Since his debut at just 15 years old, Lamine Yamal has shown extraordinary talent that allowed him to establish himself at Barcelona despite his young age. Now, after several seasons as a professional, the Spanish winger is making giant strides in his career, putting him on par with icons like Lionel Messi.

This Saturday, Yamal scored one of Barcelona’s goals in a 3-0 win over Mallorca in matchday 23 of La Liga. His goal came in the 61st minute, when he received a pass from Dani Olmo and struck powerfully from outside the box with his left foot, leaving the opposing goalkeeper with no chance. Robert Lewandowski and Marc Bernal scored the other goals.

Yamal’s goal not only helped Barcelona secure the victory over Mallorca, which consolidates their position at the top of the La Liga standings, but it also marked his 40th goal for the club in 136 appearances—an impressive figure considering he is only 18 years and 204 days old.

His first goal came on October 8, 2023, in a La Liga match against Granada. Since then, he has scored 24 goals in the Spanish league, 7 in the Copa del Rey, and 9 in the UEFA Champions League. Unsurprisingly, this season is his most prolific yet, with 14 goals and 13 assists in 29 matches across all competitions.

How long did it take Messi to score 40 goals for Barcelona?

To put Lamine Yamal’s numbers into perspective, it’s worth comparing them with Lionel Messi’s early career. At 18 years and 204 days—the same age Yamal is now—the Argentine forward had only played 23 matches and scored 3 goals for Barcelona.

Messi had to wait much longer to reach his first 40 goals for the club. He achieved the milestone on February 20, 2008, when he scored a brace in Barcelona’s 3-2 win over Celtic in the 2007-08 UEFA Champions League. At that time, Messi was 20 years and 241 days old.

Comparing Yamal and Messi on the international stage

Lamine Yamal’s early impact at Barcelona also extends to the Spanish national team. He is now a regular in coach Luis De La Fuente’s call-ups and played a key role in Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 title at just 17 years old.

In this regard, Yamal also has a clear advantage over Messi. So far, the Barcelona winger has 23 appearances, 6 goals, and 12 assists for Spain, along with the European title. Messi, by comparison, had played only 5 matches for Argentina at the same age, with two assists and no goals.

Lamine Yamal has been virtually unstoppable since breaking into Barcelona’s first team. His creativity and dribbling have created numerous goal chances and assists, while also making him the most fouled player on the team, something Hansi Flick has openly complained about.

Flick is a passionate manager who shows more energy than most of his German counterparts. He said a few months ago that he would try to calm down after being sent off against Girona, just before a visit to Real Madrid. In Saturday’s win over Mallorca, he protested again but received only a yellow card.

The manager explained what he told the referee during his post-match press conference: “I don’t think there were reasons to show me a yellow card. I just clarified that the Mallorca players in the wall were too close and that there was a foul on Lamine inside the box.”

Flick’s explanation on substituting Yamal

The season is entering its most demanding phase for clubs with major ambitions. With Barcelona still competing in the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey, managing minutes has become essential, especially for a player as important as Yamal.

With Atletico Madrid coming up in a Copa del Rey semifinal on Thursday in Madrid, keeping Yamal fresh was a priority. That was the main reason behind his substitution with a little more than 10 minutes remaining.

Flick reassured concerned fans: “We have to manage his minutes. He’s enjoying himself, but in the first half he wasn’t at his best. He saved energy for the second part, and I can’t blame him.”

Flick on what to improve before the Atletico match

Flick addressed several topics when speaking with the media, including preparations for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against a difficult opponent. His focus was on aspects Barcelona failed to execute early against Mallorca.

Concentration was a key point for the manager: “We are playing many matches. I hope that on Thursday against Atletico we see a different team in the first minutes. I played football and I know how it is. In the first half we didn’t have the right attitude, but in the second we did.”

Just two weeks separate Inter Miami from the start of the 2026 Major League Soccer season, which will see them open the campaign against Los Angeles FC in California. With the goal of being fully prepared for that challenge, Lionel Messi and his teammates are using these exhibition matches to build fitness and match sharpness. Saturday’s game against Barcelona SC will be their third of the preseason.

Results for the Herons during the preseason have been mixed. They opened the year with a heavy 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru, a performance that exposed flaws not typically associated with the reigning MLS champions. That image improved significantly last Saturday, however, when they earned a 2-1 win over Atletico Nacional in Colombia.

Inter Miami’s next opponent will be Barcelona SC, one of the most important clubs in Ecuador. The Guayaquil-based side has won the domestic league 13 times, most recently in the 2020 season.

Like the Herons, Barcelona SC are also in the final stretch of their preseason, during which they played two friendlies against Guayaquil City. On February 18, they will face their first official test of the year, opening their Copa Libertadores qualifying campaign against Argentinos Juniors.

Projected Inter Miami lineup

As in the previous two friendlies, Inter Miami will enter Saturday’s match without several key players. The most notable absence is Tadeo Allende, who has yet to train with the team this year due to administrative issues related to the approval of his visa.

Lionel Messi is expected to be part of the starting lineup once again. He has featured in both preseason matches so far — in each case being substituted in the second half — and is gradually regaining full match fitness. Another important note is that German Berterame, one of the club’s marquee signings this year, is expected to start on the bench.

Javier Mascherano’s projected lineup to face Barcelona SC is: Dayne St Clair; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen, Facundo Mura; Rodrigo De Paul, David Ayala, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Mateo Silvetti.

Projected Barcelona SC lineup

As with Inter Miami, Saturday’s friendly represents one of Barcelona SC’s final opportunities to experiment ahead of the start of official competition in 2026. As a result, head coach Cesar Farias is expected to field most of his top players.

Barcelona SC’s projected starting lineup against Inter Miami is: Jose David Contreras; Byron Castillo, Jhonnier Chala, Luca Sosa, Anibal Chala; Jesus Trindade, Leonai Souza; Jhandry Gomez, Joao Rojas, Braian Oyola; Dario Benedetto.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have long been locked in a war of words, and manager Álvaro Arbeloa is the latest to join the exchange. Tensions have escalated in recent weeks between presidents Florentino Pérez and Joan Laporta— the rivalry’s most prominent voices — but they are far from the only ones involved.

Arbeloa has many areas to focus on, with his team struggling for consistent performances, but that did not stop him from commenting on the Negreira case at the pre-match press conference before the trip to Valencia. The ongoing debate has continued to surround the club despite the sporting challenges.

The manager’s remarks made his position clear: “Nobody understands that, to this day, the biggest scandal in Spanish soccer history hasn’t been resolved. That happens to everybody.” He insisted the situation remains difficult to explain while the case is still unresolved.

Negreira case raises questions over Barcelona payments

The “Negreira case” involves accusations that Barcelona transferred money over several years to a company tied to Enriquez Negreira, who at the time served as vice president of Spain’s refereeing committee. Those transactions prompted formal investigations and renewed debate over whether financial ties influenced refereeing decisions in Spanish soccer.

The situation has led to court inquiries, sustained media attention, and increased tension between clubs and refereeing authorities. It has also intensified calls for clearer rules, stronger oversight, and greater transparency in the sport’s governance.

Arbeloa has many absences for the Valencia match

Real Madrid has not met expectations this season, a run that led to Xabi Alonso’s dismissal and Arbeloa’s appointment as interim manager. Still, the team sits four points behind Barcelona.

Arbeloa did not find much help in the squad list for the match at Mestalla. The main absence will be Vinicius, who is suspended, and a major midfield loss will be Jude Bellingham, who is sidelined by injury.

Those absences are compounded by Rodrygo’s own injury; he was expected to step into Vinicius’s role. The defense will also miss an important player, with Militão ruled out through injury.

Rodrygo was a huge piece of Real Madrid’s success in past seasons. His appearances in decisive matches were crucial, especially in their Champions League titles. However, his importance has diminished since Xabi Alonso’s hiring.

Alonso’s departure didn’t help much because he wasn’t a starter for Álvaro Arbeloa either, but a suspension to Vinicius opened a spot in the attack for the match against Valencia. Unfortunately, he will not replace his fellow Brazilian.

Real Madrid confirmed Rodrygo has been diagnosed with right hamstring tendinosis that will keep him out at Mestalla. The estimated absence is around 10 days, which means he may also miss the home match with Real Sociedad.

Rodrygo’s return will take even longer

The problems for Rodrygo to regain a place in the team don’t stop with injuries. This setback could keep him out for the next two matches. However, he won’t be available for Real Madrid’s match after Real Sociedad.

Even if he recovers in time to be fit for the Champions League playoff against Benfica, Rodrygo will not play. The reason is he received a red card in the chaotic ending of the last league-phase match that ended in a 4-2 defeat during the visit to Portugal.

His return could then come when Real Madrid visits Osasuna in La Liga on February 21. Notably, he will not be available for the second leg in the European competition because he received a two-match suspension for his gesture toward the referee.

Rodrygo’s replacement in Valencia

Every injury is ill-timed for players who aren’t a manager’s favorite. This one may have hurt even more because he was almost certain to start in Vinicius’ absence. Rodrygo’s status isn’t the only issue Arbeloa is facing for the weekend.

Jude Bellingham is another major absence, leaving Kylian Mbappé with even more pressure to be the main scoring option. Arbeloa could opt to put the Frenchman in his natural left-side position with Gonzalo Garcia as the traditional No. 9 up front. Other alternatives are Franco Mastantuono, Brahim Díaz, or even Federico Valverde on the right wing.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s tenure in Saudi Arabia is entering an unprecedented chapter. The 41-year-old superstar, who joined Al-Nassr in early 2023, has found himself at the center of a growing controversy, one that could see him facing potential disciplinary action. His recent absence from consecutive matches has sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League.

On Monday, he skipped Al-Nassr’s 1-0 win against Al-Riyadh, and just days later, he was missing again as his team triumphed 2-0 over Al-Ittihad thanks to goals from Sadio Mane and Angelo Gabriel. According to Portuguese daily A Bola, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has taken this stand due to unpaid salaries—a staggering sum reportedly just under $23.6 million per month, totaling over $236 million per season.

“Cristiano has realized that there has been no change in the attitude towards him from the PIF fund… so much so that, in addition to the lack of investment in the transfer market, there continue to be major delays in the payment of salaries to the club’s players, staff and employees,” revealed A Bola. The striker reportedly stated he would have played had his back wages been received, highlighting a rare defiance from a player often seen as supremely professional.

The Saudi Pro League appears ready to facilitate Ronaldo’s departure this summer, despite his global stature. Various reports from England suggest that league officials are considering bringing in new stars like Mohamed Salah or Bruno Fernandes, signaling a strategic shift aimed at maintaining the league’s international appeal with players still at the peak of their careers.

“The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: every club operates independently under the same rules… No individual – however significant – determines decisions beyond their own club,” a league spokesperson told BBC Sport. This statement underscores that even someone of the Portuguese’s stature cannot dictate recruitment or financial decisions beyond Al-Nassr’s management.

Behind the scenes: Rivalries and transfers

Ronaldo’s frustrations are compounded by the league’s ongoing competitive reshaping. Al-Hilal, also owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), recently acquired Karim Benzema, Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate, who marked his debut with a sensational hat-trick. Meanwhile, Al-Nassr’s recent transfer activity has been criticized as insufficient, especially compared to rivals who have spent heavily to strengthen their squads.

“Recent transfer activity demonstrates that independence clearly. One club strengthened in a particular way. Another chose a different approach. Those were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters,” the Saudi Pro League added.

Despite his absence, Al-Nassr has won back-to-back matches, closing the gap with Al-Hilal to just a single point in the title race. Ronaldo himself has been prolific this season, scoring 17 league goals in 18 matches, still chasing the historic milestone of 1,000 senior career goals, currently sitting on 961.

The sanctions question

While Ronaldo’s protest centers on finances and club management, his absence without a medical or technical justification may lead to formal sanctions. London-based Arabic newspaper, Asharq Al-Awsat, reports that continued refusal to play could trigger disciplinary measures, including financial deductions or fines. This situation puts the legendary forward in a delicate position: balancing professional principles, personal financial expectations, and the scrutiny of an entire league.

The saga between Kylian Mbappe and Paris Saint-Germain refuses to fade quietly into history. Long after his high-profile exit and his move into a new chapter of his career, the Real Madrid superstar remains at the center of a legal storm that continues to haunt the club that once built its entire project around him. While many assumed the conflict had reached its conclusion, new developments suggest the dispute is entering yet another dramatic phase.

Mbappe’s name remains synonymous with PSG’s modern era, and even now, his shadow still looms over the club. This time, the controversy has resurfaced not on the pitch, but in courtrooms and legal documents, where millions of dollars are still at stake.

The legal conflict between PSG and Mbappe dates back to the final months of his contract, which ended in the summer of 2024. After his departure, the French forward accused the club of failing to pay various salaries, bonuses, and contractual obligations.

In December 2025, the Paris labor tribunal delivered a decisive ruling in favor of the player. The court ordered the French giant to pay nearly $66.4 million, including around $60 million in unpaid wages and bonuses, as well as additional compensation tied to accrued leave and interest. Despite the ruling, the dispute never truly closed.

The hidden reason revealed

While the Parisians complied with part of the judgment, a crucial portion of the money remained unpaid. The club settled the $60 million related to salary and bonuses but failed to pay the remaining $6.4 million tied to paid leave and legal interest.

That unresolved sum is now the center of a new escalation in the case. According to L’Equipe, Mbappe’s legal team recently sent a bailiff to PSG’s headquarters with a formal demand for immediate payment. The club was given an eight-day deadline to settle the outstanding amount or face serious legal consequences.

“Discussions are underway with the player’s representatives on the terms of payment of the remaining sums,” the club stated. “All salaries and bonuses owed to Kylian Mbappe have been paid in full by Paris Saint-Germain.” However, the Frenchman’s camp sees the matter differently.

Bailiffs, deadlines, and what PSG risks losing

The arrival of a bailiff at PSG’s offices marks a dramatic escalation in the legal battle. The order demands that the remaining $6.4 million be paid within eight days, or the authorities could move to seize assets directly from the club’s accounts. Legal experts suggest this is not a symbolic gesture. If PSG fails to comply, enforcement measures could be triggered quickly, potentially embarrassing the club on a global stage.

The case has become one of the most high-profile financial disputes between a player and a club in modern soccer, underlining the growing power players have in legal battles over contracts and compensation.

In a season defined by relentless schedules, mounting pressure, and tactical evolution across the continent, Christian Pulisic has become a central figure in one of European soccer’s most remarkable campaigns. His club has quietly built a reputation for inevitability, consistency, and resilience; qualities that have placed it among the continent’s most elite sides.

While rivals across Europe’s biggest leagues stumble under the weight of expectations, Milan has continued to defy the chaos. And now, as winter tightens its grip on the soccer calendar, Pulisic finds himself linked to a rare statistical milestone that underlines just how extraordinary this season has been for the Rossoneri.

Across Europe’s top five leagues—the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1—consistency has been the rarest currency. Injuries, fixture congestion, and tactical experimentation have derailed even the strongest squads. But only three clubs across Europe’s top five leagues have suffered just one league defeat this season.

Those clubs are Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and Christian Pulisic’s AC Milan. This statistic places the Rossoneri in an elite trio, highlighting their sustained dominance in a campaign where most contenders have faltered multiple times. It is not just about brilliance; it is about avoiding collapse, managing pressure, and grinding out results week after week.

How Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund’s seasons intertwined

Bayern Munich’s season has felt almost mechanical. The Bavarians’ structure, intensity, and attacking firepower have overwhelmed opponents across Germany. Their lone defeat came in a rare off-day against Augsburg on January 24, 2026, when defensive errors and missed opportunities punished their usually flawless system. However, since that 2-1 setback, Bayern has reasserted its authority, reminding the Bundesliga why it remains the benchmark.

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund’s single defeat carries a familiar storyline. Niko Kovac’s only loss came away at Bayern Munich on October 18, 2025, a 2-1 loss that has long defined the Bundesliga title race.

Christian Pulisic’s Milan: Italy’s relentless contender

Then there is Milan, whose season began in a completely different emotional register. When the Red and Blacks opened their campaign with a 2-1 home defeat to newly promoted Cremonese on August 23, 2025, many feared the worst.

It was a painful déjà vu—a flashback to a previous season many supporters wanted to forget. A team that had finished eighth the year before seemed destined for another turbulent cycle. San Siro felt restless, the narrative felt familiar, and doubts surrounded Massimiliano Allegri’s rebuild.

But soccer seasons often hinge on strange turning points. And in retrospect, that defeat may have been a blessing in disguise, especially as Milan’s story has been built on balance and belief. Christian Pulisic has been one of the defining figures in their attack, combining creativity, goals, and leadership in a season that has reignited their Scudetto ambitions.

From early crisis to continuity: Allegri’s unbeaten run

What followed that opening-day loss has been nothing short of remarkable. Milan has not lost a single Serie A match since that defeat. With their victory in Bologna, it extended its unbeaten run to 22 consecutive league matches, a sequence unmatched anywhere in Europe’s top leagues during the 2025-26 season. Allegri’s side now holds the longest active unbeaten streak on the continent, standing above Bayern and Dortmund in terms of sheer continuity.

The historical echoes are impossible to ignore. The last time Milan went on such a run in a single season was during the legendary 1992-93 campaign under Fabio Capello, when the team reached 23 matches without defeat. Interestingly, Milan’s unbeaten run will now not be extended by victory, but by absence. The club’s Matchday 24 fixture against Como was postponed, meaning they won’t have to step onto the pitch to defend their record.

In a weekend where every major contender took the field, one absence immediately raised eyebrows. Christian Pulisic and Milan were nowhere to be found on the Serie A Matchday 24 schedule, despite being deeply involved in the title race.

For supporters and observers alike, the silence is striking. No kickoff, no lineup, no buildup—just a conspicuous gap in a weekend packed with fixtures. As rivals continued their campaigns, questions began to swirl: why are the Rossoneri absent, and what is really happening behind the scenes?

The 2025-26 Serie A season has evolved into a tense battle at the top, with Napoli, Inter, and Milan separated by narrow margins. Pulisic’s side sits five points behind Inter while chasing the Scudetto, and every matchday carries enormous weight. Yet, while Juventus, Lazio, Roma, and others played crucial fixtures, Milan stands still; an anomaly in a league where momentum is everything.

The reason finally revealed

The answer lies far from soccer itself. San Siro, Milan’s historic home stadium, is unavailable because it hosts the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on February 6, 2026.

With massive staging infrastructure, rehearsals, and security measures occupying the venue, hosting a soccer match was impossible. As a result, the scheduled home fixture against Como was postponed and rescheduled. The new date was confirmed as Wednesday, February 18, 2026, turning what should have been a routine weekend match into a midweek clash.

Before the postponement was finalized, Serie A even explored a radical alternative: staging the match in Perth, Australia. But the plan collapsed amid financial and logistical concerns. “Plans for Perth to host the first-ever official European league match for points outside its national borders are off,” the league stated, citing risks and approval complications.

The rescheduling has created a brutal calendar stretch for Milan. Massimiliano Allegri’s players will play three league matches in ten days, a scenario that often determines title races. Fixture congestion means rotation dilemmas, fatigue risks, and a greater likelihood of injuries—especially for key players. Ironically, the postponement also gives the Rossoneri a game in hand in the standings, a psychological and mathematical advantage if they convert it into three points.

Strategic pause for Christian Pulisic

While the schedule disruption caused frustration, it also delivered something rare: time. Christian Pulisic has been dealing with bursitis near the hip, an inflammation issue that forced him out of recent matches. Massimiliano Allegri confirmed the situation, saying “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” adding hope that the winger would be “back on track in the coming days.”

Because of the rescheduled match and fixture gaps, Pulisic and his teammate, Rafael Leao, have received a 20-day recovery window, an almost unheard-of luxury during a title race. This period is being treated as a controlled reset—focused on therapy, load management, and restoring rhythm rather than risking further setbacks.

