Amid speculation, tension, and a title race balanced on a knife-edge, Al-Nassr has quietly completed a move that could reshape the short-term picture, and possibly the long-term one too.

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

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

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

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

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

Why Al-Hamdan matters now amid Ronaldo’s saga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cristiano Ronaldo’s season in Saudi Arabia was supposed to be defined by records, goals, and silverware. Instead, as the Saudi Pro League reaches a critical phase, frustration has begun to overshadow brilliance.

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

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

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

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

Stark contrast with a title rival

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

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

Another absence takes its toll

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

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

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

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

What initially looked like momentum has gradually turned into uncertainty, and what felt like a dream pre-World Cup season now carries unanswered questions — questions that neither club nor nation can afford to ignore.

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

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

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

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

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

Career shaped by stops and starts

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

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

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

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

What it means for Milan and the USMNT

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

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

As Milan navigates a delicate phase of the season and the 2026 World Cup looms ever closer, the American’s form, fitness, and rhythm have become inseparable topics.

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

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

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

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

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

Rare opportunity: 20 days to reset

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

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

The World Cup factor looms larger

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

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

In a story that has drawn attention across Europe, Jean-Philippe Mateta's highly anticipated transfer to Milan has hit unexpected turbulence.

In a story that has drawn attention across Europe, Jean-Philippe Mateta’s highly anticipated transfer to Milan has hit unexpected turbulence. The Premier League striker, who had been linked with a move that could have boosted his chances ahead of the 2026 World Cup, found himself caught in a stalemate that has left both Christian Pulisic‘s Milan and Premier League’s Crystal Palace scrambling.

The drama unfolded not on the pitch, but behind closed doors, as Milan attempted to secure the services of a forward who has scored 38 goals in the last two and a half Premier League seasons. Mateta’s move was seen as a potential game-changer for the Rossoneri, but a series of logistical hurdles has slowed progress, leaving fans and pundits alike guessing whether he will don the red and black shirt this season.

Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport reveal that Milan made overnight progress on a $36 million transfer fee with Crystal Palace, aiming to bring the French striker to Italy immediately rather than waiting for the summer window. The move, if completed, could dramatically alter the Scudetto race, giving the team a physical and prolific presence upfront to challenge Inter.

Milan’s interest in Mateta dates back to last May, when initial talks were hampered by a high valuation from the Eagles. With Juventus and Nottingham Forest now joining the pursuit, Christian Pulisic’s side acted quickly this month to secure the striker’s agreement. The Frenchman reportedly has agreed to personal terms worth $3.6-$4.1 million net per season plus bonuses, a contract running until 2030.

Obstacles stand in the way

Despite the progress, the deal has not yet been finalized. Crystal Palace must first secure a replacement striker before allowing Mateta to leave, with Norwegian forward Jorgen Strand Larsen, a former Milan youth player, the leading candidate. Only once this move is complete can Mateta travel to San Siro.

Niclas Fullkrug, already signed in January to reinforce the attack, has so far struggled to completely solve the Rossoneri’s goalscoring issues. Adding Mateta would give Massimiliano Allegri a true striker and a legitimate Serie A title contender.

Mateta’s frustration grows

While the negotiations play out, the player’s frustration is increasingly visible. The French striker took to Instagram, posting only an angry-face emoji, signaling his displeasure at the stalled transfer. He has also unfollowed Crystal Palace on social media, with his bio reading: “Ils comprendront un jour” — “They will understand one day.”

Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed that Mateta will not be part of the squad for the upcoming fixtures. Thus, Milan continues to push for an immediate January transfer, hoping Palace will give the green light once a replacement is secured. The next few hours and days could prove decisive, with Mateta’s eagerness to move to Italy clear, as per Sky Italia. If completed, the move would not only strengthen the Serie A giant’s attack but also offer Mateta a platform to showcase his talent ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Despite scoring regularly and remaining a central figure in the team’s attack, Ronaldo faced an unexpected setback: he missed out on the Saudi Pro League Player of the Month award, while the Golden Boot race took an intriguing twist.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s January 2026 has been, by most attacking metrics, highly productive. The Al-Nassr captain has logged heavy minutes, consistently featured in the starting lineup, and played a visible leadership role as his club navigated a demanding Saudi Pro League schedule. Yet, despite scoring regularly and remaining a central figure in the team’s attack, Ronaldo faced an unexpected setback: he missed out on the Saudi Pro League Player of the Month award, while the Golden Boot race took an intriguing twist.

Across January, Ronaldo appeared almost every three to four days, playing seven matches and scoring four goals, often staying on the pitch for the full 90 minutes. Match ratings reflected his steady contributions, generally hovering in the high-6 to low-7 range, peaking at 7.2 in some fixtures. These numbers underscored his reliability but also highlighted the absence of game-changing, headline-grabbing performances that often sway award voters.

He contributed directly to several goals and constantly occupied defenders, creating space for his teammates. However, it appears that he was not overwhelmingly decisive in the way voters tend to remember when awards are decided. For a league increasingly valuing both efficiency and game-defining moments, consistency alone was no longer enough to secure top individual honors.

What’s more, Al-Nassr’s performance in January was mixed. The month began with a run of defeats, which undermined the narrative of dominance and hurt the Portuguese’s candidacy for Player of the Month. Although the team recovered with important wins later, early losses weighed heavily in the eyes of voters. In the Saudi Pro League, individual recognition is often intertwined with team success, meaning that even stellar personal contributions can be overshadowed by inconsistent collective results.

Who won the SPL Player of the Month award?

While Ronaldo demonstrated consistency, another player produced moments impossible to ignore. Ivan Toney, leading the line for Al-Ahli, turned January into a statement month. The English forward scored 12 goals in seven matches, including two hat-tricks, helping his team climb the Saudi Pro League standings and edging past Ronaldo in the Golden Boot race.

Toney started the year with a brace against Al-Nassr, then scored doubles against Al-Taawoun, goals against Al-Okhdood and Al-Kholood, and finished the month with two hat-tricks against Al-Khaleej and Al-Ettifaq. “I feel like I’m doing well right now and that continuing to score goals [here in Saudi] will give me a stronger chance to get to what could be my only World Cup,” Toney said, highlighting his ambition to remain in contention for England’s squad.

Toney’s performances also earned him five ALJ Man of the Match awards in January, solidifying his claim as the Saudi League Player of the Month, the first Englishman to receive the honor and the first Al-Ahli player to win it since April 2025. His 18-goal total now puts him ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Qadsiah’s Julian Quinones (both at 17).

Still elite, still relevant

Missing out on the award does not diminish Ronaldo’s elite status. At 41, he remains one of the most reliable forwards in the Saudi Pro League, capable of playing full matches and maintaining standards that younger strikers often struggle to match. January 2026 reflected Ronaldo’s current phase: excellence without excess, leadership without individual accolades.

Meanwhile, Toney’s rise signals the intense competition at the top of the scoring charts. He has attracted attention from European clubs, including Juventus, but remains focused on maintaining form in Saudi Arabia to secure a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

Even after Lionel Messi’s departure, moments on the pitch still seemed tethered to what once was; patterns that refused to change, records that stood untouched, and expectations shaped by a standard no one else had set.

For years, Lionel Messi’s presence lingered over Barcelona in ways that went far beyond memories or nostalgia. Even after his departure, moments on the pitch still seemed tethered to what once was; patterns that refused to change, records that stood untouched, and expectations shaped by a standard no one else had set. As the club continues its evolution, new faces like Marcus Rashford have arrived alongside established stars such as Robert Lewandowski and emerging talents like Lamine Yamal. Yet, despite the freshness of the project, certain barriers remained, quiet reminders of Messi’s era that felt impossible to overcome. On a tense European night, however, something shifted.

Barcelona’s final Champions League league-phase match against Copenhagen unfolded as a slow-burning statement rather than an immediate spectacle. The first half was cautious and measured, but after the break, the home side asserted control. Goals from Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha transformed the contest, turning uncertainty into dominance.

With qualification already within reach, the atmosphere inside Camp Nou changed when Marcus Rashford was introduced from the bench with less than 20 minutes remaining. The England international, still adjusting to life at the club, played with a sharp sense of purpose — direct, confident, and decisive. Then, in the 85th minute, Rashford delivered the final blow, sealing a 4-1 victory and confirming progression to the round of 16. The celebration was immediate, but the significance of the moment went far deeper than a routine goal.

For the first time since Lionel Messi’s departure in 2021, Barcelona had scored a direct free-kick in the Champions League. The last player to achieve the feat was Messi himself, on May 1, 2019, when he dismantled Liverpool with a devastating set-piece in the semi-final. More than five years — over 2,000 days — had passed without another Barcelona player replicating it on Europe’s biggest stage.

