Samsung might finally be ready to do something with the Galaxy S27 lineup that once felt almost impossible inside the company walls: let BOE into the flagship OLED display club.

I have been covering Samsung’s display sourcing drama since the Galaxy Note 20 and S21 days, and BOE has been hovering around the Galaxy S supply chain for a long time now.

Every year, Samsung Display keeps its iron grip, but this time feels different, as the economics are impossible to ignore right now.

According to SigmaIntel’s latest OLED shipment report, via Korean ZDNet, Chinese panel makers are actively trying to secure OLED supply for Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series, particularly the standard models.

While the report avoids naming names directly, industry chatter points straight at BOE. Meanwhile, CSOT has already managed to get its foot in the door through the Galaxy A57.

Samsung Electronics wants cheaper panels. Samsung Display wants to protect its dominance. That is the real tug-of-war here. Chinese OLED makers are throwing flexible OLED panels into the market at extremely aggressive prices.

The Korean display maker still controls roughly 99% of Galaxy OLED supply. Weakening its Galaxy monopoly could create ripple effects far beyond Samsung phones. That is why BOE has repeatedly failed to secure final approval.

BOE has been aggressively targeting Samsung and Apple for years because landing flagship supply contracts changes perception overnight. Supplying panels for cheaper phones is one thing. Getting inside a Galaxy S device is prestigious.

The post Galaxy S27 might drop premium Samsung display appeared first on Sammy Fans.

We may have found a crack in the armor of some of the best camera phones on the market right now – and we want you to weigh in. If you prefer the video explanation you can head this way for our TikTok channel, Instagram or YouTube. Otherwise just read on. The vivo X300 Ultra and the Oppo Find X9 Ultra are two of the top camera phones of 2026, and although the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra can’t quite match them, it has the advantage of a lower price and a wider availability. Everyone’s focus is mostly on the rear cameras, but their selfie modules are respectable as well – the vivo and Oppo...

Match Overview

Sunderland‘s celebrated return to the Premier League has been a success, with their top-flight status comfortably secured. However, a recent dip in form has seen them struggle, particularly at the Stadium of Light. After losing four of their last five home matches, including a heavy 5-0 defeat, the Black Cats are desperate to deliver a statement performance for their fans and push for a top-half finish.

Manchester United arrives in high spirits after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool, a result that officially punched their ticket to next season’s Champions League. Under interim manager Michael Carrick, the Red Devils have experienced a dramatic turnaround. With their primary objective achieved, the pressure is off, but the expectation to dominate and finish the season with authority remains.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This match features a clash of teams on different trajectories. Sunderland started the season strong, building their success on defensive solidity, but have since seen their form and creativity wane. In contrast, Manchester United has surged under new leadership, transforming from a team in disarray to one of the league’s most potent attacking forces, overcoming an underwhelming start to their campaign.

The tactical battle will likely see Manchester United control possession and territory. The Red Devils boast the highest number of shots per game in the league and rank among the top for goals scored. Their aerial threat from players like Casemiro and Harry Maguire will test a Sunderland defense that, despite its early-season resilience, has recently shown fragility and concedes a high volume of shots.

While the biggest prizes are off the table, motivation is not lacking. Sunderland is fighting to secure a top-half finish, a significant achievement for a newly promoted club. For Manchester United, every game is a chance to build on their revival under Carrick, with players looking to solidify their roles for the future as the club prepares for a busy summer transfer window.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been dominated by Manchester United. The Red Devils have won four of the last five encounters between the clubs, establishing a clear pattern of superiority in recent years. Sunderland‘s lone victory in that span came back in 2016.

Manchester United is currently on a three-game winning streak against the Black Cats, including a decisive 2-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season. This recent history suggests United has had the tactical edge, effectively neutralizing Sunderland‘s attack while consistently finding ways to score.

Defensively, United has been particularly effective in this matchup, keeping a clean sheet in three of the last five meetings. Sunderland has struggled to find the net, failing to score in their last two games against the Red Devils and managing only three goals total across the last five clashes.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Manchester United enters the match in relatively good health, while Sunderland must cope with a key suspension and several injuries.

For Sunderland, the absence of defender Daniel Ballard due to a red-card suspension is a major blow to their backline. The team is also without goalkeeper Simon Moore and attackers Nilson Angulo and Bertrand Traoré, limiting their options and depth for this challenging fixture.

Manchester United‘s primary concern is Matthijs de Ligt, who remains sidelined with a back injury. Striker Benjamin Sesko aggravated a shin issue in the last match but is expected to be fit to lead the line. Otherwise, Michael Carrick has a nearly full-strength squad to choose from.

Sunderland Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Reinildo, Alderete, Mukiele, Hume; Sadiki, Xhaka; Le Fee, Diarra, Talbi; Brobbey.

This formation emphasizes a solid defensive base with a double pivot in midfield designed to disrupt United‘s rhythm. With key players missing, Sunderland will rely on a compact shape and look to hit on the counter-attack through their lone striker, Brobbey.

Manchester United Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Shaw, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Casemiro, Mainoo; Cunha, Fernandes, Mbeumo; Sesko.

This is a formidable attacking lineup, with Bruno Fernandes orchestrating play from the number ten role. With the dynamic duo of Mainoo and Casemiro controlling the midfield and Sesko providing a physical presence up front, United will aim to dominate the game from the start.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Sunderland vs Manchester United match on Peacock. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV, as well as on web browsers and mobile apps for iOS and Android.

In addition to the Premier League, a subscription to Peacock gives you access to other top soccer competitions, including Liga MX and various cup tournaments. It is the go-to destination for soccer fans in the United States.

A subscription costs just $10.99/mo or you can opt for an annual plan to save money. The plan gives you access to every live match, plus replays and highlights on-demand.

SEE MORE: [Link to general Premier League TV schedule]

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

A Manhattan judge modified a restraining notice to let Arbitrum DAO move $71 million in frozen Ether to Aave, while preserving terrorism victims’ legal claim on the funds.

Beşiktaş'ın gelecek sezon planlamasında Felix Uduokhai düşünülmüyor. Alman stoperin şu anda birkaç Bundesliga temsilcisiyle görüşmeler yaptığı iddia edildi.

Beşiktaş, 2024 yazında Augsburg Kulübü'ne 500 bin euro ödeyerek Felix Uduokhai'yi kiralamıştı. Sezon sonunda Alman futbolcunun 5 milyon euroluk satın alma maddesi devreye girdi. 28 yaşındaki oyuncunun Beşiktaş'la sözleşmesi 30 Haziran 2027'de bitecek. Yani 2026 yazında mukavelesinin son senesine giriyor.

İLK KEZ ÇIKMIŞTI

Felix Uduokhai, kariyerindeki ilk yurt dışı deneyimini Beşiktaş'ta yaşamıştı. 1.93 boyundaki savunmacı daha önce şu Alman ekiplerinde forma giydi:

1860 Münih

Wolfsburg

Augsburg

28 yaşındaki Oyuncunun Türkiye'deki performansı ise her zaman tartışma konusu oldu.

TANIDIK TOPRAKLAR

Felix Uduokhai'nin şu anda bazı Bundesliga ekipleriyle dirsek temasında olduğu öğnenildi. Beşiktaş Yönetimi de satış ihtimaline sıcak bakıyor. Çünkü oyuncu kalırsa, önümüzdeki sezonun ardından bedelsiz ayrılma hakkına sahip olacak. Yani Kartal 1 euro bile kazanamayacak.

Manchester United Yönetimi, fazla oynatılmayan ve mukavelesi bitecek olan Tyrell Malacia ile yola devam etmeme kararı aldı. Beşiktaş bir süredir Hollandalı sol bekin durumunu takip ediyordu.

Beşiktaş yaz döneminde kesinlikle bir sol bek hamlesinde bulunacak. Kartal'ın listesinde bulunan isimlerden biri de Manchester United forması giyen Tyrell Malacia'ydı... Forma şansı tanınmayan Hollandalı futbolcunun kontratı da 30 Haziran'da tamamlanıyor. Yani bedelsiz şekilde boşa çıkacak.

