After scoring yet another goal against Deportivo Alaves, Kylian Mbappé is closing in on a historic goalscoring record of Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid.

Kylian Mbappé has been thriving at the start of the 2025–26 season with Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants showing a growing reliance on their star to deliver results. After scoring again against Deportivo Alavés, Mbappé is now on the verge of breaking one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s most iconic goal-scoring records at the club.

With head coach Xabi Alonso under pressure to show improvement amid a challenging stretch, Real Madrid traveled to face Alavés on Sunday for Matchday 16 of La Liga. In the 2-1 victory, Mbappé opened the scoring with a brilliant solo effort in the 24th minute, a goal that moved him one step closer to history.

Mbappé has now scored 56 goals in the 2025 calendar year for Real Madrid and needs just four more to become the club’s all-time single-year top scorer. The record is currently held by Cristiano Ronaldo, who set the benchmark with 59 goals in 2013 during his time at the Bernabéu.

After a slow start following his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, 2025 has marked a dramatic turnaround for Mbappé at Real Madrid. He scored 30 goals across all competitions in the first half of the year, including one at the FIFA Club World Cup, and has added another 26 so far this season, producing a staggering total.

Mbappé has become the only player outside of Ronaldo to crack Real Madrid’s top five list for goals in a calendar year, with the Portuguese legend occupying the remaining spots. The list currently stands as follows:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2013: 59 goals.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2012: 58 goals.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2014: 56 goals.
4. Kylian Mbappe — 2025: 56 goals.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo — 2015: 54 goals.

How many chances does Mbappé have left?

The goal against Alavés leaves Mbappé tied with one of Ronaldo’s seasons at 56 goals. He is two goals shy of Ronaldo’s 58-goal campaign and three away from the all-time mark of 59, a record he will be eager to chase with limited opportunities remaining as the calendar year winds down.

With Sunday’s match now in the books, Real Madrid have just two games left in 2025. The next comes Wednesday, December 17, against Talavera CF in the Copa del Rey Round of 32, presenting a prime opportunity for Mbappé to add to his tally.

Real Madrid will then close out the year at home against Sevilla on Saturday, December 20, for Matchday 17 of La Liga. With the next fixture not scheduled until January 4 against Real Betis, Mbappé will need at least three goals to match Ronaldo’s record and four to surpass it, an achievement that would mark a historic statement just 18 months into his Real Madrid career.

A former teammate of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe at Paris Saint-Germain explained the fallout of the relationship between the two soccer stars.

Neymar and Kylian Mbappé formed one of the most explosive attacking duos in Paris Saint-Germain history, helping the club dominate French soccer for several seasons. However, their relationship eventually cooled, and years after their time together in Paris came to an end, a former PSG teammate has offered insight into how the bond between the two stars unraveled.

As part of PSG’s ambitious UEFA Champions League project, Neymar and Mbappé both arrived in Paris in the summer of 2017, Neymar via a world-record transfer from FC Barcelona and Mbappé initially on loan from AS Monaco before a massive permanent deal. One of the leaders of that squad was Thiago Silva, who witnessed firsthand the early chemistry between the two attacking stars.

In an interview with L’Équipe, Silva recalled the period leading up to their arrival and the strong connection they initially shared. “At Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé and Neymar got along well at first, but their relationship deteriorated. Why? It was a beautiful story. I remember the Trophée des Champions match against Monaco, Kylian Mbappé’s team, in Morocco,” the defender stated, where PSG collected a 2-1 win on July 29.

The Brazilian defender then explained how Mbappé pushed for his move to Paris: “At the end of the match, Mbappé wanted to speak with me. He said, ‘Even if Neymar signs, I also want to come and be part of this team. If you could talk to the president…’ Both arrived that summer, and their relationship was incredible. They were very close, among the ones who had the most fun together on a daily basis.“

Silva left PSG as a free agent in 2020 to join Chelsea, meaning he was no longer at the club when the relationship soured. “I didn’t understand why they drifted apart. I was no longer at PSG by then. I don’t know which of the two caused the split, but it saddened me. They are two great guys, and it’s disappointing that it ended like that,” he concluded.

PSG reached a new peak in the 2019–20 season, when they advanced to their first Champions League final, losing 1-0 to Bayern Munich. The following season, Lionel Messi joined the club, but PSG never fully recaptured the dominance of the early Neymar–Mbappé years. With Messi and Neymar eventually leaving Paris, tensions within the squad became more evident, and Silva’s comments now shed more light on the internal dynamic.

Silva on Neymar’s recovery ahead of the World Cup

Now 41 and playing for Brazilian side Fluminense, Thiago Silva is enjoying the final chapter of an illustrious career away from Europe and the Brazil national team spotlight. Neymar, meanwhile, remains focused on returning to the Seleção ahead of the 2026 World Cup, though persistent injury issues have complicated that path.

During the interview, Silva defended his longtime teammate and emphasized Neymar’s professionalism: “He’s judged unfairly. I assure you that he is preparing the right way, that he is determined to be at his best for the World Cup. Don’t forget that he is coming off a serious injury to his left knee. Contrary to what people think, Neymar is doing the right things.“

Despite feeling physically strong in recent months, Neymar is now expected to undergo surgery on his left knee as part of his recovery process. “Before one of his recent physical setbacks, he felt in perfect shape. But that’s when injuries happen. You feel so good that you push yourself too hard, and then something gives,” the defender added.

After their performances in the 2025 MLS season, Inter Miami have given stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba a special club recognition.

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have undeniably been two of Inter Miami’s defining figures, not only during the 2025 campaign but ever since their arrival in 2023. That process reached one of its highest points with the club’s MLS Cup triumph. Following a productive 2025 MLS season, both Messi and Alba have now received special recognition from the franchise.

The 2025 season has officially come to an end, with the Philadelphia Union lifting the Supporters’ Shield and Inter Miami defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps to claim the MLS Cup. As MLS clubs hand out internal awards to recognize standout performances, Inter Miami did the same, honoring Messi and Alba with two of the club’s top individual accolades.

Lionel Messi was named Inter Miami’s Most Valuable Player of the Year. Coming off his best season since joining the club, the Argentine posted 43 goals and 26 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions. Messi also became the first player to win the Landon Donovan MLS MVP Award in back-to-back seasons, and he was an unsurprising choice to top Inter Miami’s internal honors as well.

Meanwhile, in what is set to be his final season as a professional player, Jordi Alba was named Inter Miami CF’s Defensive Player of the Year for 2025. The award reflected not only his defensive consistency, but also his impact going forward, as the veteran fullback recorded eight goals and 16 assists in 52 matches, often serving as an extra attacking outlet.

