Although he is only 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has remained one of Barcelona's best players over the last two years, finishing second in the 2025 Ballon d'Or. In light of this, Blaugrana legend Andrés Iniesta did not hesitate to praise the young star, making clear the challenge that lies ahead.

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

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

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

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

Lamine Yamal makes a bold reveal on his future at Barcelona

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

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

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

Contrary to expectations, Marcus Rashford has made a commanding impact under Hansi Flick. Nevertheless, Barcelona would not be entirely certain about exercising his purchase option, as they look to rethink the deal to sign the 28-year-old striker.

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

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

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

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

Not only Rashford: Barcelona eye another major attacking signing

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

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

Álvaro Arbeloa’s arrival seemed set to solve Real Madrid’s problems. However, the situation appears to have changed, as the coach is reportedly facing dressing-room issues with certain players due to ongoing reasons.

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

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

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

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

Real Madrid have reportedly target two major candidates as coach

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

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

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

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

Cristiano Ronaldo's tensions within the Saudi Pro League have reportedly increased after he missed the previous match. However, Al Nassr have allegedly received positive news despite the tension, creating a sense of optimism within the team.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Following Al Ittihad’s controversial contract renewal offer, Karim Benzema decided to leave the club and head to Al Hilal. In light of his arrival, a star striker could be transferred to a European team in the coming hours.

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

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

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

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

Darwin Núñez shifts from promising forward to rotation player

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kanté still chases his arrival to Fenerbahce amid a FIFA complain

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

Al Ittihad secured a young striker as Benzema’s successor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bologna lineup vs. AC Milan

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

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

AC Milan lineup vs. Bologna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Xabi Alonso may face choice between Liverpool and Manchester City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Al Riyadh SC lineup vs. Al Nassr

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

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

Al Nassr lineup vs. Al Riyadh SC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toney draws comparison between Saudi Pro League and Premier League

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benzema’s Al Ittihad tenure defined by ups and downs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bellingham’s frustrating season at Real Madrid raises concern

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marcus Rashford opens up on his tough adaptation to Barcelona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not appointing Michael Carrick may prove costly for Manchester United

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

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

Manchester United may struggle to land a world-class coach in 2026-27

Manchester United have remained closely focused on securing a world-class head coach. In this context, Thomas Tuchel and Luis Enrique have emerged as the club’s supposed top priorities to strengthen the team. However, neither appears entirely certain to join the Red Devils, as both are currently involved in relatively stable projects. With that in mind, United have been forced to explore other profiles that do not fully convince.

With the difficulty of landing Tuchel or Luis Enrique, Roberto De Zerbi has reportedly gained ground as a candidate to take over as the English club’s new head coach. Even so, the Italian is not a proven serial winner either, with Fabrice Hawkins even reporting that he could be dismissed from Olympique Marseille. For that reason, turning to Michael Carrick would not be far-fetched, as there is not a significant difference between him and the Italian.

Although Luka Modric remains one of AC Milan's best players, his future with the team is unclear as his contract has not been renewed. In light of this, the Rossoneri are already eyeing a Manchester City's midfielder ahead the 2026-27 season.

Luka Modrić has established himself as an undisputed starter under Massimiliano Allegri. Despite being 40 years old, the Croatian remains the team’s sixth-most-used player in terms of minutes, playing a key role in AC Milan’s structure. However, his continuity is not fully defined despite interest from the Rossoneri. As a result, the Italian side are turning their attention to a Manchester City midfielder ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri have reportedly been interested in securing Modric’s continuity, as his contract expires at the end of the campaign. Although the veteran hold a unilateral option to extend the Croatian’s deal until 2027, he has yet to make a definitive decision, despite being a key figure for Massimiliano Allegri. In light of this, AC Milan have reportedly turned their attention to a Manchester City midfielder.

According to reports from MilanVibes, later reposted by Calciomercatto, Mateo Kovačić has emerged as an appealing name for AC Milan, with Modric himself having even reached out to him. However, the Rossoneri have only made preliminary inquiries with his entourage, as there are serious concerns about his physical condition, given that he has made just two appearances this season due to ankle and Achilles issues.

Kovačić’s potential arrival would not be entirely incompatible with Modrić’s continuity. Under Zlatko Dalić with Croatia, both midfielders often play together, providing the national team with strong balance. For that reason, the 31-year-old would be a key reinforcement for AC Milan, as he would not only contribute immediately but could also take over from Luka when he eventually decides to leave the club.

