Reports indicate that Enzo Fernandez may not return to Chelsea next season, though the midfielder could find a new home with another Premier League heavyweight.

Enzo Fernandez is gearing up for the final matchday of the Premier League season as Chelsea prepare to visit Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Crucially, this fixture could very well mark the final time the Argentine international dons the Blues‘ shirt.

According to a report from Sky Sports insider Florian Plettenberg, the dynamic Argentine midfielder has emerged as a top summer transfer target for Manchester City.

Although Fernandez is under contract in West London until 2032, the player has previously left the door open regarding a potential departure in the upcoming window.

A potential move to Manchester could be significantly smoothed over once Enzo Maresca officially takes the reins at Manchester City. Following the confirmation that Pep Guardiola will leave the club after 10 illustrious seasons, Fabrizio Romano reported that City is poised to announce Maresca as their next manager.

Securing the Argentine’s services will not come cheap; the Citizens would likely need to shell out a staggering fee exceeding $110 million to facilitate the transfer. However, the viability of the entire operation may hinge entirely on the future of Spanish midfield anchor Rodri.

Rodri’s next move could unlock the Fernandez deal

One of the vital chess pieces that could fast-track Fernandez’s move to Manchester City is Rodri’s current situation. Real Madrid are reportedly keeping close tabs on the Spanish midfielder, who is said to be highly receptive to joining the Spanish giants this summer, according to Romano.

Nevertheless, the hierarchy at Real Madrid are carefully evaluating the financial mechanics of the deal, given that Rodri is slated to become a free agent in 2027. Should the Spaniard orchestrate an exit in the upcoming window, it would instantly clear both the tactical space and the necessary funds for City to aggressively pursue Fernandez.

Could Fernandez join Real Madrid instead?

In an intriguing twist, an alternative script for Fernandez’s future places him directly on Real Madrid’s radar instead of Rodri’s. According to a report from British outlet The Independent, the Spanish powerhouse could bypass the City anchor entirely and launch a bid for the Chelsea midfielder, who will take the pitch on Sunday against Sunderland in what increasingly looks like his Chelsea swansong.

Mexico are entering the final stretch of their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will face Ghana in an international friendly.

This Friday, Mexico will play another international friendly as they continue building match fitness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will serve as one of the three host nations. Their opponent will be Ghana at Estadio Cuauhtemoc in Puebla.

[Watch Mexico vs Ghana live in the US on Fubo]

For head coach Javier Aguirre, the match represents another opportunity to evaluate his players and gather enough information before selecting the final 26-man roster. FIFA set June 1 as the deadline for all participating nations to submit their squads.

That means Mexico will have one more friendly, in addition to this match against Ghana, before Aguirre must finalize the squad. On Saturday, May 30, they will face Australia at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Then, with the 26-player roster already confirmed, they will play one final warmup match against Serbia on June 4.

After that, Mexico will have just one week left to prepare for their World Cup opener. On June 11, they will play in the opening match of the tournament at Estadio Azteca against South Africa in Group A, which also includes the Czech Republic and South Korea.

Projected Mexico lineup vs Ghana

Javier Aguirre will not have all of his players available this Friday, considering that several of Mexico’s top stars who play abroad are still committed to their club schedules. That is the case for Raul Jimenez at Fulham, who will play their final Premier League match of the season this Sunday against Newcastle.

Given that situation, the projected XI to face Ghana is: Raul Rangel; Jorge Sanchez, Israel Reyes, Alejandro Gomez, Jesus Gallardo; Edson Alvarez, Brian Gutierrez, Gilberto Mora; Alexis Vega, Roberto Alvarado, Armando Gonzalez.

Projected Ghana lineup

For Ghana, the match against Mexico is also a valuable test ahead of the World Cup. Their challenge will be advancing out of Group L, which they share with England, Croatia and Panama. The latter will be their opponent in the opener on June 17 at BMO Field in Toronto.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz’s projected XI to face Mexico this Friday is: Benjamin Asare; Dacosta Antwi, Nathaniel Adjei, Terry Yegbe, Jan Kwasi Gyamerah; Majeed Ashimeru, Salim Adams, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Aziz Issah, Ibrahim Osman, Felix Afena-Gyan.

Amid his exit from Manchester City, Pep Guardiola was hailed by Luis Enrique.

There were some rumors about Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City the day his team lost the Premier League in a draw with Bournemouth. Even if he tried to deny them, just a few days later it was confirmed he is leaving the club. However, Luis Enrique doesn’t think it is going to be for long as he detailed in an interview with Movistar Plus.

Luis Enrique said: “We practically don’t even talk about soccer. But I don’t believe it, and I also don’t want to believe it because I’d like him to stay for many more years. He always asked me, when I was coaching the national team, what that itch of being an [international] manager feels like. I don’t think it will be with Italy, but we also can’t rule it out.”

It is clear that the manager wasn’t expecting this, but he has much bigger plans with his Paris Saint-Germain trying to repeat as Champions League winners against Arsenal next Saturday, May 30 in Hungary.

Luis Enrique considers Guardiola the best

Even if they haven’t been rivals throughout their managerial careers, they have many things in common. Both being icons for Barcelona when they were players, they are also the last two managers who won the Champions League with that club.

😅 "¿La salida de Guardiola del City? No me lo creo, no me lo creo…"

"Para mí es el mejor entrenador de todos los tiempos".

🎙️ Luis Enrique, con @m_marchante sobre el futuro del técnico de Sampedor. #LaCasaDelFútbol #UCL pic.twitter.com/AK3uGAOupy

— Movistar Plus Deportes (@MPlusDeportes) May 21, 2026

This connection can be seen in the brand of play they propose, with teams eager to attack all the time while having a strong desire to recover the ball as quickly as possible, although Luis Enrique recognizes Guardiola as the greatest.

Luis Enrique said: “I’d like to see Pep for many more years where he is, at the top level, because he’s a reference point. To me, he’s the greatest manager of all time. Not because of the number of trophies, who cares about the number of trophies? It is because of what he transmits, how he has changed the game, how he dares to move center backs or fullbacks into central areas. One day he’ll put center backs on top of the goal, and everyone will start copying him. Very few people have that ability, only the chosen ones, and in that, he is number one.”

Luis Enrique in Paris

While Luis Enrique hailed Guardiola as the best manager of all time, there is no denying this is his moment after building a dominant Paris Saint-Germain side that is now looking to win its 12th title under him. So far, Luis Enrique has led the club to 1 UEFA Champions League, 1 UEFA Super Cup, 1 FIFA Intercontinental Cup, 3 Ligue 1 titles, 2 Coupes de France, and 3 Trophées des Champions.

Vinicius Junior reached a milestone achieved by only Cristiano Ronaldo and a handful of other legends in Real Madrid history. Against Athletic Club this weekend, the Brazilian winger could also set another personal record.

Despite Real Madrid’s turbulent 2025-26 season, Vinicius Junior delivered several standout performances and made key contributions across all competitions. That allowed him to match a feat previously achieved by Cristiano Ronaldo, and this weekend he could reach another milestone against Athletic Club.

This season, Vini recorded 20 or more goals for the fifth consecutive year, something only seven other players in Real Madrid history had accomplished, according to Diario AS. Cristiano Ronaldo is obviously one of them, having done it in all nine seasons he spent at the club between 2009 and 2018. Not only that, but he scored fewer than 40 goals just once — in his debut season.

The player with the record for the most consecutive seasons with at least 20 goals for Real Madrid is Alfredo Di Stefano. The Argentine legend achieved the feat in 10 straight seasons between 1953 and 1963. Only in his final year at the club did he fall short of the mark, scoring 17 goals during the 1963-64 campaign.

The other players to accomplish the same feat were Manuel Fernandez Pahino (1948-1953), Ferenc Puskas (1958-1964), Hugo Sanchez (1985-1990), Raul Gonzalez (1998-2004) and Karim Benzema, who is the only player to score 20 or more goals in at least five consecutive seasons on more than one occasion: first between 2010 and 2016, and later between 2018 and 2023.

Vinicius can improve his best scoring season at Real Madrid

This season, Vinicius has recorded 22 goals and 14 assists in 53 matches across La Liga, Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup and the UEFA Champions League. That leaves him just two goals shy of his career-best mark of 24, set during the 2023-24 season.

Real Madrid have only one game left this season. On Saturday, they will close out their La Liga campaign by hosting Athletic Bilbao at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. A brace would allow the Brazilian winger to match his best scoring season, while a hat trick would give him a new personal record.

However, his current situation could work against that goal. According to Marca, Vini has missed training sessions this week after receiving permission from Real Madrid to rest before joining the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That puts his availability for Saturday’s clash against Athletic in doubt and, therefore, also his chances of setting a new personal scoring record.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix finally brought the Saudi Pro League title back to Al-Nassr after years of frustration, but one surprising statistic from the campaign quietly highlighted how influential the younger Portuguese forward became during the club’s championship run. While Ronaldo delivered decisive goals and leadership throughout the season, Felix ended the year with […]

Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix finally brought the Saudi Pro League title back to Al-Nassr after years of frustration, but one surprising statistic from the campaign quietly highlighted how influential the younger Portuguese forward became during the club’s championship run. While Ronaldo delivered decisive goals and leadership throughout the season, Felix ended the year with a key achievement that placed him ahead of his legendary teammate in one important category.

The Riyadh club sealed the title on the final day of the season with a dominant 4-1 victory over Damac, as Ronaldo scored twice to secure the championship ahead of Al Hilal. The triumph ended Al-Nassr’s seven-year wait for the Saudi Pro League crown and handed Ronaldo his first league title since arriving in the Middle East in 2023.

For Cristiano Ronaldo, the moment carried enormous significance after several painful near-misses in previous seasons. Since leaving Europe for Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese icon had experienced squad rebuilds, coaching changes, and heartbreaking defeats despite producing extraordinary individual numbers.

His influence on Saudi soccer has been undeniable ever since his arrival opened the door for several global stars to join the league. Yet despite winning individual honors and finishing as top scorer in previous campaigns, the league title had remained elusive until now.

Under Jorge Jesus, however, Al-Nassr finally found the balance it had been missing. The Portuguese coach brought stability to the dressing room, improved the defensive structure, and built a more varied attack that no longer depended entirely on the 41-year-old ace.

Joao Felix becomes a decisive figure

Much of that attacking transformation came from the arrival of Joao Felix. The Portuguese forward quickly formed a strong understanding with Ronaldo and became one of the standout performers of the season.

Felix finished the campaign with 20 league goals and 13 assists, while producing 44 goal contributions across all competitions in just 47 appearances. He scored in every major tournament Al-Nassr participated in, including the Saudi Pro League, King’s Cup, Saudi Super Cup, and AFC Champions League.

Alongside Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Kingsley Coman, Felix gave Al-Nassr multiple attacking options that opponents struggled to contain. His creativity between the lines and ability to decide matches in crucial moments proved vital during the title race.

The hidden mark Felix surpassed

As the season came to a close, another statistic emerged that underlined Felix’s growing importance within the squad. The Portuguese attacker ended the Saudi Pro League campaign with nine Man of the Match awards, narrowly ahead of Ronaldo’s total of eight.

The award distribution showcased how consistently influential Felix had been throughout the year. Sadio Mane finished third among Al-Nassr players with five awards, while Kingsley Coman earned two. According to reports tracking official Saudi Pro League matchday recognitions, the full distribution among Al-Nassr players was:

Rank	Player	Goals
1.	Joao Felix	9
2.	Cristiano Ronaldo	8
3.	Sadio Mane	5
4.	Kingsley Coman	2
5.	Inigo Martinez, Mohamed Simakan, Abdulrahman Ghareeb, Angelo Gabriel	1

Cristian Romero will not be in attendance at the stadium for Tottenham’s high-stakes Premier League relegation-decider against Everton, a situation that head coach Roberto De Zerbi has now addresses head-on.

Tottenham are playing for their top-flight survival this weekend as they host Everton on the final matchday of the Premier League season. For this critical fixture, Spurs will be without their captain, Cristian Romero, due to a severe injury.

However, the defender has found himself at the center of a heated debate among supporters after it was revealed he will not even be inside the stadium to support his teammates.

Amidst this turbulent period for Tottenham, the center-back returned to Argentina to continue his rehabilitation process. Controversy ignited when it was confirmed that Romero will instead be in attendance this Sunday for the Argentine league final, where his boyhood club, Belgrano, face off against River Plate—a move that has sparked immense frustration among the Spurs faithful.

Stepping into the storm, manager Roberto De Zerbi addressed the situation, firmly stating that Romero’s return to South America was strictly a medical decision. “Romero spoke with the medical staff and together they decided to go to Argentina to complete the rehab with Argentinian medical staff,” the Italian tactician stated in his pre-match press conference.

Furthermore, De Zerbi made it clear that Romero’s physical presence at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday would have no bearing on the final score. “The decision was with the medical staff and I think he can’t change anything if he’s at the stadium or not. Finally, I have no time to lose energy other than on the game,” he added defensively.

Romero keeps his focus on the 2026 World Cup

Romero has been sidelined for just over a month after suffering a sprained medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee during a painful 1-0 defeat against Sunderland.

The injury undoubtedly set off alarm bells within Lionel Scaloni’s coaching staff. With less than a month to go before the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup, Argentina can ill afford to lose one of their undisputed starting center-backs.

Recognizing the stakes, the president of Belgrano confirmed that Romero has actually been training at the Argentine club’s facilities, completely locked in on accelerating his recovery to ensure he arrives in North America at peak fitness.

Will Romero leave Tottenham this summer?

“Cuti” Romero’s name was heavily featured in the rumor mill during the previous transfer window, with multiple high-profile reports positioning him as a primary target to reinforce Real Madrid’s backline.

With Sunday’s crucial match set to decide Tottenham’s top-flight future—and inevitably dictate the futures of several key players—De Zerbi admitted he is in the dark regarding what next season holds for his captain. “I don’t know,” the Italian coach responded candidly when questioned about Romero’s long-term future in North London.

“I think Cristian is a top player and with me he was a top guy. And when I say top guy, it’s because I’m sure of what I’m saying. For the future, I don’t know. Sunday is a crucial game for us, for our future, for our fans, for our club and we have to stay together,” the manager concluded.

Yet while Ronaldo’s dominance once again captured global attention, many fans were left wondering one thing: Where did Lionel Messi finish on the list?

Cristiano Ronaldo has climbed back to the summit of world sport in spectacular fashion after another extraordinary year in Saudi Arabia. In addition to finally bringing home the league trophy for the club, the iconic Portuguese hero has reached yet another milestone in his illustrious career, leading Forbes‘ list of the highest-paid sportsmen in 2026 with an incredible $300 million. Yet while Ronaldo’s dominance once again captured global attention, many fans were left wondering one thing: Where did Lionel Messi finish on the list?

At 41 years old, Ronaldo continues to rewrite expectations about longevity in elite football. The veteran forward not only guided Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title, but also matched one of the biggest financial records in sports history with earnings that tied Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s 2015 figure for the highest annual income ever recorded for an active athlete by Forbes.

According to Forbes, the Portuguese superstar earned $235 million on the field through his contract in Saudi Arabia, while another $65 million arrived from endorsements, sponsorships, appearances, licensing deals, and business ventures. His enormous global influence, amplified by more than a billion followers across social media platforms, continues to make him one of the most marketable figures in sport.

Ronaldo’s Saudi success brings historic rewards

Ronaldo’s latest achievement came shortly after captaining the club to its first league championship in seven years. The 41-year-old veteran scored twice in a dramatic final-day victory that sealed the title and completed another memorable chapter in his career. The triumph also marked the first time Ronaldo had won a domestic league title in the Saudi Pro League, adding yet another country to a career already filled with trophies in England, Spain, and Italy.

Forbes noted that the Portuguese forward has now finished first on the publication’s rich list six times overall, placing him level with NBA legend Michael Jordan and behind only Tiger Woods, who topped the ranking 11 times. “For the fourth year in a row, and the sixth time overall, Ronaldo leads the athlete income ranking”, the report said.

The financial numbers behind his rise are staggering. Since moving to Saudi Arabia in 2023, Ronaldo’s on-field earnings have reportedly more than tripled compared to the final years of his second spell in England. His influence stretches far beyond football, with partnerships involving brands such as Nike, Binance, Herbalife, and several technology companies.

Lionel Messi’s position finally revealed

While Ronaldo sits comfortably at No. 1, Lionel Messi also remains near the very top of the global earnings landscape. The Argentine superstar finished third overall with $140 million, behind only his Portuguese rival and boxer Canelo Alvarez.

Messi’s income was split evenly between on-field and off-field earnings, with $70 million coming from soccer and another $70 million generated commercially. His unique agreements involving Adidas and Apple TV reportedly continue to boost his earnings beyond his standard playing salary.

Rank	Athlete	Earnings
1.	Cristiano Ronaldo	$300 million
2.	Canelo Alvarez	$170 million
3.	Lionel Messi	$140 million
4.	LeBron James	$137.8 million
5	Shohei Ohtani	$127.6 million
6.	Stephen Curry	$124.7 million
7.	Jon Rahm	$107 million
8.	Karim Benzema	$104 million
9.	Kevin Durant	$103.8 million
10.	Lewis Hamilton	$100 million

The Inter Miami forward remains the face of soccer in the United States and recently extended his stay with the club through the 2028 MLS season. Forbes also highlighted Messi’s extraordinary impact on American soccer, revealing that his guaranteed compensation exceeds the payroll of almost every other MLS team.

“Messi reached 100 combined goals and assists in his 64th regular-season MLS match this month—31 games faster than any player in league history”, the report said. Beyond soccer, the Argentine ace has expanded his business portfolio with investments in Spain, including the purchase of lower-division side Cornella and several real-estate ventures in Barcelona.

Roberto Martinez has reportedly emerged as a top candidate to succeed Jorge Jesus at Al Nassr, paving the way for a potential reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo as the club's ambitious dreams of landing Pep Guardiola begin to fade.

Following the 4-1 victory by Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr over Damac to clinch the Saudi Pro League title, head coach Jorge Jesus announced his departure from the club ahead of next season. With a high-profile vacancy now open, the Saudi powerhouse is already aggressively hunting for a successor, positioning Roberto Martinez as a frontrunner while hopes of landing Pep Guardiola rapidly fade.

Manchester City recently confirmed Guardiola‘s exit after 10 illustrious seasons at the helm, and reports from Al-Youm indicate that Al Nassr was ready to tempt the Spanish tactician with a record-breaking salary to secure his services.

Furthermore, Saudi media outlet Okaz Sports revealed that Guardiola’s agent, Josep Maria Orobitg, confirmed receiving an official inquiry from Al Nassr roughly a month and a half ago. However, during his pre-match press conference ahead of the Aston Villa fixture, Guardiola strongly hinted that he intends to take an extended sabbatical from coaching.

With Guardiola seemingly out of reach, the same outlet reports that Roberto Martinez has positioned himself as a highly viable alternative. The current Portugal national team manager is expected to step down from his post following the conclusion of his contract after the 2026 World Cup, paving the way for a potential blockbuster reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.

The Ronaldo factor gives Martinez a distinct edge

The pivotal X-factor working in Martinez’s favor is his exceptional relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Spanish strategist took over the Portuguese national team in early 2023 and has since overseen 38 matches, racking up an impressive record of 24 wins, four draws, and just six defeats.

Guardiola distances himself from Al Nassr links

Despite the formal contact between Al Nassr and Guardiola’s camp, the manager himself has heavily implied that a break from the dugout is non-negotiable after ten grueling seasons shifting the landscape of English soccer with Manchester City. “I need to step back. I will not train for a while,” the Spaniard confirmed during his press conference, effectively cooling down Al Nassr’s immediate hopes.

After a decade filled with trophies, tactical revolutions, and relentless success, the Spaniard now prepares to take the next step as the soccer world wonders what comes next for the coach who changed the modern game forever.

Pep Guardiola has officially confirmed that his remarkable era with Manchester City is coming to an end, closing one of the most dominant managerial reigns England has ever witnessed. After a decade filled with trophies, tactical revolutions, and relentless success, the Spaniard now prepares to take the next step as the soccer world wonders what comes next for the coach who changed the modern game forever.

The announcement immediately sent shockwaves across the Premier League, with rivals, supporters, and former players reflecting on Guardiola’s enormous impact. From transforming Manchester City into a global powerhouse to forcing every title challenger to raise its standards, Guardiola leaves behind a legacy that stretches far beyond silverware.

When he arrived in England in 2016 after successful spells with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, many questioned whether his style could survive the intensity of the Premier League. Ten years later, those doubts feel almost impossible to remember.

Under the Spaniard, Manchester City collected 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League crown, multiple domestic cups, and a historic continental treble in 2023. More importantly, the club became the benchmark every rival desperately tried to reach.

Beyond trophies, Guardiola’s greatest contribution may be the way he reshaped soccer thinking in England. His positional play, use of inverted full-backs, and constant tactical experimentation influenced managers across the league and even grassroots soccer.

Guardiola explains why the time felt right

The emotional weight of Guardiola’s departure became clear during his final press conference before facing Aston Villa. The City manager admitted the decision had been building internally for quite some time. “I am really satisfied, I don’t know the right words. Happy, proud. The experience of my life,” he said.

The Spaniard also revealed the emotional toll of coaching continuously for nearly two decades. “I need to breathe a little bit and relax. It’ll be a while, that is my feeling right now,” he explained.

The 55-year-old stressed that the club also needed a fresh voice moving forward. “I think the club needs a new manager, new energy with these incredible players that we have right now, and you start to write another chapter,” he said.

What Guardiola’s future now looks like

While speculation immediately linked Guardiola with several national teams and elite clubs around Europe, the Spaniard ruled out an immediate return to coaching after leaving Manchester City. Instead, he plans to step away from the constant pressure of the touchline after years of managing matches every few days. “Rest. No plans to train for a while. Otherwise, I would be here. I need to step back. I will not train for a while,” Guardiola confirmed.

At the same time, Manchester City announced that the manager will remain connected to the wider City Football Group structure as a Global Ambassador. In that role, he is expected to offer technical guidance and support projects involving clubs such as New York City, Girona, and Yokohama F. Marinos.

Guardiola made it clear he wanted to stay emotionally tied to the organization even if he is no longer making daily soccer decisions. “I would love to continue to be part of this club. Not manager action, I will take absolutely zero decisions in that. Just to be part of the club,” he explained.

The Citizens are already preparing major tributes to honour Guardiola’s contribution. They have officially confirmed that a stand at the Etihad Stadium will carry his name, while a statue is also planned outside the ground.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s success with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League moved him closer to yet another record.

This week, Cristiano Ronaldo finally ended his drought of official titles with Al Nassr by winning the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title. The achievement also brought him closer to another milestone in his professional career.

Ronaldo has now won league titles in four different countries, something not many players in soccer history have accomplished. However, that is still not enough to set a new record, as several stars have managed to win league championships in five different countries.

The only league where CR7 played without winning the title was Portugal’s Primeira Liga. He spent just one season there, during the 2002-03 campaign, when Sporting CP finished third in the standings behind Porto and Benfica.

In England, Ronaldo won the Premier League three consecutive times with Manchester United in 2007, 2008 and 2009. He later carried that success to Spain, winning two La Liga titles with Real Madrid in 2012 and 2017. Finally, with Juventus, he lifted Italy’s Serie A trophy in 2019 and 2020.

Cristiano Ronaldo has now won league titles in 4️⃣ different countries 🏆🌍

🇸🇦 #RoshnSaudiLeague 🆕 🏆
Premier League🏆🏆🏆
La Liga🏆🏆
Serie A🏆🏆

Serial winner. pic.twitter.com/umWa1JmdEV

— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) May 22, 2026

Other players who won league titles in four different countries

With the Saudi Pro League title, Cristiano Ronaldo joined an exclusive group of stars who have won league championships in four different countries. Unsurprisingly, most of those cases are relatively recent, considering that rules regarding the number of foreign players clubs can sign have become more flexible over the years.

Arjen Robben won league titles in the Netherlands (PSV Eindhoven), England (Chelsea), Spain (Real Madrid) and Germany (Bayern Munich). Rivaldo achieved the feat in Brazil (Palmeiras), Spain (Barcelona), Greece (Olympiacos) and Uzbekistan (Bunyodkor). Deco also did it in Portugal (Porto), Spain (Barcelona), England (Chelsea) and Brazil (Fluminense). Other players to accomplish it include Mark van Bommel, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Jiri Jarosik.

The record of five different league titles

At 41 years old, and with a contract at Al Nassr running through June 30, 2027, it is difficult to imagine Cristiano Ronaldo taking on a new challenge in another country. That makes a fifth different league title — which would tie the all-time record — highly unlikely.

For now, only a select few players hold that mark. One of them is Joao Cancelo, who won league titles in Portugal (Benfica), Italy (Juventus), England (Manchester City), Germany (Bayern Munich) and Spain (Barcelona). Another active player with that record is Danilo, who achieved it in Brazil (Flamengo), Portugal (Porto), Spain (Real Madrid), Italy (Juventus) and England (Manchester City). Other examples include Robinho and Mateja Kezman.

While dealing with an minor injury, Santos' medical staff expect Neymar to be "fully fit" for Brazil camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar‘s week has carried a bittersweet quality, marked by a fresh injury on one hand and a coveted call-up to Brazil‘s 2026 World Cup squad on the other. With questions swirling around his physical condition, Santos‘ medical staff has moved to ease concerns, stating that Neymar is expected to be fully fit when the Selecao’s training camp begins.

