Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has provided an injury update ahead of the Carabao Cup fourth-round clash against Wolves on October 29, 2025. Following Chelsea’s surprising 2-1 defeat to Sunderland at Stamford Bridge, as reported by Softfootball, the Blues are keen to bounce back in the knockout competition. Squad rotation and careful player management will be key as Maresca looks to balance competitiveness with player fitness.

Maresca offered insights on João Pedro in a post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account, stressing the importance of full fitness for his forward line:

The physical part is important. When you are not 100%, it is difficult to compete.

He also highlighted Pedro’s creative role:

João’s going to score goals and give us assists. He is not going to score 20 goals a year. He’s a different striker profile.

Pedro is expected to feature in some capacity, though minutes may be managed carefully given the busy fixture schedule.

Maresca on João Pedro: “The physical part is important. When you are not 100%, it is difficult to compete”.

“João’s going to score goals and give us assists. He is not going to score 20 goals a year. He's a different striker profile”. pic.twitter.com/gEmPKD04QJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2025

As reported by Softfootball, Liam Delap, who Maresca confirmed is out against Sunderland but nearing return for the Cup clash, is set for his return after a two-month hamstring injury. Maresca confirmed:

He’s back, he’s available for tomorrow. But 90 minutes, not yet. He’s been out for months and has to be managed well now.

Delap trained fully on October 27 and is likely to come off the bench, while Marc Guiu is expected to start up front.

Maresca also suggested that Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo, and João Pedro could be rested to protect them for upcoming matches. Wolves, under Vítor Pereira, provide a challenging home test, with Chelsea needing to adapt quickly and execute efficiently to progress to the last eight. It’s worth noting that careful rotation and squad depth could be decisive in this knockout encounter.

Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid’s captain and reliable right-back, had surgery on his right knee today. The operation was an arthroscopy, done by Dr Manuel Leyes with the club’s medical team watching closely, as posted on the club’s official X account. The goal was to remove some loose material in the joint. Carvajal got hurt during Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Barcelona, as reported by Softfootball.

As Softfootball previously reported, Carvajal’s injury was diagnosed after post-match tests revealed a loose body in the same knee where he suffered a serious ACL and LCL rupture in October 2024. That earlier setback sidelined him for nearly a full season, making this latest issue another unfortunate blow in what has been a turbulent two years for the veteran defender.

Latest Carvajal medical report.
https://t.co/sak8pxEqii pic.twitter.com/hYMOyEsXwf

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) October 28, 2025

Now, Real Madrid has to rethink things at right-back. Fede Valverde stepped in during El Clásico, and he might keep that spot for a while. Trent Alexander-Arnold, recently back from injury, is another option. Losing Carvajal hurts, especially with big La Liga matches and Champions League games on the horizon.

Everyone is hoping he bounces back strong. Carvajal brings experience, leadership, and calm at the back—a captain in every sense. His teammates will feel the gap. For now, Madrid must navigate the coming weeks without him. Slowly but surely, though, all eyes will be on his recovery. If all goes well, he will be back stronger, sharper, and ready to lead the defense again.

Alejandro Garnacho has opened up about the reasons behind his move to Chelsea, explaining how a personal video call with manager Enzo Maresca played a major role in his decision. The Argentine winger completed a £40 million transfer from Manchester United in August 2025, a move reported by Softfootball.

Garnacho revealed, in a post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account, that Chelsea’s vision under Maresca was what ultimately convinced him to make the switch. He said:

When I spoke with the club and Maresca, it’s important also the style of play we have. He explained a lot to me in a video call with him.

That conversation gave him clarity on the tactical system Maresca wants to build, one that suits creative, fearless wingers capable of taking on defenders in one-on-one duels. It’s a style that has already been evident in recent games, including Chelsea’s defeat to Sunderland, where the Argentine scored his first Chelsea goal, as reported by Softfootball.

For Garnacho, joining Chelsea represents more than just a change of clubs, as it is a leap in his development. He said, describing the Blues as the best team in the world after watching their Club World Cup triumph:

It’s a big chance to improve as a player in a team like Chelsea.

He praised the club’s winning mentality, the competition for places, and the high standards that now define life at Stamford Bridge.

Garnacho on why he joined Chelsea: “When I spoke with the club and Maresca, it’s important also the style of play we have. He explained a lot to me in a video call with him”.