Allegri is reportedly chasing reinforcements in AC Milan’s midfield

Since his arrival at AC Milan, Massimiliano Allegri has made it clear that the midfield is one of the most important pillars of his tactical planning. For this reason, the coach not only expects it to provide solidity to the team, but also to contribute offensively. However, the midfielders have failed to stand out in this area, leaving a clear scoring void. As a result, the Italian coach is reportedly looking to make changes in midfield ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Both Leon Goretzka and Mateo Kovačić have emerged as the Rossoneri’s alleged priority targets. The German could arrive as a free agent from Bayern Munich, but reported interest from Atlético Madrid could complicate the move, according to BILD. The Croatian’s case is different, as the Italian side reportedly face no competition for his signing, although doubts remain over his physical condition. Still, his fit within the team is seen as ideal.

While Allegri aims to bring in at least one new midfielder, AC Milan may first need to part ways with Youssouf Fofana, whom they are reportedly open to selling. If the Frenchman’s departure does not materialize, the Rossoneri could face difficulties in accommodating a new signing, not only from a financial standpoint but also due to the limited available midfield spots.

While Rafael Leão remains one of AC Milan’s standout players, he could be tempted to leave the club. The Portuguese star has reportedly become a top target for a Premier League side ahead the 2026-27 season.

Even though Rafael Leão began the 2025–26 season without a guaranteed starting role under coach Massimiliano Allegri, he turned his situation around and became a key player for AC Milan. As the Italian side aims for UEFA Champions League spots, they are also planning key reinforcements. Nonetheless, the Portuguese star might be tempted to leave the Rossoneri, as he has reportedly become a priority target for a Premier League club.

According to a report by Nathan Salt of TEAMtalk, Manchester United are closely monitoring AC Milan’s Rafael Leão. While the Portuguese winger is among the team’s top scorers this season, the Rossoneri would be willing to let him go only for a fee in the €80–85 million range, a figure they have previously quoted to Arsenal. With Patrick Dorgu as their only natural left winger, the arrival of the 26-year-old star would represent a marquee signing for the Red Devils.

With Massimiliano Allegri’s arrival, the Rossoneri underwent major changes in their offense. With this, Rafael Leão’s continuity was in jeopardy, as he would no longer be able to play as a winger. Despite this, the coach decided to stick with the Portuguese, which proved to be a success as he is now the team’s second-highest scorer, netting eight goals and demonstrating his importance.

Rafael Leao’s departure would carry significant weight, as he has been one of the AC Milan’s standout players since 2019. However, coach Allegri consistently favors a two-striker formation, which limits Leao to a second striker role that doesn’t allow him to showcase his talents on the wing. Additionally, the 26-year-old star has repeatedly expressed his desire to play in the Premier League, which makes his departure a real possibility.

Leao’s potential departure could spark AC Milan’s offensive reset

Massimiliano Allegri has managed to raise AC Milan’s competitiveness by relying on a solid defense and a consistent midfield. However, they still face serious issues within the squad, as the defensive line remains quite thin in terms of rotation. In addition, the Rossoneri have been struggling in front of goal, making attacking reinforcements seem inevitable. For that reason, Rafael Leao’s departure would not necessarily be a negative outcome.

Leao may still manage to maintain a good level as a striker, but he has not been able to reach his best form when playing as a left winger. Given this, star’s departure to the Red Devils might not be entirely negative, as it would allow AC Milan to strengthen their attack with a player more suited to Massimiliano Allegri’s needs. Similarly, the Portuguese player would once again have the opportunity to shine as a left winger, returning to his best form.

Despite joining AC Milan with the promise of being the ideal partner for Christian Pulisic, Santiago Gimenez faced a setback when he had to undergo surgery for ankle issues. Now, after several months, the Mexican striker has provided a hopeful update on his recovery.

Santiago Gimenez has experienced a somewhat disappointing stint at the Rossoneri, arriving with high expectations as the ideal attacking partner for Christian Pulisic. However, he has scored only seven goals since joining AC Milan and faced an ankle injury that required surgery, further complicating his tenure. After spending several months on the sidelines, the Mexican striker recently provided an encouraging update on his recovery.

“It was difficult because there were weeks when I was playing in pain. The injury kept getting worse. I needed to stop, but now I just want to focus on the present and the future, not the past. I’m motivated because my recovery is going well and I hope to be able to play again in a few weeks… A month has passed since the surgery, and I can say it was the best decision… I’m looking forward to coming back stronger,” Santiago Gimenez said, via ESPN.