On Monday, Carlo Ancelotti formally unveiled the 26-man roster that will represent Brazil in North America. The moment Neymar’s name was read aloud at the Museu do Amanhã in Rio de Janeiro, a standing ovation broke out in the room, marking his first call-up since the Italian took charge of the national team.

The day before the announcement, Santos hosted Coritiba in a match that ended with Neymar at the center of a controversial substitution mix-up that saw him removed from the game against his will. Santos head coach Cuca subsequently confirmed that Neymar would miss Wednesday’s Copa Sudamericana clash against San Lorenzo due to a knock sustained in that match, once again raising concerns about his fitness at a critical time.

With the Santos forward sidelined from the midweek fixture, Rodrigo Zogaib, coordinator of Santos’s health department, addressed the issue directly in an interview with Globo Esporte: “Neymar has a minor injury in his calf, an edema. The plan, following his recovery progress, is to deliver him fully fit to the CBF next week.“

According to the Brazilian outlet, the edema sustained during the Coritiba match is only a few millimeters in size. While caution around Neymar’s physical condition has become something of a standard operating procedure for both the player and the club, this particular issue is expected to require between five and ten days of treatment.

Neymar is also set to miss Saturday’s match against Gremio, with Santos hopeful he can feature in their final Copa Sudamericana group stage fixture against Deportivo Cuenca on Tuesday, May 26. However, with Brazil’s World Cup preparations beginning almost immediately after, reports from Globo Esporte suggest a return to Santos’ lineup is highly unlikely before he joins up with the national team.

What’s next for Neymar and Brazil?

Closely monitored by both Santos’ medical staff and the Brazilian Football Confederation, Neymar and the rest of the squad are scheduled to report to Brazil’s training camp on May 27 without restrictions, at which point Ancelotti will begin his final preparations for the tournament.

Brazil will send off their home fans with a friendly against Panama on May 31 at the Estadio do Maracana in Rio de Janeiro before traveling to the United States to face Egypt in another warmup match in Cleveland, Ohio, on June 6. The Selecao then open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13, face Haiti on the 19th and close out the group stage against Scotland on the 24th, with fans around the world eagerly anticipating the sight of Neymar back in the iconic yellow jersey for the first time since 2023.

Joao Felix reflected on Al Nassr's Saudi Pro League title and the impact on Cristiano Ronaldo, stating "I know how much Cristiano Ronaldo suffers with this."

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally ended his trophy drought at Al Nassr after a hard-fought 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season that went down to the wire against Al Hilal. In the aftermath of the triumph, Portugal teammate Joao Felix opened up about the victory and what it meant to watch Ronaldo fight for that moment, saying “I know how much Cristiano Ronaldo suffers with this.“

Felix was one of last summer’s most high-profile signings at Al Nassr, with Ronaldo playing a direct role in convincing the club to pursue the deal and personally persuading Felix to make the move to Saudi Arabia. Having shared a dressing room with Ronaldo through the Portugal national team, the bond between the two deepened further through the daily grind of club life in the Middle East, and both men were ultimately part of a long-awaited triumph.

Speaking to Sport TV, Felix reflected candidly on the significance of the title for Ronaldo. “Cris has been trying for a few years now to win his first title here. To win the league, especially, because in Arabia they play more, and I know because I’m with him every single day,” he said.

Among the most powerful moments of the celebration was the sight of Ronaldo in tears, first after scoring his second goal against Damac FC and then on the substitutes’ bench after being replaced, a scene Felix chose to address directly. “And I know how much Cristiano suffers with this. I knew how much he wanted to win. That’s why I went to give him a hug. Because it was like, just a few more minutes and we had it done,” he added.

With the Saudi Pro League title now in his collection, Ronaldo has added yet another trophy to one of the most decorated careers in the history of the game, and the first since turning 41 back in February. With the 2026 World Cup now on the horizon with Portugal, his passion for the game remains as visible as ever, something his teammates at Al Nassr have witnessed first-hand throughout a relentless pursuit of this title.

Joao Felix and a transformative first season at Al Nassr

Following a lack of consistent playing time at Chelsea and a difficult loan spell at AC Milan the previous season, Felix had been widely expected to leave Stamford Bridge last summer. Ronaldo saw an opportunity, called the player directly, and convinced him that Al Nassr would give him not only a key role in a title-contending squad but also the minutes necessary to remain in Roberto Martínez’s Portugal plans for the 2026 World Cup.

In a deal worth €30 million, Felix made the move to Riyadh, and operating as the No. 10 behind Ronaldo, he delivered one of the standout individual seasons across all competitions, posting 26 goals and 18 assists across 47 appearances. Of those assists, six went directly to Ronaldo, a reflection of how naturally the chemistry they had built on the international stage translated to a synergy in the club.

While Ronaldo finished as Al Nassr’s top scorer, Felix led the team in assists and finished the season with 44 direct goal contributions, more than any other player at the club. Al Nassr claimed the SPL title for the first time since 2019, and Felix has since been named in Martínez’s Portugal squad, with the 2026 World Cup now his next major objective.

Jorge Jesus will no longer coach Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr following the Saudi Pro League title.

Al Nassr ended a seven-year title drought by winning the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League under the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the celebrations were tempered by the announcement that head coach Jorge Jesus will leave the club.

“For me, it’s over. It’s the last game I worked for Al-Nassr,” Jesus said moments after Thursday’s match against Damac during an interview with Canal GOAT. “I’m leaving, that’s the point. It’s over.”

The comments confirm speculation that had circulated in recent weeks regarding the 71-year-old coach, who reportedly wants to pursue a different path in his career, with the Portugal national team viewed as a possible destination.

Jorge Jesus also addressed his immediate plans after leaving Saudi Arabia, though he limited his comments to discussing his upcoming travels. “I’m going to Portugal, I’m going to spend two or four days on vacation in Portugal. Then I’m thinking of going to Brazil, I’m thinking of going to Rio,” he said, before clarifying: “Not to train. I’m only going to Brazil for vacation.”

JORGE JESUS NÃO FICA NO AL NASSR! ELE VEM PARA O BRASIL! ✈️🇧🇷

Em entrevista ao @vinisiupe, Jorge Jesus disse que foi seu último jogo pelo Al Nassr e que vem ao Brasil tirar férias!#CanalGOAT #SauditaNoGOAT #JorgeJesus pic.twitter.com/HWcOcz4hBF

— Canal GOAT (@CanalGOATBR) May 21, 2026

Jorge Jesus reflects on Al Nassr’s title

Al Nassr prepared last summer with the goal of reaching this moment of celebration. To do so, the club invested in several high-profile signings from Europe, including Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, and Inigo Martinez. Alongside them arrived Jorge Jesus, who already had experience in the Saudi Pro League after previously coaching Al Hilal.

“When I accepted this challenge, I knew it was difficult because on the other side was Al-Hilal, which I practically helped build into a great team. And to beat Al-Hilal we had to be much better. And we were, because we formed a very united group,” the coach reflected during the same interview with Canal GOAT.

Jorge Jesus reveals conversation with Ronaldo upon joining Al Nassr

When he joined Al Nassr, Jesus had an important conversation with Cristiano Ronaldo. “I only accepted this challenge because I told him: ‘I’m going to help you become champion, we’re going to win the title,” the coach recalled.

“This is a victory for everyone, and especially for Cris, who hadn’t yet won any titles in Saudi Arabia,” Jorge Jesus added before reflecting on Ronaldo’s impact at the club. “Cris has made Al-Nassr have a very large dimension not only in Saudi Arabia, but outside of Saudi Arabia as well.”

Cristiano Ronaldo has captured his first official silverware with Al Nassr, bringing an end to a stubborn five-year club title drought that has followed the Portuguese superstar.

Cristiano Ronaldo spearheaded Al Nassr’s charge to the Saudi Pro League championship, netting a crucial brace in a commanding 4-1 victory over Damac on the final matchday of the season. Beyond securing his first piece of official silverware since arriving in Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese icon successfully snapped a frustrating five-year drought without a club trophy.

By clinching the league crown with Al Nassr, Ronaldo put an end to his long silverware dry spell, having last tasted club glory back in 2021 during his stint with Juventus. On that occasion, La Vecchia Signora defeated Atalanta 2-1 to lift the Coppa Italia—marking Cristiano’s final official club trophy before hoisting this year’s Saudi Pro League title.

This latest triumph serves as a massive relief for the legendary forward, as glory with Al Nassr had repeatedly eluded him. Ronaldo had to endure a wait of three years and four months to secure his first official trophy in Saudi Arabia.

Previously, the Al Nassr captain missed out on three domestic league campaigns and finishing as a runner-up in four consecutive major finals: the King’s Cup (2023-24), back-to-back Saudi Super Cups (2024-25 and 2025-26), and the recent AFC Champions League Two (2026).

Cristiano wins four league titles in different countries

With his latest domestic triumph, Cristiano Ronaldo has accomplished an impressive feat, now boasting league championship medals in four different countries. Alongside his new Saudi Pro League title, the forward won the Premier League with Manchester United, LaLiga with Real Madrid, and Serie A with Juventus.

While a notable number of players have won top-flight leagues across four different nations throughout soccer history, some of the most prominent and iconic names to achieve this feat include:

• Zlatan Ibrahimovic: Netherlands (Ajax), Italy (Juventus/Inter/Milan), Spain (Barcelona), and France (PSG).
• Joao Cancelo: Italy (Juventus), England (Manchester City), Germany (Bayern Munich), and Spain (Barcelona).
• David Beckham: England (Manchester United), Spain (Real Madrid), United States (LA Galaxy), and France (PSG).
• Arjen Robben: Netherlands (PSV), England (Chelsea), Spain (Real Madrid), and Germany (Bayern Munich).
• Carlos Tevez: Argentina (Boca Juniors), Brazil (Corinthians), England (Manchester United/Manchester City), and Italy (Juventus).

Players who have won leagues in five different countries

Only a select few have managed to push that boundary even further to span five different countries. Mateja Kezman found domestic success in Serbia (Partizan Belgrade), the Netherlands (PSV Eindhoven), England (Chelsea), Turkey (Fenerbahce), and Belarus (BATE Borisov).

Brazilian forward Robinho won league crowns in his native country with Santos, in Spain with Real Madrid, in Italy with AC Milan, in China with Guangzhou Evergrande, and capped it off in Turkey with Istanbul Basaksehir.

The latest to achieve this historic feat was Danilo, who captured league titles in Portugal with Porto, Spain with Real Madrid, England with Manchester City, and Italy with Juventus, before completing the five-country milestone by winning the Brasileirão title in Brazil with Flamengo.

Amid the rumored exit of Manchester City for Pep Guardiola, Fabio Capello doesn't think he would be the ideal manager for Italy.

Italy’s struggles may not be over after failing under Gennaro Gattuso to qualify for the World Cup. This was their third consecutive elimination, which opened up the Italy job. Pep Guardiola has been linked with the position amid rumors he could leave Manchester City, but Fabio Capello explained in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport why he would not be the best fit.

Capello said: “He is a great coach with great qualities. He always manages to do very well everywhere at club level. The national team is a different job. You do not work every day, and that is exactly where the difficulty lies: you are not a coach, you are a national team manager.”

The veteran coach knows very well the differences between managing a national team and working at a club, having led England and Russia after beginning his career with giants like Real Madrid, Milan and Juventus.

Capello on Manchester City’s power

The Italian manager was right that the job is completely different at a club than at a national team. Even if he did not mention Manchester City directly, he was critical of Guardiola’s ability to sign players before praising his coaching ability.

For the former manager, the main challenge would be adapting to the lack of depth he might face at the national team level, which would be the complete opposite of a club where he can get almost any player he wants.

Capello said: “We are talking about a great coach, but one who is used to saying things like, ‘I need two midfielders,’ and then the club buys them for him. Here, you do not find them that easily, and that is the difference. The team has to improve in a different way. But the results speak for themselves and show everything he has achieved. It would be something new, and because he is an intelligent person, it is possible he would quickly understand how to do it.”

Capello on Italy’s pressure

What has been clear about the recent failures of a country that has won four World Cups in its history is that the pressure on the players has been too much. Even if the last few generations have not been as talented as some of the past ones, the psychological pressure has also been a huge burden.

Capello said: “You must be good at finding the right players who can truly perform for the Azzurri the same way they do for their clubs, because that is exactly the problem. Many players struggle under the pressure of wearing the Italy shirt.”

Cristiano Ronaldo wrote the 65th free-kick goal of his career against Damac FC in Al Nassr's win, but is still trailing Lionel Messi in the standings.

Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed the headlines once again on Thursday, leading Al Nassr to the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title with a decisive brace in a 4-1 victory over Damac FC. With his first goal of the evening, the Portuguese icon reached 65 career free-kick goals, though he still trails the historic record of his long-time rival, Lionel Messi.

Al Nassr entered the match needing a win to prevent Al Hilal from snatching the league trophy out of their hands, and the home fans finally found relief once Ronaldo made his mark on the scoresheet. After Joao Felix was brought down on the flank, Ronaldo took charge of the set piece from a narrow angle, drilling a powerful 63rd-minute strike that skipped off the turf and eluded the entire defense to extend the lead to 3-1.

The strike marked the 65th free-kick goal of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career and his sixth since joining Al Nassr. Even with the milestone, he remains a few tallies away from matching the benchmark established by Lionel Messi.

The Argentine playmaker currently holds a record of 71 free-kick goals across club and international play. Messi has already added two free-kick goals to his tally for Inter Miami, scoring against cross-state rivals Orlando City and New York City FC, while Ronaldo’s strike against Damac on Thursday was his first of the year.

While the gap between the two icons stands at six, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to climb the ranks of soccer’s historic set-piece specialists. The Portuguese forward has now equaled the career record of England legend David Beckham (65) and sits just one behind Brazilian icon Ronaldinho (66), giving him plenty of room to further cement his legacy.

Ronaldo snaps trophy and free-kick droughts

As the final whistle blew on Thursday, television cameras caught an emotional Ronaldo breaking down in tears, celebrating the end of a frustrating trophy drought with Al Nassr. Beyond the SPL triumph, the spectacular free kick also brought a personal multi-year drought to a definitive end.

The goal against Damac FC was Ronaldo’s first successful free kick since hitting the back of the net against Al Fayha back on August 27, 2024. Following that curling effort to the right side of the net, it took the forward exactly one year, eight months, and 23 days (or 632 days) to convert another set piece.

Ronaldo had previously converted three free-kick goals over the course of 2024, but 2025 proved to be a difficult stretch for the forward from a dead-ball perspective. He went empty-handed on 21 free-kick attempts over the calendar year, extending that slide through six additional blocked, deflected, or missed efforts before finally regaining his clinical form on Thursday.

Cristiano Ronaldo led Al Nassr FC to the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title and took center stage during the celebrations.

This Thursday, Cristiano Ronaldo ended his long wait of nearly three and a half years by winning his first official title with Al Nassr after securing the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League crown, playing a central role in the title run with his goals.

The Portuguese forward delivered a crucial performance throughout the season, recording 28 goals and three assists in 30 matches. That impact was evident again in Thursday’s decisive clash against Damac, where he scored a brace that helped calm his team during a tense moment in the match.

The final whistle sealed the title for Al Nassr, ending a seven-year drought since the club’s previous league triumph in the 2018-19 season. From there came the expected scenes of relief, happiness, and emotion from the players, with much of the focus on Cristiano Ronaldo.

He had been substituted in the closing minutes by coach Jorge Jesus, making way for Abdullah Al-Hamdan. During those final moments, television cameras repeatedly captured Cristiano’s emotions, including tears in his eyes.

Cristiano Ronaldo lifts the 2025/26 #RoshnSaudiLeague trophy 🏆 pic.twitter.com/gjFKcDJ4vd

— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) May 21, 2026

Once the celebrations began, it was time for the trophy ceremony. One by one, Al Nassr staff members stepped forward to receive their medals, led by Jorge Jesus. Then came the players, with the captain saved for last. When Ronaldo’s turn arrived, he was handed the Saudi Pro League trophy, which he lifted surrounded by his teammates.

Ronaldo receives another Saudi Pro League honor

In addition to wearing the champions medal around his neck and lifting the Saudi Pro League trophy as Al Nassr captain, Cristiano Ronaldo also received another honor for his decisive performance on Thursday. The Saudi Pro League named him Player of the Match, a logical recognition considering his two goals and overall influence throughout the game.

Official:

Cristiano Ronaldo named the player of the match. pic.twitter.com/aqZqkxLkEW

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) May 21, 2026

Ronaldo’s first reaction after the title

Amid the celebrations and trophy ceremony, Cristiano Ronaldo took a moment to share a post on his official social media accounts. He posted an image featuring a collage of photos of himself wearing the Al Nassr jersey, including one of him lifting the Saudi Pro League trophy, accompanied by a single word: “CHAMPIONS!!!!!”

CHAMPIONS!!!!! 🏆 🟡🔵 pic.twitter.com/8x9nzGHRx1

— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 21, 2026

The standings of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League after Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr were crowned champions.

A dramatic ending was expected for Cristiano Ronaldo after Al Nassr wasted a great opportunity to win the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League against Al Hilal. However, they were able to bounce back and win the title after victory in their final match.

The draw created by Bento’s own goal against Al Hilal in the 98th minute added more suspense to the title race than there should have been after Al Nassr had led the standings for much of the season. That unfortunate play left them with just a two-point margin.

With the competition’s tiebreaker being head-to-head, which favored Al Hilal, only a victory over Damac would seal the title. Especially after Al Hilal started winning their match against Al Fayha early, the pressure was huge. However, Sadio Mané scored first for Al Nassr and Coman later gave them a bigger advantage. Damac then pulled one back, but Ronaldo answered with two goals in a 4-1 victory to restore calm and secure the championship.

Al Nassr’s campaign

Al Nassr were very worthy champions of the Saudi Pro League after a strong campaign. What made them so fun to watch was their willingness to take risks in many matches, as they were the team with the fewest draws, with just two.

Unlike Al Hilal, who did not lose a single match in their entire campaign, Al Nassr dropped points along the way, albeit they did not suffer too many defeats, losing only four times.

The main part of their title run was how many matches they were able to win, with a total of 28, making them the team that collected three points the most on their way to 86 points in 38 matches.

The goal difference

Throughout their title-winning campaign, it was clear that the attack carried the team, as they were the top scorers with 91 goals. They were not bad defensively either, conceding just 28. That left them with a fantastic +63 goal difference.

Cristiano Ronaldo finally delivered the moment Al-Nassr had been chasing for years as the Riyadh giant defeated Damac to secure the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title.

Cristiano Ronaldo finally delivered the moment Al-Nassr had been chasing for years as the Riyadh giant defeated Damac to secure the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title. Inside Al-Awwal Park, the atmosphere felt historic long before the final whistle, with supporters knowing they were witnessing another major chapter in Ronaldo’s remarkable career.

The Portuguese superstar once again stepped into the spotlight when his club needed him most. After weeks of pressure, late setbacks, and painful missed opportunities, Al-Nassr responded with the performance that crowned it champion and pushed Ronaldo closer to another landmark that once seemed impossible.

The title race had gone down to the final day after Al-Nassr dramatically dropped points against Al-Hilal the previous week. Jorge Jesus’ side knew there could be no mistakes against a Damac side fighting for survival at the other end of the table.

Instead of freezing under pressure, Ronaldo’s side produced a composed display in front of a packed home crowd. The victory officially sealed the club’s first Saudi Pro League title since the 2018-19 season. It also completed Ronaldo’s long-awaited mission after arriving in Saudi Arabia in winter 2023 with enormous expectations surrounding both him and the league.

Ronaldo delivers again in the defining moment

Much of the pre-match focus had centered on whether Ronaldo could produce one more decisive contribution in a title-defining clash. The 41-year-old answered in the way he has done throughout his entire career: by finding the net twice when the pressure was at its highest.

The goal added another chapter to an astonishing scoring story that has stretched across Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al-Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Even after all these years, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remained the focal point of the Knight of Najd’s attack throughout the campaign.

Before the final round, Ronaldo had already scored 26 Saudi Pro League goals in 29 matches. Although Julian Quinones finished ahead in the Golden Boot race, Ronaldo still ended the season as one of the division’s most decisive players.

How close Ronaldo is to 1,000 goals

The latest strike also moved Ronaldo even closer to one of the most extraordinary achievements soccer has ever seen. The Al-Nassr captain now has 973 official senior career goals for club and country after scoring in the title-defining victory.

That means Ronaldo is now just 27 goals away from the historic 1,000-goal milestone, a number once considered impossible in modern soccer. His Saudi Pro League tally has now reached 102 goals, while his overall record for Al-Nassr has reached 129.

The consistency has perhaps been the most remarkable part of his recent run. In fact, Ronaldo scored 15 goals in 19 matches during the 2026 calendar year, proving that age has done little to slow his instinct in front of goal.

With the Saudi Pro League season now finished, CR7 will have to continue that pursuit next season. Still, the way he ended the campaign has only increased the belief that he can eventually become the first player in history to officially reach four digits in career goals.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a brace in the 4-1 Al Nassr win over Damac FC to secure the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League.

Al Nassr hosted Damac FC at Al Awwal Park on Thursday for a high-stakes Matchday 34 showdown in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League, with the league title on the line in a fierce race against Al Hilal. To push his side to the championship trophy, Cristiano Ronaldo converted a spectacular free kick and a ruthless open-play finish to fire the hosts to a commanding 4-1 victory.

Sitting on 83 points, Al Nassr entered the match needing a victory to control their own destiny and prevent Al Hilal from snatching the trophy from their hands. Sadio Mane opened the scoring with a brilliant header, and then Kingsley Coman doubled the advantage with a powerful left-footed strike in the 52nd minute, before Morlaye Sylla cut the deficit from the penalty spot in the 58th.

With Al Nassr already holding a narrow 2-1 advantage, Joao Felix tried to generate an opening down the left flank before being brought down by a heavy challenge. Despite facing a difficult, narrow angle, Ronaldo stepped up to take the set piece and fired a powerful strike that skipped off the turf and past the diving keeper to extend the lead in the 63rd minute.

Then in the 81st minute, Al Nassr orchestrated a brilliant team sequence down the right flank spearheaded by Coman; after a defender failed to clear a dangerous cross, Ronaldo collected the loose ball inside the six-yard box and unleashed a thunderous strike to net his second goal of the night.

Immediately after celebrating, the Portuguese legend dedicated the decisive goal to his wife, Georgina Rodriguez, who was watching from the stands. As he walked back to the halfway line, an emotional Ronaldo was seen breaking down in tears, overwhelmed by the moment as he finally brought his trophy drought with Al Nassr to an emphatic end.

With the championship safely secured, manager Jorge Jesus made the decision to sub out Cristiano Ronaldo for Abdullah Al Hamdan, sending the captain to the sideline to a deafening standing ovation. Once on the bench, Ronaldo remained visibly emotional, soaking in the gravity of the moment as Al Nassr officially crowned themselves Saudi Pro League champions.

Ronaldo extends career goal record to 973

Seven years had passed since Al Nassr last lifted the league trophy, making this first official piece of silverware in Saudi Arabia an incredibly special milestone for Cristiano Ronaldo, especially just days after a heartbreaking loss to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final. Beyond securing the SPL crown, the Portuguese icon has now extended his legendary career total to 973 goals.

With tonight’s decisive brace, Ronaldo has racked up 129 goals in 148 appearances for Al Nassr, including 30 tallies across all competitions in the 2025-26 campaign. Now sitting just 27 goals away from the mythical 1,000-goal milestone, anticipation surrounding Ronaldo’s historic pursuit will only intensify as he pivots to his next major challenge: the 2026 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally captured his first official silverware with Al Nassr, bringing an end to a stubborn title drought that has followed him since his high-profile arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally broken his trophy drought with Al Nassr, securing his first official title since arriving in Saudi Arabia in late 2022. The breakthrough came as Al Nassr clinched the Saudi Pro League championship following a decisive 4-1 victory over Damac with a brace from the Portuguese striker.

By capturing the league crown, Ronaldo ended a three-year and four months wait to hoist an official trophy with the club. The Portuguese icon made his official debut on January 22, 2023, and had since been repeatedly frustrated in his quest to lift recognized silverware in the Middle East.

The only tournament Ronaldo had previously celebrated with Al Nassr was the Arab Club Champions Cup, where he famously led his team to victory with a brilliant brace against Al Hilal. However, that tournament is not officially recognized by FIFA or the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), meaning it never counted toward Cristiano’s legendary official career statistics.

Cristiano had a golden opportunity to collect multiple trophies this season after spearheading Al Nassr’s run to the AFC Champions League Two final. However, despite entering the match as heavy favorites on their home turf, Al Nassr suffered a shocking 1-0 upset at the hands of Japan’s Gamba Osaka, leaving Ronaldo empty-handed on the continental stage.

Ronaldo finally capitalizes on silverware opportunity

After letting the AFC Champions League Two title slip through his fingers, Cristiano was determined not to let another golden opportunity pass him by to finish the club campaign empty-handed once again.

Prior to this league triumph, Ronaldo had endured a painful streak of four consecutive final defeats with Al Nassr. The club finished as runners-up in the King’s Cup (2023-24), back-to-back Saudi Super Cups (2024-25 and 2025-26), and the aforementioned recent AFC Champions League Two collapse.

Cristiano ends long club trophy drought

Beyond simply snapping his dry spell with Al Nassr, this league triumph also marks the end of a staggering five-year personal drought for Cristiano without a club trophy.

Before lifting the Saudi Pro League trophy, the Portuguese superstar’s last official piece of club silverware came back in 2021 during his tenure with Juventus, when the Italian giants defeated Atalanta 2-1 to claim the Coppa Italia.