Back in 2024, both Messi and Alba were selected to the MLS Best XI after Inter Miami claimed the Supporters’ Shield during the regular season. The 2025 campaign was different, as Messi was the only Herons player included in the league’s Best XI, but Alba’s influence throughout the season remained impossible to ignore.

Messi and Alba’s numbers at Inter Miami

The year 2023 marked a turning point for Inter Miami, a club that had been near the bottom of the MLS standings and without a trophy since its foundation. Following the arrivals of Messi and Alba, the club reached a new level, adding the Leagues Cup, the Supporters’ Shield, and the MLS Cup to its trophy cabinet.

Jordi Alba will close the chapter on his professional career after making 103 appearances for Inter Miami, becoming one of the few players to reach the century mark, and also with 15 goals and 33 assists, the second-highest assist total in club history. Lionel Messi, meanwhile, has registered 77 goals and 44 assists in 88 matches, an extraordinary rate of production that he will look to extend during the 2026 season.

With the Finalissima happening in just a few months, Julián Álvarez snubbed Lamine Yamal and another two Spain stars to play for Argentina national team.

Lamine Yamal is expected to be one of the headliners in the upcoming Finalissima between Spain and Argentina next March, a matchup that would see him share the field with Lionel Messi for the first time. However, despite finishing as the runner-up in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, the Barcelona star was overlooked by Julián Álvarez, who instead selected two other Spain internationals to represent Argentina.

Álvarez has firmly established himself as one of the world’s top strikers and remains a key figure for the Argentina side that lifted the World Cup. Now starring for Atlético Madrid in La Liga, the forward has already faced Yamal multiple times domestically, but the teenager still does not appear to be his preferred fit for a hypothetical Albiceleste lineup.

During a rapid-fire interview with Marca, and with the Finalissima approaching, Álvarez was asked which Spain player he would choose to play for Argentina. “Rodri,” the striker replied, naming his former Manchester City teammate with whom he won the UEFA Champions League.

Álvarez was then given the opportunity to make a second selection, and once again Yamal was left out. “Pedri,” he answered immediately, opting for another FC Barcelona standout rather than the highly touted 18-year-old winger.

With Spain already securing qualification for the World Cup by finishing atop their group, the Finalissima no longer faces another postponement and is expected to go ahead as planned. While no official announcement has been made, the match is projected for Friday, March 27, at Lusail Stadium in Doha, a stage where Yamal could look to prove Álvarez wrong against one of the world’s elite national teams.

Yamal leads head-to-head against Álvarez

Julián Álvarez’s move to Spain coincided with Yamal’s breakout 2024–25 season. While Álvarez was still at Manchester City, the two never crossed paths at club or international level, but frequent clashes between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona have since created a growing rivalry.

Álvarez has faced Yamal’s Barcelona five times, recording just one win, a match in which Yamal was sidelined with an ankle injury in December 2024. In the four meetings since, Barcelona have claimed three victories along with a 4-4 draw. During that stretch, Yamal has registered one goal and two assists, while Álvarez has scored twice and added one assist, giving the edge to the Spanish teenager so far.

As one of the most interesting games of the group stage, an Uruguay player has issued a strong warning to Lamine Yamal ahead of their clash with Spain in the 2026 World Cup.

Lamine Yamal will make his World Cup debut in 2026 at just 18 years old, already established as Spain’s biggest rising star. But the FC Barcelona winger is not expecting a warm welcome, as an Uruguay international has issued a strong warning ahead of their high-stakes group-stage showdown.

As a Pot 1 nation, Spain landed in Group H and will face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, this last one widely viewed as their toughest opponent. Uruguayan right back Guillermo Varela is aiming to spoil Spain’s plans and push La Celeste to the top of the group.

Speaking to La Mañana del Fútbol on El Espectador, Varela broke down the group stage: “This is a different Saudi Arabia than the one from the 2018 World Cup—it’s more prepared than before, although that match was difficult for us. Spain is a powerhouse and a contender to win the World Cup. But if we make the adjustments we need to make in Uruguay, I don’t think we’d have trouble advancing.“

Beyond his confidence in Uruguay’s path, Varela added some heat to the upcoming duel with Lamine Yamal, issuing a playful but pointed warning. “It’s going to be fun. He knows that we Uruguayans like to play tough, so he’s going to have to be ready—he’ll have to put his foot in too,” he said with a laugh.

Spain and Uruguay will meet on Matchday 3 on June 26 at Akron Stadium in Mexico, in what could be a decisive battle for the top spot in Group H. With the runner-up likely to face Argentina in the Round of 32, the stakes for both La Roja and La Celeste couldn’t be higher.

Spain and Uruguay already met in World Cups

As a two-time World Cup champion and one of the sport’s historic powers, Uruguay enters the tournament with pedigree, and Spain, one of the most consistent forces of the 21st century, completes what should be one of the group stage’s marquee matchups. Fans will be watching closely to see which nation earns its first World Cup win in the fixture.

Uruguay and Spain have met twice in World Cups, with the first game happening in Brazil 1950 during the second group phase, ending in a 2-2 draw. The second came 40 years later at Italia ’90, a scoreless draw in the opening round. Nearly another four decades later, both sides will be looking to finally break the deadlock in 2026.

After Lionel Messi's comments on the clash, Argentina star Emiliano Dibu Martinez set the record straight on playing the Finalissima against Spain a few months before the beginning of the 2026 World Cup.

Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has become one of Argentina’s key leaders alongside Lionel Messi and will be a cornerstone of the squad heading into the 2026 World Cup. With the Finalissima looming, the Argentine goalkeeper has now set the record straight on facing Spain just months before the tournament begins.

The Finalissima has sparked debate and criticism, with many arguing that players from both national teams shouldn’t be forced to compete for a trophy so close to the World Cup. Martínez doesn’t see it that way. For him, a matchup against Lamine Yamal’s Spain represents a major opportunity, despite the proximity to the global competition.

Speaking with Argentine outlet DSports, Martínez set a strong tone for the showdown: “I’d love to play it. First, because Spain is one of the teams to beat at the World Cup and one of the best national teams in the world. And it would be a great test for us two months before the World Cup — good preparation for what’s ahead. Beating Italy gave us a huge boost going into Qatar, and we hope it will be the same with Spain.”

He also addressed concerns about playing such a high-profile match so close to the World Cup. “I understand the argument that we’re close to the World Cup and coaches don’t want to play it because opponents can analyze you. But we like to play, compete, and win titles, so hopefully it happens,” he added.

Lionel Messi recently cast doubt on the match, easing expectations by saying, “It’s not even confirmed if it will be played.” But unlike the captain, Martínez views the Finalissima as a valuable test and a chance for the Albiceleste to measure themselves against FIFA’s top-ranked national team.