“It’s a big chance to improve as a player in a team like Chelsea”, told Sports Illustrated. pic.twitter.com/OciJaqq2Pg

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2025

The winger also admitted that a familiar face helped ease the transition. He said:

I spoke to Enzo Fernández during the summer… he had been asking, ‘When are you coming?’

Since arriving at Cobham, Garnacho has impressed staff with his work ethic and willingness to adapt. Sources close to the club say Maresca has already praised his attitude and commitment in training. The 20-year-old appears determined to repay the faith shown in him not just by Maresca, but by a club that believes he can become one of the Premier League’s most exciting wide players

Cologne take on Bayern Munich this Wednesday night at the RheinEnergieStadion, and to be honest, it’s a mountain to climb. The hosts have not beaten Bayern in over a decade, and with the visitors flying under Vincent Kompany, it’s looking like another long evening for the Billy Goats. Still, football’s beauty lies in surprises, and Cologne will cling to that hope.

Bayern, who recently beat Club Brugge 4–0 in the Champions League and edged Monchengladbach’s ten men in a comfortable 3–0 win, as reported by Softfootball, come into this with 16 straight wins across all competitions. They are not just winning; they are steamrolling. Kompany’s system looks balanced, ruthless, and, frankly, terrifying to play against.

For Cologne, it’s been rough lately. They have picked up only four points from their last five Bundesliga games and are still recovering from that gut-wrenching 96th-minute loss at Dortmund. No shots on target, no joy, no luck. And now Bayern. That’s football’s cruel sense of humour.

Team News

Cologne’s injury list remains long. Jan Thielmann, Luca Kilian (ACL), Rav van den Berg, and Timo Hübers are all sidelined, while Cenk Özkacar faces a late fitness test. Kilian’s absence in particular leaves them short of defensive options.

For Bayern, Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies remain out, but Kompany confirmed several key returns in his pre-match press conference that was shared on the club’s official X account:

Things are looking good. Raphaël Guerreiro is back to full fitness, with Josip Stanišić and Serge Gnabry also back. The squad is where it needs to be going into the next three games.

Sporting Director Christoph Freund added that young goalkeeper Jonas Urbíg will start, praising his development:

He’s already at a very high level at a young age… He’s on the perfect path right now.

Possible Lineups

Cologne (3-4-2-1): Schwabe; Ozkacar, Martel, Heintz; Lund, Huseinbasic, Johannesson, Sebulonsen; El Mala, Kaminski; Bulter.

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1): Urbig; Bischof, Kim, Upamecano, Boey; Goretzka, Kimmich; Diaz, Gnabry, Olise; Jackson.

Softfootball’s Prediction

Kompany knows the dangers Cologne pose on the counter. He warned:

They are very alert and quick to close down space… incredibly dangerous on the break.

𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛 𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗘! Vincent Kompany and Christoph Freund's press conference ahead of our DFB Pokal match against 1. FC Köln.

https://t.co/I5A7j9wtuW pic.twitter.com/FKNKm4KKE3

— FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) October 28, 2025

Still, Bayern’s depth and sharpness make them heavy favourites. Freund echoed that ambition:

Everyone wants to come back to Berlin — but we know we must earn it first.

Cologne will fight with spirit, but Bayern’s rhythm and quality should tell. Expect the visitors to control possession and punish defensive lapses late on.

Prediction: Cologne 0–3 Bayern Munich

Arsenal face Brighton at the Emirates on Tuesday night in the Carabao Cup fourth round, and it’s coming at a tricky time for Mikel Arteta’s side. The Gunners are unbeaten in ten matches and flying high in the Premier League, but the squad’s looking thinner than he’d like right now.

Their recent 1–0 win over Crystal Palace, which Softfootball described as a grind that champions find a way to win, summed up their character this season. Arsenal looked composed, even with several key absentees. Brighton, though, come into this tie licking their wounds after a 4–2 defeat at Old Trafford in a night where Softfootball highlighted Bruno Fernandes’ class in his 300th United appearance.

Team News

Arsenal’s injury list keeps growing. Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Jesus are all out with mostly knee or ligament issues, and Jurriën Timber might not make it either. Truth be told, that’s a big blow for Arteta, but he’s managed worse. His team have kept five clean sheets in a row, showing just how organised they have become.

