual honors.

What’s more, Al-Nassr’s performance in January was mixed. The month began with a run of defeats, which undermined the narrative of dominance and hurt the Portuguese’s candidacy for Player of the Month. Although the team recovered with important wins later, early losses weighed heavily in the eyes of voters. In the Saudi Pro League, individual recognition is often intertwined with team success, meaning that even stellar personal contributions can be overshadowed by inconsistent collective results.

Who won the SPL Player of the Month award?

While Ronaldo demonstrated consistency, another player produced moments impossible to ignore. Ivan Toney, leading the line for Al-Ahli, turned January into a statement month. The English forward scored 12 goals in seven matches, including two hat-tricks, helping his team climb the Saudi Pro League standings and edging past Ronaldo in the Golden Boot race.

Toney started the year with a brace against Al-Nassr, then scored doubles against Al-Taawoun, goals against Al-Okhdood and Al-Kholood, and finished the month with two hat-tricks against Al-Khaleej and Al-Ettifaq. “I feel like I’m doing well right now and that continuing to score goals [here in Saudi] will give me a stronger chance to get to what could be my only World Cup,” Toney said, highlighting his ambition to remain in contention for England’s squad.

Toney’s performances also earned him five ALJ Man of the Match awards in January, solidifying his claim as the Saudi League Player of the Month, the first Englishman to receive the honor and the first Al-Ahli player to win it since April 2025. His 18-goal total now puts him ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Qadsiah’s Julian Quinones (both at 17).

Still elite, still relevant

Missing out on the award does not diminish Ronaldo’s elite status. At 41, he remains one of the most reliable forwards in the Saudi Pro League, capable of playing full matches and maintaining standards that younger strikers often struggle to match. January 2026 reflected Ronaldo’s current phase: excellence without excess, leadership without individual accolades.

Meanwhile, Toney’s rise signals the intense competition at the top of the scoring charts. He has attracted attention from European clubs, including Juventus, but remains focused on maintaining form in Saudi Arabia to secure a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

Inter Miami defeated Atletico Nacional of Medellin 2-1 in their second friendly of the year. Lionel Messi played more than 70 minutes and was involved in one of the goals.

Inter Miami completed their second preseason friendly this Saturday, securing a 2-1 victory over Atletico Nacional in Colombia in a match that delivered drama until the final minute. The hosts had taken the early lead, but Lionel Messi’s team turned the game around in the second half.

During the first half, Inter Miami were outplayed by their opponents. Atletico Nacional were the more aggressive side in attack and created numerous scoring opportunities. In that context, Juan Manuel Rengifo made the difference, opening the scoring with a superb shot from outside the box.

However, things changed drastically after the break. Atletico Nacional made almost a full lineup change for the second half, and the Herons capitalized on it. Messi led his team, which controlled possession and, after several missed chances, equalized through Luis Suarez. Then, in the dying minutes, an own goal by Rivero handed the MLS side the victory.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano used this friendly to give some of the team’s new players valuable minutes. German Berterame came on in the second half to replace Luis Suarez, while Micael also made his first appearance in defense.

Even after Lionel Messi’s departure, moments on the pitch still seemed tethered to what once was; patterns that refused to change, records that stood untouched, and expectations shaped by a standard no one else had set.

For years, Lionel Messi’s presence lingered over Barcelona in ways that went far beyond memories or nostalgia. Even after his departure, moments on the pitch still seemed tethered to what once was; patterns that refused to change, records that stood untouched, and expectations shaped by a standard no one else had set. As the club continues its evolution, new faces like Marcus Rashford have arrived alongside established stars such as Robert Lewandowski and emerging talents like Lamine Yamal. Yet, despite the freshness of the project, certain barriers remained, quiet reminders of Messi’s era that felt impossible to overcome. On a tense European night, however, something shifted.

Barcelona’s final Champions League league-phase match against Copenhagen unfolded as a slow-burning statement rather than an immediate spectacle. The first half was cautious and measured, but after the break, the home side asserted control. Goals from Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha transformed the contest, turning uncertainty into dominance.

With qualification already within reach, the atmosphere inside Camp Nou changed when Marcus Rashford was introduced from the bench with less than 20 minutes remaining. The England international, still adjusting to life at the club, played with a sharp sense of purpose — direct, confident, and decisive. Then, in the 85th minute, Rashford delivered the final blow, sealing a 4-1 victory and confirming progression to the round of 16. The celebration was immediate, but the significance of the moment went far deeper than a routine goal.

For the first time since Lionel Messi’s departure in 2021, Barcelona had scored a direct free-kick in the Champions League. The last player to achieve the feat was Messi himself, on May 1, 2019, when he dismantled Liverpool with a devastating set-piece in the semi-final. More than five years — over 2,000 days — had passed without another Barcelona player replicating it on Europe’s biggest stage.

Drought that defined the post-Messi years

Since Messi’s exit, free-kicks had become a source of frustration for Barcelona supporters. Efforts regularly clipped the wall, drifted wide, or sailed harmlessly over the crossbar. In the Champions League alone, the club had taken more than 50 direct free-kicks without scoring before Rashford stepped up.

Across all competitions, the numbers were scarcely better. Barcelona had managed just three free-kick goals in total, with the most recent coming from Ferran Torres in September 2023. In Europe, however, the drought was absolute — until now. Rashford’s goal did more than end a statistic. It felt like closure.

The records that Messi still holds at Barcelona

That sense of closure inevitably leads to a broader truth: even years after his departure, Lionel Messi still owns the majority of Barcelona’s most important records — and they remain daunting landmarks for the current generation.

Most appearances in official competitions

Messi played 778 official games for Barcelona — more than anyone else in club history. 

Most goals in Barcelona history (all competitions)

With 672 goals for the club, he remains Barcelona’s all-time top scorer — far ahead of the next player on the list. 

Most Barcelona goals in La Liga

Messi scored 474 La Liga goals for Barça, the highest tally ever for a player at the club. 

Most trophies won as a Barcelona player

He won more major honours with Barcelona than any other player in the club’s history. 

Most appearances in La Liga for Barcelona

Messi holds the all-time record for most league matches played for Barca. 

Beyond the headline records above, the Argentine also leads or holds many other longstanding Blaugrana marks that are unlikely to be beaten soon:

• Most assists in official competitions for Barcelona. 
• Most goals scored in Barcelona’s history in European and international club competitions. 
• Most hat-tricks scored for the club in official matches (he had more than any other Barcelona player). 
• Most goals in Copa del Rey finals for Barcelona. 
• Most matches won with the club (as a player in victories). 
• Unique scoring feats such as being the youngest Barcelona player to reach 100/200 goals.

Who is chasing Messi’s long-standing records?

Among the current squad, Robert Lewandowski is the most prolific scorer of the post-Messi era, surpassing the 100-goal mark for the club. Yet even he sits hundreds of goals away from Messi’s totals. The gap is not symbolic — it is structural.

Lamine Yamal, still only at the beginning of his career, is the only player whose age and creative output place him anywhere near long-term discussions about assists or influence. Even then, the scale of Messi’s numbers makes comparisons almost theoretical.

Marcus Rashford’s free-kick did not put him on track to break Messi’s records — but it placed him in a unique historical footnote. He accomplished something that no Barcelona player had managed in Europe for half a decade.

While one signature has already been secured, another, equally symbolic, remains unresolved, hovering in the background as Milan carefully plans its next move.

A new chapter is quietly taking shape at Milan, and it begins with stability. With Mike Maignan committing his long-term future to the club and Christian Pulisic continuing to define matches with decisive moments, the Rossoneri are laying the foundations of a renewal era designed to protect their most valuable pillars. While one signature has already been secured, another, equally symbolic, remains unresolved, hovering in the background as Milan carefully plans its next move.

Behind the scenes at Casa Milan, the message is clear: this is no longer a club willing to gamble with time. Lessons from the past have been learned, and the priority now is continuity. Thus, the Rossoneri have officially locked down their captain. In a statement released by the club, they confirmed that Mike Maignan has signed a new contract running until June 2031, ending months of uncertainty and speculation surrounding his future.

“AC Milan is pleased to announce the renewal of Mike Maignan’s contract until June 30, 2031,” the club said in its official announcement. “Arriving in the Rossoneri in the summer of 2021, Mike immediately established himself as one of the reference points of the group, distinguishing himself for leadership, reliability and spirit of sacrifice, until he became Captain and central figure of the team.”

Since arriving from Lille in 2021 to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma, Maignan has evolved into far more than a goalkeeper. He has become a leader, a reference point, and a symbol of Milan’s modern identity. Across 188 appearances, the French international played a decisive role in the 2021-22 Scudetto, later lifting the Italian Super Cup, while also earning the award for Serie A’s best goalkeeper in his debut season.

From uncertainty to commitment

Just months ago, Maignan’s renewal appeared unlikely. Injuries, dips in form, and strained communication with the club hierarchy had fueled rumors of a potential exit, with Chelsea among the clubs monitoring his situation.

Italian media described the negotiations as tense throughout the summer. However, a turning point arrived toward the end of December, when Gazzetta dello Sport reported renewed optimism following improved performances and a significantly enhanced contract offer.

According to reports, Milan has nearly doubled Maignan’s salary to around $6 million net per season, with performance bonuses potentially adding another $2.4 million. Crucially, the deal includes a club-controlled option for an additional year, giving the club full authority to extend the contract to 2031 without requiring player approval. This structure reflects a shift in policy: the Serie A giant now wants control, not uncertainty.

Renewal strategy takes shape with focus on Pulisic

Maignan’s signature is not an isolated event. It is the opening move in a broader renewal plan. The club’s management has scheduled multiple meetings with agents to discuss extensions for key figures. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Fikayo Tomori, and Strahinja Pavlovic are all under consideration. At the same time, Luka Modric’s future remains entirely in his own hands. Yet one name towers above the rest, as attention inevitably turns to Christian Pulisic.

The American has become the Rossoneri’s most decisive attacking weapon, producing goals, assists, and match-turning moments with relentless consistency. Despite illness, minor setbacks, and rotation, his output has been extraordinary: nine goals in nine appearances across competitions, scoring once every 61 minutes.

His current contract runs until June 2027, with a club option to extend until 2028. However, Milan is determined not to repeat past mistakes by waiting too long. According to Corriere della Sera, talks are expected to restart in the spring, once the season’s immediate pressures subside. Milan intends to extend Pulisic’s deal beyond 2027, targeting a new agreement to secure him through the next cycle of the project.

Timothy Weah had voiced his opinion on ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino made it clear that he disagrees with those comments.

Ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been a source of controversy in recent weeks, and the topic has now drawn attention within the United States men’s national team. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino addressed remarks previously made by Timothy Weah.

“It is too expensive… Football should still be enjoyed by everyone. It is the most popular sport. This World Cup will be good, but it will be more of a show,” Weah said in an interview with Le Dauphine several weeks ago.

Pochettino was later asked about those comments during a press conference and offered a very different perspective from the winger. “Players need to talk on the pitch playing football. It’s not his duty to evaluate the price of the ticket,” the coach said bluntly when addressing Weah’s remarks.

“It’s not about us to provide our opinion. Our responsibility is to play and perform on the pitch,” Mauricio added, including himself in that stance. “My duty is to prepare the team in the best way to perform. We are not politicians; we are sports people. We can talk about our jobs.”

Pochettino shows confidence in FIFA’s decisions

While making his disagreement with Tim Weah’s position clear, Mauricio Pochettino not only avoided criticizing FIFA’s decisions, but also expressed satisfaction with how the sport is being managed globally. “FIFA is doing an amazing job around the world, uniting people,” the coach said.

“If FIFA does something or makes some decision, they know why and it is their responsibility to explain why. I think for sure you need the media to ask directly to FIFA,” Pochettino added. “We need to be focusing on the sports side and trust in the organization that is in charge of soccer or football around the world that they are going to do the right things.”

Tim Weah under coach Pochettino

Since the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino, Timothy Weah’s involvement with the USMNT has been inconsistent. The winger was not included in the coach’s first call-ups after taking over in September 2024 and only returned to the squad in November of that year, when he appeared against Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League.

After a couple of appearances in early 2025, Weah was left out of the Gold Cup and only returned for friendlies in September and October. However, Pochettino did not include him in the November FIFA international window. Those ups and downs hardly guarantee Weah a spot at the 2026 World Cup, and it remains to be seen whether this recent controversy will have any impact.

Cristiano Ronaldo may soon be at the center of yet another surprising transfer storyline as Al-Nassr monitors a resurgent South American star whose European dream once unraveled far too early.

Cristiano Ronaldo may soon be at the center of yet another surprising transfer storyline as Al-Nassr monitors a resurgent South American star whose European dream once unraveled far too early. While Barcelona, the former club of Lionel Messi, continues to navigate financial constraints, an unexpected opportunity for a lucrative windfall is quietly emerging. What makes the story even more intriguing is that the player in question was once written off as a failed experiment in Europe, only to reinvent himself spectacularly thousands of miles away.

As the Saudi Pro League intensifies its global recruitment strategy, Al-Nassr is scanning the market for attacking talent capable of making an immediate impact. And somewhere between redemption, reinvention, and raw potential, one former Barcelona forward has forced his name back into elite conversations.

Not long ago, this forward’s time in Europe appeared over before it had properly begun. Signed with high expectations, his brief stint at Camp Nou failed to ignite, and a subsequent loan spell did little to change the narrative. When he returned to Brazil, many viewed it as a step backward. Instead, it became the turning point of his career.

Once dubbed one of Brazil’s brightest prospects, Vitor Roque has rediscovered the aggressive, vertical edge that originally drew European giants to him. Under Abel Ferreira at Palmeiras, he has matured into a decisive forward rather than a developmental project. His performances have earned him renewed attention from the Brazil national team, with the 2026 World Cup looming and Carlo Ancelotti reportedly monitoring his progress closely.

Since joining Palmeiras in a deal worth $30 million, Brazilian striker has flourished. Across 59 competitive matches, he has delivered 20 goals and five assists, transforming himself into the club’s attacking reference point. Confidence, continuity, and trust replaced uncertainty, and the results have been explosive. According to the CIES Football Observatory, his market value has now surged to nearly $99 million, more than triple the Brazilian side’s initial investment. That meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed.

Deco reveals why Vitor Roque failed at Barcelona

Barcelona sporting director Deco has spoken candidly about why the move never worked, stressing that the club’s decision was never about a lack of quality. “From a quality standpoint, I don’t think we made a mistake,” he explained. “Our plan was to sign a future successor to Robert Lewandowski.”

The problem, according to Deco, was timing and context. “He moved to a new country and joined a big club, facing a lot of pressure, while not getting enough playing time to adapt properly,” he added. A loan move was meant to stabilize the situation, but that too fell short. “His loan didn’t go as hoped, and then we received an offer from Palmeiras. We decided this was the best solution for everyone.” Barcelona recovered its investment, and may soon profit again.

Why Al-Nassr is watching closely

According to Portuguese journalist Pablo Oliveira, Al-Nassr has emerged as a serious admirer of Roque, viewing him as a long-term attacking asset rather than a short-term gamble. The Saudi club’s interest aligns perfectly with its strategy: acquire players entering or approaching their prime, elevate the league’s sporting level, and create resale value — all while competing for domestic and continental titles.

For Roque, the appeal is different. Saudi Arabia offers stability, visibility, and a chance to continue growing without the relentless pressure that accompanied his early European move. Although Barca has no plans to bring the striker back, it is closely watching his next move, and for a good reason. When Palmeiras signed him, the Catalans smartly included a 20% sell-on clause in the deal. That clause could soon prove invaluable.

While Vinicius continues to dominate headlines as a dream target for Saudi soccer, attention is quietly shifting toward another familiar face from Ronaldo’s storied past.

Cristiano Ronaldo is once again shaping the direction of Al-Nassr as the Saudi Pro League prepares for another transformational summer. With sweeping changes expected across the league, the Portuguese icon finds himself at the heart of ambitious recruitment plans that could redefine the competitive balance next season. While Vinicius continues to dominate headlines as a dream target for Saudi soccer, attention is quietly shifting toward another familiar face from Ronaldo’s storied past.