While an official announcement has yet to be made, the Finalissima is expected to take place on Friday, March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, the same venue where Argentina lifted the 2022 World Cup. The Albiceleste would be looking to earn back-to-back Finalissima wins following their victory over Italy.

Martínez and his focus on the 2026 World Cup

Dibu Martínez has cemented himself as a legendary figure in Argentine soccer, delivering unforgettable saves that helped Messi’s Argentina win the 2022 World Cup. Still, the Aston Villa star admitted he had “technical errors in the matches” during the tournament after conceding eight goals.

Looking ahead to 2026, Martínez expressed full confidence: “I’m going to feel better in this one — I’ll be better. Physically I feel perfect.” The goalkeeper also highlighted his desire on the group stage draw. “I wanted a group you can get through, where you can compete and there are no surprises. We lost to Saudi Arabia, who were supposed to be the easiest,” he added.

Drawn into a group with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, Argentina enters as the clear favorite to win Group J, but Martínez prefers caution. “Today you don’t know who the easiest is. Luckily, we already have the experience of losing the first match and being 20 minutes away from elimination against Mexico. That experience helps for the next one,” he concluded.

Cristiano Ronaldo will have to wait a little longer to return to make his official return to the pitch with Al Nassr as the Saudi Pro League has taken the decision to postpone its restart.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2025-26 campaign had already been interrupted by the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, which kicked off in early December and will conclude before the holidays. Now, the Portuguese star will have to wait even longer to play an official match for Al Nassr, as the Saudi Pro League has announced a sudden postponement of its restart.

With Saudi Arabia competing in the tournament, several SPL players have been called up, prompting the league to pause during the competition to avoid issues related to player availability. However, the league has now made a decision that will force fans to wait a bit longer before seeing Ronaldo back in competitive action.

On Wednesday, the Saudi Pro League confirmed the postponement of all Matchday 10 fixtures of the 2025-26 season. Originally scheduled for December 19–21, the matches have now been rescheduled for February 22–25.

In its announcement, the SPL noted that clubs had previously been informed “of the possibility of postponement should the Saudi national team qualify for the semifinals of the Arab Cup.” Following Saudi Arabia’s 2–1 win over Palestine in Wednesday’s quarterfinals, the national team reached the semifinal round, triggering the official postponement.

“The League reaffirms its commitment to aligning the league schedule with the national team’s participation, as well as ensuring the best competitive conditions for the clubs,” part of the SPL statement read. With Matchday 10 against Al Najma pushed back, Ronaldo’s official return is now on hold.

When will Ronaldo return to play for Al Nassr?

During this unusual mid-season pause, Cristiano Ronaldo has stayed active by appearing in friendlies to maintain his fitness. On Wednesday the 10th, he returned to the pitch with a goal in Al Nassr’s 4-2 win over Al Wahda, but his official comeback will have to wait.

Al Nassr’s next official match is scheduled for December 24 against Al Zawraa in the AFC Champions League Two. However, since Ronaldo has not featured in that competition this season, he is more likely to return on December 27, when Al Nassr host Al Okhdood in Matchday 11 of the SPL. Currently sitting atop the table with a perfect 27 points from 27, Ronaldo and his teammates will be eager to extend their dominant run.

With nearly two weeks between the latest friendly and their upcoming competitive fixture, Al Nassr will need to maintain their rhythm during this extended break. In fact, Jorge Jesus is reportedly seeking another friendly next week to complete the team’s preparations, with Ronaldo potentially featuring again as he did in the previous match.

Santiago Giménez’s future at AC Milan remains unresolved, and as an alternative attacking option, a former Former Inter star has been reportedly offered to the Rossoneri.

Santiago Giménez has become one of AC Milan’s biggest question marks during the 2025–26 season, as the Mexican striker has struggled to find his best form and secure a consistent place in the starting lineup. Amid rumors of a possible exit, new reports suggest that a former Inter star could now be making his way to the red-and-black side of the city.

With head coach Massimiliano Allegri still searching for Milan’s best version, Giménez has been one of the players unable to cement his spot in the XI. With only one goal and two assists in 11 matches so far, and currently sidelined as he recovers from an ankle injury, his future has become increasingly uncertain, and the Rossoneri may already have a potential replacement in mind.

According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, Mauro Icardi has been offered to AC Milan as a possible solution should Giménez depart. The Argentine striker, now back from an ACL injury, has struggled to regain his starting role at Galatasaray, and with his contract set to expire at the end of the 2025–26 season, Icardi’s name is resurfacing after also being linked with a move during the 2024 summer window.

Icardi ranks eighth on Inter Milan’s all-time scoring list with 124 goals, but despite serving as Galatasaray’s captain, he has recently lost his place to an in-form Victor Osimhen. Milan have emerged as a potential next destination, though Moretto notes that the move remains complicated, as Icardi is not among the club’s top striker targets, and any deal would first require determining Giménez’s future.

With Giménez yet to convince the club with his performances, Milan are indeed exploring options for the attack, though the Mexican’s situation must be resolved first. His last appearance came on October 28 against Atalanta, and the striker’s preference is reportedly to stay and fight for his spot through the end of the season rather than leave in January before making a final decision.

Icardi and a heated situation in Türkiye

After a frustrating spell at Paris Saint-Germain, Icardi rediscovered his form at Galatasaray, where he has become not only the captain but also a fan favorite. However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, local speculation about his future has sparked tension, something the striker did not take lightly.

In an Instagram story titled “FAKE NEWS,” Icardi addressed the rumors head-on: “I understand that my name sells and that some Turkish ‘journalists’ want to claim that the club called me to inform me about my ‘non-renewal’… but not only did no one call me, they didn’t call my agent either. Do they want to push a story that is NOT a story—considering my contract ends in June 2026—to cover up yesterday’s defeat? I won’t allow them to use my image for that.“

The striker ended his message with a statement that added even more intrigue to his future at the club. “Rest assured, when my contract ends, I’ll leave with my head held high. And in the hypothetical case that I leave earlier, it would be solely and 100% my decision—no one else’s. Sending a kiss. You’ll have Icardi for a few more months. Enjoy it, because afterward you’re going to miss me,” he wrote.

With a first look to the new jersey, Inter Miami announced the renewal of one of Lionel Messi's key teammates.

Lionel Messi’s extension has given Inter Miami the stability needed to begin shaping the roster for another run at the MLS Cup in 2026. With the squad taking form for the new campaign, one of Messi’s key teammates has now announced his contract renewal, offering a subtle first look at the club’s jersey for the upcoming MLS season.

With the 2025 MLS season in the books, clubs across the league have begun adjusting their rosters, and Inter Miami has already confirmed the departure of three players. However, one player whose deal was set to expire at the end of the campaign will remain with the club for years to come.

On Thursday, Inter Miami announced the extension of defender Ian Fray through the 2028–29 season. The Jamaican international was entering the final year of his contract in 2025, but after a strong season, the Inter Miami academy product has committed his future to the club.