Drought that defined the post-Messi years

Since Messi’s exit, free-kicks had become a source of frustration for Barcelona supporters. Efforts regularly clipped the wall, drifted wide, or sailed harmlessly over the crossbar. In the Champions League alone, the club had taken more than 50 direct free-kicks without scoring before Rashford stepped up.

Across all competitions, the numbers were scarcely better. Barcelona had managed just three free-kick goals in total, with the most recent coming from Ferran Torres in September 2023. In Europe, however, the drought was absolute — until now. Rashford’s goal did more than end a statistic. It felt like closure.

The records that Messi still holds at Barcelona

That sense of closure inevitably leads to a broader truth: even years after his departure, Lionel Messi still owns the majority of Barcelona’s most important records — and they remain daunting landmarks for the current generation.

Most appearances in official competitions

Messi played 778 official games for Barcelona — more than anyone else in club history. 

Most goals in Barcelona history (all competitions)

With 672 goals for the club, he remains Barcelona’s all-time top scorer — far ahead of the next player on the list. 

Most Barcelona goals in La Liga

Messi scored 474 La Liga goals for Barça, the highest tally ever for a player at the club. 

Most trophies won as a Barcelona player

He won more major honours with Barcelona than any other player in the club’s history. 

Most appearances in La Liga for Barcelona

Messi holds the all-time record for most league matches played for Barca. 

Beyond the headline records above, the Argentine also leads or holds many other longstanding Blaugrana marks that are unlikely to be beaten soon:

• Most assists in official competitions for Barcelona. 
• Most goals scored in Barcelona’s history in European and international club competitions. 
• Most hat-tricks scored for the club in official matches (he had more than any other Barcelona player). 
• Most goals in Copa del Rey finals for Barcelona. 
• Most matches won with the club (as a player in victories). 
• Unique scoring feats such as being the youngest Barcelona player to reach 100/200 goals.

Who is chasing Messi’s long-standing records?

Among the current squad, Robert Lewandowski is the most prolific scorer of the post-Messi era, surpassing the 100-goal mark for the club. Yet even he sits hundreds of goals away from Messi’s totals. The gap is not symbolic — it is structural.

Lamine Yamal, still only at the beginning of his career, is the only player whose age and creative output place him anywhere near long-term discussions about assists or influence. Even then, the scale of Messi’s numbers makes comparisons almost theoretical.

Marcus Rashford’s free-kick did not put him on track to break Messi’s records — but it placed him in a unique historical footnote. He accomplished something that no Barcelona player had managed in Europe for half a decade.

While one signature has already been secured, another, equally symbolic, remains unresolved, hovering in the background as Milan carefully plans its next move.

A new chapter is quietly taking shape at Milan, and it begins with stability. With Mike Maignan committing his long-term future to the club and Christian Pulisic continuing to define matches with decisive moments, the Rossoneri are laying the foundations of a renewal era designed to protect their most valuable pillars. While one signature has already been secured, another, equally symbolic, remains unresolved, hovering in the background as Milan carefully plans its next move.

Behind the scenes at Casa Milan, the message is clear: this is no longer a club willing to gamble with time. Lessons from the past have been learned, and the priority now is continuity. Thus, the Rossoneri have officially locked down their captain. In a statement released by the club, they confirmed that Mike Maignan has signed a new contract running until June 2031, ending months of uncertainty and speculation surrounding his future.

“AC Milan is pleased to announce the renewal of Mike Maignan’s contract until June 30, 2031,” the club said in its official announcement. “Arriving in the Rossoneri in the summer of 2021, Mike immediately established himself as one of the reference points of the group, distinguishing himself for leadership, reliability and spirit of sacrifice, until he became Captain and central figure of the team.”

Since arriving from Lille in 2021 to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma, Maignan has evolved into far more than a goalkeeper. He has become a leader, a reference point, and a symbol of Milan’s modern identity. Across 188 appearances, the French international played a decisive role in the 2021-22 Scudetto, later lifting the Italian Super Cup, while also earning the award for Serie A’s best goalkeeper in his debut season.

From uncertainty to commitment

Just months ago, Maignan’s renewal appeared unlikely. Injuries, dips in form, and strained communication with the club hierarchy had fueled rumors of a potential exit, with Chelsea among the clubs monitoring his situation.

Italian media described the negotiations as tense throughout the summer. However, a turning point arrived toward the end of December, when Gazzetta dello Sport reported renewed optimism following improved performances and a significantly enhanced contract offer.

According to reports, Milan has nearly doubled Maignan’s salary to around $6 million net per season, with performance bonuses potentially adding another $2.4 million. Crucially, the deal includes a club-controlled option for an additional year, giving the club full authority to extend the contract to 2031 without requiring player approval. This structure reflects a shift in policy: the Serie A giant now wants control, not uncertainty.

Renewal strategy takes shape with focus on Pulisic

Maignan’s signature is not an isolated event. It is the opening move in a broader renewal plan. The club’s management has scheduled multiple meetings with agents to discuss extensions for key figures. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Fikayo Tomori, and Strahinja Pavlovic are all under consideration. At the same time, Luka Modric’s future remains entirely in his own hands. Yet one name towers above the rest, as attention inevitably turns to Christian Pulisic.

The American has become the Rossoneri’s most decisive attacking weapon, producing goals, assists, and match-turning moments with relentless consistency. Despite illness, minor setbacks, and rotation, his output has been extraordinary: nine goals in nine appearances across competitions, scoring once every 61 minutes.

His current contract runs until June 2027, with a club option to extend until 2028. However, Milan is determined not to repeat past mistakes by waiting too long. According to Corriere della Sera, talks are expected to restart in the spring, once the season’s immediate pressures subside. Milan intends to extend Pulisic’s deal beyond 2027, targeting a new agreement to secure him through the next cycle of the project.

Cristiano Ronaldo may soon be at the center of yet another surprising transfer storyline as Al-Nassr monitors a resurgent South American star whose European dream once unraveled far too early.

Cristiano Ronaldo may soon be at the center of yet another surprising transfer storyline as Al-Nassr monitors a resurgent South American star whose European dream once unraveled far too early. While Barcelona, the former club of Lionel Messi, continues to navigate financial constraints, an unexpected opportunity for a lucrative windfall is quietly emerging. What makes the story even more intriguing is that the player in question was once written off as a failed experiment in Europe, only to reinvent himself spectacularly thousands of miles away.

As the Saudi Pro League intensifies its global recruitment strategy, Al-Nassr is scanning the market for attacking talent capable of making an immediate impact. And somewhere between redemption, reinvention, and raw potential, one former Barcelona forward has forced his name back into elite conversations.

Not long ago, this forward’s time in Europe appeared over before it had properly begun. Signed with high expectations, his brief stint at Camp Nou failed to ignite, and a subsequent loan spell did little to change the narrative. When he returned to Brazil, many viewed it as a step backward. Instead, it became the turning point of his career.

Once dubbed one of Brazil’s brightest prospects, Vitor Roque has rediscovered the aggressive, vertical edge that originally drew European giants to him. Under Abel Ferreira at Palmeiras, he has matured into a decisive forward rather than a developmental project. His performances have earned him renewed attention from the Brazil national team, with the 2026 World Cup looming and Carlo Ancelotti reportedly monitoring his progress closely.

Since joining Palmeiras in a deal worth $30 million, Brazilian striker has flourished. Across 59 competitive matches, he has delivered 20 goals and five assists, transforming himself into the club’s attacking reference point. Confidence, continuity, and trust replaced uncertainty, and the results have been explosive. According to the CIES Football Observatory, his market value has now surged to nearly $99 million, more than triple the Brazilian side’s initial investment. That meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed.

Deco reveals why Vitor Roque failed at Barcelona

Barcelona sporting director Deco has spoken candidly about why the move never worked, stressing that the club’s decision was never about a lack of quality. “From a quality standpoint, I don’t think we made a mistake,” he explained. “Our plan was to sign a future successor to Robert Lewandowski.”

The problem, according to Deco, was timing and context. “He moved to a new country and joined a big club, facing a lot of pressure, while not getting enough playing time to adapt properly,” he added. A loan move was meant to stabilize the situation, but that too fell short. “His loan didn’t go as hoped, and then we received an offer from Palmeiras. We decided this was the best solution for everyone.” Barcelona recovered its investment, and may soon profit again.

Why Al-Nassr is watching closely

According to Portuguese journalist Pablo Oliveira, Al-Nassr has emerged as a serious admirer of Roque, viewing him as a long-term attacking asset rather than a short-term gamble. The Saudi club’s interest aligns perfectly with its strategy: acquire players entering or approaching their prime, elevate the league’s sporting level, and create resale value — all while competing for domestic and continental titles.

For Roque, the appeal is different. Saudi Arabia offers stability, visibility, and a chance to continue growing without the relentless pressure that accompanied his early European move. Although Barca has no plans to bring the striker back, it is closely watching his next move, and for a good reason. When Palmeiras signed him, the Catalans smartly included a 20% sell-on clause in the deal. That clause could soon prove invaluable.