Expect Kepa Arrizabalaga to stay in goal behind Ben White, Christian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie, and 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. Norgaard will anchor midfield with Eze and Merino. Up front, Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, and Viktor Gyökeres should lead the attack.

Brighton aren’t in perfect shape either. Adam Webster, Solly March, and Jack Hinshelwood are long-term absentees, while doubts remain over Kaoru Mitoma, Joel Veltman, and Diego Gómez. Fabian Hurzeler might stick with Simon Adingra, Georginio Rutter, and Danny Welbeck, who’s always up for a big night in North London.

Possible Lineups

Arsenal (4-3-3): Kepa; White, Mosquera, Hincapie, Lewis-Skelly; Eze, Norgaard, Merino; Nwaneri, Gyokeres, Trossard.
Brighton (4-2-3-1): Steele; Wieffer, Dunk, Boscagli, De Cuyper; Milner, Ayari; Gomez, Rutter, Minteh; Welbeck.

Arsenal, via their official X account, posted Eberechi Eze’s first Premier League goal for Arsenal, a stunning volley against his former club Crystal Palace which marked a significant moment in Arsenal’s 1-0 victory, extending their unbeaten run to seven matches and securing their 700th Premier League win.

Watch the video below:

Ebere Eze's first Premier League goal for The Arsenal: The Director's Cut pic.twitter.com/ZOJDYclWnZ

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 27, 2025

Softfootball’s Prediction

There’s a sense this could go either way. Brighton have hit some wild form in the cup—those back-to-back 6–0 wins show their depth—but Arsenal at home are a different animal. They have got structure, patience, and that bit of swagger you only get from an unbeaten run.

Prediction: Arsenal 2–1 Brighton.

Few would have imagined Sunderland AFC being here today. After back-to-back relegations in 2017 and 2018, the club’s fall from grace felt endless. Fast-forward to October 2025, and the Black Cats are suddenly one of the Premier League’s brightest stories. Their recent 2–1 triumph over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which was reported by Softfootball, wasn’t just a win; it was a statement that Sunderland are no longer here to make up the numbers.

Speaking after that game, as reported by Softffoball, defender Chemsdine Talbi said they knew they could do the job, and they showed it. That quiet confidence says everything about this new Sunderland: fearless, well-drilled, and united under head coach Regis Le Bris.

Their story has been building quietly. Promotion from League One came in 2022 under Alex Neil, but things really changed when Le Bris arrived in 2024. He brought a clear identity of high pressing, bold football, and faith in young players. In May 2025, that belief paid off when Sunderland edged Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, sealing their long-awaited return to the top flight.

Now, they are not just surviving; they are competing. As of October 28, 2025, Sunderland sits 4th in the Premier League table, level on 17 points with Tottenham and just behind Bournemouth on goal difference. They have won five, drawn two, and lost only twice in nine matches, scoring 11 and conceding 7.

Veterans like Granit Xhaka and Reinildo Mandava have given balance to a side built around fearless youth. Sunderland, via their official X account, posted a feature on Reinildo Mandava praising teammate Granit Xhaka, highlighting an unexpected cultural and professional synergy on the pitch.

Reinildo: 'Granit has so much quality, not only on the pitch but off it. In training, he pushes us, he shares his experience – that’s very special. I’m very proud to play with him.' pic.twitter.com/Av5sqr2eMX

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) October 27, 2025

Xhaka, ever the leader, already has three assists to his name. Wilson Isidor has scored four times, while Talibi and Daniel Ballard have chipped in crucial goals. Nordi Mukiele has been rock solid at the back, and young keeper Robin Roefs keeps growing in confidence every week.

What’s happening at Sunderland feels genuine and not a lucky streak or a short-term miracle. It’s eight years of hard work, smart recruitment, and patient rebuilding finally paying off. The Stadium of Light feels alive again, louder, prouder, and full of belief.

From relegation despair to the edge of Champions League qualification, Sunderland’s journey is a reminder that football still rewards vision, courage, and a bit of stubborn faith.

Rio Ferdinand has come to the defence of Casemiro, praising the veteran midfielder’s resurgence and leadership at Manchester United after a difficult spell earlier in the season. Speaking on his Rio Presents podcast, as shared on the official X account, Ferdinand discussed how the 33-year-old has silenced critics through strong performances and determination.