Cristiano Ronaldo may have been missing from the pitch once again, but his shadow loomed large as Al-Nassr navigated another turbulent night. Even with the Portuguese star dominating headlines for his ongoing standoff, a fresh issue emerged involving its second winter arrival, Abdullah Al-Hamdan — one that has pulled both Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad into an unexpected dispute and added another layer of pressure on the club.

On the surface, Al-Nassr appeared to be stabilizing. A strong performance, a clean sheet, and growing fan unity suggested resilience. Yet behind the scenes, a new controversy was quietly forming, one that threatened to complicate matters far beyond Cristiano Ronaldo’s self-imposed strike.

The veteran’s decision to miss a second consecutive Saudi Pro League fixture continued to dominate the narrative. His absence against Al-Ittihad was not due to injury or fitness concerns, but rather a calculated protest aimed at the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)’s handling of elite clubs.

Ronaldo has scored 91 goals in 95 league appearances since joining Al-Nassr, making his refusal to play impossible to ignore. Despite returning to training, he was left out of the matchday squad entirely, signaling that tensions remain unresolved. “Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr,” Fabrizio Romano reported. “His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs.” That distinction has been echoed by Portuguese media, which has consistently framed the conflict as institutional rather than personal.

The real storm breaks: The Al-Hamdan controversy

While attention remained fixed on Ronaldo, a quieter but potentially explosive issue emerged midway through the week. Al-Hilal officially filed a complaint regarding Abdullah Al-Hamdan’s contract termination, arguing that the striker’s deal was still valid when he appeared for Al-Nassr.

According to Arriyadiyah, the club believes the termination violated regulations, as the contract was due to expire on Friday, February 6, the same day Al-Hamdan featured in the league match. The Blue Waves contend that the player unilaterally ended his contract via email, a move they describe as an attempt to circumvent league rules. Late on the final night of the winter transfer window, Al-Nassr announced Al-Hamdan’s signing on a free transfer — a decision now under scrutiny.

Al-Ittihad joins the dispute

The situation escalated further when Al-Ittihad also filed an official protest, questioning Al-Hamdan’s eligibility to play in the match against them. Saudi journalist Ahmed Al-Ajlan confirmed that the protest was submitted to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), adding fuel to an already tense rivalry. At the heart of the issue is timing. The 26-year-old forward’s contract expiration date and his immediate registration with Al-Nassr created a legal gray area — one rival clubs believe should be examined closely.

Despite the growing noise, Al-Nassr reportedly remains calm. Journalist Ali Al-Anzi confirmed that all official approvals were secured and that Al-Hamdan’s participation was fully legal. “Abdullah Al-Hamdan’s registration is 100% legitimate,” Al-Anzi stated, adding that no sanctions are expected for the club.

Another reliable insider, Abdulaziz Al-Osaimi, clarified that any potential violation would apply only to the player, not to Al-Nassr — a crucial distinction that could shield the club from sporting penalties.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Angelo Gabriel were at the center of a dramatic night in Riyadh, even though only one of them actually stepped onto the pitch. As Al-Nassr faced Al-Ittihad in a high-stakes Saudi Pro League clash, the spotlight was fixed not just on the game, but on a growing storm surrounding the club, its ownership structure, and its most iconic figure. Amid swirling rumors, vocal fan support, and an emotional moment late in the game, the night became far more than just a 2-0 victory; it turned into a statement of unity, defiance, and symbolism.

Ronaldo’s absence dominated headlines long before kickoff. The Portuguese superstar missed his second consecutive Saudi Pro League match, not because of injury or rotation, but as part of a self-imposed protest against the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) management of the league’s top clubs.

The 41-year-old forward, who has scored 91 goals in 95 league appearances for Al-Nassr, reportedly feels that the PIF has favored rivals—particularly Al Hilal—during recent transfer windows. The January signing of Karim Benzema by Al-Hilal, contrasted with the club’s modest additions, intensified those frustrations and pushed Ronaldo toward a symbolic stand.

“Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr. His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs,” various outlets report, capturing the essence of the dispute. The message is clear: The veteran’s protest is not directed at his teammates or the coaching staff, but at the broader power structure shaping Saudi soccer.

Despite returning to training ahead of the match, Ronaldo was left out of the squad entirely, with Sadio Mane, Kingsley Coman, and Joao Felix forming the attacking trio against Al-Ittihad. The absence of both Ronaldo and Benzema—now at Al-Hilal—meant that two of the league’s biggest stars were missing from a fixture that was supposed to showcase Saudi soccer’s elite.

Fans and teammates rally around their captain

Inside Al-Awwal Park, the response from supporters was immediate and emotional. In the seventh minute, a symbolic reference to Ronaldo’s legendary shirt number, thousands of fans raised banners bearing his name and number, chanting in unison. The gesture was a powerful reminder that, for many, Ronaldo remains the heartbeat of Al-Nassr, regardless of off-field politics.

On the pitch, the Knight of Najd delivered a disciplined performance despite the distractions. The first half was tense and goalless, with both teams cautious and organized. The breakthrough finally arrived late in the second half when Sadio Mane converted a penalty in the 84th minute, giving the home side a deserved lead.

As the visitors pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Al-Nassr struck again on the counterattack. Angelo Gabriel sealed the victory in stoppage time, finishing calmly to make it 2-0 and keep his club firmly in the title race, just one point behind Al-Hilal. But it was what happened after that goal that truly captured the world’s attention.

The moment that went viral

In a poignant and symbolic gesture, Angelo Gabriel sprinted toward the corner flag and launched into Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic celebration. The leap, the outstretched arms, the roar toward the crowd—it was unmistakable.

The tribute instantly went viral, with fans praising the young Brazilian winger for honoring his absent teammate. It was a moment of solidarity that transcended tactics and scorelines, symbolizing Ronaldo’s enduring influence on the squad even during his protest. The celebration added emotional weight to an already charged atmosphere, sending a clear message that Ronaldo’s presence is felt even when he is not on the pitch.

Match Overview

The La Liga title race remains razor-thin, with Barcelona and Real Madrid locked in a tense battle and the Blaugrana holding a slim one-point edge at the top of the table. That margin leaves little room for error, making a win essential as Barcelona prepare to face a Mallorca side fighting for survival.

Fresh off a victory over Sevilla, Mallorca have climbed out of the relegation zone with 24 points, but their cushion is just two points, adding urgency to their approach. While they enter as clear underdogs, Mallorca’s desperation for results could make them a tricky and motivated opponent as Barcelona look to protect their place atop La Liga.

Match Overview

Manchester United and Tottenham meet in a Premier League clash that carries very different stakes for each side. United sit fourth on 41 points and know a victory is crucial to stay ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool in the race for a Champions League spot.

On the other hand, Tottenham arrive with renewed confidence after a strong showing against Manchester City despite an uneven league campaign. With pressure on one side and momentum on the other, this is a matchup fans won’t want to miss.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Carlo Ancelotti is already shaping the spine of his Brazil project. The Italian coach has reportedly decided that Vinicius Junior and Raphinha are certain to make the cut, pillars of the new cycle and symbols of continuity in attack. Yet as the list of guaranteed names begins to solidify, one question continues to dominate the national conversation: Will Neymar make it?

Ancelotti’s early clarity offers reassurance, but it also exposes the ruthlessness of modern international soccer. Brazil is not being built on reputation alone, even when that reputation belongs to the most famous forward of a generation.

Since taking charge, the Italian tactician has been deliberate in both tone and selection. While he is believed to be close to finalizing his squad framework, the door remains open for late movement. Speaking publicly in Rio de Janeiro, the coach made it clear that nothing is entirely locked. “The list is not closed,” Ancelotti said, stressing that form, fitness, and intensity across the European season will ultimately determine final decisions.

According to ESPN Brasil, as many as 11 players are already viewed as guaranteed selections if they remain fit, forming the backbone of the squad. That core includes Alisson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Estevao, Matheus Cunha, and Gabriel Martinelli; a blend of leadership, explosiveness, and tactical reliability.

Vinicius and Raphinha, in particular, are seen as non-negotiable. Their consistency at club level and compatibility with Ancelotti’s system make them automatic choices in a tournament where margins are unforgiving.

What about Neymar?

However, Neymar’s place in the Brazil squad is not guaranteed. The 34-year-old remains in a race against time following knee surgery and a prolonged struggle to regain rhythm. While he has returned to full training, doubts persist about whether he can withstand the physical and tactical demands of a modern World Cup.

Ancelotti has been firm and unsentimental. “Modern football does not only demand talent,” the coach said. “But also, physical condition and intensity. If Neymar deserves to be included, if he’s playing well and is better than the alternatives, he will go to the World Cup. But only if he is 100%, not 80%.” That statement has become the defining line of Neymar’s candidacy.

Where and whether Neymar fits

Tactically, Neymar no longer fits neatly into Ancelotti’s structure. He is not viewed as a winger, nor as a traditional No. 9. Instead, the coach sees him, if selected, as a central, hybrid option, operating between lines. “I think he has to play centrally,” Ancelotti explained. “Not on the wing, because in modern soccer the wingers have to help out defensively.”

The issue is competition. That role is already contested by players like Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Joao Pedro, and potentially Endrick – younger, fitter, and fully integrated into the system. For the first time in his international career, the former Barcelona and PSG star is not the default solution. He is an option who must prove superiority, not merely suitability.

There is cautious optimism inside Milan’s walls as Christian Pulisic edges closer to a potential return, yet certainty remains deliberately withheld. After weeks defined by frustration, absences, and improvised solutions, the club has received a positive update on the American’s recovery. Still, as preparations slowly turn toward the upcoming Serie A trip to Pisa, one unresolved factor continues to hover over the decision-making process, preventing any guarantees.

Christian Pulisic’s importance to Milan has been obvious all season. Even when absent, his influence shapes tactical choices, rotations, and risk management. With the calendar offering a rare pause, the club finally has breathing room. However, patience, not urgency, is the guiding principle.

This campaign has tested the Rossoneri’s depth and resilience more than expected. Under Massimiliano Allegri, continuity has been elusive, particularly in attack. Two players, Rafael Leao and Pulisic, above all others, have symbolized this instability, repeatedly sidelined and rarely available together.

When one returned, the other disappeared. When the squad looked ready to build momentum, another setback followed. The result has been a fractured rhythm that limited Milan’s ability to consistently field its strongest attacking configuration.

Despite that, recent results have been encouraging. The comfortable victory against Bologna offered reassurance, even though neither of the star wingers played a decisive role. The American star was not included in the squad at all, while Leao remained unused on the bench.

Pulisic works on recovering while others rest

Following that win, Allegri granted his players several days off, a reward made possible by a break in the schedule. Officially, Milanello was closed. In reality, it was anything but empty. According to Calciomercato, a small group voluntarily reported for individual recovery sessions, using the downtime as an opportunity rather than a holiday. Among them were Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Santiago Gimenez – all dealing with varying physical issues.

“For the star pair, Pulisic and Leao, this break in fixtures is a gift,” noted Calciomercato, underlining how valuable the extra days could prove ahead of Pisa. This quiet commitment speaks volumes about mentality. It is not the first time this group has worked through scheduled rest, and it reinforces how seriously the situation is being treated internally.

The hidden detail finally emerges

Only now does the full picture begin to take shape. The 27-year-old USMNT international has been following a specific recovery plan carefully designed by Allegri and the medical staff, intending to make him available for the match against Pisa. Reports suggest he is progressing well, close to full condition, and increasingly likely to rejoin the squad.

Nonetheless, Milan will not rush the final step. La Gazzetta dello Sport explains that the American’s situation remains the most delicate, with daily monitoring in place to avoid any recurrence. The strategy is clear: zero unnecessary risk, even if that means delaying his return by another match.

Here is where the final variable enters. As per Il Corriere dello Sport, the club’s approach to Pulisic’s return depends heavily on whether Christopher Nkunku can once again be decisive. If the French forward maintains his recent form, the manager can afford patience, managing minutes carefully rather than forcing immediate starts.

“Allegri will ask Nkunku to be decisive again,” wrote Corriere dello Sport, “precisely to give Pulisic and Leao more time to recover.” Nkunku’s situation has shifted dramatically. Once seemingly destined for an exit in January, he is now central to the Red and Blacks’ short-term balance. His recent scoring run, matching his previous 48 league matches in just six games, has reshaped the narrative.

Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England are firmly among the group of favorites to lift the trophy. With Thomas Tuchel at the helm and a roster packed with stars such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden, they will be aiming to replicate the success of 1966. However, at the moment, they are dealing with an unforeseen issue in their tournament preparations.

At the draw held in December, England were placed in Group L, the final group of the tournament, alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama. While that might seem like a minor detail, it carries significant implications when it comes to pre-tournament planning.

That is because Kane and his teammates will be among the last teams to begin World Cup play. Their tournament debut is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, against Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. As a result, they will not play an official match until nearly a week after the tournament begins.

To ensure his team arrives in peak competitive rhythm, the head coach wants England to play friendlies in the days leading up to the World Cup. “Thomas Tuchel wants final preparation games as close to his team’s tournament kick-off as possible,” The Guardian reported. But that is where the schedule has become an unexpected obstacle.

“The Football Association is experiencing difficulties in securing suitable opposition for England’s World Cup warm-up games owing to their late start to the expanded 48-team tournament,” the report added. “Tuchel is understood to have requested friendlies near England’s pre-tournament training camp in Florida on June 6 and June 10 — the night before the World Cup starts — and finding high-caliber opponents for the latter date is proving particularly challenging.”

England’s options for World Cup warm-up friendlies

Under these circumstances, England do not have many options when it comes to selecting opponents for those friendlies, particularly the second one, which would take place almost simultaneously with the start of the World Cup, scheduled for June 11 with Mexico vs. South Africa.

One possibility would be to target national teams in a similar situation to the Three Lions — those placed in groups that begin several days later. However, that approach comes with another complication: FIFA regulations prohibit teams from playing friendlies in the final five days before their World Cup debut.

As a result, potential opponents for a match on June 10 are limited to teams in Groups I, J, and K. Group I includes France, Senegal, Norway, and one winner from the intercontinental playoffs. Group J is made up of Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, while Group K features Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the other intercontinental playoff winner.

“With its options limited, New Zealand, who have qualified, and Costa Rica, who have not, are understood to be under consideration,” The Guardian added. Facing teams that will not be competing at the World Cup could offer a solution for England, though it would mean settling for opponents who are, at least on paper, of a lower level.

Manchester City sits 6 points behind Arsenal in the Premier League. They are one of the biggest obstacles to the title, but they face a very tough challenge on Sunday visiting Liverpool. For that match there are doubts around Erling Haaland’s status, and Pep Guardiola wasn’t clear.

Haaland has not been in great form recently compared with his career numbers. Only one goal in his last seven matches raises questions about his starting spot, and he also faces competition from Omar Marmoush, who scored twice in the Carabao Cup victory over Newcastle United.

Guardiola praised the Norwegian before remaining noncommittal about him. The manager said in the press conference on Friday: “Haaland is the best striker in the world. I don’t know if he’ll play on Sunday, just that he’s the best striker in the world.”

Guardiola on the other injuries

There are many doubts about the lineup Manchester City can present at Anfield. Beyond the form question around Haaland, injuries limit the manager’s options. The main absence may be Bernardo Silva, with Rúben Dias and John Stones also affected by physical issues.

Guardiola explained in a press conference: “Bernardo isn’t ready yet, but tomorrow we will see in training. Dias is back; we’ll see if he plays for a few minutes. It’s good news. Stones trained with the team for the first time yesterday; he’s slowly coming back.”

Guardiola about his emphatic celebration in the Carabao Cup

Every competition should be important for players and coaches. But when someone reaches Guardiola’s status with 39 titles as a manager, a certain level of normalization can be expected for a smaller trophy like the Carabao Cup. Still, reaching the final was very important for him.

He explained his celebration: “As I get older, I have the feeling it’s harder to reach a final each time. The final is on March 22; until then I have the chance to enjoy the fact that we are playing in a final because it’s very hard. To get to finals and win titles nowadays you must sweat. Those are the moments for which we are in this industry.”

Since arriving at Barcelona, Marcus Rashford has delivered performances that have helped relaunch his career. He had not stood out during his final years at Manchester United or in his brief spell with Aston Villa, but in Spain he appears to have found the ideal environment to rediscover his best form.

With more than half the season now complete, the one-year loan agreed last summer between Barcelona and Manchester United is approaching its end, forcing the Catalan club to decide whether to activate the purchase option worth 30 million euros (just over $35 million).

“Both the sporting department and the coaching staff are fully satisfied with the English winger’s performances and adaptation, and the consensus decision is unanimous: Barca will activate the 30 million euro purchase option to secure the player permanently,” Sport reported on Friday.

Given Barcelona’s ongoing financial difficulties, there had been speculation that the club would attempt to negotiate a lower fee for Rashford. However, that option now appears to be off the table. “There will be no negotiations, as Manchester United will not reduce the fee by a single euro,” the report added.

That stance does not seem to have discouraged Barcelona. “At the club, the fee is considered affordable and reasonable given the player’s quality and the astronomical valuations of similar players in the same position who could come onto the market,” Sport explained.

Rashford reportedly willing to do whatever it takes to stay at Barcelona

In Rashford’s case, both the player and Barcelona appear aligned on what should happen once the loan deal expires. Just as the club is prepared to commit a significant sum to keep the forward, Rashford himself may also be willing to make sacrifices if needed.

“Marcus Rashford has no intention of returning to Manchester United from Barcelona this summer,” The Mirror reported this week. “Rashford is willing to renegotiate his annual wages and accept reduced terms, if it helps seal a deal with Barca.”

Rashford’s numbers at Barcelona

Barcelona’s willingness to make Marcus Rashford’s move permanent, even at a cost of more than $35 million, is backed by the English forward’s on-field production during his short time in Spain this season.

In La Liga, Rashford has made 20 appearances so far — 12 of them as a starter — registering four goals and eight assists. He has added five goals and four assists in eight UEFA Champions League matches, along with one goal and one assist across five appearances in the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey. With 23 goal contributions in 33 matches, the English forward has done more than enough to justify Barcelona’s interest in keeping him.

Liverpool has been a disappointing team this season considering the transfers Arne Slot asked for. Having spent more than any other Premier League club, they were expected to be a club contending for the title, but are now sixth in the standings.

With all the tools Slot has at his disposal, his comments earlier this week were controversial. The Dutch manager said in The Reds Roundtable podcast: “As a manager, you can win the league, Champions League, the FA Cup or the League Cup but the biggest thing you can win is that you can play the nicest football to watch.”

In an interview with Sky Sports, he expanded on his views. Slot was talking about the future, not just the moment, in the conversation ahead of the match with Manchester City: “If you don’t play good football, it’s impossible to win something or to achieve something sustainable.”

Slot on the Premier League style

Last season it was a cruise for Liverpool to win the Premier League by a long margin. This one was expected to have them at the top after making expensive signings like Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike among others. The first five matches were victories, but then the problems began.

The manager said the team was surprised by the style change: “We never waste time. We always want to press high. We always want to bring the ball out from the back. But unfortunately, we face teams that have a different approach, which is completely fair for them.”

“Every team should play their style, which is best equipped for playing against us, and it’s shown that we are sometimes struggling with that style,” Slot added.“It’s not always possible for a team to get pace in the game or to get things going if the other team tries to do everything to get that pace out of the game.”

Slot likes his team’s improvement

Slot also mentioned the plans for the remaining season. “When we play more open games this season, we’ve shown that we always want to be part of a game like that, and we’ve done really well. But games where we’ve dropped points had a different look and feel, but that’s not what we wanted it to be, but what was forced on us.”

The manager said: “Now, the next step is making sure that if that playing style is forced on us, we are good enough that we can change that toward the game we want.”

Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup chapter was always going to be complicated, but the picture has just become even more uncomfortable. As Portugal eyes the 2026 tournament with ambition and urgency, one of its World Cup Group K rivals has quietly strengthened its hand. While Ronaldo prepares for one last global campaign, James Rodriguez has chosen a route already taken by Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller, and Son Heung-min; a move that could reshape the competitive balance long before the tournament kicks off.