While Vinicius continues to dominate headlines as a dream target for Saudi soccer, attention is quietly shifting toward another familiar face from Ronaldo’s storied past.

Cristiano Ronaldo is once again shaping the direction of Al-Nassr as the Saudi Pro League prepares for another transformational summer. With sweeping changes expected across the league, the Portuguese icon finds himself at the heart of ambitious recruitment plans that could redefine the competitive balance next season. While Vinicius continues to dominate headlines as a dream target for Saudi soccer, attention is quietly shifting toward another familiar face from Ronaldo’s storied past.

As the European season approaches its conclusion, Saudi Pro league clubs are positioning themselves for a bold summer offensive. Contracts are expiring, strategies are evolving, and global stars are once again being tempted by a league determined to cement itself among soccer’s elite.

Although the winter window remains open, the biggest moves are being deliberately held back. According to The Telegraph, Saudi soccer officials are planning their most aggressive recruitment drive yet once Europe’s campaigns conclude.

The logic is simple: replace outgoing contracts with world-class names, raise the league’s international profile, and sustain its rapid sporting evolution. Among the names repeatedly linked are Vinicius Junior, Robert Lewandowski, Ousmane Dembele, and Mohamed Salah, superstars under contracts whose transfers would be extraordinarily complex, but financially achievable.

Salah’s symbolic status across the Arab world makes him a recurring target, while Vinicius represents the ultimate statement signing. Yet behind the headlines, Saudi decision-makers are also pursuing more attainable, strategically crucial reinforcements.

Familiar midfield general enters the frame

While speculation around Vinicius continues, reports indicate that Cristiano Ronaldo is actively encouraging Al-Nassr to pursue a different former Real Madrid teammate — one whose experience, leadership, and winning pedigree could immediately elevate the squad. That mystery name is Casemiro.

The Brazilian midfielder has confirmed he will leave Manchester United at the end of the season after the club declined to extend his contract. At 33 years old, Casemiro will become a free agent in June, instantly making him one of the most attractive veterans on the global market. According to LiveScore, Al-Nassr has already held initial talks with the Brazilian’s representatives, with Ronaldo himself believed to be a driving force behind the potential reunion.

Why Casemiro makes sense for Al-Nassr

Casemiro’s profile fits perfectly into Al-Nassr’s current needs. The club is searching for midfield stability, leadership, and big-game composure — qualities the Brazilian has displayed throughout a glittering career.

He and Ronaldo spent five seasons together at Real Madrid, winning three Champions League titles, and briefly reunited at Manchester United, where Casemiro famously assisted Ronaldo’s 700th club goal. Despite interest from MLS and Brazil, Saudi Arabia offers something unique: elite competition, financial security, and the chance to remain at the highest level alongside Ronaldo, who continues to defy age.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence continues to ripple through the Saudi league, attracting ambitious young talents eager to test themselves alongside one of soccer’s greatest icons.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence continues to ripple through the Saudi league, attracting ambitious young talents eager to test themselves alongside one of soccer’s greatest icons. This winter, that gravitational pull brought a highly rated Iraqi midfielder to Al-Nassr, marking one of the most symbolic moves of the season for the club. For Ronaldo, it meant welcoming another new teammate into a dressing room already packed with experience and expectation. For the player himself, it was the fulfilment of a dream years in the making, though one that has quickly taken an unexpected turn.

Al-Nassr’s winter activity has been notably restrained, making this signing stand out even more. As the club’s only confirmed arrival of 2026, the move carried weight beyond squad depth, signaling an intent to blend regional talent with global stardom. Yet just days after officially joining, early signs suggest the road ahead may not be as smooth as first imagined.

The Knight of Nadj moved swiftly to secure Hayder Abdulkareem from the Iraqi side, Al-Zawraa, after intensive negotiations. The deal saw the Saudi Pro League side pay approximately $500,000, with Al-Zawraa retaining a 15% sell-on clause — a strong indication of how highly the Iraqi club values its academy product. Abdulkareem signed a two-and-a-half-year contract running until June 2026, with an option for an additional year in the club’s favor.

From a personal standpoint, the move represented a major leap. His reported annual salary of around $450,000 reflects both Al-Nassr’s belief in his potential and the scale of opportunity now in front of him.

Jorge Jesus’ personal endorsement

Apparently, one of the defining factors behind the transfer was head coach Jorge Jesus, who personally pushed for the signing after monitoring Abdulkareem in continental competition. The Portuguese coach was particularly impressed by the midfielder’s composure and tactical awareness during the AFC Champions League 2 encounters.

Multiple Saudi reports confirmed that the signing was made on Jesus’ direct recommendation, underlining the expectations placed on the 21-year-old as he integrates into a squad featuring seasoned internationals — including Cristiano Ronaldo.

The blow revealed

However, just three days after joining — and despite already training with the squad — the optimism has tempered. Abdulkareem was notably excluded from the matchday squad against Al-Kholood, raising immediate questions.

According to former Al-Nassr legal director and club insider Saad Al-Subaie, the situation is now clearer — and more restrictive than many expected. The insider revealed that Abdulkareem will only feature in the AFC Champions League 2 and selected league matches, rather than being a regular domestic option. The reason is tactical. Angelo remains Jorge Jesus’ first-choice midfielder, with Abdulkareem viewed as a developmental option rather than an immediate starter.

Further context adds another layer to the story. According to the same insider, Abdulkareem was not the club’s first choice. The Riyadh outfit had initially explored moves for Lamine Camara and a Bundesliga midfielder, but financial constraints pushed the committee toward a more economical option.

“The management insisted on Hayder Abdulkareem due to the financial situation,” the insider explained. As a result, the Iraqi midfielder arrived as a strategic compromise, not a headline signing — a reality that now shapes his early role at the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo once again found himself at the center of attention as Al-Nassr delivered a statement victory that reshaped the Saudi Pro League title race.

Cristiano Ronaldo once again found himself at the center of attention as Al-Nassr delivered a statement victory that reshaped the Saudi Pro League title race. In a season defined by momentum swings and relentless pressure at the top, the club traveled to Buraidah to face Al-Kholood, knowing that anything less than three points would all but end its ambitions. Instead, Al-Nassr responded with authority — and Ronaldo, inevitably, delivered when it mattered most.

The night ended with a comfortable scoreline, a crucial climb up the table, and a brief yet striking message from Ronaldo that immediately caught the attention of supporters and rivals alike. It was short, direct, and loaded with meaning — a reflection of both personal milestones and collective belief.

Jorge Jesus’ side began the match in control, dominating possession and territory from the opening whistle. However, despite the pressure, Al-Kholood resisted. Then, everything changed within minutes of the restart. Just two minutes into the second half, the visitors finally found the breakthrough, and it came through the familiar Portuguese connection.

Joao Felix timed his run perfectly, broke the offside trap, and squared the ball unselfishly for Cristiano Ronaldo, who tapped into an empty net. The goal was simple in execution, but monumental in significance. It marked Ronaldo’s 17th Saudi Pro League goal of the season and the 961st goal of his professional career, bringing him ever closer to the unprecedented 1,000-goal milestone.

Title race reignited

With confidence surging, Al-Nassr struck again just six minutes later. Joao Felix delivered a precise corner to the near post, where Mohamed Simakan rose highest to power home a commanding header. From that moment on, the contest tilted decisively. Al-Kholood struggled to respond, and matters worsened when captain Hattan Bahebri was sent off following a VAR review for an off-the-ball elbow on Simakan.

Reduced to ten men, the home side could no longer contain the visitors. Al-Nassr continued to probe, and the third goal arrived late when Kingsley Coman converted a penalty after being fouled inside the area. The final whistle confirmed a 3-0 victory, its fourth consecutive league win, and a return to second place in the table.

The result carried major implications. Al-Nassr moved to 43 points from 18 matches, closing the gap to league leader Al-Hilal to just three points. With Al-Hilal having dropped points in recent rounds, the balance of the title race has shifted once more. Defensive solidity has returned, attacking confidence is growing, and belief is spreading through the squad.

What did Ronaldo say after the game?

After the final whistle, Cristiano Ronaldo took to social media to write, “RISING!” There was no long caption, no explanation; just a single word accompanying images of celebration with teammates. That one word captured everything: Al-Nassr’s resurgence, the Portuguese’s relentless pursuit of history, and a club refusing to fade quietly from the title conversation.

As attention turns toward Al-Ittihad’s internal dynamics, the absence of the club’s captain has raised eyebrows, fueled speculation, and forced the head coach into an uncomfortable public spotlight.