As the European season approaches its conclusion, Saudi Pro league clubs are positioning themselves for a bold summer offensive. Contracts are expiring, strategies are evolving, and global stars are once again being tempted by a league determined to cement itself among soccer’s elite.

Although the winter window remains open, the biggest moves are being deliberately held back. According to The Telegraph, Saudi soccer officials are planning their most aggressive recruitment drive yet once Europe’s campaigns conclude.

The logic is simple: replace outgoing contracts with world-class names, raise the league’s international profile, and sustain its rapid sporting evolution. Among the names repeatedly linked are Vinicius Junior, Robert Lewandowski, Ousmane Dembele, and Mohamed Salah, superstars under contracts whose transfers would be extraordinarily complex, but financially achievable.

Salah’s symbolic status across the Arab world makes him a recurring target, while Vinicius represents the ultimate statement signing. Yet behind the headlines, Saudi decision-makers are also pursuing more attainable, strategically crucial reinforcements.

Familiar midfield general enters the frame

While speculation around Vinicius continues, reports indicate that Cristiano Ronaldo is actively encouraging Al-Nassr to pursue a different former Real Madrid teammate — one whose experience, leadership, and winning pedigree could immediately elevate the squad. That mystery name is Casemiro.

The Brazilian midfielder has confirmed he will leave Manchester United at the end of the season after the club declined to extend his contract. At 33 years old, Casemiro will become a free agent in June, instantly making him one of the most attractive veterans on the global market. According to LiveScore, Al-Nassr has already held initial talks with the Brazilian’s representatives, with Ronaldo himself believed to be a driving force behind the potential reunion.

Why Casemiro makes sense for Al-Nassr

Casemiro’s profile fits perfectly into Al-Nassr’s current needs. The club is searching for midfield stability, leadership, and big-game composure — qualities the Brazilian has displayed throughout a glittering career.

He and Ronaldo spent five seasons together at Real Madrid, winning three Champions League titles, and briefly reunited at Manchester United, where Casemiro famously assisted Ronaldo’s 700th club goal. Despite interest from MLS and Brazil, Saudi Arabia offers something unique: elite competition, financial security, and the chance to remain at the highest level alongside Ronaldo, who continues to defy age.

Manchester United coach Michael Carrick reportedly has plans regarding Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona.

The situation at Manchester United has drastically changed in recent weeks. The dismissal of Ruben Amorim initially caused uncertainty, but the results under Michael Carrick have brought stability to the club. In this context, Carrick is reportedly planning to bring Marcus Rashford back to Old Trafford, ending his loan spell at Barcelona.

According to Telegraph Sport, Carrick intends for the Red Devils to recall Rashford and reintegrate him into the squad for the 2026-27 season, effectively ending his time at Barcelona. Of course, this depends on Carrick being confirmed as the permanent head coach, something that has yet to happen.

Rashford is currently on loan at Barcelona until the end of the 2025-26 season, but the Catalan club has the option to make the move permanent this summer by activating the €35 million ($41 million) buyout clause. If Barcelona decide to do so, Manchester United would have no say in the forward’s permanent departure.

Reports suggest Barcelona are satisfied with Rashford’s performances so far, having scored 9 goals and provided 12 assists in 31 appearances across all competitions. However, in Hansi Flick’s mind, he is a backup option, behind Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha. The question remains whether Barcelona will be willing to pay over $40 million for a player who is not even a starter.

Rashford would be a valuable addition for Manchester United

The improvement in Manchester United’s performances under Michael Carrick has been linked to strong contributions from several key offensive players. Bryan Mbeumo has been pivotal, scoring goals, including against Manchester City and Arsenal. Additionally, players like Matheus Cunha, despite not always being a starter, Amad Diallo, Benjamin Sesko, and Patrick Dorgu have all stood out.

In this context, bringing Marcus Rashford back would further elevate Manchester United’s attack, adding a new offensive option to compete with the aforementioned stars. Furthermore, the English forward’s experience could be crucial when aiming for major objectives.

Carrick knows Rashford well

Michael Carrick’s positive evaluation of Marcus Rashford is not just based on the forward’s recent performances at Barcelona. It’s also rooted in Carrick’s first-hand knowledge of Rashford, having played alongside him years ago.

Rashford made his professional debut for the Red Devils during the 2015-16 season, when Carrick was still a player at the club. In fact, the former midfielder remained with Manchester United for the next two seasons, allowing him to closely observe Rashford’s abilities. That familiarity could weigh heavily in Carrick’s decision to bring him back to the club.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami play their second preseason friendly this Saturday against Atletico Nacional of Medellin.

Inter Miami continue to ramp up preparations for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, using preseason matches to build fitness and sharpen their competitive edge. This Saturday, they will face Atletico Nacional of Medellin, with all eyes once again on Lionel Messi.

For the Herons, this will be their second preseason friendly after a 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru one week ago. Head coach Javier Mascherano is still awaiting the arrival of several players whose administrative clearances have not yet been approved, meaning a number of key squad members will be unavailable.

On the other side stands one of Colombia’s most successful clubs, who have already begun their 2026 Apertura tournament campaign with a dominant 4-0 win over Boyaca Chico and are also preparing to compete in the Copa Sudamericana. The anticipation surrounding Lionel Messi’s visit is expected to result in a sellout crowd of nearly 45,000 spectators.

Projected lineup for Atletico Nacional

Despite being in the middle of official competition, Atletico Nacional are expected to field most of their star players against Inter Miami on Saturday. This includes Colombia national team goalkeeper David Ospina, a former Arsenal player and former teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.

Head coach Diego Arias is expected to line up his team as follows: David Ospina; Milton Casco, William Tesillo, Andres Roman, Simon Garcia; Juan Zapata, Andres Sarmiento, Edwin Cardona; Juan Rengifo, Marlos Moreno, Dairon Asprilla.

Projected lineup for Inter Miami

As was the case last week in Peru, head coach Javier Mascherano is expected to start a lineup largely made up of players who were already part of the roster last season, though the team will be missing notable names such as Tadeo Allende. Several new signings are also absent from the starting XI, including Micael, Sergio Reguilon, and German Berterame.

Inter Miami’s projected lineup to face Atletico Nacional of Medellin is: Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen, Facundo Mura; Rodrigo de Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Mateo Silvetti.

Liverpool host Newcastle in a Matchday 24 clash of the 2025/26 Premier League season. Here’s everything you need to know, including kickoff times and how to watch on TV and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

Liverpool remain firmly in the European qualification race despite a recent setback. A loss to Bournemouth, combined with wins by Manchester United and Chelsea, dropped the Reds to sixth place and temporarily outside the continental spots, increasing the pressure in an already crowded table.

With little margin for error, Liverpool now target a statement result against a direct rival, as Newcastle also look to push their way into contention; the Magpies sit slightly further back but view this matchup as a pivotal opportunity, knowing a win over Liverpool could significantly reshape the battle for European places.

Elche host Barcelona in a Matchday 22 clash of the 2025/26 La Liga. Here’s everything you need to know, including kickoff times and how to watch the action live on TV and streaming platforms.

Barcelona head into this key La Liga clash carrying momentum from a Matchday 21 win over Real Oviedo, but with no room to slip at the top of the table. The league leaders hold only a one-point cushion over Real Madrid, making a victory vital to stay in control of the title race.

Elche, meanwhile, sit 11th yet remain just three points above the relegation zone, adding extra urgency as they look to pull further clear of trouble. With pressure on both sides, this is one matchup you won’t want to miss—be sure to catch all the action.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence continues to ripple through the Saudi league, attracting ambitious young talents eager to test themselves alongside one of soccer’s greatest icons.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence continues to ripple through the Saudi league, attracting ambitious young talents eager to test themselves alongside one of soccer’s greatest icons. This winter, that gravitational pull brought a highly rated Iraqi midfielder to Al-Nassr, marking one of the most symbolic moves of the season for the club. For Ronaldo, it meant welcoming another new teammate into a dressing room already packed with experience and expectation. For the player himself, it was the fulfilment of a dream years in the making, though one that has quickly taken an unexpected turn.

Al-Nassr’s winter activity has been notably restrained, making this signing stand out even more. As the club’s only confirmed arrival of 2026, the move carried weight beyond squad depth, signaling an intent to blend regional talent with global stardom. Yet just days after officially joining, early signs suggest the road ahead may not be as smooth as first imagined.

The Knight of Nadj moved swiftly to secure Hayder Abdulkareem from the Iraqi side, Al-Zawraa, after intensive negotiations. The deal saw the Saudi Pro League side pay approximately $500,000, with Al-Zawraa retaining a 15% sell-on clause — a strong indication of how highly the Iraqi club values its academy product. Abdulkareem signed a two-and-a-half-year contract running until June 2026, with an option for an additional year in the club’s favor.

From a personal standpoint, the move represented a major leap. His reported annual salary of around $450,000 reflects both Al-Nassr’s belief in his potential and the scale of opportunity now in front of him.

Jorge Jesus’ personal endorsement

Apparently, one of the defining factors behind the transfer was head coach Jorge Jesus, who personally pushed for the signing after monitoring Abdulkareem in continental competition. The Portuguese coach was particularly impressed by the midfielder’s composure and tactical awareness during the AFC Champions League 2 encounters.

Multiple Saudi reports confirmed that the signing was made on Jesus’ direct recommendation, underlining the expectations placed on the 21-year-old as he integrates into a squad featuring seasoned internationals — including Cristiano Ronaldo.

The blow revealed

However, just three days after joining — and despite already training with the squad — the optimism has tempered. Abdulkareem was notably excluded from the matchday squad against Al-Kholood, raising immediate questions.

According to former Al-Nassr legal director and club insider Saad Al-Subaie, the situation is now clearer — and more restrictive than many expected. The insider revealed that Abdulkareem will only feature in the AFC Champions League 2 and selected league matches, rather than being a regular domestic option. The reason is tactical. Angelo remains Jorge Jesus’ first-choice midfielder, with Abdulkareem viewed as a developmental option rather than an immediate starter.

Further context adds another layer to the story. According to the same insider, Abdulkareem was not the club’s first choice. The Riyadh outfit had initially explored moves for Lamine Camara and a Bundesliga midfielder, but financial constraints pushed the committee toward a more economical option.

“The management insisted on Hayder Abdulkareem due to the financial situation,” the insider explained. As a result, the Iraqi midfielder arrived as a strategic compromise, not a headline signing — a reality that now shapes his early role at the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo once again found himself at the center of attention as Al-Nassr delivered a statement victory that reshaped the Saudi Pro League title race.

Cristiano Ronaldo once again found himself at the center of attention as Al-Nassr delivered a statement victory that reshaped the Saudi Pro League title race. In a season defined by momentum swings and relentless pressure at the top, the club traveled to Buraidah to face Al-Kholood, knowing that anything less than three points would all but end its ambitions. Instead, Al-Nassr responded with authority — and Ronaldo, inevitably, delivered when it mattered most.

The night ended with a comfortable scoreline, a crucial climb up the table, and a brief yet striking message from Ronaldo that immediately caught the attention of supporters and rivals alike. It was short, direct, and loaded with meaning — a reflection of both personal milestones and collective belief.

Jorge Jesus’ side began the match in control, dominating possession and territory from the opening whistle. However, despite the pressure, Al-Kholood resisted. Then, everything changed within minutes of the restart. Just two minutes into the second half, the visitors finally found the breakthrough, and it came through the familiar Portuguese connection.

Joao Felix timed his run perfectly, broke the offside trap, and squared the ball unselfishly for Cristiano Ronaldo, who tapped into an empty net. The goal was simple in execution, but monumental in significance. It marked Ronaldo’s 17th Saudi Pro League goal of the season and the 961st goal of his professional career, bringing him ever closer to the unprecedented 1,000-goal milestone.

Title race reignited

With confidence surging, Al-Nassr struck again just six minutes later. Joao Felix delivered a precise corner to the near post, where Mohamed Simakan rose highest to power home a commanding header. From that moment on, the contest tilted decisively. Al-Kholood struggled to respond, and matters worsened when captain Hattan Bahebri was sent off following a VAR review for an off-the-ball elbow on Simakan.

Reduced to ten men, the home side could no longer contain the visitors. Al-Nassr continued to probe, and the third goal arrived late when Kingsley Coman converted a penalty after being fouled inside the area. The final whistle confirmed a 3-0 victory, its fourth consecutive league win, and a return to second place in the table.

The result carried major implications. Al-Nassr moved to 43 points from 18 matches, closing the gap to league leader Al-Hilal to just three points. With Al-Hilal having dropped points in recent rounds, the balance of the title race has shifted once more. Defensive solidity has returned, attacking confidence is growing, and belief is spreading through the squad.

What did Ronaldo say after the game?

After the final whistle, Cristiano Ronaldo took to social media to write, “RISING!” There was no long caption, no explanation; just a single word accompanying images of celebration with teammates. That one word captured everything: Al-Nassr’s resurgence, the Portuguese’s relentless pursuit of history, and a club refusing to fade quietly from the title conversation.

A player who won the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid has criticized Kylian Mbappe.

The past few weeks have been turbulent for Real Madrid. A coaching change, elimination from the Spanish Super Cup, and several poor results in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League have dealt heavy blows to Kylian Mbappe and his teammates.

In that context, Mbappe offered strong comments about Real Madrid’s current situation following the loss to Benfica, which forced Los Blancos into the Champions League playoff round instead of direct qualification to the round of 16: “We aren’t being consistent in our play. We have to solve that. We can’t do it one day and then not another. A team of champions doesn’t do that… It’s about having more desire than your opponent.”

Days later, Predrag Mijatovic gave an interview to Cadena SER and shared a blunt assessment of Real Madrid’s current problems. “I think more than lacking players, what’s missing is a leader. I don’t know, a Sergio Ramos, a Modric, a Benzema, a Fernando Hierro,” said the former Yugoslavia striker. “This current Real Madrid team doesn’t have a leader figure who, in difficult moments, grabs you by the collar and asks, ‘What are you doing?’”

When asked whether the French star could fill that role as the team’s main reference point, Mijatovic was clear. “Mbappe is not a leader,” he said without hesitation. “All of Mbappe’s goals do not make him a leader. Being a leader is something else: it can be a player with less quality, but with personality and character, someone who is the coach on the field and whom the players listen to.”

However, Predrag did acknowledge Mbappe’s qualities. “He’s a tremendous player,” he admitted, before immediately offering an example to explain his point: “You know that Zidane with the French national team was never the leader—Deschamps or Blanc were. He was the best player, but not the leader.”

Who is Predrag Mijatovic?

There is no doubt that Predrag Mijatovic’s harsh words carry significant weight given who they come from. The Yugoslavia striker was a star of European soccer for years, scoring 176 goals in 534 club appearances.

After standing out in the Yugoslav league, Mijatovic arrived in La Liga in 1993 and quickly made his mark at Valencia. That led to a move to Real Madrid, where he played from 1996 to 1999, making 118 appearances, scoring 36 goals, and winning four titles, including the 1997–98 UEFA Champions League. He later continued his career with Fiorentina and Levante, retiring in 2003.

Mijatovic points the finger at Real Madrid’s players

In the same conversation with Cadena SER, Predrag Mijatovic also offered a diagnosis of who he believes is responsible for Real Madrid’s disappointing season. “We have to start asking whether this can really be fixed by a coach,” he said. “The president is not to blame. I think the players need to wake up a bit and ask themselves how they can improve.”

In that way, the former Montenegro forward made it clear that speculation about Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa, or potential new coaches such as Jurgen Klopp or Unai Emery matters little if the players fail to rise to the level required to meet the challenges ahead.

As attention turns toward Al-Ittihad’s internal dynamics, the absence of the club’s captain has raised eyebrows, fueled speculation, and forced the head coach into an uncomfortable public spotlight.

Karim Benzema and Sergio Conceicao now find themselves at the center of one of the Saudi Pro League’s most delicate situations. What began as a routine league fixture has spiraled into a wider debate about contracts, respect, and the long-term sustainability of elite European stars in the Middle East. As attention turns toward Al-Ittihad’s internal dynamics, the absence of the club’s captain has raised eyebrows, fueled speculation, and forced the head coach into an uncomfortable public spotlight.