This is not just a transfer. It is a strategic decision with international consequences. Match fitness, continuity, and leadership are now firmly on Colombia’s side, and the timing could hardly be more inconvenient for Portugal. In fact, James Rodriguez has never lacked talent. What he has lacked in recent seasons is stability, and that is precisely what this move offers.

The Colombian playmaker, who had been without a club after leaving Mexico late last year, has signed a short-term deal with Minnesota United, designed with a single objective in mind: arriving at the 2026 World Cup sharp, healthy, and influential. The contract runs until June 2026, with an option to extend through the end of the season, ensuring regular play during the most critical buildup of his international career.

“The signing will allow Rodriguez to stay match-fit ahead of the 2026 World Cup,” confirmed official club communication, underlining the intent behind the move. At 34, Rodriguez understands the margins. Training alone was not an option. Rotating between short-term projects was not ideal. He needed minutes, responsibility, and rhythm, and he found them in Major League Soccer, following a path increasingly chosen by elite veterans.

What this means for Portugal and Ronaldo

The move marks the thirteenth club of his career, continuing a journey that has taken him through Portugal, Spain, Germany, England, France, South America, and now the United States. “James is a player whose quality, vision, and experience at the highest levels of the game are unquestioned,” said sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad in a statement published by the club. “At the same time, this move is about collective strength — not about putting everything on one individual.”

Rodriguez echoed that sentiment. “I’m very happy for this new chapter in my life,” he said. “I hope to be at my best so I can bring joy to this city and to all of the people who are putting their faith in me.”

This signing is about more than MLS exposure. Rodriguez remains Colombia’s captain, the emotional and tactical leader of a team that reached the Copa America final in 2024 and continues to mature under stable management.

For Portugal, the concern is simple. While the Al-Nassr star prepares for the grand competition at an advanced age, one of his direct rivals now has its leader settled, fit, and central to a project built around him. Colombia’s clarity contrasts sharply with the uncertainty surrounding the Selecao’s long-term structure beyond Ronaldo.

MLS as the new World Cup preparation ground

Once viewed as a retirement league, MLS has evolved into something far more strategic. Lionel Messi’s influence has changed perceptions, and others have followed. Thomas Muller and Son Heung-min have also opted for the league, drawn by its balance between competitiveness and physical management. Rodriguez’s arrival reinforces a growing trend: MLS as a World Cup launchpad rather than a farewell tour.

Last season alone, the league welcomed multiple European stars, while Messi continued to dominate headlines in Florida. For Colombia, this means their captain will be competing weekly, under controlled workloads, in a league that prioritizes athletic conditioning — a significant advantage over sporadic appearances elsewhere.

In recent days, the Saudi Pro League has been under the spotlight following Karim Benzema’s move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal. After making his debut with his new club, the French striker was asked about the circumstances that led to the transfer and delivered an intriguing response.

Just days after the move was confirmed, Benzema made his official debut for Al Hilal. It came in a Matchday 20 clash against Al Akhdoud in the 2025–26 Saudi Pro League season, where the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner showcased his class, scoring a hat trick and leading his team to a dominant 6–0 victory.

During the post-match press conference, shared by Maan Alquiae on X, a reporter asked Benzema about the reasons behind his departure from Al Ittihad. The striker firmly replied, “Talk about the game,” forcing the reporter to change the question.

“It was a nice performance, I feel good with this kind of players, with this team. We play, we fight together, it’s good,” Benzema later said. When another reporter asked whether that meant his teammates at Al Hilal helped him more than those at Al Ittihad, the French star responded irritably: “I didn’t say that. I said I feel good. It’s different.”

Eventually, a question prompted Benzema to address his former club directly. A reporter asked why he had not sent a farewell message to his Al Ittihad teammates, to which Karim responded bluntly: “You know? You don’t know? Ask them,” hinting that the relationship may not have ended on good terms.

With Benzema, Al Hilal look unstoppable

Before Karim Benzema’s arrival, Al Hilal were already the top team in Saudi Arabia. They led the Saudi Pro League standings with a narrow advantage over Al Ahli and Al Nassr, built on an impressive winning streak that allowed them to overtake Cristiano Ronaldo’s team after a dominant start to the season.

The addition of one of the league’s — and the world’s — best strikers appears to have elevated the team even further. In his first match, and with only a handful of training sessions alongside his new teammates, Benzema scored Al Hilal’s first three goals against Al Akhdoud, setting the tone before Malcom and Salem Aldawsari, who scored twice, extended the lead.

That opening performance from the French forward seems to support reports of Cristiano Ronaldo’s frustration upon learning that Al Hilal had signed Benzema. The belief surrounding the Portuguese star is that league leaders Al Hilal would significantly raise their level and gain a major edge in the title race, while Al Nassr were not given the same opportunities to reinforce their squad.

It remains to be seen whether Ronaldo’s frustration will fade in the coming days and lead to his return to action for Al Nassr after missing the last two official matches. Otherwise, CR7’s days in the Saudi Pro League could be numbered — and the dominance of Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal may become even more pronounced.

Cristiano Ronaldo was meant to be the face of a revolution, the standard-bearer for an entire league, and the centerpiece of a long-term vision. Instead, his Saudi adventure has entered a phase few anticipated. What began in euphoria has quietly evolved into tension, mistrust, and now open defiance. Ronaldo’s recent absence from Al-Nassr‘s league fixtures was not accidental, nor was it physical. It was deliberate — and it has placed his future firmly under the global spotlight.

Behind closed doors, frustration has been building. The Portuguese star, long accustomed to projects designed around his competitive instincts, no longer believes the environment suits his ambitions. A boycott, unprecedented in scale, has become a signal rather than a symptom, raising a question that now dominates soccer discourse: if Ronaldo walks away, where does he go next?

The turning point arrived with a decision that reverberated across the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo was left out of two key matches, not through injury, rotation, or tactical choice, but by personal design. The absence was a protest, aimed squarely at the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the entity that oversees the country’s most powerful clubs.

According to multiple reports, the veteran believes PIF has failed to act neutrally, favoring certain projects over others and undermining competitive balance. The breaking point came when Karim Benzema moved from one PIF-backed club to another, strengthening a direct rival while Ronaldo’s own side lagged behind. Despite signing a record-breaking contract extension until June 2027, the 41-year-old ace has reportedly prioritized sporting legacy over financial security, even though his deal remains one of the most lucrative in soccer history.

The clubs finally emerge as speculation explodes

Ronaldo’s next destination, should he leave Saudi Arabia, spans continents, philosophies, and career narratives. One path leads back to where it all began. A return to Sporting Lisbon has been widely discussed, not purely for sporting reasons but for symbolic reasons. Lisbon represents origin, identity, and closure. While the financial hurdles would be significant, the emotional pull is undeniable, and the chance to guide a new generation may outweigh economics.

Europe remains a temptation. A return to Real Madrid has been floated, driven by nostalgia and unfinished business. Ronaldo’s history there is unmatched, but tactical concerns and squad dynamics make such a reunion complex rather than inevitable. Elsewhere, Paris Saint-Germain offers glamour, Champions League ambition, and global reach, though the club’s current youth-focused direction casts doubt on the fit. Manchester United, once home, appears all but ruled out after a turbulent second exit that damaged relationships on both sides.

Another option lies in Major League Soccer, a league increasingly positioned as soccer’s global showcase. With Lionel Messi already reigning the league, the commercial and narrative appeal is enormous. The Times reported that “MLS clubs have begun making early enquiries with Ronaldo’s camp,” though any move would likely require a substantial salary reduction. Possible destinations in the US would be LA Galaxy, LAFC, San Diego FC, Sporting Kansas City, and even Messi’s Inter Miami.

Surprisingly, Wydad Casablanca has also emerged as an outside contender, as per WhoScored. Spanish media previously reported interest from the Moroccan giant, offering the five-time Ballon d’Or winner the chance to conquer African soccer while elevating the club’s global stature. While unconventional, the move would grant leadership, legacy, and a new competitive frontier.

Saudi Arabia stay not entirely ruled out?

Despite the public nature of the protest, a complete Saudi exit is not guaranteed. A switch within the league, particularly to a stronger, trophy-ready project such as Al-Hilal, remains theoretically possible, though politically sensitive. Such a move would risk weakening the impact of Ronaldo’s stance, transforming protest into pragmatism.

Still, it’s safe to say that retirement is not on the table. The 41-year-old forward continues to chase the 1,000-goal milestone, while Portugal heads toward the 2026 World Cup as a contender. National team coach Roberto Martínez recently highlighted “25 goals in his last 30 internationals and more than 220 caps” as proof that the veteran remains decisive.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been under the spotlight this past week like never before since joining the Saudi Pro League in 2022. The Portuguese striker decided to miss Al Nassr’s last two matches, including Friday’s game against Al Ittihad, in protest over certain decisions made by the Public Investment Fund.

In this context, the question was how Al Nassr fans would respond to such an extreme move by CR7. But by the 7th minute of the match against Al Ittihad, that doubt was cleared: thousands of fans at Al-Awwal Park Stadium in Riyadh held up signs featuring the number 7 and Al Nassr’s colors, showing their support for Ronaldo amid the recent controversies.

This is no minor detail. Just a few hours earlier, the Saudi Pro League had issued a strong warning to Ronaldo regarding the ongoing conflicts. “Cristiano has been fully engaged with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s growth and ambition… But no individual — however significant — determines decisions beyond their own club,” a league spokesperson said in a statement released Thursday.

These words could be interpreted as a subtle indication that Ronaldo is placing his own desires above those of the Saudi Pro League, or even above Al Nassr’s best interests, by refusing to play in two key matches. Yet, rather than following that line of reasoning, fans have overwhelmingly sided with the player.

How are Al Nassr coping with Ronaldo’s absence?

Beyond the off-field conflicts, Ronaldo’s absence is a significant blow for Al Nassr on the pitch, considering he is the team’s biggest star. Missing the last two league matches has forced head coach Jorge Jesus to reorganize the lineup to make the team function without CR7.

Ronaldo’s decision to sit out this week coincided with Haroune Camara going on loan to Al Shabab. While Al Nassr bolstered the squad during the January transfer window by signing another center forward, Abdullah Al-Hamdan, the former Al Hilal player has yet to make his official debut.

In this context, Jorge Jesus faced the challenge of improvising the team’s attack. On Monday, he opted to field the three usual offensive stars — Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, and Sadio Mane — while including Abdulrahman Ghareeb, a winger, in place of Ronaldo. The experiment worked well enough for Al Nassr to secure a 1-0 victory.

For Friday’s match against Al Ittihad, the coach changed his approach, adding midfielder Abdullah Al-Khaibari in place of Ghareeb. This adjustment was designed to give the three offensive stars more freedom to make an impact closer to the opponent’s goal.

Inter Miami are nearing the end of preseason and beginning to fine-tune the final details ahead of the start of the 2026 Major League Soccer campaign. In that context, a key teammate of Lionel Messi received welcome news that will allow him to rejoin full team training.

“We’ve been told that Tadeo has received his visa, and I believe he’s getting his passport today. So he should be traveling in the next few hours,” Javier Mascherano said Friday during a press conference ahead of the trip to Ecuador for a friendly against Barcelona of Guayaquil, as shared by journalist Jose Armando on X.

The Inter Miami coach was referring to Tadeo Allende. The forward was one of the standout players for the Herons during the 2025 season, especially in the playoffs, where he scored crucial goals that helped fuel the club’s MLS title run.

After several weeks of speculation, Inter Miami agreed to purchase his transfer rights from Celta Vigo for a fee of around $5 million. Since then, nearly three weeks have passed during which the player was unable to join training sessions with his teammates due to administrative issues.

As a result, Allende missed the first two preseason friendlies against Alianza Lima and Atletico Nacional, and he will also be unavailable this Saturday in Ecuador against Barcelona. However, based on Mascherano’s comments, the expectation is that once the team returns to Florida, Tadeo will be able to resume training with the squad.

Berterame also dealing with administrative issues

Tadeo Allende’s case is not an isolated one. In fact, Inter Miami have faced similar difficulties with two other players on the roster. Micael, a signing brought in from Palmeiras to bolster the defense for the 2026 MLS season, was only able to begin training with his teammates a few days ago due to the same type of administrative delays.

At the moment, German Berterame finds himself in a similar situation. The Argentine striker, who represents Mexico internationally, was acquired by the Herons in a deal valued at around $15 million, but he has not yet been cleared to play for the club on U.S. soil.

“It’s a very strange situation. I mean, we have a player who can’t train with us,” Mascherano said during the same press conference on Friday. “He’s in Miami training on his own, following a plan that we’ve given him.”

Even so, the coach made it clear that Berterame will travel to Ecuador to be part of the friendly against Barcelona. “German will be included in the squad. He can’t train with us, but he will travel to Ecuador because outside the United States he is allowed to play,” Mascherano explained. “We can’t afford to waste time. We need him to be with his teammates to help with his adaptation.”

After Friday morning’s training session in Fort Lauderdale, Inter Miami will fly to Ecuador later in the day, where they will await their match against Barcelona of Guayaquil. The friendly is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. ET at Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name usually defines the buildup to any Saudi Pro League blockbuster, especially when Al-Nassr prepares to face a historic rival like Al-Ittihad. Yet as kickoff approaches at Al-Awwal Park, the spotlight has shifted in an unusual direction. Ronaldo is not expected to feature, leaving Al-Nassr to navigate one of the season’s most important fixtures without its talisman. The absence has raised questions across Saudi soccer, fueling speculation that stretches far beyond team sheets and tactical plans.

Al-Nassr enters the match riding momentum, fully aware that victories at this stage of the campaign can tilt an entire title race. Al-Ittihad arrives with its own pressures, defending pride after a turbulent season that has seen upheaval both on and off the pitch. And somewhere in between stands Ronaldo, present in training, present in headlines, but conspicuously absent on matchday.

The meeting between these two sides is not just another league fixture. It is a defining moment in the Saudi Pro League calendar. Al-Nassr now sits third in the standings with 46 points, but is still chasing the summit and refusing to let the leaders escape. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, occupies sixth place with 34 points, their title defense already unraveling but continental qualification still within reach.

This was supposed to be a night defined by stars. Instead, it has become a night defined by absence. The Portuguese veteran missed the previous league match, but uncertainty lingered. He trained, he traveled, and he was photographed. Still, doubts remained over whether he would step onto the pitch against Al-Ittihad. As hours passed, reports began to align around a single conclusion: Cristiano Ronaldo would not play again.

The reason for Ronaldo’s absence revealed

The truth emerged in the days leading up to kickoff. According to multiple reports, Ronaldo’s absence is not related to injury, but rather to an escalating standoff behind the scenes.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo is deliberately sitting out matches as a form of protest. The Portuguese star is said to be unhappy with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Nassr alongside several domestic rivals. His frustration centers on what he perceives as unequal investment, particularly during the January transfer window.

While Al-Nassr faced restrictions, Al-Hilal was able to strengthen significantly, including the headline-grabbing arrival of Karim Benzema. That contrast has not gone unnoticed by Ronaldo. “Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr,” Romano reported. “His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs.” The message is clear: this is not a soccer decision, but a political one.

Solidarity inside the dressing room

The situation has reportedly created ripples within the club. Portuguese head coach Jorge Jesus has stood firmly behind his captain, even boycotting press conferences in apparent solidarity. Efforts to persuade Ronaldo to reconsider his stance have failed.

As reported by Al-Riyadiyah, “all attempts to secure Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation against Al-Ittihad have failed.” The same source added that the 41-year-old’s frustration also stems from a lack of winter signings and internal restructuring that limited the influence of his trusted administrative circle.

As Al-Nassr prepares to host Al-Ittihad under the lights at Al-Awwal Park, the Saudi Pro League once again finds itself revolving around Cristiano Ronaldo. Every major fixture in the league seems to bend toward his presence, or, increasingly, his absence. This clash carries layers of intrigue that go far beyond form, tactics, or rivalry.

For Al-Nassr, this match represents an opportunity to tighten the title race. For Al-Ittihad, it is a chance to salvage pride in a season that has drifted away from expectations. But hovering above everything is a single unresolved storyline — one that has quietly become the most talked-about issue in Saudi soccer.

On paper, the knight of Najd arrives as the form side. After 19 league matches, the club sits third in the table with 46 points, four points behind leader Al-Hilal. A difficult start to the year has given way to renewed confidence, with five consecutive league wins pushing Al-Nassr firmly back into contention. The attack has been ruthless, producing 49 goals, the best tally in the division.

Al-Ittihad’s campaign has followed a very different arc. The reigning champion sits sixth with 34 points, already 10 points off the top three. Consistency has been elusive, even though recent results show signs of recovery. A narrow win over Al-Najma kept the club unbeaten in three matches, but the sense of instability remains, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.

The rivalry itself adds extra weight. Al-Ittihad eliminated Al-Nassr from the King’s Cup earlier in the season, a result that still lingers. Meanwhile, confirmed lineups point to strong selections on both sides. Jorge Jesus will lean on Bento in goal, with a back line built around experience and physicality, while Joao Felix and Sadio Mane carry the creative burden in attack.

Sergio Conceicao, on the other hand, counters with Predrag Rajkovic, a robust midfield led by Fabinho, and pace on the wings through Moussa Diaby. Yet despite the tactical previews and statistical breakdowns, everything circles back to a single uncertainty.

Will Ronaldo play?

Midway through preparations, clarity finally emerged. Cristiano Ronaldo will not play. Multiple reports have confirmed that the Portuguese forward will miss a second consecutive league match, despite not being injured. According to Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo’s absence is a deliberate protest aimed at the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which oversees several top clubs in the league.

“Ronaldo is unhappy with the lack of investment in Al-Nassr, especially when compared to rivals,” Romano reported, noting that the forward was particularly frustrated by Al-Hilal’s winter signings, including the high-profile arrival of Karim Benzema.

ESPN echoed those claims, stating that Ronaldo even attempted to block Benzema’s move, viewing it as a distortion of competitive balance. Meanwhile, A Bola added that internal changes at Al-Nassr, including the reduced influence of executives close to Ronaldo, have intensified the standoff. Despite turning 41 years old, the Portuguese continues to train normally. Thus, his absence is symbolic rather than physical.

Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad: Confirmed lineups

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-4-3): Bento; Sultan, Martinez, Simakan, Amri; Angelo, Khaibari, Brozovic; Mane, Coman, Felix.

Al-Ittihad confirmed XI (4-3-3): Rajkovic; Shanqeeti, Pereira, Kadesh, Mitaj; Al-Julaydan, Fabinho, Doumbia; Diaby, Aouar, En-Nesyri.

Match Overview

Al Nassr enter this showdown with everything still to play for, balancing championship aspirations against a backdrop of unanswered questions. A strong showing in the last round kept them within a single point of the league lead, but the spotlight remains firmly on the club after Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from the previous match, fueling speculation about internal issues.

On the other side, Al Ittihad arrive sitting sixth on 34 points, viewing this matchup as a prime opportunity to close the gap on the teams above them and reassert themselves as contenders. With title implications and pride on the line, this clash has all the ingredients of a must-watch contest—make sure you don’t miss it.

Lamine Yamal opened 2026 in strong form, not only lifting the Spanish Super Cup but also extending a scoring run that could mark the most productive goalscoring season of his young career at FC Barcelona. With his current form, the Spanish prodigy has reached a goalscoring milestone at the club that had last been achieved by Lionel Messi.

Already cementing his legacy in just his fourth professional season at only 18 years old, Yamal recently matched Diego Maradona’s Barcelona scoring mark with a goal against Elche. But his latest strike in the Copa del Rey win over Albacete did more than place him alongside one Argentine legend—it also tied him with another.

By opening the scoring in Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Albacete, Yamal found the net in four consecutive matches across three different competitions. Showing consistency against varied opponents and in different contexts, the last Barcelona player to achieve that feat was not a current squad member, but club icon Lionel Messi.

Yamal’s scoring run began on January 25 with a goal against Real Oviedo in a 3-0 La Liga win, followed by a strike (and an assist) against Copenhagen in the UEFA Champions League. He then scored again in league play versus Elche before capping the streak against Albacete in the Copa del Rey on February 3. In a span of just nine days, the winger recorded four goals and one assist across four matches.