KARAR İLETİLDİ

Manchester United Yönetimi, 26 yaşındaki oyuncuya ayrılık kararını iletti. Tyrell Malacia şu anda seçeneklerini değerlendiriyor. Beşiktaş'ın kısa süre içinde 1.69 boyundaki futbolcunun menajeriyle temasa geçeceği öğrenildi. İmzalar atılırsa, Tyrell Malacia bonservissiz şekilde kadroya katılacak.

ÖNEMLİ MAÇ EKSİĞİ

Hollandalı sol bekin çok ciddi bir maç eksiği bulunuyor. Ancak bu riskin göze alınabileceği belirtildi. Beşiktaş yaz döneminde birçok takviye yapacak. Bu sebeple, bonservis bedeli bulunmayan isimlerin önemi daha da artıyor. Örneğin sol beke verilmeyecek para, sol kanat için kullanılabilir.

18 yaşındaki genç forvet Abdourahmane Mbodji'nin, Galatasaray'ın da listesinde olduğu konuşuluyordu. Senegalli futbolcu, geleceğiyle ilgili kararını verdi.

Senegal'de Generation Foot Kulübü'nün formasını giyen Abdourahmane Mbodji, birçok takımın radarında bulunuyordu. Bunlardan birinin de Galatasaray olduğu söyleniyordu. Konuyla ilgili belirsizlik sona erdi. 18 yaşındaki genç santrfor, önümüzdeki sezon Ligue 2'de mücadele edecek Metz'e katılmaya karar verdi.

OYNATILMAYACAĞINI DÜŞÜNDÜ

Abdourahmane Mbodji'nin, aralarında Galatasaray'ın da bulunduğu bazı takımlarda yeterince oynayamayacağını düşündüğü için bu yönde bir karar aldığı öğrenildi. 1.77 boyundaki futbolcunun önümüzdeki sezon Metz Kulübü'nde neler yapacağı ise şimdiden merak ediliyor...

CİDDİ GELİŞİM GÖSTEREBİLİR

Bu sezon Senegal Ligi'nde 25 karşılaşmaya çıkan Abdourahmane Mbodji, sahada 1.983 dakika kaldı. 11 gol ve 3 asist üretti. İlerleyen yıllarda çok ciddi bir gelişim gösterebileceği düşünülüyor. Elbette performansı, bonservis bedeline de yansıyacak. Galatasaray'ın yabancı forvet listesinde birçok alternatifi var. Sarı-Kırmızılılar da bu eksikliği gidermek için çalışmalarını sürdürüyor.

Foot Mercato'nun haberine göre; Galatasaray, Kasımpaşa'nın 21 yaşındaki stoperi Adem Arous'la ilgileniyor. Üstelik bu transferde birçok rakibi de bulunuyor...

Foot Mercato'dan çok konuşulacak bir haber geldi. Buna göre; Galatasaray, Rennes, Villarreal ve Monaco kulüpleri, Kasımpaşa'nın 21 yaşındaki stoperi Adem Arous ile ilgileniyor. Kasımpaşa'nın 5 milyon euro civarında bir bonservis beklentisi içinde olduğu da belirtildi.

1 GOL VE 1 ASİSTİ VAR

21 yaşındaki savunmacı, bu sezon başında Stade Tunisien Kulübü'nden alınmıştı. Süper Lig'de 19 karşılaşmaya çıktı. Sahada 1.492 dakika kaldı. 1 gol ve 1 asist üretti. Tunuslu futbolcunun 30 Haziran 2028 tarihine kadar sözleşmesi var. Tahmini piyasa değeri ise 1 milyon euro civarında...

PEKİ GÜNDEMDE Mİ?

Kulüp içinden alınan bilgilere göre; Galatasaray'ın listesinde Adem Arous bulunmuyor. Foot Mercato'nun haberi ilgi çekici olsa da Sarı-Kırmızılılar, yıldız bir stoper konusunda çalışmalarını sürdürüyor. Duruma göre; bu bölgeye yapılacak takviye sayısı da 2'ye çıkabilir.

Sezon başında 22 milyon euro karşılığında Al-Hilal'e satılan Yusuf Akçiçek'in, yaz aylarında Fenerbahçe'ye dönebileceği konuşuluyordu. Peki genç yetenekle ilgili son durum ne?

Fenerbahçe, sezon başında 22 milyon euro bedelle genç stoper Yusuf Akçiçek'i Suudi Arabistan ekibi Al-Hilal'e satmıştı. Yapılan anlaşmaya göre; Sarı-Lacivertliler'in ayrıca sonraki satıştan %15'lik pay hakkı bulunuyor. 20 yaşındaki savunmacı, 30 Haziran 2029 tarihine kadar mukavele imzaladı.

GİRİŞİMLERİ YOK

Çok uzun bir süredir, Yusuf'un tekrar Fenerbahçe'ye dönebileceği konuşuyor. Başkanlık seçimi öncesinde ise Aziz Yıldırım ve Hakan Safi'nin bu yönde bir girişimi olmadığı öğrenildi. Yani 1.93 boyundaki stoperin kısa vadede tekrar Sarı-Lacivertli formayı giymesi beklenmiyor.

GALATASARAY ALTYAPISI

Önümüzdeki yıllar ne getirir bilinmez ama Yusuf bir süre daha Al-Hilal'de kalacak gibi gözüküyor. 2019'da Galatasaray altyapısından, Fenerbahçe altyapısına geçiş yapan genç yetenek, kısa süre içinde kendisini göstermişti. Oyuncunun Al-Hilal'e satışında Galatasaray'a da 110 bin euro yetiştirme bedeli ödendi.

Beşiktaş yaz döneminde her iki kanat bölgesini de güçlendirecek. Zuriko Davitashvili için tekrar masaya oturulacak. Ancak Saint-Etienne Kulübü'nün talebi, uzun süredir aynı...

Beşiktaş yaklaşık 2 yıldır Zuriko Davitashvili konusunda nabız yokluyor. Gürcü sol kanat için defalarca pazarlık yapıldı. Sezon sonunda da tekrar masaya oturulacağı konuşuluyor. Ancak Saint-Etienne Kulübü'nün bonservis bedeli isteğinde hiçbir değişiklik yaşanmadı...

MUKAVELESİ SÜRÜYOR

Fransız ekibi, en son Beşiktaş'tan 25 milyon euro talep etmişti. 2026 yazında da aynı beklenti içinde bulunacakları belirtildi. 1.75 boyundaki futbolcunun 30 Haziran 2028 tarihine kadar mukavelesi bulunuyor. Yani Saint-Etienne, sözleşme süresi bakımından son derece rahat...

TAM BİR JOKER

Bu sezon Ligue 2'de 28 karşılaşmaya çıkan Gürcü yıldız, sahada 2.090 dakika kaldı. 13 gol ve 4 asist üretti. 25 yaşındaki futbolcu, asıl yeri olan sol kanat dışında sağ tarafta ve 10 numarada görev yapabiliyor. Zuriko Davitashvili, Gürcistan Milli Takımı'nın da önemli parçalarından... Beşiktaş, 25 milyon euroyu masaya koymazsa bu transfer yine gerçekleşmeyebilir.

Talipleri olan Felipe Augusto'nun iyi bir paraya satılması bekleniyor. Trabzonspor'un, İtalya'da Pisa forması giyen Rafiu Durosinmi ile büyük oranda anlaştığı öğrenildi. 23 yaşındaki futbolcu da tıpkı Onuachu gibi Nijeryalı...

Serie A'da küme düşen Pisa, devre arasında Viktoria Plzen Kulübü'ne 9 milyon euro ödeyerek Rafiu Durosinmi'yi kadrosuna katmıştı. Nijeryalı futbolcu, 30 Haziran 2030'a kadar mukavele imzaladı. Ancak takımın küme düşmesinin ardından ayrılmak istediğini yönetime iletti.