His recent displays have been pivotal to United’s improved results, as seen in their 4–2 win against Brighton, which was reported by Softfootball, and the team has looked more balanced and composed whenever Casemiro starts.

The former United captain pointed out how Toby Collyer, a younger midfielder, was once selected ahead of Casemiro earlier this season, which could have damaged the Brazilian’s pride. Instead, he responded like a champion, re-establishing himself as a key figure in Rúben Amorim’s side. His commanding performances in games such as United’s dramatic win at Anfield, reported by Softfootball, have shown why experience still matters in top-level football.

Ferdinand said:

Casemiro is at the back of the pack. Toby’s being called upon before him. Do you know how embarrassing that would have been for Casemiro? But for him to roll his sleeves up and say, ‘No, no, no, it ain’t happening,’ that’s what fans wanted to see.

Ferdinand then referenced Jamie Carragher’s previous comments, where the pundit suggested Casemiro should consider retirement before his form declined. Rio countered:

That was highly disrespectful. You’re talking about a five-time Champions League winner. Players can lose confidence or form, but that doesn’t erase their quality or character.

Casemiro’s recent form supports Ferdinand’s view. United have recorded five wins, one draw, and just one loss in the Premier League when he starts as compared to a poor record in his absence. His leadership, communication, and ability to control midfield transitions have helped restore order to a side that had been struggling for consistency. The importance of experienced players like Casemiro cannot be overstated in maintaining balance and discipline within the team.

Watch the video below:

Casemiro I salute you man – silenced critics, rolled your sleeves up when others around you didn’t! Just remember this guy has won the Champions League 5 times pls #Casemiro #MUFC https://t.co/8eecaTIK8X pic.twitter.com/rCKYJIc217

— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) October 27, 2025

For Ferdinand, Casemiro’s response is the perfect example of resilience. When faced with doubt, he chose to fight, and in doing so, reminded everyone why class, professionalism, and pride still define him.

In the latest episode of Rio Ferdinand Presents, shared on the official X account, the former Manchester United captain dissected how Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo caused chaos for Liverpool’s defence during the 2–1 victory at Anfield. As reported by Softfootball, the win—sealed by a late Harry Maguire header—marked United’s third straight league triumph under Rúben Amorim, showcasing a new attacking sharpness led by Cunha and Mbeumo.

Ferdinand highlighted how both forwards drifted into half-spaces, forcing Liverpool’s centre-backs into uncomfortable positions and breaking their defensive rhythm. Their constant interchanging made it difficult for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté to decide whether to track tightly or hold their line.

MBEUMOOOOOOO

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 20, 2025

Mbeumo, who Softfootball reported to be happy to get himself a brace in a 4–2 win against Brighton, has been electric since joining United, combining pace, precision, and positional fluidity that perfectly complements Cunha’s creative instincts.

Ferdinand said on his podcast:

Centre-halves don’t really want to go wide or step into midfield. You’ve got to take short, sharp steps in there — big centre-halves hate that. These guys drag you into those areas but still threaten to run in behind, so you’re constantly second-guessing. You’re thinking, ‘Is he pulling me here to spin behind me, or to get the ball at his feet?’ It’s mental warfare for defenders.

Hard work
Quality

Matheus Cunha was everywhere on Sunday

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 20, 2025

He went on to describe how United’s shape pins opponents down:

Mbeumo comes inside from the right, Cunha drifts from the left, and suddenly full-backs are stuck. Amad’s pushed up, the full-back can’t help, and the centre-half’s caught in no man’s land. You can’t win — that’s what makes them so dangerous.

Watch the video below:

Why Cunha & Mbeumo are a nightmare for centre backs to defend against

CC: @rioferdy5, #MUFC pic.twitter.com/eJ68lI3DPw

— Rio Ferdinand Presents (@RioMeets) October 24, 2025

With Amorim’s system giving both players licence to roam and combine, Cunha and Mbeumo have added unpredictability and pace to United’s front line — qualities that make them a nightmare for even the best defenders in the league.

There’s something special brewing in Seville this Tuesday night as Real Betis welcome Atletico Madrid to the Estadio de La Cartuja for a pivotal Matchday 10 encounter. Both sides are level on 16 points, sitting fifth and sixth, respectively, and while it’s still early in the season, this feels like a match that could shape their European hopes.