Cristiano Ronaldo added another trophy to his collection after winning the Saudi Pro League title with Al Nassr.

After a long wait, Cristiano Ronaldo finally celebrated his first official title with Al Nassr on Thursday. The club secured the Saudi Pro League trophy after defeating Damac, adding another achievement to the Portuguese forward’s legendary career.

Success had been elusive for CR7 in Saudi Arabia, as he had failed to win an official title since arriving at the club in early 2023. His only previous triumph had been the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup, a tournament not officially recognized by FIFA.

That gives special significance to Thursday’s achievement, since it not only represents his first trophy with Al Nassr, but also allows him to maintain an impressive record that very few players can claim: Ronaldo has won at least one title with every club he has played for.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s first title came with Sporting CP

Cristiano Ronaldo’s career began with the success that would define the following years. In the only season he played with Sporting CP, he won his first professional trophy by defeating Leixoes in the 2002 Supertaca Candido de Oliveira, the annual competition contested by the winners of Portugal’s top league and domestic cup.

Ronaldo’s titles with Manchester United

The major breakthrough in CR7’s career came in 2003, when he left Sporting CP to join one of Europe’s biggest clubs: Manchester United. There, under coach Sir Alex Ferguson, the forward developed into the best player in the world, a status cemented by his 2008 Ballon d’Or win.

Between 2003 and 2009, Cristiano won 10 trophies with the Red Devils. The most important was the 2007-08 UEFA Champions League title, alongside Premier League crowns in 2007, 2008, and 2009, the 2004 FA Cup, the 2006 and 2009 EFL Cups, the 2007 and 2008 Community Shields, and the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup.

Ronaldo shines with Real Madrid

After starring in England, Cristiano Ronaldo was signed by Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 in a move that helped define an era of soccer through his battles with Barcelona’s Lionel Messi for global supremacy.

With Los Blancos, CR7 scored 450 goals between 2009 and 2018, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer while helping the team win 16 trophies. The most important were the four Champions League titles captured in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018. Those victories also led to additional honors, including the FIFA Club World Cups in 2014, 2016, and 2017, as well as the UEFA Super Cups in those same years.

Domestically, Real Madrid enjoyed less success because Barcelona dominated many of the trophies during that era. Even so, the club still won two La Liga titles (2012 and 2017), two Copa del Rey trophies (2011 and 2014), and two Spanish Super Cups (2012 and 2017).

Cristiano Ronaldo’s titles with Juventus

In 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid parted ways, leading to his move to Juventus. There, the forward won the Serie A titles in 2019 and 2020, along with the 2018 and 2020 Supercoppa Italiana and the 2021 Coppa Italia.

Cristiano Ronaldo ends title drought with Al Nassr

After an unsuccessful return to Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo made the surprising decision in December 2022 to leave Europe for the first time in his career and join Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr. From that moment, he began a three-and-a-half-year wait for his first official trophy with the club: the Saudi Pro League title won on Thursday.

Portugal reaches glory with Ronaldo

In addition to his club success, Cristiano Ronaldo has also captured major honors with the Portugal national team. Before CR7’s international debut, Portugal had never won an official trophy. That drought ended with the UEFA Euro 2016 title, followed by the UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.

All Cristiano Ronaldo trophies

Sporting CP (1)

• 2002 Supertaca Candido de Oliveira

Manchester United (10)

• FA Cup 2003-04
• EFL Cup 2005-06, 2008-09
• Premier League 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09
• Community Shield 2007, 2008
• UEFA Champions League 2007-08
• FIFA Club World Cup 2008

Real Madrid (16)

• Copa del Rey 2010-11, 2013-14
• La Liga 2011-12, 2016-17
• Supercopa de España 2012, 2017
• UEFA Champions League 2013-14, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18
• UEFA Super Cup 2014, 2016, 2017
• FIFA Club World Cup 2014, 2016, 2017

Juventus (5)

• Serie A 2018-19, 2019-20
• Supercoppa Italiana 2018, 2020
• Coppa Italia 2020-21

Al Nassr (1)

• Saudi Pro League 2025-26

Portugal (3)

• UEFA Euro 2016
• UEFA Nations League 2018-19, 2024-25

Al Nassr won the Saudi Pro League, marking Cristiano Ronaldo’s 36th career title. But how many trophies does Lionel Messi have?

This Thursday, Al Nassr defeated Damac in the final match of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season and secured the title. For Cristiano Ronaldo, the victory marked his 36th professional trophy, an impressive milestone that places him among the most decorated players in soccer history. However, he still trails Lionel Messi, who leads the all-time rankings with 48 trophies.

Since joining Al Nassr in December 2022, Ronaldo had been chasing his first official title with the Saudi club. After losing three finals and winning the unofficial 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup, he finally achieved that goal.

The achievement also allows Ronaldo to maintain a remarkable streak: winning at least one title with every club he has played for. Early in his career, he captured the 2002 Portuguese Super Cup with Sporting CP. At Manchester United, he won 10 trophies, including one UEFA Champions League title and three Premier League crowns.

Later, the most successful stretch of his career came with Real Madrid, where Ronaldo won 16 trophies, including two La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies. With Juventus, he added five domestic titles, while with the Portugal national team, he won the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League trophies.

Lionel Messi’s titles

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s 36 titles are impressive, they still fall short compared to Lionel Messi’s record. The Argentine forward not only leads this comparison but is also the most decorated player in soccer history with 48 trophies.

Most of Messi’s titles came during his 17 years with Barcelona, where he won 35 trophies, including four Champions League titles and 10 La Liga championships. At Paris Saint-Germain, Leo added three more trophies, while with Argentina, he claimed six, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup title. More recently, Messi lifted three trophies with Inter Miami: the 2023 Leagues Cup, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and the 2025 MLS Cup.

Messi leads all-time trophy rankings

With his Saudi Pro League triumph, Cristiano Ronaldo is now just one title away from breaking into the top 10 players with the most trophies in soccer history. Once there, he would join legends such as Lionel Messi, Dani Alves, Andres Iniesta, Karim Benzema, and Gerard Pique.

Here is the list of players with the most trophies in soccer history:

1- Lionel Messi (48)
2- Dani Alves (43)
3- Marquinhos (42)
4- Andres Iniesta (40)
4- Hossam Hassan (40)
6- David Alaba (39)
6- Hossam Ashour (39)
8- Karim Benzema (38)
8- Gerard Pique (38)
10- Maxwell (37)
11- Sergio Busquets (36)
11- Angel Di Maria (36)
11- Cristiano Ronaldo (36)
11- Ryan Giggs (36)
11- Ibrahim Hassan (36)

In a closely contested match, Cristiano Ronaldo led Al Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title. Although Damac put up a strong fight, Sadio Mané’s goal turned the game around, securing the championship for Jorge Jesus’ team.

After a consistent season, Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned champion of the Saudi Pro League for the first time since his arrival in the Middle East. Al Nassr and Damac played out a match that appeared to be fairly even, but Sadio Mané’s goal ultimately turned the game around, putting Al Nassr in the spotlight. With this victory, the Portuguese veteran ends a six-year drought without winning a league title.

Damac FC managed to impose a promising style of play in the opening minutes. Taking advantage of the spaces in the rival defense, they shined with long passes that allowed their forwards to win through speed. After failing to convert their numerous chances, they gradually became more overwhelmed by the high press of Al Nassr. In addition, they adopted a defensive approach after the goal from Sadio Mané, cutting off any chance of equalising the match.

Without Marcelo Brozovic, Al Nassr struggled to build plays and apply high pressure. While Abdullah Alkhaibari shone with his defensive presence and offensive contributions, Ayman Yaya seemed quite lost, leaving a noticeable creative void. Nevertheless, Sadio Mané and João Félix emerged as the most influential players on the field, creating scoring opportunities and setting up the winning goal.

João Félix managed to be the most decisive player for Al Nassr FC, even if he did not score. Not only did he drop deep to receive the ball in midfield, but he also created spaces in attack. With his vision and change of pace, he moved all around the pitch, giving creativity to a team that seemed lost on the wings. Nevertheless, Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace emerged as the most important part of the game, outshining Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman to win the Saudi Pro League.

Al Nassr are your 2025/26 #RoshnSaudiLeague Champions 🏆 pic.twitter.com/IkQXTMNPtx

— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) May 21, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace outshined Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman

Throughout the match, Sadio Mané emerged as Al Nassr’s standout player, scoring the decisive goal that shifted the momentum. Head coach Jorge Jesus focused on making the wings the focal point of the game, allowing the Senegalese forward to shine. Following a corner kick by João Félix, Mané found himself unmarked in Damac’s penalty area. He won the aerial duel and headed the ball into the net to score the goal.

بصناعة جواو فيليكس 🎯
ساديو ماني يسجل هدف التقدم للنصر ⚽️

هكذا جاء الهدف الأول 🟡#النصر_ضمك | #دوري_روشن_السعودي pic.twitter.com/3SAOq4R3lR

— رياضة ثمانية (@thmanyahsports) May 21, 2026

Far from slowing down their offensive pace in the second half, Al Nassr continued to shine down the wings. After a spectacular run by Nawaf Boushal, he found Kingsley Coman and passed him the ball. The Frenchman dribbled past Damac’s defenders, playing a give-and-go with Abdullah Alkhaibari to find himself alone on the edge of the box. Taking advantage of his powerful shot, he unleashed a fierce strike, leaving Kewin with no chance.

كومان يعزز تقدم النصر بتسديدة من خارج المنطقة ⚽️🔥

قصة هدف النصر الثاني كاملة 🟡#النصر_ضمك | #دوري_روشن_السعودي pic.twitter.com/BQoTumZsMM

— رياضة ثمانية (@thmanyahsports) May 21, 2026

Despite great performances from Mane and Coman, Cristiano Ronaldo outshone them both with a spectacular brace. Although he went largely unnoticed for much of the match, he managed to score a spectacular free kick from what seemed like a tight angle. Far from stopping there, he doubled down, scoring a brace after a pass from Joao Felix inside the box, beating Kewin of Damac once again.

Al Nassr FC face Damac today, searching for a victory that would crown them champions of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League. While head coach Jorge Jesus still counts on Cristiano Ronaldo, he loses Marcelo Brozović, forcing drastic changes in midfield.

Despite the recent draw against Al Hilal SFC, Al Nassr still maintain many chances of being crowned champions of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League. To achieve this, they face Damac today, needing a convincing victory. Ahead of the match, head coach Jorge Jesus will be able to count on Cristiano Ronaldo, but he will have the difficult absence of Marcelo Brozović, forcing important adjustments in midfield.

Head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that Marcelo Brozović will not be part of Al Nassr’s squad for the match against Damac FC. After leaving with discomfort in the groin area against Al Hilal SFC, he has not managed to fully recover, as the latest medical examinations did not give him the green light to train with the group, reports Asharq Al-Awsat. With this in mind, they will have to adjust their midfield without one of their best stars.

In place of the Croatian star, Saad Al Nasser could return to the starting lineup after shining against Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two. Alongside him, Jorge Jesus could once again rely on Ali Al Hassan, who has been a regular starter throughout the season. Without another world-class star in midfield, Al Nassr could lose a lot of consistency, as Marcelo Brozović not only provides offensive consistency, but also organizes the team throughout the game.

Report: Marcelo Brozovic is expected to remain at Al Nassr

Throughout the 2025-26 season, the future of Marcelo Brozović has been a fairly controversial topic. Being an undisputed starter for Jorge Jesus, the Croatian’s contract expires in June 2026 and his renewal has not yet been announced. Although he has been a somewhat divisive figure, Al Nassr are already pushing to secure his continuity, and are reportedly very close to ensuring the 33-year-old star remains at the club.

According to Al Youm newspaper, Al Nassr have reached an agreement to extend the contract of Marcelo Brozović. However, the agreement has not yet been officially announced, as the player’s representatives still have some formalities to complete before it becomes official. With this in mind, the Croatian midfielder appears set to remain in the Saudi Pro League, despite interest from several European clubs.

Al Nassr’s Jorge Jesus may press to sign another midfielder

Despite keeping Marcelo Brozović as a starter,Jorge Jesus could look to increase squad depth by signing a star midfielder. While Ângelo and Ali Al Hassan have accompanied the Croatian, Al Nassr have struggled to find consistency, suggesting that a box-to-box midfielder may be needed to complement the team. With this, they could aim to both enhance the 33-year-old star’s impact and build for the future at the same time.

While numerous players such as Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, among others, have been linked, they have not reached an agreement with any of them. However, the continuity of Jorge Jesus could be conditioned by the squad adjustments, as he has stated on multiple occasions that he needs greater depth to maintain high competitiveness across all competitions.

PSG forward Ousmane Dembele provided a positive injury update ahead of the highly anticipated Champions League final against Arsenal.

Ousmane Dembele’s injury against Paris FC raised serious alarms at PSG ahead of the Champions League final against Arsenal, while also sparking concern across France. However, the forward reassured fans that he is in good shape to feature in the grand finale on Saturday, May 30, at the Puskas Arena.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or winner triggered panic during the club’s final Ligue 1 match against Paris FC when, in the 27th minute, he signaled to the bench and requested a substitution. The optics worsened when, instead of taking a seat among the substitutes, he walked straight down the tunnel into the locker room.

Despite the initial scare, the French winger downplayed the severity of the situation in an interview with RMC Sport, stating he feels great and is ready to face Arsenal. “I’m doing very well. I had a little scare against Paris FC, but I’m fine and I’ll be ready for the final,” Dembele noted.

To further calm supporters’ nerves, the former Barcelona attacker emphasized that he has no reservations about his physical fitness heading into the decisive May 30 clash. “Will I be at 100% for the final? Yes, yes, I think so, I’ll be ready. I have no doubts about it, and I expect to be on the pitch on May 30,” he added.

Dembele’s grueling injury history

Dembele has notoriously lacked luck when it comes to durability throughout his career. The French forward has endured an array of physical setbacks that have sidelined him from high-stakes matches for Barcelona, the France national team, and PSG alike.

During his tenure with the Spanish giants, Dembele suffered more than a dozen distinct injuries that knocked him out of crucial Champions League knockout ties. Most notably, he essentially missed the entire 2019-2020 campaign due to severe hamstring tears.

While on international duty with France, Dembele suffered a ruptured biceps femoris tendon in his right knee during the Euro 2020 group stage against Hungary. The injury not only prematurely ended his tournament run but also sidelined him for four months.

He has not been completely immune to setbacks with his current club either. During this season’s Champions League campaign, he was forced off during a league-phase match against Bayern Munich and subsequently missed the playoff knockout rounds against Monaco.

Determined not to miss the final

Given his extensive history in the medical room, the player acknowledged that his early exit against Paris FC was purely a precautionary measure to avoid missing yet another monumental showcase.

“I’ve had so many minor scares or serious injuries in my career, whether here at PSG or even before. With such massive games on the horizon, especially this final, I preferred to stop and, above all, not take any risks,” he told RMC Sport.

Despite their recent draw against Al Hilal, Al Nassr remain a strong contender to win the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League. However, they must secure a victory today against Damac. To that end, fans are keeping a close eye on Cristiano Ronaldo, as he could be the difference-maker in terms of scoring.

Al Nassr have managed to become as one of the best teams in the Middle East. Not only did they shine in the AFC Champions League Two, but they have also done so in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League. With this in mind, they face Damac today, needing a victory to crown as league champions after many years of drought. For this, fans are keeping a close eye on Cristiano Ronaldo as he points to be differential from a goalscoring perspective.

Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Al Nassr FC, being in full physical condition. While he comes from two games without scoring, the Portuguese striker has shown a great ability to shine in high-pressure moments. In addition, the 41-year-old star managed to score in the previous match between both teams, giving signs that it could happen again today, as he looks to close the gap in the top scorers table.

Coupled with Cristiano Ronaldo, head coach Jorge Jesus will repeat the successful setup with João Félix. In addition, Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman will be the options on the wings, as they come in strong form with Al Nassr. Being one of the best attacking teams, they aim to dominate heavily from a goalscoring perspective, as their opponent is one of the teams with the most defensive instability.

Unlike Al Nassr FC, Damac are not coming from their best season. With only 29 points, they are fighting to avoid relegation, battling with Al Riyadh SC, meaning they absolutely need a victory. However, they have not shined from a defensive perspective, conceding 51 goals. Despite this, head coach Fábio Carille could opt for an offensive approach, seeking to take advantage of the spaces behind the defense of Cristiano Ronaldo’s team in order to search for a victory.

Al Nassr confirmed lineup vs Damac

After their dominant season, Al Nassr arrive as clear favorites to take the victory against Damac, as they have not lost against them since 2021. However, head coach Jorge Jesus will not be able to count on Marcelo Brozović and Sultan Al-Ghannam due to injury. Despite this, they still maintain their main stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix, who will be boosted by the speed and dribbling ability of Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman.

With this in mind, Al Nassr will lineup as follows: Bento Krepski; Nawaf Boushal, Mohamed Simakan, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Inigo Martinez; Kingsley Coman, Ayman Yahya, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Sadio Mane; Joao Félix, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Damac confirmed lineup vs Al Nassr

Damac arrive with the urgent need to secure a victory against Al Nassr, as they need to avoid relegation. Goalkeeper Kewin Silva could be vital in preventing Cristiano Ronaldo or João Félix from shining.

Considering this, they could lineup as follows: Kewin; Sanousi Al-Hawsawi, Jamal Harkass, Abdelkader Bedrane, Abdulrahman Al-Obaid; Hasssan Rabei, Abdu, Dhari Al Anazi, Morlaye Sylla, Arielson, Jonathan Okita.

Ivan Toney pushed the race all the way to the final matchday with Al-Ahli, but despite his impressive scoring form, the English striker could not erase one of the most iconic individual achievements in Saudi Pro League history.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence over Saudi soccer continues to grow even during a season in which the Al-Nassr captain failed to secure another Golden Boot. Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones pushed the race all the way to the final matchday with Al-Ahli, but despite his impressive scoring form, the duo could not erase one of the most iconic individual achievements in Saudi Pro League history.

The battle for the scoring crown produced plenty of suspense during the closing weeks of the campaign. Toney entered the final fixture knowing he had already overtaken Ronaldo in the current Golden Boot standings, while Julian Quinones was still mathematically in contention heading into the final round.

Al-Ahli closed out its league campaign emphatically with a commanding 4-1 victory over Al-Khaleej at Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium. Although Matthias Jaissle’s side had already secured third place in the table, the club still delivered one of its most complete attacking displays of the season.

Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones stop Ronaldo from third consecutive Golden Boot

Even though he failed to score in the final game, Toney finished the season with 32 league goals. However, Julian Quinones solidified his position as the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League, surpassing the Englishman on the last matchday of the season and finishing the campaign with 33 goals in 31 matches. His total tally was enough to deny Ronaldo a third consecutive Golden Boot award in Saudi Arabia.

That achievement alone represents a major accomplishment considering Ronaldo’s extraordinary consistency since arriving at Al-Nassr. The Englishman adapted quickly to Saudi soccer and became the focal point of Al-Ahli’s attack throughout the campaign.

Ronaldo’s legendary record survives another challenge

While Quionones captured the Golden Boot, the bigger piece of history remained untouched. Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary 35-goal record in a single Saudi Pro League season officially stays unbroken after Quinones ended his campaign on 32 goals, and Toney on 32 goals.

He established that historic mark during the 2023-24 season with Al-Nassr. The Portuguese superstar scored 35 league goals in only 31 appearances, surpassing the previous single-season record of 34 goals held by former Al-Nassr striker Abderrazak Hamdallah.

The achievement became even more remarkable because the superstar accomplished it at the age of 39. His campaign also included 11 assists, three free-kick goals, and an astonishing average of one goal every 75.6 minutes.

Meanwhile, second-placed Julian Quinones ends the season with 33 goals, failing to bridge the two-goal gap needed to surpass the Portuguese’s historic benchmark. The Mexico international needed at least five goals in the final game.

After months of twists, late drama, and pressure-filled nights, Al-Nassr enters the final matchday sitting top of the table with 83 points, while Al-Hilal remains right behind on 81, ahead of its simultaneous clash against Al-Fayha.

Cristiano Ronaldo will walk onto the pitch at Al-Awwal Park knowing the entire Saudi Pro League season hangs in the balance. After months of twists, late drama, and pressure-filled nights, Al-Nassr enters the final matchday sitting top of the table with 83 points, while Al-Hilal remains right behind on 81, ahead of its simultaneous clash against Al-Fayha.

The title race has become one of the most dramatic finishes in recent Saudi Pro League history. Al-Nassr controls its destiny, but the margin for error has disappeared completely after recent dropped points and the painful late equalizer conceded against Al-Hilal in the Riyadh derby.

The 2025-26 campaign has tested Al-Nassr emotionally from start to finish. Jorge Jesus’ side looked ready to celebrate the title last week before Bento’s stoppage-time own goal denied the club victory in a tense derby draw against Al-Hilal. Just days later, the disappointment deepened with a 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, increasing the pressure surrounding the final league fixture.

That result left Ronaldo and his teammates with one last opportunity to turn the season into a success. Despite the recent setbacks, the numbers still favor Al-Nassr. The club has recorded 27 wins, two draws, and only four defeats, scoring 87 goals while conceding just 27 across 33 league matches.

Meanwhile, Al-Hilal has continued to apply pressure without losing ground. The defending challenger has collected 81 points and remained unbeaten through 33 games, setting up a dramatic finish with both title contenders playing at the same time on Matchday 34.

What happens if Al-Nassr wins against Damac?

This is the simplest scenario in the title race. If Al-Nassr defeats Damac, the club officially becomes the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League champion regardless of Al-Hilal’s result against Al-Fayha. A victory would move Al-Nassr to 86 points, putting the trophy beyond the reach of every rival.

It would also secure Cristiano Ronaldo’s first Saudi Pro League title since arriving in the Middle East. The atmosphere inside Al-Awwal Park is expected to be electric if the team gets the job done. Al-Nassr has already gone unbeaten in its last nine home league matches, winning eight of those games.

What happens if Al-Nassr draws against Damac?

A draw would open the door for chaos across Riyadh. If Al-Nassr finishes level against Damac and Al-Hilal defeats Al-Fayha, both clubs would end the season tied on 84 points. Under Saudi Pro League regulations, the first tiebreaker is head-to-head record rather than goal difference.

Because Al-Hilal holds the advantage in the derby meetings across the season, Al-Hilal would overtake Al-Nassr and win the title. However, if Karim Benzema’s side also drops points by drawing or losing against Al-Fayha, Al-Nassr would remain champion.

That possibility means fans will likely spend the evening following events in both stadiums simultaneously. The tension surrounding this scenario explains why the late equalizer against Al-Hilal last week felt so devastating for Jorge Jesus’ side.

What happens if Al-Nassr loses against Damac?

A defeat would create the most dangerous situation for Ronaldo and his teammates. If Al-Nassr loses and Al-Hilal beats Al-Fayha, the title slips away immediately. In that case, Al-Hilal would finish on 84 points while Al-Nassr would stay on 83.

Months of dominance at the top of the table would disappear on the final night of the season. If Al-Hilal also fails to win, Al-Nassr could still survive the scare and secure the championship despite defeat. But relying on help from another stadium is the last thing Jorge Jesus wants after leading the table for so much of the campaign.

Luis Enrique pointed out the best thing Arsenal do ahead of the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.

The Champions League final could be another major moment for Paris Saint-Germain if they lift the trophy. Even so, Luis Enrique warned that it will not be an easy match, because he sees Arsenal as one of the strongest defensive teams in Europe.

Luis Enrique said: “If you look at the team’s numbers, you can clearly see Mikel Arteta’s influence. He has changed the team’s mentality, made them competitive again, and they have continued improving their level. Arsenal are the perfect reflection of Arteta. Without the ball, they are the best team in Europe.”

The match was already huge because of what is at stake, but what makes it even more interesting is the contrast in styles. Paris Saint-Germain eliminated Arsenal in last season’s semifinal, but this time their opponents arrive with confidence after winning the Premier League.

Luis Enrique on set pieces

There are many details that have to be perfect in a game like this. One of Arsenal’s biggest strengths is their set pieces, largely because of the height and physical presence of their players.

For Luis Enrique, that is one of the main things they must watch closely. He knows his team cannot match Arsenal in that area, since Paris Saint-Germain rely more on smaller, technical players who are not built for aerial duels in the same way.

Luis Enrique said: “We are a smaller team, and we are used to different styles, but with the same idea of controlling the game, and it is very difficult to take the ball away from them. They represent Arteta’s ability to motivate the team very well.”

Luis Enrique on Ousmane Dembélé’s attitude

One of the biggest changes since Kylian Mbappé left the club has been the team’s willingness to work together when they lose possession. That has also been reflected in Ousmane Dembélé’s role in attack, since he continues to help his team by tracking back and working hard off the ball.

Luis Enrique said: “You have to defend when you do not have the ball, it’s something every team has to do, just like in basketball, and I think he always shows his individual quality as well as his ability off the ball.”

Frenkie de Jong clarified past rumors about a possible Barcelona exit.

Barcelona wrapped up a very strong season that included a La Liga title and came close to reaching 100 points. One player who missed part of that run because of injury was Frenkie de Jong, who has been linked with a move away from the club for several years. However, he dismissed those rumors in an interview with Sport.

De Jong was asked about reports of a possible exit in the summer of 2023: “What happened that summer was that, even though I said no, some clubs went to Barcelona and offered money for me. And inside the club, not everyone, but some people, thought those were good offers and wanted to sell me. But I’ve always said it: I only want to be at Barcelona.”