İYİ PARA KAZANACAKLAR

Felipe Augusto'ya ise Suudi Arabistan ekiplerinin dışında Benfica da talip... Trabzonspor Yönetimi, Brezilyalı forvetten ciddi bir gelir bekliyor. Ondan gelecek paranın bir kısmı da Rafiu Durosinmi transferinde kullanılacak. 23 yaşındaki Nijeryalı futbolcuyla kişisel şartlarda anlaşıldığı konuşuluyor.

PAZARLIK YAPILIYOR

1.92 boyundaki Rafiu Durosinmi, vatandaşı Onuachu gibi havadan çok etkili bir isim... Trabzonspor, Pisa'yla pazarlıklar yapıyor. Rakamı mümkün olduğunca aşağıya düşürmeye çalışıyorlar. 23 yaşındaki Rafiu Durosinmi'nin, gelecek yıllarda yüksek paralar karşılığında satılabileceği de düşünülüyor.

“Real”ın baş məşqçisi Alvaro Arbeloa açıqlama verib.

Futbolpress.az insayder Fabrizio Romanoya istinadən xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis paltardəyişmə otağında Valverde və Çuameninin dava etməsinin mətbuata sızdırılması ilə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb:

“Bu, düzgün deyil. Komanda daxilində olanlar burda da qalmalıdır. Yenə deyirəm, paltardəyişmə otağında olanları mətbuata ötürmək doğru deyil. Bu, “Real”a xəyanətdir”.

Almaniyanın paytaxtı Berlində Paraüzgüçülük üzrə Dünya seriyasının növbəti mərhələsi keçirilir.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, yeniyetmə paralimpiyaçımız Əli Vəliyev bürünc medal qazanıb.

O, S10 kateqoriyasında 100 metr məsafəyə “butterfly” (kəpənək) üzmə üsulunda 1:03.42 nəticə ilə gənclər arasında üçüncü olub.

“Sabah”ın baş məşqçisi Valdas Dambrauskas Azərbaycan Kubokunun finalına vəsiqə qazanan 13-cü legioner mütəxəssisdir.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə PFL-in mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.

Əcnəbi çalışdırıcılardan dördü kubok sevinci yaşayıb.

“Sabah” finalda mayın 13-də “Zirə” ilə qarşılaşacaq.

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Inter referee manager Giorgio Schenone was heard as a witness by Milan Prosecutor Maurizio Ascione on Friday, and further interrogations will be completed at the start of next week.

Referee scandal in Serie A: latest updates

Inter’s referee manager, Schenone, was heard by the Milan Prosecutor on Friday as part of a probe into alleged sports fraud, which involves five people under investigation, none of whom are from Serie A or Serie B clubs.

Former referee designator Gianluca Rocchi is among those under investigation on suspicion of having influenced VAR decisions during matches and of manipulating referee appointments.

In a wiretap from April 2025, Rocchi is heard telling VAR Supervisor Andrea Gervasoni, who is also under investigation: “They no longer want to see him [a referee] anymore.”

During the same wiretap, Rocchi and Gervasoni mention “Giorgio”, which, according to investigators, refers to Inter’s Schenone.

Corriere della Sera reports that the Nerazzurri referee manager did not receive questions regarding a meeting at San Siro on April 2, 2025, during which Rocchi is suspected of having chosen referees favoured by Inter for upcoming games against Bologna in Serie A and Milan in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal.

Investigators are trying to understand whether Schenone conveyed Inter referees’ preferences to Rocchi.

Daniele Doveri was picked for the second leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal against Milan last season so that he would be shielded for the Final, which Inter didn’t even qualify for.

What Inter Referee Manager told Milan Prosecutor

Schenone, however, argued that he had always dealt exclusively with refereeing matters and that during the 2024-25 season, Inter had Dover as referee six times, practically the maximum possible in the competition.

Schenone, nor any other Inter member, is under investigation. The Nerazzurri referee manager was only heard as a witness.

Corriere adds that there are no wiretaps involving Schiavone and Rocchi, but, on the other hand, Schenone heard several other wiretaps, mostly from spring 2025, involving Rocchi and VAR Supervisor Andrea Gervasoni and between Rocchi and Riccardo Pinzani, Rocchi’s former referee partner.

Former AIA President Antonio Zappi and new Referee Designator Dino Tommasi were also questioned on Friday, mostly about the activity in the VAR room in Lissone.

According to the report, the Milan prosecutor will complete further hearings between Monday and Tuesday next week.

Rocchi, in the meantime, has once again informed prosecutors that he does not intend to answer the Prosecutor’s questions, exercising his right to remain silent.

José Mourinho insists Iran deserve to play at the World Cup, which Portugal can win, and feels Zinedine Zidane embodied the concept of elegance: ‘Marco Materazzi might get mad at me…’

Former Inter and Roma coach Mourinho gave a long interview to Sport Week, discussing his life and career.

Ex-Roma star Nicolò Zaniolo once described Mou as a ‘master’, saying the Portuguese tactician could almost perfectly predict what would happen during matches.

Mourinho predicted Zaniolo’s winning goal in Conference League Final

“Almost,” Mou replied, smiling.

“One thing I had predicted and actually happened was that Zaniolo would score the decisive goal in the Conference League Final between my Roma side and Feyenoord.”

During the same interview, Mourinho admitted that he’d leave Inter for Real Madrid again and was then asked to name a player who “embodies the concept of elegance.”

“The first name that comes to mind is Zinedine Zidane,” Mourinho said.

“Marco Materazzi might get mad at me for saying it, but watching Zizou play was pure beauty.”

When asked about his favourite city as a coach, Mou replied: “The most important thing is to be with the people I love. It could even be the Sahara Desert. To me, anyway, the most beautiful city in the world is Rome.”

Lastly, the Benfica tactician spoke about the upcoming World Cup as well: “Portugal can do anything. They have an incredible generation. They won the Nations League a year ago. We won the Euros in 2016, and this generation is technically superior to that team. Of course, there is Carletto Ancelotti’s Brazil, Argentina, but Portugal can win this World Cup.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed Iran’s participation in the competition, yet there are still doubts on whether they’ll actually take part in the tournament due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Donald Trump’s Special Envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has been reiterating that Italy should replace Iran if they don’t show up for the World Cup in June.

“One thing is politics, one is sport,” Mourinho concluded.

“The Iranian players who have qualified for the World Cup, which will involve too many teams, deserve to play it.”

Paris Saint-Germain reportedly expect to have Achraf Hakimi, Lucas Chevalier, and Warren Zaire-Emery back for the Champions League final against Arsenal.

PSG recently booked their place in the final for a second year in a row after beating Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate in the semi-finals, while Arsenal advanced past Atletico Madrid.

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Fans of both clubs will surely already be looking into how to buy Champions League final tickets, but what players will be available to play in the big game in Budapest?

According to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins in the X post below, PSG manager Luis Enrique should have Hakimi back after he missed the second leg against Bayern, while there’s also optimism over Chevalier and Zaire-Emery…

Champions League final injury updates

??Absent pour la qualification du PSG face au Bayern Munich en demi-finale retour de Ligue des champions, Achraf Hakimi est espéré pour la finale contre Arsenal, le 30 mai prochain. L'optimisme est aussi de mise pour Lucas Chevalier.

Luis Enrique va gérer les organismes lors des… pic.twitter.com/AAXaZjKfZp

— Fabrice Hawkins (@FabriceHawkins) May 9, 2026

“Absent for PSG’s qualification match against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final return leg, Achraf Hakimi is hoped to be available for the final against Arsenal on May 30 next,” Hawkins posted.

“Optimism is also in order for Lucas Chevalier. Luis Enrique will manage player workloads during the upcoming matches. Some starters returned from Munich with minor aches and pains that are nothing serious. That’s the case for Warren Zaïre-Emery, for example, who has a slight back issue. The staff’s goal is to have the full squad available for the Champions League final.”