Karim Benzema and Sergio Conceicao now find themselves at the center of one of the Saudi Pro League’s most delicate situations. What began as a routine league fixture has spiraled into a wider debate about contracts, respect, and the long-term sustainability of elite European stars in the Middle East. As attention turns toward Al-Ittihad’s internal dynamics, the absence of the club’s captain has raised eyebrows, fueled speculation, and forced the head coach into an uncomfortable public spotlight.

With Karim Benzema, a Ballon d’Or winner and global icon, unexpectedly missing from a key matchday squad, the discussion has shifted from tactics to governance. Meanwhile, Sergio Conceicao, newly tasked with stabilizing the project on the pitch, has been left navigating questions that extend far beyond soccer. While details initially remained carefully guarded, the story behind Benzema’s silence has now begun to surface — and it paints a picture of growing tension between player and club.

Following Al-Ittihad’s 2-2 draw against Al-Fateh, questions inevitably turned toward Benzema’s absence. Reports suggested that the striker had personally requested not to be selected, citing unresolved contractual issues. When pressed, Conceicao refused to be drawn into administrative matters, offering a firm but respectful response. “You will have to ask the club about Karim Benzema. I am here to train, prepare for matches, achieve results, and win titles. Everything else is outside my responsibilities,” Conceicao told reporters.

The Portuguese coach did, however, take care to publicly defend his captain’s professionalism. “I can say that Karim is a great professional, a fantastic player, and I am proud to coach him,” he added. Those words carried weight. They signaled internal respect while simultaneously underscoring that the dispute sits squarely with club leadership, not the technical staff.

The offer that changed everything

The mystery surrounding Benzema’s situation began to unravel midway through the week. Reports from L’Equipe, later echoed by Fabrizio Romano, revealed that Al-Ittihad had presented Benzema with an unconventional renewal proposal — one that sharply diverged from expectations.

According to Romano, the structure of the offer proved decisive. “Karim Benzema received a new contract proposal from Al Ittihad that is not what he expected,” Romano explained. “Benzema feels the promises coming from the club since last summer were different about a new contract.” The proposal would have extended Benzema’s stay beyond the expiration of his current deal, but without a traditional fixed salary, instead compensating him entirely through image rights payments.

In other words, playing without a base wage. “Basically, playing for free without any extra money, but just paid his image rights immediately,” Romano added. For a player of Benzema’s stature — and status as one of the highest-paid players in the world, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi — the offer was perceived as deeply disrespectful.

The captain steps aside

The disagreement reached a public breaking point when Benzema declined to feature against Al-Fateh. For a player who recorded 30 goal contributions during Al-Ittihad’s title-winning campaign and has already scored 16 goals in all competitions this season, the decision was extraordinary.

According to ESPN, Benzema felt “disrespected” by the proposal and has since been training away from the main squad while considering his future. The situation is further complicated by the league’s structure. Contract renewals for high-profile foreign players reportedly fall under centralized Saudi Pro League oversight, limiting Al-Ittihad’s direct control over negotiations.

Milan is quietly evaluating an intriguing opportunity that could reunite Pulisic with a familiar international teammate, one whose future suddenly appears far less certain than expected.

Christian Pulisic has already become a central figure in Milan’s long-term project, but the club’s ambitions may stretch even further ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Behind the scenes, Milan is quietly evaluating an intriguing opportunity that could reunite Pulisic with a familiar international teammate, one whose future suddenly appears far less certain than expected. While the idea may seem unlikely at first glance, shifting circumstances at a domestic rival have opened the door to a potential move that fits Massimiliano Allegri‘s strategy and tactical play.

With the Rossoneri looking to reinforce the midfield without committing to an expensive transfer fee, the club has begun tracking situations that could offer high value at minimal cost. One such case involves a versatile American international whose contract status has placed him firmly on the radar — not just in Italy, but across Europe. For Pulisic, the possibility of sharing the dressing room with a fellow USMNT leader again could represent continuity at club level ahead of a defining phase for the national team.

Milan’s recruitment philosophy has shifted toward targeting players nearing contract expiry who can immediately contribute at a high level. According to Calciomercato, the club has identified Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie, whose renewal talks have stalled, making him a realistic option on a free transfer. The player’s importance has surged since the arrival of a new coach in Turin, transforming him from a rotational figure into a tactical cornerstone.

That evolution has not gone unnoticed at San Siro, where depth, intensity, and tactical flexibility are seen as essential to sustaining domestic and European competitiveness. Despite Juventus’ desire to secure a renewal, no agreement has yet been reached, leaving rival clubs alert. The Rossoneri, in particular, see the situation as an opportunity rather than a gamble.

Tactical revival changes everything

The turning point in this story came with Luciano Spalletti’s arrival. Under the Italian coach, the American midfielder has enjoyed a dramatic resurgence, starting virtually every match and contributing decisively in both domestic and European competition.

His attacking output has been especially eye-catching: two league goals and three in the Champions League, many of them arriving in pivotal moments. Spalletti’s faith in the player has gone so far that he has deployed him across multiple roles, even pushing him into advanced attacking positions.

Why Milan makes sense after the World Cup

From Milan’s perspective, McKennie represents experience, tactical versatility, and international pedigree. These qualities align perfectly with Pulisic’s presence in the squad. Both players are expected to be central figures for the USMNT at the 2026 World Cup, and continuity at club level could enhance chemistry on the international stage.

The possibility of a return to the United States remains in the background, but Europe — and Italy in particular — continues to offer the highest competitive level. Milan’s interest reflects a belief that McKennie’s prime years are far from over.

FIFA’s latest financial data has quietly confirmed what many in world soccer have sensed for months: the center of gravity is shifting again.

FIFA’s latest financial data has quietly confirmed what many in world soccer have sensed for months: the center of gravity is shifting again. With Cristiano Ronaldo already embedded in the project and elite names such as Ousmane Dembele, Vinicius Junior, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski circling the conversation, the governing body has revealed which Asian clubs dominated global spending in 2025 — just ahead of what is being described as another Saudi revolution.

At first glance, the figures speak of scale rather than direction. But underneath them lies a deeper strategy, one that suggests Saudi soccer is preparing to evolve once more — not merely by spending, but by redefining who it spends on and why. According to FIFA’s Global Transfer Report 2025, international soccer experienced an unprecedented surge in activity. A total of 24,558 international transfers were completed in men’s soccer alone, representing a 7% increase from 2024 and the highest annual figure ever recorded.

Across men’s, women’s, and amateur soccer combined, FIFA registered 86,158 international transfers, another all-time high. Total spending on transfer fees climbed to $13.08 billion, shattering the previous record. England remained the world’s dominant spender, with clubs collectively investing $3.82 billion, while Brazil recorded the highest volume of player movement. Yet the most telling story was not in Europe or South America — it was in Asia.

Saudi spending never truly slowed

Although the Saudi Pro League’s explosive 2023 wave initially appeared to cool, 2025 proved that the slowdown was strategic rather than financial. Clubs continued to commit vast sums while reshaping their recruitment philosophy.

Al-Hilal entered a new era under Simone Inzaghi, spending heavily on Darwin Nunez ($80 million) and Theo Hernandez ($27 million). Al-Qadsiah surpassed $110 million in outlay, headlined by Mateo Retegui’s $74 million move. Government-backed NEOM crossed the $115 million mark, combining emerging talent with experienced stars such as Alexandre Lacazette.

Meanwhile, Al-Nassr reinforced its status as a global magnet by signing Joao Felix for $54 million and Kingsley Coman for $38 million, while Cristiano Ronaldo extended his contract, remaining the league’s defining figure both commercially and competitively. Midway through its report, FIFA confirmed the highest-spending Asian clubs for 2025, though it did not disclose exact totals.

Rank	Club	Country
1.	Al-Nassr	Saudi Arabia
2.	Al-Hilal	Saudi Arabia
3.	Al-Ahli	Saudi Arabia
4.	Al-Qadsiah	Saudi Arabia
5.	NEOM	Saudi Arabia
6.	Al-Ittihad	Saudi Arabia
7.	Al-Duhail	Qatar
8.	Al-Sadd	Qatar
9.	Al-Wasl	United Arab Emirates
10.	Al-Jazira	United Arab Emirates

The ranking places Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr at the very top, confirming the club as the financial benchmark not just in Saudi Arabia, but across Asia.

New target profile emerges

What makes this moment different is not simply the money — it is the shift in ambition. Saudi decision-makers are no longer focused solely on iconic veterans. Instead, the attention has turned toward elite players still operating at the very peak of European soccer.

According to Sky Sports, Saudi officials are “laying the groundwork” for a future move for Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, whose PSG contract situation remains unresolved. Similarly, The Telegraph and journalist Ben Jacobs report that Mohamed Salah and Vinicius Junior remain priority targets, while Robert Lewandowski has emerged as part of a broader shortlist aimed at redefining the league’s global image.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name looms over the buildup, even before a ball is kicked, as Al-Kholood prepares to welcome Al-Nassr to Buraidah.