Although Gimenez decided not to give a specific date for his return, his statement that he could be back in a few weeks has given hope to many fans. Unlike at the start of the season, AC Milan are not enjoying their best offensive form. Not only has Pulisic‘s level dropped, but so have Rafael Leao and Christopher Nkunku. For this reason, the Mexican’s return could be a definitive boost for the team.

Santiago Gimenez faces a challenging task upon his return, with AC Milan eager to enhance their offense. Given this, the future of the Mexican player and Nkunku is not entirely clear, as they have failed to shine and could be forced to leave the team. With Niclas Füllkrug impressing and Dusan Vlahovic as the supposed priority target as a free agent, the 24-year-old striker must take advantage of the remaining months to convince the team and gain prominence.

Allegri keeps battling to revive AC Milan’s struggling offense

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Massimiliano Allegri has made it clear that his commitment to offense goes beyond just two forwards, as he expects the midfield to contribute greatly as well. However, the coach has not managed to make his strategy shine, as not only have Rafael Leao and Pulisic seen their performance drop, but Adrien Rabiot, Samuele Ricci, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have also failed to make a difference in terms of scoring.

Amid their evident scoring struggles, Rossoneri fans are calling for changes in the Italian coach’s attacking strategy. With a center forward like Füllkrug available, Allegri might could flank him with Rafael Leão on the left wing and Christian Pulisic on the right. However, AC Milan have largely maintained their current setup, emphasizing midfield consistency and defensive solidity over a more aggressive offensive approach, raising concerns.

With Santiago Gimenez nearing a return from his ankle injury, coach Massimiliano Allegri has several options to enhance the team’s offensive impact. As the 24-year-old aims to secure a spot on the roster, the Mexican forward could play a significant role, seeking additional playing time before next season. However, lingering doubts persist as Allegri’s resistance to altering the offensive strategy may affect the team’s season objectives.

Unlike previous seasons, Real Madrid are not going through their best moment, as Xabi Alonso was even fired. For that reason, team president Florentino Perez has reportedly met with Jude Bellingham and two other players to discuss a growing problem.

Even though Real Madrid made a multimillion-dollar investment, they are facing a highly inconsistent season, marked by a series of poor results. Consequently, they decided to dismiss Xabi Alonso just a few months after he joined. However, the issue seems to extend beyond the former coach, as president Florentino Pérez has reportedly decided to meet with Jude Bellingham and two other players to address a growing concern.

According to Cadena SER, Florentino Perez has decided to take a step forward in the Real Madrid dressing room, demanding more intensity and self-discipline following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso. However, the president has met privately with Jude Bellingham, asking him for more leadership on the field and a change in attitude. In addition, the executive has also met with Arda Guler and Franco Mastantuono, calling their attention to their performance.

Following the arrival of Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid have revitalized their form, conceding just one goal in their last three matches while showcasing exceptional attacking prowess. Additionally, Bellingham, Güler, and Mastantuono have all stepped up, demonstrating the talent that secured their spots with the Spanish side.

While Xabi Alonso’s stint was marked by reports of tensions in the dressing room, Arbeloa’s arrival appears to have put those issues to rest, holding conversations with players such as Trent Alexander-Arnold about their roles within the team. With that, Real Madrid seem to have rediscovered their best version, but there is still a long season ahead, and it will only be considered a success if they manage to win LaLiga or the UEFA Champions League.

Vinicius Jr. and Mbappe lead Real Madrid resurgence under Arbeloa

Unlike in previous seasons, Vinícius Jr. struggled to start strong, falling short of his usual goal-scoring impact. However, Arbeloa’s arrival has revitalized his attacking prominence by reducing his defensive duties, allowing him to showcase his best form—a change we’ve already observed. Consequently, the Brazilian reasserts himself as a project leader alongside Kylian Mbappé, with both players emerging as the team’s most decisive figures.

While Kylian remains Real Madrid’s top scorer with 34 goals, the Brazilian has established himself as the team’s leading assister alongside Arda Güler, with 11 assists, highlighting his adaptability to the Frenchman’s arrival. Additionally, Jude Bellingham has taken on a more midfield central role alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, giving the team a level of stability that has allowed the defensive pairing of Dean Huijsen and Raúl Asencio to shine once again.

Although AC Milan have been among the most competitive teams in Serie A, they continue to have serious problems in defense due to limited rotation. Given this situation, Christian Pulisic could get a new teammate, as the Rossoneri are reportedly eyeing two defenders from the Premier League.

AC Milan have started the 2025-26 season in top form, competing for the Serie A lead and sitting in UEFA Champions League positions. Nevertheless, they are experiencing a dip in form in the offense despite Christian Pulisic‘s solid start, compounded by defensive problems. In light of this, coach Massimiliano Allegri could receive reinforcements, and they reportedly already have two star defenders from the Premier League on their list.