Despite missing time earlier in the season due to pubalgia, Yamal has not lost momentum and remains on pace for his most productive campaign in front of goal. Last season (his best to date) he posted 18 goals and 21 assists in 55 appearances. In the 2025-26 season, he already has 14 goals and 12 assists in 29 matches, a remarkable rate that puts his personal best well within reach.

Messi’s longest goalscoring streak

Lionel Messi authored a singular legacy at Barcelona, highlighted by record-breaking goal totals, including the most goals in a single calendar year and the most goals in club history. While Yamal remains far from those benchmarks, his current run places him roughly halfway toward Messi’s longest consecutive scoring streak.

According to Transfermarkt, Messi’s longest streak of scoring in consecutive matches reached 10 games. Beginning on December 9, 2012, against Real Betis, Messi scored in seven La Liga matches and three Copa del Rey games, with the streak ending in the Copa del Rey semifinal first leg against Real Madrid on January 30.

Across three different competitions, Messi’s streak extended to nine matches, or even 10 when including a friendly with Argentina against Brazil. During a separate run in 2010 with Barcelona, Messi scored in five consecutive La Liga matches (netting 10 goals) along with three Champions League games and one Copa del Rey appearance.

Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid fell short of securing direct qualification to the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 and are now headed for the newly introduced playoff round. After slipping into the playoff zone, the French superstar has now been dealt an additional setback, as UEFA handed down a heavy suspension to one of his key teammates ahead of the decisive ties.

On Matchday 8 of the Champions League, Real Madrid dropped from third to ninth in the standings following Benfica’s dramatic 4-2 victory, sealed by an unlikely stoppage-time goal from the goalkeeper. With Benfica finishing 24th overall, the two sides are set to meet again in the knockout phase, though Los Blancos will do so without a crucial attacking option.

Following UEFA’s disciplinary ruling, Rodrygo Goes has been suspended for two matches after receiving a red card against Benfica, ruling him out of the entire playoff series. The Brazilian forward was sent off after protesting referee Davide Massa’s decisions, picking up two yellow cards in less than a minute.

Although the dismissal stemmed from two cautions, UEFA’s disciplinary committee upgraded the punishment to a two-game ban by invoking the article covering “insults or abusive language toward the officiating team,” extending Rodrygo’s absence beyond the standard one-match suspension.

Rodrygo addressed the incident the following day on social media, issuing a public apology: “Yesterday I let myself get carried away in the moment when I complained about time-wasting. That’s not who I am. I had never been sent off playing for Real Madrid, and I am aware of the consequences. I apologize to the fans, the club, my teammates, and the coach. We will stay united and keep fighting for this badge and for this Champions League!“

The first leg against Benfica will be played on February 17 at Estádio da Luz, with the return leg scheduled for February 25 at the Santiago Bernabéu. After an uneven group-stage campaign, Real Madrid now face an even steeper challenge as they attempt to keep their Champions League hopes alive.

Rodrygo isn’t the only absence

With head coach Alvaro Arbeloa under pressure to steady the ship, having a full squad available would have been crucial to avoiding another setback in Europe, specially following the shocking Copa del Rey elimination against Albacete. Instead, Real Madrid will be forced to navigate the playoff round significantly shorthanded.

Jude Bellingham will also miss the series after suffering an injury in the club’s most recent match against Rayo Vallecano. Medical tests revealed damage to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg, sidelining the English midfielder until early March and compounding Real Madrid’s problems at a critical stage of the season.

Lionel Messi has begun preparations for the 2026 MLS season with the World Cup also on the horizon, as Inter Miami continues to reshape its roster following the most active transfer window in club history. With the winter window still open, the Herons have reportedly reignited talks to secure the signing of an Argentine key player who was part of the club’s 2025 MLS Cup–winning squad.

With Sergio Busquets replaced by David Ayala and the additions of Germán Berterame and Dayne St. Clair, Inter Miami have significantly reinforced the core of the team, finding balance after several departures at the end of last season. However, one of the flaws exposed during the last two friendlies was the team’s difficulty progressing the ball from defense to attack, lacking a fundamental creative presence in midfield.

According to Argentine outlet TyC Sports, Inter Miami have resumed negotiations to bring Baltasar Rodríguez back to the club. The MLS side recently submitted a counteroffer of $4.5 million to Racing Club, but talks stalled at the time. Now, the Herons are once again pushing to finalize the midfielder’s signing.

After joining Inter Miami on a one-year loan and initially struggling with injuries, Rodríguez established himself as a regular starter late in the 2025 season. He played a key role in the MLS Cup run, finishing the campaign with 22 appearances, three goals, and three assists. The midfielder returned to Racing Club for preseason training in Paraguay after Inter Miami opted not to trigger his purchase option.

Inter Miami reopened negotiations once the buy clause expired, forcing both clubs back to the table. In January, the Herons reportedly reached personal terms with the 22-year-old but failed to agree with Racing. Now, a deal valued at around $5 million is expected to be completed, which would see Rodríguez reunite with Messi’s squad.

In the first two preseason matches against Alianza Lima and Atlético Nacional, Inter Miami dominated possession but struggled to generate penetration in the final third. With Telasco Segovia still short of his early-2025 form following injury, Rodríguez’s return as a left-sided midfielder could provide both depth and a familiar tactical piece from the MLS Cup–winning side.

Could Inter Miami secure Rodríguez’s signing?

Racing Club are currently undergoing their own squad rebuild, particularly in midfield. Agustín Almendra has joined Liga MX side Necaxa, while top prospect Juan Nardoni is expected to move to Brazilian club Grêmio in a deal worth around $10 million. While those changes could open opportunities for Rodríguez, his role has remained limited.

With the Argentine Primera División already underway, Rodríguez has appeared as a substitute in two of Racing’s first three matches, totaling just 49 minutes of action. If head coach Javier Mascherano maintains the role Rodríguez held late last season, the midfielder would likely return as a regular starter alongside Messi, making a convincing offer enough for Inter Miami to bring back a key contributor from its 2025 MLS Cup triumph.

Christian Pulisic did not step onto the pitch on Tuesday night against Bologna, yet his name still found its way into a chapter of Milan’s modern history. As the American continues to battle physical setbacks, the club pressed forward regardless, delivering another authoritative performance that quietly pushed them into rare European territory. What unfolded at the Dall’Ara was not just another away win or another clean sheet, but a night that subtly reshaped the narrative of Milan’s 2025-26 campaign.

The absence of Pulisic, dealing with bursitis near his hip, forced Massimiliano Allegri to improvise once more. And yet, even without one of their most decisive players, Milan moved with the confidence of a side that knows exactly where it is headed.

Milan’s 3-0 victory away at Bologna felt clinical, composed, and deeply symbolic. Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring in the 20th minute after intelligent work from Adrien Rabiot, setting the tone early. Christopher Nkunku doubled the advantage from the penalty spot, before Rabiot himself sealed the win shortly after the break with a left-footed finish that underlined his growing influence.

Few moments capture the transformation of the Rossoneri this season better than the arrival of Adrien Rabiot. Signed permanently this summer, the French midfielder has become the heartbeat of the team. Since his arrival, Milan has not lost a single league match, a fact that now feels impossible to separate from his presence.

His contribution against the Rossoblu—one assist and one goal—only told part of the story. The real statement came moments after Loftus-Cheek scored, when the Frenchman immediately embraced Nkunku, who had earlier missed a clear chance. It was leadership in its purest form, the kind that rarely shows up on stat sheets.

The record finally revealed

Only in the middle of this journey does the scale of Milan’s achievement fully reveal itself. With the win in Bologna, Milan extended its unbeaten run to 22 consecutive matches, a sequence unmatched anywhere else in Europe’s top leagues during the 2025-26 season.

Massimiliano Allegri’s players now boast the longest active unbeaten streak in Europe, standing alone above sides such as Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. It is the club’s longest single-season unbeaten run since the legendary 1992-93 campaign under Fabio Capello, when the Rossoneri reached 23 matches without defeat. The comparison is unavoidable, but Allegri’s Milan remains a different beast. This is not yet a finished superpower, but rather a team growing into one.

How Pulisic contributed to the record

The broader picture is just as striking. Milan has reached 50 points by matchday 23, something achieved only twice before in the three-points-for-a-win era. The Red and Blacks are already 15 points better off than last season, sitting comfortably clear of fifth place and steadily tightening their grip on a Champions League return.

Away from home, the record is even more impressive. The club remains unbeaten in its first 12 away league matches, a feat not seen since Serie A returned to a 20-team format in 2004-05. Only Bayern Munich can match that consistency across Europe’s major leagues.

Even while sidelined, Christian Pulisic remains central to the story. Milan’s top scorer with 10 goals in all competitions, the American has battled hamstring problems and now bursitis, limiting him to just three starts in the last six league games.

Christian Pulisic is once again at the center of Italian soccer’s most unforgiving conversation. With Fabio Capello already weighing in, another Milan legend has now stepped forward, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the American’s difficult start to 2026. As Milan navigates a decisive phase of the season, pressure is mounting, not just on the team but on the individual expected to carry it. And when voices like Capello and Alessandro Costacurta speak, the message tends to echo far beyond a single weekend.

This is not unfamiliar territory for Pulisic. From Dortmund to Chelsea and now Milan, expectation has followed him relentlessly. What has changed is the tone. What was once admiration is now conditional, and patience is thinning as the club’s title ambitions face subtle but real threats.

Every January seems to reopen the same chapter. Christian Pulisic hits a stretch where the conversation shifts—from how good he can be to why he isn’t showing it. The Rossoneri, meanwhile, have drifted into a pattern that rarely wins championships: too many draws, not enough decisive moments, and missed opportunities against teams they should be beating.

The numbers tell the story. Pulisic has not scored since December 28 and has not registered an assist since November 23. Milan has lost just once all season, yet eight draws have eroded its margin, leaving it five points behind Inter with 16 matches to play. In a title race that tight, stars must tip games. That burden falls squarely on Pulisic, and that is where the debate intensifies.

What did Costacurta say?

Only midway through the discussion does the latest criticism emerge, and it comes from a figure whose words carry historical weight. Speaking live on Sky Italia’s Calciomercato L’Originale, Alessandro Costacurta turned his attention to Milan’s attacking unit of Pulisic, Rafael Leao, and Christopher Nkunku after a quiet winter transfer and a depleted squad.

“Milan must wait for those three or four players to improve their performance, especially in attack,” Costacurta said. “I’m talking about Rafa Leao, but also Christian Pulisic, who started well but is not feeling well now.”

The verdict was blunt but calculated. The five-time Champions League winner did not question Pulisic’s talent. Instead, he placed responsibility squarely on the player to raise his level, particularly in moments when the team needs individual quality to break deadlocks. “Nkunku also needs to give a little more,” he added. “I think Milan are hoping the players up front improve their individual performances.” This was not outrage, but expectation.

Capello set the tone earlier

Costacurta’s comments did not arrive in a vacuum. Days earlier, Fabio Capello had already opened the door to criticism following Milan’s frustrating draw against Fiorentina. Writing for La Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello focused on missed chances and a lack of ruthlessness—particularly from the American star. “Pulisic did everything thanks to Füllkrug,” Capello wrote. “The attacking duo created two or three chances out of nothing, but the American uncharacteristically missed them all.”

Then came the line that defined the discussion: “Mistakes uncharacteristic of him, like when he tried to beat De Gea instead of shooting… in that space, only Ronaldo Nazário could have beaten the goalkeeper and scored.” It was not mockery. It was a reminder of limits, and of how thin the margin is between brilliance and waste at the highest level.

Pep Guardiola has been in the news recently with statements complaining about the narrative of Manchester City’s spending, claiming other English clubs invested even more. Now he’s seeking a rule exception for an upcoming match.

What the manager wants is for the club to present a letter so he can include Marc Guehi in the lineup for the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal on March 22 at Wembley Stadium.

The Spanish manager said: “I told the club we must ask. Hopefully we can convince them that Marc can play in the final. I don’t understand why he cannot play in the final. Hopefully we make a letter. You buy a player for a lot of money, and he is not able to play for a rule I don’t understand. Hopefully they can change it.”

The rule that Guardiola wants to change

With injuries piling up in Manchester City’s defense, the club moved for a player they had tracked for some time. However, because Guehi already played for Crystal Palace in the competition, Guardiola faces a regulatory obstacle.

This season the Carabao Cup rules were modified slightly on player eligibility. Previously, players could represent only one club during the competition. The rule states that a player can only represent a second club if he joins that team before the first leg of the semifinals is played, according to The Guardian. With Guehi arriving on January 19, that condition was not met, as Manchester City had already played and taken a 2-0 lead over Newcastle.

Guehi’s transfer from Crystal Palace

The defender was a target for many top clubs in last summer’s transfer market, with Crystal Palace facing the prospect of losing him for free at the end of his contract. Palace ultimately sold him this January rather than risk losing him for nothing.

Manchester City paid £20 million (roughly $27 million) for him as injuries forced them into the market. Among the defenders currently unavailable for Guardiola are Josko Gvardiol and John Stones, while Nathan Ake has also missed time.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the center of controversy after sitting out Al Nassr’s last match in what was widely interpreted as a protest against Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) over a lack of transfer activity during the winter window. Now, not only have those claims been dismissed, but Ronaldo has also received a firm warning from the Saudi Pro League in its latest statement.

As the face of the league, Ronaldo reportedly chose to make his stance clear by withdrawing from the lineup, first against Al Riyadh and potentially again for the upcoming clash with Al Ittihad. The situation has sparked significant turmoil, with speculation growing over whether the Portuguese star could consider a summer departure.

The SPL responded forcefully, downplaying the role of the PIF in day-to-day football operations. In a statement released Thursday, a league spokesperson emphasized the league’s structure: “The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: every club operates independently under the same rules.“

Despite the PIF holding majority stakes in four of Saudi Arabia’s biggest clubs (Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli) the league stressed that decision-making authority rests with each team. “Clubs have their own boards, their own executives and their own football leadership. Decisions on recruitment, spending and strategy sit with those clubs, within a financial framework designed to ensure sustainability and competitive balance. That framework applies equally across the league,” the statement read.

The statement also addressed Ronaldo directly, while taking a clear stance on his reported boycott: “Cristiano has been fully engaged with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s growth and ambition. Like any elite competitor, he wants to win. But no individual — however significant — determines decisions beyond their own club.

Claims over transfer activity dismissed

Al Hilal were the most active club during the 2026 winter transfer window, loaning out João Cancelo (FC Barcelona) and Kaio César (Corinthians), while completing the signings of prospects Kader Meïté (€30 million) and Saïmon Bouabré (€23 million). Late-window reports linking Karim Benzema to a move also fueled Ronaldo’s frustration, though the deal ultimately went through despite his objections.

While Al Nassr did not complete a single international signing, the SPL addressed accusations of unequal treatment head-on: “Recent transfer activity demonstrates that independence clearly. One club strengthened in a particular way. Another chose a different approach. Those were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters.“

The league also pointed to the standings as evidence of competitive balance. “The competitiveness of the league speaks for itself. With only a few points separating the top four, the title race is very much alive. That level of balance reflects a system that is working as intended,” the statement detailed, with Al Nassr sitting in 3rd with 46 points, 4 afar from Al Hilal who have one more game.

“The focus remains on football — on the pitch, where it belongs — and on maintaining a credible, competitive competition for players and fans,” the statement concluded. As Ronaldo weighs the possibility of missing a second straight match, league officials appear unmoved, making clear their position as tensions continue to simmer.

Barcelona and Real Madrid differ clearly in nearly every category. How those clubs are run is one difference. Their playing styles also contrast, and a recent opponent pointed that out.

Javi Moreno plays for Spanish second division club Albacete, which shocked Real Madrid a few weeks ago in the Copa del Rey before losing to Barcelona. Moreno offered an interesting insight into what he saw on the field.

The defender said: “Against Barcelona there is more order than with Real Madrid, who are more anarchic. That may also help you because they are more predictable. We knew about the number of passes they launch from Lamine Yamal‘s zone to Marcus Rashford. You know their resources, but their passes are millimetric.”

Barcelona’s next chapter in Copa del Rey

The epic run that began when Albacete upset Real Madrid in Álvaro Arbeloa’s first match as manager helped clear the path for Barcelona. That recent match put Barcelona into the semifinals after a 2-1 win, boosted by goals from Yamal and Ronald Araújo before Moreno pulled one back.

Wednesday produced two teams ready for the final four clubs still chasing glory. Real Sociedad earned a road victory over Alaves, while Athletic Bilbao followed the same path with a win away to Valencia. The final spot will be for Atletico Madrid, who beat Real Betis.

For now there is no confirmed rival for Barcelona. The remaining four teams will be placed in a draw on Friday at the headquarters of the Royal Spanish Football Federation in Las Rozas.

Barcelona looks for more history

Barcelona is one of the clubs with the most titles in the world. They have been prominent in many competitions, with the Copa del Rey being their favorite. If they win the title, they would add one to their 32 crowns.

It’s a similar story with Athletic Club. The Bilbao club ranks just behind Barcelona on the list of clubs with the most titles with 24. Atletico Madrid is chasing their 11th title of this kind. For Real Sociedad, it would be their third.

Lionel Messi is indisputably the most important player in Barcelona’s history. That is evident in the fact that, despite leaving the club nearly five years ago, his name continues to be relevant in the club’s day-to-day discussions. With the presidential elections drawing closer, the role of the Argentine forward could be decisive, although he reportedly has a clear position.

“Messi does not want to enter this electoral process by supporting anyone,” Marca reported on Thursday. “The Argentine would carry a large number of votes if he publicly backed one of the candidates. However, that will not happen. As of today, Messi has no intention of getting involved in the process. His idea is to remain completely on the sidelines, without supporting anyone.”

Indeed, Messi’s influence at Barcelona is so significant that a public stance ahead of the vote could tilt the balance in favor of one candidate or another. In fact, he did something similar in 2021, when he openly supported the victory of Joan Laporta, who had been club president during the early years of his professional career.

Laporta ultimately won that election with 54 percent of the vote, but his relationship with Messi was far from smooth. Just months later, and despite campaign promises, the club chose not to renew the Argentine forward’s contract due to financial issues, forcing him to leave for Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi’s plans regarding Barcelona

Messi’s decision to stay out of Barcelona’s presidential election does not mean he lacks interest in the club’s future. On the contrary, reports suggest that sooner rather than later, he plans to return to Barcelona, although his role has not yet been defined.

“Messi intends to return to the club in the future. His return is fully decided, but it will not happen during this election,” Marca reported. “He will wait to see how it concludes and, from that point on, and once the World Cup is over, he will begin to think about his return to Barcelona.”

What Barcelona’s presidential candidates have said about Messi

Unsurprisingly, Messi’s name has featured prominently in debates among Barcelona’s presidential candidates. Opposition candidates, in particular, have emphasized that it was Joan Laporta who closed the door on the forward in the past.

“We have to embrace Leo Messi and do everything possible so that, as soon as possible, he has the role at Barca that he wants and that all fans would be excited about,” Victor Font said in November. “When I win the election, the first thing will be to pick up the phone and call him.”

Along the same lines, Marc Ciria said weeks later: “We want our legends to be able to return to the club. We will do everything possible to make that happen. Messi is an indispensable figure for this club. He must return with a strong support system and a solid structure.”

Finally, Laporta has been the most cautious when discussing a potential return for the Argentine star. “Out of respect for everyone, it is not realistic to talk about Leo Messi returning as a player. Speculating about a possible comeback is not appropriate,” said Barcelona’s current president.

While Endrick arrived at Real Madrid as a highly touted young prospect, he experienced a heavily criticized spell with the club. With only a marginal role in the squad, the Brazilian was sent out on loan to Olympique Lyon. Far from being a step backward, he managed to establish himself as a star with the team, standing out both as a scorer and a creator. As a result, he has been compared to Karim Benzema, prompting him to break his silence and make his stance clear.