With Karim Benzema, a Ballon d’Or winner and global icon, unexpectedly missing from a key matchday squad, the discussion has shifted from tactics to governance. Meanwhile, Sergio Conceicao, newly tasked with stabilizing the project on the pitch, has been left navigating questions that extend far beyond soccer. While details initially remained carefully guarded, the story behind Benzema’s silence has now begun to surface — and it paints a picture of growing tension between player and club.

Following Al-Ittihad’s 2-2 draw against Al-Fateh, questions inevitably turned toward Benzema’s absence. Reports suggested that the striker had personally requested not to be selected, citing unresolved contractual issues. When pressed, Conceicao refused to be drawn into administrative matters, offering a firm but respectful response. “You will have to ask the club about Karim Benzema. I am here to train, prepare for matches, achieve results, and win titles. Everything else is outside my responsibilities,” Conceicao told reporters.

The Portuguese coach did, however, take care to publicly defend his captain’s professionalism. “I can say that Karim is a great professional, a fantastic player, and I am proud to coach him,” he added. Those words carried weight. They signaled internal respect while simultaneously underscoring that the dispute sits squarely with club leadership, not the technical staff.

The offer that changed everything

The mystery surrounding Benzema’s situation began to unravel midway through the week. Reports from L’Equipe, later echoed by Fabrizio Romano, revealed that Al-Ittihad had presented Benzema with an unconventional renewal proposal — one that sharply diverged from expectations.

According to Romano, the structure of the offer proved decisive. “Karim Benzema received a new contract proposal from Al Ittihad that is not what he expected,” Romano explained. “Benzema feels the promises coming from the club since last summer were different about a new contract.” The proposal would have extended Benzema’s stay beyond the expiration of his current deal, but without a traditional fixed salary, instead compensating him entirely through image rights payments.

In other words, playing without a base wage. “Basically, playing for free without any extra money, but just paid his image rights immediately,” Romano added. For a player of Benzema’s stature — and status as one of the highest-paid players in the world, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi — the offer was perceived as deeply disrespectful.

The captain steps aside

The disagreement reached a public breaking point when Benzema declined to feature against Al-Fateh. For a player who recorded 30 goal contributions during Al-Ittihad’s title-winning campaign and has already scored 16 goals in all competitions this season, the decision was extraordinary.

According to ESPN, Benzema felt “disrespected” by the proposal and has since been training away from the main squad while considering his future. The situation is further complicated by the league’s structure. Contract renewals for high-profile foreign players reportedly fall under centralized Saudi Pro League oversight, limiting Al-Ittihad’s direct control over negotiations.

Milan is quietly evaluating an intriguing opportunity that could reunite Pulisic with a familiar international teammate, one whose future suddenly appears far less certain than expected.

Christian Pulisic has already become a central figure in Milan’s long-term project, but the club’s ambitions may stretch even further ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Behind the scenes, Milan is quietly evaluating an intriguing opportunity that could reunite Pulisic with a familiar international teammate, one whose future suddenly appears far less certain than expected. While the idea may seem unlikely at first glance, shifting circumstances at a domestic rival have opened the door to a potential move that fits Massimiliano Allegri‘s strategy and tactical play.

With the Rossoneri looking to reinforce the midfield without committing to an expensive transfer fee, the club has begun tracking situations that could offer high value at minimal cost. One such case involves a versatile American international whose contract status has placed him firmly on the radar — not just in Italy, but across Europe. For Pulisic, the possibility of sharing the dressing room with a fellow USMNT leader again could represent continuity at club level ahead of a defining phase for the national team.

Milan’s recruitment philosophy has shifted toward targeting players nearing contract expiry who can immediately contribute at a high level. According to Calciomercato, the club has identified Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie, whose renewal talks have stalled, making him a realistic option on a free transfer. The player’s importance has surged since the arrival of a new coach in Turin, transforming him from a rotational figure into a tactical cornerstone.

That evolution has not gone unnoticed at San Siro, where depth, intensity, and tactical flexibility are seen as essential to sustaining domestic and European competitiveness. Despite Juventus’ desire to secure a renewal, no agreement has yet been reached, leaving rival clubs alert. The Rossoneri, in particular, see the situation as an opportunity rather than a gamble.

Tactical revival changes everything

The turning point in this story came with Luciano Spalletti’s arrival. Under the Italian coach, the American midfielder has enjoyed a dramatic resurgence, starting virtually every match and contributing decisively in both domestic and European competition.

His attacking output has been especially eye-catching: two league goals and three in the Champions League, many of them arriving in pivotal moments. Spalletti’s faith in the player has gone so far that he has deployed him across multiple roles, even pushing him into advanced attacking positions.

Why Milan makes sense after the World Cup

From Milan’s perspective, McKennie represents experience, tactical versatility, and international pedigree. These qualities align perfectly with Pulisic’s presence in the squad. Both players are expected to be central figures for the USMNT at the 2026 World Cup, and continuity at club level could enhance chemistry on the international stage.

The possibility of a return to the United States remains in the background, but Europe — and Italy in particular — continues to offer the highest competitive level. Milan’s interest reflects a belief that McKennie’s prime years are far from over.

A Premier League striker could become Christian Pulisic’s teammate at AC Milan.

AC Milan are enjoying a strong season in Serie A, battling Inter Milan for the top spot in the standings. However, club executives and head coach Massimiliano Allegri know that adding more talent will be necessary in the long term to further elevate stars such as Christian Pulisic. In that context, a Premier League striker has emerged as a key target.

“Jean Philippe Mateta has agreed personal terms with AC Milan, his favorite option,” Fabrizio Romano reported Friday in a post published on his official X account. Under this scenario, the only missing piece is an agreement between the clubs to complete the transfer.

“AC Milan have advanced in talks with Crystal Palace for the summer but trying to complete the agreement now; if CPFC give their green light,” Romano wrote. “Talks underway.”

However, while the initial expectation pointed to a possible move ahead of next season, developments could accelerate. “Mateta has informed Crystal Palace board about his decision to join AC Milan. He wants AC Milan now, immediately even if initial agreement was for June 2026,” the report added.

As a result, the English side made an important decision regarding the striker: leaving him out of the squad for Sunday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest. The move is aimed at protecting the French forward amid a potential transfer agreement to Italy.

Mateta could be a strong complement to Pulisic

Jean-Philippe Mateta has spent five years in England. He arrived in early 2021 from Germany’s Mainz 05 and has since delivered solid performances, totaling 56 goals in 186 matches across all competitions. This season has been particularly strong, with 10 goals and two assists in 34 appearances.

Those performances have caught Milan’s attention, as the club has long been searching for players capable of raising the overall level of the squad. The signings of Christopher Nkunku earlier in the season and, more recently, Niclas Fullkrug have not produced the expected results so far.

Looking ahead, the Italian giants hope to further strengthen their attack by building around Christian Pulisic, who has delivered the best performances of his professional career this season despite ongoing fitness issues. If they can also add a top-level striker such as Mateta, their chances of competing seriously both domestically and in continental competitions would be significantly boosted.

Mexico national team striker German Berterame has been announced as the newest addition to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.

After several weeks of negotiations, Inter Miami reached an agreement to sign a key attacking player ahead of the 2026 season. Mexico national team striker German Berterame was officially announced as Lionel Messi’s new teammate.

The roster rebuild following the 2025 Major League Soccer title focused primarily on adding defensive-minded players, including goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, defenders Facundo Mura, Micael, and Sergio Reguilon, and central midfielder David Ayala.

However, the Herons were also in need of a new attacking option, especially given the increasingly limited role of Luis Suarez, who finished last season coming off the bench, with young Mateo Silvetti taking over the center forward position.

“Inter Miami CF announced today that it has signed Mexican international forward Germán Berterame from Liga MX powerhouse CF Monterrey,” says the statement published Friday on the club’s official website. “Berterame will occupy a Designated Player slot and will remain under contract through the 2028-29 Major League Soccer (MLS) season with an extension option for 2029-30.”

Mexican forward Germán Berterame joins as a Designated Player, bringing a proven goal-scoring pedigree ⚽ Welcome to Miami!

Details: https://t.co/CBJatdte0z pic.twitter.com/IlIoaBuAbc

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) January 30, 2026

German Berterame’s background

German Berterame joins Inter Miami following a successful spell in Liga MX. He arrived in Mexico in 2019 after playing for San Lorenzo and Patronato in Argentina. His first club in Mexico was Atletico San Luis, where he scored 31 goals in 93 appearances. That form caught the attention of Monterrey, who paid more than $8 million to sign him in 2022.

With Monterrey, Berterame produced the best performances of his professional career, recording 66 goals and 15 assists in 148 matches. That run put him on the radar of the Mexico national team, and in 2024, after concluding that he would not have opportunities with Argentina, he completed the naturalization process to become eligible to represent El Tri.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just four months away, German Berterame has a strong chance of earning a spot on Mexico’s 26-man roster, having been included in each of the last four call-ups by head coach Javier Aguirre.

German Berterame’s first words at Inter Miami

Moments after announcing Berterame’s signing, Inter Miami shared a video in which the Mexico national team forward delivered a message to the club’s fans. “Hello everyone. I want to tell you that I’m very happy to be joining the Inter Miami family,” German said at the start of the video. “I’m coming in with a lot of excitement, anticipation, and pride to wear this jersey and bring many moments of joy to all the fans. I hope to see you soon. Sending you a big hug.”

Joao Felix assisted Cristiano Ronaldo for Al Nassr’s opener against Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League.

Al Nassr are looking to regain ground in the Saudi Pro League standings after a poor run that left them behind Al Hilal. On Friday against Al Kholood, Cristiano Ronaldo scored for his team following a setup from Joao Felix.

After a historic start to the season with 10 consecutive wins, Al Nassr struggled to maintain that momentum, allowing Al Hilal to overtake them at the top of the table and build a lead of up to seven points. However, in recent weeks, Jorge Jesus’ team has secured three straight victories, putting them back in contention.

In that context, Friday’s clash against Al Kholood was crucial for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates. Taking advantage of two consecutive draws by Al Hilal, they could move within just three points of the top with a win.

Despite facing one of the weakest teams in the Saudi Pro League—Al Kholood sit 14th with only five wins in 18 matches—Al Nassr had a tough task. In fact, during the first half, they couldn’t break through and went into the break goalless.

That was Cristiano’s 18th goal in all competitions for Al Nassr this season!pic.twitter.com/tC79bNdrxX

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) January 30, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 961st career goal

Al Nassr’s struggles to find an advantage against Al Kholood disappeared after the break. Just two minutes into the second half, they built a brilliant team move involving Kingsley Coman, Angelo Gabriel, Joao Felix, and Sadio Mane.

Finally, after receiving a perfect pass from Angelo, Felix found himself inside the box, one-on-one with goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani. The young Portuguese forward chose not to shoot and instead set up Cristiano Ronaldo, who was positioned just outside the box.

CR7 had all the time and space he needed to open the scoring with a gentle right-footed touch that left the defenders trying to cover the goal with no chance to react. With this strike, Al Nassr’s forward reached his 17th goal of the current Saudi Pro League season and the 961st of his professional career.

What’s next for Al Nassr?

After extending their lead with goals from Mohamed Simakan and Kingsley Coman, Al Nassr secured a valuable 3-0 victory over Al Kholood, bringing them very close to reclaiming the top spot in the Saudi Pro League standings. They are now just three points behind Al Hilal, with 16 games still remaining.

Jorge Jesus’ team will next face Al Riyadh on Monday, February 2, followed by a crucial matchup against the reigning champions, Al Ittihad, four days later. After that, they will begin their campaign in the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League Two against FK Arkadag.

Amid speculation surrounding his future at Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski’s wife has shared details on the matter.

Robert Lewandowski’s future has drawn the attention of soccer fans over the past few months. Against a backdrop of widespread rumors and speculation about what lies ahead for the Barcelona forward, his wife spoke publicly on the subject and made an important revelation.

“We’ll see how the season goes in Barcelona this year because, let’s say, it will probably be my husband’s last one here,” Anna Lewandowska said during an interview with Plejada. “So we squeeze it like a lemon. We enjoy every moment, every match with the fans, because we know that one day we won’t have any of this.”

Those remarks are revealing when it comes to the player’s current stance. Lewandowski is under contract with Barcelona until June 30 of this year, and it remains unclear whether the club will offer him an extension.

Under this scenario, Robert is in a position to negotiate freely with any other club in the world. FIFA regulations allow players who are in the final six months of their contracts to do so. That means that if Lewandowski were to receive a convincing offer, he could sign immediately and commit to joining a new team for the start of the 2026–27 season.

Possible destinations for Lewandowski

Uncertainty surrounding Robert Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona has fueled rumors about interest from clubs in different countries ahead of next season. Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League have emerged as potential destinations, especially considering the number of stars who have followed the paths of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in recent years.

However, when asked about what comes next, Anna Lewandowska did not offer a definitive answer. “What’s next? We don’t know, but that’s the path of a great athlete, especially a great sportsman, and we’re prepared for it,” she said in the same interview.

Lewandowski still has major challenges ahead

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future beyond June, Lewandowski still faces major challenges that will require his full focus. At the club level, he will aim to repeat—or even surpass—the success Barcelona achieved last season. The team has already won the Spanish Super Cup and will look to do the same in La Liga and the Copa del Rey, while the main objective remains the UEFA Champions League.

At the international level, the challenge is even greater. Poland failed to secure direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will therefore have to compete in the European playoffs. In March, they will face Albania, and if they advance, they will play for a World Cup spot against either Ukraine or Sweden.

FIFA’s latest financial data has quietly confirmed what many in world soccer have sensed for months: the center of gravity is shifting again.

FIFA’s latest financial data has quietly confirmed what many in world soccer have sensed for months: the center of gravity is shifting again. With Cristiano Ronaldo already embedded in the project and elite names such as Ousmane Dembele, Vinicius Junior, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski circling the conversation, the governing body has revealed which Asian clubs dominated global spending in 2025 — just ahead of what is being described as another Saudi revolution.

At first glance, the figures speak of scale rather than direction. But underneath them lies a deeper strategy, one that suggests Saudi soccer is preparing to evolve once more — not merely by spending, but by redefining who it spends on and why. According to FIFA’s Global Transfer Report 2025, international soccer experienced an unprecedented surge in activity. A total of 24,558 international transfers were completed in men’s soccer alone, representing a 7% increase from 2024 and the highest annual figure ever recorded.

Across men’s, women’s, and amateur soccer combined, FIFA registered 86,158 international transfers, another all-time high. Total spending on transfer fees climbed to $13.08 billion, shattering the previous record. England remained the world’s dominant spender, with clubs collectively investing $3.82 billion, while Brazil recorded the highest volume of player movement. Yet the most telling story was not in Europe or South America — it was in Asia.

Saudi spending never truly slowed

Although the Saudi Pro League’s explosive 2023 wave initially appeared to cool, 2025 proved that the slowdown was strategic rather than financial. Clubs continued to commit vast sums while reshaping their recruitment philosophy.

Al-Hilal entered a new era under Simone Inzaghi, spending heavily on Darwin Nunez ($80 million) and Theo Hernandez ($27 million). Al-Qadsiah surpassed $110 million in outlay, headlined by Mateo Retegui’s $74 million move. Government-backed NEOM crossed the $115 million mark, combining emerging talent with experienced stars such as Alexandre Lacazette.

Meanwhile, Al-Nassr reinforced its status as a global magnet by signing Joao Felix for $54 million and Kingsley Coman for $38 million, while Cristiano Ronaldo extended his contract, remaining the league’s defining figure both commercially and competitively. Midway through its report, FIFA confirmed the highest-spending Asian clubs for 2025, though it did not disclose exact totals.

Rank	Club	Country
1.	Al-Nassr	Saudi Arabia
2.	Al-Hilal	Saudi Arabia
3.	Al-Ahli	Saudi Arabia
4.	Al-Qadsiah	Saudi Arabia
5.	NEOM	Saudi Arabia
6.	Al-Ittihad	Saudi Arabia
7.	Al-Duhail	Qatar
8.	Al-Sadd	Qatar
9.	Al-Wasl	United Arab Emirates
10.	Al-Jazira	United Arab Emirates

The ranking places Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr at the very top, confirming the club as the financial benchmark not just in Saudi Arabia, but across Asia.