According to Matteo Moretto, AC Milan have been in contact with Nathan Aké’s entourage, exploring a loan move with an option to buy after his playing time Manchester City. However, his arrival is far from straightforward. While he is open to leaving the Citizens, his salary is quite high. In addition, the English club is currently dealing with several defensive injuries, but Aké could still emerge as a market opportunity in the coming days.

While a potential move for Aké has drawn attention, the Rossoneri are also considering another alternative, with Radu Drăgușin joining the list of possible reinforcements. After struggling for minutes at Tottenham Hotspur, AC Milan are seeking to sign him on loan with a purchase option. However, the English side are pushing for that option to be mandatory. If that stance does not change, the Romanian’s arrival could fall through, reports Tuttosport.

The potential arrival of Aké or Drăgușin does not change AC Milan’s plans heading into the 2026–27 season. According to Tuttosport, Mario Gila remain the Rossoneri’s top priority to strengthen their defense. However, the Spaniard would not leave Lazio until the summer of 2026, with the terms of the deal still expected to revolve around a €15–20 million fee, given that his contract runs until 2027.

Massimiliano Allegri keeps battling to revive AC Milan’s offense

At the start of the 2025–26 season, AC Milan shone offensively, led by the fully fit duo of Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão. However, their momentum has since waned, and they are now struggling to make an impact in their attacking play. It’s not just the USMNT star or the Portuguese winger experiencing a dip in form; Christopher Nkunku and Niclas Füllkrug have also failed to deliver consistently, rendering the Massimiliano Allegri’s offense somewhat limited.

Not only AC Milan’s forwards are struggling offensively, but the midfielders as well. Throughout the season, Allegri has made it clear that his idea is for players like Adrien Rabiot and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to step up in terms of goal scoring, but they have shown little in that area. Given these issues, the need to finalize the signing of Dušan Vlahović—reportedly the front office’s top priority—has become more evident than ever.

After several years of failures, Luis Enrique managed to turn Paris Saint-Germain into the best team in the world, winning the long-awaited sextuple. Such an impact caught the attention of Manchester United, but the French club has reportedly made a decision to secure his future.

Despite Paris Saint-Germain coming off multiple disappointments, Luis Enrique’s arrival proved completely transformative. Not only did they win their first UEFA Champions League, but they also claimed the coveted sextuple, marking a historic milestone for the club. Given his impact, the Spaniard drew interest from Manchester United as a potential leader for their project. However, the French side have reportedly already taken a step forward to ensure his continuity.

According to Le Parisien, Paris Saint-Germain have already begun contract talks with Luis Enrique as they look to extend his current deal, which runs through 2027. However, the French club are in no rush, believing there is ample time to finalize the negotiations before the summer of 2026. With this move, the Spanish coach is being positioned as a cornerstone of the club’s sporting project, much like Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

With his future at the French club secure, Manchester United must explore other options, as Luis Enrique has expressed his satisfaction at PSG. While his arrival sparked debate among fans, the Spaniard has successfully given the team a distinct identity. Furthermore, he has bolstered the squad’s commitment to nurturing young talent, which has proven beneficial with players like Senny Mayulu, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Desire Doue making significant impacts.

Luis Enrique has discovered his ideal sporting project at Paris Saint-Germain. Contrary to being a coach with minimal influence on team decisions, the Spaniard’s input is vital in shaping the team’s future. He even played a direct role in the signing of Dro Fernandez from Barcelona Athletic, who arrives as a promising young talent. Moreover, he made the decisive call to release Marco Verratti and Neymar Jr. to mold his vision for the team’s project.

Report: PSG eyes Bayern Munich star to bolster Luis Enrique’s squad

While Paris Saint-Germain remain among the top teams this season, they’ve been suffering defensively. Although William Pacho and Marquinhos shine as regular starters, the absence of either leaves the back line exposed, as neither Lucas Beraldo nor Ilya Zabarnyi have managed to take the necessary step forward. As a result, coach Luis Enrique is targeting a Bayern Munich star as a marquee reinforcement.

Despite Bayern Munich keeping a close eye on renewing Dayot Upamecano’s contract, the Frenchman has yet to accept the offer, leaving all options on the table, reports Florian Plettenberg. Because of this, Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly looking to secure the 27-year-old defender’s arrival on a free transfer, aiming for him to become the leader of the back line alongside Marquinhos.