Endrick has managed to recover his best form on loan at Olympique Lyon, but he has chosen to remain very cautious when it comes to comparisons with Benzema: “Being compared to him is very good for me because he is a great player and has been the best in the world… Karim is far above me and I hope things go very well for him at Al-Hilal. I am very happy to be here (Lyon), where Karim played,” he said after the latest game.

Although Endrick has chosen to keep some distance from the French legend, the similarities in their playing styles are quite evident. Upon his arrival in Lyon, the Brazilian spoke about that resemblance: “I’m a number nine with the soul of a ten. I’ve admired Benzema since he played at Olympique Lyon… his style of play inspires me a lot.” With much still to prove, his impact on the French team already excites all the fans.

Just one month after his arrival at Olympique Lyon, Endrick has firmly established himself as a key starter under coach Paulo Fonseca. Capitalizing on his strong game awareness and tactical understanding, the Brazilian makes a significant impact both as a scorer and a creator, proving essential to the team’s collective play. In his first five games, he has scored five goals, showcasing his impressive talent.

Endrick may face an uphill battle for Real Madrid’s starting lineup

Recognizing his great potential, Real Madrid decided not to transfer Endrick, but instead to loan him to Olympique Lyon until the end of the season. There, the Brazilian has managed to prove that he has the talent to shine for many years with the Spanish side. However, securing a starting role at Los Blancos may not be easy for him, even if he puts together an outstanding season and/or stands out at the 2026 World Cup with Brazil.

With Kylian Mbappé as Real Madrid’s undisputed starting center forward, Endrick would have very few chances of taking the spot from the Frenchman, who is the cornerstone of the team and its top scorer. While they could theoretically play together as an attacking duo, that role is currently occupied by Vinícius Jr., effectively cutting off that possibility. For this reason, the 19-year-old striker could be forced to accept a substitute role, with limited minutes.

For the first time in days, Cristiano Ronaldo has reason to look ahead rather than sideways. Amid speculation, tension, and a title race balanced on a knife-edge, Al-Nassr has quietly completed a move that could reshape the short-term picture, and possibly the long-term one too. Official approval has arrived, paperwork has cleared, and a new Saudi international has walked through the doors. What remains unanswered is the one question everyone is asking ahead of one of the season’s biggest fixtures.

The timing is no coincidence. With a Clasico looming and pressure mounting both on and off the pitch, Al-Nassr’s latest development lands at a moment when margins matter, and depth could decide everything.

On Tuesday, Al-Nassr officially unveiled Abdullah Al-Hamdan as a new player, completing his signing on a free transfer following the early termination of his contract with rival Al-Hilal. The 26-year-old Saudi striker finalized his deal on Monday evening before undergoing a medical examination and joining group training.

The club wasted no time in celebrating the arrival. Through its official platforms, the Knight of Najd welcomed the striker and wished him “brilliance and success” in the yellow jersey, a message that quickly resonated with supporters. His unveiling images reportedly drew nearly 1.5 million views in under two hours, underlining the excitement surrounding the move.

Al-Hamdan brings a pedigree with him. A Saudi Arabia international with over 40 caps and 10 goals, he has long been considered one of the country’s most reliable domestic forwards, a profile Al-Nassr has been keen to reinforce as it pushes on multiple fronts.

Why Al-Hamdan matters now amid Ronaldo’s saga

This is not a signing for optics alone. Al-Nassr reportedly views Al-Hamdan as a key addition to the attacking line, offering local depth, tactical flexibility, and experience in high-pressure matches. With domestic and continental ambitions still alive, the club has prioritized balance rather than marquee headlines.

There is also an unspoken subtext. With ongoing uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo’s future beyond the 2026 World Cup, some reports have framed Al-Hamdan as a rotation option, or even a long-term contingency. According to ESPN Brazil and Portuguese outlets, Ronaldo has been frustrated by unmet conditions tied to league and PIF management, with speculation suggesting a possible summer exit tied to a reported $59 million release clause.

For now, the Portuguese remains present in training, and some sources have dismissed the noise as exaggerated—still, Al-Nassr’s recruitment hints at a club planning ahead rather than reacting late.

Will Al-Hamdan be able to feature against Al-Ittihad?

Speculation intensified when Al-Hamdan was spotted fully participating in group training after completing all contractual and financial formalities. His sharp involvement only fueled anticipation ahead of Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad, one of the most high-profile fixtures in Saudi soccer.

According to Al-Riyadiyah, Al-Nassr has received official approval from the Saudi Football Federation’s Professionalism Committee to register Abdullah Al-Hamdan until 2030. All administrative procedures have been completed, making the striker legally and technically eligible for the upcoming clash.

This means Al-Hamdan is available for selection against Al-Ittihad, scheduled for Friday at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. Whether he starts or appears from the bench will be Jorge Jesus’ call, but the option now exists, and that alone changes the dynamic.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s season in Saudi Arabia was supposed to be defined by records, goals, and silverware. Instead, as the Saudi Pro League reaches a critical phase, frustration has begun to overshadow brilliance. The Portuguese icon, still central to Al-Nassr’s identity and ambitions, finds himself watching from the sidelines once again. However, with every missed match, the chase for individual glory grows more complicated.

For a player who measures time in goals and milestones, absence carries consequences. While the Portuguese superstar remains one of the league’s most feared finishers, recent events have shifted the narrative away from dominance and toward tension, protest, and uncertainty.

Ronaldo is set to boycott a second successive Saudi Pro League match, a decision that sources say stems from growing dissatisfaction with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) and its handling of Al-Nassr. According to ESPN, the forward deliberately sat out the club’s 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh, despite being fit and available. “Cristiano Ronaldo is set to boycott his second-straight Saudi Pro League match amid frustrations with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund,” both ESPN and Fabrizio Romano confirmed.

The boycott is not due to injury or fitness concerns. Instead, it reflects the 41-year-old’s belief that Al-Nassr has been weakened by internal interference, particularly during the most recent transfer window. His frustration intensified after senior figures within the club, sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo, were suspended by PIF, a move that coincided with reduced spending and stalled recruitment.

Stark contrast with a title rival

While Al-Nassr struggled to reinforce, the situation elsewhere painted a very different picture. ESPN adds that Al-Hilal received a major financial injection from Saudi businessman Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, allowing the club to significantly strengthen its squad. “All of Al-Hilal’s signings in this window were funded by Prince Alwaleed,” ESPN‘s sources revealed, noting that the prince controls 25% ownership, with the remaining stake held by PIF.

The failed attempt to redirect Karim Benzema away from a rival, a move Ronaldo reportedly tried to block, became a breaking point. Ronaldo allegedly viewed the transfer outcome as deliberately tilting the title race, deepening his sense of injustice.

Another absence takes its toll

Despite the standoff, Ronaldo has continued to train normally and even posted images of himself in Al-Nassr colors. However, internally, he has communicated clear conditions for his return. As reported, “his comeback depends on the quick reactivation of the club’s management powers and an end to external interference in transfer decisions.”

While politics and protest dominate headlines, the sporting consequences are already visible. Cristiano Ronaldo last scored on January 30, opening the scoring in a 3-0 win over Al-Kholood. Since then, his absence has stalled his momentum and allowed another striker to quietly move ahead. That striker is Ivan Toney.

The English forward struck again on Thursday as Al-Ahli defeated Al-Hazem 2-0, scoring his 19th league goal and pushing his club into second place, leapfrogging Al-Nassr. According to official data, Toney has now edged ahead in the Golden Boot race, capitalizing on Ronaldo’s absence at a decisive moment.

The 29-year-old now leads the scoring charts with 19 goals, while Ronaldo follows closely with 17 goals from 18 matches. The gap remains narrow, but time and minutes are becoming precious.

Arsenal has many players capable of playing in top clubs in the world. One of them is Martín Zubimendi, the midfielder who was a target for Real Madrid in the most recent transfer market at the request of former manager Xabi Alonso.

The ex Real Sociedad star moved to England partly because Florentino Pérez believed Alonso didn’t need more midfielders. However, that area of the field is the current biggest weakness. This made fans return to the idea of signing Zubimendi, who spoke about that possibility on the Spanish TV show “El Larguero.”

Zubimendi shut the door on a potential move, explaining his view with a humble response. “I don’t think they need me. The truth is Real Madrid has enough players to do it right, so no.”

Zubimendi’s transfer to Arsenal and his statistics

Real Madrid has grown used to signing star players on free transfers in recent years. That may have played a role in viewing Zubimendi’s price as too high. The player was interested in joining the Spanish giants, but Arsenal signed him for €70 million (more than $80 million).

That fee for a central midfielder could be seen as an overpay by some, but that argument has been challenged by Arsenal’s solidity in the Premier League, where the team has shown balance and control.

Zubimendi quickly became a key piece for Mikel Arteta. The midfielder has played 24 Premier League matches with four goals, and his influence goes beyond the numbers, a level of performance that many Real Madrid fans may wish they had in their own squad.

Zubimendi’s Champions League favorites

Arsenal was the clear best team in the league phase of the competition. With a perfect record in eight matches, they remain favorites, but Zubimendi doesn’t rule out the Spanish clubs.

“The qualifying was good, but it’s about winning it. Anything can happen in the Champions League,” the Arsenal player said in the same interview. “You can’t discard the Spanish teams. Barcelona reached the semifinals last year, Real Madrid is Real Madrid, and Atlético have great players too.”

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have faced significant defensive challenges, with David Alaba, Éder Militão, and Antonio Rüdiger missing a considerable number of matches due to injuries. As a result, Kylian Mbappé’s team has been linked to several defenders for the upcoming season. Although a Premier League star was previously ruled out as a free agent, the Spanish are now reportedly reconsidering his arrival under one condition.

According to Rodra of ESPN, Real Madrid are determined to pursue the signing of a new center-back for the 2026–27 season. As a result, they could once again consider the arrival of Ibrahima Konaté as a free agent. However, Los Blancos are said to have set a key condition: The Frenchman must lower his hefty salary demands, something that reportedly prevented an agreement in recent weeks.

While Konaté has been one of Liverpool’s best players in recent years, the Frenchman has disappointed many fans with his level this season. He has not only shown worrying lapses in concentration, but has also made several mistakes in one-on-one situations. Because of this, his potential move to Real Madrid does not fully convince everyone, especially as the possible departures of David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger would require a defender who is in peak form.

Having already signed Jérémy Jacquet for €63.60 million, Ibrahima Konaté’s tenure at Anfield appears set to close at the end of the 2025-26 season. Unlike a few weeks ago, the Frenchman does not have multiple options to join another club as a free agent due to his reportedly high salary demands. Consequently, Konaté might need to accept different terms to join Real Madrid, as a return to the Reds seems unlikely.

Report: Real Madrid also chase two other defenders, not just Konate

While Ibrahima Konaté could reportedly be included once again among Real Madrid’s potential targets, he is supposedly not the priority. Not only have his high salary but also his inconsistent performances at Liverpool raised doubts within the Spanish side. As a result, they have reportedly turned their attention to two other defenders ahead of the 2026–27 season, who generate far greater consensus.

Both Nico Schlotterbeck and Castello Lukeba have emerged as the best-positioned players thanks to reports from Juni Calafat’s scouting team, according to Rodra on ESPN. Unlike the Frenchman, both defenders could be involved in million-dollar transfers, as they have valid contracts with their teams. However, they are in top form and could bring more security to Real Madrid. In fact, the German defender is reportedly the Spanish side’s top priority.

In recent months, the eternal rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid has been embodied by two names: Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe. They are the main stars of their respective teams and both wear the No. 10 shirt, placing them at the center of fan debates surrounding the two clubs. The young Spanish winger holds a clear edge in one specific La Liga ranking.

In the current 2025-26 season, Yamal is the player with the most dribbles attempted and completed in La Liga. Across the 22 matches played in the competition so far, he has attempted 201 dribbles against opposing defenders, successfully completing 98 of them.

That gives him a clear advantage over Mbappe. The French star ranks second, with 60 successful dribbles out of 125 attempts. Still, he is far from matching Yamal’s numbers. Third place belongs to another Real Madrid star, Vinicius Junior, who has recorded 53 successful dribbles from 155 attempts.

The top 10 does not include any other players from the two Spanish giants. Fourth place belongs to Osasuna’s Victor Muñoz (50), followed by Real Oviedo’s Hassan (46), Athletic Club’s Nico Williams (45), Elche’s Aleix Febas (36), Real Sociedad’s Ander Barrenetxea (35), Rayo Vallecano’s Andrei Ratiu (33), and Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios (32).

Lamine Yamal’s dominance in this statistic reflects not only his immense talent in that specific aspect of the game, but also his growing influence on Barcelona’s play. That an 18-year-old player has attempted and completed such a high number of dribbles speaks to a collective structure that allows him that freedom, knowing it can generate clear benefits for the team.

Yamal’s and Mbappe’s numbers this season

Lamine Yamal’s clear advantage in total dribbles this season highlights his individual ability to unbalance defenses, making him one of the most decisive players not only in La Liga but in world soccer.

That does not mean Kylian Mbappe has been any less decisive. In fact, the Real Madrid forward is La Liga’s leading scorer this season, with an impressive 22 goals in 21 matches. In that ranking, Lamine Yamal sits sixth with nine goals.

At this point, however, it is important to consider the characteristics of each player. While Mbappe is a forward whose primary responsibility is scoring goals, Yamal is a more creative player who also takes on playmaking duties.

Lamine Yamal is currently La Liga’s top assist provider with eight. In that same category, Kylian Mbappe has recorded just four assists. As a result, when combining total goal contributions in the 2025-26 La Liga season, the Real Madrid star still holds a narrower advantage: 26 compared to 17 for the Barcelona winger.

Cristiano Ronaldo has dominated headlines in Saudi Arabia in recent days after deciding to sit out Al Nassr’s last match as a form of protest toward the country’s Public Investment Fund. With a new issue reportedly emerging, Ronaldo is now also set to miss the crucial Saudi Pro League clash against Al Ittihad.

The situation came to light last Monday, when Ronaldo was left out of the squad for the match against Al Riyadh despite having no reported injury or personal issue. Subsequent reports revealed that the decision was linked to his dissatisfaction with the PIF, specifically over what he views as a lack of investment in Al Nassr during the now-closed winter transfer window.

Al Nassr are scheduled to face Al Ittihad on Matchday 21 in a pivotal SPL fixture, with Ronaldo’s side currently sitting third on 46 points, four behind leaders Al Hilal, who have played one more game. Al Ittihad sit sixth, and a win would significantly tighten the title race, but despite the importance of the matchup, Ronaldo appears poised to maintain his stance.

When Al Nassr released their squad list for the Al Ittihad match, Ronaldo was again absent, confirming he will miss his second consecutive league game. According to Fabrizio Romano, the forward’s frustration with the PIF has not eased, and while no further signings are possible with the transfer window closed, Ronaldo’s position remains unchanged.

Now 41, Ronaldo has previously emphasized his desire to maintain peak fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which he has said will be his final major tournament. This marks only the second SPL match he has missed this season, but the ongoing boycott could impact not only his pursuit of the 1,000-goal milestone, but also his long-term match readiness.

New issues rise between Ronaldo and the PIF

With the PIF overseeing Saudi Arabia’s four biggest clubs (Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli) Ronaldo’s frustration reportedly centers on what he perceives as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal. Tensions recently escalated when Ronaldo’s protest was said to be aimed at preventing Karim Benzema’s move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, an effort that ultimately failed, and new complications have since emerged.

According to A Bola, the PIF is now dealing with significant delays in salary payments. The Portuguese outlet reports that Ronaldo intends to wait for the situation to be resolved before making his return to competitive action.

Al Nassr’s next fixture beyond the Al Ittihad match is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, against Turkmenistani side FK Arkadag in the AFC Champions League Two Round of 16. With that match falling outside the SPL, it remains unclear whether Ronaldo’s boycott will extend into continental competition as well.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Liverpool have struggled significantly at the back, stringing together numerous defeats and defensive inconsistencies. With Ibrahima Konaté set to leave as a free agent, attention has turned to Virgil van Dijk and his future, as he is approaching the final year of his contract and has yet to renew it. Amid this situation, Arne Slot delivered a surprising take on the Dutchman’s departure, prompting concerns among fans.

At the last press conference, Arne Slot was asked if he had in mind a generational replacement for van Dijk. To this, the coach gave an emphatic answer: “We are aware of the fact that Virgil will not play for this club for 10 more years but he has a one-and-a-half year contract left so he will be with us for that period of time and maybe even longer… we know somewhere in the upcoming years there is life without Virgil…this club is not only thinking about short-term but mid-long term future.”

Despite publicly opening the door to van Dijk’s continued presence, Slot took a realistic view of Liverpool’s plans, recognizing their intent to find a potential replacement for the Dutchman. They are considering both short-term and long-term strategies. For that reason, the arrivals of Giovanni Leoni for €31 million and Jérémy Jacquet for €63.6 million make a great deal of sense, as neither is over 20 years old and could lead the team in the future.

Virgil van Dijk remains a key figure at Liverpool, meaning his potential departure in 2027 could destabilize the sporting project. With Joe Gomez heading toward a transfer, the Dutchman would be the only experienced defender left in the squad, forcing the Reds to pursue a big-money signing. However, this also carries risks, as it would not guarantee that any replacement could offer what the 34-year-old star continues to provide both on the pitch and in the dressing room.

Not just van Dijk: Liverpool could lose two other legends in 2027

Following a successful era under Jürgen Klopp, Arne Slot has embarked on a complete overhaul of Liverpool’s sporting project. The departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luis Díaz, Jarell Quansah, and Darwin Núñez have already presented significant challenges in managing performance, despite substantial financial investment. Furthermore, the team may face the potential exit of two more Reds legends in 2027, beyond to Virgil van Dijk.

Like Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker and Mohamed Salah are also set to see their contracts with Liverpool expire in 2027. None of these three legends have made progress on a renewal, casting doubt over their future with the club. Losing such critical pillars of the Reds simultaneously could severely impact the team’s prospects, especially since most new signings are still in the adaptation phase and might not yet be performing at their peak.

Over the past few days, Cristiano Ronaldo has been under the spotlight, with his future in the Saudi Pro League in doubt. The Portuguese forward refused to play against Al Riyadh last Monday due to his disagreement with the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) transfer policy for Al Nassr. In that context, the club sent a heartfelt message to CR7.

On Thursday, February 5, Ronaldo turned 41—coincidentally sharing his birthday with Neymar, who turned 34—and unsurprisingly received congratulatory messages of all kinds from around the world.

Al Nassr did not fall behind and shared a birthday greeting for their most important player on social media. “The legend only grows. Your commitment, mentality, and leadership drive our dreams forward. Happy Birthday, Cristiano,” read the message posted on X on Thursday, accompanied by a goat emoji.

It is not a minor detail that the Saudi club specifically highlighted Ronaldo’s “commitment” and “leadership” at a time when the player is refusing to take part in key Saudi Pro League matches with the team.

Criticism of Al Nassr’s birthday post for Cristiano Ronaldo

Although Al Nassr shared an optimistic message regarding Cristiano Ronaldo, the club was not immune to criticism. In particular, social media users expressed frustration over how late Al Nassr shared the birthday message for the Portuguese forward.

The post on X did not appear until 8:14 p.m. local time in Saudi Arabia, near the end of the day. “Al Nassr wishing the GOAT late birthday shows there are cracks in their relationship,” one user commented, echoing a sentiment shared by many other fans on social media.

Ronaldo’s remarkable longevity at 41

Beyond the current Saudi Pro League controversies that have dominated headlines, the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo has reached the age of 41 and remains one of the most relevant soccer players in the world deserves special recognition.

There are very few examples of players still competing at that age. In most cases, they are goalkeepers, who tend to have more physical leeway due to their position. Even fewer remain at the elite level of the global game, but Cristiano Ronaldo will compete this year in the sport’s most demanding tournament, the FIFA World Cup, as a key figure for one of the title favorites, Portugal.