New target profile emerges

What makes this moment different is not simply the money — it is the shift in ambition. Saudi decision-makers are no longer focused solely on iconic veterans. Instead, the attention has turned toward elite players still operating at the very peak of European soccer.

According to Sky Sports, Saudi officials are “laying the groundwork” for a future move for Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, whose PSG contract situation remains unresolved. Similarly, The Telegraph and journalist Ben Jacobs report that Mohamed Salah and Vinicius Junior remain priority targets, while Robert Lewandowski has emerged as part of a broader shortlist aimed at redefining the league’s global image.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta praised a young Premier League player with a subtle comparison to Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest talents in the history of soccer, particularly of the 21st century. That status has turned him into a reference point and a benchmark for many young players who draw attention early on because of their performances. Now, Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta alluded to that idea while speaking about a rising Premier League star.

“We are delighted to announce that Max Dowman has signed a pre-contract agreement with the club that will lead to him signing professional terms when he turns 17 in December,” Arsenal announced Friday through their official social media accounts.

Asked about Dowman during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Premier League clash against Leeds United, Arteta made his high regard for the English midfielder clear, comparing him to other young talents he has seen during his years as both a player and a coach.

“Certainly one of the best. What he’s done with us at the age of 15, me personally, I haven’t seen it before,” the Spanish coach began, before adding a clarification: “Only with a guy who used to play in Barcelona, but maybe not even that.” That final remark was an obvious reference to Lionel Messi, even though Arteta did not explicitly name him.

We are delighted to announce that Max Dowman has signed a pre-contract agreement with the club that will lead to him signing professional terms when he turns 17 in December.

Read more below 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 30, 2026

“He certainly has not only that. He has a certain charisma as well and personality that he doesn’t get overwhelmed, whether it’s by the situation, or the stadium or the opposition, and that’s a huge quality to have,” Arteta added about Dowman.

Arteta knows Messi well

Mikel Arteta’s words about Max Dowman and the comparison to Lionel Messi carry special weight. The current Arsenal coach enjoyed a long professional playing career and witnessed firsthand the rise of the Argentine forward from his early days to the pinnacle of world soccer.

Arteta began his career at Barcelona, playing for the club’s reserve team in Spain’s third division between 1999 and 2000. That period coincided with Messi’s arrival at the club from Newell’s Old Boys, making it likely that Arteta had the chance to see Leo display his talent on the field even at that early stage.

Years later, the two crossed paths on multiple occasions. After leaving Barcelona, Arteta played for Paris Saint-Germain and Rangers before returning to Spain to join Real Sociedad for the 2004–05 season, Messi’s first as a professional. Over time, they met again several times, most notably in UEFA Champions League matchups between Barcelona and Arsenal.

Who is Max Dowman?

Although many players in recent years have been compared to Lionel Messi—and none have reached that level so far—Max Dowman has undoubtedly shown qualities that help explain those parallels with the Argentine star.

The English midfielder holds the record as the second-youngest player to debut in the Premier League. He did so on August 23, 2025, coming on as a substitute against Leeds United at 15 years and 235 days old. He is also the youngest starter in Arsenal history and the youngest player ever to appear in a UEFA Champions League match.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name looms over the buildup, even before a ball is kicked, as Al-Kholood prepares to welcome Al-Nassr to Buraidah.

As the Saudi Pro League season reaches a defining stretch, few fixtures arrive without tension, but this one carries a question that dominates every conversation. Cristiano Ronaldo’s name looms over the buildup, even before a ball is kicked, as Al-Kholood prepares to welcome Al-Nassr to Buraidah. The clash is framed by contrasting ambitions, and form lines pulling in opposite directions.

For Al-Nassr, momentum has returned after a turbulent spell. For Al-Kholood, survival instincts are beginning to sharpen. And for the league itself, nights like these often reveal more than just three points.

The hosts enter Matchday 19 under pressure. A 2-1 home defeat to Al-Ettifaq last time out extended a worrying trend: four losses in the last five league matches. That run has left the club hovering just above the relegation zone, 13th in the table with 15 points, and painfully aware that the margin for error is shrinking.

The numbers tell a stark story. Al-Kholood has managed only five wins all season, losing the other 12 matches, with 25 goals scored and 32 conceded. Home form, in particular, has been fragile, with just two victories from nine matches at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium. Under Des Buckingham, the structure is there, but lapses in concentration and a lack of cutting edge have repeatedly undone promising spells.

Across the pitch stands a very different force. Jorge Jesus’ players arrive in Buraidah firmly entrenched in the title conversation. With 40 points from 17 matches, the club sits third in the table, trailing leaders Al-Hilal by six points and second-placed Al-Ahli by three. Anything short of victory risks surrendering ground in a race that allows little mercy.

Will Ronaldo play?

Midway through the buildup, the focus inevitably narrows to one name. Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo will play. The Portuguese forward has been at the center of growing speculation after missing multiple training sessions in recent weeks due to physical fatigue.

According to Arriyadhiyah, Ronaldo did not take part in Al-Nassr’s main group last weekend, completing recovery work away from the pitch as a precaution. “The absence was attributed to physical fatigue, with the coaching staff opting for caution rather than risk,” the report stated. This was not the first time concerns surfaced. Two weeks earlier, Ronaldo skipped full training before facing Damac, yet still played the full match — and scored the decisive goal.

That pattern appears to be repeating. Despite the managed workload, the Portuguese veteran will lead the line once again, underlining both his importance and the careful balancing act Al-Nassr must maintain as fixtures pile up.

Al-Kholood vs. Al-Nassr: Confirmed lineups

Al-Kholood has the luxury of near-full availability. No major injury concerns leave Buckingham free to select from a settled core, with Ramiro Enrique — scorer of 10 league goals — once again carrying much of the attacking burden.

Al-Nassr, meanwhile, welcomes mixed news of its own. Sadio Mane returned to the starting XI against Al-Taawoun, completing 88 minutes, and will feature again. On the other hand, Marcelo Brozovic will miss the game due to injury.

Al-Kholood confirmed XI: Cozzani; Ramzi, Gyomber, Pinas, Camara; Al-Aliwa, N’Doram, Hattam; Buckley, Sawaan; Enrique.

Al-Nassr confirmed XI: Bento; Al-Nasser, Simakan, Martinez, Al-Ghannam; Coman, Angelo, Al-Hassan, Mane; Joao Felix, Ronaldo.

CR7’s Al Nassr head to Al Kholood for Matchday 19 of the 2025/26 Saudi Pro League. Here’s how to watch all the action, including kickoff times and U.S. TV and streaming broadcast information.

Match Overview

Al Nassr head into a must-win showdown knowing every result matters as the title chase tightens with Al Hilal setting a relentless pace at the summit. Sitting in second place with 40 points and trailing the leaders by five, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team can’t afford to slip against an Al Kholood side desperate for points of its own.

The hosts hover in 13th place, just four points above the drop zone, and while they enter as clear outsiders, their fight for survival raises the stakes in a contest that could reshape the standings at both the top and bottom. With pressure, urgency, and plenty on the line, this is one matchup fans won’t want to miss.

Ahead of a key Saudi Pro League game, Cristiano Ronaldo will be facing a setback with an Al Nassr star sidelined after suffering an injury.

Cristiano Ronaldo is pushing Al Nassr back toward the top of the Saudi Pro League after an uneven start to 2026, with the team stringing together three straight wins. However, ahead of Friday’s match against Al Kholood, Ronaldo will be dealing with a squad setback after one of Al Nassr’s key players picked up an injury.

Absences have already proven costly for Al Nassr, who opened the season with a historic run of 10 consecutive league wins before injuries and international call-ups took their toll. Mohamed Simakan’s injury and Sadio Mané’s departure for the 2025 AFCON disrupted the team’s momentum, and now another setback has emerged.

According to Ariyadhiah, Marcelo Brozović will miss Matchday 19 against Al Kholood. The midfielder felt pain in his thigh early in Wednesday’s training session, prompting the club to decide on rest rather than risk further injury.

The Saudi outlet added that Brozović underwent medical tests on Thursday to assess his condition and potential return to training. After evaluation, the medical staff ruled him out for the match, with his recovery timeline yet to be determined.

As the team’s holding midfielder, Brozović has been a stabilizing presence since joining Al Nassr in 2023. In the 2025-26 campaign, he has recorded one goal and four assists in 23 appearances, making his absence a significant blow as Ronaldo looks to close the gap at the top of the SPL standings.

Al Nassr face another midfield challenge

With Simakan sidelined earlier in the season, Al Nassr’s defensive solidity suffered, conceding as many goals during his absence as they had previously allowed across the campaign. Although the French center back has returned, replacing Brozović now presents a fresh test for head coach Jorge Jesus.

The Croatian has already missed two league matches this season, one through injury and another due to yellow-card accumulation. In those games, a 2-0 road win over Al Hazem and a 3-2 victory against Al Shabab on January 17, Jesus opted for a double-pivot setup featuring Angelo and Abdullah Al Khaibari, both of whom performed reliably.

However, Al Khaibari is suspended for the clash with Al Kholood after accumulating yellow cards. That leaves Ali Al Hassan as the likely replacement, despite having logged just 440 minutes across 22 appearances this season, a risky call at a moment when Al Nassr can ill afford to drop points.

With the expectations set to reach his first World Cup final in 2026, Lamine Yamal dismissed Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when picking the soccer legend he'd like to face.

Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of the brightest young stars not only at FC Barcelona, but also with the Spain national team, which currently sits atop the FIFA rankings and is among the early favorites for the 2026 World Cup. Looking ahead to a hypothetical final, the 18-year-old surprisingly set aside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in favor of another soccer legend as his preferred opponent.

Despite frequent comparisons to Messi due to his La Masia background and profile as a left-footed right winger, Yamal has repeatedly stated that Neymar was his childhood idol. During his vacation in June 2025, the Barcelona star even traveled to Brazil, where he had the opportunity to meet the Brazilian forward in person.

In an interview with TNT Sports Brasil following Barcelona’s Champions League match against Copenhagen on Wednesday, Yamal reflected on his trip to South America: “I liked many things and I’ll definitely be back. I spoke with Neymar to see when we can go again, but overall I enjoyed it a lot.“

The Barça winger also revealed that he spoke with Neymar via FaceTime just days before the Copenhagen match, during which the two made an eye-catching promise. “I told Neymar that if we both made it to the World Cup final, we would go on vacation together,” Yamal admitted.

Although Neymar has yet to return to the Brazil national team following his ACL injury in 2023, both players remain confident not only about his comeback, but also about reaching the tournament’s biggest stage. “So hopefully it’s Spain against Brazil,” concluded Yamal, who celebrated his 2-1 goal against Copenhagen with a tribute to his idol.

With Spain drawn into Group H (alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay) and Brazil placed in Group C (with Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland), the two sides would be positioned on opposite ends of the knockout bracket if they top their groups. That setup would leave the door open for a Spain–Brazil final in the United States, and for Yamal and Neymar to potentially fulfill their promise.

Three finals against the three legends?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have defined the 21st century and are widely considered among the greatest players in the sport’s history, while Neymar has long been viewed as the closest contemporary to their level. At just 18, Yamal could find himself facing all three legends in finals, even as they approach the twilight of their careers.

Yamal has already appeared in a final against Ronaldo, losing the 2025 UEFA Nations League final to Portugal on penalties after a 2–2 draw through extra time. On March 27, the Barcelona prodigy is also set to face Messi for the first time in the Finalissima against Argentina. That leaves a hypothetical World Cup final against Neymar’s Brazil as the final piece, one that would see Yamal face all three icons in championship matches early in his career.

A player who recently left the Premier League to play in La Liga admitted that he still dreams of returning to Lionel Messi’s Argentina ahead of the World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is drawing closer, and no player wants to miss out. In that context, a teammate of Lionel Messi at the 2022 World Cup revealed his desire to return to Argentina’s national team, trusting that his recent move from the Premier League to La Liga could help him achieve that goal.

On Thursday, Valencia officially announced the signing of Guido Rodriguez, a 31-year-old midfielder who had played for West Ham United in the Premier League since 2024 and, after losing prominence this season, agreed to return to La Liga following his successful spell at Real Betis.

Rodriguez not only lost ground at the English club in recent months, but he also stopped receiving call-ups from Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni. Asked during his introductory press conference whether the goal of returning to the national team before the World Cup was on his mind when he agreed to the move to Valencia, he was honest.

“If things go well for me and for the club, it will give me the chance to come back,” Guido Rodriguez said, according to TyC Sports. “Being part of the national team is very difficult, but in the short term my focus is on Valencia’s important matches.”

🆕 2️⃣ & 4️⃣🦇 @Guido_Rodriguez 🤝 @unainunez30 pic.twitter.com/RkA8FAKgbg

— Valencia CF (@valenciacf_en) January 29, 2026

The midfielder then immediately addressed the challenges awaiting him at this new stage of his professional career. “They are not going through their best moment, but that does not stop it from being an attractive club for players. It depends on moments and seasons. We can change the moment and improve Valencia,” he said.

Valencia are struggling right now

Guido Rodriguez’s words about Valencia’s current situation are accurate. The Spanish club has spent several years away from domestic and international prominence, unlike the early 2000s, and is now in a particularly difficult position.

Valencia currently sit 14th in the La Liga standings, but their situation is far from comfortable. They hold only a two-point advantage over Mallorca, who are in the relegation zone. With less than half the season remaining, the risk is significant and there is little margin for error.

Can Guido Rodriguez return to Argentina before the World Cup?

Guido Rodriguez was involved in all of Argentina’s major successes in recent years. He played in six of the seven matches at the 2021 Copa America, where Argentina ended a 28-year title drought, and he later started in the Finalissima against Italy in the summer of 2022.

At the 2022 World Cup, Rodriguez arrived as a regular rotation piece, competing with Leandro Paredes for the defensive midfield role. In fact, he started the second group-stage match against Mexico. However, as the tournament progressed, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister delivered standout performances, claimed the available midfield spots, and things were never the same for Guido.

Although Lionel Scaloni continued to call up Rodriguez in the following years, he used him sparingly, including one appearance at the 2024 Copa America. After September 2024, the midfielder stopped appearing in call-ups altogether and never regained his place. Now, with his move to Valencia, Guido has four months to rediscover his best form and prove that he can compete for a spot on the 26-player roster for the World Cup in North America.

Amid an inconsistent season, several Real Madrid players have lost their place in the lineup. As a result, Vinícius Jr. could be set to lose one of his key teammates, with Liverpool reportedly turning their attention to a young midfielder ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Real Madrid have been unable to find stability in their sporting project, leading to the dismissal of Xabi Alonso, who had joined the team a few months earlier. Far from solving the team’s problems, they continue to struggle, leading to some players losing their place in the rotation. In light of this, Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on a star midfielder and friend of Vinicius Jr. for the 2026-27 season.

According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool are considering making an offer in the region of €80–100 million to sign Eduardo Camavinga. Despite having been one of the key players in Real Madrid’s rotation, the Frenchman has lost prominence this season, slipping into a secondary role under Álvaro Arbeloa. Nevertheless, Los Blancos are not willing to transfer the 23-year-old due to his versatility, complicating his potential arrival to Liverpool.

With Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler firmly established in midfield, Eduardo Camavinga has become a regular part of the rotation. Despite accumulating 1,181 minutes this season, the Frenchman typically enters matches in the closing minutes, signaling that he no longer holds star status under Arbeloa, much like under Xabi Alonso. Nevertheless, his ability to cover multiple positions makes him a crucial asset for Real Madrid, even if rarely as a starter.

Camavinga’s potential arrival at Liverpool would likely push Alexis Mac Allister to the bench, as he would establish himself as a key midfield partner alongside Ryan Gravenberch. With this, the Reds could field two players with imposing physical presence and strong offensive contribution in midfield. In addition, they would also gain quality in rotation, as the 27-year-old Argentine could cover virtually any midfield position.