For Atletico Madrid, the timing couldn’t be trickier. Just days ago, they were humbled 4–0 by Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League, as reported by Softfootball. Diego Simeone’s men looked lost that night, and the coach will expect a fiery response in Seville.

Julian Alvarez, who’s been sensational with eight goals and three assists, could be key once again. As reported by Softfootball, Pep Guardiola recently spoke about the Argentine forward, saying that Alvarez deserved to play more, and he’s surely proving that now.

Meanwhile, Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Betis are quietly flying. They battled to a 2–2 draw with Villarreal, then ground out a 0–0 away at Genk in the Europa League—stretching their unbeaten run to eight matches. Betis look confident, and their home form has been superb, with just one defeat in their last twelve La Liga home fixtures.

Team News

Real Betis: Isco remains out with a fractured fibula. Antony, in good touch with three goals, will likely start on the right. Amrabat could return after missing midweek action.
Atletico Madrid: Johnny Cardoso is doubtful, but Koke, Oblak, and Gimenez are ready to go. Simeone might not change much tactically despite that Arsenal defeat.

Possible Lineups

Real Betis (4-2-3-1): Valles; Ruibal, Bartra, Gómez, Rodríguez; Altimira, Deossa; Antony, Lo Celso, Riquelme; Bakambu.
Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Gimenez, Le Normand, Hancko; Simeone, Barrios, Koke, Gonzalez; Sorloth, Alvarez.

Real Betis posted on their official X account to build excitement for their LaLiga home match against Atlético Madrid, highlighting the emotional return to familiar grounds after recent away fixtures.

Two days to be at home again #RealBetisAtleti pic.twitter.com/cyjGbrUsFR

— Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) October 25, 2025

Softfootball’s Prediction

Betis have not lost in their last eight and look sharp at home. Atletico’s away form of no wins in six remains a concern. Expect intensity, maybe a bit of chaos. Betis might just snatch it.

Prediction: Real Betis 2–1 Atletico Madrid.

Liverpool’s 2025–26 Premier League campaign has taken a worrying turn under head coach Arne Slot. After starting the season with five straight wins, the Reds have now lost four consecutive league matches, and most recently Brentford, who beat them 3–2 as reported by Softfootball. The slump equals their total number of defeats from the entire previous season, signalling a serious regression for the reigning champions.

Slot admitted the performance at the Gtech Community Stadium was up there among his most disappointing since taking charge, as posted on the club’s official YouTube account. He said:

You are always hoping for a better result. But I was also hoping and expecting a better performance, because the performance was far from what we are used to.

Despite goals from Milos Kerkez and Mohamed Salah, Liverpool could not recover after conceding early to Dango Ouattara and Kevin Schade. The manager conceded that basic errors and poor duelling cost his side dearly, saying:

It’s hard to win a game of football if the other team wins more duels and more second balls than you.

His assessment echoed that of captain Virgil van Dijk, who, as reported by Softfootball, said that everyone has to look in the mirror, including himself.

The Dutch coach also revealed that Liverpool spent their final training session focusing solely on defending long throws from Brentford’s Kayode. He said:

It’s the only thing we did yesterday on the training pitch. Yet we conceded from that after five minutes.

Watch the video below:

Slot admitted that tactical preparation alone means little without concentration and communication, insisting that defending is a collective job of all 11 players.

Frustrated but not defeated, Slot urged patience, noting that summer changes and a difficult run of five away fixtures from their last six have affected rhythm. He said:

I didn’t expect it to go with four losses in a row. But we have to stay together, work harder, and find our answers quickly.

Following Liverpool’s poor run of form, captain Virgil van Dijk has delivered a candid and introspective message to his teammates and fans alike. The Dutch defender admitted that everyone in the squad must take responsibility, saying:

Everyone has to look in the mirror, including myself.

His comments come amid what one can describe as one of Liverpool’s toughest spells in recent seasons, with four losses in their last five Premier League matches. Reflecting on the defensive lapses that cost them against United and again in the 3–2 defeat at Brentford as reported by Softfootball, Van Dijk pointed to the team’s collective errors. He said:

We worked so hard to get back into the game, but if you concede a second goal like that, that’s the disappointing part.

The skipper admitted the Reds have been too rushed in possession and are making wrong decisions, leaving them exposed in transitions, a problem Arne Slot’s side appeared to fix briefly during their 5–1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League, as reported by Softfootball.