As the Saudi Pro League season reaches a defining stretch, few fixtures arrive without tension, but this one carries a question that dominates every conversation. Cristiano Ronaldo’s name looms over the buildup, even before a ball is kicked, as Al-Kholood prepares to welcome Al-Nassr to Buraidah. The clash is framed by contrasting ambitions, and form lines pulling in opposite directions.

For Al-Nassr, momentum has returned after a turbulent spell. For Al-Kholood, survival instincts are beginning to sharpen. And for the league itself, nights like these often reveal more than just three points.

The hosts enter Matchday 19 under pressure. A 2-1 home defeat to Al-Ettifaq last time out extended a worrying trend: four losses in the last five league matches. That run has left the club hovering just above the relegation zone, 13th in the table with 15 points, and painfully aware that the margin for error is shrinking.

The numbers tell a stark story. Al-Kholood has managed only five wins all season, losing the other 12 matches, with 25 goals scored and 32 conceded. Home form, in particular, has been fragile, with just two victories from nine matches at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium. Under Des Buckingham, the structure is there, but lapses in concentration and a lack of cutting edge have repeatedly undone promising spells.

Across the pitch stands a very different force. Jorge Jesus’ players arrive in Buraidah firmly entrenched in the title conversation. With 40 points from 17 matches, the club sits third in the table, trailing leaders Al-Hilal by six points and second-placed Al-Ahli by three. Anything short of victory risks surrendering ground in a race that allows little mercy.

Will Ronaldo play?

Midway through the buildup, the focus inevitably narrows to one name. Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo will play. The Portuguese forward has been at the center of growing speculation after missing multiple training sessions in recent weeks due to physical fatigue.

According to Arriyadhiyah, Ronaldo did not take part in Al-Nassr’s main group last weekend, completing recovery work away from the pitch as a precaution. “The absence was attributed to physical fatigue, with the coaching staff opting for caution rather than risk,” the report stated. This was not the first time concerns surfaced. Two weeks earlier, Ronaldo skipped full training before facing Damac, yet still played the full match — and scored the decisive goal.

That pattern appears to be repeating. Despite the managed workload, the Portuguese veteran will lead the line once again, underlining both his importance and the careful balancing act Al-Nassr must maintain as fixtures pile up.

Al-Kholood vs. Al-Nassr: Confirmed lineups

Al-Kholood has the luxury of near-full availability. No major injury concerns leave Buckingham free to select from a settled core, with Ramiro Enrique — scorer of 10 league goals — once again carrying much of the attacking burden.

Al-Nassr, meanwhile, welcomes mixed news of its own. Sadio Mane returned to the starting XI against Al-Taawoun, completing 88 minutes, and will feature again. On the other hand, Marcelo Brozovic will miss the game due to injury.

Al-Kholood confirmed XI: Cozzani; Ramzi, Gyomber, Pinas, Camara; Al-Aliwa, N’Doram, Hattam; Buckley, Sawaan; Enrique.

Al-Nassr confirmed XI: Bento; Al-Nasser, Simakan, Martinez, Al-Ghannam; Coman, Angelo, Al-Hassan, Mane; Joao Felix, Ronaldo.

Ousmane Dembele lifted the most prestigious individual prize in world soccer, Lamine Yamal stood proudly beside him on the podium, and Raphinha watched from further down the list.

Ousmane Dembele lifted the most prestigious individual prize in world soccer, Lamine Yamal stood proudly beside him on the podium, and Raphinha watched from further down the list — officially fifth in the 2025 Ballon d’Or standings. On paper, the ranking looked settled. In reality, the debate was only beginning.

Months after the ceremony, the Barcelona star has made it clear that the wound never fully healed. Raphinha, who delivered one of the most productive attacking seasons in Europe, believes the story of the Ballon d’Or was written with selective memory. And now, speaking openly, he has reignited the conversation — one that subtly sidelines both Dembele and Yamal in the process.

The numbers alone placed the Brazilian star among the elite. He finished the season with 34 goals and 22 assists, becoming one of the most decisive players across Europe’s top competitions. Only Mohamed Salah recorded more direct goal involvements in all competitions. With the club, Raphinha was instrumental in a domestic treble, lifting the league title, the national cup, and the super cup. In continental competition, he emerged as joint top scorer, breaking records along the way and delivering consistently against elite opposition.

Yet when the Ballon d’Or shortlist narrowed, his name was conspicuously absent from the top three. Instead, the award went to Dembele after a Champions League-driven campaign, with Yamal finishing second and Vitinha third. Salah placed fourth. Raphinha finished fifth — a result that surprised many analysts and infuriated the player himself.

In an interview with SofaScore, Raphinha did not hide his frustration. “I was upset. I expected more. I expected to be in the top 3 at least. I knew winning would be difficult because the Champions League weighs a lot. So I was upset with the position I ended in,” he admitted. Despite acknowledging factors outside his control, the Brazilian made it clear that the ranking felt unjust. “I understand it involves many things I cannot control. Many things that are complicated to keep highlighting. What I can say is that I’m very satisfied with the season I had — and no individual award will erase what I did last season.”

Why Raphinha thinks he should have won 2025 Ballon d’Or

When asked directly who should have won the Ballon d’Or, Raphinha did not hesitate — and this is where the mystery finally dissolves. “Myself, personally, I would place myself first. I would place myself in first place!” he said. Then came the 10-word explanation that has since echoed across soccer circles: “An individual award cannot be based on a single competition.”

With that sentence, Raphinha laid bare his core argument. For him, the Ballon d’Or has drifted away from evaluating an entire season and become overly dependent on Champions League success. “Based on that, I think I deserved to be first for what I delivered during the season, for the titles I won, for the numbers I achieved, and for everything I contributed on the pitch,” he explained. “I think I deserved to win.”

Where Dembele and Yamal fit into Raphinha’s logic

Interestingly, Raphinha was careful not to diminish the seasons enjoyed by his rivals — even as he effectively excluded them from his personal podium. “As it is an award that is practically based on a single competition, Dembele deserved to win, especially since he also had a spectacular season. Lamine also had a spectacular season,” he said.

But when reshaping the rankings based on his own criteria, the Brazilian made a striking choice. Raphinha placed himself first, followed by Lamine Yamal and Pedri, with Dembele pushed down to fourth. That ordering quietly underscored his belief that season-long consistency, not isolated peaks, should define soccer’s biggest individual prize.

Marcus Rashford, introduced late off the bench, did something neither Lamine Yamal nor Robert Lewandowski had managed to do in Europe for the club.

For years, Lionel Messi’s shadow loomed large over Barcelona, stretching far beyond goals and trophies. On a Champions League night filled with noise, tension, and celebration, that shadow finally began to lift. Marcus Rashford, introduced late off the bench, did something neither Lamine Yamal nor Robert Lewandowski had managed to do in Europe for the club — and in doing so, he etched his name into a piece of history that had quietly haunted Barcelona since 2019.

The English forward’s contribution was not just decisive, but symbolic. While Yamal dazzled with creativity and Lewandowski delivered his usual clinical finish, it was Rashford who delivered the moment that truly felt like closure — a sign that Barcelona may finally be stepping out of Messi’s long-lasting aura.

Barca’s final Champions League league phase clash against Copenhagen unfolded like a slow-burning drama. After a nervy first half, the team surged forward with authority in the second period. Goals from Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha flipped the game on its head before Rashford was introduced with under 20 minutes remaining.

In the 85th minute, the England international delivered the finishing touch to a 4-1 victory, sealing qualification to the round of 16 and sparking scenes of celebration at Camp Nou. But this goal was not just another entry on the scoresheet. It was something far bigger.

The historic feat finally revealed

And here is the historic feat that Rashford helped achieve: Barcelona finally scored a direct free-kick in the Champions League for the first time after Lionel Messi’s exit in 2021. The last time it happened was May 1, 2019, when the Argentine superstar dismantled Liverpool with a stunning set-piece in the semi-final. More than five years and over 2,000 days passed without another Barcelona player replicating that feat — until Rashford stepped up.

The Englishman bent the ball over the wall and toward the near post, wrong-footing goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski, who had anticipated a far-corner effort. The execution was flawless, the significance was immense, and thus Spanish media were unanimous in their assessment. Marca, Diario AS, Mundo Deportivo, and Sport all highlighted the symbolic nature of the strike.

“Rashford managed to break the curse of direct free-kick goals since Messi left,” Diario AS wrote, calling it “what seemed impossible at Barcelona.” What’s more, Mundo Deportivo described the goal as “spectacular,” while noting that Lamine Yamal’s brilliance still carried much of the team’s attacking weight. Yet it was the Manchester United loanee who delivered the historical punctuation mark.

The curse that wouldn’t go away

For years, the Blaugrana supporters had grown accustomed to seeing free-kicks fly wide, clip the wall, or sail harmlessly over the bar. Since Messi’s departure, direct free-kicks had become a recurring frustration — a reminder of something lost.