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Can Arsenal beat PSG in the Champions League final?

Arsenal will surely be the underdogs against the reigning European champions, especially as they’ve had such bad luck with injuries this season.

PSG have a less demanding schedule and so look set to have everyone available for this big game, whereas Arsenal still have some hugely important games coming up in the Premier League title race.

More Stories / Latest News

Update on PSG trio’s fitness and chances of returning vs Arsenal in Champions League final

May 9 2026, 11:21

France can win World Cup but Kylian Mbappe could cause “trouble”, says 1998 winner

May 9 2026, 11:03

Euro giants more likely than Tottenham to sign 27 G/A star in deal that impacts Man Utd

May 9 2026, 10:39

Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino are out at the moment, and there have been on-and-off issues for other big names like Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Riccardo Calafiori all season.

Mikel Arteta surely needs as many options available to him as possible if he is to stand any chance of an upset against PSG at the end of this month.

The post Update on PSG trio’s fitness and chances of returning vs Arsenal in Champions League final appeared first on CaughtOffside.

France can win the 2026 World Cup but Kylian Mbappe’s ego has the potential to cause “trouble” for Didier Deschamps’ side, according to Emmanuel Petit.

Mbappe is one of the best players in the world on his day, and has a great history at the World Cup, scoring for Les Bleus in their final victory in 2018, and even bagging a hat-trick as they lost on penalties to Argentina in 2022.

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Still, Petit has his concerns about how Mbappe fits into this France team, with the former Arsenal midfielder and World Cup winner with France back in 1998 making it clear he feels the Real Madrid star needs to play on the left.

Petit says he wants to see Mbappe out wide rather than up front, with Ousmane Dembele taking up that central role, and with Michael Olise on the right-hand side.

Kylian Mbappe could be an issue for France at the World Cup

Discussing how Mbappe could impact France’s World Cup hopes, Petit told the Sun: “Mbappe is playing up front as a striker. Dembele is playing up front as a striker. Ask Didier Deschamps, the French manager, ‘Who is going to play?’

“If I am Didier Deschamps, for me it’s very simple. Ask Kylian Mbappe to play on the left, the way he was brilliant for years with Paris Saint-Germain.

“Ask Dembele to play up front as a striker, and I ask Olise to play as a right winger.

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“If you do like that, I’m pretty sure France will win the World Cup. If you don’t do that and you want to go the same way that Madrid has been doing with Kylian Mbappe then you’re going to have trouble.

“Egos in the dressing room will come out, and the trouble will start in the team.”

Can France win third World Cup?

France have won the World Cup twice before, in 1998 and 2018, and they’ll be one of the favourites for this year’s tournament in North America.

More Stories / Latest News

Update on PSG trio’s fitness and chances of returning vs Arsenal in Champions League final

May 9 2026, 11:21

France can win World Cup but Kylian Mbappe could cause “trouble”, says 1998 winner

May 9 2026, 11:03

Euro giants more likely than Tottenham to sign 27 G/A star in deal that impacts Man Utd

May 9 2026, 10:39

France are in Group I with Senegal, Norway, and Iraq, and will hope to avoid a repeat of 2002 when they lost their opening group game against Senegal and ended up exiting the tournament early.

Mbappe could prove a difficult character for Deschamps to manage, and it will be an interesting situation to watch if this talented squad once again suffers from too many competing egos.

The post France can win World Cup but Kylian Mbappe could cause “trouble”, says 1998 winner appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Juventus and Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in a potential transfer swoop for Marseille forward Mason Greenwood.

The former Manchester United attacker’s future is in some doubt this summer after issues at Marseille, but it looks like he won’t be returning to the Premier League.

According to TEAMtalk, it seems unlikely that Greenwood will reunite with Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham, so he could continue his career elsewhere in Europe.

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Given how things ended for Greenwood at Man Utd, it’s no surprise that English teams are likely to back away from making a move for him, even if he has rebuilt his career in France.

Mason Greenwood transfer would be too toxic for Premier League clubs

Greenwood looked like a superb talent when he first broke through at United, and he’s been in fine form for Marseille this season with 20 goals and seven assists.

However, there is no escaping the fact that the 24-year-old is likely to be seen as too toxic for clubs after reports of him being charged for assault, as per BBC‘s reports from a few years ago.

This led to United suspending Greenwood and he hasn’t played for the Red Devils since.

More Stories / Latest News

Update on PSG trio’s fitness and chances of returning vs Arsenal in Champions League final

May 9 2026, 11:21

France can win World Cup but Kylian Mbappe could cause “trouble”, says 1998 winner

May 9 2026, 11:03

Euro giants more likely than Tottenham to sign 27 G/A star in deal that impacts Man Utd

May 9 2026, 10:39

De Zerbi’s arrival as Tottenham manager was also seen as controversial due to his backing of Greenwood when they were together at Marseille.

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Spurs would surely not risk further backlash by bringing in the former England international this summer, but it will be interesting to see how his career can progress at Juve or Atletico.

The post Euro giants more likely than Tottenham to sign 27 G/A star in deal that impacts Man Utd appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Verdict: Home win Best odds: 5/8 Bookmaker: Olympusbet The La Liga title race may well end on Sunday, when Barcelona welcome arch-rivals Real Madrid to the Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday evening. Hansi Flick’s side only need a point from this clash to retain their status as the Spanish champions, while things really don’t look […]

The post Prediction: Barcelona vs Real Madrid appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: Barcelona vs Real Madrid appeared first on Soccer News.

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Some were surprised when the Washington Commanders selected Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis in the 2026 NFL Draft. It was sort of silly for anyone to be surprised, given that it was a seventh-round pick and quarterback is the most important position on the field.

Sam Hartman hasn't exactly panned out as a potential long-term backup to Jayden Daniels, so Washington, like any good organization, is taking a flier on a young quarterback who has played a lot of football. Kaliakmanis will battle for the No. 3 spot in training camp, unless the Commanders bring in another veteran, like Jeff Driskel to play behind Daniels and Marcus Mariota.

Washington also has a new offensive coordinator, David Blough, who undoubtedly had some say in the Kaliakmanis pick.

On Friday, Kaliakmanis took the field for the first time as a Commander on the opening day of the team's rookie minicamp. After practice, he revealed that he received a text from Daniels shortly after being drafted.

"Jayden texted me, actually, after I got drafted, which was pretty cool," Kaliakmanis told reporters. "And I just got put in a group chat with all of the other QBs, so I can't wait to meet them. Big resumes on every single one of them. Grew up watching some of them, too. Really, really excited to meet them."

Athan Kaliakmanis says Jayden Daniels texted him after Washington picked the Rutgers QB to congratulate him pic.twitter.com/ylA0FMNC8o

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) May 8, 2026

He's right, all of Washington's current QBs, including the OC Blough, have impressive resumes. Daniels and Mariota are former Heisman Trophy winners and No. 2 overall picks in the NFL draft, while Hartman started 57 college games between his time at Wake Forest and Notre Dame.

Kaliakmanis is no slouch either, having started 42 career games between his time at Minnesota and Rutgers, both Big Ten schools.

It's nice to see Daniels reaching out to Kaliakmanis immediately after he was drafted. It shows leadership, which is no surprise considering everything we know about Daniels. The 2026 season will be the third year where Blough, Daniels, Mariota and Hartman are together. It's a tight-knit room, but there will be a competitive battle for the No. 3 quarterback job once training camp begins in July.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels reached out to Athan Kaliakmanis

The hype is real surrounding Notre Dame football and its fate involving the 2026 college football season.

Rece Davis, the host of ESPN’s College GameDay recently went on record that he believes that the Irish will break its title drought dating back to 1988 by winning the College Football Playoff this coming campaign. He’s not the first to make this prediction, as Notre Dame has everything you are looking for in a title contender.