Van Dijk’s message, however, went beyond tactics. The 34-year-old urged unity within the dressing room and called on fans to stand by the team during this rough patch, as posted by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account. He said, reminding supporters of last season’s title celebrations at Anfield:

It’s not only us as players but also together with our fans and everyone who wants us to win.

Van Dijk: “Everyone has to look in the mirror including myself”.

“I am sure we will get out of this. But we won't do it just by talking about it. We will try to improve”.

“The fans who were celebrating with us last season should stand by us now”. pic.twitter.com/hOhGZRqeoJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 26, 2025

His appeal aligns with his earlier remarks in a Softfootball feature, where he warned that this campaign would test Liverpool’s mentality more than ever.

Despite the growing criticism from pundits like Jamie Carragher and Craig Burley, Van Dijk remains steadfast:

We won’t get out of this just by talking about it. We will try to improve.

With key Champions League and Premier League fixtures on the horizon, his leadership and composure could be crucial in guiding Liverpool back to stability.

Bruno Fernandes has cooled talk of a 2026 summer transfer, insisting his full focus is on Manchester United until after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking at Carrington on October 24, 2025, the captain said no discussions about his future will happen before the tournament. His remarks echo earlier reports from Softfootball, which revealed the Portuguese star’s determination to remain loyal to the club despite heavy speculation.

Fernandes stated firmly in an interview posted by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account:

My focus is Manchester United. My agent knows my way of working. If he wants to talk to me, it will be after the World Cup. Until then, I won’t speak to anyone.

The 31-year-old also dismissed rumours of a pre-arranged deal with a Saudi club, clarifying:

If the club has done that agreement, it wasn’t made with me. I haven’t spoken with anyone.

The midfielder’s comments come as United prepare for another crucial league fixture, part of their push for a fourth straight win under Rúben Amorim, as earlier highlighted by Softfootball.

Last summer, Al Hilal reportedly offered between £80m and £100m to sign Fernandes, with a four-year deal worth €25m per year — triple his current wage. However, the United skipper turned down the move after speaking with Amorim, Omar Berrada, and Jason Wilcox. He even sought advice from Cristiano Ronaldo, who told him to value legacy over money. Fernandes added:

My family feels very well here. My kids love school. We feel at home.

Bruno Fernandes on links for next summer: “My focus is Manchester United. My agent knows my way of working”.

“If he wants to talk to me, it will be after the World Cup. Until then, I won't talk to anyone!”, told The Athletic. pic.twitter.com/WwFV6YMnN0

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 25, 2025

With United’s “Project 150” targeting major silverware, the midfielder remains driven to win both the Premier League and Champions League, as reported by Softfootball.

Marcus Rashford has shared a glimpse into his calm and methodical pre-match routine in a video posted by Barcelona on their official X account, offering fans a more personal look at how he prepares for game day. The England international, who joined Barcelona after a turbulent Manchester United spell, has been open about his renewed focus and mindset since moving to Spain, as Softfootball reported about his revived confidence and joy for the game.

In the video, Rashford begins with a typical morning rhythm. He said with a grin:

I’ll probably wake up maybe 45 minutes before breakfast, open the curtains, relax for a minute, take a shower, then go for breakfast. I’ll have some porridge and eggs.

The forward explained that after team meetings and tactical briefings, he returns to his room to rest — sometimes napping, sometimes just lying back. He laughed, prompting the interviewer’s surprise:

Then I’ll probably take another shower.

That light moment quickly turned into talk of nutrition. He added:

We’ll have our pre-match meal — maybe some pasta or a bit of protein, something like that.

Rashford admitted he hadn’t eaten lunch yet, before noting that music and the team bus journey usually round off his preparation.

Watch the video below:

Rashford takes us through his pre-match routine! pic.twitter.com/4H7AAVQaRR

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 25, 2025

Rashford’s attention to detail and routine discipline reflect a mindset shaped by years under elite managers — a drive inspired partly by Cristiano Ronaldo’s professionalism, as Softfootball once reported. With Raphinha sidelined, as reported by Softfootball, Rashford’s consistency will be vital as Barcelona prepare for El Clásico.