Following their important victory against Slavia Prague, Barcelona face Copenhagen, looking for a win that will bring them closer to the top eight in the UEFA Champions League. However, the Blaugranas will confront this challenge without two key players: Pedri and Frenkie de Jong.

Barcelona have managed to reverse their poor start in the UEFA Champions League, racking up key victories, such as the most recent one against Slavia Prague. However, the Blaugranas face Copenhagen today, looking for a win that will keep them in the top eight of the standings. Unlike in previous matches, coach Hansi Flick faces a major challenge, as he will be without Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, two pillars of the team.

After the victory against Slavia Prague, Pedri was diagnosed with a right hamstring injury, which will keep him out of action for a month, forcing Hansi Flick to make changes to his starting lineup. Unlike the Spaniard, Frenkie de Jong is in top physical shape but will not be able to play due to accumulated yellow cards. With this, Barcelona lose their starting midfield in the most important game to secure a spot among the top eight in the Champions League.

Even though Frenkie and Pedri’s absence may represent a huge challenge, Barcelona have key stars to step up in their absence. Coach Hansi Flick could turn to Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo to replace them in the midfield. Coupled with them, Fermin Lopez is expected to lead the attacking midfield, showcasing his impressive scoring prowess in the latest games. Moreover, Marc Casadó could also contribute to the game, entering from the bench.

Far from encountering an easy game, Barcelona face a formidable challenge today, needing to secure a victory to remain in the top eight of the standings. To achieve this, they must not only win against Copenhagen but also outscore Chelsea, in case the get a victory in their game, by at least two goals and maintain a clean sheet. In response to these demands, coach Hansi Flick may rely on Raphinha and Lamine Yamal to deliver a strong offensive performance.

Barcelona confirmed lineup vs. Copenhagen

Not only do Barcelona face the absence of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, but they will also be without Andreas Christensen and Gavi. Nonetheless, coach Hansi Flick will rely on Dani Olmo and Fermin to lead the midfield as they did in the recent game against Real Oviedo. Additionally, Robert Lewandowski will also start for a third consecutive game, showcasing his peak form to make a decisive impact on the scoring side.

Considering this, Barcelona will lineup as follows:

⭐️ 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐔𝐏 ⭐️#BarçaCopenhaguen | @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/7IasWpaAAd

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 28, 2026

Copenhagen confirmed lineup vs. Barcelona

Like Barcelona, Copenhagen enter today’s UEFA Champions League match with two key absences: Thomas Delaney and Kenay Myrie. As a result, coach Jacob Neestrup will need to adjust the starting lineup, opting for Lukas Lerager in the midfield. Additionally, Viktor Dadason and Andreas Cornelius are expected to spearhead the offense as they pursue a victory that brings them closer to the playoffs.

With this in mind, Copenhagen will play as follows:

Start-11 mod FC Barcelona#fcklive #UCL #startXI #BARFCK pic.twitter.com/WojWEmj6WE

— F.C. København (@FCKobenhavn) January 28, 2026

Although the Red Devils are already losing Casemiro ahead of the 2026-27 season, he would not be the only player leaving the team. Manchester United have reportedly decided to transfer another midfielder after he failed to make an impact.

Following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, the Red Devils made significant changes to their roster. As a result, Carlos Casemiro announced he will leave as a free agent at the end of the season, despite being a regular starter under Michael Carrick. Consequently, Manchester United are preparing for a major midfield overhaul, with reports suggesting they intend to offload another player before the 2026–27 season.

According to The Athletic, the Red Devils plan to transfer Manuel Ugarte in the summer of 2026, as he hasn’t received sufficient playing time under Erik Ten Hag, Ruben Amorim, or Michael Carrick. Given this situation, Ajax and Galatasaray have shown interest in acquiring him soon. However, Manchester United intend to maintain their current squad until the end of the 2025-26 season and make any necessary adjustments afterward.

While Casemiro’s departure was expected to create a starting lineup opportunity for Manuel Ugarte, the Uruguayan has instead been relegated to a secondary role. Despite his €50 million transfer in 2024, he has logged just 859 minutes. At just 25 years old, Ugarte has already endured underwhelming stints with both Paris Saint-Germain and the Red Devils, remaining far from the commanding impact at Sporting Lisbon.

Casemiro and Ugarte exits could trigger midfield shake-up at Man Utd

Even though Manchester United have yet to decide who will be their head coach for the 2026–27 season, they are already preparing to strengthen their roster and improve competitiveness. Far from viewing the departures of Casemiro and Ugarte as an issue, the Red Devils are targeting a midfield overhaul, giving Kobbie Mainoo a bigger role while looking to sign two midfielders who have been shining in the Premier League.

According to several English outlets, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has emerged as the leading candidate to reinforce Manchester United’s midfield. Not only does his strong defensive impact stand out, but his attacking threat also makes him an ideal fit for the club’s plans. Alongside him, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba has caught the Red Devils’ attention, having proven himself as one of the most complete players in the league.

While the Red Devils may already have their transfer targets clearly defined for the summer of 2026, securing their arrivals will be far from easy. Both Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba would command fees exceeding €100 million. Still, Manchester United are pushing to land both players, aiming to find the consistency needed to raise their level of competitiveness after several years in the shadows.

Even though Harry Kane once faced an uncertain future, the Englishman's destiny now appears settled. Bayern Munich executive Max Eberl revealed significant details about the 32-year-old star's contract renewal, providing a clear path forward.

Harry Kane‘s arrival at the German side drew criticism for his high transfer fee at his age, but he has silenced critics with impressive performances. In the current season, the Englishman has scored 34 goals and four assists in 30 games. His remarkable form has attracted several teams’ attention, but he is reportedly close to deciding his future as a Bayern Munich executive, Max Eberl, commented on the 32-year-old star’s contract renewal.

According to The Independent, Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl admitted that talks have begun over a contract renewal with Harry Kane. While the executive chose not to reveal many details about the Englishman’s future, Florian Plettenberg reported that the German side are set to offer him a contract extension through 2028 or 2029, a move that could allow him to cement his status as a club legend if he maintains his impressive competitive level.

By securing Kane’s continuity, head coach Vincent Kompany manages to keep Bayern Munich among the teams with the strongest chances of winning every title this season. The Englishman doesn’t just make an impact as a goalscorer; he is also crucial to the team’s collective play. With his intelligence on the pitch, he can build up the game and redirect the attack as the team needs. Moreover, he boosts the performances of Luis Díaz and Michael Olise.

Although Harry Kane has been one of the best players in the world for several years, this season he has become one of the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or. Not only does he remain one of the world’s top scorers, but he also leads his team in all competitions, playing a key role in every game. In case Bayern Munich secure the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League titles, the Englishman could win his first Ballon d’Or, overcoming Kylian Mbappe.

Kane’s Bayern Munich face growing defensive uncertainty next season

Following Vincent Kompany’s arrival, Bayern Munich have emerged as one of the best teams of the current season. By imposing a dominant, attack-minded style of play, they’ve managed to establish themselves as favorites across all competitions. However, the German side faces serious defensive doubts heading into next season, as the futures of Kim Min-Jae and Dayot Upamecano remain uncertain.

According to Florian Plettenberg on X, formerly Twitter, Bayern Munich are still interested in renewing Dayot Upamecano’s contract, but the lack of response from the Frenchman has forced the club to take action, setting a deadline for him to decide his future. Meanwhile, Kim Min-Jae could be on his way out, as his performances have yet to fully convince the club and he has drawn interest from Chelsea FC ahead of the 2026–27 season.

With these potential departures, coach Kompany could be forced to sign two world-class center-backs, as only Jonathan Tah and Hiroki Ito would remain at the club. As a result, Bayern Munich would either need to readjust their defensive strategy once again or bring in two defenders capable of contributing to the collective style of play—something that is far from easy to achieve.

Antoine Semenyo’s arrival has been a huge success for Manchester City so far, making an impact in terms of goals and creativity. Given his impressive performances, Omar Marmoush’s future was put into doubt, but Pep Guardiola has reportedly made a definite decision on his departure.

Following their failure to consolidate their leadership in the Premier League, Manchester City have decided to make two signings: Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo. While the Englishman has only played in one game, the Ghanaian has been with the team longer, excelling in both scoring and creativity. After his breakthrough, questions arose about Omar Marmoush’s future, but Pep Guardiola has reportedly made a definitive decision regarding the Egyptian star.

Even though Antoine Semenyo has just joined Manchester City, he has already proven to be a game-changing player. In only four matches with the Citizens, the 26-year-old winger has scored three goals and contributed one assist. In light of this breakout, Marmoush’s future came into question, but Pep Guardiola has reportedly made up his mind on the Egyptian.

According to several media outlets, Manchester City may be open to allowing Omar Marmoush to leave the team, despite his joining just a year ago. Additionally, Fenerbahce are reportedly prepared to offer €30 million to secure his transfer, promising the 26-year-old more playing time. However, journalist Ismael Mahmoud has contradicted this report, asserting that the Egyptian striker is determined to remain with the Citizens, as Pep Guardiola fully trusts him.

While Omar Marmoush is not an undisputed starter for Manchester City, he has shown a brilliant ability to step up when replacing Erling Haaland. Moreover, he has proven capable of influencing the team’s collective play, offering qualities the Norwegian does not usually provide and giving Guardiola more tactical options. However, the Egyptian still needs to take a step forward in front of goal, as his recent scoring output has been quite disappointing.

Marmoush proves compatibility alongside Haaland in Man City lineup

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Omar Marmoush has played as a center forward, serving as Erling Haaland’s backup. However, the Egyptian has proven to be a highly versatile player, as he has also featured at times as a left winger for Manchester City, shining alongside the Norwegian star. Because of this, the 26-year-old striker could not only provide competition for the Citizens’ main star but also become one of his best on-field partners.

Marmoush’s ability to seamlessly transition between roles as an attacking midfielder, left winger, and striker presents a strategic advantage for Pep Guardiola. His intelligent playmaking gives the manager several options when crafting his lineup. Still, the Egyptian may not be a guaranteed starter, with Jérémy Doku, Rayan Cherki, and Haaland ahead of him in the pecking order. That said, this does not diminish his importance.

Although Liverpool remain focused on strengthening their defense ahead of next season, Alisson Becker's future is not entirely certain as he has not renewed his contract. In light of this, Premier League legend Brad Friedel sends a strong message to the Reds regarding the Brazilian's future.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Liverpool have had several problems with their roster, such as the future of Mohamed Salah and Ibrahima Konate and the poor performance of the defensive line. However, the future of Alisson Becker also remains uncertain as he has not yet renewed his contract. In light of this, a former Premier League player has decided to send a strong message to the Reds regarding the Brazilian’s future.

Alisson Becker has remained one of Liverpool’s most important players, being an undisputed starter since his arrival in 2018. Not only has he won two Premier League titles, but he has also lifted a UEFA Champions League, establishing himself as a club legend. However, the Brazilian’s contract expires in 2027 and no progress toward a renewal has yet been reported. In light of this, Brad Friedel issued a warning to the Reds.

“You have to look at the greats, your goalkeeping greats, and what happened for a short time while teams try and figure out how to replace them. It usually takes a while… I think Alisson is the best. I like all parts of his game. I think he doesn’t have a true weakness… I have no idea what is going on with his contract, but I would do everything I possibly could to keep him there for as long as possible,” Friedel said, via GOAL.

Even though he is already 33 years old, Alisson consistently demonstrates top form, leading the team through evident challenges. Coach Arne Slot recently praised the Brazilian’s performance: “Alisson had a great save (against Olympique Marseille). Two in the first half and another in the second half. We know we have one of the best goalkeepers in the world,” he said, as reported by Bein Sports. Therefore, the Brazilian’s renewal may not be ruled out.

Liverpool’s recent transfer moves may hint Alisson’s future

After years of success, Liverpool have decided to make drastic changes to their squad, committing to multimillion-pound investments. However, neither Mohamed Salah nor Virgil van Dijk currently has a replacement on the bench, keeping them as key players for the team. While Alisson remains in top form and is undisputed in the lineup, the Reds already have a clear successor waiting in the wings, raising doubts about his future renewal.

In the 2024–25 season, Liverpool decided to sign Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia CF, paying €30 million. However, he remained on loan with the Spanish side before joining the club in the 2025–26 season, where he currently serves as Alisson’s backup. Even so, the 25-year-old is expected to become the team’s starter once the Brazilian’s contract expires in 2027. As a result, the Georgian has has had time to adapt to the squad, already logging 934 minutes.

With Mamardashvili on the bench, the Reds could opt not to renew Alisson Becker’s contract, betting on a generational change despite the Brazilian’s strong performances. If the club does choose to extend the 33-year-old’s deal, the Georgian could leave the team permanently due to his lack of playing time—something that does not appear to align with the idea behind paying a hefty fee for his services back in 2024.

Despite being the team's best player, Bruno Fernandes' future has been up in the air throughout the season. In response, Manchester United reportedly met with him to discuss his future. Now, the 31-year-old has allegedly set a condition for staying with the Red Devils.

Bruno Fernandes has managed to remain the Red Devil’s standout player despite the team enduring some of its poorest seasons. However, the Portuguese star’s future at Manchester United has been questioned throughout the campaign. In response, the club reportedly met with the player to discuss his continuity. Now, the 31-year-old star has supposedly laid out a key requirement to remain on the roster.