Fray spoke with Inter Miami’s official website and reflected on signing a new deal: “To continue this journey here feels amazing, this club has put so much trust in me for the last 5 years I’ve been here. Going through injuries, they kept their trust in me to sign a new contract and now we’ve won the MLS Cup, so I’m excited for next year.“

Fray struggled early in the season due to fitness issues but gradually earned the trust of head coach Javier Mascherano down the stretch. With 35 appearances, one goal, and three assists in 2025, Fray started at right back in the MLS Cup final against the Vancouver Whitecaps, and with Marcelo Weigandt’s departure confirmed, he currently stands as the frontrunner to retain the starting role.

A first look at Inter Miami’s new jersey

Back in February 2025, Inter Miami unveiled the “Euforia” home kit, the jersey Lionel Messi and company would use for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. As with previous editions, the kit spans two years, but now it features a small yet meaningful update.

After lifting the MLS Cup, Inter Miami will carry a silver star above the crest to commemorate the franchise’s biggest achievement. In the video announcing his renewal, Ian Fray appeared wearing the Euforia jersey with the new star already embroidered, offering fans a sneak peek at the version the team will showcase in 2026.

After the chaos in the game against Celta Vigo, Kylian Mbappé will be missing four Real Madrid teammates as La Liga confirmed their suspensions.

Kylian Mbappé has become the focal point of a Real Madrid side that has struggled to deliver convincing performances whenever the French star isn’t at his best. Following the chaos in their latest league match against Celta Vigo, La Liga has now confirmed the suspensions of four of Mbappé’s teammates.

For Matchday 16, Real Madrid hosted Celta Vigo last Sunday in a match where Los Blancos once again failed to close the gap on FC Barcelona at the top of the table. After Celta opened the scoring in the 54th minute, frustrations and rising tension led to a desperate response from Madrid, which suffered their first major blow in the 64th minute when Fran García was sent off after committing two quick fouls.

As Real Madrid pushed for an equalizer, tension between the players and referee Alejandro Quintero González escalated, but it boiled over in the 90+2 minute. Álvaro Carreras was shown a red card after twice protesting to the referee while trying to restart play quickly, a decision sparked outrage across the Madrid bench, leading to further confrontations and bookings, including suspensions for Dani Carvajal and Endrick, who were both substitutes.

On Wednesday, La Liga issued a statement confirming that Álvaro Carreras, Dani Carvajal, and Endrick will each serve a two-match suspension. Meanwhile, defender Fran García will serve a one-match ban for his red card.

According to the disciplinary committee, the two-game bans stem from repeated protests and “disparagement” toward referee Quintero González. In contrast, García’s dismissal was due to an in-play foul, resulting in a less severe punishment than the others.

Currently sitting second with 36 points, Real Madrid will travel to face Deportivo Alavés on Sunday, where Mbappé and company will be without all four suspended teammates. García will return for the following match against Sevilla, but Carreras, Carvajal, and Endrick will have to wait one more week.

Alonso expresses frustration with the referee

Carreras’ red card infuriated Real Madrid, causing several players from the bench to rush toward the referee in protest, and coach Xabi Alonso was no exception. With rumors already circulating about his future, the former Bayern Munich midfielder also voiced his displeasure to Quintero González, earning a yellow card and capping a night to forget.

In the post-match press conference, Alonso gave a blunt assessment of the officiating: “The referee’s decisions drove us crazy. The sending-off… he was very permissive, I didn’t like his performance at all… Álvaro’s yellow card is very debatable, it felt like he really wanted to give it. I didn’t like it, and it threw us off a bit. I didn’t like the officiating.”

Amid reports linking him with a move to Manchester United, Sergio Ramos has delivered a heartfelt farewell to CF Monterrey.

Sergio Ramos has announced his departure from CF Monterrey after a year in which the Spanish defender earned the respect and admiration of fans, becoming one of the most impactful signings in Liga MX. Amid reports linking him to Manchester United as his next destination, Ramos shared a heartfelt farewell to Rayados in an extended message.

Monterrey were enjoying a strong run in the 2025 Liga MX Apertura, reaching the semifinals and taking a 1-0 win in the first leg against Toluca. However, the Red Devils completed a 3-2 comeback in the second leg last Saturday, eliminating Rayados and marking Ramos’ final match for the club.

After the game, Ramos took to social media to post a special message to Monterrey and their supporters. “Saying goodbye is never easy. A chapter comes to an end—one that began full of excitement in February and allowed me to discover a new country, a new city, a new style of football… a chapter that leaves me with many new experiences and, above all, many friends,” the message started.

Ramos earned the captain’s armband shortly after arriving in February, a responsibility he greatly valued: “I will always feel proud to have worn the Rayados captain’s armband, to have led the team in the first Club World Cup in its new format, to have battled through the Clausura, the Apertura, the Leagues Cup, the CONCACAF Champions Cup… and to have defended the Steel Giant with courage by your side in every home match.

“To the club, to my beloved teammates, to the coaching staffs, to the employees—thank you. And above all, thank you to the fans, who showed me warmth and affection from the moment I set foot in the city. I will always look back on this stage of my career with nostalgia, and I will always say with pride: ¡Arriba el Monterrey!” Ramos concluded in an Instagram post that included 20 photos highlighting his time at the club.

Beyond Liga MX, Sergio Ramos featured in the Leagues Cup, the CONCACAF Champions Cup, and the FIFA 2025 Club World Cup, where Monterrey advanced from the group stage. Although he leaves Mexico without a trophy, Ramos — now 39 — made a significant impact in less than a year, finishing with 32 appearances and seven goals.

Manchester United, Sergio Ramos’ next destination?

Even after confirming his departure from Monterrey, questions remain about where Ramos will go next, whether he could join Lionel Messi in MLS or make a return to Europe. With the veteran defender still open to new challenges, one European giant may be preparing a move.

According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, Manchester United have presented Sergio Ramos with a proposal to join the club as a free agent in the winter transfer window. Reports indicate the defender is eager to return to Europe, and with his contract expiring in December 2025, the Red Devils have emerged as a potential landing spot for the former Real Madrid star.

With his goal against Galatasaray, Folarin Balogun has reached an historic USMNT Champions League goalscoring record not even Christian Pulisic was able to claim.

Folarin Balogun became AS Monaco’s hero on Tuesday against Galatasaray, as the former Arsenal striker scored the lone goal to lift the French side in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League table. Beyond securing the three points, Balogun also reached a historic USMNT milestone in the competition that even Christian Pulisic never managed to hit.