Sean Dyche makes his Premier League return on Sunday, 26 October 2025, as Nottingham Forest visit high-flying Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. It follows a dream start to life at the City Ground, where Forest claimed a 2–0 win over Porto in the Europa League — their first victory since August, as reported by Softfootball. It was also their first European triumph since 1995, a moment Dyche later described as one he had waited a long time to experience.

The 54-year-old’s appointment, as reported by Softfootball, makes him Forest’s third permanent manager this season. Now he faces the daunting task of lifting a side sitting in the relegation zone after four defeats in their last five league games.

Nottingham Forest, via their official X account, posted a video of the new manager discussing soaking in the “Mull of Kintyre” rendition and contrasts it with past playing struggles, underscoring football’s fleeting successes.

Watch the video below:

Cherish these moments. pic.twitter.com/dS3789LXj3

— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) October 24, 2025

Bournemouth, meanwhile, continue to thrive under Andoni Iraola. The Cherries are fourth in the table with 15 points from eight matches (W4 D3 L1) and remain unbeaten in seven league outings. Their thrilling 3–3 draw at Crystal Palace last weekend saw 19-year-old Eli Junior Kroupi bag a brace, while Ryan Christie added the third before a late equaliser spoiled the party.

Team News

Evanilson (calf) misses out, David Brooks (hamstring) is doubtful, and Enes Ünal has returned to full training but won’t feature. For Forest, Chris Wood and Oleksandr Zinchenko are fitness doubts, while Ola Aina and Bakary Koné remain sidelined.

Possible Lineups

Bournemouth (4-2-3-1): Petrovic; Jimenez, Diakite, Senesi, Truffert; Adams, Scott; Tavernier, Kluivert, Semenyo; Kroupi.
Nottingham Forest (5-3-2): Sels; Savona, Murillo, Morato, Milenkovic, Williams; Anderson, Sangare, Luiz; Gibbs-White, Wood.

Softfootball’s Prediction

Bournemouth 2–1 Nottingham Forest

Iraola’s men to edge it, though Dyche’s new-found resilience could make this tighter than expected.

Mikel Arteta has again underlined his evolving football philosophy, insisting he doesn’t separate open play from set pieces but views the sport as one continuous flow. Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace on October 26, 2025, the Gunners’ boss said, as posted by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account:

Look, I don’t see the game in open play and set pieces. I see the game in a different way.

His comments come as Arsenal prepare for another crucial London derby, having already extended their beautiful start to the season, as reported by Softfootball.

Arteta on Arsenal and set pieces: “Look, I don’t see the game in open play and set-pieces. I see the game in a different way”. pic.twitter.com/zyw8Qmv59d

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 25, 2025

Arteta believes football does not stop, stressing that transitions between phases are connected. That belief has driven Arsenal’s remarkable form this term. The Gunners have scored 10 set-piece goals in just eight league games — the earliest any team has hit double digits in Premier League history. Their precision was also evident in the 4–0 demolition of Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, as reported by Softfootball.

Arteta’s focus on dead-ball dominance started a decade ago. He revealed:

Ten years ago, I said it’s a massive thing to do. I started to have a vision, implement a method, and surround myself with the best people to deliver that.

That’s how Nicolas Jover, Arsenal’s set-piece coach, became a vital figure in the project.

Despite critics saying Arsenal rely too heavily on set plays — with only five open-play goals this season — Arteta remains unmoved. He said:

No, not at all. Football’s not open play and set pieces. It’s one whole game.

With just three league goals conceded, Arsenal boast the best defensive record in the Premier League. Arteta believes that’s no coincidence. He said:

The teams with the best defensive records, most of the time, win the title. The stronger we are with the foundations, the more probability we have of winning.

His message is clear — for Arsenal, set pieces are not shortcuts; they are part of a bigger, flowing idea. Football, as Arteta sees it, is never static. It’s always learning, always moving.

Premier League leaders Arsenal host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, 26 October 2025, for a London derby that promises fireworks. The Gunners, under Mikel Arteta, have made a blistering start to the campaign, winning six of eight of their opening league matches and extending their dominance in Europe with a 4–0 thrashing of Atlético Madrid in midweek.

In that victory, Gabriel Magalhães opened the scoring, and Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres was again decisive—a performance that led Ole Gunnar Solskjær to hail him as Arsenal’s fox in the box, as reported by Softfootball. That triumph also marked Arsenal’s 100th UEFA Champions League win—a milestone Softfootball described as a statement of power and precision.