Before Rashford’s strike, Barcelona had reportedly taken over 50 direct free-kicks in the Champions League without scoring once. Across all competitions, the numbers were scarcely better. The club had managed just three free-kick goals in total, the most recent coming from Ferran Torres in September 2023. In Europe, however, the drought was absolute.

There is growing discussion around a possible emotional decision that could reshape not just a dressing room, but the identity of a team built on balance, control, and leadership.

Christian Pulisic is enjoying a defining stretch of his career, thriving alongside elite experience and leadership, while Luka Modric continues to defy time with performances that shape matches and seasons. Yet behind the stability of the present, uncertainty quietly looms. There is growing discussion around a possible emotional decision that could reshape not just a dressing room, but the identity of a team built on balance, control, and leadership.

What seems clear is that this is not about urgency, nor decline. Instead, it is about timing, legacy, and what comes after one final global stage. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Luka Modric has become one of the undisputed leaders of the club, assuming responsibility almost immediately after arriving. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Croatian midfielder remains central to everything Milan does, even when his influence is subtle rather than spectacular.

On the pitch, the numbers underline his importance. He has played the third-most minutes in the league (1,754) and ranks among the most-used players across all competitions. Out of 26 matches, he has only failed to complete a full ninety minutes twice.

Observers consistently note that there is a clear difference between the team with Modric and the team without him. The 40-year-old’s positional intelligence, timing, and work rate without the ball are essential to maintaining balance—qualities that directly benefit attacking players like Christian Pulisic, who thrives when structure and tempo are controlled behind him.

Modric’s contract with the Rossoneri expires shortly after the 2026 World Cup, with an option for an additional year that rests largely in his own hands. While the club technically holds a pathway to extend the deal, the final decision will belong almost entirely to the player.

What lies ahead for Modric?

The Croatian veteran is believed to want to evaluate multiple factors before deciding—his physical condition, the competitiveness of the project, family considerations, and the outcome of the World Cup itself. This mirrors the path taken by other veterans who prioritized personal clarity over rushed commitments.

According to Pietro Balzano Prota of MilanVibes, Dinamo Zagreb has begun exploratory discussions to understand whether a return could be possible once Modric’s current deal expires. Importantly, these contacts are not negotiations. They are described as a “survey”—a way to gauge interest rather than force a decision. The emotional pull is obvious: a return home to finish a legendary career after one final World Cup carries symbolism that few players ever experience.

“Dinamo Zagreb has begun to test the waters about a return,” the report explains, noting that the experienced midfielder would only consider such a move if he feels ready to slow down.

What it would mean for Pulisic

For Christian Pulisic, Modric’s potential departure would represent a significant shift. The Croatian’s presence provides leadership, calm, and tactical clarity, allowing attacking players to focus on expression rather than damage control. Losing that influence would force the club to rethink its structure and recruitment strategy.

The management is already preparing contingencies. Names like Leon Goretzka and Mateo Kovacic have been internally discussed, while other midfielders could also move on next season. The idea is simple: be ready for every scenario.

Kylian Mbappe, one of Real Madrid's most decisive voices on the pitch, did not hide after the final whistle.

The night in Lisbon was meant to be a test of maturity, authority, and control. Instead, it became a mirror reflecting uncomfortable truths. Kylian Mbappe, one of soccer’s most decisive voices on the pitch, did not hide after the final whistle. As Real Madrid left the Estadio da Luz bruised by a dramatic European defeat, the French forward placed the club at the center of a storm—one defined not by tactics or talent, but by something far more troubling. The club, he suggested, failed a basic test that elite teams are expected to pass without hesitation.

In a match filled with chaos, red cards, and a goalkeeper’s stoppage-time header, the defeat was shocking enough. What followed, however, was even more striking: a brutally honest assessment from the team’s biggest star.

Real Madrid traveled to Portugal knowing that a top-eight finish in the Champions League league phase was within reach. Even a draw would have been enough to avoid the play-offs. Instead, the club collapsed spectacularly, losing 4-2 in a match that exposed defensive fragility, mental lapses, and a worrying lack of urgency.

Despite being second-best for long stretches, the club took an undeserved lead when Mbappe headed home from close range, scoring with his first meaningful touch. Benfica responded with conviction. Andreas Schjelderup equalized after a sweeping counter-attack, before Vangelis Pavlidis converted a penalty just before half-time. Early in the second half, the home outfit struck again on the break, opening a two-goal cushion.

The French star briefly reignited hope by pulling one back, but discipline unraveled late on. Raul Asencio and Rodrygo were both sent off, leaving the club with nine men. Then came the moment that sealed the humiliation: Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a 98th-minute header, a goal that not only secured the win but pushed Los Blancos out of the top eight.

Body language that raised alarms

Beyond the scoreline, images from stoppage time caused outrage. With the club desperately defending a final free kick, Mbappe and Vinicius were seen standing outside the box, hands on their hips, while teammates fought inside the area. Critics were quick to pounce, questioning commitment at the most critical moment.

While some argued the pair were positioned for a counter-attack, the optics were damaging. Against a Jose Mourinho side throwing everything forward, the contrast in hunger was impossible to ignore.

What did Mbappe say?

After the match, Mbappe did not deflect blame. Instead, he delivered a scathing verdict on the club’s performance and mentality. “We aren’t being consistent in our play. We have to solve that. We can’t do it one day and then not another. A team of champions doesn’t do that,” he told reporters.

At first, his criticism appeared broad—focused on inconsistency and collective responsibility. But as he continued, the true heart of his frustration emerged. Midway through his post-match analysis, the 27-year-old stripped the problem down to its core, unveiling the fiery eight-word attack that has since echoed across Europe: “It’s about having more desire than your opponent.”

With that sentence, he dismissed excuses about tactics, quality, or preparation. According to him, the club failed because it simply wanted the victory less than Benfica. “It isn’t about quality, and it isn’t about tactics,” he added. “You could see that everything was on the line for Benfica, and you couldn’t see that for us, and that’s a problem.”

The mere idea of Cristiano Ronaldo lining up against Karim Benzema once again has been enough to electrify fans across the region. Yet as the calendar edges closer to a potential 2026 showdown, that blockbuster meeting is suddenly under threat.

The Saudi Pro League has spent the last two years selling narratives as much as soccer, and few have been more powerful than the revival of an old Real Madrid teammate duo turned into a rivalry. The mere idea of Cristiano Ronaldo lining up against Karim Benzema once again has been enough to electrify fans across the region. Yet as the calendar edges closer to a potential 2026 showdown, that blockbuster meeting is suddenly under threat.

Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema appear in the same sentence once more, but this time the story is not about goals, legacy, or Ballon d’Or debates. Instead, uncertainty hangs over the Frenchman’s immediate future, casting doubt over whether soccer’s most decorated modern-era rivalry will even reach the pitch.

When Benzema arrived in Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2023, following Ronaldo’s groundbreaking move months earlier, the league gained something priceless: narrative continuity. Two icons of European dominance, now leading rival clubs, offered instant global relevance. The Portuguese became the face of ambition, while Benzema was positioned as the calm architect of success.

That vision materialized quickly. The 2018 Ballon d’Or star captained Al-Ittihad to a historic league and cup double last season, cementing his importance not just as a scorer, but as a leader. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continued to redefine longevity, dragging Al-Nassr into title contention through sheer force of will. A direct clash between the two in 2026 was meant to be another chapter in that saga. Instead, it now risks becoming a “what if.”

Benzema refuses to play for Al-Ittihad

The first sign that something was wrong came quietly. According to multiple reports, Benzema has asked to be left out of the matchday squad for Al-Ittihad’s upcoming league fixture against Al-Fateh, a move that immediately raises eyebrows. This is not a decision imposed by the coaching staff, nor a reaction to injury.

Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed the development, noting that the call came directly from the player. “Karim Benzema has asked to be excluded from the Al-Ittihad squad… Decision taken by Benzema. Not a call by [head coach] Sergio Conceicao.” With a high-profile match against Al-Nassr looming just days later, concern quickly turned into alarm. The league’s most marketable rivalry is suddenly in doubt.

The bizarre reason revealed

Reports soon clarified that the 38-year-old’s likely absence is rooted in deep dissatisfaction with a proposed contract renewal. His current deal is set to expire in June, and despite promises of an extension since last summer, a formal offer arrived only days before the transfer window deadline. French outlets Foot Mercato and L’Equipe suggest that the proposal was delivered by the league’s Director of Football, Michael Emenalo, and was viewed by those close to Benzema as deeply disrespectful. The terms were said to be so unfavorable that they amounted to “playing for free,” excluding image rights.

This perception of disrespect prompted Benzema to take a drastic step: withdrawing himself from the squad. Crucially, Al-Ittihad’s own executives appear powerless, as final authority rests with the league itself—effectively making the Saudi Pro League the player’s true employer.