In August, Ronaldo will mark 24 years as a professional player, dating back to his debut with Sporting CP in 2002. Much has happened since then, and he has left an indelible mark at giants such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. Still, there appears to be room for more achievements. The long-awaited 1,000th career goal is getting closer, and Cristiano seems determined to claim that record.

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to play in his final World Cup in 2026, which would represent his last chance to lift the most coveted trophy in soccer. Preparations are already underway, and with Portugal expected to establish its base camp in Miami, questions have emerged about the possibility of Ronaldo training at the same facility Lionel Messi uses with Inter Miami.

Messi’s Argentina has already confirmed that it will set up its base in Kansas City, a decision made with the group-stage venues in mind. A similar process has led Portuguese officials to consider Miami as their preferred location, a city that has been transformed by the presence of Ronaldo’s longtime rival.

Speaking at the Portuguese Soccer Congress, head coach Roberto Martínez was asked about Portugal’s base camp. While he left the door open for changes, he did reveal the federation’s current preference: “I can’t confirm, because FIFA will only confirm it in two weeks, but I can say that our idea is to stay in Florida, in Miami.”

Drawn into Group K at the 2026 World Cup, Portugal does not yet know all of its opponents, but the match venues are set. The team will open its campaign on June 17 against the winner of the FIFA International Playoff, followed by a match against Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games scheduled for NRG Stadium in Houston. The final group match, against Colombia on June 27, will be played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

Given that setup, the Spanish coach supported the logic of remaining on the East Coast. “We have two games in Houston, but in a closed stadium. So, the idea is not to train in Houston, it’s to train in the conditions of the third game, which is against Colombia, in Miami,” he said. “So, it makes sense that our base camp is in Miami and we can go to Houston for the first two games, come back, and work with the conditions of the third game,” Martinez concluded.

Could Ronaldo use Inter Miami’s training center?

Despite publicly expressing a desire to base the team in Miami for logistical reasons, official confirmation has yet to arrive, and Martínez did not specify whether the camp would be located within the city itself or in the surrounding area. That distinction leaves multiple training sites in play for Portugal.

According to the Miami Herald’s Michelle Kaufman, Inter Miami’s Florida Blue Training Center, the same facility that hosted Argentina during the last October international window, is one potential option. However, the report noted that it “seems unlikely” Portugal would establish its base at the same complex where Messi and Inter Miami train daily.

If Portugal opts for the broader Miami area, other viable options include Gardens North County District Park in Palm Beach Gardens or Beyond Bancard Field on the campus of Nova Southeastern University in Davie. FIFA is expected to officially announce the base camps for all 48 teams in the coming weeks.

For much of the past year, Christian Pulisic moved in only one direction. His performances reached a new level, his influence grew undeniable, and the timing felt perfect. As the countdown toward the 2026 World Cup quietly began, everything seemed aligned for a season that could define both a career and a national moment.

But soccer has a way of reshaping even the most carefully built narratives. What initially looked like momentum has gradually turned into uncertainty, and what felt like a dream pre-World Cup season now carries unanswered questions — questions that neither club nor nation can afford to ignore. At the start of the campaign, Pulisic was among the most productive players in Europe, delivering goals, consistency, and leadership for Milan. His form was not only impressive statistically but symbolic — a player entering his prime at exactly the right moment.

By early autumn, he had established himself as one of Serie A’s most decisive attackers, leading the league in goals plus assists per 90 minutes and trailing only Harry Kane across Europe’s top five leagues. His performances helped push Milan into the title race, while also reinforcing his status as the central figure for the United States men’s national team ahead of a home World Cup. It was, by all appearances, the perfect buildup.

The shift came quietly. A knock here, a precaution there. Then came absences that were no longer tactical. Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed ahead of the crucial league match against Bologna that the American would not travel with the squad. The reason soon followed. “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” Allegri said, adding that the club hoped to get him “back on track in the coming days.”

Bursitis — an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs near joints — was reported to be near the hip, according to The Athletic. In isolation, it was not considered serious. In context, it became another chapter in a familiar pattern.

Career shaped by stops and starts

Injuries have never been a footnote in Pulisic’s career. They have been a defining theme. During his time at Chelsea, recurring hamstring, muscle, ankle, and knee issues repeatedly disrupted rhythm and momentum. In his final two seasons alone, he suffered five separate injuries, missing months of action at critical moments.

His move to Milan initially suggested a turning point. Across his first two seasons, he contributed 52 goal involvements, played consistently, and appeared to have found balance. That illusion began to crack during the current campaign. A hamstring tear suffered on international duty in October sidelined him for nearly a month. Since then, his availability has fluctuated, his minutes have been managed, and his role has occasionally shifted to the bench. The latest bursitis issue marks his third injury of the 2025-26 season.

The impact has been visible. Since returning from the October setback, Pulisic has scored just four goals, all of them before the calendar turned to 2026. In the new year, he has failed to register a single goal contribution in five appearances, a sharp contrast to his explosive start.

Allegri acknowledged the challenge earlier this winter. “Several players not at peak condition,” he admitted in January. “Pulisic has a hamstring problem that is still bothering him from time to time.” Despite careful management, Milan remains heavily dependent on him. He is still the club’s leading scorer, and with a title race tightening, the margin for caution continues to shrink.

What it means for Milan and the USMNT

For Milan, the equation is simple: it is a better team with Pulisic, even when he is not fully fit. However, for the national team, the stakes are even higher. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting his most influential player. “He’s a fantastic player,” Pochettino said last autumn. “Sometimes we need to protect [players]… when we really need him, he needs to be in form, happy, strong.”

The 2026 World Cup will not allow for gradual recovery or imperfect preparation. It will demand sharpness, rhythm, and physical certainty. Moreover, there is still time. Pulisic could recover fully, rediscover his early-season form, and arrive at the World Cup as the player he appeared to be becoming just months ago. That outcome remains possible. But the trajectory is no longer straightforward. Injuries have once again interrupted momentum, turning clarity into doubt.

After standing out for several seasons in Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski has seen his importance in the lineup decline. In addition, he has failed to match the scoring pace of previous seasons, giving way to Ferran Torres, who seems to be winning the starting spot. Given this, the Pole seemed far from a renewal with Barcelona, as no agreement has been reached. However, they have reportedly changed their perspective on the striker’s future, surprising everyone.

With his contract expiring in June 2026, Robert Lewandowski’s agent, Pini Zahavi, reportedly met with Barcelona to present the Pole’s interest in extending his deal with the club. While no definitive response was given, the Blaugranas had begun planning for the 2026–27 season without the striker in their plans, RAC1 reports. However, the future of the 37-year-old star may have taken a radical turn.

According to ESPN’s Samuel Marsden and Moisés Llorens, Barcelona are now open to offering Robert Lewandowski a contract extension. That said, the conditions would be different, with a reduced salary and a backup role. With this in mind, the Pole would have a chance to play at least one more season at the European elite level, while providing head coach Hansi Flick with the guarantees of an experienced profile.

Far from a potential Lewandowski renewal changing Barcelona’s plans, the club continue to explore several options. Sporting director Deco is keeping his eyes open for the signing of a star striker, with Julián Álvarez and Dušan Vlahović remaining his preferred targets, Samuel Marsden reports. With this in mind, both operations could materialize in an ideal way, strengthening the squad, but they would impact the future of one of Barcelona’s rising stars.

Lewandowski’s renewal could slam the door on Rashford at Barcelona

In case Robert Lewandowski extends his contract with Barcelona, the Pole would take on a secondary role within the team. Because of this, they could even push for the signing of a star striker, aiming to boost their attacking firepower. It would not close the door on Ferran Torres, as he is considered key and his renewal is reportedly on the way. Instead, it could shut the door on Marcus Rashford remaining with the Blaugranas.

With no room in the forward line, Ferran Torres could once again become an option on the left wing and even on the right wing, rotating with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. By also keeping Roony Bardghji, signing the Englishman would no longer be an option, as all attacking spots would be filled. As a result, Rashford could be forced to return to Manchester United or seek regular playing time elsewhere.

The calendar is beginning to matter more than ever for Christian Pulisic. As Milan navigates a delicate phase of the season and the 2026 World Cup looms ever closer, the American’s form, fitness, and rhythm have become inseparable topics. What should have been a defining winter stretch has instead turned into a period of frustration — not just for the player, but for a club whose title ambitions depend heavily on him.

A carefully planned recovery window, a rare pause in the schedule, and long-term considerations have all converged at once — and Milan is betting that patience now will pay dividends later. January has been unforgiving, as Pulisic has not scored since December 28 and has not registered an assist since November 23. During that same stretch, the Rossoneri’s title charge has lost momentum. With 16 league matches remaining, the club sits five points behind Inter, victims not of defeats but of damaging draws.

Milan has lost just once all season, yet eight draws have quietly drained their advantage. These are the moments when stars are expected to tilt matches, and when Pulisic is at his best, he does exactly that. Games against Genoa and Fiorentina slipped by without his influence, and while a 1-1 draw with Roma was respectable, it did little to change the trajectory. The concern is not just form — it is timing. In a title race, slumps are magnified.

To add to the wound, Pulisic was left out of the squad for the trip to Bologna, and Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri soon confirmed the reason. “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” Allegri said, adding that the club hoped the winger would be “back on track in the coming days.”

According to The Athletic, the issue is bursitis near the hip, an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around the joint. Importantly, it is not considered a serious injury, but it was enough to keep the club from risking him in a crucial fixture. The absence forced Milan to proceed without its leading scorer in a must-win match, highlighting just how thin the margins have become.

Rare opportunity: 20 days to reset

Here is where the update takes a more positive turn. Due to a rescheduled fixture and Milan’s advancing calendar, Pulisic and Rafael Leao have been granted a 20-day window between the 1-1 draw against Roma and the next matchday against Pisa to recover fully. La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that “the injured players Saelemaekers, Pulisic, Leao and Gimenez will still report to Milanello, continuing treatment,” even as the rest of the squad were given days off.

In practical terms, this means 20 days of controlled rest, therapy, and load management, a luxury rarely afforded during the season. The next match arrives on February 13, allowing Milan to rebuild fitness without rushing decisions. This stretch is being treated less as downtime and more as a strategic reset.

The World Cup factor looms larger

Beyond Milan, the implications stretch further. The U.S. men’s national team cannot afford a compromised Pulisic heading into a home World Cup. Anything short of peak condition threatens preparation, rhythm, and confidence.

Since returning from the October hamstring injury, the 27-year-old has scored just four times, all before 2026 began. In the new year, he has gone five appearances without a goal contribution. Another interruption, even a minor one, risks extending that dip. The 20-day rest period is therefore not just about Milan’s title chase; it is about ensuring that Pulisic reaches the World Cup cycle with stability, not survival mode.

Lionel Scaloni has successfully built a highly competitive roster with Argentina. Lionel Messi not only shines, but he is also supported by standout teammates like Rodrigo De Paul, Emiliano Martínez, and others, who excel in their respective positions and enhance the team’s overall competitiveness. One of the national team’s top players reportedly plans to leave his club post-2026 World Cup, attracting interest from Atlético Madrid and Barcelona.

Unlike in previous seasons, Cristian Romero has been critical of Tottenham Hotspur’s management. Following their 3-2 defeat to Brentford, the Argentine defender shared a blunt post on his Instagram account: “In moments like this, there should be others who come out to speak, but they don’t. They only show up when things are going well.” With a negative streak in the current season, he could leave the team, with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona chasing his arrival.

Following four years of shining at Tottenham Hotspur, Cristian Romero has reportedly decided to leave the club. However, his exit could prove to be quite costly, as he is under contract until 2029 and remains a key piece of the team. In light of his potential departure from England, Atlético Madrid have reportedly identified him as a possible reinforcement, according to TyC Sports. Alongside Los Colchoneros, Barcelona have also listed him as an option, TEAMtalk reports.

While Hansi Flick has remained quiet on the Argentine star potential arrival, Diego Simeone has already spoken on Romero’s potential arrival. “Do I want Cuti Romero? Of course! He’s a great player,” he said, via DSports after a 4-0 defeat vs. PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Holding an aggressive approach in his defensive skills, Cristian Romero would be an ideal fit for Atlético Madrid, who have shined in previous years for their solidity in the backline.

Cristian Romero has emerged among the Premier League’s best defenders

After shining at Atalanta, Tottenham Hotspur decided to back his signing, paying €52 million for his transfer. While his excessive defensive aggression caused him several problems in his first season, Cristian Romero has already managed to control this approach, establishing himself as one of the most difficult defenders to beat. In addition, the 27-year-old star has emerged as the team’s undisputed leader, elevating it and becoming one of the Premier League’s reference figures.

Far from defensive solidity being his only trait, the Argentine is also known for being one of the defenders with the best ball progression, something that would make him an ideal fit in Hansi Flick’s Barcelona. Cristian Romero is even regularly compared to Virgil van Dijk, something that has reportedly caught the attention of several Premier League clubs that are also keeping a close eye on a potential move for the 2026–27 season.

For the past few days, Cristiano Ronaldo has been at the center of an unexpected dispute that puts his future in the Saudi Pro League at risk. The forward disagrees with decisions made by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) regarding Al Nassr’s transfer policy during the January window. This led him to miss the last match against Al Riyadh and could happen again against Al Ittihad this Friday.

In this context, it’s understandable that questions have arisen about Ronaldo’s plans beyond the 2025-26 season. “He has made clear behind the scenes that his return to action depends on the prompt reactivation of powers of Al Nassr’s management and, naturally, that the interference it suffered in the recently closed transfer window does not happen again in the middle of the year,” ESPN reports.

The Portuguese forward’s warning seems to be serious. Refusing to play for Al Nassr is a strong decision that reveals his level of dissatisfaction, and his stance could become even more extreme in the future. “If no changes are guaranteed in the coming weeks, Ronaldo will ask to leave in June,” the report adds.

If that scenario becomes a reality, the obvious question is what will happen next in CR7’s career. He has made it clear that he intends to keep playing at least for a while longer, so retirement after the 2026 FIFA World Cup does not appear to be a likely outcome.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential return to Europe

Ronaldo’s discontent at Al Nassr could lead to an unthinkable situation just a few weeks ago: the forward leaving the Saudi Pro League, ending a chapter that began in December 2022 and reshaped the global soccer landscape.

“The possibility of a Cristiano Ronaldo return to Europe has sparked huge anticipation. Among the potential destinations, Sporting CP stand out for reasons that go beyond soccer,” Fichajes reports.

This chance is clearly linked to CR7’s roots. He began his professional career there in 2002 and played just one year before being transferred to Manchester United. More than two decades later, a return to where it all began would be a poetic closure for the forward’s career.

Ronaldo has another major goal first

Although the future of his career is undoubtedly on Cristiano Ronaldo’s mind—especially amid the current tensions in Saudi Arabia—he is currently focused on an even more important goal: the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ronaldo has a strong chance—alongside Lionel Messi—of becoming the first player in history to participate in six World Cups. The difference compared to the Argentine star is that he has never won the title. At 41 years old, this will be his last opportunity to do so with Portugal. That is why all of his efforts are now focused on staying healthy and match-ready to approach the tournament in the best possible condition.

Match Overview

Juventus and Atalanta collide in a high-stakes Coppa Italia showdown with a semifinal spot on the line, renewing a fierce Serie A rivalry under the knockout spotlight. Juventus bring experience and momentum, sitting fourth in the league and pushing to stay alive across competitions.

However, the task won’t be easy, since their rivals will be Atalanta, who thrive in pressure-packed moments and arrive confident they can spoil the party. With everything at stake, this is a matchup you won’t want to miss.

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Following Luciano Spalletti’s arrival, Juventus climbed back up to become one of the best teams in Italy, entering in the UEFA Champions League positions. Although Weston McKennie had a tough time earning a spot in the lineup, he has managed to become one of its most important players. While his future with the Vecchia Signora is not entirely certain, the USMNT star keeps shining, claiming an award that demonstrates his level ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Weston McKennie has been named Juventus’ Player of the Month for January, beating out Kenan Yildiz, Manuel Locatelli, and Khéphren Thuram. Not only has he scored three goals in his last seven matches, but he has also become a key piece of the team, linking the midfield with the attack while simultaneously contributing with defensive cover. Far from having an impact in just one area, the USMNT star consistently influences the game all over the pitch.

Even though McKennie is no longer typically stationed at the base of midfield, Spalletti has opted to give him a much more advanced role as a mezzala. Given his impressive level, the Bianconeri are prioritizing Weston’s contract renewal, as they do not want to lose him on a free transfer at the end of the season, according to Mirko Di Natale. However, several clubs—such as Atlético Madrid and two Premier League sides—are reportedly pursuing his arrival as a free agent.

Weston appears to be in the best form of his career, heading into the 2026 World Cup with strong chances to stand out as a key piece for the USMNT. With Christian Pulisic dealing with physical issues and Giovanni Reyna struggling to shine, McKennie could become the undisputed leader of Mauricio Pochettino’s team. In fact, the coach could even give him a more advanced role, prioritizing his current form to shine alongside Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman.

Not only McKennie: Juventus push to renew another key star

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Weston McKennie’s contract renewal has been one of the most recurring topics among Juventus fans. However, the USMNT star has taken time to reach an agreement to extend his deal, as the Bianconeri are coming off a season marked by significant changes, including the arrival of Luciano Spalletti. Alongside the USMNT star, the Italian side is also looking to secure the continuity of another key player for the sporting project.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Juventus are prioritizing the contract renewal of Kenan Yildiz before addressing those of McKennie and Spalletti. Yildiz, whose current deal expires in 2029, could see his contract extended even further, with an annual salary of €6 million. As the cornerstone of the team, the 20-year-old Turkish forward plays a crucial role, emerging as both the leader of the attack and the club’s top scorer.

Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo have developed one of the most heated rivalries in Saudi Arabia, fueled largely by recent events involving both stars and rising tensions within the Saudi Pro League. Now set to wear the Al Hilal shirt, the French striker appeared to snub Ronaldo’s Al Nassr by drawing a bold comparison between his new club and Real Madrid.

Notably, Benzema and Ronaldo were both central figures during the most successful era in Real Madrid’s history, lifting four UEFA Champions League titles together as part of their combined five overall triumphs. However, Saudi Arabia has now become the stage for their rivalry to continue, both on and off the pitch, following Benzema’s move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal.

After completing the transfer on the final day of the window, Benzema spoke for the first time as an Al Hilal player on the club’s official website: “It’s good. I’m happy to be here. After my first training with the team, with the coach, I’m so happy and glad to be a part of this team.“

The Frenchman then drew a comparison between his new club and the team where he spent the prime of his career and won the Ballon d’Or. “It’s a good team, with a good history. They have won a lot of trophies. It’s similar, like Real Madrid in Asia. Everything is good, the fans are good, they play well, they have good players, they have a good mentality,” Benzema stated.

The striker concluded by reflecting on his past encounters with Al Hilal, setting high expectations for his new chapter: “I liked this team from before. I used to play against them with Madrid and it was not an easy game. It was a good game so I have good memories. Today I’m happy because I’m a player of Al Hilal.“

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s reported frustration has grown over the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) level of support for Al Nassr, Al Hilal’s successful push to sign Benzema only added fuel to the situation. With Ronaldo skipping Al Nassr’s most recent match and Benzema now settled at his new club, the Frenchman’s comments appeared to elevate Al Hilal above their domestic rivals.

When could Ronaldo and Benzema face each other?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema were originally set to cross paths again next Friday, when Al Nassr host Al Ittihad, but Benzema’s sudden transfer changed those plans. With Ronaldo also reportedly considering missing Al Nassr’s next match, their reunion may now be delayed until later in the season.

Al Nassr and Al Hilal are scheduled to meet on May 7 for Matchday 32 of the Saudi Pro League, a clash that could prove decisive in the title race with just one point separating the two clubs. The matchup would mark another chapter in the rivalry between Ronaldo and Benzema, adding extra edge to what is already shaping up to be one of the league’s most anticipated fixtures.

Pep Guardiola has turned Manchester City into one of the most dominant teams in world soccer, delivering the sustained success Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed envisioned when he acquired the club in 2008. However, after recently voicing frustration over the club’s transfer spending, questions have resurfaced about Guardiola’s long-term future with the Sky Blues, and reports suggest clarity may be emerging.