Arsenal, via their official YouTube account, posted Mikel Arteta’s pre-match press conference for their upcoming Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, highlighting his focus on maintaining a defensive record of just three goals conceded in 12 games.

Watch the video below:

Confidence is sky-high in north London, but Arteta will demand focus against a Palace side capable of springing surprises. The Eagles, led by Oliver Glasner, have shown flashes of brilliance — notably Jean-Philippe Mateta’s hat-trick against Bournemouth — yet their form remains inconsistent with just one win from their last five outings.

Team News

For Arsenal, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Noni Madueke remain long-term absentees. Magalhães is a doubt after limping off against Atlético, while Jurriën Timber and Riccardo Calafiori are also under assessment. Arteta admitted while providing the latest injury update as posted on the team’s official X account:

Gabi had to leave the pitch with an issue… We’ll see how it evolves in the next 24 hours.

Crystal Palace are without Chadi Riad (ACL), Cheick Doucouré (knee), and Caleb Kporha, though Tyrick Mitchell is expected to return to the starting XI.

Mikel provides the latest on our defender https://t.co/Vry0n86cS8 pic.twitter.com/0XkoR9hk5x

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 24, 2025

Possible Lineups

Arsenal (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Calafiori; Eze, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyökeres, Martinelli.
Crystal Palace (3-4-2-1): Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Guehi; Munoz, Wharton, Kamada, Mitchell; Pino, Sarr; Mateta.

Softfootball’s Prediction

Arsenal 2–1 Crystal Palace.
The Gunners’ defensive solidity and home form—unbeaten in six at the Emirates—should edge them through, though Palace’s pace on transitions could cause a scare or two. Expect a lively clash, a few nervy moments, and probably another Gyökeres goal to keep Arsenal’s perfect start alive.

Lionel Messi once again proved the difference for Inter Miami, scoring twice in a 3–1 win over Nashville SC at Chase Stadium on Friday night to give his side a 1–0 advantage in their first-round MLS playoff series. The Argentine, who was presented with the 2025 MLS Golden Boot before kickoff—an award he earned after topping the league’s scoring chart with 29 goals—wasted little time showing why he’s still the game’s biggest name.

The forward has been in unstoppable form lately, netting a hat-trick just six days earlier against the same opponent on the final matchday of the regular season. The night carried an extra layer of celebration after Inter Miami confirmed Messi’s new three-year contract extension, keeping him in Florida until 2028, as reported by Softfootball.

If there was any pressure, Messi didn’t show it. He opened the scoring in the 19th minute, leaping to head home a perfectly measured cross from Luis Suárez after a clever buildup involving Sergio Busquets and Rodrigo De Paul. That goal sent the home fans into a roar and gave Miami the platform they needed to control the match.

GOOOOL! Asistencia de Lucho Cabezazo de Leoooo pic.twitter.com/LuVc9vIV79

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) October 25, 2025

The hosts looked confident from then on. Tadeo Allende doubled the lead in the 62nd minute, ghosting in at the far post to nod in Ian Fray’s delivery, with Messi again involved in the move. Nashville rarely looked threatening, managing just two shots on target all evening, while Miami dictated the tempo through Busquets’ calm passing and De Paul’s energy in midfield. The visitors’ best chance before the break came from Jacob Shaffelburg, but his low strike was easily stopped by Rios Novo.

ALLENDE WITH THE STRIKE pic.twitter.com/AaNfv4JYWY

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) October 25, 2025

As posted on the club’s official X account, Messi then sealed the win deep into stoppage time (90+6′) when Nashville keeper Joe Willis spilled Jordi Alba’s cross, leaving the Argentine to calmly slot home his second. It was another statement moment from the captain, who continues to shape MLS to his rhythm. Hany Mukhtar’s late free kick in the 101st minute made it 3–1, but it did little to change the narrative—this was Messi’s night, once again.

LEOOO pic.twitter.com/j5YWP4rceD

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) October 25, 2025

The victory puts Inter Miami one win away from the next round, with the return leg set for November 1 in Tennessee. As Softfootball earlier noted, the Herons already had Nashville’s number in their last meeting, and this performance only reaffirmed their dominance. For Messi, it was business as usual — two goals, total control, and another step closer to adding an MLS Cup title to his glittering collection.