They return an elite defense with stars at every level, but most importantly, quarterback CJ Carr. He’s expected to take another leap following his first-year starting, one that could propel him into the NFL draft as a first-round pick.

Head coach Marcus Freeman has assembled an elite group of talent, most likely the most that he’s had since taking over the program. Recruiting has been fantastic over the last few cycles, and the influx of high-end players through the transfer portal has filled gaps in the roster.

Notre Dame is one of the favorites to win the championship this fall, and if it does come to fruition, the program could go to levels that has not been seen in a long time.

TRENDING: College GameDay Host Rece Davis has named Notre Dame as his pick to win the National Championship this season.

He joins Media personalities like Mark Ingram & Stanford Steve on the list of guys who think the Irish will win their first Title since 1988.… pic.twitter.com/SRdQpufO5q

— Ryan Fravel (@Fravel_Ryan) May 9, 2026

Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (Formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.

Follow Mike on X: @MikeFChen

This article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: College football expert predicts Notre Dame to win the 2026 CFP

Texas A&M basketball is in great shape under coach Bucky McMillan, who is entering his second season at the helm after leading the Aggies to the NCAA Tournament, including an appearance in the Round of 32 before eventually falling to 2-seed Houston. This success was not expected after McMillan, who was the final Power 4 coach hired last April, had to build his entire roster from the transfer portal.

Senior forward Rashaun Agee led the Aggies in scoring and rebounds during his one and only season in College Station, and while he will be tough to replace, the addition of seven players from the transfer portal, led by former Kansas State guard PJ Haggerty, who averaged nearly 24 points per game last season, has replenished a roster that was lacking size and a go-to scoring option.

Returning to the roster, forwards Zach Clemence, Jamie Vinson, and Mackenzie Mgbako could all slot in as starters, combined with Haggerty and former NBA G-League guard Bryson Warren, while former LSU guard Jalen Reece is a player on the rise and should serve as the sixth man to provide an offensive spark off the bench.

However, after landing LMU transfer forward Jalen Shelley, Texas A&M's size disadvantage last season has officially ended, as Shelley easily fit in as the starting wing and became a reliable scorer near the rim. While McMillan will likely add at least one more forward to finish the roster and head into the summer, college basketball analyst Any Katz placed the Aggies No. 32 in his preseason Top 40.

With the controversial news that the NCAA Tournament will expand to a 76-team field, predicting any team's future at this point is simply speculation, but it's clear that this new roster possesses the traits needed to thrive in Bucky McMillan's fast-paced, high-scoring system.

🚨 The FIRST-EVER #Power44 from @TheAndyKatz is in 🚨

1. Duke
2. Florida
3. Michigan
4. Illinois
5. Tennessee
6. UConn
7. Arizona
8. Arkansas
9. Texas
10. Michigan State pic.twitter.com/awqFok4o37

— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) May 7, 2026

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M basketball ranked 32nd in Andy Katz' Power 44 rankings

The much-anticipated 2026 NFL schedule release is right around the corner.

We know the regular season matchups, with dates to be determined. The 2026 schedule features intriguing showdowns that could potentially be a Super Bowl 61 preview.

Will the Seattle Seahawks defend their title? Can the New England Patriots make it back to the Super Bowl? The Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks, Baltimore Ravens and Buffalo Bills currently have the four best odds to win Super Bowl 61, according to BetMGM.

SUPER BOWL ODDS: Rams, Seahawks lead the way after 2026 NFL Draft

NFL SCHEDULE: Home and away matchups for all 32 teams

The roadmap to Super Bowl 61 in Los Angeles gets clearer once the schedule is released.

USA TODAY Sports predicts five possible Super Bowl 61 previews during the 2026 regular season.  

1. Los Angeles Rams vs. Buffalo Bills

Josh Allen was visibly emotional after Buffalo squandered a Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow-less postseason. It's unlikely Allen will be able to avoid his QB rivals during a potential playoff run this year. New Bills head coach Joe Brady is under a lot of pressure to get the team further than his predecessor, Sean McDermott. DJ Moore’s arrival is intriguing. Is he the No. 1 wide receiver Buffalo’s been looking for since Stefon Diggs? We’ll find out a lot about Moore when he’s matched up against Rams CB Trent McDuffie.

Puka Nacua and Davante Adams should have a decided advantage versus Buffalo’s secondary. The Rams' offensive line versus Ed Oliver, Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb is an interesting matchup in the trenches.

This interconference tilt is at SoFi Stadium, the site of Super Bowl 61.

2. Denver Broncos vs. Seattle Seahawks

The defending champions have a road date in Denver during the regular season. The game presents a juicy matchup between 2025 NFL Offensive Player of the Year WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba and 2024 NFL Defensive Player of the Year CB Patrick Surtain. Smith-Njigba had just one catch for 10 yards when covered by Surtain in their lone meeting in Week 1 of 2024, but Smith-Njigba wasn’t Seattle’s primary option then. Sam Darnold’s ability to handle Denver’s constant pressures is a key factor in this battle. The Broncos have led the NFL in sacks in each of the past two seasons.

Sean Payton and the Broncos have to feel like their bad injury luck cost them a chance to represent the AFC in Super Bowl 60. Bo Nix is expected to be ready by training camp after a clean-up procedure on his right ankle. Denver re-signed its leading rusher in J.K. Dobbins and bolstered its wide receiving corps with the acquisition of Jaylen Waddle. This Broncos squad appears to be more talented than last year’s group.

3. Los Angeles Rams vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Nobody expects the Chiefs to have two straight losing seasons, right? Patrick Mahomes is rehabbing and eyeing a Week 1 return. The addition of Super Bowl 60 MVP RB Kenneth Walker III will help ease the load off Mahomes and the passing game. On defense, the Chiefs found their Trent McDuffie replacement in Mansoor Delane. The return of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy shouldn’t be understated, either. He helps bring accountability to the offense.

The Rams have the most talented team in the NFL entering the season. There’s a reason why they have the best odds (+800) to win Super Bowl 61. The Rams addressed their biggest weakness – pass defense -- this offseason by trading for McDuffie and they sealed a free-agent deal with Jaylen Watson. Matthew Stafford’s durability is a concern at his advanced age, but the 38-year-old didn’t play like a QB pushing 40 during an MVP campaign last season.

More: Patrick Mahomes is 'ahead of schedule'

4. Philadelphia Eagles vs. Houston Texans

Houston’s defense versus Philadelphia’s offense is bound to generate storylines pre- and postgame.

The Texans had a Super Bowl-caliber defense last season, but the unit couldn’t withstand C.J. Stroud’s postseason regression, coupled with five interceptions, which equaled a playoff-high with Bears’ Caleb Williams. The latest out of Houston is Stroud has put in the work this offseason as he hopes to rekindle his 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year magic behind a rebuilt offensive line. The Texans had the NFL’s No. 1 defense last season and are set to return all its key players, plus they added safety Reed Blankenship.

It’s hard to count out the Eagles. The status of A.J. Brown looms large for Philadelphia. With or without Brown, the Eagles’ offensive identity shouldn’t change. They should be a run-oriented football team. New offensive coordinator Sean Mannion’s primary job is to be able to marry the run game with the pass game and revamp what was a basic scheme. The Eagles supplemented the loss of Jaelan Phillipswith Jonathan Greenard. Plus, Philly’s top-10 pass defense should be even stronger with the pickups of corners Riq Woolen and Jonathan Jones.

2026 NFL SCHEDULE: Here's what we already know

5. Seattle Seahawks vs. Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs’ odds to win Super Bowl 61 are at +1600. They are tied with their AFC West rival, the Chargers, for the best Super Bowl odds in the division. Kansas City’s chances are dependent on Patrick Mahomes’ health. The Chiefs' offense should be better with Kenneth Walker III, who will have a revenge matchup against his former club. It’s going to be interesting to see if Rashee Rice can be the go-to target the Chiefs need him to be with an aging Travis Kelce. The Chiefs’ overhauled secondary is expected to start slowly but should improve as greater continuity develops. Rookies Mansoor Delane, Peter Woods and R Mason Thomas could all make immediate impacts on Kansas City’s defense.