The Dutch midfielder also spoke about his relationship with Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco: “My relationship with Deco and Laporta is very good. I have a great relationship with both of them. Barcelona was going through a difficult financial situation and there are always clubs that contact players to ask if they want to leave or not. And I always said no.”

De Jong on Robert Lewandowski’s departure

This summer is expected to mark an important moment for Barcelona, with Robert Lewandowski confirming his departure from the club. The Polish striker was a key figure during a period when the team was not at its best.

For De Jong, his exit means losing a leader, and he also explained that he could not be at the stadium for Lewandowski’s final matches because he was ill and did not want to put anyone at risk.

De Jong said: “I think he has been very important over these four years, especially for the young players coming into the first team. Having the example of someone like Robert, who has won everything, and seeing how he trains and takes care of himself, has been very important for us.”

De Jong on his injury

Barcelona were also without an important piece for much of the year after De Jong suffered an injury. That kept him out of the lineup for a while, with his first start only coming in February because of the issue.

De Jong said: “I was coming back from a long injury and played ten minutes against Espanyol. Then the Champions League second leg against Atlético came around. I did everything possible to return as soon as I could. But in the end, I couldn’t shorten the recovery time the doctors gave me. It was six weeks, and in the end, it was six weeks.”

Major League Soccer could become the testing ground for a major rule change in soccer.

Over the last several years, Major League Soccer has experienced enormous growth, establishing itself among the world’s most important leagues. However, it still features certain distinctive elements compared to the top soccer competitions in Europe and South America, something that could become even more pronounced with a potential rule change that MLS actually experimented with decades ago.

“Major League Soccer has had discussions with the International Football Association Board, global football’s rule making body, about trialing the use of a stopped clock in matches,” British outlet The Guardian reported Wednesday.

If this initiative moves forward, it would represent a major change for soccer. For more than a century, the sport has been defined by a timekeeping system in which the clock never stops regardless of what happens on the field, unlike virtually every other major sport.

In addition, soccer’s clock runs upward from 0 to 45 minutes to mark the beginning and end of each half, rather than counting down to zero as happens in other sports — not only in the United States, but globally — such as basketball and field hockey.

The main criticism of this system is that actual playing time varies depending on the number and length of interruptions. At the same time, although referees add stoppage time as a remedy, that method often rewards teams that intentionally waste time in order to gain an advantage.

MLS’ stance on the stopped clock

The conversations surrounding the possible implementation of a stopped clock in MLS are not merely rumors, as league officials have publicly acknowledged the idea. “We’re open to trials around the world, and working with IFAB,” MLS vice president of competition Paul Grafer told The Guardian.

“When are we going to move away from all of these stopgap procedures and see if we can address gamesmanship and match manipulation by having the referee have a [stopped] clock?” Grafer added, making his position on the issue clear.

MLS has used a stopped clock before

If the proposal to introduce a stopped clock moves forward, it would not be entirely new for MLS. When the league launched in 1996, the original system resembled those used in other American sports, with the clock stopping after every interruption to ensure full net playing time. However, that rule did not last long, as MLS adopted the globally used system in 1999.

After the "Spygate" against Middlesbrough and the decision to expel Southampton from the playoffs, Hull City are reportedly exploring the opportunity to claim for a direct promotion to the Premier League.

Hull City were scheduled to fight for a return to the Premier League this Saturday when they face Middlesbrough in the high-stakes EFL Championship playoff final at Wembley. However, with just three days remaining before kickoff, the Tigers are reportedly set to launch a legal bid for direct promotion following the sudden expulsion of Southampton from the postseason.

On Tuesday, the English Football League (EFL) announced that an Independent Disciplinary Commission had made the bombshell decision to disqualify Southampton from the playoffs. The ruling came after the Saints were found guilty of breaching multiple league rules, including a modern-day “Spygate” scandal directed at Middlesbrough during the playoff semifinals.

The governing body’s ruling immediately inserted Middlesbrough into the final, sending Boro to Wembley to contest the final promotion spot for next season’s Premier League. However, the last-minute adjustment has been met with furious pushback from Hull City, setting the stage for an unprecedented legal showdown off the pitch.

According to talkSPORT‘s Alex Crook, Hull City are actively consulting with a team of lawyers to explore whether they can claim an automatic berth to the top flight. The club’s primary argument hinges on the fact that their entire tactical preparation was tailored for Southampton, meaning the EFL’s sudden intervention completely upends the game plan of manager Sergej Jakirovic.

Our play-off final against Middlesbrough at Wembley on Saturday 23 May will now kick-off at 3:30pm.

Should the outcome of the ongoing appeal process result in Southampton contesting the final against the Tigers, kick-off will revert to 4:30pm.

Supporters who have successfully… pic.twitter.com/01IXzmx91E

— Hull City (@HullCity) May 20, 2026

The Premier League promotion decider between Hull City and Middlesbrough is still officially scheduled for Saturday, May 23, at Wembley Stadium. While Hull City players took a scheduled day off on Wednesday and will return to training on Thursday, the Tigers will have just two days to prepare for their new opponents, whereas Boro has known they were facing Hull since the ruling dropped.

Under a scenario that the Hull City hierarchy reportedly views as inherently unfair, the club’s legal battle is expected to extend far beyond kickoff. Reports from the British outlet indicate that if Hull fail to secure a victory on the pitch this Saturday, the club will almost certainly file a formal post-match challenge against the integrity of the fixture.

Southampton’s final appeal falls flat

Southampton were thrown a temporary lifeline following Tuesday’s initial verdict, launching an emergency appeal to salvage their season. However, the Saints were informed on Wednesday that the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision has been upheld, officially crushing any hopes of a trip to Wembley this weekend.

We have this evening been informed that the EFL’s League Arbitration Panel has upheld the sanctions imposed earlier this week.

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) May 20, 2026

Because the Arbitration Panel’s ruling is legally binding, it cannot be appealed to any outside sports body, including the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Consequently, in addition to being booted from the Championship playoff final, the Saints will also hit the ground running next season with a severe four-point deduction in the standings.

Real Madrid have decided to make a turn in their sporting project with the possible arrival of José Mourinho. In this context, he is reportedly targeting Diogo Dalot as a marquee reinforcement. However, Michael Carrick is pushing for Manchester United to keep the Portuguese player.

José Mourinho is being pointed to as a key figure to solve the growing problems at Real Madrid CF, who are coming off two consecutive seasons without winning titles. In this context, the veteran coach is reportedly pushing to reinforce the squad with specific profiles, with Diogo Dalot being one of the chosen targets. However, Manchester United may not be willing to sell him, as Michael Carrick is pressing for his continuity.

According to Graeme Bailey via TEAMtalk, José Mourinho wants to reinforce the right-back position at Real Madrid CF, targeting Diogo Dalot as his main objective. While Trent Alexander-Arnold is a starter, his defensive gaps leave huge doubts. Nonetheless, Michael Carrick has clearly requested that Manchester United reject any offer for the Portuguese defender, as he considers him key for the future of the sporting project.

With a contract running until 2028, with an option for a further year, Dalot appears set to remain at the Red Devils. Despite the arrival of Noussair Mazraoui as an exciting signing, the Portuguese defender has managed to retain his place in the starting XI, standing out due to his consistency and strong game intelligence. In addition, he is capable of playing on both flanks, a key factor that makes him particularly valuable for Carrick.

Diogo Dalot could be close to agreeing a contract renewal with the Red Devils. With eight years at Manchester, he is one of the longest-serving players in the squad, becoming a highly respected figure within the team. In addition, his impact under Michael Carrick is expected to be rewarded with an improved contract, in an effort to prevent the 27-year-old star from being tempted to leave the club in the summer, according to TEAMtalk.

Report: Trent Alexander-Arnold will remain as starter in Real Madrid

Trent Alexander-Arnold has managed to establish as the starting right-back at Real Madrid, despite having an inconsistent start to the season. Not only has he maintained his strong attacking contribution, but he has also significantly improved his defensive output. With this in mind, the English full-back is reportedly set to remain the starter during the 2026-27 season.

According to José Félix Díaz via Diario AS, Los Blancos will once again rely on Trent Alexander-Arnold as their starting right-back at Real Madrid. However, they will look to sign a backup in the transfer market, although only in a secondary role. With this in mind, Diogo Dalot may choose not to risk leaving the Red Devils, as he would lose the strong importance he currently holds under Michael Carrick.

Arsenal is reportedly ready to hand Mikel Arteta a bumper contract extension worth $34m per year, positioning him alongside Atletico Madrid's Diego Simeone at the top of soccer managerial salary rankings.

Mikel Arteta has guided Arsenal to their fourth Premier League title, ending a painful 22-year drought in the domestic top flight. Following this historic campaign, the Gunners are reportedly planning to reward the Spanish manager with a massive contract extension, a move that would elevate him into a tie as the world’s highest-paid manager alongside Diego Simeone.

According to a report from the prestigious British outlet The Guardian, Arteta’s incoming contract is expected to closely mirror Simeone’s deal at Atletico Madrid. The Argentine tactician currently stands as the world’s highest-paid head coach, bringing in an estimated $34 million (€30 million) per year.

With the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain looming on the horizon on Saturday, May 30, formal contract extension negotiations are scheduled to take place after the showcase event at Budapest’s Puskas Aréna, regardless of the outcome for the Gunners.

Arteta recently became the second-youngest manager in Premier League history to win the title, trailing only Jose Mourinho’s 2005 triumph with Chelsea. By tying him down to a long-term deal, Arsenal’s hierarchy hopes to replicate the stability of Arsene Wenger’s legendary 22-year tenure at the helm.

🚨 Mikel Arteta, expected to sign new deal at Arsenal this year as part of long term plan.

Decision made on club side since February, new deal offered with pay rise and Arteta happy to continue.

Talks to follow after the UCL final and in the summer, no rush but direction clear. pic.twitter.com/SFr6ljXKrn

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 20, 2026

Who is the highest-paid coach in the Premier League?

Should this new contract cross the finish line, Arteta will break records by commanding the highest salary for a manager in Premier League history, simultaneously placing him among the absolute highest earners in world sports.

Currently, Pep Guardiola holds that English benchmark, with reports placing his salary at around $27m (£20m) a year with Manchester City. However, the Spanish tactician’s era with the Citizens appears to be drawing to a close after 10 illustrious seasons.

Arsenal to make some important moves for next season

With their eyes already set on next season under Arteta’s leadership, Arsenal’s recruitment team is already drawing up a shortlist of new signings. One of their primary targets is Eli Junior Kroupi, the Bournemouth forward who inadvertently handed the Gunners the title by scoring in their 1-1 draw against Manchester City.

Other high-profile names on Arsenal’s radar include Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, PSG’s Bradley Barcola, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon. Meanwhile, PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia remains the club’s ultimate dream signing, though the Gunners’ board believes the French giants are highly unlikely to facilitate negotiations for the Georgian winger.

With Marcelo Brozovic and Sultan Al-Ghannam dominating conversations around the squad, Jorge Jesus now faces major decisions before the decisive clash against Damac at Al-Awwal Park.

The tension surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr has reached another level ahead of the final night of the Saudi Pro League season. With Marcelo Brozovic and Sultan Al-Ghannam dominating conversations around the squad, Jorge Jesus now faces major decisions before the decisive clash against Damac at Al-Awwal Park.

Al-Nassr enters the final round knowing the title is within reach, but recent setbacks have left nerves running through the camp. The Riyadh giant remains at the top of the table with 83 points, yet the margin for error has become dangerously small after dropping points against Al-Hilal and the painful AFC Champions League Two final defeat against Gamba Osaka.

The final matchday has become a dramatic showdown for both ends of the table. Al-Nassr needs a victory against Damac to officially secure the Saudi Pro League title without relying on any other result.

The club looked ready to celebrate last week during the Riyadh derby before a heartbreaking late equalizer denied Jorge Jesus’ side all three points. That result kept Al-Hilal alive in the title race and increased the pressure heading into the final fixture of the campaign.

Damac, meanwhile, arrives fighting for survival. The club sits only two points above the relegation zone, meaning even a draw could become crucial depending on other results around the league.

The major injury update finally arrives

After days of uncertainty, the long-awaited update on the squad situation has finally emerged. According to reports from Arriyadiyah, Jorge Jesus will be without Marcelo Brozovic and Sultan Al-Ghannam for the decisive encounter against Damac due to injury concerns.

The Croatian midfielder has reportedly continued to struggle with a groin and hamstring issue that already forced him to miss the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. Despite additional treatment sessions supervised by the club’s medical staff, the Croatian midfielder has not recovered in time for the title decider.

The absence of the 33-year-old veteran could prove especially significant because of his influence in midfield throughout the campaign. The Croatian has been one of the side’s most experienced figures, helping control possession and dictate the rhythm in crucial matches.

Meanwhile, Al-Ghannam’s situation also became increasingly complicated after the injury he suffered during the continental final. The report suggested the Saudi international still required additional recovery time, forcing Jorge Jesus to prepare alternative tactical solutions before the biggest match of the season.

Jorge Jesus prepares final plan

Despite the setbacks, Al-Nassr still enters the contest with confidence thanks to its dominant home record. The club is unbeaten in its last nine Saudi Pro League home matches and has scored in every league fixture this season. Jesus has already called up a 21-player squad for the final pre-match camp in Riyadh.

Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane, Kingsley Coman, Angelo Gabriel, and Mohamed Simakan were all included as the coaching staff finalized preparations for the decisive night. Thus, everything now comes down to one night in Riyadh. After years of waiting, Cristiano Ronaldo stands one victory away from winning his first Saudi Pro League title since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023.

In the middle of an inconsistent season at Real Madrid CF, the problems between Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. do not seem to end. The Frenchman’s entourage reportedly considers that the Brazilian star leaks information in order to make him look like the “bad guy” or not committed to the team.

Real Madrid come from a disappointing season, going through a second consecutive campaign without winning titles. Alongside this, the problems between Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. do not seem to end, generating doubts for next season. Not only have they failed to fully fit into the same system, but the Frenchman’s entourage also supposedly blames the Brazilian for wanting to make the 27-year-old star look like the “bad guy.”

According to Josep Pedrerol, via El Chiringuito, Kylian Mbappé and his inner circle believe that certain members of the locker room are leaking information about whether he goes out for dinner or for a drink, in an attempt to portray him as someone who isn’t fully committed. With this in mind, the 27-year-old star’s inner circle believes that it is Vinicius Jr. who wants to undermine his standing with the fans, causing tension between the two.

After the numerous criticisms over his trip to Italy in the middle of the season, Kylian Mbappé decided to explode in the mixed zone, sending a message to his teammates: “I had authorization from the club to not be in Madrid, and I was not the only one in the squad who was not there,” he said, as per Diario AS. With tensions continuing to grow, the relationship between the French star and Vinícius no longer appears entirely stable, but increasingly complicated.

Despite the multiple difficulties between Vinícius and Mbappé, Real Madrid supposedly maintain the continuity of both stars as a condition for their next head coach. With this in mind, both stars may need changes in their role on the field, seeking to maximize their performances. Meanwhile, José Mourinho’s potential arrival could also help ease tensions inside the dressing room, something he has already managed to do in previous eras.

Kylian Mbappé may be struggling to share spotlight at Real Madrid

Throughout his sporting career, Kylian Mbappé has always been the cornerstone of his teams, something that was clear at AS Monaco FC and PSG, ahead of Neymar and Lionel Messi. Therefore, the Frenchman expected that upon his arrival at Real Madrid it would be the same, removed from defensive responsibilities and being completely protected. However, the 27-year-old striker could be suffering the consequences of sharing the spotlight.

Unlike his previous clubs, Real Madrid do not have a single differential star, as Vinícius and Jude Bellingham are also central pieces of the team. Therefore, Mbappé does not have a team that plays around him, but rather he has to play in order to enhance the team. With this in mind, Mourinho’s potential arrival will be differential in adjusting the Frenchman’s mentality, while also calming the tension surrounding Vinícius Jr., as he must also share the spotlight.

Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric are both facing uncertain moments in their Milan careers as the Serie A giant prepares for what could become another dramatic summer at San Siro.

Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric are both facing uncertain moments in their Milan careers as the Serie A giant prepares for what could become another dramatic summer at San Siro. After a difficult stretch threatened to derail the campaign, Milan suddenly finds itself back in a strong position in the race for Champions League qualification, and it’s a development that could reshape several major decisions inside the club.

The Rossoneri entered the final weeks of the season under enormous pressure following a worrying collapse in form during April. However, a crucial 2-1 victory away against Genoa, combined with Juventus losing 2-0 to Fiorentina, completely changed the atmosphere surrounding the club. Milan now sits third in the Serie A table with a two-point advantage over fifth-placed Como heading into the final weekend of the season. 

That turnaround has given the club renewed hope of securing a place in next season’s Champions League, something that may directly influence the futures of several important players. According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan is preparing to make key decisions regarding multiple first-team stars once the season officially concludes.

The situation involves players across every department of the squad, including Luka Modric, Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Fikayo Tomori. The uncertainty reflects how turbulent the season has been for the Red and Blacks. For long stretches of the campaign, the club looked secure inside the top four, yet a sharp decline in performances almost pushed the side completely out of Champions League contention.

Now, with qualification suddenly back within reach, Milan’s internal strategy may change significantly. The Serie A giant reportedly views Champions League soccer as a crucial factor in determining which players stay and which players leave.

What is Milan’s reported stance on Luka Modric?

One of the most fascinating situations surrounds Luka Modric. The Croatian veteran moved to San Siro after leaving Real Madrid last summer and signed a one-year contract that included an option for an additional season.

According to the report, qualifying for the Champions League is considered essential if Milan hopes to convince Modric to remain for another year. Without Europe’s biggest competition, the chances of the 40-year-old staying at San Siro appear far lower.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner arrived in Italy carrying enormous experience and leadership after one of the greatest midfield careers in modern soccer history. Even at this stage of his career, his presence inside the dressing room remains highly valued by the club.

In recent months, it has become harder to forecast Modric’s future due to the uncertainty surrounding the club’s season. Now, though, the recent improvement in results may give the Rossoneri one final opportunity to extend his stay.

What is Milan’s reported stance on Christian Pulisic?

Eventually, there is Christian Pulisic, facing a very different kind of uncertainty. The United States international remains one of Milan’s biggest attacking stars, but discussions over a new contract have reportedly slowed considerably.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Milan had been working toward an extension for several months before negotiations stalled earlier this year. Pulisic is reportedly seeking a salary closer to Rafael Leao’s, while doubts also remain about the direction of the project at San Siro. His current contract expires in the summer of 2027, meaning the Italian side still has time to negotiate.

However, the report makes it clear that some kind of decision will likely arrive this summer. “Something will have to happen,” La Gazzetta dello Sport states regarding the 27-year-old forward’s situation. That could mean either a contract renewal or a possible transfer if an agreement cannot be reached.

The timing is particularly important because Pulisic will spend much of the summer focused on the World Cup in the United States. Milan, meanwhile, wants clarity before entering another demanding season.

Lionel Messi appears increasingly close to having Casemiro as a teammate, as negotiations with Inter Miami are reportedly advancing despite interest from LA Galaxy.

For months, it has been widely understood that Casemiro would not remain at Manchester United beyond the end of the current season. That has opened the door to several possible destinations for the Brazilian midfielder, with Inter Miami and LA Galaxy emerging as the leading contenders. The club led by Lionel Messi now appears to be in pole position to land the 34-year-old star.

“Inter Miami and LA Galaxy been chasing Casemiro since March,” The Athletic and CBS Sports reporter Tom Bogert said Wednesday through his official X account. “Miami close to landing the Brazil int’t, who is out of contract this summer. Would join after World Cup.”

Among the Brazilian midfielder’s options in recent months have also been clubs from the Saudi Pro League, especially Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, as well as European giants such as AS Roma. However, his future now appears likely to be in MLS, more specifically alongside Lionel Messi.

“Inter Miami is preferred destination for Brazil int’l Casemiro & Miami is closing in on a deal,” Bogert added. Another report from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano supported that information, as he posted on X: “Casemiro wants Miami as next destination, with clear expectation to sign soon. The Brazilian wanted to finish season at Man Utd then sign with Inter Miami.”

🚨 BREAKING: Inter Miami is preferred destination for Brazil int'l Casemiro & Miami is closing in on a deal, sources tell @PaulTenorio & I.

➕ The LA Galaxy have priority rights & made offers to Casemiro too. That situation needs to be resolved. https://t.co/gYrk82ghJp

— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) May 20, 2026

Considering that, a final decision could arrive soon since Manchester United’s 2025-26 campaign will conclude this Sunday when they visit Brighton & Hove Albion on Premier League Matchday 38. Another reason Casemiro is expected to avoid delays regarding his future is the proximity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Brazil’s training camp set to begin on May 27.

LA Galaxy still in the race

Inter Miami may be Casemiro’s preferred destination, but that does not mean the path is completely clear. “The LA Galaxy have priority rights & made offers to Casemiro too. That situation needs to be resolved,” Tom Bogert reported.

That situation is tied to MLS rules, which in some aspects differ significantly from those in other leagues around the world. In the United States, each club can place players who are not currently in MLS on their “Discovery List,” giving them priority over other MLS teams in negotiations for that player.

Messi needs elite-level teammates

While Inter Miami’s performance this season has been reasonably strong — they currently sit second in the Eastern Conference — the team’s overall level has raised concerns at different moments throughout the campaign. In that regard, the midfield has been a particular issue.

The Herons have yet to truly replace Sergio Busquets, who retired in December 2025. David Ayala arrived as a reinforcement for that role but has struggled to establish himself so far, leaving Yannick Bright as the team’s usual defensive midfielder.

The absence of an elite-level player in such a crucial area of the field has been noticeable, increasing the burden on Lionel Messi and the rest of the attacking players. Inter Miami are the highest-scoring team in MLS this season with 33 goals, but they have not always translated that into positive results because of their defensive fragility, to the point of also ranking among the 10 teams with the most goals conceded (24). Casemiro could help solve many of those issues and provide much-needed balance to the team.

France legend Thierry Henry praised his former FC Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola, claiming that he "reopened my eyes on the way I see the game."

Thierry Henry is one of the many legends who had the privilege of being coached by Pep Guardiola, a manager who has left an indelible mark on the modern game. With Guardiola widely expected to leave Manchester City, Henry paid tribute to his former boss, admitting that the Spaniard “reopened my eyes on the way I see the game.”

Recent reports have confirmed that Guardiola has decided to leave Manchester City after a decade at the club. Although the Spanish coach has publicly stopped short of confirming the decision, with just one year remaining on his contract a departure appears all but inevitable, and the conversation around his legacy in English football is already well underway.

During a CBS Sports UEFA Champions League Final preview call attended by World Soccer Talk, Henry was asked about the man who once coached him at FC Barcelona and about Guardiola’s lasting influence on the competition. “Pep has been able succeed wherever he went, and obviously that involves the Champions League, because in any team that he coached he was in the Champions League. It’s the way he goes about the game, the intensity that he puts in his team,” Henry said.

Placing Guardiola within a lineage of legendary coaches that includes Rinus Michels, Johan Cruyff and Louis van Gaal, Henry spoke about how Guardiola caught the game off guard by consistently losing great players and rebuilding as if they “were never there.” Beyond reviving the false nine position, the French legend also highlighted Guardiola’s more recent tactical innovation at City, turning fullbacks into players capable of occupying the interior pockets of the pitch and functioning as holding midfielders.

Henry, who worked under Guardiola at Barcelona between 2008 and 2010, recognized his former manager’s philosophy as something that will leave a lasting imprint on the sport for years to come. “I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m just saying he invented something that wasn’t there. And just for that, and with what he has also won, and how he transmitted and how he transcended and inspired people,” he said.

The France legend saved his most personal tribute for last, describing Guardiola’s influence as a genuine revelation. “I thought for a very long time that I was okay understanding the game. But this guy opened my eyes on how I see the game now. So I think for me, it’s like I said, just outstanding,” he concluded.

Where to watch: PSG vs. Arsenal Champions League Final

Fans in the United States can catch the UEFA Champions League final live on the CBS Television Network and Paramount+. PSG advanced past Bayern Munich in a thrilling semifinal that ended 6-5 on aggregate, while Arsenal, now Premier League champions, came through after a 2-1 aggregate victory over Atletico Madrid.

The final is set for the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary, with American rock band The Killers headlining the Kickoff Show. Scheduled for Saturday, May 31, the showdown could see Arsenal lift their first ever Champions League trophy, or PSG become the first club to win the competition in back-to-back seasons since Real Madrid claimed three consecutive titles between 2016 and 2018.

Minute by minute of the Europa League final Freiburg vs Aston Villa.

In a final featuring the stronger side on paper, the result was not a surprise as Aston Villa won their first-ever Europa League title with a convincing 3-0 victory over Freiburg.

In a tight first half, things unraveled for Freiburg late on as Aston Villa scored a pair of excellent goals. The breakthrough came from a well-worked corner routine that ended with a floated cross from Rogers and a superb volley from Tielemans.

When it seemed the teams would head into halftime with only a one-goal difference, Buendía found space and curled a brilliant left-footed shot into the top corner for the 2-0. That goal effectively put the match out of reach.

In the second half, Aston Villa sat deeper to protect the lead while Freiburg struggled to create dangerous chances. A low cross from Buendía that was finished by Rogers sealed the 3-0 win with 30 minutes remaining.

Alexi Lalas spoke about the possibility of Pep Guardiola becoming the next head coach of the USMNT.