What makes the situation more striking is how quickly the narrative has flipped. Just weeks earlier, Benzema had spoken positively about his future in Saudi Arabia. “I am part of the project, I’m in the right place,” he said in an interview with L’Equipe, signaling his willingness to commit long-term.

That optimism has evaporated. The frustration now threatens not only Benzema’s immediate availability, but also the league’s broader image. Losing the reigning captain and cornerstone of a title-winning team is a significant sporting blow—especially ahead of a potential showdown with Ronaldo’s club.

With Talisca speaking out publicly, what once looked like a routine transfer has now evolved into a controversy that threatens to reshape the narrative around Ronaldo’s time at the club.

The Saudi Pro League rarely lacks drama, but this time Cristiano Ronaldo finds himself at the center of a storm that has little to do with goals, trophies, or records. Instead, the turbulence comes from the past. A former teammate has reignited debate about Al-Nassr’s internal dynamics, delivering a cryptic yet explosive message that has sent shockwaves through the club’s fanbase. With Talisca speaking out publicly, what once looked like a routine transfer has now evolved into a controversy that threatens to reshape the narrative around Ronaldo’s time at the club.

At first glance, it appears to be another dispute between a player and his former employer. But the undertones suggest something deeper: questions of respect, power, and identity inside a club that has transformed rapidly since the Portuguese’s arrival.

The controversy resurfaced after comments made by Al-Nassr president Abdullah Al-Majed, who openly criticized Talisca’s influence during his time at the club. Speaking in a recent interview, Al-Majed claimed the Brazilian forward had been a divisive figure. “Talisca is one of the players who caused a division within Al-Nassr, between those who see him as a key and important element, and those who feel his departure was not comfortable for the fans. He is a great player, but his problem was that he was often substituted,” he said.

Those words reopened old wounds. According to Arriyadiyah, attempts to move Talisca on from the club dated back to the summer of 2023. Negotiations were held, replacement targets were identified, and exit strategies were quietly explored. Yet time and again, the Brazilian refused to leave, believing his role at the club was far from finished. That standoff continued until January 2025, when the Brazilian striker finally departed, ending his chapter with the Knights of Najd.

Decorated record that refuses to be erased

Statistically, Talisca’s legacy at Al-Nassr is difficult to dismiss. He scored 77 goals and delivered 17 assists in 104 appearances, winning the FIFA Arab Cup and becoming the fifth-highest goalscorer in the club’s history. Those numbers place him firmly among the most productive players ever to wear the shirt. For many supporters, that record clashes sharply with the club’s portrayal of his exit. And it is precisely this contradiction that prompted Talisca to respond—publicly and emotionally.

Initially, the 31-year-old’s reaction hinted at frustration without revealing its sharpest edge. He spoke about structural change and shifting priorities, suggesting that soccer decisions had taken a back seat to commercial ones.

What did Talisca say about Al-Nassr?

“The new structure at Al-Nassr became more about business, and I honestly no longer fit into that,” he took to Instagram to fight back. “The numbers are clear, and my connection with the club is part of its history. I was one of the first to arrive in this new phase and went through the entire transition into the club’s new era. Even so, they did not respect my history with the club or with the fans – they simply acted as if nothing was happening.”

“For that reason, I consider it a lack of respect toward Al-Nassr supporters to make such statements without telling the truth.” Then came the moment that turned simmering tension into outright confrontation. In a follow-up comment, the veteran unveiled the scathing attack that has since dominated headlines: “They pushed me out because I was scoring too many goals and was ‘getting in the way’.

The particular 11-word jab was explosive. According to Talisca, his performances had not protected him; instead, they had made him expendable. He went further, claiming that he was effectively forced into requesting his own exit—an allegation that challenges the club’s official stance. ”They even forced me to ask to leave,” the current Fenerbahce star added.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence still defines the Saudi Pro League, but even icons are not immune to momentum shifts.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence still defines the Saudi Pro League, but even icons are not immune to momentum shifts. In recent weeks, the Al-Nassr captain has found himself at the center of a changing narrative—one that reflects both the competitiveness of the league and the emergence of a new scoring force.

For much of the 2025-26 season, Cristiano Ronaldo has been the benchmark. Wearing the captain’s armband for Al-Nassr, the Portuguese forward set the pace early, leading the Saudi league scoring charts with remarkable consistency. According to official league statistics released after Matchweek 17, the Portuguese had scored 16 goals in 16 appearances, maintaining his position as the league’s most prolific scorer well into January.

The numbers only reinforced his enduring status. Since arriving in the Middle East, Ronaldo has amassed 90 goals in 93 appearances, an extraordinary return that sits comfortably alongside his historic 960 career goals in professional soccer. For weeks, no challenger managed to push past him, even as the league tightened around the top of the table.

Behind him, competition was building. Julian Quinones of Al-Qadsiah closed in with 15 goals from just 13 matches, while Roger Martínez of Al-Taawoun and another rising contender both hovered on 14. Still, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remained the man everyone chased.

The mystery man steps forward

Midweek, the Golden Boot race took a dramatic turn. In a statement performance that rippled across the league, a rival striker delivered a night that could not be ignored—a hat-trick and an assist in a 4-0 victory, earning a 9.8 match rating, the highest of the game.

The player who finally overtook Cristiano Ronaldo was Ivan Toney. The English striker, leading the line for Al-Ahli, moved decisively to the top of the Golden Boot standings with 18 goals, pulling two goals clear of the Portuguese and Quinones.

Since returning from the international break on December 22, the former Premier League ace has contributed an astonishing 22 goal involvements: 16 goals and six assists, a run of form unmatched in the league. His hat-trick not only extended Al-Ahli’s winning streak to seven matches but also lifted the club into second place, intensifying the title race. According to league tracking, “Toney didn’t just stay in the Golden Boot race—he went straight to the top.”

For Ronaldo, this is unfamiliar territory—but hardly alarming. Losing the scoring lead does not erase his influence, nor does it diminish his output. Instead, it underlines how competitive the Saudi Pro League has become. The emergence of a prime-age striker in devastating form signals a league no longer revolving around a single star.

Christian Pulisic has long been used to carrying expectations, both for club and for country. But as the countdown to the 2026 World Cup accelerates, the USMNT captain has received an unexpected warning from much closer to home.

Christian Pulisic has long been used to carrying expectations, both for club and for country. But as the countdown to the 2026 World Cup accelerates, the USMNT captain has received an unexpected warning from much closer to home. Inside the Milan dressing room, where alliances are built daily, a teammate has openly admitted that friendship will be put aside if their paths cross on soccer’s biggest stage. What sounds like a threat is, in truth, a reflection of how deeply national rivalry still cuts—even between close friends.

The American’s importance at the San Siro is no longer up for debate, as he has become one of the club’s most reliable and influential figures, translating consistency into numbers and leadership. Last season alone, Pulisic recorded 29 goal involvements (17 goals, 12 assists), and he has continued that impact into the current campaign. His value has been such that the club hierarchy and coach Massimiliano Allegri are actively working toward a new contract that could make him one of the highest-paid players within the club.

That stature has also carried into the dressing room. Pulisic is widely respected, not just for performance, but for presence. Among those closest to him is a teammate who arrived in Italy amid major expectations but has endured a far more turbulent spell. Despite struggling for form and fitness, the striker has leaned heavily on Pulisic during difficult moments, forging a bond that goes beyond soccer. Yet that friendship has a clear expiration date.

The warning came not through whispers, but directly—and publicly. Speaking in an interview, Milan forward Santiago Gimenez explained how the dynamic shifts once club colors are replaced by national ones. “If we play a game for our countries, we are enemies, we are rivals,” he told ESPN, before delivering the line that ignited headlines across the soccer world. “But if he’s playing against Mexico, of course, if I need to kill him, I kill him!”

The words were deliberately provocative, but the context softened the blow. The Mexican striker immediately added that Pulisic had been “one of my best friends” and “a really good friend in this difficult moment of injury rehab.” Still, the message was clear: club loyalty ends the moment the World Cup begins.

Santiago Gimenez looks ahead to World Cup and USMNT rivalry despite injury

The Mexico international striker joined Milan in January 2025 after a prolific spell at Feyenoord. His move, valued at $38 million, was meant to elevate the Rossoneri’s attack. Instead, injuries and inconsistency have stalled his progress. Gimenez has scored just seven goals in 30 appearances, and a persistent ankle issue ultimately required surgery, ruling him out for months.

While Gimenez has been sidelined, the Serie A side has leaned on Pulisic, Rafael Leao, and others, remaining unbeaten domestically since the opening day of the season. Allegri has managed workloads carefully, with favorable fixtures ahead that could coincide with Gimenez’s return—possibly just in time for a pivotal derby.