The Seahawks’ dark side defense is bound to provide a big test of the Chiefs – plus they know Walker well. Seattle boasted the NFL’s top scoring defense and ranked in the top 10 in both pass rush win rate and run stop win rate last season, per ESPN.

Aside from being a possible Super Bowl 61 preview, this game provides the requisite storylines of a good regular-season opener. The Seahawks can raise their Super Bowl 61 banner, Mahomes’ presumptive return to action, Smith-Njigba vs. Delane, Walker faces his former team and Seattle’s dark side defense against Kansas City’s offense all generate intrigue.

More: Ranking NFL's possible season opener matchups: Who gets first crack at Seahawks?

Honorable mentions:

• New England Patriots @ Detroit Lions
• San Francisco 49ers @ Los Angeles Chargers
• Baltimore Ravens @ Dallas Cowboys

Follow USA TODAY Sports' Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2026 NFL schedule release: Ranking 5 mostly likely Super Bowl 61 showdowns

Midfielder Sam Clucas and defender Tom Anderson are among four players being made available for transfer by Shrewsbury Town.

Clucas, 35, scored twice in 40 appearances during the 2025-26 campaign, while Anderson, 32, played 35 games as Town finished 19th in League Two.

Forwards Ricardo Dinanga and Callum Stewart have also been told they can find new clubs following non-league loan spells during the season.

Captain John Marquis, meanwhile, is one of 10 players to be released by the club when their contracts expire.

Marquis, 33, scored six goals in 43 appearances this season, having joined Shrewsbury from Bristol Rovers in 2024.

Also departing is former Portsmouth midfielder Anthony Scully, who scored five goals in 35 games, along with Mal Benning, Harrison Biggins, Alex Gilliead, Nick Freeman, Jack Loughran, Isaac Godwin, Karsten Cairns and Joe Morris.

Left-back Benning, 32, had been with Shrewsbury since 2023 and played 21 times this season.

Defenders Luca Hoole and Josh Ruffels and midfielder Taylor Perry are considering new deals offered by the club.

• Defender Benning leaving Salop at end of season

There are transfer stories that feel procedural and generated by the media, and then, there are those that feel realistic and quite symbolic. The growing noise around Alejandro Balde firmly falls in the latter category.

FC Barcelona being open to offers is not just about the player or how talented he is. It is about a club that is still caught between financial stability and football identity.

Balde’s name surfaces not because he is surplus, but because he is valuable and one of the more sellable assets in the squad, young, homegrown and crucially profitable on paper.

This is where the danger begins.

Because when a club starts seeing its most unique profiles as accounting opportunities, it risks repeating an all-too-familiar cycle. Balde is not yet a finished article, but he is on his way to becoming a solution in the future.

The case for selling: logic, not emotion

Let’s be clear here: the argument to sell Balde is not completely irrational. In fact, it is precisely because it sounds reasonable that it must be carefully dissected.

There are concerns and real ones at that. His percentile radar, as shown in the data, paints a fascinating but incomplete player.

Defensively, he stands out, with elite duelling success in the 98th percentile, strong recovery presence and excellent ball retention under pressure. These are not minor traits. They are structural.

But, the attacking side tells a different story.

His progressive passing sits low. His crossing output lacks consistency. The scatter plot reinforces this theory, depicting high ball-carrying frequency but limited progression through passing.

He moves well on the pitch but doesn’t always connect well, especially in the final third.

For a player tasked with holding the entire left wing in Hansi Flick’s system, such numbers do not make an argument in his favour.

Then, with Balde, there is also the case of availability. Injuries have been a constant part of his career so far, interrupting his rhythm and preventing continuity, the one thing young players generally need the most.

The version of Balde that exploded on the scene and kept Jordi Alba out has not been seen enough in the coming years.

And Barcelona, as always, need money. Immediate, tangible money.

So yes, if you reduce the football to columns and numbers, the argument writes itself: sell now, invest and reinforce. But football needs to be looked at beyond the mere numbers.

The hidden value that data fails to capture

The same data that raises doubts also quietly defends him. Balde’s ball carrying remains elite. His ability to break lines of pressure with the ball at his feet isn’t just frequent; it’s instinctive.

His ball-carrying template highlights this clearly: high penetration, high speed, but low effectiveness in final actions.

The last phase does not mean Balde cannot produce. It is just that this aspect of his game is underdeveloped, as things stand. That is something that is very coachable.

His post-recovery sequences tell another story, one that is easy to miss if you only focus on assists and crosses.

A 92.4% passing accuracy after regaining possession, controlled transitions and immediate forward intent.

He is not chaotic. He is selective. More importantly, he is not a player who is failing. He is just unfinished.

The tactical truth: speed is not optional

Barcelona’s current and future tactical structure, at least as long as Hansi Flick is in charge, demands something very specific from its full-backs.

In a team that pushes high, presses from the front and compresses space, defensive speed becomes non-negotiable. It is what allows risk to exist in the first place and Balde is fundamental to that.

His defensive duel percentile shows that he is a safety net. When Barcelona lose the ball high, more often than not, he is the best bet to stop a transition.

Therefore, replacing Balde is not just about finding another left-back. It’s about finding one who can match his recovery pace, carry the ball through pressure, understand positional play and still have room to grow.

That player does not exist easily. And certainly not for €50 million.

Yes, there is Cancelo, who they can choose to keep permanently, but his strengths and Balde’s are as different as night and day.

The illusion of the “complete” full-back

Modern football has created a dangerous expectation: every full-back must be complete.

Cross like a winger, defend like a centre-back, and create chances like a midfielder. Balde is not that player. Not yet.

Selling Balde would be a mistake. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

To be fair, very few in world football are. Balde’s current limitations, particularly in crossing and final-third decision-making, are often symptoms of a team still searching for attacking clarity.

Fix the structure, and you often fix the player. Sell the player, and you reset the problem.

In many ways, Barcelona have a complete full-back in their ranks between Balde and Cancelo and even that is a luxury for most teams around the world.

La Masia, identity, and the cost of impatience

There is also a deeper layer to this conversation. Balde is not just a left-back. He is part of a lineage.

A La Masia graduate. A player who understands spacing instinctively. A footballer shaped by the club’s positional DNA rather than imported into it. Barcelona have spent years trying to rebuild that identity.

Selling Balde would be a contradiction. A club preaching development wouldn’t do themselves in favours by cashing in on an elite talent prematurely.

The onus is on the club to help him develop into a better version of himself.

Not perfect but necessary

All this leaves Barcelona with a decision that feels fairly simple but isn’t. Yes, Balde has flaws. His game needs refinement. His output must improve. His body must hold up. None of these can be ignored.

But, crucially, none of this justifies a sale this summer. Not at this stage of Barcelona’s rebuild.

Because what Balde offers is far more valuable than a paycheck can. Selling him would solve a short-term problem. Keeping him, however, could solve a long-term one.

Balde has a lot of years left to spend in a Blaugrana jersey, and let’s hope the club think along the same lines and resist pulling the plug prematurely.

*Data source: Tools developed by X/pranav_m28 and DataMB

With the tournament in North America edging ever closer, the honorary president of FC Bayern Munich remains far from convinced by the current state of the German national side.

Speaking in an interview with the FAZ, Hoeneß took aim at Nagelsmann’s approach and in particular the absence of a settled starting XI. “If Germany manages to become a cohesive team even though the coach hasn’t managed to field the same starting eleven twice in a row – then we have a chance,” Hoeneß explained.

The 74-year-old had already voiced similar concerns in a recent interview with DAZN, where he argued that Nagelsmann rotates too frequently and is still yet to establish a clear system or preferred lineup.

Now, however, Hoeneß has sharpened his criticism even further. “I can’t say that at all, because the German team has never played with the same lineup twice in a row,” he said when discussing Germany’s World Cup prospects.