Camavinga’s potential exit could reshape Real Madrid’s midfield

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have faced significant issues in midfield, as the departures of Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos left a major void. Although there was hope that Jude Bellingham would become the team’s main organizer, the Englishman has not managed to shine in that role. As a result, a potential departure of Eduardo Camavinga could be key to reshaping the midfield.

While Camavinga’s exit would be difficult for the team’s rotation, his transfer would be worth a massive fee. With that, Los Blancos could move for a player of the caliber of Vitinha or Enzo Fernández, aiming for the consistency the club has long been seeking. In addition, the Frenchman could finally gain prominence in midfield in other team, where he showcased his best version and established himself as one of the most promising and complete players in the world.

When picking the USA player to impress at the 2026 World Cup, a USMNT legend snubbed Christian Pulisic from his list.

Christian Pulisic wrote the best start to a season of his career, raising expectations around the U.S. men’s national team with the 2026 World Cup set to be played on North American soil. However, with less than six months until the tournament begins, a USMNT legend looked past the Milan star when naming the American player he believes will impress the most.

One of the trailblazers for American players reaching top European leagues, particularly the Premier League, was Brad Friedel. The former goalkeeper spent more than a decade with the national team, earning 82 caps, a total that interestingly puts him alongside Pulisic on the all-time list. Still, Friedel did not include the forward among his players to watch.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Friedel was asked which USMNT player would stand out at the World Cup, and the former goalkeeper offered a direct answer: “My favorite player with the US, and it has been since I was the under-19 national team coach, is Weston McKennie. He didn’t have his best time at Leeds — I think it’s well-documented why — but as far as talent, this kid is amazing.

“He has it all. If he is focused and prepared and fit, he’s excellent,” Friedel added. Beyond the Juventus midfielder, he also highlighted other key contributors in the squad. “I really like him and Tyler Adams playing together in the middle of midfield. Chris Richards has also really improved over the last year and when I say improved, he’s become a leader,” the former Tottenham Hotspur said.

“He’s become a really good player with Crystal Palace. I think we have one of the best left-backs in the entire tournament, Antonee Robinson. I think he’s outstanding. We do have a really competitive team,” Friedel continued, notably leaving Pulisic out of his list of potential breakout performers.

The former keeper concluded by pointing to the collective identity built under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, suggesting the team no longer revolves around one star: “We have some good players. You need those X-factor players at the end of it. We’re more of a team rather than individuals that are going to set the world alight.“

Could Pulisic return to form for the 2026 World Cup?

Pulisic’s 2025-26 season has been a mix of highs and lows, both with AC Milan and the national team. At the international level, the winger missed the CONCACAF Gold Cup before returning against South Korea, Japan, Ecuador and Australia, the match in which he suffered a muscle injury that sidelined him for the November international window.

At club level, Pulisic emerged as one of Milan’s key players early in the season, enjoying the best start of his career and even sharing the top spot in the Serie A scoring race with Lautaro Martínez, despite playing significantly fewer minutes. However, fast-forward to 2026 and the American has struggled, failing to record a single goal contribution in Milan’s first six league matches of the year.

Injuries have once again interrupted Pulisic’s momentum, halting what had been a promising run of form. With just five months remaining before the World Cup kicks off, the focus now is on regaining full fitness and rhythm, as the USMNT will hope their most recognizable star can return to peak level and lead on the sport’s biggest stage.

A teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr could be on his way to La Liga to join Real Sociedad.

With the January transfer window nearing its close, every minute counts for European clubs looking to complete the moves they need for the second half of the season. Real Sociedad are no exception in La Liga, and they have set their sights on a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.

“Real Sociedad are closing in on deal to sign Brazilian winger Wesley from Al Nassr. Deal at final stages between clubs and player side,” Fabrizio Romano said Thursday on his X account, citing a report from Spanish journalist Mikel Recalde.

The Brazilian winger is just 20 years old and joined Al Nassr in mid-2024 from Corinthians in a deal valued at nearly $20 million. While his first year in the Saudi Pro League was solid, the current season has been far more challenging for the young player.

The signings of Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman, combined with stars already on the roster such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, have significantly reduced Wesley’s chances of earning a spot in the starting lineup. In fact, under head coach Jorge Jesus, he has started just 12 of Al Nassr’s 27 matches this season.

“The deal will be completed as a loan with an option to buy. If things go well and he adapts to Real Sociedad, the plan is for the club to pay the fee in the summer and keep him,” Recalde’s report added regarding the Spanish side’s next steps.

Wesley’s departure could benefit all parties

The limited opportunities Wesley has had this season make it logical for him to view a potential move favorably. The fact that the opportunity would come in La Liga, one of the most competitive leagues in the world, only adds to its appeal.

For their part, Real Sociedad are searching for an attacking midfielder out of necessity. According to reports, the club initially planned to sign a center forward, but the unexpected injury to Takefusa Kubo last week, which will sideline him for around two months, forced a change of plans and prompted them to look for a player with similar characteristics to the Japanese star.

Finally, Al Nassr could also benefit from Wesley’s departure midway through the season. While they would lose a useful rotation player, the club could receive a significant fee in the medium term and reinvest it in a higher-profile signing. In addition, his exit would free up a foreign player slot on the club’s roster.

AC Milan appear to be looking to strengthen their defense, targeting several star players to bolster Christian Pulisic's roster. However, the Rossoneri are reportedly prioritizing the renewal of one of the team's defensive pillars in the face of growing interest from the Premier League.

Despite remaining one of the top teams in Serie A, the Rossoneri are already focusing on strengthening Christian Pulisic‘s squad for the next season. With several problems with the depth roster, they are supposedly target several defensive profiles to enhance the team’s performance to compete in the UEFA Champions League. However, AC Milan reportedly prioritize renewing a defensive pillar amid growing interest from the Premier League.

After arriving in 2024 from RB Salzburg, Strahinja Pavlović has managed to establish himself as one of the most important players in Massimiliano Allegri’s defense. With his commanding ability to play out from the back, aerial dominance, and defensive solidity, he has attracted the attention of several Premier League clubs. As a result, the Rossoneri have decided to prioritize the Serbian’s renewal by extending his contract until 2031, according to Tuttosport.

Although the Rossoneri are already targeting two defenders from the Premier League, Pavlović’s renewal would not be secondary but fully complementary. With the Serbian being a regular starter, Massimiliano Allegri is looking for a player capable of providing rotation for Matteo Gabbia or even Fikayo Tomori, as he currently only has Koni De Winter at his disposal, given that David Odogu does not appear to be in the coach’s plans.

Pavlović has already been attracting interest from Premier League clubs since last season. While Tuttosport did not reveal which teams are pursuing a move for the Serbian in the summer of 2026, Crystal Palace came close to signing him during the January 2025 winter window and could attempt another move. For this reason, the Rossoneri are pushing for his renewal, though they are not in a rush, as his current contract runs until 2028 and includes a one-year option.

Not only Pavlović: AC Milan reportedly close in on another star renewal

AC Milan have significant work ahead, as they must not only pursue marquee signings but also secure key contract renewals. While the extensions of Strahinja Pavlović, Christian Pulisic, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek appear to be on track, the Rossoneri are also targeting the renewal of another player who is crucial to Massimiliano Allegri’s sporting project and whose contract expires in 2027.

According to Nicolò Schira, via X (formerly Twitter), the Rossoneri are very close to securing a contract extension for Fikayo Tomori. Despite receiving approaches from two Premier League clubs, the Englishman decided to reject any potential exit, prioritizing his continuity at the club. As a result, AC Milan have chosen to offer him a long-term contract, putting an end to any rumors surrounding a possible transfer.

While Massimiliano Allegri is set to retain his two defensive stars, the Rossoneri must still prioritize the marquee signing of a defender, as the current rotation is quite limited for UEFA Champions League demands. With these moves, AC Milan aim to regain the level of competitiveness they have long sought, prioritizing defensive stability as the foundation for building a winning project.

Ousmane Dembele lifted the most prestigious individual prize in world soccer, Lamine Yamal stood proudly beside him on the podium, and Raphinha watched from further down the list.

Ousmane Dembele lifted the most prestigious individual prize in world soccer, Lamine Yamal stood proudly beside him on the podium, and Raphinha watched from further down the list — officially fifth in the 2025 Ballon d’Or standings. On paper, the ranking looked settled. In reality, the debate was only beginning.

Months after the ceremony, the Barcelona star has made it clear that the wound never fully healed. Raphinha, who delivered one of the most productive attacking seasons in Europe, believes the story of the Ballon d’Or was written with selective memory. And now, speaking openly, he has reignited the conversation — one that subtly sidelines both Dembele and Yamal in the process.

The numbers alone placed the Brazilian star among the elite. He finished the season with 34 goals and 22 assists, becoming one of the most decisive players across Europe’s top competitions. Only Mohamed Salah recorded more direct goal involvements in all competitions. With the club, Raphinha was instrumental in a domestic treble, lifting the league title, the national cup, and the super cup. In continental competition, he emerged as joint top scorer, breaking records along the way and delivering consistently against elite opposition.

Yet when the Ballon d’Or shortlist narrowed, his name was conspicuously absent from the top three. Instead, the award went to Dembele after a Champions League-driven campaign, with Yamal finishing second and Vitinha third. Salah placed fourth. Raphinha finished fifth — a result that surprised many analysts and infuriated the player himself.

In an interview with SofaScore, Raphinha did not hide his frustration. “I was upset. I expected more. I expected to be in the top 3 at least. I knew winning would be difficult because the Champions League weighs a lot. So I was upset with the position I ended in,” he admitted. Despite acknowledging factors outside his control, the Brazilian made it clear that the ranking felt unjust. “I understand it involves many things I cannot control. Many things that are complicated to keep highlighting. What I can say is that I’m very satisfied with the season I had — and no individual award will erase what I did last season.”

Why Raphinha thinks he should have won 2025 Ballon d’Or

When asked directly who should have won the Ballon d’Or, Raphinha did not hesitate — and this is where the mystery finally dissolves. “Myself, personally, I would place myself first. I would place myself in first place!” he said. Then came the 10-word explanation that has since echoed across soccer circles: “An individual award cannot be based on a single competition.”

With that sentence, Raphinha laid bare his core argument. For him, the Ballon d’Or has drifted away from evaluating an entire season and become overly dependent on Champions League success. “Based on that, I think I deserved to be first for what I delivered during the season, for the titles I won, for the numbers I achieved, and for everything I contributed on the pitch,” he explained. “I think I deserved to win.”

Where Dembele and Yamal fit into Raphinha’s logic

Interestingly, Raphinha was careful not to diminish the seasons enjoyed by his rivals — even as he effectively excluded them from his personal podium. “As it is an award that is practically based on a single competition, Dembele deserved to win, especially since he also had a spectacular season. Lamine also had a spectacular season,” he said.

But when reshaping the rankings based on his own criteria, the Brazilian made a striking choice. Raphinha placed himself first, followed by Lamine Yamal and Pedri, with Dembele pushed down to fourth. That ordering quietly underscored his belief that season-long consistency, not isolated peaks, should define soccer’s biggest individual prize.

Marcus Rashford, introduced late off the bench, did something neither Lamine Yamal nor Robert Lewandowski had managed to do in Europe for the club.

For years, Lionel Messi’s shadow loomed large over Barcelona, stretching far beyond goals and trophies. On a Champions League night filled with noise, tension, and celebration, that shadow finally began to lift. Marcus Rashford, introduced late off the bench, did something neither Lamine Yamal nor Robert Lewandowski had managed to do in Europe for the club — and in doing so, he etched his name into a piece of history that had quietly haunted Barcelona since 2019.

The English forward’s contribution was not just decisive, but symbolic. While Yamal dazzled with creativity and Lewandowski delivered his usual clinical finish, it was Rashford who delivered the moment that truly felt like closure — a sign that Barcelona may finally be stepping out of Messi’s long-lasting aura.

Barca’s final Champions League league phase clash against Copenhagen unfolded like a slow-burning drama. After a nervy first half, the team surged forward with authority in the second period. Goals from Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha flipped the game on its head before Rashford was introduced with under 20 minutes remaining.

In the 85th minute, the England international delivered the finishing touch to a 4-1 victory, sealing qualification to the round of 16 and sparking scenes of celebration at Camp Nou. But this goal was not just another entry on the scoresheet. It was something far bigger.

The historic feat finally revealed

And here is the historic feat that Rashford helped achieve: Barcelona finally scored a direct free-kick in the Champions League for the first time after Lionel Messi’s exit in 2021. The last time it happened was May 1, 2019, when the Argentine superstar dismantled Liverpool with a stunning set-piece in the semi-final. More than five years and over 2,000 days passed without another Barcelona player replicating that feat — until Rashford stepped up.

The Englishman bent the ball over the wall and toward the near post, wrong-footing goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski, who had anticipated a far-corner effort. The execution was flawless, the significance was immense, and thus Spanish media were unanimous in their assessment. Marca, Diario AS, Mundo Deportivo, and Sport all highlighted the symbolic nature of the strike.

“Rashford managed to break the curse of direct free-kick goals since Messi left,” Diario AS wrote, calling it “what seemed impossible at Barcelona.” What’s more, Mundo Deportivo described the goal as “spectacular,” while noting that Lamine Yamal’s brilliance still carried much of the team’s attacking weight. Yet it was the Manchester United loanee who delivered the historical punctuation mark.

The curse that wouldn’t go away

For years, the Blaugrana supporters had grown accustomed to seeing free-kicks fly wide, clip the wall, or sail harmlessly over the bar. Since Messi’s departure, direct free-kicks had become a recurring frustration — a reminder of something lost.

Before Rashford’s strike, Barcelona had reportedly taken over 50 direct free-kicks in the Champions League without scoring once. Across all competitions, the numbers were scarcely better. The club had managed just three free-kick goals in total, the most recent coming from Ferran Torres in September 2023. In Europe, however, the drought was absolute.

Spain’s national team has reportedly made a key decision ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With just over four months remaining until the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the national teams that have already secured qualification are making their final preparations. Among them are Spain, who have reportedly made an important decision regarding their stay in the United States.

“Spain’s national team has already defined its base of operations for the upcoming World Cup,” Diario AS reported on Thursday. “The team coached by Luis de la Fuente will be based in the city of Chattanooga, with Embassy Suites by Hilton Chattanooga Downtown serving as its headquarters, while Baylor School’s facilities will be used as the training center.”

This decision is particularly important given the matchups Spain will face during the tournament. The European champions will make their debut in the FIFA tournament on June 15 against Cape Verde at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Their second group-stage match will also be played there, on June 21 against Saudi Arabia.

The city of Chattanooga is just 118 miles from Atlanta, providing a major logistical advantage for Spain, as the team will only need to make a short trip from its base to the stadium for its first two World Cup matches.

To close out the group stage, however, Spain will need to travel a significantly longer distance. Their third match will be played on June 26 against Uruguay in Guadalajara, Mexico, a trip of roughly 1,800 miles that will require several hours of air travel.

Spain’s path in the World Cup

Given the tournament format, their Group H opponents, and the overall quality of the squad, Spain are unlikely to have major issues advancing in the 2026 World Cup. In fact, they are the favorites to finish first in the group, although Uruguay represent a potential threat.

Still, Luis de la Fuente’s team remains cautious and is not taking for granted a first-place finish in Group H. As a result, Spain have not yet defined their base of operations beyond the group stage.

If Spain finish first, they will face the runner-up from Group J (which includes Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan) in the round of 32. That match is scheduled for July 2 in Los Angeles. If they finish second, they would instead face the group winner (presumably Argentina) in Miami on July 3. If they finish third, their potential destinations become far more varied, including New Jersey, Seattle, Mexico, and Atlanta.

These multiple scenarios make it reasonable for Spain to avoid making a decision at this stage regarding their base during the knockout rounds of the World Cup, opting instead to wait and adapt as the tournament unfolds.

Despite not being an undisputed starter, Marcus Rashford has managed to carve out a place for himself at Barcelona, shining in front of goal. As a result, the Englishman has matched David Beckham on an exclusive Champions League list, showcasing his impressive impact.