For Gimenez, however, club soccer is only half the story. The striker is central to El Tri’s World Cup ambitions, sharing the scoring burden as the nation prepares to host matches on home soil. “To play a World Cup in your country is amazing,” he said.

The pressure is immense, but so is the motivation. That ambition inevitably circles back to Pulisic. The United States and Mexico rivalry remains one of international soccer’s most emotionally charged, and Gimenez does not shy away from it. “If he puts on the shirt of the USA, he’s a rival,” he insisted.

For a player who carried the club’s attack through the opening months of the season, the sudden drop in end product has been impossible to ignore.

The first weeks of the new year have felt strangely quiet around Christian Pulisic. For a player who carried the club’s attack through the opening months of the season, the sudden drop in end product has been impossible to ignore. Inside the club, however, there is calm rather than panic. The feeling is that this is a temporary pause, not a permanent decline—and that the version of Pulisic everyone recognizes and wants to see at the 2026 World Cup is still waiting to be fully unleashed. For now, Milan continues to wait, convinced that patience will be rewarded.

Not long ago, Pulisic was the undisputed focal point of the club’s attack. Goals, assists, decisive runs—everything flowed through him. Yet as 2026 began, the rhythm changed. Across six matches in the new year, the American has yet to register a goal or an assist, an unusual dry spell for a player who remains the team’s leading scorer with 10 goals in all competitions.

The most telling moment came in the 1-1 draw away to Roma, when the American entered in the 69th minute and struggled to influence the game. The club appeared content to protect a point, and his attacking freedom was limited. It was another night where the numbers didn’t reflect his true value—but also one where his sharpness seemed just slightly off.

Despite the noise, this is not being framed internally as a crisis. Pulisic still ranks among the top five players for goal contributions in Serie A, and only Lautaro Martinez boasts a better goals-per-90 ratio in the league. The foundations of his season remain strong.

Pulisic’s early-season numbers were exceptional even while he missed time through injury. He produced eight league goals and two assists before the winter break, despite being sidelined for five matches. Few players in the league were as consistently decisive. That consistency has earned him credit. The coaching staff continues to trust him, even when he starts from the bench. Manager Massimiliano Allegri has repeatedly stressed that the American’s overall influence goes beyond raw statistics.

The real explanation emerges

Midway through the discussion, the mystery surrounding Pulisic’s form finally becomes clearer. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the USMNT international is still dealing with ongoing physical discomfort, which has quietly limited his ability to train and perform at full intensity.

The report explains that the 27-year-old winger has been managing persistent issues that have flared up repeatedly, preventing him from reaching peak sharpness. This has affected not only his explosiveness, but also his decision-making in the final third—something uncharacteristic for a player normally praised for his composure.

Allegri himself confirmed this situation in late December. After a win over Hellas Verona, the coach admitted, “He’s still not 100 percent. He’s doing well, even if he’s still not physically fit with this minor flexor issue.” He added pointedly, “In fact, he’s making some poor passing choices and delaying plays a bit.” That insight reframes everything. The dip is not tactical, psychological, or form-related—it is physical.

Rare window for recovery

There is optimism that the situation can improve quickly, the report adds. The club’s upcoming schedule offers breathing room, with only two matches before mid-February. That lighter calendar allows extended recovery sessions at Milanello, not just for Pulisic, but for other key attackers who have been dealing with minor issues.

Internally, this period is viewed as crucial. The goal is simple: restore Pulisic’s fitness without rushing him, ensuring that when he returns to full speed, he stays there. The club’s reliance on him is undeniable. Alongside Rafael Leao, Pulisic forms the attacking core that defines Milan’s ceiling. When both are available and sharp, the difference is immediate.

With Cristiano Ronaldo still the league’s defining figure, and names such as Ousmane Dembele, Vinicius Junior, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski now being discussed in the same breath, a sense of renewed momentum is building.

The summer horizon in Saudi Arabia is beginning to look very different. With Cristiano Ronaldo still the league’s defining figure, and names such as Ousmane Dembele, Vinicius Junior, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski now being discussed in the same breath, a sense of renewed momentum is building. Behind the scenes, the league is preparing structural changes that could quietly reshape the transfer market—and, in the process, offer relief to Ronaldo as the competition enters its next phase of ambition.

For months, speculation has centered on who might become the next face of the project, the next signing capable of matching the global impact of Ronaldo’s arrival. What has remained hidden until now is how the league plans to make that leap realistically achievable.

When Cristiano Ronaldo arrived in Saudi Arabia in early 2023, the league forced itself into the global soccer conversation overnight. The deal was historic, both financially and symbolically, and it triggered a first wave of high-profile arrivals that leaned heavily toward established stars later in their careers.

That cycle is now nearing its end. Several of those early contracts are approaching expiration, and the focus is shifting. The league is no longer satisfied with reputation alone—it wants prime-age superstars who can elevate both performance levels and international credibility.

Salah, Vinicius, and the next targets

According to The Telegraph and journalist Ben Jacobs, Mohamed Salah and Vinicius Junior have been identified as priority targets in the next major transfer cycle. Salah’s name, in particular, has never fully left the Saudi radar, with a $206.5 million bid once rejected and fresh contact reportedly made again. Lewandowski’s name has also surfaced among a broader shortlist of elite foreign players, as the Saudi strategy pivots away from late-career recruitment and toward stars who can still define the highest level.

The ambitions do not stop there, as another name has emerged as a central target: Ousmane Dembele, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner. According to Sky Sports, preliminary inquiries have already been made for the Paris Saint-Germain forward, with any serious move expected only after the 2026 World Cup. The ambition is clear: a signing “on the level of Cristiano Ronaldo,” but younger, faster, and still at his peak.

Dembele’s profile fits the new vision perfectly. At 28, he is neither a farewell-tour signing nor a future project. After reinventing himself under Luis Enrique, he played a key role in a PSG side that lifted a historic treble, finishing as a decisive attacking force and collecting every major individual honor along the way.

The possible rule change revealed

Midway through the planning, the most important detail finally emerges. According to Saudi journalist Falah Al-Qahtani, the number of foreign players allowed in the Saudi Pro League is set to increase significantly next season, with a 90% chance that the limit will rise.

“The number of foreign players in the Saudi Pro League will be increased to 10 by next season,” Al-Qahtani reported, explaining that league officials believe the move is essential to raise standards and attract elite talent.

This is the quiet revolution. By expanding the foreign-player quota, the league removes one of the biggest obstacles to assembling squads filled with global stars. Suddenly, moves for players like Dembele, Vinicius Junior, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski become far more realistic—not as isolated marketing stunts, but as part of a broader competitive structure.

When Endrick arrived in Ligue 1 on loan, expectations were high—but the scale of his impact has quickly shifted the conversation from promise to history.

A new chapter is unfolding in French soccer, and it carries echoes of names that have defined an era. When Endrick arrived in Ligue 1 on loan, expectations were high—but the scale of his impact has quickly shifted the conversation from promise to history. Comparisons to Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele have followed him since his teenage years, yet what has happened in Lyon feels less like hype and more like inevitability.

The Brazilian teenager, still owned by Real Madrid, has found something crucial in France: rhythm, trust, and freedom. In just a matter of weeks, the club has gone from nurturing a talented loanee to witnessing a performance that places Endrick alongside some of the most electrifying attackers the league has produced this century.

His decision to leave Los Blancos on a short-term loan was rooted in opportunity. At the Bernabeu, minutes were scarce and competition unforgiving. In France, though, the plan was simpler: play, grow, and contribute. Few anticipated just how quickly that contribution would arrive. In his opening three matches, the Brazilian forward delivered four goals and one assist, instantly transforming the club’s attacking dynamic.

The effect on the table was immediate as well, with Lyon pushing firmly back into the Champions League qualification race. Behind the scenes, confidence in the teenager has been unwavering. The Spanish club and its coaching staff are reportedly delighted with his development, while Les Gones have embraced him as a centerpiece rather than a project.

Everything crystallized in a dramatic 5-2 victory over Metz, a match that quickly became Endrick’s personal showcase. He opened the scoring early, struck again just before halftime, and completed a stunning treble late on with a composed penalty. The performance was not just efficient—it was dominant.

The historic record revealed

Midway through the celebrations, the wider significance of the moment became clear. Endrick had not only scored three goals—he had matched a historic Ligue 1 benchmark previously reached only by Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele in the 21st century.

At just 19 years and 188 days old, Endrick became the fourth youngest player this century to score a hat-trick in the French top division, joining an exclusive list that includes Jeremy Menez, Mbappe, and Dembele. It is a milestone that places him firmly in elite company and underscores the magnitude of his rise.

The achievement carried additional weight at club level. Endrick also became the youngest player in the club’s history to score a hat-trick, surpassing a record held since 1972 by Bernard Lacombe. For a club with such a rich attacking heritage, that alone is monumental.