This week, Pep Guardiola became one of the biggest names in soccer headlines around the world after reports from respected insiders Fabrizio Romano and Ben Jacobs claimed his departure from Manchester City at the end of the current season is already considered a done deal. Against that backdrop, American soccer legend Alexi Lalas discussed the possibility of the USMNT taking advantage of the situation.

“If Pep Guardiola is available and he’s open to it, you would be dumb not to take that call and to sit down, and to see how he thinks about these things,” the former defender began by saying on Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union on Fox Sports. “You absolutely make that call, you might even get that call. I mean, we know Pep famously took a sabbatical. Where did he go? Went to the United States. It might appeal to him.”

Indeed, when Guardiola ended his successful four-year run with Barcelona in 2012, he took a year-long break during which he spent significant time in New York. During that period, he prepared for his next challenge with Bayern Munich, including learning German.

Now, with Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City seemingly decided, it remains unclear what the Spanish coach’s next step will be. It is also worth noting that Guardiola has worked continuously for the past 13 years, immediately beginning his tenure in England after completing his three seasons with Bayern Munich.

Lalas believes Guardiola needs a challenge like the USMNT

From 2008 through the present, Pep Guardiola has built a legacy that places him among the most successful managers in soccer history. In fact, he currently ranks second all-time with 40 trophies, trailing only Sir Alex Ferguson’s 49.

However, Alexi Lalas believes Guardiola still faces an unexplored challenge in his career: “For all of his success and all of his intelligence when it comes to the game, he still has to apply it to a very very different scenario, both in terms of being international, but also in terms of being a lesser team relative to the elites.”

The former United States international at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups then explained why the USMNT fits that description. “Pep has established his greatness making great teams that much greater. And the US is not a great team that he is falling into,” said the 55-year-old former defender.

Pochettino and his future with the USMNT

For Pep Guardiola to become a realistic option for the future of the USMNT, the position would first need to become available. Right now, the job belongs to Mauricio Pochettino, who was hired in September 2024 on a two-year deal with the goal of leading the team into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

There has still been no official confirmation regarding the Argentine coach’s future once the tournament in North America concludes this summer, which is understandable considering the USMNT’s performance there could ultimately determine the next steps.

Still, Alexi Lalas sounded confident about what will happen with Pochettino after the World Cup. “Pochettino, I think he’s going to move on. I think he’s gonna have some wonderful opportunities. And so, this coaching carousel is going to happen,” the former American player said, therefore opening the door to the possibility of Pep Guardiola.

After a successful tenure, Rodrigo Hernandez appears determined to leave Manchester City, pushing for an exit during the summer of 2026. In this context, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner supposedly wants to join Real Madrid as his ideal destination.

Rodri has managed to become one of the best players of Manchester City in recent years. Not only has he become the central piece of the team’s balance, but he has also delivered goals in decisive moments. Despite this, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner reportedly looks set to leave the Citizens, pausing contract renewal talks in order to force an exit during the summer of 2026. In this context, he supposedly aims to join Real Madrid CF as his preferred destination.

With his contract running until 2027, Manchester City are fully determined to offer Rodri a new contract renewal. To achieve this, the Citizens are reportedly willing to offer him a weekly salary of €350,000 alongside a deal lasting until 2029. However, he has not yet given the “yes” to the club’s proposal, while also reportedly showing openness toward Real Madrid, making it clear that he would be willing to play for Los Blancos despite his past with Atlético de Madrid.

According to Joel del Río via MARCA, Pep Guardiola’s potential departure from the Citizens opens the door for Rodri to leave. In this context, Real Madrid believe that the 29-year-old star fits perfectly due to his leadership, tactical intelligence, and balance in midfield. In addition, the player reportedly views a move to Los Blancos positively, as the club consistently competes for every major title and would make him the central piece of their midfield.

While Rodri draws a lot of attention at Real Madrid, they have not yet made a move for his signing in the summer of 2026, reports Matteo Moretto. With this in mind, they could be far from having his arrival secured, as Manchester City are already pushing for a renewal. In addition, the 29-year-old star could consolidate as one of the best players for Spain at the 2026 World Cup, making his signing more complicated than ever.

Manchester City have already secured a replacement for Rodri Hernandez

Rodri has not come from his best season at Manchester City, as injuries heavily affected his physical continuity. Because of this, Pep Guardiola has had to resort to several alternatives. Thinking about the future of the sporting project, the Citizens decided to pay €60 million to FC Porto for Nico González, who could be the natural replacement for the 29-year-old star if he leaves the team in the summer of 2026.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Nico González played 2,492 minutes, having great prominence at the beginning of the season. While the return of Rodri took away his starting spot, the 24-year-old star has already shown a great ability to shine, even managing to score one goal. Because of this, Manchester City would not have to go and sign a replacement for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, something that could facilitate his departure to Real Madrid CF.

Heading into the 2026-27 season, Bernardo Silva and Dušan Vlahović have been offered to FC Barcelona as potential free-agent reinforcements. However, the Spanish side have reportedly rejected both players in order to focus on other priority transfer targets.

Barcelona managed to crown as champions of the 2025-26 LaLiga, showcasing a strong attacking style under Hansi Flick. However, the Blaugranas are still looking to reinforce their roster in search of greater competitiveness in the UEFA Champions League. In this context, Bernardo Silva and Dušan Vlahović were offered as world-class free-agent reinforcements. Even so, the Blaugranas have reportedly rejected the arrival of both players.

According to Sique Rodríguez via Cadena SER, both Dušan Vlahović and Bernardo Silva have been offered to FC Barcelona through their representatives. Although both players would arrive as free agents, the Blaugranas have reportedly decided to reject the offers for now, as they remain focused on signing a world-class striker and a winger — profiles that neither player currently fully satisfies.

Despite having shined at Manchester City, Bernardo Silva is not a player currently included within Barcelona plans. With numerous players already occupying the midfield, the front office reportedly do not consider the Portuguese star to be an option worth prioritizing. However, Dušan Vlahović could still have chances of joining Hansi Flick’s team, although only if the club fail to secure their primary targets, making him more of a secondary alternative.

After their major goalscoring problems and the departure of Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona seem determined to prioritize the signing of a striker. While Julián Álvarez was the club’s priority option, PSG now reportedly appear to lead the race for his signing. Because of this, João Pedro has emerged as Barcelona’s main target in the transfer market. For that reason, the possible arrival of Dušan Vlahović now appears more difficult than initially expected.

Report: Bernardo Silva emerges as a top target for Atlético Madrid

Bernardo Silva has remained one of the most important players for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. After several years with the Citizens, the Portuguese star has reportedly decided to leave as a free agent, with his main objective being a move to LaLiga, as per several reports. After Barcelona’s rejection, the 31-year-old midfielder has supposedly become Atlético de Madrid’s main target, while Real Madrid CF and Juventus FC also remain attentive to his future.

According to David G. Medina and Isaac Suárez via MARCA, Bernardo Silva has become Atlético de Madrid’s main target in the transfer market. After the departure of Antoine Griezmann, the Portuguese star is viewed as the ideal player to replace him within the squad, as his versatility and impressive trophy cabinet make him a high-impact option. However, Real Madrid and Juventus are also monitoring his future closely, potentially entering the race for his signing.

The Saudi Pro League championship is up for grabs as Al-Nassr prepares for its crucial match against Damac, and Cristiano Ronaldo and Kingsley Coman are likely to be the stars of the show.

The Saudi Pro League championship is up for grabs as Al-Nassr prepares for its crucial match against Damac, and Cristiano Ronaldo and Kingsley Coman are likely to be the stars of the show. The Riyadh club enters the final round under enormous pressure, knowing that one strong performance at Al-Awwal Park could finally deliver the championship after months of relentless competition.

The atmosphere around the club has intensified even further following recent uncertainty surrounding several important first-team players. Jorge Jesus and his coaching staff spent the last few days anxiously monitoring the physical condition of multiple stars before making final decisions ahead of Thursday’s title showdown.

Al-Nassr supporters are expected to fill the stadium completely as anticipation continues to grow across Saudi Arabia. With Ronaldo leading the attack and the club sitting on top of the table with 83 points, the match has quickly become one of the most anticipated fixtures of the entire season.

The timing of the encounter has only increased the tension surrounding the squad. Al-Nassr arrives after suffering a painful 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, a result that denied the club continental glory and placed even greater importance on securing the domestic title.

Al-Nassr faces massive pressure

The equation for Al-Nassr remains straightforward heading into the final weekend. A victory against Damac would officially crown the club Saudi Pro League champion without relying on any other result.

That reality has transformed preparations into an intense balancing act between tactical work and injury management. The club has spent the week carefully assessing the condition of several players who missed recent matches because of muscle problems and fitness concerns.

Earlier reports indicated that Kingsley Coman, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, and Angelo Gabriel were all undergoing specialized rehabilitation programs before training sessions. The group reportedly completed electrical therapy and stretching exercises as the medical department attempted to accelerate their recovery ahead of the decisive encounter.

The final decisions depended on whether the players could train pain-free alongside the rest of the squad. Jorge Jesus reportedly wanted every available option ready before selecting his starting lineup for the season-defining match.

Crucial injury update arrives with Brozovic still in doubt

Al-Nassr then received a major boost during the latest training session. According to reports from Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, and Kingsley Coman all returned to full group training ahead of the clash with Damac. The trio reportedly completed the entire session at the Dar Al-Nassr training center after recovering from the muscle injuries that forced them to miss the AFC Champions League Two final.

Their availability immediately strengthened optimism inside the club before the decisive league fixture. Coman’s recovery could prove especially significant for Jorge Jesus. The French winger has become an important attacking weapon during crucial moments this season, bringing pace, creativity, and experience to the frontline alongside Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.

Additional reports suggested that Coman had already declared himself fully fit and ready to start against Damac. Meanwhile, Al-Khaibari was said to be nearing full fitness after progressing well during the final rehabilitation phase. The return of Al-Amri also gives Al-Nassr greater defensive stability before facing a Damac side still battling to avoid relegation.

His presence could become vital in a match where every mistake may carry enormous consequences. However, while several players returned at the perfect moment, Al-Nassr also received concerning news regarding Marcelo Brozovic. The Croatian midfielder is reportedly unlikely to feature against Damac because of an ongoing hamstring injury.

Arsenal managed to break the long drought, crowning as winners of the 2025-26 Premier League. With this, Max Dowman managed to become the youngest player to win the English league, surpassing Phil Foden of Manchester City, making it clear that he points toward a giant legacy.

As Manchester City FC drew against AFC Bournemouth, Arsenal FC managed to break their 22-year drought, winning the 2025-26 Premier League title. With this, Mikel Arteta secured his place in the history of the Gunners, leading one of the most promising sporting projects in the world. Alongside this achievement, Max Dowman managed to become the youngest player to win the English league, surpassing Phil Foden of Manchester City.

According to Guinness World Records via X, Max Dowman has become the youngest player ever to win the Premier League, achieving the feat at just 16 years and 239 days old. In doing so, Arsenal’s wonderkid surpassed Phil Foden, who previously held the record after winning the 2017-18 Premier League with Manchester City FC at 17 years and 350 days old.

While Dowman is not yet a regular starter under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, he still managed to make five appearances during the campaign, recording one goal and one assist. Having a bright future ahead, Max is expected to remain in the Gunners for the 2026-27 season. Nonetheless, head coach Mikel Arteta has decided to include him step by step in the team, looking for him to adapt to the highest level of competitiveness.

After scoring a goal vs. Everton, Arteta decided to praise Max Dowman’s talent: “It is not only the goal that he scored, [Dowman] changed the game. Every time he got the ball, he makes things happen and we are more of a threat. To do that at that age, in this context, with the pressure, the expectations to win the game – it’s just not normal… When you have such a talent then I’m sure good things are going to happen,” he said, as reported by BBC.

Max Dowman is shaping up to be a generational talent at Arsenal

Since the arrival of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have built an extremely promising sporting project. Not only do they possess elite talents such as Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, but they have also continued to place major trust in academy players. In this context, Max Dowman has fully taken advantage of his opportunities, showcasing exceptional talent. At just 16 years old, he already appears capable of becoming a generational talent for Arsenal.

Heading into the 2026-27 season, Max Dowman could receive a much bigger role at Arsenal. Unlike the situation surrounding Ethan Nwaneri, Mikel Arteta reportedly plans to keep the 16-year-old talent fully integrated within the senior squad, allowing him to continue adapting to the team’s dynamics. In addition, legend Rio Ferdinand have already publicly praised Dowman, further suggesting that his long-term continuity with the Gunners is viewed as almost certain.

The Riyadh club knows victory against Damac would officially secure the championship, so supporters across Saudi Arabia and beyond are preparing for what could become one of the defining moments of Ronaldo’s time in the league.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr are heading into one of the most dramatic nights of the Saudi Pro League season, with the title race set to be decided in front of a packed Al-Awwal Park. The Riyadh club knows victory against Damac would officially secure the championship. Thus, supporters across Saudi Arabia and beyond are preparing for what could become one of the defining moments of Ronaldo’s time in the league.

The atmosphere surrounding the fixture has already reached extraordinary levels before a ball has even been kicked. Al-Nassr enters the final matchday leading the Saudi Pro League table with 83 points, just two ahead of rival Al-Hilal, meaning the pressure on Jorge Jesus and his squad could hardly be any greater.

Every detail around the match has carried enormous significance during the build-up. From tactical discussions to injury updates and title permutations, attention has remained fixed on Al-Nassr’s clash with Damac as the club attempts to win its first league crown since 2019.

The match also arrives only days after disappointment in continental competition. Jorge Jesus and his players suffered a painful 1-0 defeat against Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, leaving the squad desperate to respond immediately in front of its home crowd.

Title race reaches boiling point

Al-Nassr’s situation is simple heading into the final round of the season. A victory against Damac guarantees the Saudi Pro League title regardless of what happens in Al-Hilal’s match against Al-Fayha. That reality has transformed the contest into one of the most anticipated fixtures Saudi soccer has seen in recent years.

Ronaldo’s presence, combined with the importance of the occasion, has elevated global interest around the game to another level entirely. The club officially released ticket information earlier this week in an attempt to maximize attendance at Al-Awwal Park.

Ticket prices were divided across different categories, with seats behind the goal starting at 34 Saudi riyals, corner sections priced at 70 riyals ($19), and premium front sections reaching 110 riyals ($29). Al-Nassr hoped the stadium would become an additional weapon in the title race, as it wants a full house capable of creating the kind of atmosphere that could push the players through one final challenge.

Ticket market goes into utter disarray

However, the demand for tickets quickly spiraled beyond anything organizers expected. According to reports from Saudifutbol on X (formerly Twitter), all tickets for Al-Nassr vs Damac officially sold out almost immediately after becoming available. The situation then reportedly descended into complete chaos across both official and unofficial ticket platforms.

Supporters flooded websites and waiting rooms in massive numbers as resale prices began to rise dramatically within hours. What’s more, some tickets even reportedly increased by more than 400% above their original value. The tremendous demand is a reflection of Ronaldo’s immense influence on Saudi soccer and the increasing international interest in the Saudi Pro League championship battle.

Even more remarkably, reports claimed that more than two million people entered waiting lists for a stadium with a capacity of only around 26,000 supporters. Fans across social media expressed frustration after struggling to secure access to one of the biggest matches in recent Saudi soccer history.

The controversy also triggered accusations between ticketing platforms. According to the report, several parties blamed one another for failing to stop automated bots that allegedly overwhelmed the sales process and made it nearly impossible for many genuine supporters to purchase seats normally.

Endrick posted an emotional video in which he confirmed he's leaving Lyon before the return to Real Madrid.

The week was perfect for Endrick, as Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the forward will be in the World Cup representing Brazil. However, it was also an emotional few days for him, as he posted a video with a farewell message to Lyon fans amid the rumored return to Real Madrid.

Endrick said: “I have to say goodbye now and begin a journey back, one that will take much longer because I am returning with much more than I had when I arrived. For the rest of my life, I will carry this city with me in my heart and in my memories.”

Without many minutes at Real Madrid and with some injuries, Endrick had to leave the club on loan in search of playing time to prove his talent. In the end, his level in France was so good that he left a mark on the fans, just as the city left one on him.

The full message

“In Brazil, when someone is going through a difficult moment, people usually say that person has to kill one lion every day. I spent months going through something no athlete wants to go through, but I decided I would not kill a single lion, I decided to become one. It was here at Lyon that I found what I needed to recover my strength, follow my instinct to attack like a lion, defend my own people and become stronger.

The months of anguish turned into months of joy, victories and learning experiences. I made new friends, became even closer to the ones I already had and discovered that our place is wherever we are with the people we love and the people who love us. This period with all of you could definitely become a movie.

Unfortunately, even stronger, a lion cannot stay in one place forever. I have to say goodbye now and begin a journey back, one that will take much longer because I am returning with much more than I had when I arrived. For the rest of my life, I will carry this city with me in my heart and in my memories.”

Endrick’s numbers in Lyon

Endrick may not have been in the headlines every week, but that was mainly because Lyon were not facing huge challenges. His performances were good enough to convince the national team manager to call him up. His improvement at his new club was clear, as he scored five goals and provided seven assists in 16 Ligue 1 matches to help his team reach the Champions League.

Lionel Messi's great form has led Inter Miami to take the top MLS spot in the CONCACAF rankings, though they're still trailing the overall Top 3.

Lionel Messi has been the driving force behind an Inter Miami side that has spent the first portion of the 2026 season rediscovering the form that carried them to the MLS Cup title last year. The progress is now showing in the standings, with the Herons reclaiming their status as the top MLS club in the CONCACAF rankings, though they still find themselves outside the overall top three.

Back in March, Inter Miami suffered a significant setback with their Round of 16 exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup at the hands of Nashville, and a string of poor results through early April sent them tumbling to seventh in the rankings. Since then, the club has undergone a reset, including the dismissal of Javier Mascherano and the appointment of Guillermo Hoyos, and the results on the pitch have followed.

With CONCACAF releasing its latest club ranking update on May 18, Inter Miami have climbed from sixth to fourth overall, now sitting as the highest-ranked MLS side on the list. LAFC and the Seattle Sounders had been positioned above them, but both clubs have shed points in the most recent update following difficult stretches of form.

After a strong start to the season, LAFC hit a wall in May, falling in the Champions Cup semifinals against Toluca and then collecting just one draw and three consecutive MLS defeats. The Sounders followed a similar trajectory, bowing out of the Champions Cup in the quarterfinals to Tigres UANL before managing only one win, two draws and one defeat in May league play.

Messi’s contribution to Inter Miami’s revival

Hoyos took charge of his first Inter Miami match on April 18 against the Colorado Rapids, and under the Argentine coach the team has found a level of consistency that was largely absent earlier in the season. A significant factor in that turnaround, beyond the improvement from several players across the squad, has been Lionel Messi returning to his best form.

Since that Colorado Rapids fixture, Messi has featured in seven games, scoring seven goals and adding five assists. In May alone across four appearances, he has posted four goals and four assists, performances that have positioned him as the leading candidate for the MLS Player of the Month award.

Who sits at the top of the CONCACAF rankings?

Over the stretch that includes the Colorado match, Inter Miami have posted five wins, one draw and one defeat with 20 goals scored, accumulating 1,241 points in the CONCACAF index. Despite the momentum, the gap between the Herons and the Liga MX clubs occupying the top three remains considerable.

Tigres UANL and Deportivo Toluca hold the top two spots with 1,277 and 1,276 points respectively, as the two CONCACAF Champions Cup finalists. Cruz Azul, who reached the quarterfinals and are set to face Pumas UNAM in the Liga MX Clausura final, sit third with 1,258 points, leaving a 17-point gap between them and the highest-ranked MLS club.

UEFA and FIFA reportedly have different views regarding certain upcoming rule changes.

Several weeks ago, FIFA approved two rule modifications that will be implemented starting with the 2026 World Cup. While the global governing body intends for these new measures to eventually be adopted worldwide, reports indicate UEFA has other plans.

“UEFA has opted against following FIFA’s lead and introducing automatic red cards for players who cover their mouths when confronting an opponent or leave the pitch in protest at a refereeing decision,” The Guardian reported on Tuesday.

The ban on players covering their mouths while interacting with opponents was promoted by FIFA following an incident that actually involved UEFA competition, as it took place during a Champions League match. It was the well-known episode involving Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.

That incident resulted in a six-match suspension for Prestianni imposed by UEFA, which was later extended to the international level as well, potentially affecting the forward’s chances of making Argentina’s roster for the World Cup.

The other situation that motivated these rule changes took place during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, when Senegal players temporarily walked off the field during the final against Morocco in protest of refereeing decisions. Although they later returned and secured a 1-0 victory, CAF ultimately awarded the title to Morocco in a controversial ruling that is now in the hands of the CAS.

UEFA to closely monitor the World Cup

Although FIFA approved these rule modifications following the latest meeting of the International Football Association Board, the decision has not been imposed as mandatory worldwide. That means each continental confederation and local association can evaluate whether implementing the changes is appropriate.

“UEFA’s executive committee will meet for the final time this season in Istanbul on Wednesday and it is understood no regulation changes are on the agenda,” The Guardian reported. However, that does not necessarily mean the decision is permanent, as the issue is expected to be revisited in the near future.

“UEFA sources said that its referees committee would monitor the impact of the new regulations during the World Cup with a view to discussing potential changes during next season,” the report added.

The possibility of seeing a situation similar to the Africa Cup of Nations final happen again during the World Cup is extremely unlikely given how unusual that episode was. However, players covering their mouths while speaking to opponents is far more common, so it will be interesting to see whether that behavior disappears during the World Cup and, if not, whether referees will consistently enforce the new rules with the strictness FIFA intends.

Wit Arsenal's Premier League title, Mikel Arteta broke Pep Guardiola's mark, but trails José Mourinho.

It finally happened for the Arsenal fans who had been anxious about the finish. They held a healthy margin, but this year was not their best and allowed Manchester City back into the Premier League race. Even so, Mikel Arteta’s side managed something Pep Guardiola and José Mourinho had already done.

Arteta established himself as a leader despite his young age. In doing so, he surpassed his fellow countryman, as he is now 44 years and 55 days old after winning the Premier League title, while Guardiola was 47 years and 87 days old when he achieved it.

That leaves him only behind Mourinho in the list of youngest managers to win the title. The Special One did it with Chelsea at 42 years and 94 days. Completing the top four is Kenny Dalglish, who won it at 44 years and 71 days, followed by Arne Slot and then Guardiola at 46 years and 222 days.

Better win percentage than Arsène Wenger

The club has been one of the most important in England for decades. In the modern era, however, it is more closely associated with Arsène Wenger’s teams. Under the French manager, they produced a brilliant style that brought many titles, especially in his earlier years.

His long spell may be the reason Arteta ranks higher than Wenger in win percentage, since the historic manager spent more than 20 years at the club, while the younger coach has been in charge since December 2019.

Arteta has been slowly building a team that has come very close over the last two years. His win percentage now stands at 60.4 percent, with 212 wins, 66 draws and 73 losses, slightly ahead of Wenger’s 57.2 percent from 707 wins, 280 draws and 248 losses, among managers with at least 50 matches.

The final matches

There is one Premier League match left, against Crystal Palace on Sunday. However, that one no longer matters much, with the chance of history arriving later this month. Arteta’s biggest date is May 30, when they will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.

Eli Junior Kroupi scored against Manchester City this Tuesday after choosing France over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.

This Tuesday, Arsenal secured the Premier League title after 22 years thanks to Manchester City’s 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. Eli Junior Kroupi scored the goal that ended the Citizens’ remaining title hopes, after making headlines for rejecting Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.

Born in Lorient, France, on June 23, 2006, Kroupi has Ivorian roots through his father and Portuguese heritage through his mother. Those circumstances made him eligible to represent any of the three national teams, but he ultimately chose the country of his birth.

Portugal tried to convince him to join the program, as Roberto Martinez acknowledged during Tuesday’s press conference. “Yes, there was interest, we stayed ahead of the news. Before the March training camp we had contact,” explained the head coach.

However, Martinez made it clear that Kroupi’s intentions did not align with Portugal’s plans: “It is important to follow players who can represent the Portugal national team and those who want to represent it. Junior wanted to play for France and we respected it, it is a case that we left closed.”

🔥 ¡BOMBAZO CON OLOR A CAMPEÓN EN LONDRES!

💥 Kroupi dispara tremendo remate a borde de área para abrir el marcador del Bournemouth.

🔴 El Arsenal comienza a saborear las miles de la gloria.#PremierLeagueTelemundo pic.twitter.com/ECzhO1jMbq

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) May 19, 2026

With Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement seemingly approaching, Portugal will need young and talented forwards to build the squad for the near future, and Eli Junior Kroupi fits that profile. Still, it was difficult to imagine him having a realistic chance of making the roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup given the level of competition at the position.

Another option for France

Eli Junior Kroupi has represented France’s youth national teams over the past several years. He joined the U-16 national team in 2021 and later remained involved with the country at the U-17 and U-21 levels, most recently appearing in November 2025 against the Faroe Islands.

As for the senior national team, however, Kroupi will need to work hard to earn a spot in the near future. France already feature world-class forwards who are still relatively young and expected to remain part of the national team for years to come, such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele. In addition, emerging talents like Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, Desire Doue and Michael Olise have gradually established themselves within the squad.

Kroupi shining in the Premier League

The current 2025-26 campaign is Eli Junior Kroupi’s first season in the Premier League. He has delivered more than solid performances for Bournemouth, ranking among the league’s top 10 scorers with 13 goals in 32 matches. Beyond the numbers, the importance of those goals also stands out: in addition to scoring against Manchester City this Tuesday, the French forward also found the net this season against Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham.