Following a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, City currently trail Arsenal in the Premier League title race with 47 points, sitting six points off the top. Determined to rebound after a trophyless season, Guardiola has navigated a year plagued by injuries, prompting the club to secure Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guéhi during the January 2026 transfer window.

Asked during Tuesday’s press conference about those additions, Guardiola delivered a pointed message toward the club’s hierarchy: “Yeah, really good. I’m a little bit sad and upset because in net spend in the last five years we are seventh in the Premier League. I want to be the first. I don’t understand why the club don’t spend more money. I am a little bit grumpy with them.“

Despite January reinforcements, Guardiola widened his perspective to the broader financial landscape of the past five seasons. While Manchester City’s net spend is estimated at around €460 million, six Premier League clubs, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Liverpool, have spent more in the transfer market, even as City continue to lead the league in wage expenditure.

“But like we won in the past because we spent a lot, now six teams have to win the Premier Leagues, Champions Leagues and FA Cups because they spend more in the last five years,” Guardiola added. “These are facts. It’s not an opinion. Good luck to the six teams ahead of us in net spend over the last five years,” the City boss concluded, issuing a clear challenge to his rivals.

Guardiola’s long-term future at City in doubt

Amid speculation linking him to the Brazil national team job following the 2024–25 season, Guardiola ultimately signed a two-year contract extension with Manchester City. Still, with his current deal set to expire in June 2027, the club is already preparing for a future in which the Spanish manager may no longer be at the helm.

According to BBC Sport, there are growing doubts internally over whether Guardiola will remain beyond next season, despite having another year left on his contract. Even if he chooses to stay through its expiration, the report suggests it is “improbable” that he would agree to another extension.

With City still competing on multiple fronts, second in the Premier League, qualified for the Champions League Round of 16, and set to play in the Carabao Cup final, no immediate decision is expected. The report adds that clarity on Guardiola’s future is more likely to come near the end of the season or shortly after the campaign concludes.

Potential successors have already been discussed, including Xabi Alonso following his departure from Real Madrid, Enzo Maresca, and Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas. As City approach a decade under Guardiola’s leadership, the club’s hierarchy is quietly weighing long-term options for life after the most successful manager in its history.

Barcelona has reemerged as one of the top teams in world soccer since Hansi Flick’s arrival. The rise of Lamine Yamal, combined with Raphinha’s resurgence under the German coach, has given the Catalans a dangerous attacking unit. Now, the club may be looking to add more young talent to its squad.

According to Spanish newspaper Diario Sport, Barcelona has been closely monitoring Mika Godts. The 20-year-old Belgian winger is currently under contract with Ajax, a club well known for developing elite young talent throughout its history.

Godts mainly plays on the left wing, using his right foot to dribble and accelerate from that side. While Barcelona is also famous for developing young players, squad depth across all positions can be decisive in seasons with a heavy match schedule, where rotating and resting key players becomes essential.

Other clubs have shown interest in Godts

Certain clubs share strong footballing identities, often making player adaptation smoother. The historic connection between Barcelona and Ajax could help Godts adjust more quickly to the style of play Barcelona favors.

However, Barcelona is not alone in the race. Arsenal is also tracking the winger, according to “Voetbal International,” with the Premier League club continuing its strategy of investing heavily in young talent to remain competitive.

Additional interest has been reported from Serie A clubs such as Napoli and AS Roma, while Bundesliga’s Stuttgart is also monitoring the situation as the race for Godts continues to develop.

Godts’ statistics with Ajax

Godts began his youth career at Belgian powerhouse Anderlecht before moving to Genk and later joining Ajax. He was promoted to the Eredivisie club’s first team in 2023.

The winger has made 96 professional appearances since arriving in the Netherlands, scoring 18 goals. This season, he has recorded 10 goals in 19 Eredivisie matches and has also earned eight Champions League appearances.

Match Overview

Opening-round action delivers a must-watch clash as Cruz Azul enter the spotlight riding early momentum from Liga MX, where the team has collected nine points from its first four outings and quickly established itself as a contender near the top of the table.

The Mexican giants now shift focus to a demanding test against Vancouver FC, a side embracing the opportunity to measure itself against one of the region’s heavyweights while aiming to make a statement in this first leg.

With just over four months to go before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, many players are finalizing their futures with the tournament in mind. Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is no exception, and according to reports, he has decided what to do with his career after representing Argentina in North America this summer.

“Cristian Cuti Romero has interest from Spain’s La Liga and another league,” Argentine journalist Gaston Edul said this week via his official X account. “He already had interest in the previous transfer window and was very close to a formal offer.”

The 27-year-old center-back is currently the leader of the Spurs on the field, having been established as the team captain following Son Heung-min’s departure to Los Angeles FC last season. However, his days at the London side appear to be numbered. “He is going to leave Tottenham in the next June transfer window,” the report adds.

Romero joined Tottenham in 2021 after standing out in Serie A and quickly earned a spot in the starting lineup thanks to his aggressive playing style. That earned him the fans’ affection and a contract extension, which runs through June 30, 2029.

However, the club’s limited competitiveness in recent years—currently sitting 14th in the Premier League and narrowly avoiding relegation last season—combined with tensions with executives, has reportedly contributed to Romero’s desire to move in the near future.

Romero’s main focus is now the World Cup

As happens every four years, the attention of most elite players is currently focused on arriving at the World Cup in peak form. For Cuti Romero, that also means a special challenge: trying to repeat Argentina’s success from Qatar 2022.

Lionel Scaloni’s team has remained competitive in recent years, winning the 2024 Copa America, and aims to continue its dominance in world soccer this summer. Even with uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s participation, Argentina retain the core of the team that won the title just over three years ago, with Romero as a key player.

Tottenham have a potential replacement for Romero

While losing Cristian Romero would be a major blow, Tottenham appear to have a Plan B. They are counting on the potential return of Luka Vuskovic, the 18-year-old Croatian center-back who joined the club last summer and, after featuring in the first three games of the season, requested a loan move to another team for more playing time.

Since August, Vuskovic has been playing with Hamburger SV in Germany, where his performances have exceeded expectations. The young defender has played 19 matches and scored four goals this season across the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal. When his loan at Hamburger ends, he is expected to return to England and become a new defensive option for coach Thomas Frank.

Marc-André ter Stegen has long been unlucky in his quest to be Germany’s starting goalkeeper for major tournaments over the past decade. Competing with Manuel Neuer has limited his opportunities, and now an injury could be his biggest obstacle ahead of the World Cup.

Girona, the club where he is on loan from Barcelona, announced that he will need surgery. “Ter Stegen will undergo surgery on Friday to repair the injury he suffered to his left hamstring in the match against Real Oviedo. The time for his return should be determined after the intervention.”

Several outlets suggest the goalkeeper could be out for the rest of the season, with recovery timelines reported to extend for several months. That scenario puts his availability for the World Cup in serious doubt.

René Adler names potential substitute for Ter Stegen

Germany has a long history of great goalkeepers, from Sepp Maier to Oliver Kahn to Manuel Neuer; that tradition makes the position especially prominent. René Adler may not be counted among the absolute greats, but he played more than 300 matches in his career and earned 12 caps for Germany.

Adler, speaking as an analyst for ZDF, said: “It’s very cruel. I think there won’t be a World Cup for him. He deserves it after all the suffering of being a loyal number two. You must consider the facts, how long he has been out, and that Oliver Baumann is playing great.”

He also closed the door on a Neuer return: “Baumann has played well in the qualifiers. He’s having a very good Bundesliga season with Hoffenheim. Neuer retired on his own initiative. It’s an unnecessary discussion. We must show Baumann respect because he earned it with his form.”

Ter Stegen’s numbers with Girona

Ter Stegen had a remarkable spell at Barcelona. His team achievements include six La Liga titles and one Champions League, part of a total haul of 19 trophies during his time at the club. His exit left a sour taste for many involved.

Losing his spot in the Barcelona first team left him short on minutes after the emergence of Joan García, so a loan to Girona was arranged to give him game time and strengthen his case for Germany.

This injury ended his run with the new club after just two matches. He conceded one goal in the 1-1 draw with Getafe and one in the loss to Real Oviedo, where he was injured. His replacement will be Paulo Gazzaniga.

After Lionel Messi’s departure and Ansu Fati’s decline, Barcelona appeared to be left without a generational talent to lead the sporting project. Nevertheless, Lamine Yamal has managed to establish himself among the world’s best players, even finishing second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or at just 18 years old. In light of his clear emergence as the cornerstone of the Blaugranas, legend Andrés Iniesta did not hesitate to deliver a powerful praise to the young star.

In a recent interview with Catalunya Ràdio, Andrés Iniesta did not hesitate to praise Lamine Yamal, making clear the challenge he has ahead of him: “He has everything it takes to become one of the greatest soccer players in history. His challenge is to achieve this, to improve every year. He has the potential to do so, and we hope he continues as he is now.”

While Lamine has already spent two years proving himself as a generational talent, Iniesta urges calm, acknowledging that Yamal is still a young player who faces the challenge of maintaining his level over many years—something very few have achieved. Nonetheless, Yamal has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most consistent players, steering clear of controversy and off-field scandals, and showing that he is focused on making history.

Amid a 2025–26 season in which he has dealt with several physical issues, Lamine Yamal is enjoying his best individual campaign. In 29 matches, the 18-year-old star has scored 14 goals and provided 13 assists, nearly matching his numbers from last season with several months ahead. In addition, he has taken a clear step forward, assuming much greater responsibility and impact on the pitch, looking noticeably more mature in his game.

Lamine Yamal makes a bold reveal on his future at Barcelona

Unlike many emerging stars, Lamine Yamal was forced to step up in a team desperate for a difference-making talent. While many players could have been affected by that pressure, he managed to become one of the most important stars in world soccer. Because of this, his future has been surrounded by speculation about a potential departure from Barcelona, to which the 18-year-old star responded with a firm and clear statement.

“I’m in the best moment of my career… I hope I can stay here for my entire life (in Barcelona), where I enjoy every day so much, at the best club and in the best city in the world,” Lamine Yamal said at 78th Mundo Deportivo Gala. By rejecting any potential departure, the 18-year-old star set clear boundaries for other teams, aiming to etch his name in Barcelona’s history, much like Lionel Messi.

Having played 144 games with Barcelona, Lamine Yamal has scored 39 goals and provided 47 assists. Additionally, he has already clinched two LaLiga titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups. Despite showcasing his impressive talent, the 18-year-old star still has an uphill climb, as he is far from being the most awarded player or the top scorer for the Blaugranas, making consistency a key asset for him.

There is no doubt that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are the biggest stars of this century’s soccer, and they hold a prominent place in the history of the sport. Both have left their mark on fans’ imaginations, who constantly debate who is the better player.

Ezequiel Garay has the rare distinction of having played alongside both Messi and Ronaldo. He played with Leo for years on the Argentina national team, and the two were finalists in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where they lost the title match to Germany. He also played alongside CR7 at Real Madrid between 2009 and 2011.

In a recent interview with DAZN, Garay was asked whether he considered Ronaldo the best player he had played with in his career. “No,” the former defender answered honestly. “He’s number two. Number one is Leo, and Cristiano is number two, without a doubt.”

Digging deeper into the comparison between the two superstars, Garay was clear in highlighting Messi in particular. “They are two very different players, but the one who has surprised me the most is Leo. I’ve been fortunate to play with both, and Leo is something else,” said the former center-back, who, like Messi, was born in Rosario and began his career at Newell’s Old Boys.

Garay highlights a key trait of Cristiano Ronaldo

Even though he chose Lionel Messi as the best player he played with, Ezequiel Garay did not hold back praise for Cristiano Ronaldo. He specifically highlighted a characteristic of the Portuguese forward that stood out during their years together at Real Madrid.

“It’s true what Carlos Tevez always says,” Garay explained during the same interview, citing another Argentine who played with Ronaldo. “He’s the first to arrive at six in the morning and the last to leave. He does his routine, his training, his physiotherapy. Everything to always be in the best condition.”

Which players have been teammates of both Messi and Ronaldo?

Ezequiel Garay belongs to a select group of players who have had the fortune of being teammates with both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. That list also includes other former Argentine Real Madrid players, such as Fernando Gago, Gonzalo Higuain, and Angel Di Maria.

The same logic works in reverse: Portuguese players who played with Messi at Barcelona and with CR7 on the national team. Examples include Deco, Nelson Semedo, and Andre Gomes.

Additionally, during Ronaldo’s time at Manchester United, he was teammates with Argentine players Gabriel Heinze and Carlos Tevez, as well as Gerard Pique, who later returned to Barcelona and won multiple titles with Messi. Other examples include Paulo Dybala, Miralem Pjanic, and Henrik Larsson.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al Nassr’s match last Monday sparked significant turmoil across the Saudi Pro League, with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) emerging as the main target of criticism. With Al Nassr set to return to action against Al Ittihad on Friday, the Portuguese legend has reportedly made a key decision regarding his availability for the fixture.

The news broke during Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh, when Ronaldo was left out of the squad despite not carrying an injury. Reports later revealed that the decision stemmed from off-field issues, with the Portuguese star growing increasingly frustrated over what he perceives as a lack of investment in Al Nassr compared to rivals Al Hilal, a stance that could once again influence his availability.

According to ESPN, Ronaldo is expected to maintain his current position and boycott a second consecutive match, opting not to feature against Al Ittihad. The report adds that the 40-year-old has yet to receive concrete assurances from the PIF regarding potential changes to the club’s management structure.

Ronaldo has remained publicly silent on the situation, even missing Al Nassr’s training session on Tuesday. The most recent update came Wednesday, when the forward returned to training and shared a photo from the club’s facilities, though without addressing the ongoing controversy.

Al Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus has previously referenced the level of influence Al Hilal wields compared to Al Nassr, a sentiment echoed by Ronaldo in recent weeks. His frustration intensified during a 3-1 defeat, when he accused officials of favoring Al Hilal, but the tipping point reportedly came when Karim Benzema neared a move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal following contract disagreements.

Al Nassr will host Al Ittihad on Friday at Al Awwal Park for Matchday 21, with the club sitting second in the SPL standings on 46 points, just one behind leaders Al Hilal. Although Al Nassr managed a narrow 1-0 win over Al Riyadh without Ronaldo, the potential absence of the team’s leading scorer (18 goals in 22 matches) would be a significant blow in a pivotal clash.

Ronaldo’s future at Al Nassr increasingly uncertain

The PIF currently controls four of the Saudi Pro League’s top clubs: Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, and Al Nassr. While all four have benefited from heavy investment and sustained success, Ronaldo reportedly believes Al Hilal has received preferential treatment within the league’s structure.

ESPN has also reported that Ronaldo could seek an exit from the Saudi Pro League as early as June if meaningful changes are not implemented. Additional reports suggest the forward has a €50 million release clause in his contract, a figure that could reopen the door to a dramatic move and trigger another major shift in the global soccer landscape.

Match Overview

Liga MX and CONCACAF heavyweight Monterrey step into the spotlight as one of the clear favorites to lift the trophy. While Rayados have yet to fully find their rhythm in the early stages of the Liga MX season, their pedigree still make them a formidable contender.

Standing in their way are Xelaju, one of Guatemala’s most accomplished clubs, which will enter the first leg aiming to capitalize on any early-season uncertainty and deliver a statement result against one of the region’s traditional powers.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has been publicly clashing with others over refereeing in La Liga. Since the Negreira case became public, he and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez have exchanged words. Recently, a former referee joined the discussion.

It was Eduardo Iturralde González, a referee from 1995 to 2012, who spoke on “El Larguero” and said Laporta should apologize for his comments about refereeing. “I would advise Laporta that, when he says a club is being benefited, the climate we are living in is that he, among others, has paid the vice president of the CTA (Technical Committee of Referees),” he said.

González added: “The current climate in Spanish football and refereeing shows the disservice that has been done to Spanish referees, partly thanks to him and Enriquez Negreira. He must apologise to Spanish football and refereeing.”

What did Laporta say about Real Madrid’s referees?

The comments followed Laporta’s reaction to the penalty Real Madrid received in their win over Rayo Vallecano and the amount of stoppage time added. “I watched Real Madrid’s game against Rayo Vallecano, and I don’t know where those nine or 10 minutes of extra time came from,” Laporta said.

He continued by referring to what he described as a controversial result involving Barcelona’s historic rivals. “I saw many plays in which players are getting used to diving, and this should be a card. I say this in a constructive sense. Sometimes it also happens in our favor, and I would recognize it the same.”

Barcelona is competing in a very close title race with Real Madrid in La Liga. Kylian Mbappé’s late goal againts Rayo Vallecano could prove important later in the season. Currently, Barcelona is one point ahead after 22 matches played.

Negreira case prompts scrutiny of refereeing payments

The “Negreira case” refers to allegations that Barcelona made payments to a company linked to Enriquez Negreira, the former vice president of Spain’s refereeing body, which sparked investigations and widespread scrutiny of refereeing integrity in Spanish football.

The controversy has led to legal inquiries, increased media attention, and heightened tensions between clubs and the refereeing establishment, influencing public debate about transparency, governance, and conflicts of interest in the sport.

Lionel Messi’s retirement has been a topic of discussion for years. However, the Argentine doesn’t seem to be slowing down, even while playing in a non-European league. His influence at Inter Miami has been immense, guiding the club to the MLS title last season.

Rumors about Messi’s next move rarely gain traction, as he hardly ever hints at his plans. This time, however, it was the club doing the talking. Juan Manuel Medina, vice president of Newell’s—Leo’s childhood team—has positioned the club as a potential destination, signaling their interest in bringing him back.

Medina said to TN: “We are working for Leo to play in Newell’s in the first semester of 2027, but there isn’t much more than that for now. It’s a project that exceeds Newell’s. It’s a project from the city of Rosario, the province, and Argentine football.”

What club would Messi find?

There’s no denying that Messi knows exactly where he would be headed: his childhood club. It’s the team where he played in the youth divisions before moving to Barcelona, and the club whose jersey he wore to honor Diego Maradona after his death, even while he was still playing in Spain.

Newell’s have been under very poor conditions for years. The club hasn’t had strong leadership at the top, but it’s now aiming for a brighter future. Medina’s party was chosen to command the club last December, hoping for a return to glorious days.

The season has started poorly, with Newell’s failing to secure a victory in their first three matches and the outlook not looking promising. One intriguing possibility for Messi would be the famous derby against Rosario Central. If he were to play, he would face his friend Ángel Di María, who joined the club from Benfica last year to finish his career.

Messi’s contract situation with Inter Miami

Messi surprised everybody when Inter Miami announced a contract extension last year. After years of signing for just one or two seasons, he committed to ending his career there when he signed through 2028, at age 41.

A potential move to Newell’s would not be to finish his career there. The Argentine club reportedly intends to sign him on loan for the first half of the season so he could play in his home country for the first time. But that seems unlikely based on what he said when he renewed his contract with the Herons.

“It makes me really happy to stay here and to continue with this project that, besides being a dream, has become a beautiful reality, playing in this stadium at Miami Freedom Park. Since I arrived in Miami, I’ve been very happy, so I’m truly glad to keep going here,” Messi said last year at the Miami Freedom Park site.

Lionel Messi is preparing for what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance in 2026, while head coach Lionel Scaloni continues to fine-tune plans for Argentina’s squad. With less than six months to go before the tournament kicks off, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed that the team will be based on U.S. soil for much of the World Cup, which will be staged across North America.

AFA announced that Kansas City will serve as the Albiceleste’s base during the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While the specific training facility has not yet been disclosed, expectations are that Sporting Kansas City’s training complex will host Messi and the national team.

The decision was the result of extensive planning. In a statement released Wednesday, AFA explained that after several inspection visits and a comprehensive final report, “it was concluded that Kansas City would be the ideal location to approach the competition, based on the distances between host cities and, above all, the facilities and overall comfort available to the delegation.”

Earlier expectations pointed toward Argentina setting up camp in Miami, Florida—particularly at Inter Miami’s facilities—mirroring what the national team did during the October international break and factoring in Messi’s presence there. However, the locations of Argentina’s group-stage matches ultimately led the federation to adjust its plans.

With two pre–World Cup friendlies still to be scheduled, the group-stage venues played a decisive role in the choice. Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on June 16, before traveling to Dallas to face Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27 at AT&T Stadium. Should Argentina top the group, Messi and company could then continue their run in cities such as Miami, Atlanta, and New York/New Jersey.

Which camp will Messi’s Argentina use?

While Argentina’s strategic base city has been confirmed, the specific training ground has yet to be officially announced. Had Miami been selected, Inter Miami’s Fort Lauderdale facility would have been the obvious choice, but the shift to Kansas City has opened up new possibilities.

The leading candidate is Sporting Kansas City’s training complex, a top-tier facility regularly used by the MLS club. An alternative option under consideration is the Kansas City Current’s facilities from the NWSL. Training is expected to begin on June 1, once Scaloni has finalized the World Cup squad.

Match Overview

Santos enter this matchup searching for a quick course correction after a shaky start to the 2026 season, as a 4-2 loss to Chapecoense exposed lingering problems at the back for a club determined to move beyond last year’s relegation fight.

The spotlight now turns to Neymar Jr., who is expected to shoulder the creative load as Santos renew their rivalry with a São Paulo side brimming with confidence following an impressive 2-1 opening-week triumph over Flamengo and eager to build early momentum.

Vinicius Junior has been in the spotlight over the past few months, along with several of his Real Madrid teammates, due to the team’s disappointing results this season. That situation has fueled rumors of a possible move for the Brazilian winger, with the Saudi Pro League as one of the most tempting destinations.

Until now, however, most of these speculations were based on rumors and media reports. But now an official voice has confirmed interest in Vini, which could completely change the scenario for the future.

Esteve Calzada, CEO of Al Hilal, gave an interview this week to Cadena SER, where he was asked about the chance of Vinicius Junior leaving Real Madrid to follow in Cristiano Ronaldo’s footsteps in Asia. “In our case there are no conversations, but the CEO of the Saudi league, whenever asked, says that if he is available, they will try to bring him,” Calzada said.

These words may be no more than an expression of desire, but the track record of the Saudi Pro League makes it a statement worth taking seriously. Currently, the world’s highest-paid player, Cristiano Ronaldo, earns a reported annual salary of over $200 million at Al Nassr. Karim Benzema, recently transferred to Al Hilal, also ranks among the highest-paid players globally, and Neymar was on that list until early 2025.

Vinicius’s contractual situation at Real Madrid

Vinicius is under contract with Real Madrid until the end of the next season, meaning June 30, 2027. While there is still time before that date, clubs usually begin renewal talks well in advance to avoid undesirable situations in the months leading up to the contract’s end.

In this case, however, Vini’s renewal has reportedly caused tensions, leaving the winger’s future uncertain. It is also notable that he has a release clause of €1 billion (approximately $1.18 billion). That amount was set to prevent the player from leaving without the club’s consent, as it is virtually impossible for another team to meet that figure.

However, the massive spending by some Saudi Pro League clubs in recent years has approached that amount. In fact, a few weeks ago, the president of Al Ittihad revealed that in 2023 he made an offer to Lionel Messi. “I contacted him before, when his contract with PSG ended. I offered him €1.4 billion. He rejected such a big offer for the sake of his family,” Anmar Al Haili said according to NIBC.

Another option for Vinicius

Alongside the growing speculation regarding the Saudi Pro League, Vinicius has also been a topic of discussion at Flamengo, the club where he began nearly a decade ago and which now dominates South American soccer after winning the 2025 Copa Libertadores.

“Now, what comes next is to talk about Vinicius Junior. When does his contract end, president? We won’t have to pay anything to Real Madrid,” Flamengo sporting director Jose Boto said during the press conference introducing Lucas Paqueta, another star of the Brazil national team, who joined the team this week.

After leaving serious doubts at Aston Villa, Marcus Rashford’s arrival at Barcelona was heavily criticized, as questions were raised about his potential impact on the team. Nevertheless, the Englishman has surprised everyone with his influence under Hansi Flick, making a difference both as a scorer and a creator. Despite everything pointing to his signing being a certainty, Barcelona are reportedly pushing to rethink the agreement with Manchester United.

According to Carrusel Deportivo, Marcus Rashford’s impact has been well appreciated in Barcelona. Despite this, they are not inclined to activate the €30 million purchase option. While the Blaugranas want to keep the Englishman, they are hoping to reduce that amount by reaching a different kind of agreement. Although the 28-year-old is willing to lower his salary to remain with the Spanish side, lowering the price demanded by Manchester United appears to be difficult.

Reducing the €30 million fee poses a significant challenge for Barcelona. After witnessing Rashford’s impact, Manchester United are contemplating reintegrating the 28-year-old striker into the squad. With a potential role envisioned for him, the Red Devils might resist any efforts to lower the player’s price. Consequently, the Blaugranas risk losing one of their top scorers this season, which would be a major setback for Hansi Flick.

Even though Marcus Rashford is a well-known Manchester United supporter, he has acknowledged that his priority is to remain at Barcelona. With the Spanish side interested in keeping him, the Englishman could apply pressure on the Red Devils, forcing an agreement to be reached for his transfer. For this reason, Hansi Flick still hold strong chances of retaining one of his best scorers heading into the 2026–27 season.

Not only Rashford: Barcelona eye another major attacking signing

Hansi Flick appears to be finding the right formula at Barcelona, implementing a highly varied attacking approach. Far from relying solely on Robert Lewandowski, they have gained multiple scorers, such as Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Marcus Rashford. Because of this, the Polish striker is leaning toward an exit, already setting a deadline to define his future. As a result, the Blaugranas are reportedly targeting the signing of another offensive star.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Julián Álvarez has emerged as Barcelona’s top priority, as he is seen as an ideal fit. However, his arrival is complicated, as Atlético Madrid would reportedly demand more than $100 million for his transfer, according to Diario Sport. In light of this, Dušan Vlahović has emerged as another alternative, as he would arrive as a free agent. Even so, the Serbian’s high salary remains a key issue to address, reports MARCA.

Sergio Ramos has been making moves in his career not as a player, but with the possibility of becoming part-owner of the club where he rose to prominence, Sevilla. However, reports have now surfaced suggesting that the 39-year-old defender could also make a surprise return to the pitch with the Andalusian side.

After spending one season with Liga MX club Monterrey, Ramos chose not to renew his contract, which expired last December, as he weighed the possibility of returning to European soccer. While the 2026 winter transfer window has closed, the Spanish legend remains a free agent and has yet to sign with a new club.

At the same time, Ramos has partnered with Five Eleven Capital, an American soccer-focused investment group, as part of a potential takeover bid. According to Cadena SER, the former Real Madrid captain has reached a preliminary agreement with Sevilla’s core group of reference shareholders to move forward with the acquisition.

Now, Diario de Sevilla reports that Sevilla is considering the signing of Ramos as a player, a move that would mark his third spell with the club. While there were initially no sporting discussions, the possibility has gained traction as talks surrounding the club’s ownership situation have progressed.

Sevilla are currently dealing with a difficult La Liga campaign, having conceded 37 goals through 22 matches, the most in the league. Sitting 15th in the table, just two points above the relegation zone, the club could look to Ramos’ experience and leadership to bring stability to an unsettled back line.

Could Ramos play at Sevilla as an owner?

As a free agent, Ramos would face no sporting obstacles to rejoining Sevilla. However, his potential dual role raises legal questions under Spanish law regarding conflicts of interest.

Spain’s Sports Law includes a clause prohibiting active players from holding commercial interests in competitions in which they participate, a rule that would conflict with Ramos’ ownership ambitions. Still, the timeline for the club’s sale reportedly points to June, which could allow the two situations to coexist from a legal standpoint.

Despite the Copa del Rey elimination, Álvaro Arbeloa’s arrival seemed to be the solution for Real Madrid. Stringing together important victories, the coach appeared on course to remain in charge of the team next season. However, that situation is said to have changed, as Arbeloa is reportedly facing dressing-room issues with certain players, who have shown their dissatisfaction in the recent games due to compelling reasons.

According to Antón Meana of Cadena SER, Álvaro Arbeloa has been closer than usual with Real Madrid’s players. Some of the coach’s decisions have caused discomfort among the players, with Daniel Ceballos’ absence against Benfica becoming a major issue. Additionally, the post-match atmosphere following the game against Rayo Vallecano was quite tense, as there were technical and tactical disagreements between Arbeloa and the players.

Along with this, Real Madrid’s players were reportedly expecting more from the change of coach. Additionally, they do not see him as the definitive manager, but rather as if the Real Madrid Castilla coach were simply in charge on an interim basis, Antón Meana reports. As a result, Álvaro Arbeloa’s continuity is seen as quite difficult, as he has failed to fully take control of the dressing room as expected, opening the door to the arrival of a more experienced manager.

Although Arbeloa has managed to improve the atmosphere in the dressing room and deliver solid results, Real Madrid continue to face serious problems within the team. As with Xabi Alonso, the midfield remains a growing concern, as neither Jude Bellingham nor Arda Guler are able to control the team’s tempo. In addition, he has not been able to define his offense well, as it is still unclear whether Rodrygo, Brahim Diaz, or Franco Mastantuono will start at right wing.

Real Madrid have reportedly target two major candidates as coach

After placing bets on Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa as team coaches, Real Madrid reportedly aim to secure a more experienced coach with a winning track record for the 2026-27 season. With this objective, Jurgen Klopp remains the top priority and is reportedly open to the possibility, according to Florian Plettenberg. Alongside the German, Aston Villa’s Unai Emery also emerges as a strong contender, as reported by Ramón Álvarez de Mon.

Real Madrid’s problem may not be solved with another coach

Unlike previous seasons, Real Madrid have had quite a few problems with their roster. Despite having made some investments, they have suffered numerous injuries in the defensive line. In addition, the repetitive profiles in midfield have exposed the team’s lack of versatility, leaving them short on ideas and creating serious problems in rebuilding. For this reason, betting on a change of coach does not solve the problem either, as some changes may be needed.

With David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger nearing free agency, Los Blancos may need to pursue a new center back. In addition to this concern, they are reportedly on the hunt for a midfielder with strong organizational skills. Furthermore, Real Madrid might be willing to part with Brahim Diaz, Rodrygo, or Franco Mastantuono, as they all share a similar profile for the right wing. Without these changes, opting for a different coach could again lead to another failure.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Al Nassr have demonstrated impressive performance, though inconsistent results have exposed some problems in the roster. While reportedly seeking new signings, they have faced obstacles from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF). In response, Cristiano Ronaldo has allegedly strained relations with the Saudi Pro League, yet the Portuguese player reportedly continues to bring the team positive news amid the tensions.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Cristiano Ronaldo has not traveled to Portugal at any point, maintaining his commitment to Al Nassr without missing training with the team. He even expects to attend the training session scheduled by coach Jorge Jesus on Wednesday, February 4. Despite this, the veteran remains at odds with the PIF, so his absence from the next game cannot be ruled out in case the situation does not change.

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence is directly affecting Al Nassr, the Portuguese star reportedly has no issues with the club. On the contrary, he is said to acknowledge that efforts were made to secure the arrivals of several players, but all of them were blocked. With the transfer window already closed, few situations are likely to change for his team, although he could be looking for a solution ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly holds firm stance on Saudi Pro League and PIF. Unlike Al Hilal, Al Nassr could only secured two arrivals: Hayder Abdulkareem and Abdullah Al-Hamdan. Even though both stars solve an immediate need for Jorge Jesus’ team, neither player rank among the best on their positions, leaving doubts on their immediate impact. Coupled with that, they had to transfer Wesley Gassova and loaned out Haroune Camara, evidently weakening the offense.

Al Nassr could get FIFA’s support to terminate Ronaldo deal

Although Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly remained largely professional, continuing to show up at Al Nassr’s facilities, the Portuguese star did miss the match against Al Riyadh and could be absent again for the game against Al Ittihad. Should the veteran decide to maintain his standoff with the PIF and the Saudi Pro League, the club could rely on two regulations to terminate his contract and could even be entitled to compensation.

According to the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, Article 17, Al Nassr could receive certain support in case Cristiano continues to be absent in more games: “The party that has suffered as a consequence of a breach of contract by the other party shall be entitled to receive compensation… compensation for breach shall be calculated by taking into account the damage suffered, in accordance with the principle of ‘positive interest’…”

As there is no direct issue with Al Nassr, the club could choose not to terminate his contract and instead seek Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to the team. However, his departure from the Saudi Pro League may not be ruled out if the situation with the PIF does not change. Even if he does return to compete in the games, the Portuguese star’s drama could still be far from over.

Inter Miami’s success last year in MLS has cemented them as the best team in the United States. However, that has not been enough for Lionel Messi‘s team to lead the overall Concacaf rankings, where clubs from other countries sit above them.

This week, Concacaf shared on its official website the updated rankings for clubs, leagues, and national teams, based on results from recent months. Messi’s team ranks third on the list, ahead of every other MLS club.

It’s clear that Inter Miami’s position is largely based on their recent MLS success, but it’s not the only factor. They were also Leagues Cup finalists and Concacaf Champions Cup semifinalists, in addition to participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where they reached the round of 16.

The top spot in the Concacaf rankings belongs to Deportivo Toluca, who won the last two Liga MX titles, Clausura 2025 and Apertura 2025. In second place is another Mexican team, Cruz Azul, after claiming the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup title with a 5-0 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final.

Thomas Muller’s team is the next highest MLS club in the ranking, placing fifth behind Tigres UANL. Other MLS clubs in the top ten include Columbus Crew, Los Angeles FC, and Seattle Sounders.

How the Concacaf rankings work

The Concacaf club rankings are calculated using a complex system that evaluates each club’s results, considering not only recent performance but also previous seasons. Performances in domestic leagues, national cups, continental tournaments, and global competitions are all taken into account.

“The updated ranking is based on the difference between the match’s outcome and its expected outcome,” the official Concacaf website explains. “Before the match, the expected outcome is calculated using the Concacaf Club Ranking scores of both teams and the home team’s advantage… The difference between actual and expected outcomes determines the number of points clubs earn or lose, with wins over stronger opponents resulting in greater increases. This self-correcting system ensures fairness.”

Other rankings published by Concacaf

In addition to the continental club rankings, Concacaf also released updates for other rankings. One is the league rankings, where Liga MX unsurprisingly remains at the top, reflecting the dominance of its clubs. MLS ranks just below, with a close point gap. Following them are the leagues of Costa Rica, Honduras, and Guatemala.

Another update presented by Concacaf is the national team rankings. Mexico sit at the top, supported by success in the 2025 Gold Cup despite some disappointing results in recent friendlies. Canada and Panama complete the top three, while the USMNT ranks fourth.

Match Overview

A place in the Carabao Cup final is on the line as these Premier League rivals meet in a decisive second leg with momentum favoring one side. Manchester City arrive in control after a 2–0 win in the first leg.

Newcastle, on the other hand, cling to belief as they look to overcome the deficit and pull off a season-defining comeback. With silverware at stake and no margin for error, this matchup promises nonstop drama—don’t miss a minute of the action.

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Karim Benzema has firmly established himself as a standout player in the Saudi Pro League. A controversial renewal offer from Al Ittihad, however, angered the Frenchman, leading him to join Al Hilal as a free agent. Simone Inzaghi’s team sees his arrival as a significant boost to their competitive edge. Yet, the club could soon lose one of its star strikers to a European team, as he faces losing his starting role.

According to Ben Jacobs, Darwin Núñez is open to leaving Al Hilal following Benzema’s arrival. In response, Fenerbahçe have initiated an inquiry with the Uruguayan’s camp as Youssef En-Nesyri was transferred to Al Ittihad. However, Núñez’s move remains uncertain as both sides have yet to reach a complete agreement, despite a proposed loan deal.

Despite arriving at the start of the 2025–26 season for $62 million from Liverpool, Darwin Núñez has failed to meet expectations at Al Hilal. After playing 22 matches, he has scored just seven goals and provided five assists. With Benzema’s arrival and Marcos Leonardo remaining at the club, the Uruguayan would drop to third choice in attack, likely being forced to play as a left winger, where he would compete with Salem Al Dawsari.

Rather than relegating Núñez to the bench, Al Hilal could be open to letting Darwin leave for Fenerbahce. At the Turkish club, he could become the starting center forward, as Jhon Jader Duran looks set to leave for Zenit, leaving the team without options. A loan move could prove mutually beneficial: Fenerbahce would secure a talented forward, while Al Hilal might enhance Núñez’s market value ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window.

Darwin Núñez shifts from promising forward to rotation player

Darwin Núñez made waves as one of the most promising strikers in European leagues during his tenure with Benfica. In 85 matches for the Portuguese club, the Uruguayan netted 48 goals and contributed 16 assists. His goal-scoring prowess and physical presence attracted Liverpool, who invested €85 million in his talents in 2022. Expected to be the ideal successor to Roberto Firmino, Núñez’s stint with the Reds has instead generated more questions than answers.

Over three full seasons, Núñez struggled to find his best form at Liverpool, surpassing the 10-goal mark only in the 2023-24 season. Facing a diminished role, the Uruguayan transferred to Al Hilal in search of a renaissance. However, he remains a rotation player, overshadowed by Marcos Leonardo. Should he miss out on a move to Fenerbahce, his tenure in Saudi Arabia could solidify his status as a secondary option, a far cry from the star who once dazzled in Portugal.

Neymar’s potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup has become one of the most debated topics surrounding the Brazil national team, as the forward has made it clear he hopes to feature in what would likely be his final appearance at the tournament. With his return to the Seleção still uncertain, a Brazilian legend delivered a blunt assessment, claiming that without Neymar, Brazil would become “just another team.”

Romário, who led Brazil to a memorable World Cup triumph in the United States in 1994, remains one of the most iconic figures in the country’s soccer history. A winner of two Copa América titles and a Confederations Cup, the former Barcelona and Valencia striker believes Neymar remains the centerpiece of Brazil’s current project.

In an interview with Veja Magazine, Romário did not hesitate to address the potential consequences of Neymar missing the World Cup: “Neymar’s absence is certainly very bad for Brazil. The sixth title will definitely be farther away. We can only hope he is physically well and able to give everything he has.“

Even acknowledging Neymar’s ongoing fitness concerns, Romário stressed that the Santos star remains a decisive figure regardless of his condition. “I don’t know if he’ll be able to be there without issues, but if Neymar is at 70 percent, that’s already good enough—he already helps, he already makes a difference,” he added.

The 1994 World Cup winner closed with his strongest statement yet, offering a stark view of Brazil without Neymar. “And without Neymar, the national team unfortunately becomes just another team,” Romário concluded, effectively removing Brazil from the list of clear favorites for the tournament set to be held in North America.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has already stated that Neymar remains an option for the World Cup, but only if he is fully fit. That stance contrasts with Romário’s belief that even a less-than-100-percent Neymar would still be capable of changing games, highlighting a difference in philosophy between the former striker and the Italian manager.

How has Brazil performed without Neymar?

Nearly two and a half years have passed since Neymar last wore the Brazil jersey, on October 17, 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL against Uruguay. Since then, the Seleção has undergone significant changes, both on the field and off it, including shifts in leadership and a noticeable decline in dominance.

Without Neymar, Brazil have played 26 matches across friendlies, the 2024 Copa América and CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers. During that stretch, the team recorded 11 wins, eight draws and seven losses, along with a quarterfinal exit at the Copa América against Uruguay, results that fall short of Brazil’s traditional standards in South America.

Brazil placed fifth in the World Cup qualifying standings, and under the previous format would have been facing the possibility of a playoff berth. Compounding the instability, four different coaches—Fernando Diniz, Dorival Júnior, interim manager Ramon Menezes and now Ancelotti—have occupied the dugout since Neymar’s injury, underscoring a turbulent period for the five-time world champions.

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.

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.

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”.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

“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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.