Marcus Rashford has managed to turn criticism into applause since his arrival at Barcelona. Despite the Englishman often being Raphinha’s backup, he has established himself as one of Hansi Flick’s most important players. With his pace, reading of the game, and goal-scoring ability, he has earned significant playing time. In fact, the 28-year-old has drawn level with David Beckham on an exclusive goal-scoring list in the UEFA Champions League.

After coming off the bench in Barcelona’s recent match against Copenhagen, Rashford scored a stunning goal. This achievement ended a seven-year drought since the club’s last free-kick goal in the Champions League, previously scored by Lionel Messi against Liverpool. Additionally, the 28-year-old star matched David Beckham’s record as the only English players to score free-kick goals for two different teams in the history of the competition.

Even though Hansi Flick has players such as Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha at his disposal, Marcus Rashford has emerged—alongside Fermín López—as Barcelona’s joint top scorer in the Champions League. In doing so, the Englishman shows that his physical issues and off-the-pitch problems are a thing of the past, establishing himself as a key player in the Blaugrana’s pursuit of their objectives.

Rashford may be delivering solid performances at Barcelona, but he still has a lot to prove. Unlike his brilliant start at Manchester United, the Englishman has not managed to establish himself as a regular starter under Hansi Flick, with Raphinha ahead of him in the pecking order. Nevertheless, the 28-year-old star is edging closer to his best version, showing himself to be a leader both on and off the pitch—something especially valuable for a squad full of young talent.

Marcus Rashford opens up on his tough adaptation to Barcelona

Marcus Rashford’s move to Barcelona marks the greatest challenge of his career. Having developed and played his entire life in England, he honed an explosive style of play that excels in open spaces. However, the 28-year-old star has adjusted to LaLiga’s slower tempo and take on various new responsibilities. Amid this transition, he has opened up about his adaptation process with the Blaugranas.

“I think those of us who play up front have to press the ball as best we can because the problem arises when the opponent has time to think about the pass and see the movements of our defense… It took me a while to get used to it: you can’t let them have time on the ball, you have to press constantly, and it’s different from what I did before. But this is our style of defending, and when it works, it’s really good,” Rashford said in the post-game interview.

Within Hansi Flick’s system, Rashford assumes multiple attacking responsibilities, showcasing his exceptional pace while significantly contributing to chance creation. Furthermore, the Englishman has greatly enhanced his defensive commitment and adapted to the team’s high-pressure tactics, establishing himself as a crucial player in Barcelona’s rotation.

The CAF has published sanctions stemming from the AFCON final, with Achraf Hakimi, Sadio Mané’s coach Pape Thiaw, and several players suspended, prompting questions about their status ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final delivered drama and controversy, ending with several Senegal players attempting to leave the pitch after a disputed penalty decision. With disciplinary sanctions now confirmed, Morocco and PSG star Achraf Hakimi, along with Sadio Mane‘s coach Pape Thiaw, have been suspended, raising questions about whether the fallout could affect their participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Eleven days after Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the AFCON final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued its ruling. Among the key decisions was the rejection of Morocco’s appeal to overturn the result, officially confirming Senegal as champions, though not without consequences for both sides.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was handed a five-match suspension and fined $100,000, having been deemed responsible for inciting his players to walk off the field following the referee’s late penalty call. CAF described his actions as “unsportsmanlike and damaging to the image of football.” On the player side, Mane‘s teammates, Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye and Crystal Palace’s Ismaïla Sarr were each suspended for two matches.

On the Moroccan side, captain Achraf Hakimi received a two-match suspension, with one of those matches still under review, also for “unsportsmanlike behavior.” PSV midfielder Ismael Saibari was hit with a three-game ban and a $100,000 fine, according to the CAF statement.

Both national federations were also penalized. Senegal’s federation was fined $615,000 due to the conduct of players, fans, and repeated disciplinary infractions throughout the final.

Morocco’s federation, meanwhile, was fined $315,000. CAF cited several violations, including ball boys withholding balls from Senegal players, the use of laser pointers from the stands, and an unauthorized intrusion into the VAR area.

What about the World Cup?

Following the AFCON final, both Senegal and Morocco are scheduled to play four more matches, two during the March international window and two additional fixtures ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, the new suspensions sparked concern over whether either team could be significantly weakened heading into the tournament in North America.

According to CAF’s official statement, all player suspensions and Thiaw’s ban apply exclusively to continental competitions and will not carry over to the World Cup. As a result, Hakimi, Senegal’s squad, and Thiaw himself will remain eligible to participate in the opening matches of the global tournament.

Lionel Scaloni and Diego Simeone, the coaches of Argentina and Atletico Madrid, reportedly held a meeting where they discussed Julian Alvarez and other players.

This year is particularly intense in soccer, as always happens during a World Cup season. Right now, while clubs compete in domestic and continental tournaments, national teams are making their final preparations for the FIFA tournament to be held this summer in North America. In that context, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni met with Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone, reportedly discussing Julian Alvarez and other players.

“Argentina’s coach visited El Cerro del Espino today, meeting with Simeone, Gustavo Lopez, and Nelson Vivas after Atletico’s training session,” Marca reported on Thursday, referring to other members of the Spanish club’s staff who accompanied the coach.

“With the Finalissima in March approaching, the coaches took the opportunity to share information about their players… The match between Spain and Argentina during the next La Liga break marked this morning’s meeting,” the report added.

This makes sense considering that Atletico Madrid’s roster includes six Argentine players, all of whom have been called up by Scaloni in recent times. They are Juan Musso, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, Giuliano Simeone, Nicolas Gonzalez, and Julian Alvarez. “Scaloni and ‘El Cholo’ share concerns and needs. That’s why both wanted to agree on the best way to take care of their players,” Marca noted.

The situation of Atletico Madrid’s Argentine players

Of the six Argentine players currently at Atletico Madrid, five appear almost certain to be included in the 26-player World Cup roster. Only Juan Musso remains in uncertainty: the goalkeeper last played in 2021 and has not been called up since October 2024.

Nahuel Molina was part of the squad that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is considered Argentina’s starting right-back, having taken the spot from Gonzalo Montiel. Julian Alvarez also played in the last World Cup and remains a guaranteed starter, despite competition from Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez.

Thiago Almada is another 2022 World Cup champion, but at that time he did not hold the same importance for Argentina that he does now. The talented attacking midfielder currently has a strong chance of starting in the FIFA tournament.

Finally, the situations of Gonzalez and Simeone differ. Gonzalez was a key player for Argentina before the 2022 World Cup, but an injury kept him out of the roster in the days leading up to the tournament. In contrast, Giuliano Simeone broke into the national team last year, and his performances have met Scaloni’s expectations. Both players now appear almost certain to be part of the 26-player roster.

Argentina’s next challenge

Before the 2026 World Cup, Argentina will face a major challenge. They will aim to win their fifth consecutive title when they face Spain in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the reigning champions of Europe and South America.

After winning the same trophy in 2022 by defeating Italy, Lionel Messi and his teammates now face a tough test: they will play Spain on March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, the same venue where they beat France and were crowned World Cup champions.

Álvaro Arbeloa has delivered solid performances for Real Madrid, but his future with the team remains uncertain. As they plan for the next season, Los Blancos reportedly have their sights set on a Premier League coach to fill the head coaching position.

Álvaro Arbeloa managed to deliver an impressive performance as Real Madrid coach, despite the recent defeat to Benfica in the UEFA Champions League. Bringing out the best in Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr, he has established himself as the clear favorite to remain at the helm of the team next season. However, the Spaniard’s future is not entirely clear, as Los Blancos are reportedly targeting a Premier League coach for the 2026-27 season.

According to Ramón Álvarez de Mon, Real Madrid have Unai Emery of Aston Villa on their list of priorities as a potential head coach for the 2026–27 season, should they decide not to continue with Álvaro Arbeloa. With a contract running until 2029, the Spaniard’s departure from the English club would be far from straightforward, especially given that he is the cornerstone of their sporting project and has enjoyed remarkable success since his arrival in 2022.

Despite the interest in Emery, Real Madrid have not finalized their decision regarding Arbeloa as the club is reportedly giving him until the end of the season to decide his future. However, if he concludes the season without securing any titles, it could mean the end of Alvaro’s tenure in the team. Additionally, Fabrizio Romano reports that the list of potential head coaches not only includes Unai Emery but also features Jurgen Klopp and other candidates.

Emery’s struggles with elite teams may raise red flags at Real Madrid

Over the past decade, Unai Emery has established himself as one of the best Spanish managers. After excelling with teams such as Sevilla and Villarreal, he has shown an imposing ability to lead sporting projects, as he has also done at Aston Villa. However, the Spaniard had unsuccessful spells at Arsenal and PSG, ending up being dismissed, which raises serious doubts about his ability to succeed at Real Madrid.

Although Emery won multiple titles at Paris Saint-Germain, he failed to win the Champions League and was involved in several controversies regarding his management of the dressing room. Far from being an isolated experience, Unai also had another unsuccessful spell at Arsenal, being dismissed after a season and a half due to locker room struggles and a lack of solid results, raising doubts about his potential impact at Real Madrid.

Real Madrid’s real issue may not be the coach, but the roster

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled to find true balance within the squad. While most reports point toward changes in the coaching spot, the real problem may lie in the roster itself. Following the departures of Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, the Spanish side chose not to sign a controlling, organizing midfielder, instead betting on Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler to fill that role. However, neither player has been able to consistently organize the team.

With this in mind, Los Blancos could genuinely need a midfield signing, targeting a profile capable of bringing balance to the team. As a result, some players could be sold, as there are several similar profiles in the squad, and their departures would not only reduce the wage bill but also free up midfield spots, opening the door for different profiles that could reshape the team’s reality.

With Manchester City securing a spot in the top 8 in the UEFA Champions League table, head coach Pep Guardiola will be thanking Jose Mourinho after Benfica's win over Real Madrid.

José Mourinho emerged as one of the key figures of Matchday 8 in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, as Benfica stunned Real Madrid with a dramatic 4-2 stoppage-time victory. With Manchester City benefiting from the result to secure a top-eight finish, head coach Pep Guardiola admitted he would be thanking the Portuguese manager.

Entering the night in third place and led by tournament top scorer Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid traveled to Estádio da Luz as favorites against Benfica. The match began accordingly, with Mbappé opening the scoring, but the hosts responded with a spirited comeback.

Manchester City’s 2-0 win over Galatasaray lifted them into eighth place, the final spot for direct qualification to the Round of 16, but they needed Real Madrid to drop points to hold position. As the score sat at 3-2, Guardiola and his players were safe, but Benfica’s late push for a fourth goal kept City’s fate hanging in the balance.

Speaking in his postmatch press conference, Guardiola admitted confusion when Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin abandoned his goal to join the attack: “We were all there so we didn’t know Benfica needed a goal to qualify so when the goalkeeper goes up, we say, ‘why you go?’ because Madrid can equalise and we are out.”

Because of goal difference, Benfica needed a two-goal victory, a requirement Trubin fulfilled by scoring a last-second header to seal qualification to the Champions League playoffs. “But it was a good strategy from José to score the fourth goal, right?” Guardiola added with a smile.

Guardiola will now be thanking Mourinho

Long defined by their fierce rivalry and contrasting philosophies, Guardiola and Mourinho have shared one of soccer’s most iconic managerial duels. On this occasion, however, one directly helped the other extend his Champions League run.

Asked whether he would send Mourinho a thank-you message, Guardiola answered without hesitation. “Yeah, of course,” he said, underscoring the mutual respect that still exists between two of the most influential managers of the 21st century.

There is growing discussion around a possible emotional decision that could reshape not just a dressing room, but the identity of a team built on balance, control, and leadership.

Christian Pulisic is enjoying a defining stretch of his career, thriving alongside elite experience and leadership, while Luka Modric continues to defy time with performances that shape matches and seasons. Yet behind the stability of the present, uncertainty quietly looms. There is growing discussion around a possible emotional decision that could reshape not just a dressing room, but the identity of a team built on balance, control, and leadership.

What seems clear is that this is not about urgency, nor decline. Instead, it is about timing, legacy, and what comes after one final global stage. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Luka Modric has become one of the undisputed leaders of the club, assuming responsibility almost immediately after arriving. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Croatian midfielder remains central to everything Milan does, even when his influence is subtle rather than spectacular.

On the pitch, the numbers underline his importance. He has played the third-most minutes in the league (1,754) and ranks among the most-used players across all competitions. Out of 26 matches, he has only failed to complete a full ninety minutes twice.

Observers consistently note that there is a clear difference between the team with Modric and the team without him. The 40-year-old’s positional intelligence, timing, and work rate without the ball are essential to maintaining balance—qualities that directly benefit attacking players like Christian Pulisic, who thrives when structure and tempo are controlled behind him.

Modric’s contract with the Rossoneri expires shortly after the 2026 World Cup, with an option for an additional year that rests largely in his own hands. While the club technically holds a pathway to extend the deal, the final decision will belong almost entirely to the player.

What lies ahead for Modric?

The Croatian veteran is believed to want to evaluate multiple factors before deciding—his physical condition, the competitiveness of the project, family considerations, and the outcome of the World Cup itself. This mirrors the path taken by other veterans who prioritized personal clarity over rushed commitments.

According to Pietro Balzano Prota of MilanVibes, Dinamo Zagreb has begun exploratory discussions to understand whether a return could be possible once Modric’s current deal expires. Importantly, these contacts are not negotiations. They are described as a “survey”—a way to gauge interest rather than force a decision. The emotional pull is obvious: a return home to finish a legendary career after one final World Cup carries symbolism that few players ever experience.

“Dinamo Zagreb has begun to test the waters about a return,” the report explains, noting that the experienced midfielder would only consider such a move if he feels ready to slow down.

What it would mean for Pulisic

For Christian Pulisic, Modric’s potential departure would represent a significant shift. The Croatian’s presence provides leadership, calm, and tactical clarity, allowing attacking players to focus on expression rather than damage control. Losing that influence would force the club to rethink its structure and recruitment strategy.

The management is already preparing contingencies. Names like Leon Goretzka and Mateo Kovacic have been internally discussed, while other midfielders could also move on next season. The idea is simple: be ready for every scenario.

Kylian Mbappe, one of Real Madrid's most decisive voices on the pitch, did not hide after the final whistle.

The night in Lisbon was meant to be a test of maturity, authority, and control. Instead, it became a mirror reflecting uncomfortable truths. Kylian Mbappe, one of soccer’s most decisive voices on the pitch, did not hide after the final whistle. As Real Madrid left the Estadio da Luz bruised by a dramatic European defeat, the French forward placed the club at the center of a storm—one defined not by tactics or talent, but by something far more troubling. The club, he suggested, failed a basic test that elite teams are expected to pass without hesitation.

In a match filled with chaos, red cards, and a goalkeeper’s stoppage-time header, the defeat was shocking enough. What followed, however, was even more striking: a brutally honest assessment from the team’s biggest star.

Real Madrid traveled to Portugal knowing that a top-eight finish in the Champions League league phase was within reach. Even a draw would have been enough to avoid the play-offs. Instead, the club collapsed spectacularly, losing 4-2 in a match that exposed defensive fragility, mental lapses, and a worrying lack of urgency.

Despite being second-best for long stretches, the club took an undeserved lead when Mbappe headed home from close range, scoring with his first meaningful touch. Benfica responded with conviction. Andreas Schjelderup equalized after a sweeping counter-attack, before Vangelis Pavlidis converted a penalty just before half-time. Early in the second half, the home outfit struck again on the break, opening a two-goal cushion.

The French star briefly reignited hope by pulling one back, but discipline unraveled late on. Raul Asencio and Rodrygo were both sent off, leaving the club with nine men. Then came the moment that sealed the humiliation: Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a 98th-minute header, a goal that not only secured the win but pushed Los Blancos out of the top eight.

Body language that raised alarms

Beyond the scoreline, images from stoppage time caused outrage. With the club desperately defending a final free kick, Mbappe and Vinicius were seen standing outside the box, hands on their hips, while teammates fought inside the area. Critics were quick to pounce, questioning commitment at the most critical moment.

While some argued the pair were positioned for a counter-attack, the optics were damaging. Against a Jose Mourinho side throwing everything forward, the contrast in hunger was impossible to ignore.