Monaco were one of the teams featured on Matchday 6 of the current Champions League, taking on a Galatasaray side that had already earned impressive wins over Liverpool and Ajax. After Denis Zakaria missed a penalty in the 50th minute, Balogun pounced on a rebound in the box off a corner to score in the 68th minute, delivering the decisive strike and etching his name into USMNT history.

With his goal against Galatasaray, Folarin Balogun became the first USMNT player ever to score in three straight UEFA Champions League matches. The striker previously found the net in the 1-0 win over FK Bodø/Glimt and again in the 2-2 draw against Pafos FC, completing the record-setting streak on Tuesday against the Turkish club.

USMNT players have taken on increasingly prominent roles in Europe in recent years, particularly in the Champions League, where Timothy Weah also became just the second American to score against Real Madrid after Pulisic. Now, with Balogun’s stellar form, he extends that trend, helping push Monaco to 18th place with nine points and a spot in the playoff round.

Christian Pulisic and multiple times on the edge of history

More than a decade after he arrived at Borussia Dortmund and broke into European soccer, Pulisic remains the most influential USMNT representative in the Champions League. In addition to being the American with the most appearances in the competition at 63, he also leads all USMNT players with 12 goals.

Pulisic never managed the streak Balogun just set, but he came close on several occasions. During his Chelsea tenure, he scored in both legs of the 2021–22 round of 16 matchup against Lille, playing a key role in sending the club through. However, he was unable to find a third straight goal in the next round against Real Madrid.

Another brief scoring run came after his move to AC Milan, though across different editions. Pulisic scored in Milan’s final match of the 2023–24 campaign against Newcastle United, then found the net again in the opening match of the 2024–25 tournament against Liverpool. That streak also ended at two, this time across two different seasons.

Lionel Messi is already watching Inter Miami’s roster take shape ahead of the 2026 MLS season, and now three of his teammates are set to depart before the new campaign.

Lionel Messi capped the 2025 season by leading Inter Miami to the MLS Cup, but the front office is already shifting focus toward strengthening the squad for next year. Starting internally, three of Messi’s teammates will now have to look for new clubs ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The retirements of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba open the door for Inter Miami to pursue another high-profile signing, with Messi and Rodrigo De Paul occupying the Designated Player slots. Still, before any major additions are announced, several players will be moving on from Fort Lauderdale.

With MLS releasing the Eligible Player Lists for Offseason Roster Mechanisms, Fafa Picault, Ryan Sailor, and Allen Obando are the three Inter Miami players set to be offloaded. Picault and Sailor have contracts expiring in December 2025, while the Ecuadorian forward has been included in the End-of-Year Waivers.

Picault logged the most minutes of the trio, appearing in 28 matches and scoring four goals, but with Tadeo Allende and Mateo Silvetti earning starting roles through stronger performances, the veteran winger’s importance in the squad diminished. Sailor, meanwhile, played just 184 minutes across six matches, serving mostly as an unused substitute.

Obando’s case is more complicated, as the 19-year-old arrived as a promising long-term prospect, but inconsistent performances and physical setbacks pushed him out of the rotation. He managed only seven appearances and two goals since joining in March, falling out of favor with both the coaching staff and the front office.

As a result, Obando is the lone Inter Miami player listed in MLS’s End-of-Year Waivers, with San Jose holding the first pick and Miami selecting 30th in each round. Clubs will have until Thursday to submit a claim, with Obando hoping to land a fresh opportunity as the Herons turn to reinforcing the squad for their 2026 title defense.

Three Inter Miami players still up in the air

Picault, Sailor, and Obando appear set to depart Messi’s team, but several other roster decisions remain unresolved—aside from the situation surrounding star striker Luis Suárez—particularly involving three Argentine players.

Inter Miami’s Marcelo Weigandt, Rocco Ríos-Novo, and Óscar Ustari were listed in Stage 1 of the Re-Entry Process. Weigandt and Ríos-Novo have loan deals expiring, and it remains unclear whether the club will attempt to secure their permanent transfers. Ustari is out of contract as well, raising further questions as Miami risk losing two of their most-used goalkeepers from the 2025 season.

The draw of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup was made on Tuesday, and now Lionel Messi's Inter Miami know their potential rivals in the competition.

Lionel Messi wrapped up a spectacular 2025 season with Inter Miami after lifting the MLS Cup last Saturday, building even more anticipation for the club’s next major objective: the CONCACAF Champions Cup. With the draw now finalized, the Herons know their potential opponents for the continental tournament.

Since Messi’s arrival in 2023, Inter Miami have entered nearly every competition as title contenders, but the Champions Cup remains the one trophy that has slipped through the Argentine’s grasp. Following Tuesday night’s draw, Miami’s potential path for another run at the intercontinental crown has been unveiled.

Inter Miami will face the winner of the matchup between MLS side Nashville SC and Canadian outfit Atlético Ottawa in the Round of 16. The Herons had already secured their place in the tournament, but by winning the MLS Cup, they earned the privilege of bypassing the opening round and will now wait to see who emerges from the first-round series.

Several other teams also earned direct entry into the Champions Cup’s Round of 16. One of them is the Seattle Sounders, who qualified by winning the 2025 Leagues Cup, ironically defeating Inter Miami in the final. The other automatic qualifiers are Caribbean Cup champions Mount Pleasant and Copa Centroamericana winners Deportivo Alajuelense.

If Inter Miami advance, they could potentially meet Mexican giants Club América, setting up a possible repeat of 2025’s heated preseason clash that involved Messi and opposing fans. With such a challenging road to the final—and after falling to the Vancouver Whitecaps in last season’s semifinals—Messi and company will be determined to make an even deeper run.

Champions Cup the top priority for Inter Miami

After winning the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and now the MLS Cup in 2025, Inter Miami have collected the most significant domestic trophies. Still, with Messi under contract through 2028, the club is intent on continuing its ascent, with the next step being the most prestigious club title in the CONCACAF region.

Speaking to reporters before the MLS Cup final, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas discussed the club’s plans to replace departing stars Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, while also making clear the organization’s ambitions for next season: “The club’s goal for 2026 is to win the Champions Cup, and of course I want to go in with a fully loaded starting XI.”

Inter Miami will open their 2026 campaign on February 21 on the road against Son Heung-min’s LAFC, with the Champions Cup Round of 16 first leg scheduled between March 10–12 and the second leg between March 17–19. No matter whether Nashville or Atlético Ottawa advance, Messi is expected to feature in those matches as Inter Miami debut the newly built Miami Freedom Park.

Lamine Yamal reacted with a clear discomfort after being subbed off against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League, and head coach Hansi Flick set the record straight on the FC Barcelona star's reaction.

Lamine Yamal was one of the standouts in FC Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt, not only for his performance on the field but also for his frustrated reaction after being subbed off. Following the final whistle, head coach Hansi Flick addressed the 18-year-old’s response during the UEFA Champions League match.