After a highly successful tenure, Pep Guardiola appears determined to leave Manchester City FC at the end of the season. That decision may already be having consequences inside the squad, as Joško Gvardiol is reportedly seeking a transfer away from the Citizens during the summer 2026 window.

Despite failing to win the 2025-26 Premier League title, Manchester City once again remained competitive across every major competition. However, Pep Guardiola has reportedly decided to leave the club at the end of the season, bringing an end to his legendary era with the Citizens. Amid the possible departure of the Spanish manager, Joško Gvardiol has also reportedly decided to leave the Citizens during the summer of 2026.

According to Stefan Kumberger via SPORT1, Joško Gvardiol is interested in leaving Manchester City FC, with a potential move to Bayern Munich emerging as his preferred destination. Since his tenure at RB Leipzig, the Croatian defender has reportedly been a well-known admirer of Bayern. In addition, club legend Lothar Matthäus revealed that the German side have already made initial enquiries regarding a possible transfer.

With his contract at Manchester City running until 2028, Gvardiol’s potential departure would reportedly cost around €90 million the same fee the Citizens paid for him in 2023, as per Sport Bild. However, Bayern would first need to offload either Kim Min-jae or Hiroki Ito, as they currently lack space in their defensive rotation. With that in mind, the Croatian star’s future could ultimately be decided after the 2026 World Cup.

Despite arriving as one of the best defenders in the world, the Croatian star has struggled to fully secure a permanent starting spot. Under Pep Guardiola, he has increasingly become a rotational option, as Marc Guéhi and Nico O’Reilly have emerged as two of Manchester City’s main defensive bets. Because of this, Joško Gvardiol’s potential departure might not be as damaging to the team’s competitiveness as initially expected.

Manchester City are set to lose two stars amid Guardiola uncertainty

Heading into the 2026-27 season, Manchester City appear to be preparing for major changes within their sporting structure. With the possible departure of Pep Guardiola, the Citizens reportedly already have an agreement in place with Enzo Maresca to take charge of the sporting project. However, the Citizens will also deal with the departures of two key players: Bernardo Silva and John Stones.

Both Bernardo Silva and John Stones are expected to leave the Citizens as free agents after failing to reach agreements over contract renewals. While the English defender had gradually lost prominence within the squad, the Portuguese midfielder remained an undisputed starter for the Citizens. Because of this, Manchester City could be forced back into the transfer market, especially as they attempt to avoid further departures after the expected exit of Pep Guardiola.

Declan Rice celebrated Arsenal’s Premier League title triumph with a message to his fans on his Instagram account.

Declan Rice took to Instagram to celebrate Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years, clinched with one matchday still remaining in the season. The historic triumph marks the end of over two decades of heartbreak for the North London club, securing their first league crown since the legendary “Invincibles” campaign of 2003/04.

The Gunners’ title confirmation hinged on a slip-up from relentless rivals Manchester City, who traveled to the Vitality Stadium. In a dramatic twist, Bournemouth handed Arsenal the ultimate favor, grinding out a gritty 1-1 draw against Pep Guardiola’s men to mathematically end City’s charge.

The 27-year-old took to social media to share the euphoria with the Arsenal faithful, posting a picture from the dressing room alongside teammates Kai Havertz, Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly, William Saliba, and Bukayo Saka. He captioned the post with a triumphant message to the doubters: “I told you all.. it’s done”.

Arsenal will now walk out at the Emirates Stadium for the final matchday of the season against Crystal Palace as official Premier League Champions, where they will finally lift the coveted trophy in front of a bouncing home crowd.

Arsenal going for historic Champions League title

Arsenal have enjoyed a wildly successful Premier League campaign. With just one match remaining, they boast a record of 25 victories, seven draws, and a mere five defeats. Furthermore, they rank as the league’s second-highest scoring team with 69 goals, while anchoring the division’s best defense, having conceded just 26 goals.

However, the Gunners’ success extends far beyond England. Mikel Arteta’s side is making waves across Europe and now stands on the precipice of a historic achievement, with the chance to lift its first-ever Champions League title when it face Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday, May 30, at the Puskas Arena.

On their road to the final, Arsenal displayed the same defensive resilience and tactical steel that defined their Premier League title charge, reaching the showcase event completely unbeaten.

Mikel Arteta’s side cruised through the league phase with eight victories, before navigating the knockout rounds with three wins and three draws to book their ticket to Budapest.

Southampton have been expelled from the EFL Championship playoffs following a spying scandal involving their rivals, stripping them of the chance to fight for promotion to the Premier League.

Southampton had successfully reached the EFL Championship playoff final, where they were set to face Hull City for a coveted spot back in the Premier League. However, the governing body has made the dramatic decision to disqualify the Saints from the playoffs after they were found guilty following an espionage complaint.

After an investigation was launched in response to a complaint filed by Middlesbrough, Southampton admitted to breaches against Oxford United in December 2025, Ipswich Town in April 2026, and Middlesbrough in May 2026, according to an official statement released by the English Football League.

Specifically, Southampton violated two key regulations within the EFL Championship framework. The club was charged with breaking EFL Regulation 3.4, which demands that clubs behave toward one another with the utmost good faith, and Regulation 127, which strictly prohibits any club from viewing, or attempting to view, another club’s training session within 72 hours of a scheduled match between the two sides.

Furthermore, the EFL announced that Southampton retains the right to appeal the decision made by the Independent Disciplinary Committee, noting that the club is actively working to resolve any appeal by Wednesday, May 20. In light of this, the governing body indicated that scheduling adjustments could be made for the final on Saturday, May 24, depending on the outcome.

An Independent Disciplinary Commission has today expelled Southampton from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other Clubs’ training.

In addition, the Club has received a… pic.twitter.com/VxyXFk48BA

— EFL Communications (@EFL_Comms) May 19, 2026

Who’s replacing Southampton?

Following the confirmation of Southampton’s expulsion from the EFL Championship playoffs, Middlesbrough will step in to replace the Saints. They will now face Hull City for a place in the Premier League on Saturday, May 24, at Wembley Stadium.

Middlesbrough’s selection as the replacement stems from the fact that they were the team defeated by Southampton in the playoff semifinals, suffering a narrow 1-0 loss on aggregate.

What other charges will Southampton face?

On top of being barred from competing in the EFL Championship playoff final—missing out on a guaranteed minimum revenue of £110 million from Premier League broadcasting rights—Southampton have also been hit with a four-point deduction, which will be applied at the start of next season.

Arsenal secured the Premier League title and ended a lengthy drought without major success.

This Tuesday, the 2025-26 Premier League title race was decided with Manchester City’s unexpected draw to Bournemouth. That result left Arsenal at the top of the standings with an unassailable lead, securing the club’s first league title in a long time.

Arsenal last won the Premier League trophy 22 years ago, when they captured the 2003-04 title under legendary head coach Arsene Wenger. That squad finished comfortably ahead of runners-up Chelsea, who ended the campaign 11 points behind.

The Gunners that season featured stars such as Thierry Henry — the Premier League’s top scorer that year with 30 goals — Dennis Bergkamp, Robert Pires, Cesc Fabregas, Patrick Vieira and Ashley Cole. During that campaign, they earned the nickname ‘The Invincibles’ after going unbeaten across all 38 league matches.

The 2025-26 title under Mikel Arteta is Arsenal’s fourth since the creation of the Premier League in 1992. Before 2004, they had also been crowned champions in 1997-98 and 2001-02. Prior to that, the London side won 10 titles in the old Football League First Division, which served as England’s top flight for more than a century.

The 22-year drought Arsenal ended this Tuesday was the longest spell without a league title in club history since their first championship in 1931. Their previous longest droughts lasted 18 years, between 1953 and 1971, and then again until 1989.

Clubs with the most English league titles

Taking into account both the Football League First Division and Premier League eras, Arsenal are the third-most successful club in English league history with 14 titles. Only Manchester United and Liverpool rank higher, with 20 each.

Here is the full list of English league champions:

1- Manchester United – 20 titles
1- Liverpool – 20 titles
3- Arsenal – 14 titles
4- Manchester City – 10 titles
5- Everton – 9 titles
6- Aston Villa – 7 titles
7- Chelsea – 6 titles
7- Sunderland – 6 titles
9- Sheffield Wednesday – 4 titles
9- Newcastle United – 4 titles

Arsenal facing another historic opportunity

This Arsenal squad will be remembered for ending the longest league-title drought in club history by winning the Premier League. But they could elevate their legacy even further by claiming what would arguably be the most important trophy in the club’s history.

On May 30 at Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary, Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final. There, the Gunners will have the chance to win the competition for the first time, as it will be only their second appearance in the final after losing to Barcelona in 2006.

After his tense relationship with Arne Slot, Mohamed Salah decided to leave Liverpool, while also delivering explosive public comments. In response, club legend Jamie Carragher criticized the Egyptian star, even comparing his departure to Cristiano Ronaldo’s one from Manchester United.

Mohamed Salah has not enjoyed the best season of his career, eventually losing his starting role under Arne Slot, a situation that later culminated in his departure from Liverpool. Far from having a quiet exit, the Egyptian star posted a controversial message on social media. In response, Reds legend Jamie Carragher delivered a harsh criticism of Salah, even comparing the situation to Cristiano Ronaldo’s turbulent departure from Manchester United.

After the latest defeat Mohamed Salah posted a strong message on his X profile, criticizing the team’s poor run of results. In addition, the Egyptian star appeared to take aim at Arne Slot’s tactical approach, making it clear that he wants to see the more attacking style. With this becoming his second major public criticism, Carragher sees strong similarities between the Egyptian and Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial exit from the Red Devils.

“I’m not surprised. I told everyone: something’s going to happen before the end of the season. He’ll drop another bombshell, a bit like Ronaldo did when he left Manchester United… I called him selfish in an interview, and I still stand by that. Liverpool have a crucial week coming up; they haven’t secured their Champions League spot yet, and the focus should be on Liverpool FC, not Salah FC,” Carragher said, via Sky Sports.

Like Salah, Ronaldo also made explosive remarks about Manchester United. “When I signed for Manchester United, I expected things to have changed. I spent nine years at Real Madrid, then at Juventus… but I was negatively surprised. Everything was still the same — the technology, everything… Right now, it’s a club that is not at the highest level,” he said, via Piers Morgan. With this in mind, both stars left under controversial circumstances, despite being legends.

Arne Slot may not rule out Salah vs. Brentford after his remarks

Not only has Jamie Carragher criticized Mohamed Salah for his recent comments, but Wayne Rooney has also publicly questioned the Egyptian star’s behavior, suggesting that he should be dropped for the match vs Brentford. Because of this, Arne Slot appears to have significant backing if he chooses to bench the legend for his final match at Anfield. Even so, the Dutch head coach may not have intention of completely leaving the 34-year-old star out of the squad.

Liverpool FC have revealed that a special mosaic will be displayed at Anfield to honor both Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson. Because of this, Arne Slot is not expected to leave the Egyptian star out of the stands entirely due to the farewell tribute for both legends. In addition, the Dutch head coach already gave Salah minutes against Aston Villa, making it clear that there are no physical concerns surrounding the 34-year-old forward.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia continues to reshape the direction of the Saudi Pro League, with league officials now reportedly discussing major new foreign player regulations that could dramatically change the competition’s future.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia continues to reshape the direction of the Saudi Pro League, with league officials now reportedly discussing major new foreign player regulations that could dramatically change the competition’s future. The proposed changes are already creating debate among clubs, supporters, and analysts as Saudi soccer searches for the right balance between global star power and local player development.

The Saudi Pro League has grown rapidly since Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in early 2023. Since then, some of soccer’s biggest names have followed him to the Kingdom, transforming the league into one of the sport’s fastest-growing competitions.

According to reports circulating from meetings involving league officials and club representatives, several new proposals are currently being considered behind closed doors. The discussions could lead to one of the most significant rule changes since the Saudi Pro League began aggressively recruiting international stars.

Ronaldo himself recently acknowledged the impact his transfer had on Saudi soccer’s global rise. Speaking in a conversation with England great Rio Ferdinand, the Portuguese forward made it clear he believes his move opened the door for many of the league’s elite signings. “I was the first to come to this league, and the rest came because of me,” the 41-year-old superstar said.

His arrival was later followed by players such as Karim Benzema, Neymar, N’Golo Kante, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrez, and Ivan Toney. Saudi soccer authorities now appear ready to take another ambitious step. The latest discussions focus on how many foreign players clubs should be allowed to use during league matches.

Three possible options under discussion

Zone 1 has revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that three separate foreign player models are currently being debated by Saudi Pro League officials. Meetings with club executives are already underway, with a final decision expected soon.

The first proposal would allow 10 foreign players on the pitch at the same time. Such a move would create one of the most internationally focused domestic leagues in world soccer.

The second proposal, which is reportedly closest to approval, would permit nine foreign players on the field while one foreign player would be excluded from the matchday squad. Many insiders believe this option offers a compromise between competitiveness and squad balance.

The third option would keep stricter limits in place by allowing eight foreign players on the pitch while two remain on the bench. Supporters of this approach believe it offers the best long-term pathway for Saudi player development.

Current rules already changed the league structure

The Saudi Pro League already introduced major foreign player reforms ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. Under the current system, clubs can register 25 players, including up to 10 non-Saudi players.

Eight foreign players can be senior internationals without age restrictions, while two additional foreign spots are reserved for players born in 2003 or later. Clubs may also register one foreign-born player who was born inside Saudi Arabia and meets specific eligibility criteria.

On matchdays, teams are currently allowed to field eight foreign players plus one Saudi-born foreign player. That means a maximum of nine non-Saudi players can appear during league matches under existing regulations.

League officials introduced these rules in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Soccer Federation as part of a broader long-term development plan. Workshops involving club representatives reportedly played a major role before the framework was approved.

Cristiano Ronaldo could be set to lose a key teammate for Al Nassr's final Saudi Pro League fixture against Damac, as Marcelo Brozovic’s availability hangs in the balance.

Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of a massive opportunity to lift his first official title with Al Nassr as they prepare to face Damac on the final matchday of the Saudi Pro League, where a victory would crown them league champions. However, the Portuguese superstar might have to do it without a vital teammate, as Marcelo Brozovic’s availability for the clash remains shrouded in doubt.

According to a report from Saudi outlet Al-Riyadiyah, Brozovic underwent an additional treatment session on Tuesday, but his chances of featuring in the season finale have significantly diminished.

The Croatian midfielder was notably absent from Al Nassr’s recent 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, after picking up a muscle injury during the dramatic 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.

However, it is not all bad news for Cristiano Ronaldo. Reports suggest that Kingsley Coman has fully recovered ahead of the crucial SPL showdown. After coming off the bench against Gamba Osaka, the French forward is expected to return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s match against Damac.

Optimism surrounding other players

Brozovic’s injury brings plenty of anxiety to the Al Nassr camp, given that their entire season rests on this final fixture against Damac. Amidst this setback, the club did receive some positive updates regarding other players who were previously considered doubts due to various fitness concerns.

In addition to Coman, the report notes that Angelo Gabriel, Abdulelah Al-Amri, and Abdullah Al-Khaibari will undergo a specialized treatment session before training. This is intended to ensure they are completely pain-free before being cleared for selection in Thursday’s season finale.

A massive loss for Cristiano

Losing Brozovic is undoubtedly a heavy blow to Al Nassr’s midfield, where he provides crucial defensive stability and dictates the tempo of the play. It is equally a major setback for Cristiano Ronaldo, as the two boast impressive numbers when sharing the pitch.

Out of the 105 matches the duo have played together, Al Nassr have emerged victorious in 75, drawing 11 and losing just 19. Furthermore, Cristiano has found the back of the net five times courtesy of a Brozovic assist, while the Croatian playmaker has scored twice from Ronaldo’s setups.

Manchester City will be clashing with Bournemouth in a game that could bring the Premier League title race with Arsenal to an end depending on the final result.

Manchester City travel to Bournemouth on Tuesday, May 19, at the Vitality Stadium for Matchday 37 of the 2025-26 Premier League in a game that could have major implications for the title race. Depending on the result, Arsenal could be handed the opportunity to end their long wait for a league championship without even kicking a ball.

City head into the fixture in strong form domestically, riding an unbeaten run of 22 games capped by a 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Chelsea at the weekend. Bournemouth, however, will be no pushover, having gone 16 Premier League games unbeaten themselves while keeping alive their remarkable push to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the club’s history.

The backdrop at Manchester City is complicated further by reports emerging over the weekend that Pep Guardiola will be departing at the end of the season. While no official announcement has been made, the news has added an emotionally charged dimension to the final stretch of the campaign, and it remains to be seen how the squad responds on the pitch.

How a Man City win affects the Premier League title race

A victory for City on Tuesday would push them to 80 points from 37 games and keep the title race alive heading into the final weekend. The gap behind Arsenal would be cut to two points, but with the Gunners needing just a point from their final game, the odds are firmly in their favor.

On the final matchday, Arsenal travel to Crystal Palace, a side already safe from relegation and with their sights set on the UEFA Conference League final. City, meanwhile, would host Aston Villa, a tougher proposition, and would need to win while hoping Arsenal stumble, an unlikely but no longer impossible scenario.

How a Man City draw affects the Premier League title race

A draw at Bournemouth would effectively end the title race on Tuesday night. The point would leave City on 78, and with Arsenal sitting on 82, the four-point gap would be mathematically insurmountable heading into the final matchday.

That outcome would hand Arsenal the Premier League title without them needing to play on Sunday, a significant boost with the Champions League final also on the horizon. It would also mark the club’s first league title since the legendary “Invincibles” season of 2003-04.

How a Man City defeat affects the Premier League title race

A loss for City at the Vitality Stadium would also bring the title race to a close. Bournemouth’s victory would leave the Citizens stranded on 77 points from 37 games, five behind Arsenal, a gap that cannot be closed in a single remaining fixture.

In that scenario, the Premier League trophy would be heading to the Emirates regardless of what happens on the final day, with Arsenal crowned champions for the first time in over two decades.

Cristiano Ronaldo could soon witness one of the biggest managerial appointments in soccer history as Al-Nassr reportedly intensifies efforts to bring Pep Guardiola to Saudi Arabia.

Cristiano Ronaldo could soon witness one of the biggest managerial appointments in soccer history as Al-Nassr reportedly intensifies efforts to bring Pep Guardiola to Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Pro League leader is already preparing for the possible departure of Jorge Jesus, while Guardiola’s future at Manchester City suddenly appears closer to an emotional conclusion after a decade of dominance in England.

Reports from the Kingdom claim negotiations between Al-Nassr and Guardiola are already underway. The move would represent another major statement from Saudi soccer, which continues attracting some of the sport’s biggest stars.

The Spaniard is expected to take charge of Manchester City for the final time this weekend, bringing an extraordinary chapter at the Etihad Stadium toward its conclusion. Since arriving in 2016, the Catalan coach transformed City into one of the most dominant clubs European soccer has ever seen.

During his ten years in Manchester, Guardiola won six Premier League titles, multiple domestic cups, and delivered the club’s first UEFA Champions League trophy. His teams also completed a historic treble in 2023 after lifting the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in the same season.

The Manchester City manager leaves behind a soccer philosophy that reshaped English soccer. His possession-based system, positional play, and tactical innovation became the standard that many clubs attempted to imitate.

Al-Nassr prepares extraordinary offer

While Guardiola’s farewell dominates headlines in England, Saudi Arabia is already preparing an astonishing proposal to convince him to continue his career in Riyadh. With Manchester City future already out of the picture for Pep Guardiola, he is sadi to be in talks with Al-Nassr to take over as head coach of the club.

According to Saudi newspaper Al-Youm, Ronaldo’s side has offered Guardiola an annual salary worth $150 million, which would make him the highest-paid manager in soccer history. This sum illustrates the Middle Eastern club’s resolve to get a highly renowned soccer coach. It would place Guardiola far above every other manager financially and further demonstrate the growing ambition of the Saudi Pro League.

“Al-Nassr Saudi Club offered Guardiola to coach the team, with an annual salary of $150 million, which would be the highest salary in history,” the report confirmed. The timing of the move also connects directly to uncertainty surrounding Jorge Jesus. Reports in recent days suggested the Portuguese coach is close to leaving Al-Nassr despite guiding the club through a strong campaign.

Jorge Jesus’ future creates opening at Al-Nassr

Al-Nassr remains locked in an intense Saudi Pro League title battle, but speculation around Jorge Jesus continues growing. The Portuguese manager reportedly does not plan to stay beyond the current season, even with the club competing for major trophies.

That uncertainty appears to have accelerated Al-Nassr’s search for a potential successor. Guardiola instantly emerged as the dream target due to his global reputation and proven ability to build winning teams. The possibility of Ronaldo working under the 55-year-old boss would also create one of the most fascinating storylines in soccer.

The pair famously shared a fierce rivalry during Guardiola’s years managing Barcelona while Ronaldo starred for Real Madrid. Now, years later, Saudi Arabia could unexpectedly unite two of soccer’s most iconic figures under the same project.

While the two Riyadh giants remain separated by just two points, growing uncertainty around both managers has suddenly added another layer of tension to the final days of the campaign.

The Saudi Pro League title race has become even more dramatic as Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus at Al-Nassr continue battling Karim Benzema’s Al-Hilal side, led by Simone Inzaghi, with only one match remaining in the season. While the two Riyadh giants remain separated by just two points, growing uncertainty around both managers has suddenly added another layer of tension to the final days of the campaign.

Al-Nassr currently leads the table with 83 points, while Al-Hilal sits close behind on 81 points after 33 matches. As both clubs chase domestic glory, reports emerging from Italy and Saudi Arabia suggest major changes could soon arrive on the benches of both title contenders.

The Saudi Pro League title battle will go down to the final round after Al-Hilal kept its hopes alive with a victory over NEOM. That result ensured Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr could not celebrate the championship early, leaving the pressure firmly on Jorge Jesus and his players ahead of the decisive matchday. Al-Nassr knows that a victory over Damac will secure the club’s first domestic league title since 2019, regardless of what happens elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the Blue Waves must defeat Al-Fayha and hope its rival drops points if the club wants to complete a late comeback and secure a record-extending 20th league title. The tension surrounding the title race has only intensified because of the uncertainty around both managers.

Reports in recent days have suggested that Jorge Jesus is already considering his future away from Al-Nassr despite leading the club through one of its strongest campaigns in recent years. According to ESPN Brasil journalist Bruno Andrade, the veteran Portuguese coach does not intend to renew his contract beyond the current season. His long-term ambition is reportedly linked to the Portugal national team job after the 2026 World Cup.

Simone Inzaghi’s future suddenly becomes uncertain

At the same time, attention has also turned toward Al-Hilal boss Simone Inzaghi. The Italian coach arrived in Saudi Arabia last summer after leaving Inter, signing a lucrative two-year deal reportedly worth around $30 million per season.

However, despite impressive results on paper, reports now indicate that Simone Inzaghi is expected to leave Al-Hilal after only one season in charge. The decision is expected to become official after the club’s final league match.

According to reports from TuttoMercatoWeb, dissatisfaction over expensive summer signings and changes within the club’s ownership structure played a major role in shaping the situation. Several high-profile transfers reportedly failed to meet expectations, placing added pressure on the coaching staff despite the team remaining competitive throughout the season.

Inzaghi’s overall numbers remain extremely strong. Under his leadership, Al-Hilal played 51 matches, winning 37, drawing 12, and losing only twice. Still, expectations at Al-Hilal go beyond strong statistics. The club expects dominance both domestically and internationally, especially after investing heavily in the squad during the summer transfer window.

Why Al-Hilal may still move on despite strong results

Although Al-Hilal remains unbeaten for most of the season and continues fighting for the title until the final day, internal expectations reportedly remain much higher. Expensive arrivals such as Darwin Nunez reportedly failed to fully convince the club hierarchy, creating frustration behind the scenes.

The report also indicates that a recent ownership change at Al-Hilal has influenced the club’s direction moving forward. The new leadership is believed to be considering a different long-term vision despite Inzaghi maintaining impressive results during his short spell in Riyadh.

At the same time, Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr faces its own uncertainty surrounding Jorge Jesus. The possibility of both title rivals entering next season with new managers would completely reshape the Saudi soccer landscape.

With the arrival of Xabi Alonso, Chelsea appear to be preparing for another busy transfer window, especially as João Pedro continues to be strongly linked with a move to Barcelona. In response, the Blues are reportedly targeting Victor Osimhen as their marquee signing to reinforce the attack.

After the dismissals of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, Chelsea have decided to make a radical shift in their sporting project, handing Xabi Alonso full control to lead the rebuild. With his arrival, they are reportedly open to changing their transfer strategy by prioritizing more established signings. Amid the growing rumors linking João Pedro with Barcelona, the Blues are now reportedly pursuing Victor Osimhen as a marquee addition for the attack.

João Pedro’s impressive first season at Chelsea has reportedly called the attention from the Blaugranas, making him their priority signing. After recently paying €63.7 million to Brighton & Hove Albion FC, the Blues reportedly have no intention of letting the Brazilian striker leave during the summer of 2026. Even so, failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League could push João to force a move towards Barcelona. In light of this, Osimhen’s arrival emerges as a key asset.

According to Graeme Bailey, via TEAMtalk, the representatives of Victor Osimhen are actively seeking an exit from Galatasaray SK, as the Nigerian striker wants to compete once again in Europe’s top leagues. Because of this, Chelsea have reportedly reignited their interest in his signing, considering his arrival completely necessary. In addition, Alonso’s appointment could further attract Osimhen toward Stamford Bridge.