According to The Mirror, Bruno Fernandes has asked Manchester United for a salary increase, aiming to earn £400,000 per week. With this deal, the 31-year-old star would become the highest-paid player on the team and would remain its captain and leading figure. These wage demands come amid rumors of dissatisfaction with the club’s management of the sporting project, as they have failed to establish themselves as one of the top teams.

In case they decide not to meet his salary demands, Bruno Fernandes has several options for continuing his professional career. Both Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr and two other teams would be willing to offer him better conditions to continue his professional career. For this reason, he could leave Manchester United, because although he has a contract until 2027, he allegedly has a £57 million release clause (around $77 million) for clubs outside England.

Far from being a settled decision, Bruno Fernandes supposedly wants to wait until the end of the season to make a final call. In doing so, he could base his choice on who is appointed as Manchester United’s head coach. While Michael Carrick has been doing a brilliant job, he is only an interim manager. For that reason, the Portuguese star remains very cautious about his future, even though a lucrative salary offer could ultimately put his doubts to rest.

Report: Manchester United plan to rebuild midfield

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Bruno Fernandes’ future, Manchester United intend to retain him, as he is under contract until 2027, with an option to extend through 2028. Casemiro’s departure signals a clear midfield transformation, with the club aiming to infuse youthful talent to chart a new course. Yet, the Red Devils plan to build around the 31-year-old star, who continues to lead the team.

According to several English outlets, Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson are the Red Devils’ top priorities ahead of the 2026–27 season. Moreover, they are also looking to renew Kobbie Mainoo, whom they view as a cornerstone of the team’s future. While Mason Mount has improved his performances, it is Bruno they see as the attacking midfielder for next season. For that reason, a departure of the Portuguese star would force United to sign a new asset.

Although AC Milan have managed to remain quite competitive this season with Christian Pulisic leading the team, they remain open to making changes, targeting a Bayern Munich star. However, Atlético Madrid are reportedly leading the race to sign him due to a compelling reason.

Led by Christian Pulisic, AC Milan have asserted themselves as one of Serie A’s elite teams, consistently competing at the top of the standings. Nevertheless, they remain keen on strengthening their roster for the 2026–27 season, with their sights set on a star from Bayern Munich. However, Atlético Madrid reportedly lead the race for his signature, thanks to a compelling advantage.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, Leon Goretzka has emerged as one of AC Milan’s transfer targets for the following campaign as a free agent. According to Daniele Longo, via X (formerly Twitter), the Rossoneri have contacted the German player’s representation agency and believe his salary demands are within their reach. However, they seem to be losing the race for his signing to Atlético Madrid.

Following Conor Gallagher’s move to Tottenham Hotspur, Atlético Madrid have prioritized signing a midfielder, with Goretzka at the top of their list. Sports director Mateu Alemany was even spotted boarding a flight to Munich, illustrating the club’s serious intent to land him. Additionally, the Spanish side enjoys a significant advantage as it aims to bring Goretzka in immediately, while the Rossoneri prefer to wait and sign him as a free agent, according to BILD.

AC Milan seem to have lost the lead in securing Goretzka’s arrival, but his arrival is not entirely ruled out. As he is about to leave as a free agent, the German player is in control of his future, and Daniele Longo reports that he is very excited about the Rossoneri’s sporting project. With financial and salary issues no longer a problem, the 30-year-old star could prioritize a key role in the team, something that the Italian side would guarantee.

Not only Goretzka: AC Milan reportedly eye two more players for next season

With the potential departure of Luka Modrić as a free agent and the possible sale of Youssouf Fofana, AC Milan remain open to strengthening their midfield, targeting Leon Goretzka as a key free-agent addition for the 2026–27 season. However, the Rossoneri also appear to have two other players as primary targets, underscoring their intent to improve the team’s competitiveness in the UEFA Champions League.

According to Italian media reports, the Rossoneri are targeting Dusan Vlahovic to strengthen the team’s attack, with the player potentially arriving as a free agent from Juventus. However, securing his signing is far from straightforward, as they are reportedly competing with Barcelona, which also considers him a primary target. Despite this, AC Milan are said to remain in contact with the player’s camp, though no agreement has been reached yet.

Alongside Vlahovic, AC Milan aim to reinforce their defensive line with Mario Gila. While his signing is not simple, the player’s contract runs until 2027, which may facilitate negotiations. Lazio would reportedly be willing to let him go for €20 million, but the Rossoneri are looking to lower the price to €15 million, according to Daniele Longo. Additionally, coach Allegri’s team is seeking to finalize his arrival in the coming months, ensuring he joins for the 2026–27 season.