What did Mbappe say?

After the match, Mbappe did not deflect blame. Instead, he delivered a scathing verdict on the club’s performance and mentality. “We aren’t being consistent in our play. We have to solve that. We can’t do it one day and then not another. A team of champions doesn’t do that,” he told reporters.

At first, his criticism appeared broad—focused on inconsistency and collective responsibility. But as he continued, the true heart of his frustration emerged. Midway through his post-match analysis, the 27-year-old stripped the problem down to its core, unveiling the fiery eight-word attack that has since echoed across Europe: “It’s about having more desire than your opponent.”

With that sentence, he dismissed excuses about tactics, quality, or preparation. According to him, the club failed because it simply wanted the victory less than Benfica. “It isn’t about quality, and it isn’t about tactics,” he added. “You could see that everything was on the line for Benfica, and you couldn’t see that for us, and that’s a problem.”

With Michael Carrick's arrival, Manchester United have surprised everyone with their impressive performance, racking up two key victories against Manchester City and Arsenal. Despite this, Premier League legend Roy Keane cast doubt on the coach's long-term future at the Red Devils.

Following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, Manchester United decided to appoint Michael Carrick as interim coach until the end of the season. Although his arrival did not convince many fans, the Red Devils have impressed with their performance, beating Manchester City and Arsenal, and getting everyone excited about his permanence in the team. However, Premier League legend Roy Keane has expressed serious doubts about the coach’s permanence in the team.

“I think that he’s got the job, and then if he (Michael Carrick) gets it in the summer then you go; ‘Listen, good luck to him’, but as a caretaker manager, it’s a different animal to being manager of United trying to win league titles over the next two, three, four, five years, whatever it might be. I think you can get a better manager than Carrick, absolutely. But I think he’s doing a good job, perfect timing for him,” Roy Keane said, via Stick To Football.

While Keane’s words have surprised everyone, they merely reflect Manchester United’s mistakes from the past. After José Mourinho was sacked in 2018, Ole Gunnar Solskjær was appointed head coach following a successful spell as interim manager. However, the Norwegian did not enjoy the same level of success and was eventually dismissed in 2021. For this reason, the Irish legend acknowledges that appointing Carrick as head coach could be just as risky.

After failures season after season, the Red Devils would be willing to target a manager with a strong track record of success, according to several English outlets. With this in mind, they would look to move away from ‘promising’ coaches such as Ruben Amorim or Erik ten Hag, and instead focus on candidates like Thomas Tuchel or Oliver Glasner, who have already won trophies and have proven they are capable of leading a sporting project like Manchester United’s.

Not appointing Michael Carrick may prove costly for Manchester United

In his short time at Manchester United, Michael Carrick has shown an imposing ability to lead the club’s project. Not only has he delivered two key victories, but he has also managed to impose a clear style of play and elevate the performances of players such as Kobbie Mainoo and Patrick Dorgu. Despite his evident impact, the Red Devils appear to be leaning toward searching for a different manager for the following season.

Considering the influence Carrick has already had at United, not supporting him as the club’s permanent head coach could be a misstep. Unlike the Solskjær case, he has managed to influence the team beyond results, laying the foundations for a long-term project. Moreover, his status as a club legend gives him significant authority in the dressing room, having been a key figure during the Sir Alex Ferguson era, and he could be the right figure to properly redirect the team.

Manchester United may struggle to land a world-class coach in 2026-27

Manchester United have remained closely focused on securing a world-class head coach. In this context, Thomas Tuchel and Luis Enrique have emerged as the club’s supposed top priorities to strengthen the team. However, neither appears entirely certain to join the Red Devils, as both are currently involved in relatively stable projects. With that in mind, United have been forced to explore other profiles that do not fully convince.

With the difficulty of landing Tuchel or Luis Enrique, Roberto De Zerbi has reportedly gained ground as a candidate to take over as the English club’s new head coach. Even so, the Italian is not a proven serial winner either, with Fabrice Hawkins even reporting that he could be dismissed from Olympique Marseille. For that reason, turning to Michael Carrick would not be far-fetched, as there is not a significant difference between him and the Italian.

Despite rumors of a possible move to Real Madrid, one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammates on the Portugal national team is reportedly prioritizing the Saudi Pro League.

This time of year is usually intense when it comes to rumors, not only because of the January transfer window, but also because clubs begin planning their squads for the upcoming season. In that context, a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo on the Portugal national team appears to have chosen the Saudi Pro League despite speculation linking him to Real Madrid.

“Negotiations at final stages now between Ruben Neves and Al Hilal over new long term deal,” reporter Fabrizio Romano said Thursday via his X account. “Agreement advancing over three year contract despite interest from Europe.”

The interest mentioned in the report is tied to speculation over the past few weeks about a potential return for the Portuguese midfielder to one of Europe’s top leagues. Real Madrid were identified as a possible destination starting with the 2026-27 season.

Considering that Neves is under contract with Al Hilal through the end of the current campaign, and could then leave as a free agent for any club he chooses, he has become an attractive option for several major teams. Manchester United have also been mentioned in speculation surrounding a potential move for Ruben.

Al Hilal satisfied with Ruben Neves

Ruben Neves was part of the first major wave of players who left Europe to join the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023, following the path of Cristiano Ronaldo, who had arrived just six months earlier.

After six seasons in England with Wolverhampton, the midfielder made the move to Al Hilal in exchange for a lucrative salary and has since stood out in Saudi Arabia. He has recorded 119 appearances, 18 goals, and four titles, including the 2023-24 league championship. Those performances have been strong enough for the club to offer him a contract extension.

Neves has his place nearly secured with Portugal

Unlike what happened with many other stars, the move from Europe to the Saudi Pro League did not affect Ruben Neves’ status with his national team. He has continued to receive regular call-ups to the Portugal national team since the summer of 2023, and head coach Roberto Martinez appears to view him as an important part of the squad.

While it is true that Neves has not always been a first-choice option in the lineup, competing for minutes with high-quality players such as Vitinha and Bruno Fernandes, he started four of Portugal’s six matches in World Cup qualifiers. That suggests he has a strong chance of joining Cristiano Ronaldo at the FIFA tournament this summer in North America.

The mere idea of Cristiano Ronaldo lining up against Karim Benzema once again has been enough to electrify fans across the region. Yet as the calendar edges closer to a potential 2026 showdown, that blockbuster meeting is suddenly under threat.

The Saudi Pro League has spent the last two years selling narratives as much as soccer, and few have been more powerful than the revival of an old Real Madrid teammate duo turned into a rivalry. The mere idea of Cristiano Ronaldo lining up against Karim Benzema once again has been enough to electrify fans across the region. Yet as the calendar edges closer to a potential 2026 showdown, that blockbuster meeting is suddenly under threat.

Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema appear in the same sentence once more, but this time the story is not about goals, legacy, or Ballon d’Or debates. Instead, uncertainty hangs over the Frenchman’s immediate future, casting doubt over whether soccer’s most decorated modern-era rivalry will even reach the pitch.

When Benzema arrived in Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2023, following Ronaldo’s groundbreaking move months earlier, the league gained something priceless: narrative continuity. Two icons of European dominance, now leading rival clubs, offered instant global relevance. The Portuguese became the face of ambition, while Benzema was positioned as the calm architect of success.

That vision materialized quickly. The 2018 Ballon d’Or star captained Al-Ittihad to a historic league and cup double last season, cementing his importance not just as a scorer, but as a leader. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continued to redefine longevity, dragging Al-Nassr into title contention through sheer force of will. A direct clash between the two in 2026 was meant to be another chapter in that saga. Instead, it now risks becoming a “what if.”

Benzema refuses to play for Al-Ittihad

The first sign that something was wrong came quietly. According to multiple reports, Benzema has asked to be left out of the matchday squad for Al-Ittihad’s upcoming league fixture against Al-Fateh, a move that immediately raises eyebrows. This is not a decision imposed by the coaching staff, nor a reaction to injury.

Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed the development, noting that the call came directly from the player. “Karim Benzema has asked to be excluded from the Al-Ittihad squad… Decision taken by Benzema. Not a call by [head coach] Sergio Conceicao.” With a high-profile match against Al-Nassr looming just days later, concern quickly turned into alarm. The league’s most marketable rivalry is suddenly in doubt.

The bizarre reason revealed

Reports soon clarified that the 38-year-old’s likely absence is rooted in deep dissatisfaction with a proposed contract renewal. His current deal is set to expire in June, and despite promises of an extension since last summer, a formal offer arrived only days before the transfer window deadline. French outlets Foot Mercato and L’Equipe suggest that the proposal was delivered by the league’s Director of Football, Michael Emenalo, and was viewed by those close to Benzema as deeply disrespectful. The terms were said to be so unfavorable that they amounted to “playing for free,” excluding image rights.

This perception of disrespect prompted Benzema to take a drastic step: withdrawing himself from the squad. Crucially, Al-Ittihad’s own executives appear powerless, as final authority rests with the league itself—effectively making the Saudi Pro League the player’s true employer.

What makes the situation more striking is how quickly the narrative has flipped. Just weeks earlier, Benzema had spoken positively about his future in Saudi Arabia. “I am part of the project, I’m in the right place,” he said in an interview with L’Equipe, signaling his willingness to commit long-term.

That optimism has evaporated. The frustration now threatens not only Benzema’s immediate availability, but also the league’s broader image. Losing the reigning captain and cornerstone of a title-winning team is a significant sporting blow—especially ahead of a potential showdown with Ronaldo’s club.

With Talisca speaking out publicly, what once looked like a routine transfer has now evolved into a controversy that threatens to reshape the narrative around Ronaldo’s time at the club.

The Saudi Pro League rarely lacks drama, but this time Cristiano Ronaldo finds himself at the center of a storm that has little to do with goals, trophies, or records. Instead, the turbulence comes from the past. A former teammate has reignited debate about Al-Nassr’s internal dynamics, delivering a cryptic yet explosive message that has sent shockwaves through the club’s fanbase. With Talisca speaking out publicly, what once looked like a routine transfer has now evolved into a controversy that threatens to reshape the narrative around Ronaldo’s time at the club.

At first glance, it appears to be another dispute between a player and his former employer. But the undertones suggest something deeper: questions of respect, power, and identity inside a club that has transformed rapidly since the Portuguese’s arrival.

The controversy resurfaced after comments made by Al-Nassr president Abdullah Al-Majed, who openly criticized Talisca’s influence during his time at the club. Speaking in a recent interview, Al-Majed claimed the Brazilian forward had been a divisive figure. “Talisca is one of the players who caused a division within Al-Nassr, between those who see him as a key and important element, and those who feel his departure was not comfortable for the fans. He is a great player, but his problem was that he was often substituted,” he said.

Those words reopened old wounds. According to Arriyadiyah, attempts to move Talisca on from the club dated back to the summer of 2023. Negotiations were held, replacement targets were identified, and exit strategies were quietly explored. Yet time and again, the Brazilian refused to leave, believing his role at the club was far from finished. That standoff continued until January 2025, when the Brazilian striker finally departed, ending his chapter with the Knights of Najd.

Decorated record that refuses to be erased

Statistically, Talisca’s legacy at Al-Nassr is difficult to dismiss. He scored 77 goals and delivered 17 assists in 104 appearances, winning the FIFA Arab Cup and becoming the fifth-highest goalscorer in the club’s history. Those numbers place him firmly among the most productive players ever to wear the shirt. For many supporters, that record clashes sharply with the club’s portrayal of his exit. And it is precisely this contradiction that prompted Talisca to respond—publicly and emotionally.

Initially, the 31-year-old’s reaction hinted at frustration without revealing its sharpest edge. He spoke about structural change and shifting priorities, suggesting that soccer decisions had taken a back seat to commercial ones.

What did Talisca say about Al-Nassr?

“The new structure at Al-Nassr became more about business, and I honestly no longer fit into that,” he took to Instagram to fight back. “The numbers are clear, and my connection with the club is part of its history. I was one of the first to arrive in this new phase and went through the entire transition into the club’s new era. Even so, they did not respect my history with the club or with the fans – they simply acted as if nothing was happening.”

“For that reason, I consider it a lack of respect toward Al-Nassr supporters to make such statements without telling the truth.” Then came the moment that turned simmering tension into outright confrontation. In a follow-up comment, the veteran unveiled the scathing attack that has since dominated headlines: “They pushed me out because I was scoring too many goals and was ‘getting in the way’.

The particular 11-word jab was explosive. According to Talisca, his performances had not protected him; instead, they had made him expendable. He went further, claiming that he was effectively forced into requesting his own exit—an allegation that challenges the club’s official stance. ”They even forced me to ask to leave,” the current Fenerbahce star added.

Although Luka Modric remains one of AC Milan's best players, his future with the team is unclear as his contract has not been renewed. In light of this, the Rossoneri are already eyeing a Manchester City's midfielder ahead the 2026-27 season.

Luka Modrić has established himself as an undisputed starter under Massimiliano Allegri. Despite being 40 years old, the Croatian remains the team’s sixth-most-used player in terms of minutes, playing a key role in AC Milan’s structure. However, his continuity is not fully defined despite interest from the Rossoneri. As a result, the Italian side are turning their attention to a Manchester City midfielder ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri have reportedly been interested in securing Modric’s continuity, as his contract expires at the end of the campaign. Although the veteran hold a unilateral option to extend the Croatian’s deal until 2027, he has yet to make a definitive decision, despite being a key figure for Massimiliano Allegri. In light of this, AC Milan have reportedly turned their attention to a Manchester City midfielder.

According to reports from MilanVibes, later reposted by Calciomercatto, Mateo Kovačić has emerged as an appealing name for AC Milan, with Modric himself having even reached out to him. However, the Rossoneri have only made preliminary inquiries with his entourage, as there are serious concerns about his physical condition, given that he has made just two appearances this season due to ankle and Achilles issues.

Kovačić’s potential arrival would not be entirely incompatible with Modrić’s continuity. Under Zlatko Dalić with Croatia, both midfielders often play together, providing the national team with strong balance. For that reason, the 31-year-old would be a key reinforcement for AC Milan, as he would not only contribute immediately but could also take over from Luka when he eventually decides to leave the club.

Allegri is reportedly chasing reinforcements in AC Milan’s midfield

Since his arrival at AC Milan, Massimiliano Allegri has made it clear that the midfield is one of the most important pillars of his tactical planning. For this reason, the coach not only expects it to provide solidity to the team, but also to contribute offensively. However, the midfielders have failed to stand out in this area, leaving a clear scoring void. As a result, the Italian coach is reportedly looking to make changes in midfield ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Both Leon Goretzka and Mateo Kovačić have emerged as the Rossoneri’s alleged priority targets. The German could arrive as a free agent from Bayern Munich, but reported interest from Atlético Madrid could complicate the move, according to BILD. The Croatian’s case is different, as the Italian side reportedly face no competition for his signing, although doubts remain over his physical condition. Still, his fit within the team is seen as ideal.

While Allegri aims to bring in at least one new midfielder, AC Milan may first need to part ways with Youssouf Fofana, whom they are reportedly open to selling. If the Frenchman’s departure does not materialize, the Rossoneri could face difficulties in accommodating a new signing, not only from a financial standpoint but also due to the limited available midfield spots.

With Tomas Avilés now at CF Montreal and Sergio Reguilon injured, Lionel Messi could see a squad boost in defense as Inter Miami reportedly target an Argentine prospect.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are preparing for the 2026 season with ambitions of competing for every available trophy following their 2025 MLS Cup triumph. With Tomás Avilés departing the club and Sergio Reguilón sidelined by injury, the Herons have reportedly turned to an Argentine prospect to reinforce their defense.

During an aggressive winter transfer window that saw Inter Miami announce nine signings, Avilés became one of two Argentines to leave the club, alongside goalkeeper Óscar Ustari, joining CF Montréal on a one-year loan with a purchase option. His exit followed the arrival of Brazilian defender Micael, but Reguilón’s injury has since created a renewed need along the back line.

According to Argentine outlet DSports Radio, Inter Miami are targeting Tobías Ramírez of Argentinos Juniors. The 19-year-old center back featured at the U-20 World Cup, where Argentina reached the final, captaining the side in its opener, and has established himself as a regular at both club and international level.