Despite Chelsea FC’s strong interest in Victor Osimhen, completing the transfer would be far from simple. As a cornerstone player for Galatasaray SK, they would demand a fee close to €100 million, according to TEAMtalk. For Xabi Alonso to secure the Nigerian striker, the potential departure of João Pedro to Barcelona could become crucial, as the Blues would likely need a comparable financial income to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.

Xabi Alonso faces difficult task to rebuild Chelsea’s roster

Since BlueCo took over Chelsea, they has invested heavily in signing young players. However, neither Enzo Maresca nor Liam Rosenior managed to fully develop several of those talents, with Mamadou Sarr, Dário Essugo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Roméo Lavia among the clearest examples. Because of this, Xabi Alonso now faces the difficult task of rebuilding the squad, while also deciding which players should leave the club during the summer of 2026.

With such a defined tactical identity, Xabi Alonso could decide not to rely on several of Chelsea’s expensive signings, with Alejandro Garnacho emerging as one of the most notable cases. In addition, the defensive line remains the most crowded area of the squad, yet it still fails to fully convince. Because of this, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Benoît Badiashile could all leave the club, as the Spanish head coach reportedly prefers more developed players.

Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of winning the Saudi Pro League, and for the decisive game against Damac FC, he'll be reportedly counting with Al Nassr star Kingsley Coman.

Cristiano Ronaldo will have the chance to secure the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title this Thursday in a high-stakes season finale against Damac FC, a match where he’ll need the absolute best from himself and his supporting cast. In a significant boost for the winner-take-all clash, reports claim that Al Nassr star winger Kingsley Coman has fully recovered and will be available.

The Saudi powerhouse took a massive emotional hit on Saturday, crashing out of the AFC Champions League Two final with a 1-0 loss to Gamba Osaka. While dreams of a historic double have faded, the squad has no time to lick its wounds with another trophy on the line in less than a week, and Ronaldo is already seeing reinforcements return to the pitch.

According to Saudi outlet Al Arriyadiyah, Coman has shown complete readiness to rejoin the starting XI for the match against Damac FC. Al Nassr returned to the training grounds on Monday following a scheduled rest day on Sunday, and the Frenchman reportedly participated fully without showing any signs of lingering physical discomfort.

Despite being one of the team’s most lethal weapons, Coman began the final against Gamba Osaka on the bench due to a recent muscle strain, a pre-match gamble manager Jorge Jesus later addressed. “Our team is physically exhausted, and we took a gamble by playing Coman and Angelo,” the Portuguese tactician admitted during his post-match press conference.

The French winger eventually entered the match in the 66th minute but struggled to alter the momentum with Al Nassr already chasing the game. However, with Al Arriyadiyah reporting a full recovery, Ronaldo will have his primary playmaker back in the fold, a crucial connection, considering five of the 12 assists Coman has delivered in his debut Al Nassr campaign have directly set up the Portuguese legend.

Brozovic remains the biggest question mark for Al Nassr

With Coman cleared, Al Nassr are expected to deploy a terrifying, star-studded attack featuring the Frenchman and Sadio Mane on the flanks, Joao Felix operating as a false nine, and Ronaldo spearheading the frontline. However, that immense firepower could face transitional issues in the buildup and defensive phases, as midfield anchor Marcelo Brozovic remains a major doubt.

The same report from Al Arriyadiyah all but ruled out a quick return for the Croatian international. The veteran midfielder, who was sorely missed during the continental final against Gamba Osaka, spent Monday continuing his rehabilitation and treatment sessions inside the medical clinic at the “Dar Al-Nassr” training center.

On paper, Al Nassr enter the match as heavy favorites against a 15th-place Damac side sitting on just 29 points. But with the visitors needing a single point to mathematically guarantee safety from relegation, and boasting a direct style that ranks third in the SPL in long balls per game (21.1), playing without Brozovic to shield the backline could cost Ronaldo’s side dearly.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the 2025-26 SPL Player of the Season award, but is facing a fierce competition from Ivan Toney and his own teammate Joao Felix.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the Player of the Season award in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League after another standout campaign at Al Nassr. However, the Portuguese legend will face stiff competition from Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney and his own teammate Joao Felix in the race for the honor.

On Sunday, the Saudi Pro League published its 2025-26 Season Awards nominees on its official website, with Ronaldo once again among those in the running for the top individual prize of the campaign.

Alongside the Player of the Season, the other categories up for grabs include Saudi Player of the Season, Manager of the Season and Best Young Talent of the Season. Voting opened on Sunday, with the winners set to be revealed once the league season concludes.

As with the previous edition, the voting breakdown has already been established. The head coaches and captains of all 18 SPL clubs will each account for 40 percent of the overall vote, the Kingdom’s leading sports journalists will contribute 15 percent, and fans of the league will make up the remaining 5 percent.

Ronaldo will have the chance to potentially clinch the SPL title when Al Nassr host Damac FC on Thursday, May 21, in what could be the day he ends the club’s long trophy drought. The following day, Friday, May 22, following the conclusion of the final matchweek, the award winners will be officially announced.

Cristiano Ronaldo and the competition for SPL Player of the Season

Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has consistently been one of the most impactful players in the league, and this season has been no different, with his performances at the heart of Al Nassr’s push for the title. On an individual level, the 41-year-old has posted 26 goals and three assists across 29 games, placing him among the leaders in direct goal contributions.

The competition, however, is fierce. Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney currently leads the SPL scoring charts with 32 goals and six assists in 31 games, while Mexican international Julian Quiñones has registered 30 goals and four assists in 30 appearances for Al Qadsiah. Joao Felix, Ronaldo’s Al Nassr teammate, rounds out the standout candidates with 20 goals and 13 assists across 32 games, a combination of goalscoring and creativity that makes him a compelling contender.

One potential advantage for the Al Nassr duo is the trend established by recent award winners. Karim Benzema claimed the Player of the Season in 2024-25 and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in 2023-24, with both Al Ittihad and Al Hilal producing those winners respectively. The pattern suggests that team success carries significant weight with voters, which could tip the balance in favor of players from a title-winning side.

SPL Awards: categories and nominees

Player of the Season

• Ivan Toney (Al Ahli)
• Julian Quiñones (Al Qadsiah)
• Ruben Neves (Al Hilal)
• Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
• Joao Felix (Al Nassr)

Best Young Talent of the Season

• Hammam Al Hammami (Al Shabab)
• Abdulaziz Al Elewa (Al Kholood)
• Abdulaziz Al Suwailem (Al Fateh)
• Sabri Dahal (Al Fayha)
• Sultan Harun (Al Riyadh)

Manager of the Season

• Jorge Jesus (Al Nassr)
• Matthias Jaissle (Al Ahli)
• Brendan Rodgers (Al Qadsiah)
• Simone Inzaghi (Al Hilal)
• Saad Al Shehri (Al Ettifaq)

Saudi Player of the Season

• Salem Al Dawsari (Al Hilal)
• Khalid Al Ghannam (Al Ettifaq)
• Musab Al Juwayr (Al Qadsiah)
• Abdulelah Al Amri (Al Nassr)
• Hattan Bahebri (Al Kholood)

Reports have emerged announcing Pep Guardiola's departure from Manchester City after 10 years, prompting questions on who is the main candidate to replace him.

Pep Guardiola has written a legacy at Manchester City, turning the Citizens into the dominant side of Manchester over the last few years. However, reports have emerged that his 10-year tenure will be coming to an end at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, with questions prompting on who will be assigned to replace the legendary Spanish coach.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano and Ben Jacobs, Pep Guardiola is expected to leave Manchester City in the summer of 2026. An official announcement is yet to be made by the club as City are still in the Premier League title race, but as reported by the journalists, Guardiola will be bidding farewell in the coming days.

Questions over his continuity arose especially taking into account that Guardiola’s current deal runs until June 2027. In fact, the former FC Barcelona manager previously dismissed the possibility of leaving the Mancunian side, with this remaining year seen as the main factor of his continuity.

Before lifting the FA Cup against Chelsea on Saturday, Guardiola was asked if he was going to leave during his press conference: “No way. No way. I have a one year (left on my) contract,” he stated, before addressing how Wembley Stadium has turned into one of his favorite stages.

“I’m so disappointed that they don’t make a stand for Pep (at Wembley), the number of times I’ve been there – at least a lounge or a box. Maybe I go 24 more times. It’s been a special place, with Barcelona in 1992, and after against Manchester United with Barcelona for the second time and many times since I am here with semi-finals and finals. It’s really good to go to Wembley again. Top,” he stated last Saturday.

However, reports are now claiming that Guardiola is set to put an end to the tenure he began back on July 1, 2016, ten years later. Through that span, he claimed multiple records and conquered six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, 5 EFL Cups, three FA Community Shields, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, and one FIFA Club World Cup to make a total of 20 titles with the Citizens.

Who will replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City?

With the status as the best coach in Manchester City history, and one of the best of all time, replacing Pep Guardiola won’t be an easy task for any of the candidates put to embrace the challenge. However, the board is trusting in one of his latest disciples and a familiar face to take his seat.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Enzo Maresca is positioned as the only replacement for Pep Guardiola. After his sacking from Chelsea in January, the club has reportedly been working on securing his future to be part of the club, with Maresca reportedly accepting the project months ago even before the Guardiola decision was reported.

Maresca is deeply rooted in the City soccer structure, having first arrived in 2020 to lead the U-23 squad to a Premier League 2 title. After a brief stint managing Parma, he returned to the Etihad in 2022 as Guardiola’s lead assistant, replacing Juanma Lillo. A year later, he took the reins at Leicester City and engineered their promotion back to the top flight, earning a move to Chelsea, where he coached the Blues to a revamped FIFA Club World Cup title in 2025.

Former City captain and club legend Vincent Kompany was briefly floated as a potential candidate, but the Belgian’s recent contract extension with Bayern Munich through June 2029 quickly removed him from the running. With the field cleared, Maresca is now poised for his third stint in Manchester, this time taking the ultimate seat as head coach of the first team.

Robert Lewandowski is just one goal away from writing his name in FC Barcelona's top 10 historic goalscoring list, prompting questions on how far he sits from legend Lionel Messi.

Robert Lewandowski has already said his goodbyes to FC Barcelona fans at Camp Nou, but he still has one final opportunity to etch his name a little deeper into the club’s history by cracking the all-time top 10 scorers list. With that milestone within reach, the question of just how far the Polish striker stands from the club’s greatest legend, Lionel Messi, is worth examining.

In the match against Real Betis on Sunday, Lewandowski was substituted in the 85th minute to a standing ovation from the Camp Nou crowd, and after the final whistle he took to the center of the pitch alongside his family to say his farewells. “Thank you very much for coming today; for me, this is an emotional and difficult day, but when I arrived, I knew this was a massive club, and with your affection, it has been incredible,” he began.

“From day one, I felt at home. I will never forget when you chant my name. Thank you to the players, the coaches, and the staff; it has been an honor to work for this club. We have experienced great moments over these four years, and I feel proud of everything we have done together. I say goodbye at the stadium, but I will always carry Barca in my heart. Thank you to you, the fans. Once a Culer, always a Culer. Visca el Barca and visca Catalunya,” he concluded, visibly moved by the occasion.

Across his four seasons at Barcelona, Lewandowski has accumulated 119 goals in 192 appearances, posting an impressive scoring rate of 0.62 goals per game despite arriving at the club at the age of 33. With Barcelona having already secured the La Liga title, there is one game remaining against Valencia on Saturday, May 23, giving the striker a final opportunity to add to his legacy.

According to Transfermarkt, Lewandowski currently sits 11th on the all-time Barcelona scoring charts, one goal behind Josep Escola, who played for the club in the 1930s and 1940s and recorded 120 goals in 191 appearances. A single goal against Valencia would draw him level with Escola and move him into the top 10; two would give him sole possession of that spot.

The comparison with his time at Bayern Munich is instructive. Lewandowski stands as the Bavarians’ second all-time top scorer with 344 goals, trailing only the legendary Gerd Müller at 570. The key distinction is that he spent eight years at Bayern in the prime of his career, while arriving at Barcelona already as a veteran, making his four-year impact at the Catalan club all the more remarkable.

Lewandowski still far from the top foreign scorers and Messi

In just four seasons, Lewandowski won over the Barcelona fanbase during a period marked by financial uncertainty and institutional upheaval at the club. Yet when it comes to pure output, he falls short not only of Lionel Messi but also of several foreign legends who left their mark at the Blaugrana.

Messi stands alone at the top of the all-time scoring charts with 672 goals in 778 games, an extraordinary average of 0.86 goals per game, equating to a goal roughly every 95 minutes. Lewandowski’s rate of one goal every 118 minutes, while impressive for a player of his age, highlights the considerable gap between the two.

Among Barcelona’s foreign-born scorers specifically, Lewandowski currently sits seventh, trailing Luis Suarez with 195 goals, Laszlo Kubala with 193, Samuel Eto’o and Rivaldo with 130 each, and Patrick Kluivert with 122. Notably, however, Lewandowski has achieved his tally in fewer appearances than any other player on that list, making his four-year contribution one of the most efficient in the club’s modern era.

While AC Milan started the season in plain form, they have had numerous inconsistencies, putting at risk their UEFA Champions League spot. Compounding their struggles, Zlatan Ibrahimovic reportedly told Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao and three more stars that are out of Massimiliano Allegri’s plans.

AC Milan impressed with their impact in the start of the season, leading the Serie A standings for several weeks. Nonetheless, they have had several inconsistencies, putting at risk their Champions League spot. Far from having an easy season-ending, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Massimiliano Allegri have reportedly clashed, as the Swede executive revealed Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao, and three stars that are out of the project.

According to Pietro Mazzara, via MilanNews, Zlatan Ibrahimović has reportedly personally informed Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leão, Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Youssouf Fofana that Massimiliano Allegri does not count on them for next season. Being a topic expected to be discussed until the end of the campaign, the Italian coach is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated and is now seriously considering leaving the club.

Far from being the first conflict between Ibrahimovic and Allegri, both have reportedly clashed as the Swede spoke directly with some players to tactical advices. With this in mind, the Rossoneri may need to decide whether keep Zlatan or Massimiliano for the 2026-27 season. Moreover, Igli Tare’s sporting director spot is at risk, targeting Tony D’Amico as his replacement, complicating AC Milan plans for the upcoming season.

Due to his huge impact in AC Milan, Massimiliano Allegri has also been calling the attention of several teams. After Italy’s failure in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, he has been named as the main target to keep the head coach spot. For that reason, the Italian coach may be the chosen to leave, but the Rossoneri may still chase to smooth things over, as both remain as cornerstones for the sporting project.

AC Milan’s squad changes may hinge on securing Champions League spot

Although AC Milan showed flashes of brilliance during the 2025-26 season, Massimiliano Allegri still faced several issues within the squad. They lack depth and quality in midfield, while the attack also needs reinforcements, prompting them to explore multiple transfer targets. However, the Rossoneri’s summer plans could still depend heavily on securing a UEFA Champions League spot, as the competition’s financial boost may ultimately shape their 2026 transfer strategy.

In case they reached to defeat Cagliari, the Rossoneri may secure their Champions League spot, allowing them to receive a significant amount of money. With this, they could attract world-class players, as they would compete for big titles. While Ibrahimovic and Allegri’s dilemma keeps shinning, AC Milan are reportedly working on reinforcing the roster, contemplating both to continue at the helm of the team.

After battling to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League, Mohamed Salah posted a strong message that appeared to contain subtle criticism toward Arne Slot of Liverpool FC. In response, Wayne Rooney delivered a strong criticism at the Egyptian legend.

Despite winning the 2024-25 Premier League title, Liverpool have struggled throughout this season, battling to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League. Amid this difficult period, Mohamed Salah posted a strong message on social media that appeared to contain subtle criticism toward head coach Arne Slot. In response, English legend Wayne Rooney decided to publicly criticize the Egyptian star, further escalating the situation.

Following the loss to Aston Villa, Mohamed Salah has decided to post a scathing critique of the Reds’ performance and style of play. “…Us crumbling to yet another defeat this season was very painful and not what our fans deserve. I want to see Liverpool go back to being the heavy metal attacking team that opponents fear… qualifying to next season’s Champions League is the bare minimum,” he posted, via X.

In light of this statements, Wayne Rooney has decided to support Liverpool head coach Arne Slot, delivering bold criticism to Salah “I just think for Salah to come out and aim another dig at Arne Slot, listen, whether Arne Slot’s there next season or not, I think it’s really disappointing. If I was Arne Slot I’d have him nowhere near the stadium in the last game… I think he’s been very selfish in what he’s done in the two occasions,” he said, via BBC.

While Liverpool FC have not enjoyed their best season, Salah’s criticism has not helped solve the team’s problems, instead placing even more attention on the negative aspects. In addition, many supporters are reportedly unhappy with his reaction, viewing it as a message directed at Arne Slot. Having only one match remaining before the end of the season, the Egyptian star could reportedly finish the campaign either out of the squad or once again on the bench.

Mohamed Salah’s dip in form had a negative impact on Liverpool

At the beginning of the 2025-26 season, head coach Arne Slot kept Mohamed Salah as an undisputed starter, especially after the Egyptian star delivered 34 goals and 23 assists in the previous campaign. However, Salah failed to make the same impact this season, leaving Liverpool looking far too dependent on his offensive production. As a result, he was gradually relegated to a secondary role, creating major tension within the dressing room.

Having scored only 12 goals and provided just nine assists, Salah was no longer the most productive player for Liverpool, especially as his impact without the ball also failed to stand out. Because of this, Slot decided to place greater trust in Alexander Isak as well as Jeremie Frimpong. However, neither player managed to produce an impact close to what the Egyptian star had delivered in previous seasons, directly contributing to their disappointing campaign.

José Mourinho has reportedly reached an agreement to return to Real Madrid CF, aiming to lead a major squad rebuild. As part of this process, the Portuguese manager has supposedly identified three key areas that need reinforcement.

Following the successful era of Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid CF have struggled to maintain their dominance. Because of this, they are set for the beginning of a new cycle, planning major changes throughout the squad. Alongside this, José Mourinho has supposedly agreed to return to the club in an attempt to rebuild the sporting project. In addition, he is reportedly aiming to strengthen the squad in three key positions.

According to Sky Sports, via X, formerly Twitter, José Mourinho has agreed to return to Real Madrid CF, 13 years after his departure from the club. With a two-year contract, he will reportedly be tasked with rebuilding the sporting project after the disappointing spells of Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa. In addition, Mourinho is supposedly set to receive greater authority over squad decisions, alongside stronger backing from the front office regarding his choices.

With his return to Real Madrid CF, Mourinho has already identified the key positions he wants reinforced during the 2026 summer transfer window. As per Sacha Tavolieri, transfer expert, via X, the Portuguese manager has decided to prioritize the signing of a right back, a left back, and a center back as his first major steps toward improving the squad’s competitiveness ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Alongside these defensive reinforcements, José Mourinho is reportedly aiming to strengthen the midfield with a world-class signing: Rodri from Manchester City FC. According to Football Insider, the Portuguese manager considers him the ideal player to rebuild the team around. With his contract running until 2027, the 29-year-old star could reportedly be available for around €60 million or less next summer, a fee Los Blancos may be willing to pay.

Dani Carvajal heads Real Madrid departures for the 2026-27 season

Real Madrid CF appear ready to make radical changes to their squad in an effort to restore the team’s competitiveness. To achieve this, Los Blancos not only need reinforcements in several areas of the pitch, but could also require numerous player departures. With only one match remaining before the end of the season, Dani Carvajal has officially announced his departure from the club at the end of the campaign, bringing an end to a historic spell.

“Real Madrid C.F. and our captain Dani Carvajal have agreed to bring an end to a wonderful chapter as a player of our club at the conclusion of the current season. Real Madrid wishes to express its gratitude and affection to one of the greatest legends of our club... Carvajal is one of the five players in soccer history to have won 6 European Cups and has been part of a team that has experienced one of the brightest periods in our history,” revealed Real Madrid via Instagram.

Alongside Dani Carvajal, both David Alaba and Dani Ceballos also appear set to leave the club, having failed to fully establish as starters in recent seasons. In addition, several players could see their futures decided during preseason, including Raúl Asencio, Franco Mastantuono, Eduardo Camavinga, and Fran García. With multiple areas of the squad still needing reinforcement, Los Blancos may need to oversee even more departures in the coming months.

Amid the victory against Real Betis, FC Barcelona received terrible news, as Fermín López suffered a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot. As a result, the 23-year-old star has now put his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Spain at serious risk.

Amid Barcelona’s dominant 2025-26 season, Hansi Flick found in Fermín López the leader of his attacking midfield, standing out as one of the team’s best players. Because of this, the 23-year-old star appeared to have already secured his place in the 2026 World Cup squad with Spain. However, he suffered a fracture during the team’s recent victory against Real Betis, creating major doubts about his participation in the highly anticipated tournament.

Fermín López has suffered a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot, forcing him to undergo surgery in the coming hours, as confirmed by Barcelona via X, formerly Twitter. According to Miguel Ángel Lara and Mari Carmen Torres, via MARCA, the Spanish star could face a recovery period between six and eight weeks. In this scenario, the 23-year-old star could miss the 2026 World Cup, leaving Spain without one of its biggest stars.

Despite needing surgery, neither Fermín López nor Barcelona have officially ruled out his participation in the World Cup. However, the recovery process following the operation could prevent him from returning in time for training sessions and matches with Spain. For that reason, head coach Luis de la Fuente may consider other high-impact alternatives.

As one of the most productive Spanish players, the possible absence of Fermín López would be a massive blow for Luis de la Fuente. Across 48 matches during the 2025-26 season, he managed to score 13 goals and provide 17 assists. Beyond his statistics, the 23-year-old star emerged as a crucial figure for Barcelona due to his ability to create space for teammates and elevate the collective play.

Fermin Lopez absence and Nico Williams struggles reshape Spain plans

Spain emerged as one of UEFA’s strongest national teams, impressing throughout the World Cup qualifiers. Because of this, La Roja appeared to become as one of the favorites to win the highly anticipated tournament. However, head coach Luis de la Fuente has now suffered a major setback on the left side of the attack, as Nico Williams is coming off a lengthy injury while Fermín López now appears likely to miss the 2026 World Cup.

Without his two main candidates to start on the left wing, head coach Luis de la Fuente could be forced to rely on Dani Olmo or Álex Baena. In addition, Gavi could gain momentum for a return to Spain, as he offers versatility by being able to play both as a winger and attacking midfielder. Nevertheless, the priority could still be recovering the best version of Nico Williams, who is expected to arrive at the World Cup fully recovered from his injury.

Ousmane Dembele picked an injury on Sunday, raising the alarms in both PSG and France national team with the UEFA Champions League and the 2026 World Cup just around the corner.

Ousmane Dembele has the opportunity to make 2026 one of the most memorable years of his career, with both a UEFA Champions League title and a World Cup campaign with one of the tournament’s top contenders on the horizon. However, a fresh injury scare has set alarm bells ringing at Paris Saint-Germain and with the France national team, with the most important weeks of his season now just around the corner.

On Sunday, PSG traveled to Paris FC for the final matchday of Ligue 1, a title the club had already secured four days earlier with a 2-0 win over RC Lens. Despite the championship being wrapped up, coach Luis Enrique opted to field a strong starting lineup that included Dembele.

The concern arose in the 27th minute when Dembele signaled to the bench with discomfort in his left leg and asked to come off. He was replaced by Goncalo Ramos, and rather than taking a seat on the bench to watch the rest of the match alongside his teammates, Dembele headed straight to the locker room, a sight that deepened the worry around his condition, even though he was able to walk off under his own power.

RMC Sport reporter Fabrice Hawkins reported that the substitution was made purely as a precaution following an alert from Dembele, though the French journalist noted it would be a situation to monitor closely in the days ahead.

🥶❌ AIE AIE AIE ! DEMBELE SORT DU TERRAIN À LA 28EME MINUTE ! À SURVEILLER À QUELQUES JOURS DE LA FINALE DE LIGUE DES CHAMPIONS !https://t.co/PlcI1LlqpF pic.twitter.com/rDdOGdZ1sQ

— RMC Sport (@RMCsport) May 17, 2026

What did Luis Enrique say about Dembele?

Losing a Paris derby 2-1 after squandering the lead was hardly the ideal end to the Ligue 1 season for Luis Enrique, but the greater concern was the potential loss of a player he has considered the best in the world following Dembele’s 2025 Ballon d’Or victory. Stars including Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes and William Pacho had already been absent from Sunday’s game through injury, and a Dembele setback would only add to the headaches heading into the business end of the season.

When asked about his star forward in the post-match press conference, Luis Enrique sought to calm the situation: “Nothing to say about Ousmane; we will have to wait until tomorrow (Monday) to know exactly what it is, but I think it’s just fatigue. What we are saying today is only speculation, but I don’t think it’s complicated, and there are still two weeks left (before the Champions League final).”

Dembele and the decisive weeks ahead

Winning the UEFA Champions League and the World Cup in the same calendar year has become one of the rarest feats in modern soccer, with Raphael Varane’s double with Real Madrid and France in 2018 serving as the most recent high-profile example. As the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, Dembele is perfectly positioned to join that exclusive company, though the latest injury scare has tightened an already demanding timeline.

The Champions League final against Arsenal in Budapest is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, less than two weeks away, while France open their World Cup campaign against Senegal on June 16. Dembele has already been confirmed in Didier Deschamps’ squad for the tournament, but with such high-stakes matches stacked so closely together, the risk of a further setback in the lead-up to either game will be weighing heavily on both PSG and the French national team.