Hoeneß also questioned the uncertainty surrounding several major positions within the squad.

“Who is our center forward? Who plays goalkeeper? Who is the right-back, who is the left-back?” he asked publicly before warning: “If things continue like this, we will end up sending a team onto the pitch for the first World Cup match that has never played together before. And that’s unacceptable.”

Later in the interview, Hoeneß appeared to draw an indirect comparison between Nagelsmann and Vincent Kompany, praising the work currently being done at Bayern Munich.

“The situation is the same as with us. Before the season, everyone said: The squad is too small, the squad isn’t good enough,” explained the long-time Bayern chief.

In Hoeneß’s view, Kompany succeeded in doing exactly what Germany are currently lacking. “But then the coach improved all the players, and above all, he forged them into a team.”

The Bayern honorary president then delivered what many will interpret as a direct swipe at Nagelsmann’s philosophy. “But our national coach believes he’ll win the game. No, the team will win the game,” the 74-year-old declared.

With those remarks, Hoeneß underlined his belief that success at international level is built less on experimentation and tactical reshuffling, and more on creating a settled, united team capable of functioning together on the pitch.

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa spoke to the press this Saturday in a press conference ahead of Sunday’s (10) clash against Barcelona, El Clásico.

And, as expected, the fight between Valverde and Tchouameni was one of the most discussed topics.

The coach gave his version of the controversy involving his teammates, who were punished and fined by the merengue club.

I am very proud of the club’s firmness, speed, and transparency. And also of the fact that the players acknowledged their mistake, showed remorse, and apologized. For me, that is enough."

"Valverde and Tchouameni deserve for us to turn the page and give them a chance to keep fighting for this club. I am very proud of them. I will not allow this to be used to cast doubt on their professionalism: it is a lie that they are not professionals or that they have disrespected me... it is absolutely untrue," the coach stressed.

On top of that, Arbeloa guaranteed that Tchouameni will be included in the squad for El Clásico and said he is "very happy with the work of his four captains."

Controversies involving Carvajal and Mbappé

The manager also denied reports of problems with some players, such as Carvajal. "It is a lie that any of them are not playing because of problems with me or because of their life outside Real Madrid. I am the first person responsible for the fact that the season is certainly not up to standard. But I have been here for four months and I am very proud of my players."

"What I am not going to do is burn them at a public stake, because they do not deserve it," Arbeloa stressed, also saying that he sees a "healthy dressing room."

Asked about Mbappé’s attitude, the coach was direct: "Anyone who wants to take out of context the fact that a player leaves training smiling is distorting things. I can only vouch for him, for his work and for the way he treats me. When he played, it was because he deserved it, and when he did not play, it was because someone else deserved it more."

Betrayal and leaks

Finally, Arbeloa did not hold back in criticizing the reports that came out of the dressing room: "For things that happened inside the dressing room to be leaked seems like a betrayal of Real Madrid and its badge to me."

"I am not accusing my players, or anyone. There are a lot of people at Real Madrid and I am not here to point the finger at anyone. What happens with my players will stay between them and me," he concluded.

Sunday’s El Clásico will be played at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, with kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m. (Brasília time).

Barcelona come into the clash as clear leaders with 78 points, holding an important advantage at the top of the table.

Real Madrid are right behind them in second place with 72 points.

With only four rounds left in the championship after this weekend, the match at the Santiago Bernabéu is the last big opportunity for Los Blancos to cut the gap and reopen the La Liga title race.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Liverpool could put themselves on the brink of Champions League qualification this afternoon if they extend Chelsea’s losing streak in the Premier League to seven matches when the teams meet at Anfield at lunchtime.

Three points for the Reds, coupled with Bournemouth failing to win at Fulham later in the day, would ensure that Arne Slot’s side are in Europe’s primary club competition for next season with two matches to spare in this campaign.

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It’s a scenario which seemed rather fanciful just a few weeks ago when, either side of the spring international break, LFC suffered sobering defeats away to Brighton, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, but a post-Easter revival has improved the outlook significantly.

Liverpool will be without the likes of Mo Salah, Hugo Ekitike and Alisson Becker for the visit of Chelsea, although the Reds boss was hopeful on Friday of having Alexander Isak and Giorgi Mamardashvili back fit for this game.

The starting XI for this afternoon’s fixture has now been confirmed.

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Liverpool starting XI to face Chelsea

There are three changes from the Liverpool side which began the defeat at Old Trafford last weekend.

Mamardashvili has indeed returned between the sticks, while Milos Kerkez is restored at left-back in place of Andy Robertson. Curtis Jones is set to continue at right-back, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate the central partnership as usual.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister start in midfield once more, although one change to the attack sees Rio Ngumoha come in to start in place of Florian Wirtz, who’s absent from the matchday squad.

There is at least a return for Isak on the bench, with Robertson’s experience providing the antidote to the youthful exuberance of fellow substitutes Kieran Morrison, Trey Nyoni, Will Wright and Mor Talla Ndiaye.

Mamardashvili; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Frimpong, Szoboszlai, Ngumoha; Gakpo.

You can view the Liverpool starting XI and substitutes below, via @LFC on X:

Chelsea face Liverpool at Anfield in the Premier League in just over an hour, and the team news for the game is in!

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Robert Sanchez’s nasty collision on Thursday has ruled him out of this game, meaning Filip Jorgensen returns to play in goal for the first time since his horror error against PSG in the Champions League.

After that, things get weird. It looks like a back three, with Wesley Fofana, Jorrel Hato and Levi Colwill at centre back.

Marc Cucurella and Malo Gusto would then be a wing backs. Moises Caicedo and Andrey Santos play as the double pivot, with Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez playing off Joao Pedro up top.

That means Romeo Lavia and Trevoh Chalobah, regulars from recent games, have been dropped.

The formation change was predictable, given we’re so short of attacking options. Liam Delap is the only senior attacker on the bench. Ryan Kavuma-McQueen and Mathis Eboue are called up from the youth team.

Reece James, sounded close to being fit for a start today, is also present on the bench.

Here are the full team line-ups for Liverpool vs Chelsea (kick off at 12:30 GMT)

CHELSEA:

Chelsea’s team to face Liverpool.

In other news…

Joe Cole has suggested that Chelsea could bring in two veteran free transfers this summer to help the rest of their squad.

Chelsea are set to compete with Crystal Palace for two of their top manager targets it seems.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CHELSEA NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON THE APP STORE

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

The English Football League (EFL) has charged Southampton after accusations of spying on their play-off opponents Middlesbrough ahead of their first-leg clash on Saturday.

The charges relate to “alleged unauthorised filming on private property” ahead of the game.

“Southampton Football Club has today been charged with a breach of EFL Regulations, and the matter will be referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission.,” the EFL said in a statement.

“This follows a request from the EFL for the club’s observations after a complaint from Middlesbrough relating to alleged unauthorised filming on private property ahead of the two clubs meeting in Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship Play-Off semi-final first leg.

“Under EFL Regulations, Southampton would ordinarily have 14 days to respond to the charges. However, given the nature of the matter, the EFL will ask the Independent Disciplinary Commission to shorten the response period and to list a hearing at the earliest opportunity. ”

Southampton response

“Southampton Football Club acknowledges the statement issued by the EFL in relation to alleged breaches of EFL Regulations.

“We can confirm that we will be fully cooperating with the League throughout this process.

“Given the ongoing nature of the matter, the club is unable to comment any further at this time.”

LPL 2026 draft introduces bizarre rule: 250k followers on social media needed to register as Icon or Star player originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Sri Lanka's Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 demands 250k+ social media followers for Icon and Star player registration in their draft.
• Foreign player registration portal opens May 8, closing on May 18, 2026.
• The sixth LPL edition runs from July 10 to August 5 across four venues.

No followers, no deal! What do the Lankan Premier League registration rules say?