With rosters confirmed for the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami listed six defenders for the competition: Gonzalo Luján, Sergio Reguilón, Tomás Avilés, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcón, and Ian Fray. However, with Reguilón sidelined by a Grade 2 knee sprain and Avilés already on loan in Montréal, a gap has opened in the defensive unit.

While Noah Allen and Gonzalo Luján are expected to cover left back, the vacancy shifts toward the center of defense. That role is likely to be filled initially by Micael, with Ramírez viewed as both a long-term investment and a player capable of contributing immediately on Messi’s squad.

Despite turning 19 last November, Ramírez has already made 43 appearances for Argentinos Juniors and 20 for Argentina’s U-20 national team. If the deal is completed, he would occupy the U22 Initiative slot vacated by Avilés, joining David Ayala and Mateo Silvetti in that category.

Inter Miami could face a tough challenge to secure Ramírez

Argentinos Juniors are widely regarded as one of Argentina’s top youth-producing clubs, consistently exporting talent both domestically and abroad. Negotiations, however, are often difficult, as Inter Miami previously paid around $8 million to sign Federico Redondo, and Ramírez is unlikely to come cheaply.

Transfer insider César Luis Merlo recently reported that Argentinos Juniors rejected a $3 million offer from Deportivo Alavés that included a 50 percent sell-on clause. That decision suggests Inter Miami would need to significantly improve their bid to complete a deal.

While Inter Miami have added several players on free transfers, including Dayne St. Clair, Facundo Mura, Luis Barraza, Micael, and Reguilón, they have also spent heavily in recent windows. With fees paid for Ayala ($2M), Tadeo Allende ($5M), and a reported €15 million obligation for Rodrigo De Paul following his loan, the club will need to balance ambition with financial caution.

Apart from N'golo Kante, Karim Benzema could also lose another star teammate at Al Ittihad amid the interest of a team playing in the Champions League.

Karim Benzema is witnessing a potential exodus at Al Ittihad, even as his own contract situation remains unresolved this season. With N’Golo Kanté reportedly close to an exit from Saudi Arabia, the former Ballon d’Or winner could soon see another star teammate leave during the winter transfer window to join a Champions League side.

With Benzema, Fabinho, and Kanté all out of contract at the end of the season, Al Ittihad are facing a major squad overhaul, highlighted by Kanté working toward a move away with Fenerbahce interested in his signature. Now, another European club is pushing to sign a French standout from the Saudi side.

Inter Milan are actively pursuing the signing of Moussa Diaby from Al Ittihad. First reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport and later confirmed by Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta, the Italian club are targeting the winger during the current winter window.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of Inter’s Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, Marotta addressed the negotiations and potential hurdles: “I can confirm that we’re in talks to sign Moussa Diaby from Al Ittihad. But as of today, it’s a remote possibility because he’s an important player for his club, and it would be a very expensive operation.“

According to the Italian outlet, Inter have already reached an agreement with Diaby on personal terms, leaving Al Ittihad to decide on the proposed offer of a loan through the end of the season with a €35 million purchase option. If the move goes through, Brazilian winger Luiz Henrique could depart the Nerazzurri amid interest from Bournemouth and Besiktas.

Since joining from Aston Villa in 2024 for €65 million, Diaby has made 52 appearances for Al Ittihad, scoring eight goals and providing 27 assists. After winning both the Saudi Pro League and Saudi Cup last season, he has posted three goals and 11 assists in 24 matches this campaign, and despite being a regular under head coach Sérgio Conceição, a return to Europe now appears possible.

Benzema also facing uncertainty at Al Ittihad

Currently sixth in the Saudi Pro League with 30 points from 17 matches, Al Ittihad have struggled to replicate last season’s success, with several stars increasingly focused on their futures. Benzema is no exception, as his time in Saudi Arabia appears to be nearing its end.

According to Ben Jacobs, Benzema asked to be left out of Thursday’s match against Al Fateh, a decision made unilaterally and not by Conceição. The move stems from unproductive contract extension talks with Al Ittihad, with the striker’s deal set to expire at the end of the season and reports linking him to a potential return to Europe.

With Lamine Yamal’s FC Barcelona in and Kylian Mbappé’s Real Madrid out, the teams qualified for the Round of 16 of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League have been determined.

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League league phase concluded Wednesday, determining which teams advanced, entered the playoff round, or were eliminated. Among the headline outcomes, Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona secured direct qualification, while Kylian Mbappé’s Real Madrid were forced into the playoffs.

In the second edition of the revamped Champions League format, eight teams qualified directly for the Round of 16, while those finishing between ninth and 24th will contest the playoff round and the remaining 12 were eliminated. Arsenal topped the table with a perfect eight wins, marking the first flawless league-phase campaign under the new format.

Four other English clubs joined the Gunners in the top eight: Liverpool (third), Tottenham Hotspur (fourth), Chelsea (sixth), and Manchester City (eighth). The remaining direct qualifiers were Bayern Munich (second), Barcelona (fifth), and Sporting CP (seventh).

Real Madrid forced to play the playoff round

Despite entering Matchday 8 in third place, Real Madrid dropped out of the top eight following a 4–2 loss to Benfica, sealed by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s stoppage-time header. Finishing with 15 points from eight matches, Mbappé’s side must now navigate two additional knockout games to reach the Round of 16.

Other high-profile teams headed for the playoff round include Atlético Madrid, Juventus, and last season’s finalists Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. Among the most notable eliminations are Italian champions Napoli, Spain’s Athletic Club, and France’s Olympique Marseille.

When and how will the Champions League playoffs be played?

The draw for the Champions League playoffs, which will determine the Round of 32 matchups, will take place on January 30 in Nyon, Switzerland. While pairings will be finalized then, several matchups are already restricted based on league-phase standings.

Final positioning is decisive under the current format, as teams are paired by finishing spots (9 and 10, 11 and 12, 13 and 14, and so on) and placed on opposite sides of the bracket, preventing them from meeting until the final. This structure directly shapes each club’s path through the knockout rounds.

As a result, each team will have two possible opponents, starting with the 23rd- and 24th-place finishers and working upward to the 17th and 18th. Unlike previous formats, clubs from the same country may now face each other from the knockout stage onward, and rematches from the league phase are also possible.

The playoffs will be played over consecutive weeks in February, with first legs scheduled for February 17 and 18 and return legs on February 24 and 25. A subsequent draw on February 27 will then integrate the playoff winners into the Round of 16.

The Saudi Pro League could soon lose a World Cup winner who arrived by following in Cristiano Ronaldo’s footsteps.

The Saudi Pro League has been a major attraction in recent years for top-level players who left Europe in exchange for massive salaries. Cristiano Ronaldo was the first to take that path, and many other stars followed. Now, a World Cup winner could be set to leave the league in order to return to Europe.

“After two and a half seasons at Al Ittihad, N’Golo Kante has never been closer to leaving Saudi Arabia,” Foot Mercato reports. The reasons behind this situation are tied to opposing positions held by the player and the Saudi club, with each side defending its own interests.

“With his contract expiring next June, Kante has refused to extend his stay with Al Ittihad,” the report adds. “Al Ittihad’s strategy is clear: they don’t want to lose one of their key players for free… The Saudi club intends to use this winter transfer window to reduce its wage bill while also recouping a transfer fee.”

Kante joined the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023 after shining with Chelsea and was one of Al Ittihad’s marquee signings alongside Karim Benzema. Since then, the midfielder has made 106 appearances, scored 10 goals, and won two titles.

However, his move to a less competitive league has hurt Kante’s chances of remaining part of Didier Deschamps’ France squad, something the player is eager to address ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Can Kante play at the 2026 World Cup?

N’Golo Kante was one of the key figures in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia in 2018. He formed a brilliant midfield partnership with Paul Pogba that proved decisive in stabilizing the team on the road to the title, allowing attacking stars such as Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe to shine.

However, Kante lost his place ahead of the 2022 World Cup due to injury and was unable to take part in the tournament. Six months later, his move to the Saudi Pro League dealt another blow to his national team prospects. Since then, Kante has missed 22 of France’s last 34 matches.

A club change during the January transfer window could benefit the 34-year-old midfielder, who may find greater exposure in a European league and convince Deschamps that he is capable of playing at the next World Cup.

Kante’s potential destination

Al Ittihad’s position regarding Kante appears clear at the moment: either extend his contract to keep him at the club or negotiate his departure during the January transfer window to avoid losing him on a free transfer in the summer.

“This situation could facilitate a swift departure for the French international, especially as Fenerbahce’s interest is growing and discussions could intensify in the coming days,” Foot Mercato notes. The Turkish club is competing in the UEFA Europa League, which could provide Kante with the visibility he needs at this stage of his career.

With a last-minute header, goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin turned into Benfica's hero to avoid elimination from the UEFA Champions League in a 4-2 win over Real Madrid.

Benfica were on the brink of elimination from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, needing a two-goal victory against Real Madrid to survive. In the final play of the match, goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin became the unlikely hero, rising for a dramatic header to secure a playoff spot.

After five losses and just two wins in their first seven matches, Benfica entered the night in a precarious position, needing both three points and a significant goal-difference swing to climb into the top 24. The situation worsened early, as Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with a record-breaking Champions League goal.

Spurred on by the home crowd, Benfica responded through Andreas Schjelderup’s equalizer in the 36th minute, before Vangelis Pavlidis completed the turnaround from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time. Schjelderup added his second in the 54th minute, but Mbappé pulled one back four minutes later to make it 3-2.

With Bodø/Glimt’s stunning 2-1 win away at Atlético Madrid, Benfica still needed to surpass Olympique Marseille, who sat 24th on nine points with a minus-three goal difference. That left the Portuguese side requiring one more goal to avoid elimination.

GOAL!

WHAT A MOMENT FOR BENFICA GOALKEEPER ANATOLIY TRUBIN 😱#beINUCL #UCL pic.twitter.com/2BwcMHVUEb

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) January 28, 2026

Despite only five minutes of added time, a foul by Jude Bellingham on Fredrik Aursnes in the 97th minute gave Benfica one final opportunity. At José Mourinho’s urging, Trubin joined the attack, and on Aursnes’ delivery, the Ukrainian goalkeeper powered home the decisive header in the dying seconds.

Moments earlier, Trubin had absorbed a Real Madrid shot to the chest, briefly slowing play as Benfica desperately chased one final goal. As club legend and president Rui Costa and the Benfica board erupted in the stands, the goalkeeper etched his name into one of the club’s most dramatic European moments in recent years.

Benfica stun Real Madrid, drop them into Champions League playoff zone

With the league phase of the UEFA Champions League now complete, Benfica claimed the final playoff spot with their stunning victory. The result also came at Real Madrid’s expense, knocking the Spanish giants out of the top eight.

Entering Matchday 8 in third place, Real Madrid needed a win to secure direct qualification or a draw paired with favorable results elsewhere. Instead, Benfica’s 4–2 win, combined with Manchester City finishing eighth on 16 points, dropped Los Blancos to ninth, forcing them into the playoff round rather than a direct berth in the Round of 16.

While Rafael Leão remains one of AC Milan’s standout players, he could be tempted to leave the club. The Portuguese star has reportedly become a top target for a Premier League side ahead the 2026-27 season.

Even though Rafael Leão began the 2025–26 season without a guaranteed starting role under coach Massimiliano Allegri, he turned his situation around and became a key player for AC Milan. As the Italian side aims for UEFA Champions League spots, they are also planning key reinforcements. Nonetheless, the Portuguese star might be tempted to leave the Rossoneri, as he has reportedly become a priority target for a Premier League club.

According to a report by Nathan Salt of TEAMtalk, Manchester United are closely monitoring AC Milan’s Rafael Leão. While the Portuguese winger is among the team’s top scorers this season, the Rossoneri would be willing to let him go only for a fee in the €80–85 million range, a figure they have previously quoted to Arsenal. With Patrick Dorgu as their only natural left winger, the arrival of the 26-year-old star would represent a marquee signing for the Red Devils.

With Massimiliano Allegri’s arrival, the Rossoneri underwent major changes in their offense. With this, Rafael Leão’s continuity was in jeopardy, as he would no longer be able to play as a winger. Despite this, the coach decided to stick with the Portuguese, which proved to be a success as he is now the team’s second-highest scorer, netting eight goals and demonstrating his importance.

Rafael Leao’s departure would carry significant weight, as he has been one of the AC Milan’s standout players since 2019. However, coach Allegri consistently favors a two-striker formation, which limits Leao to a second striker role that doesn’t allow him to showcase his talents on the wing. Additionally, the 26-year-old star has repeatedly expressed his desire to play in the Premier League, which makes his departure a real possibility.

Leao’s potential departure could spark AC Milan’s offensive reset

Massimiliano Allegri has managed to raise AC Milan’s competitiveness by relying on a solid defense and a consistent midfield. However, they still face serious issues within the squad, as the defensive line remains quite thin in terms of rotation. In addition, the Rossoneri have been struggling in front of goal, making attacking reinforcements seem inevitable. For that reason, Rafael Leao’s departure would not necessarily be a negative outcome.

Leao may still manage to maintain a good level as a striker, but he has not been able to reach his best form when playing as a left winger. Given this, star’s departure to the Red Devils might not be entirely negative, as it would allow AC Milan to strengthen their attack with a player more suited to Massimiliano Allegri’s needs. Similarly, the Portuguese player would once again have the opportunity to shine as a left winger, returning to his best form.

One of Lionel Messi’s records in the UEFA Champions League was matched by Robert Lewandowski after his goal on Wednesday against Copenhagen.

Wednesday’s decisive matchday in the UEFA Champions League league phase brought moments of maximum tension and pressure, with clubs fighting for their future in the competition. Barcelona and Copenhagen were no exception, and it was there that Robert Lewandowski scored a goal that allowed him to equal one of Lionel Messi’s records.

The Danish side had taken an early lead thanks to a goal from Viktor Dadason. However, after the break, Barcelona pulled level through the Polish striker, who finished off an excellent team move with a delicate right-footed touch.

With that goal, Lewandowski equaled Messi’s record as the player who has scored against the most teams in Champions League history. Since making his debut in the competition with Borussia Dortmund during the 2011–12 season, Lewandowski has now scored against 40 different clubs.

The 37-year-old forward struggled to reach this milestone. He had finished last season just two goals shy of Messi’s record, but physical issues over the past few months prevented him from reaching it sooner.

In fact, during the league phase, Barcelona faced three opponents that Lewandowski had never scored against before (Newcastle, Club Brugge, and Eintracht Frankfurt), and he was unable to do so this time as well. It was only last week against Slavia Praha that Lewandowski added another club to his list of victims, and he had one more chance on Wednesday against Copenhagen, an opportunity he did not waste.

Lewandowski’s favorite Champions League victims

Robert Lewandowski is the third-highest scorer in Champions League history, with 107 goals in 140 matches, trailing only Lionel Messi (129 goals) and Cristiano Ronaldo (140 goals). As a result, it comes as no surprise that so many clubs have suffered at the hands of the Polish striker.

Over the course of his career with Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona, the club he has scored against most often is Benfica, with a total of nine goals. Behind them are Red Star Belgrade with seven, followed by Real Madrid and Salzburg with six each.

Can Lewandowski surpass Messi and claim the record outright?

Considering that Lionel Messi no longer competes in the Champions League, and that his contract extension with Inter Miami through December 2028 makes a return to Europe unlikely, Robert Lewandowski has a strong chance to claim the record outright.

However, uncertainty surrounding his own future means the Polish striker may not have many more opportunities to do so. With that in mind, Barcelona’s upcoming matches in the Champions League knockout stages could prove crucial in giving him the chance to secure the record.

Among the teams still alive in the 2025–26 Champions League, Lewandowski has not scored against several of them: Liverpool, Newcastle, Sporting CP, Atalanta, Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiacos, Club Brugge, Galatasaray, AS Monaco, Qarabag FK, and FK Bodo/Glimt. Whether Barcelona are drawn against any of those sides in the later rounds will come down to chance—and to Lewandowski’s ability to score the goal that would give him the outright record.