Antoine Griezmann stated that he "made a mistake" the moment he left Atletico Madrid to join Lionel Messi's Barcelona in 2019.

Antoine Griezmann bid farewell to the Atletico Madrid faithful in his final home appearance at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday against Girona. In an emotional scene in front of a packed stadium, the French legend admitted that leaving the Colchoneros to join Lionel Messi‘s Barcelona had been “a mistake.”

Regarded at the time as one of the best players in the world and having already signed a contract extension, Griezmann completed a move to Barcelona in 2019 for €120 million. However, the anticipated partnership with Messi never truly clicked, and his two seasons at the club yielded only a Copa del Rey title in 2020-21, with disappointment in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

Taking the microphone and addressing the supporters from the center of the pitch in tears, Griezmann delivered a farewell speech that left no one unmoved: “First, thank you all for staying. This is incredible. Second, I know many forgave me, and some still haven’t: I ask for your forgiveness again. I didn’t realize the affection I had here; I was very young and, well, I made a mistake. I re-evaluated things and we did everything we could to come back and enjoy being here again.”

Despite more than a decade at the club, La Liga and the Champions League remain the two major honors that eluded Griezmann at Atletico. The irony is not lost on anyone that the Colchoneros‘ last La Liga title came in the 2020-21 season, the very campaign in which Griezmann was away in Barcelona.

He reflected on that unfulfilled chapter with characteristic honesty, while making clear that the supporters’ love has meant everything to him. “I haven’t been able to bring a La Liga title or a Champions League, but this affection is worth more to me. I will carry it with me for the rest of my life. Now, yes, I’m finishing up. Fathers, mothers, uncles, aunts, thank you very much for bringing the kids here, to teach them that Atleti is the best thing in the world,” he stated.

At Barcelona, Griezmann posted 35 goals and 17 assists across 102 appearances, a figure that stands in stark contrast to his legacy at Atletico, where he made 500 appearances, scored 212 goals as the club’s all-time leading scorer, and reached the milestone of 100 assists with his contribution against Girona on Sunday. Now 35, Griezmann will move on to MLS to continue his playing career.

Griezmann’s oath after Orlando City tenure

With one La Liga game remaining against Villarreal, Griezmann’s next chapter will take him to the East Coast to join Orlando City, where he will inevitably cross paths with Messi once more in a potential Florida Derby against Inter Miami. But once his days as a player are behind him, his commitment to Atletico remains unshaken.

Speaking in the press room following his on-field farewell, Griezmann made a heartfelt promise about his future: “When I finish in Orlando, I’m going to return here. To Madrid, to the club, and to win trophies from another side (of the game). Hopefully, someone better than me comes in and gives us the Champions League.“

After a great collective play, Lionel Messi scored the opening goal for Inter Miami in the MLS game against the Portland Timbers.

Inter Miami hosted the Portland Timbers on Sunday at Nu Stadium looking to climb the MLS Eastern Conference standings. Lionel Messi spearheaded the attack for the Herons, providing the game’s opening breakthrough before delivering an assist to push the advantage to 2-0, securing the historic first victory at the club’s new home.

Sunday’s clash marked Inter Miami’s fifth match at Nu Stadium since its grand opening, with the Herons previously enduring a frustrating stretch of three draws and a loss at the new venue. After sustained attacking pressure turned Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis into the player of the match early with a string of brilliant saves, the Herons finally carved open the Portland defense through the middle of the pitch to finally break the negative streak.

In the 31st minute, Messi controlled a pass from Telasco Segovia and quickly found Luis Suarez, who immediately linked back up with the Venezuelan midfielder. Segovia then delivered a spectacular backheel pass that left Messi one-on-one with the keeper, allowing the Argentine star to slot it home and open the scoring for the hosts.

Messi wasn’t finished impacting the scoreboard, later turning playmaker to set up German Berterame for Inter Miami’s second goal. In the 42nd minute, Messi executed a perfect give-and-go with Suarez before dancing past Cole Bassett and Diego Chara inside the box. After freezing the defenders, the Argentine slipped a pass across the face of the goal for Berterame to tap home first-time, comfortably doubling the Herons’ lead against the Timbers before the break.

Those numbers bring Messi’s season totals to 13 goals and 5 assists across 15 matches. Most notably, the superstar has racked up four goals and four assists over his last four outings, solidifying his status as the frontrunner for the MLS Player of the Month award for May.

Messi directly involved in over half of Inter Miami’s MLS goals

Messi has undoubtedly been Inter Miami’s talisman since his arrival, serving as both the team’s primary finisher and the creative engine behind their build-up play. However, during the 2026 MLS campaign, his influence has reached a point where the Herons are heavily reliant on what the Argentine legend can produce on any given night.

Through 14 matches, Inter Miami has found the back of the net 33 times, with Messi directly involved in 18 of those tallies by racking up 13 goals and five assists. While nine other players have cracked the scoresheet for Miami this season, Berterame is the next closest with just five goals, highlighting the team’s extreme dependence on their superstar captain.

Less than a month before the break for the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi received a squad blow with Inter Miami confirming Tadeo Allende's surgery in a latest injury update.

Lionel Messi remains the undeniable centerpiece of an Inter Miami side that has struggled to recapture its dominant form from the 2025 season. In yet another setback for the Argentine maestro, the Herons confirmed in a recent injury update that forward Tadeo Allende has undergone knee surgery, delivering another blow to the squad’s depth.

Inter Miami released an official statement regarding Allende’s status on Sunday ahead of their clash with the Portland Timbers: “Forward Tadeo Allende has successfully undergone an arthroscopy on his right knee to address the discomfort he had been experiencing in recent weeks.“

The forward had already missed the team’s last two MLS matches against FC Cincinnati and Toronto FC before traveling to Spain to evaluate his options. “The procedure was carried out in Barcelona by Dr. Cugat and his team at Instituto Cugat, in coordination with the Club’s medical staff,” the statement added.

After finishing as the team’s second-highest goalscorer behind Messi last season, Allende earned a permanent $5 million transfer from Celta Vigo. However, the attacker arrived in South Florida without a proper preseason under his belt, and persistent fitness issues have plagued his on-field production ever since.

Through the early stretch of the 2026 campaign, Allende has appeared in 11 matches for Inter Miami but has logged 90 minutes just four times, failing to record a single goal or assist. Compared to his breakout impact last year, his absence strips Inter Miami of a crucial weapon in their attacking rotation.

When will Tadeo Allende return?

Inter Miami officials have been cautious regarding Allende’s long-term outlook, opting not to disclose the exact nature of the structural issue inside his right knee. “In the coming days, the player will begin the corresponding recovery process. His progress will determine the timeline for his return to the pitch,” the club concluded.

While no official timetable has been established, the reality of an arthroscopic procedure leaves a wide range of possibilities for his recovery. If the surgery was a minor cleanup, Messi could have his strike partner back when the MLS season resumes in late July following the 2026 World Cup break, though Allende is already ruled out for next week’s game against the Philadelphia Union.

The worst-case scenario would be if the arthroscopy required a meniscus stitch or major cartilage repair. While that remains unlikely, such a procedure would effectively sideline him for the remainder of the year and push his return to the 2027 season. In the meantime, Messi will have to make do without an attacker whose direct runs made him one of his favorite targets last season.

Alessandro Bastoni appeared to be Barcelona’s ideal defensive signing. However, the Italian now seems to be moving away from Los Blaugranas, as Inter Milan are reportedly unwilling to sell him. Alongside this, head coach Hansi Flick is supposedly unconvinced about the potential transfer.

Despite Barcelona being crowned 2025-26 LaLiga champions, they have still suffered from major defensive issues. In search of greater solidity for next season, Alessandro Bastoni had emerged as the ideal solution to their problems. However, the Italian defender now appears to be moving away from Los Blaugranas, as Inter Milan are unwilling to sanction his sale. Alongside this, Hansi Flick supposedly has doubts about how well he would fit into the team.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, negotiations between Los Blaugranas and the Nerazzurri have cooled significantly in recent weeks due to a major gap in valuation. The Italian side reportedly values his departure at around €60 million (around $70 million), while the Spanish side are aiming for a deal well below that figure. In addition, Bastoni now appears close to renewing his contract, seemingly reconsidering the possibility of leaving the club.

Coupled with his high transfer price, head coach Hansi Flick is reportedly not fully convinced that Bastoni is the ideal solution for Barcelona’s defense. The German manager appears to have growing doubts about whether the Italian defender truly fits the team stylistically, as the technical characteristics that have allowed him to thrive at Inter Milan differ considerably from those required at Barcelona, according to Matteo Moretto, via X, formerly Twitter.

Alessandro Bastoni became one of the best defenders in the world while thriving in a three-man defensive system. Because of this structure, he usually benefits from greater support in defensive coverages and when dealing with individual mistakes. For that reason, he could struggle adapting to a two-center-back system, as he could have fewer defensive supports and could be left exposed by Barcelona’s aggressive high press.

Gerard Martin and Álvaro Cortes may become key for Barcelona plans

Throughout the season, Barcelona have been forced to make adjustments in their defensive line, as the departure of Iñigo Martínez left the team without a natural left-sided center back. In response, head coach Hansi Flick made a risky decision by trusting Gerard Martín in a defensive role. As a result, the team gained far more consistency and improved ball progression, with the youngster becoming a starter alongside Pau Cubarsí while also offering the versatility.

After proving his differential talent, Gerard Martín now appears set to become the team’s starting left-sided defender alongside Pau Cubarsí, who could rotate with Eric García or Jules Koundé. As a homegrown player, the 23-year-old star would represent an ideal solution for the club, which could now consider allowing Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen to leave.

Alongside Gerard, Álvaro Cortés could also emerge as a backup solution after impressing during his debut against Deportivo Alavés. In addition, Hansi Flick has reportedly decided to include him in Barcelona’s 2026-27 preseason, where he will fight for a permanent place in the first team, according to Mundo Deportivo. With this in mind, Los Blaugranas may once again find the solution to their defensive problems within La Masia.

Following the dismissals of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, Chelsea have appointed Xabi Alonso as their new head coach for the 2026–27 season. As part of the terms of his appointment, the Spaniard has reportedly helped reshape the team’s transfer strategy, boosting the squad’s competitiveness.

Chelsea FC have failed to establish as one of the Premier League’s elite teams, leading to the dismissals of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. With a squad filled with young and promising talent, they have now found their new project leader in head coach Xabi Alonso, aiming to restore competitiveness for the 2026-27 season. Alongside this, the Spanish manager has reportedly adjusted the Blues’ transfer strategy.

According to Mark Ogden and Alex Kirkland, via ESPN, the Blues have agreed to adjust their transfer strategy, shifting from targeting only young prospects to also pursuing experienced players due to a request from Xabi. With key areas of the squad still needing reinforcement, the Spanish coach is aiming to bring in proven players who can guide and elevate the younger talents, a model he previously implemented successfully at Bayer Leverkusen.

After backing Xabi Alonso requests, he arrives with significant authority in the dressing room, something he did not fully have at Real Madrid. Not only will he be able to impose a clear playing style, but he will also have greater control over which players fit into his system. Among all the areas that need reinforcement, the defense is expected to undergo major changes, as Tosin Adarabioyo, Mamadou Sarr, and Trevoh Chalobah have raised serious doubts.

Despite these reported major adjustments, Chelsea will not alter their sporting structure, meaning the five sporting directors will remain in place. However, Xabi Alonso will still carry significant influence, as he is expected to have the final say on incoming and outgoing transfers, similar to what Luis Enrique implemented at Paris Saint-Germain. Even so, the Blues still need to finalize their squad adjustments ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Xabi Alonso has generational talents at Chelsea to build project

Although Chelsea have not managed to consistently shine in recent seasons, they have succeeded in signing generational-level talent. Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Cole Palmer, and Estêvão stand out as the team’s most decisive players, establishing among the best players in the world. With this in mind, Xabi Alonso’s task becomes more specific: To recruit players who complement these stars and to establish a clear and coherent playing identity.

Not only will signing consolidated players be key for the Blues, but also offloading players who have not fully met expectations. Within that group, Tosin Adarabioyo, Mamadou Sarr, Trevoh Chalobah, Dário Essugo, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Alejandro Garnacho could be among those considered. Alongside them, several other players may see their futures decided during the 2026 preseason, creating both salary space and squad room for more specific, system-fit additions.

Following these squad adjustments, Xabi Alonso could shape the team to fit his own playing style, although the impact may not be immediate—similar to how even Pep Guardiola did not achieve instant success in his first season at Manchester City. Nevertheless, Chelsea’s many generational talents could step up if a more cohesive and competitive structure is established, something Enzo Maresca appeared to be building before his dismissal.

Inter Miami are clashing with the Portland Timbers in the MLS, with all eyes on Lionel Messi to feature in the game.

Inter Miami host the Portland Timbers on Sunday, May 17, at Nu Stadium in the 2026 MLS regular season. With the Herons looking to climb further up the Eastern Conference standings, the biggest question heading into the match is whether Lionel Messi will be in the lineup.

Messi has been included in the starting lineup against the Timbers. The Argentine arrives in good form after scoring a brace and adding an assist in a 5-3 road win over FC Cincinnati, a performance that earned him a spot in the MLS Team of the Matchday 13 and further underlines his sharp form heading into the summer.

Through 12 MLS appearances this season, Messi has scored 11 goals and registered four assists. His only absence came against Charlotte FC back in March, and since returning he has played every available minute, accumulating 1,260 minutes across all competitions and arriving at the World Cup in peak condition.

Inter Miami looking to break their troubling home record

One of the most striking anomalies of Inter Miami’s 2026 campaign has been the stark contrast between their form on the road and at home. Away from Nu Stadium, the Herons are the top team in the league with 22 points from nine games, yet at home they rank among the worst sides in MLS, picking up just three points from four matches, level with the Philadelphia Union.

That split has Inter Miami sitting sixth in the overall MLS standings with 25 points from 13 games. Back on home soil on Sunday, the Herons will be desperate to finally secure a second win at Nu Stadium, having not claimed all three points there since the venue’s inaugural game against Austin FC on April 4.

Confirmed lineups for Inter Miami and Portland Timbers

Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, Micael, Sergio Reguilon; Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, German Berterame.
Head coach Guillermo Hoyos.

Portland Timbers’ confirmed lineup (4-3-3): James Pantemis; Brandon Bye, Finn Surman, Kamal Miller, Jimer Fory; Cole Bassett, David Pereira Da Costa, Diego Chara; Kristoffer Velde, Kevin Kelsy, Alexander Aravena.
Head coach: Phil Neville.

Bruno Fernandes has remained Manchester United’s undisputed leader, once again proving decisive in the team’s most recent victory. After providing an assist, the Portuguese midfielder equaled a Premier League assist record previously held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

Bruno Fernandes has been Manchester United’s most consistent player over the past six years. Not only has he contributed in front of goal, but also creatively, leading the team season after season. The Portuguese star has even managed to elevate his game with the arrival of head coach Michael Carrick, enjoying greater freedom on the pitch. Following this, he has equaled a Premier League assist record previously held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

In Manchester United’s recent victory over Nottingham Forest, Bruno Fernandes emerged as one of the team’s best players, providing an assist for Bryan Mbeumo’s goal. Following this, he reached 20 assists in the 2025–26 season, emerging as the team’s most impacful player. Moreover, he equaled the record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne for the highest number of assists in a single Premier League season.

Although his role has been widely debated in the Premier League, Bruno is already a Manchester United great. With 108 assists, he is now the fourth-highest assister in the club’s history, surpassing Paul Scholes, Marcus Rashford, and Bobby Charlton. In addition, the Portuguese star has scored 108 goals, making it clear that he is already a club legend, standing out in one of the most unstable eras in the team’s history.

Unlike Thierry Henry or Kevin De Bruyne, Bruno Fernandes has not yet managed to win the Premier League, something that appears to affect his legacy in the eyes of supporters. However, he arrived at a Manchester United side in the midst of a results crisis, going through numerous defeats that have prevented them from competing. Even so, the 31-year-old star has managed to shine with his talent, making his impact all the more significant compared to others.

Bruno Fernandes aims to stay at Manchester United with Carrick

Despite being one of Manchester United’s best players, Bruno Fernandes was not guaranteed anything, as he reportedly had a release clause valid for the summer of 2026. Given the inconsistencies in the sporting project, he appeared open to leaving the club in search of a more competitive and attractive project. Nevertheless, the Portuguese midfielder now seems set to remain with the Red Devils following recent adjustments to the project.

With Michael Carrick set to remain as permanent head coach, the Red Devils have managed to consolidate their sporting project. Not only do they now have a defined playing style, but they have also secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League. With this, Bruno appears to be on track to get what he wants: A winning project, making his continuity more likely to become a reality.

Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Manchester United appear set to make strong additions to the squad, particularly in midfield. With several areas needing reinforcement, they seem willing to make multimillion-pound investments, as they must compete in the UEFA Champions League, with Bruno Fernandes remaining the central axis of the team, as he is still in top form.

After being crowned the 2025-26 LaLiga champion, Robert Lewandowski announced his departure from Barcelona, leaving behind a historic legacy. In light of this, Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter expressed interest in the Polish forward for the 2026-27 season.

Robert Lewandowski has managed to become one of the best players of Barcelona’s recent era. Despite arriving as a veteran, the Polish striker succeeded in leaving a huge legacy at the club, one that will come to an end after the 2025–26 season. Amid this situation, he has been strongly linked with MLS, something that Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter decided to acknowledge to Bolavip their interest on signing the Polish veteran.

After the latest defeat against Deportivo Alaves, Lewandowski announced on his social media his departure as free-agent from Barcelona, while leaving clear his love to Catalonia. “After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on. I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. 4 seasons, 3 championships. I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth.”

With his announcement, Gregg Berhalter revealed to Bolavip that Chicago Fire are interested on Robert Lewandowski’s arrival. “I think it’s no secret that we’ve been in communication with Robert. We think he’s a fantastic player. We think that they would be a great, a top pairing in this league. So you never know. I think there’s a lot still to be done, but we admire Robert, and we think he’s a fantastic player, one of the best strikers ever.”

Despite not coming off his best season, Lewandowski has still managed to remain one of Barcelona’s top scorers, with 18 goals in 44 matches. In addition, the Polish striker has shown outstanding vision and link-up play, making him crucial for collective game, boosting Chicago Fire to become one of the top teams in MLS once again. Nevertheless, they will not have an easy task to complete his signing, as he has a staggering offer from the Saudi Pro League.

Robert Lewandowski may boost Hugo Cuypers at Chicago Fire

Hugo Cuypers has emerged as one of the best players in MLS, leading the league in goals scored by one goal over Lionel Messi. As a result, fans have serious doubts about whether paying Robert Lewandowski a multi-million-dollar salary is worth it, since the Belgian striker is in top form and that Designated Player slot could be used to strengthen other areas of the team. However, the veteran striker could indeed boost the 29-year-old star on the field.

Unlike other strikers, Lewandowski impacts the game beyond just his goals, as he serves as a focal point in the team’s collective play. The Polish striker has managed to create space for Raphinha and Lamine Yamal on the wings, and even for Fermín López, due to his exceptional vision and understanding of the game. Because of this, Cuypers could find an excellent partner in attack, boosting the offensive production of both players.

Far from being an obstacle for Cuypers, Robert Lewandowski would help the Belgian striker find more space inside the box, as his mere presence draws multiple defenders, just as it happens at Barcelona. Nevertheless, head coach Gregg Berhalter faces the difficult task of building a partnership between both forwards, aiming to maximize the talent of each player while potentially changing the tactical system and the responsibilities of several players on the field.

Al Hilal defeated Neom and extended the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title race until Tuesday, when Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr could still clinch the championship.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr had a historic opportunity this Saturday to win two titles in a single day. In addition to playing the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka, they also had the chance to secure the Saudi Pro League crown — something that ultimately did not happen because of Al Hilal’s victory over Neom.

Al Nassr’s international run forced them to play their Matchday 33 fixture early, a couple of weeks ago against Al Shabab. That victory gave them a five-point lead over their closest challengers, Al Hilal. As a result, Karim Benzema’s team entered Saturday needing a win to take the title race into the final round of the season.

And they delivered. Simone Inzaghi’s side earned a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Ruben Neves from the penalty spot and Sultan Mandash. With the win, Al Hilal cut the gap at the top of the Saudi Pro League standings to two points, keeping their title hopes alive heading into Tuesday.

Al Nassr remain atop the Saudi Pro League standings with 83 points, meaning they still control their own destiny in the title race. However, any slip-up next week could allow Al Hilal to snatch the trophy away from them.

What’s next for Al Nassr and Al Hilal?

The 2025-26 Saudi Pro League will conclude next Thursday with Matchday 34, the final round of the season. Final standings will determine relegation, qualification for continental competitions, and, of course, the league title.

League leaders Al Nassr will face Damac in a match with major implications at both ends of the table. While Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates will be chasing the win needed to secure the trophy, their opponents will be fighting to avoid relegation. Right now, they sit just two points above the drop zone, currently occupied by Al Riyadh.

Al Hilal, meanwhile, appear to face a tougher challenge on paper. Instead of meeting a team near the bottom of the standings, they will take on a side that has enjoyed a more stable season. Al Fayha currently sit 11th in the table, although having nothing left to play for in the final matchday could affect their intensity.

Possible scenarios for the Saudi Pro League title race

All Matchday 34 games in the Saudi Pro League will kick off simultaneously on Tuesday to prevent teams from gaining an advantage by knowing other results beforehand and adjusting their strategy accordingly.

For Al Hilal, the mission is clear. Sitting two points behind leaders Al Nassr, their only chance of overtaking them is by defeating Al Fayha. If Karim Benzema and his teammates fail to win their own match, they will have no chance of lifting the trophy.

Al Nassr, meanwhile, have a wider range of possibilities in front of them. A victory would secure the Saudi Pro League title regardless of any other result. But if they fail to win, they will need to keep a close eye on what happens elsewhere.

If Al Nassr draw or lose against Damac and Al Hilal fail to win, Cristiano Ronaldo would still lift the trophy. If Al Nassr lose and Al Hilal win, Benzema would claim the league title instead. However, if Al Nassr draw and Al Hilal win, both teams would finish level on points. In that case, the tiebreaker would come down to head-to-head results during the season, where Al Hilal hold the advantage after winning one meeting and drawing the other.

Al Nassr will win the Saudi Pro League if they defeat Damac as Cristiano Ronaldo may add a new title.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s only focus at this stage is breaking records. The forward was set to add another trophy to the list of titles he has won with different clubs, but Bento’s own goal in the 98th minute against Al Hilal delayed Al Nassr’s Saudi Pro League celebration and the prize money that comes with it.

The exact prize for the Saudi Pro League champion has not been made public. The most recently disclosed figure came in 2023, when Al Ittihad earned SR5 million, which would be about $1.33 million if that amount stayed the same. Al Nassr’s current two-point lead means a win over Damac would seal the title.

If Al Hilal do not beat Al Fayha, they could also be crowned champions. However, if Al Nassr fail to win, everything will depend on Al Hilal. A win would give them the title even if the teams finish level on points, since the head-to-head tiebreaker favors them after their 3-1 win in the first meeting and the recent draw.

Al Nassr’s lost final

Saturday did not bring a Saudi Pro League title for Al Nassr. But that was not their only chance to lift a trophy, as they also faced Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final in Riyadh.

Even after the disappointment in their most recent match last Tuesday, they still had a chance to make up for it in front of their fans with a winnable final, but that did not happen.

Al Nassr had been perfect throughout their continental run before falling in the worst possible match. Gamba Osaka took a first-half lead and never looked back, going on to win the title 1-0 and surprising most observers.

Ronaldo’s numbers

Ronaldo has continued to score as his team closes in on its first titles in some time, even after his arrival was expected to deliver them sooner. He has played 29 Saudi Pro League matches and scored 26 goals, one King Cup match without scoring, four AFC Champions League Two matches with one goal, and two Saudi Super Cup matches with one goal. That leaves him on 36 matches and 28 goals across those competitions.

Cristiano Ronaldo has returned from injury and is fit to play for Al Nassr.

Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 41 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, when they’ll be hosting Damac FC for the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League at Al Awwal Park, needing a win to secure the title. The Portuguese legend heads to the match after a 1-0 defeat against Japanese side Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final.

Regarding the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Selecao will play two friendlies on home soil: the first against Chile on June 6 and the second against Nigeria on June 10.

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 28 goals and provided 5 assists in 36 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 971 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.

Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule

After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule.

From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final.

With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.

With the 2026 MLS season already underway, questions are being raised about when Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi will play his next game.

Lionel Messi is still making history at 38 years old, remaining a cornerstone and captain for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season now underway, fans are wondering when they’ll see the forward back in action.

Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, when the Herons will be hosting Philadelphia Union in the MLS at the Nu Stadium. The Argentine legend enters the fixture after participating in the two goals of the 2-0 win over the Portland Timbers with a goal and an assist.

As for international duty with Argentina national team, Lionel Messi is set to return to action during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Albiceleste will be facing Honduras on June 6th, and Iceland on June 9, leaving Messi and company just one week to regroup before their tournament opener against Algeria on the 16th.

The 2026 MLS campaign has begun for Messi, who has featured in 15 official matches so far across all competitions, scoring 13 goals with 5 assist registered thus far. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title

The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time.

Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas.

The Argentina FA has announced that the national team will base itself in Kansas City during the tournament, though training facilities have yet to be confirmed. Expected to be his final World Cup appearance, Messi will have a chance to add to his record haul with a squad coached by Lionel Scaloni that remains one of the strongest in international soccer after winning the last World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles.