While Ronaldo prepares for one last global campaign, James Rodriguez has chosen a route already taken by Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller, and Son Heung-min.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup chapter was always going to be complicated, but the picture has just become even more uncomfortable. As Portugal eyes the 2026 tournament with ambition and urgency, one of its World Cup Group K rivals has quietly strengthened its hand. While Ronaldo prepares for one last global campaign, James Rodriguez has chosen a route already taken by Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller, and Son Heung-min; a move that could reshape the competitive balance long before the tournament kicks off.

This is not just a transfer. It is a strategic decision with international consequences. Match fitness, continuity, and leadership are now firmly on Colombia’s side, and the timing could hardly be more inconvenient for Portugal. In fact, James Rodriguez has never lacked talent. What he has lacked in recent seasons is stability, and that is precisely what this move offers.

The Colombian playmaker, who had been without a club after leaving Mexico late last year, has signed a short-term deal with Minnesota United, designed with a single objective in mind: arriving at the 2026 World Cup sharp, healthy, and influential. The contract runs until June 2026, with an option to extend through the end of the season, ensuring regular play during the most critical buildup of his international career.

“The signing will allow Rodriguez to stay match-fit ahead of the 2026 World Cup,” confirmed official club communication, underlining the intent behind the move. At 34, Rodriguez understands the margins. Training alone was not an option. Rotating between short-term projects was not ideal. He needed minutes, responsibility, and rhythm, and he found them in Major League Soccer, following a path increasingly chosen by elite veterans.

What this means for Portugal and Ronaldo

The move marks the thirteenth club of his career, continuing a journey that has taken him through Portugal, Spain, Germany, England, France, South America, and now the United States. “James is a player whose quality, vision, and experience at the highest levels of the game are unquestioned,” said sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad in a statement published by the club. “At the same time, this move is about collective strength — not about putting everything on one individual.”

Rodriguez echoed that sentiment. “I’m very happy for this new chapter in my life,” he said. “I hope to be at my best so I can bring joy to this city and to all of the people who are putting their faith in me.”

This signing is about more than MLS exposure. Rodriguez remains Colombia’s captain, the emotional and tactical leader of a team that reached the Copa America final in 2024 and continues to mature under stable management.

For Portugal, the concern is simple. While the Al-Nassr star prepares for the grand competition at an advanced age, one of his direct rivals now has its leader settled, fit, and central to a project built around him. Colombia’s clarity contrasts sharply with the uncertainty surrounding the Selecao’s long-term structure beyond Ronaldo.

MLS as the new World Cup preparation ground

Once viewed as a retirement league, MLS has evolved into something far more strategic. Lionel Messi’s influence has changed perceptions, and others have followed. Thomas Muller and Son Heung-min have also opted for the league, drawn by its balance between competitiveness and physical management. Rodriguez’s arrival reinforces a growing trend: MLS as a World Cup launchpad rather than a farewell tour.

Last season alone, the league welcomed multiple European stars, while Messi continued to dominate headlines in Florida. For Colombia, this means their captain will be competing weekly, under controlled workloads, in a league that prioritizes athletic conditioning — a significant advantage over sporadic appearances elsewhere.

Cristiano Ronaldo was meant to be the face of a revolution, the standard-bearer for an entire league, and the centerpiece of a long-term vision. Instead, his Saudi Pro League adventure has entered a phase few anticipated.

Cristiano Ronaldo was meant to be the face of a revolution, the standard-bearer for an entire league, and the centerpiece of a long-term vision. Instead, his Saudi adventure has entered a phase few anticipated. What began in euphoria has quietly evolved into tension, mistrust, and now open defiance. Ronaldo’s recent absence from Al-Nassr‘s league fixtures was not accidental, nor was it physical. It was deliberate — and it has placed his future firmly under the global spotlight.

Behind closed doors, frustration has been building. The Portuguese star, long accustomed to projects designed around his competitive instincts, no longer believes the environment suits his ambitions. A boycott, unprecedented in scale, has become a signal rather than a symptom, raising a question that now dominates soccer discourse: if Ronaldo walks away, where does he go next?

The turning point arrived with a decision that reverberated across the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo was left out of two key matches, not through injury, rotation, or tactical choice, but by personal design. The absence was a protest, aimed squarely at the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the entity that oversees the country’s most powerful clubs.

According to multiple reports, the veteran believes PIF has failed to act neutrally, favoring certain projects over others and undermining competitive balance. The breaking point came when Karim Benzema moved from one PIF-backed club to another, strengthening a direct rival while Ronaldo’s own side lagged behind. Despite signing a record-breaking contract extension until June 2027, the 41-year-old ace has reportedly prioritized sporting legacy over financial security, even though his deal remains one of the most lucrative in soccer history.

The clubs finally emerge as speculation explodes

Ronaldo’s next destination, should he leave Saudi Arabia, spans continents, philosophies, and career narratives. One path leads back to where it all began. A return to Sporting Lisbon has been widely discussed, not purely for sporting reasons but for symbolic reasons. Lisbon represents origin, identity, and closure. While the financial hurdles would be significant, the emotional pull is undeniable, and the chance to guide a new generation may outweigh economics.

Europe remains a temptation. A return to Real Madrid has been floated, driven by nostalgia and unfinished business. Ronaldo’s history there is unmatched, but tactical concerns and squad dynamics make such a reunion complex rather than inevitable. Elsewhere, Paris Saint-Germain offers glamour, Champions League ambition, and global reach, though the club’s current youth-focused direction casts doubt on the fit. Manchester United, once home, appears all but ruled out after a turbulent second exit that damaged relationships on both sides.

Another option lies in Major League Soccer, a league increasingly positioned as soccer’s global showcase. With Lionel Messi already reigning the league, the commercial and narrative appeal is enormous. The Times reported that “MLS clubs have begun making early enquiries with Ronaldo’s camp,” though any move would likely require a substantial salary reduction. Possible destinations in the US would be LA Galaxy, LAFC, San Diego FC, Sporting Kansas City, and even Messi’s Inter Miami.

Surprisingly, Wydad Casablanca has also emerged as an outside contender, as per WhoScored. Spanish media previously reported interest from the Moroccan giant, offering the five-time Ballon d’Or winner the chance to conquer African soccer while elevating the club’s global stature. While unconventional, the move would grant leadership, legacy, and a new competitive frontier.

Saudi Arabia stay not entirely ruled out?

Despite the public nature of the protest, a complete Saudi exit is not guaranteed. A switch within the league, particularly to a stronger, trophy-ready project such as Al-Hilal, remains theoretically possible, though politically sensitive. Such a move would risk weakening the impact of Ronaldo’s stance, transforming protest into pragmatism.

Still, it’s safe to say that retirement is not on the table. The 41-year-old forward continues to chase the 1,000-goal milestone, while Portugal heads toward the 2026 World Cup as a contender. National team coach Roberto Martínez recently highlighted “25 goals in his last 30 internationals and more than 220 caps” as proof that the veteran remains decisive.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name usually defines the buildup to any Saudi Pro League blockbuster, especially when Al-Nassr prepares to face a historic rival like Al-Ittihad.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name usually defines the buildup to any Saudi Pro League blockbuster, especially when Al-Nassr prepares to face a historic rival like Al-Ittihad. Yet as kickoff approaches at Al-Awwal Park, the spotlight has shifted in an unusual direction. Ronaldo is not expected to feature, leaving Al-Nassr to navigate one of the season’s most important fixtures without its talisman. The absence has raised questions across Saudi soccer, fueling speculation that stretches far beyond team sheets and tactical plans.

Al-Nassr enters the match riding momentum, fully aware that victories at this stage of the campaign can tilt an entire title race. Al-Ittihad arrives with its own pressures, defending pride after a turbulent season that has seen upheaval both on and off the pitch. And somewhere in between stands Ronaldo, present in training, present in headlines, but conspicuously absent on matchday.

The meeting between these two sides is not just another league fixture. It is a defining moment in the Saudi Pro League calendar. Al-Nassr now sits third in the standings with 46 points, but is still chasing the summit and refusing to let the leaders escape. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, occupies sixth place with 34 points, their title defense already unraveling but continental qualification still within reach.

This was supposed to be a night defined by stars. Instead, it has become a night defined by absence. The Portuguese veteran missed the previous league match, but uncertainty lingered. He trained, he traveled, and he was photographed. Still, doubts remained over whether he would step onto the pitch against Al-Ittihad. As hours passed, reports began to align around a single conclusion: Cristiano Ronaldo would not play again.

The reason for Ronaldo’s absence revealed

The truth emerged in the days leading up to kickoff. According to multiple reports, Ronaldo’s absence is not related to injury, but rather to an escalating standoff behind the scenes.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo is deliberately sitting out matches as a form of protest. The Portuguese star is said to be unhappy with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Nassr alongside several domestic rivals. His frustration centers on what he perceives as unequal investment, particularly during the January transfer window.

While Al-Nassr faced restrictions, Al-Hilal was able to strengthen significantly, including the headline-grabbing arrival of Karim Benzema. That contrast has not gone unnoticed by Ronaldo. “Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr,” Romano reported. “His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs.” The message is clear: this is not a soccer decision, but a political one.

Solidarity inside the dressing room

The situation has reportedly created ripples within the club. Portuguese head coach Jorge Jesus has stood firmly behind his captain, even boycotting press conferences in apparent solidarity. Efforts to persuade Ronaldo to reconsider his stance have failed.

As reported by Al-Riyadiyah, “all attempts to secure Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation against Al-Ittihad have failed.” The same source added that the 41-year-old’s frustration also stems from a lack of winter signings and internal restructuring that limited the influence of his trusted administrative circle.

As Al-Nassr prepares to host Al-Ittihad under the lights at Al-Awwal Park, the Saudi Pro League once again finds itself revolving around Cristiano Ronaldo.

As Al-Nassr prepares to host Al-Ittihad under the lights at Al-Awwal Park, the Saudi Pro League once again finds itself revolving around Cristiano Ronaldo. Every major fixture in the league seems to bend toward his presence, or, increasingly, his absence. This clash carries layers of intrigue that go far beyond form, tactics, or rivalry.

For Al-Nassr, this match represents an opportunity to tighten the title race. For Al-Ittihad, it is a chance to salvage pride in a season that has drifted away from expectations. But hovering above everything is a single unresolved storyline — one that has quietly become the most talked-about issue in Saudi soccer.

On paper, the knight of Najd arrives as the form side. After 19 league matches, the club sits third in the table with 46 points, four points behind leader Al-Hilal. A difficult start to the year has given way to renewed confidence, with five consecutive league wins pushing Al-Nassr firmly back into contention. The attack has been ruthless, producing 49 goals, the best tally in the division.

Al-Ittihad’s campaign has followed a very different arc. The reigning champion sits sixth with 34 points, already 10 points off the top three. Consistency has been elusive, even though recent results show signs of recovery. A narrow win over Al-Najma kept the club unbeaten in three matches, but the sense of instability remains, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.

The rivalry itself adds extra weight. Al-Ittihad eliminated Al-Nassr from the King’s Cup earlier in the season, a result that still lingers. Meanwhile, confirmed lineups point to strong selections on both sides. Jorge Jesus will lean on Bento in goal, with a back line built around experience and physicality, while Joao Felix and Sadio Mane carry the creative burden in attack.

Sergio Conceicao, on the other hand, counters with Predrag Rajkovic, a robust midfield led by Fabinho, and pace on the wings through Moussa Diaby. Yet despite the tactical previews and statistical breakdowns, everything circles back to a single uncertainty.

Will Ronaldo play?

Midway through preparations, clarity finally emerged. Cristiano Ronaldo will not play. Multiple reports have confirmed that the Portuguese forward will miss a second consecutive league match, despite not being injured. According to Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo’s absence is a deliberate protest aimed at the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which oversees several top clubs in the league.

“Ronaldo is unhappy with the lack of investment in Al-Nassr, especially when compared to rivals,” Romano reported, noting that the forward was particularly frustrated by Al-Hilal’s winter signings, including the high-profile arrival of Karim Benzema.

ESPN echoed those claims, stating that Ronaldo even attempted to block Benzema’s move, viewing it as a distortion of competitive balance. Meanwhile, A Bola added that internal changes at Al-Nassr, including the reduced influence of executives close to Ronaldo, have intensified the standoff. Despite turning 41 years old, the Portuguese continues to train normally. Thus, his absence is symbolic rather than physical.

Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad: Confirmed lineups

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-4-3): Bento; Sultan, Martinez, Simakan, Amri; Angelo, Khaibari, Brozovic; Mane, Coman, Felix.

Al-Ittihad confirmed XI (4-3-3): Rajkovic; Shanqeeti, Pereira, Kadesh, Mitaj; Al-Julaydan, Fabinho, Doumbia; Diaby, Aouar, En-Nesyri.

Christian Pulisic did not step onto the pitch on Tuesday night against Bologna, yet his name still found its way into a chapter of Milan’s modern history.

Christian Pulisic did not step onto the pitch on Tuesday night against Bologna, yet his name still found its way into a chapter of Milan’s modern history. As the American continues to battle physical setbacks, the club pressed forward regardless, delivering another authoritative performance that quietly pushed them into rare European territory. What unfolded at the Dall’Ara was not just another away win or another clean sheet, but a night that subtly reshaped the narrative of Milan’s 2025-26 campaign.

The absence of Pulisic, dealing with bursitis near his hip, forced Massimiliano Allegri to improvise once more. And yet, even without one of their most decisive players, Milan moved with the confidence of a side that knows exactly where it is headed.

Milan’s 3-0 victory away at Bologna felt clinical, composed, and deeply symbolic. Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring in the 20th minute after intelligent work from Adrien Rabiot, setting the tone early. Christopher Nkunku doubled the advantage from the penalty spot, before Rabiot himself sealed the win shortly after the break with a left-footed finish that underlined his growing influence.

Few moments capture the transformation of the Rossoneri this season better than the arrival of Adrien Rabiot. Signed permanently this summer, the French midfielder has become the heartbeat of the team. Since his arrival, Milan has not lost a single league match, a fact that now feels impossible to separate from his presence.

His contribution against the Rossoblu—one assist and one goal—only told part of the story. The real statement came moments after Loftus-Cheek scored, when the Frenchman immediately embraced Nkunku, who had earlier missed a clear chance. It was leadership in its purest form, the kind that rarely shows up on stat sheets.

The record finally revealed

Only in the middle of this journey does the scale of Milan’s achievement fully reveal itself. With the win in Bologna, Milan extended its unbeaten run to 22 consecutive matches, a sequence unmatched anywhere else in Europe’s top leagues during the 2025-26 season.

Massimiliano Allegri’s players now boast the longest active unbeaten streak in Europe, standing alone above sides such as Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. It is the club’s longest single-season unbeaten run since the legendary 1992-93 campaign under Fabio Capello, when the Rossoneri reached 23 matches without defeat. The comparison is unavoidable, but Allegri’s Milan remains a different beast. This is not yet a finished superpower, but rather a team growing into one.

How Pulisic contributed to the record

The broader picture is just as striking. Milan has reached 50 points by matchday 23, something achieved only twice before in the three-points-for-a-win era. The Red and Blacks are already 15 points better off than last season, sitting comfortably clear of fifth place and steadily tightening their grip on a Champions League return.

Away from home, the record is even more impressive. The club remains unbeaten in its first 12 away league matches, a feat not seen since Serie A returned to a 20-team format in 2004-05. Only Bayern Munich can match that consistency across Europe’s major leagues.

Even while sidelined, Christian Pulisic remains central to the story. Milan’s top scorer with 10 goals in all competitions, the American has battled hamstring problems and now bursitis, limiting him to just three starts in the last six league games.

With Fabio Capello already weighing in, another Milan legend has now stepped forward, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the American’s difficult start to 2026.

Christian Pulisic is once again at the center of Italian soccer’s most unforgiving conversation. With Fabio Capello already weighing in, another Milan legend has now stepped forward, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the American’s difficult start to 2026. As Milan navigates a decisive phase of the season, pressure is mounting, not just on the team but on the individual expected to carry it. And when voices like Capello and Alessandro Costacurta speak, the message tends to echo far beyond a single weekend.

This is not unfamiliar territory for Pulisic. From Dortmund to Chelsea and now Milan, expectation has followed him relentlessly. What has changed is the tone. What was once admiration is now conditional, and patience is thinning as the club’s title ambitions face subtle but real threats.

Every January seems to reopen the same chapter. Christian Pulisic hits a stretch where the conversation shifts—from how good he can be to why he isn’t showing it. The Rossoneri, meanwhile, have drifted into a pattern that rarely wins championships: too many draws, not enough decisive moments, and missed opportunities against teams they should be beating.

The numbers tell the story. Pulisic has not scored since December 28 and has not registered an assist since November 23. Milan has lost just once all season, yet eight draws have eroded its margin, leaving it five points behind Inter with 16 matches to play. In a title race that tight, stars must tip games. That burden falls squarely on Pulisic, and that is where the debate intensifies.

What did Costacurta say?

Only midway through the discussion does the latest criticism emerge, and it comes from a figure whose words carry historical weight. Speaking live on Sky Italia’s Calciomercato L’Originale, Alessandro Costacurta turned his attention to Milan’s attacking unit of Pulisic, Rafael Leao, and Christopher Nkunku after a quiet winter transfer and a depleted squad.

“Milan must wait for those three or four players to improve their performance, especially in attack,” Costacurta said. “I’m talking about Rafa Leao, but also Christian Pulisic, who started well but is not feeling well now.”

The verdict was blunt but calculated. The five-time Champions League winner did not question Pulisic’s talent. Instead, he placed responsibility squarely on the player to raise his level, particularly in moments when the team needs individual quality to break deadlocks. “Nkunku also needs to give a little more,” he added. “I think Milan are hoping the players up front improve their individual performances.” This was not outrage, but expectation.

Capello set the tone earlier

Costacurta’s comments did not arrive in a vacuum. Days earlier, Fabio Capello had already opened the door to criticism following Milan’s frustrating draw against Fiorentina. Writing for La Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello focused on missed chances and a lack of ruthlessness—particularly from the American star. “Pulisic did everything thanks to Füllkrug,” Capello wrote. “The attacking duo created two or three chances out of nothing, but the American uncharacteristically missed them all.”

Then came the line that defined the discussion: “Mistakes uncharacteristic of him, like when he tried to beat De Gea instead of shooting… in that space, only Ronaldo Nazário could have beaten the goalkeeper and scored.” It was not mockery. It was a reminder of limits, and of how thin the margin is between brilliance and waste at the highest level.

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.