After conceding the opening goal in the 21st minute, Barcelona had to mount a comeback to avoid jeopardizing their Champions League position, and they did so with a second-half brace from Jules Koundé, who scored with headers in the 50th and 53rd minutes. Yamal provided the cross for the winner, and looking to close out the match with fresh legs, Flick replaced the young winger in the 89th minute with Roony Bardghji, a decision that clearly frustrated Yamal.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Flick was asked about Yamal’s reaction and whether it concerned him. “Next time, he will sit on the bench. That’s not a problem for me,” he joked, before getting serious. “No, it’s Lamine, it’s like this. He received a yellow card; there were about five minutes left; we had to make the substitution, so that’s why.“

The German manager went on to show empathy toward the young star: “I completely understand how he feels, because everyone wants to stay on the pitch. He also thinks he can play 90 minutes or 100 minutes. He’s young, and that’s normal.”

Flick concluded by emphasizing that this type of attitude isn’t a concern at all. “I think this is also a good attitude. For me, there is no problem. I understand him completely, because I was a player before. Maybe I didn’t do what Lamine does, but he is another player at a very high level, so I fully accept it. It’s not a problem,” he said.

A similar moment occurred earlier this season when Yamal showed frustration after being subbed off in the 3-0 loss to Chelsea. Still, even though this reaction came in a match Barcelona was winning, Flick believes these moments are more a reflection of Yamal’s desire to play every minute than a sign of a larger concern.

Yamal set to miss next Champions League game

Despite several matches still to be played on Wednesday, Barcelona moved up to 14th place with 10 points in the Champions League standings after their win over Frankfurt. However, in their push for a top-eight spot to avoid the playoff round, the club will face a major setback with Yamal unavailable.

After being booked in the 56th minute, Yamal will serve a one-match suspension due to yellow-card accumulation. With previous cautions against PSG and Club Brugge, the young winger reached his third of the tournament, ruling him out for Matchday 7 of the UCL, when Barcelona visit Slavia Prague next year on January 21.

In a year where he struggled to earn minutes with the national team, Christian Pulisic has been snubbed from a USMNT award, and now is set to remain tied with legend Landon Donovan, at least until 2026.

Christian Pulisic is enjoying one of his best goalscoring seasons despite struggling to find consistency due to recurring fitness issues. However, despite his strong form in 2025, Pulisic has been snubbed from a major USMNT award and is now set to remain tied at the top alongside legend Landon Donovan until 2026.

Throughout 2025, and in Mauricio Pochettino’s first year in charge of the USMNT, Pulisic surprisingly struggled to earn minutes with the national team. Specifically, the AC Milan star made only six appearances, missing 12 other matches including the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. After registering just one assist in those games, Pulisic has now been left out of consideration for a key individual honor.

The finalists for the 2025 U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year in the End-of-Year Awards have been announced, and Christian Pulisic is not among them. For this year’s edition, fans can vote for goalkeeper Matt Freese, defenders Max Arfsten, Alex Freeman and Chris Richards, and midfielder Malik Tillman.

His limited involvement with the USMNT ultimately kept Pulisic out of the Federation’s shortlist for the top performers of 2025. In fact, this marks the first time he has not been a finalist since 2018, when Zack Steffen, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie composed the list.

The USMNT enjoyed strong moments in 2025 with its run to the Gold Cup final, followed by impressive November wins over Paraguay and Uruguay. However, Pulisic’s absence during many of these key stretches played a major role in his omission from the final list.

Pulisic, tied with Donovan until 2026

Despite being one of the national team’s biggest absences in 2025, Christian Pulisic is still expected to play a crucial role for the USMNT heading into the 2026 World Cup. But in terms of individual accolades, the Milan star will have to wait until next year to break his tie with Landon Donovan.

Pulisic is the USMNT player who has won the U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year award the most times with four, claiming the honor in alternating years: 2017, 2019, 2021 and most recently in 2023. Donovan previously held the record with four wins of his own, in 2003, 2004, 2009 and 2010. Now sharing the throne, it appears only a matter of time before the 27-year-old surpasses the former LA Galaxy icon.

With the eyes set on the 2026 World Cup, Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez addressed Cristiano Ronaldo's leadership and role in the national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo has remained the focal point of the Portugal national team despite leaving European soccer in 2022 to join Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, head coach Roberto Martínez has addressed the striker’s role and leadership within the squad.

After turning 40 in February 2025, questions arose about Ronaldo’s future as his contract was set to expire in June 2026. Still, the forward continues to perform at a high level and helped lead Portugal to the Nations League title, defeating Lamine Yamal’s Spain in the final, setting major expectations for the World Cup.

In an interview with Diario Sport, Martínez was asked how he continues to get the best out of a player who has already become a global legend: “With him, we’re seeing an example that repeats itself with great high-level athletes who enjoy longevity: they adapt to whatever is necessary. We witnessed Cristiano’s emergence in 2004, and we’re aware of everything he has accomplished in his career.”

Highlighting Ronaldo’s ability to adapt, and noting his tally of 25 goals in his last 30 games with Portugal, the Spanish coach reflected on his current significance. “We aren’t talking about a footballer who plays for Portugal because of what he’s done in the past, but one who is very important to the team’s current structure. That ability to adapt is essential for any player’s longevity,” he added.

Since Euro 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo has played in 14 of Portugal’s 16 matches, posting an impressive return of 13 goals, making him the team’s most prolific scorer in that span and throughout Martínez’s tenure. With his red card from the Ireland match officially cleared, the Al Nassr star is now set to take part in what will likely be his final World Cup when Portugal begins its campaign on June 17.

Is Portugal a favorite for the 2026 World Cup?

After Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024, La Roja entered the World Cup cycle as one of the main title contenders. However, Portugal flipped that narrative with its Nations League win last June, immediately placing itself among the teams expected to compete for the trophy.

Martínez, who will be coaching in his first World Cup since taking over Portugal, was asked whether his side should be considered the favorite, and the coach didn’t hesitate: “No. Our objective is to be very aware that we want to improve in every match. If we can manage, as we did in the Nations League, the competitiveness we have within the locker room, then we must demand the highest level from ourselves.“

Despite downplaying Portugal’s status as favorites, Martínez embraced the challenge. “Reaching a World Cup final or not is a difficult, complex path with many variables. But we have to be prepared for everything and be a team that isn’t afraid to dream,” the coach concluded.

After winning back-to-back the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award, Lionel Messi broke the silence and addressed Inter Miami's historic 2025 season.

Lionel Messi has been awarded the Landon Donovan MVP award once again for his performance in the 2025 Major League Soccer season, becoming the first player in league history to win it in consecutive years. After receiving the honor, the Argentine star broke his silence, reflecting on the season and the significance of the moment.

Against the Vancouver Whitecaps, Messi helped Inter Miami achieve one of the club’s biggest goals since its founding in 2018 by lifting the 2025 MLS Cup on Saturday. The trophy effectively confirmed what most fans already expected, Messi’s crowning as the league’s MVP, a recognition the Herons’ captain officially received during the opening of the Messi Cup on Tuesday.

After accepting the award, Messi took the microphone and looked back on the 2025 campaign: “Well, first of all, I’m extremely grateful for this recognition. In fact, it’s always nice to receive individual awards. But of course, I want to share it with my teammates, because I also won the Golden Boot award, and that’s thanks to all of their help.”

As Messi mentioned, with 29 goals in 28 regular-season games, he secured the Golden Boot, then added another six during the postseason. “I’m so happy to have received this award, and to be the first in the history of this competition to win it two years in a row, and I’m extremely grateful for that,” the Argentine concluded, highlighting not only this, but also the performance from last season.

Last season, Messi featured in only 25 matches across all competitions for Inter Miami but still produced 20 goals in MLS play. In 2025, the No. 10 nearly doubled those totals, showing not only his continued adaptation to the league but also that his high level of play is far from declining.

More Messi records in the 2025 MLS season

After setting a high bar in 2024 with numbers comparable to some of the league’s greatest players, Messi elevated his standard again in 2025. Despite dealing with fitness issues early in the season, the forward dominated the league throughout the year, breaking numerous records along the way.

Some of the records Messi set during the 2025 MLS season include:

• Fastest player to score 50 goals in MLS history (53 games).
• Most braces scored in consecutive MLS games (5).
• First player in league history to win six Player of the Matchday honors in consecutive seasons.
• First player in league history with at least five Player of the Month honors in a two-season span.
• Most goal contributions in a single MLS postseason with 15 (6 goals and 9 assists).
• Most games with at least three goal contributions in a single MLS season (9).
• Most games with multiple goals in a single MLS season (10).

With Manchester City being the next rival in the UEFA Champions League, Kylian Mbappé starts to raise concern at Real Madrid due to a minor injury.

Kylian Mbappé has been the lone bright spot for a Real Madrid side still searching for direction under new head coach Xabi Alonso. But with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City looming on the horizon, the French superstar has sparked concern ahead of a crucial UEFA Champions League matchup after suffering a minor injury.

Los Blancos delivered a worrying performance in Sunday’s La Liga loss to Celta Vigo, falling 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu against a mid-table opponent. On top of the disappointing display, Madrid also saw Éder Militão go down with an injury, and now Mbappé’s condition has become another issue for the club to monitor.

Mbappé fractured the ring finger on his left hand during the first half against Celta after an awkward fall. Despite the obvious discomfort, he managed to play the full match, returning for the second half with what appeared to be an unusual bandage wrapped around the injured area.

According to Diario AS, medical tests on Monday confirmed the fracture. Even so, after speaking with club doctors, Mbappé has made it clear he intends to play in Wednesday’s Champions League showdown with Manchester City.

Currently sitting fifth in the table with 12 points, Real Madrid face a massive challenge as they look to secure a direct berth into the round of 16 and avoid the playoff round. It remains to be seen how the injury, and the protective bandage he’ll wear, might impact Mbappé’s performance.

Mbappe poised to make Champions League history

Despite Madrid’s inconsistent form, Mbappé is producing the best scoring stretch of his career. Through five Champions League matches this season, he has recorded an unprecedented scoring rate of nearly two goals per game, racking up nine goals in the 2025-26 campaign.

The competition’s single-season scoring record belongs to Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who netted 17 goals in 13 matches during the club’s 2013–14 title-winning run. With the expanded format providing more matches, Mbappé is on pace to challenge that mark, and could reach an astonishing 27 goals if he maintains his current level.

After his heroic brace against Torino, AC Milan star Christian Pulisic spoke out about his "really dead" status due to a fever.

Christian Pulisic has been decisive in AC Milan’s surge to the top of Serie A after a heroic brace in the 3-2 comeback win over Torino. After earning MVP honors, the USMNT star reflected on playing through what he described as a “really dead” state caused by a fever before the match.

On their visit to Turin, Milan conceded twice for the fourth time this season and had to battle from behind yet again. Adrien Rabiot pulled them back into the game in the 24th minute with a thunderous long-range strike into the top corner, but the equalizer wouldn’t arrive until the second half.

With head coach Massimiliano Allegri suspended, assistant Marco Landucci opted to replace Davide Bartesaghi with Pulisic in the 66th minute, despite the winger being a doubt to even travel due to illness. Just 35 seconds after coming on, Pulisic buried the equalizer from a left-side cross, and in the 77th minute, he met another delivery on the right to complete Milan’s comeback against Torino.

After the match, SkySport Italy interviewed Pulisic, who was awarded the MVP trophy, and when about the fever he had been dealing with, the forward didn’t hold back: “Two days ago I was really dead, today I felt much better. I’m happy I came here to help the team.”

Pulisic’s trip to Turin was a last-minute call, as he had been battling a 102°F (39°C) fever. He not only managed to suit up, but delivered a match-saving performance. “Yesterday we didn’t know if I could play, but this morning I felt much better. I’m happy for the goals, but the important thing was to win the match,” he concluded.

With Matchday 14 in the books, Milan sit atop the 2025-26 Serie A table with 31 points, level with Napoli and one ahead of city rivals Inter. Next Sunday, the Rossoneri host eighth-placed Sassuolo, an ideal chance for an in-form Pulisic to return to the starting XI.

Pulisic struggling to find fitness despite strong form

After being named Serie A Player of the Month in September, expectations were high for Pulisic to deliver his best season in Milan, and in Europe, and his numbers back that up: 9 goals and 2 assists in 12 matches. But with only 550 minutes played (an average of less than 46 per game), questions over his fitness continue to grow.

Pulisic was asked about his lack of consistent playing time despite his excellent output of a goal every 61 minutes. “It’s been a bit strange, I want to find more rhythm. The team is doing very well this year, we think game by game,” the USMNT star stated.

Ahead of the 2026 MLS season, Inter Miami's board revealed the plans the club has to replace stars Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets closed out their professional careers by lifting the 2025 MLS Cup, but their departure leaves a massive void at Inter Miami. Already planning for the 2026 MLS season, the club’s front office has outlined its strategy to replace the veteran Spanish duo.

Lionel Messi’s arrival to the MLS franchise sparked a wave of his former FC Barcelona teammates joining him in Miami. Along with Luis Suárez, both Alba and Busquets became foundational pieces for the Herons, adapting seamlessly to the league’s physical demands and playing at a high level. They were key contributors in every trophy the club has won to date, making their replacements a difficult challenge.

Speaking to reporters before the MLS Cup final, co-owner Jorge Mas reassured fans as he detailed the club’s roadmap for next year: “We’re already preparing for 2026. Obviously, we have the winter window, and two of the best players of this generation are retiring, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. We already have replacements not only in mind, but already verbally agreed. We also have the opportunity, with a DP (Designated Player) slot, to add someone.“

As Mas noted, the exits of Busquets and Alba will free up two DP slots, leaving Lionel Messi as the lone remaining Designated Player. Rodrigo De Paul is expected to take one of the openings, while the other could be used for another marquee signing, whether in midfield or in the attack.

Despite the two major departures, with the opening of Miami Freedom Park next season, Inter Miami intend to continue expanding as a franchise while staying aggressive in pursuit of their next major target. “The club’s goal for 2026 is to win the Champions Cup, and of course I want to go in with a fully loaded starting XI,” Jorge Mas concluded.

Who are Alba and Busquets’ replacements?

Beyond their individual quality, one of the biggest advantages Alba and Busquets brought to Inter Miami was their deep on-field chemistry with Lionel Messi. Their exits mean the club must find players capable, both physically and mentally, of stepping into highly demanding roles.

As Alba’s replacement, reports have linked Inter Miami with both Sergio Reguilón and Philadelphia Union’s Kai Wagner as leading candidates for the left back role. The Spaniard has been a free agent since leaving Tottenham Hotspur, while the German defender (named to the 2025 MLS Best XI) is considered an equally strong option thanks to his league experience, with talks reportedly already underway with his camp.

When it comes to replacing Busquets, the situation is more complicated, as no clear candidate has emerged. His natural understudy in recent seasons had been Federico Redondo, but after his move to Elche in mid-2025, there is no obvious player capable of replicating Busquets’ unique role in the pivot. Still, co-owner Mas remains confident the club will find the right fit to anchor the midfield.

To address a major concern from the 2025 Club World Cup, FIFA will now be introducing a new rule change in the 2026 World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup will be the largest edition in the tournament’s history, but it will also serve as the stage for several new rule changes in global soccer. Adjustments are still being finalized with less than seven months until kickoff, and one of FIFA’s most recent announcements directly targets concerns raised during the 2025 Club World Cup.

The United States has hosted multiple major soccer events, including the 2024 Copa América and the 2025 Club World Cup, all with the aim of preparing for the 2026 World Cup. One of the main worries ahead of the tournament, which kicks off in June of next year, is the extreme heat players will face, a concern that also surfaced during the Club World Cup. Now, FIFA has taken steps to address the issue.

FIFA announced Sunday that the 2026 World Cup will feature a three-minute pause in the middle of each half for a designated “hydration break.” While cooling breaks have been used in recent years, this marks the first time a specific timeline and duration will be formally established, giving players a structured window to recover and fans clearer expectations for when play will resume.

With matches now effectively split into quarters (featuring a 15-minute halftime break and short stoppages around the 22nd and 67th minutes) the measure aims to protect player health and safety during a tournament held at the peak of summer. Coaches will also be allowed to communicate with players during these pauses, creating opportunities for tactical adjustments.

Heat, a major concern during Club World Cup

To suit global audiences, several matches in the 2025 Club World Cup, especially those involving European teams, were scheduled for midday in the United States. While convenient for fans watching from across the Atlantic, the heat created serious concerns among players who struggled to cope with the high temperatures.

One of them was Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández, who required medical attention for heat exhaustion during the match against Fluminense. Before the final, the midfielder voiced his frustration: “The heat is incredible. The other day I got a bit dizzy during a play and had to go down to the ground. Playing in this kind of temperature is very dangerous… Hopefully next year they change the schedule at least, so that it’s more of a show, and football stays beautiful and exciting.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino later addressed the issue directly during a media briefing in New York: “Every criticism we receive is a source for us to study and analyze what can do better. Of course the heat is an issue. Last year, at the Olympic Games in Paris, games during the day, in all sports, took place in very hot conditions. Cooling breaks are very important and we will see what we can do, but we have stadiums with roofs and we will definitely use these stadiums during the day next year.”

With the World Cup spread across three countries, venue conditions will vary, and not all stadiums can guarantee relief from extreme heat. Now, FIFA has taken a major step by formally defining the timing, duration, and purpose of in-match cooling breaks for the first time.

Inter Miami are now working on the squad planning for the 2026 season, and Lionel Messi could receive yet another squad blow as Luis Suárez has began to draw interest from one of his former clubs.

Lionel Messi lifted the 2025 MLS Cup with Inter Miami, but is now preparing for the departures of his two former FC Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who are set to retire from professional soccer. With eyes already on the 2026 season, the Argentine captain may face yet another significant squad blow as star forward Luis Suárez is drawing interest from one of his former clubs.

Ahead of 2026 roster planning, Inter Miami will have several key decisions to make as Alba and Busquets, two of the team’s biggest stars, prepare to leave, and multiple players have contracts expiring in December 2025. One of those is Luis Suárez, whose future in Fort Lauderdale remains uncertain heading into next year.

Speaking to Agencia EFE, Nacional vice president Flavio Perchman said the club is expecting a decision from Suárez in the coming days. “We’re waiting for the next few days to see what he decides about staying in Miami or not, and then we’ll see. We’re on standby,” the executive emphasized.

According to Argentine transfer reporter Germán García Grova, Luis Suárez is seriously evaluating the possibility of returning once again to Uruguayan side Nacional. Adding to the uncertainty, the journalist reported that the striker is leaning toward leaving Inter Miami, potentially closing the chapter that began with his arrival in January 2024.

Nacional is the club where Suárez developed and made his professional debut, and his early impact quickly drew interest from Dutch side FC Groningen, prompting a move to the Eredivisie at just 19 years old. In July 2022, he returned to Nacional for a six-month stint, and now he could be set for a second spell to further cement his legacy in the Uruguayan first division.

Inter Miami, eager to see Suárez continue

Suárez’s future has come into sharper question in recent weeks as his role at Inter Miami has shifted, with head coach Javier Mascherano benching the veteran striker for the final three games of the season. Still, the club’s leadership hopes to keep one of last year’s cornerstones for at least one more season.

Before the MLS Cup against the Vancouver Whitecaps, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas spoke to reporters and addressed Suárez’s future: “Luis deserves to be able to make the decision to leave through the front door and be celebrated as he should be. And if Luis decides to stay one more year with the club, that would be fine. I would love to see Luis continue — obviously the coach and he will have to talk, but the decision is his.“

Mas and the board, and especially Messi, would like to see one of the Argentine’s closest friends in soccer remain alongside him at Inter Miami. However, with Suárez slipping out of contention for the starting striker role and Tadeo Allende’s contract situation still unsettled, the final decision now rests with Suárez.