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) had published the player category qualification criteria ahead of the sixth season of the LPL, and the document covers six distinct categories: Icon, Star, Gold, Classic, Associate Stars, and Local Emerging U23 players. And one condition stands out for all the wrong reasons.

Both the Icon and Star categories carry identical social media conditions; a following exceeding 250,000, described as essential alongside a large fan base and commercial appeal.

MORE: Is it the end of captain SKY era? Suryakumar Yadav's IPL and T20I form could cost him India spot

The Gold category sets the bar slightly lower at 150,000 followers. Classic and Associate Stars categories list fan base and commercial appeal as requirements, but stop short of putting a number on it.

The Local Emerging U23 category, reserved for Sri Lankan players under 23 who were born after July 1, 2003, has no such social media clause at all.

Whereas, cricketing eligibility requires that icon players must have played 75 T20 internationals, over 100 franchise T20 matches, and at least 30 matches in the past 18 months. Whereas, Star players require 50 T20Is, over 100 franchise games, and 30 matches in the last 18 months.

However, it has been reported that after facing significant online backlash, the condition has been reportedly revoked.

MORE: IPL 2026 Crackdown: PBKS bans Arshdeep’s vlogging

When does the LPL registration window open?

The online portal for overseas player registration opened on May 8, 2026, and can be accessed through the official SLC website at www.srilankacricket.lk. The window will stay open until May 18.

When does LPL 2026 start?

LPL is scheduled to run from July 10 to August 5. It is a return to the mid-year calendar slot the LPL had previously occupied.

This edition had originally been pencilled in for late 2025, with dates between November 27 and December 23, but SLC pushed it back to prioritise venue renovation for the men's T20 World Cup, which Sri Lanka co-hosted with India earlier this year in February and March. 

The Cricket News Opinion: When did cricket become an influencer contest?

The social media follower rule, to put it plainly, was odd. The idea that a cricketer with 10,000 T20 internationals under their belt and 249,999 followers somehow falls short of the Icon standard is the kind of logic that makes you question the eligibility criteria.

The LPL is a young tournament still building its identity. Chasing social media reach through player criteria rather than through the quality of cricket on show felt like the wrong shortcut. The removal of the condition is a step in the right direction.

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

Even after losing the likes of Nick Boyd and John Blackwell, the Wisconsin Badgers are still among Andy Katz's top 44 teams.

In the first-ever Power 44, Wisconsin earned a No. 36 ranking. Duke, Blackwell's new home, tops the rankings at No. 1.

Fellow Big Ten teams, No. 3 Michigan, and No. 4 Illinois, find themselves in the top five. In total, 12 Big Ten teams were in the Power 44.

Katz may have the Badgers as a bottom-nine team in this set of rankings, but even making the Power 44 proves there's still a lot Wisconsin has to look forward to next season.

🚨 The FIRST-EVER #Power44 from @TheAndyKatz is in 🚨

1. Duke
2. Florida
3. Michigan
4. Illinois
5. Tennessee
6. UConn
7. Arizona
8. Arkansas
9. Texas
10. Michigan State pic.twitter.com/awqFok4o37

— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) May 7, 2026

All in all, Austin Rapp and Nolan Winter are the only returning players in Greg Gard's starting lineup. There's still time for things to change, but incoming freshman Owen Foxwell, along with transfers Trey Autry and Eian Elmer are projected to round things out.

Gard's incoming freshman class has some talent, and he did a great job in the portal as he also brought in Victory Onuetu. A good majority of his bench players are returning for the 2026-27 season, one that would be considered a success if the Badgers simply made it out of the first round.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin men's basketball earns bottom-nine ranking in Katz' Power 44

Liverpool Confirmed Starting XI vs Chelsea

Liverpool return to action after last Sunday’s 3-2 defeat to Manchester United and Arne Slot will be hoping for a reaction from his players.

The Reds host Chelsea at Anfield, where a win would secure Champions League qualification for next season. 

Prior to the defeat to Man United, Liverpool had won three games on the bounce against Fulham, Everton and Crystal Palace.

Chelsea have had their own struggles, losing their last six Premier League games and only scoring one goal in that run.

Interim head coach Calum McFarlane remains in charge, after Liam Rosenior was sacked after the 3-0 defeat to Brighton two weeks ago.

Liverpool Team News

Giorgi Mamardashvili returned to training yesterday and could replace Freddie Woodman in goal. Alisson Becker remains absent.

After a brief scare this week, Ibrahima Konate is available for selection. The same applies for Florian Wirtz, who missed training on Wednesday through illness.

Alexander Isak also returned to training yesterday and is in contention for a return, but Mohamed Salah will just miss out on this occasion.

Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Stefan Bajcetic, Jayden Danns and Hugo Ekitike all remain sidelined with long-term issues.

Liverpool Confirmed XI

Liverpool XI: Mamardashvili, Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Frimpong, Gakpo, Ngumoha.

Liverpool and Chelsea have confirmed their starting lineups for this afternoon's Premier League clash at Anfield.

The Reds were narrowly defeated last time out against bitter rivals Manchester United, while Chelsea suffered a shock defeat at home to Nottingham Forest.

Both sides will be searching for a crucial three points today, with the Reds closing in on qualification for next season's Champions League, while Chelsea face a fight to stay within contention for European qualification overall.

The big news for Liverpool is that striker Alexander Isak returns to the squad and has a place on the bench, while goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is back fit and in the XI.

Florian Wirtz, however, misses out through illness.

So, here's a look at how both sides shape up at Anfield in the early Premier League kick-off.

Who will come out on top today?

There will be nine international games taking place this season in the NFL, two of which will be played by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Before the NFL schedule release on May 14, one analyst attempted to predict who the Jaguars' opponents would be for those two games.

What we do know right now is who the Jaguars 17 opponents will be in 2026 and that they will be the home team for the two London games, which narrows down the pool of potential opponents.

As the home team this season, the Jaguars are scheduled to face Houston, Tennessee, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington, and New England.

So who does CBS Sports' John Breech think the Jaguars will play in their two games in London?

His first prediction is that the Jaguars play an AFC opponent -- either Cleveland or Tennessee, is Breech's guess.

"On the AFC side, let's start with the Titans," wrote Breech. "The NFL usually tries to avoid sending divisional games overseas, but it has happened before. As for the Browns, they've never played an international game as the visiting team, so this would break new ground."

The second game, Breech predicts, will be against an NFC team -- either Philadelphia or Washington.

"On the NFC side, there are only two options: the Eagles or Commanders," Breech wrote. "Although Washington is already set to host a game in London this year, the NFL could have the Commanders play back-to-back games there, with one as the home team and one as the visiting team. As for Philadelphia, the Eagles have only played two international games in franchise history, which is tied for the second-fewest in the league, so the NFL could send them abroad."

Playing in London has become the norm for the Jaguars. Except for the 2020 NFL season, the Jaguars have played in London every year since 2013. This will be the third time that they will have played back-to-back games in London as well.

Overall, the Jaguars are 7-7 in those 14 games played abroad.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 2026 NFL schedule: Analyst predicts who Jaguars play in London games

It’s not every day a UFC fighter threatens to shoot another Octagon combatant.

With UFC 328 just hours away, how did we get to the point that Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland are openly threatening one another and throwing kicks at face-offs? This is a very high-level matchup and interesting style clash that would surely draw well already, yet it feels like the feud is only ramping up further as the bout approaches.

Before the Middleweights actually throw down with gold on the line, let’s establish a timeline and explain how this beef began in the first place.

Origins

In 2022, Khamzat Chimaev and his Smesh Bro Darren Till visited Las Vegas to train at Xtreme Couture, Sean Strickland’s primary gym. At the time, Chimaev was still a Welterweight contender, getting ready to fight Nate Diaz at UFC 279. When the two were competing in different divisions, they were willing to train together and seemed friendly enough.

“Be nice,” Strickland told Chimaev. “Khamzat, understand you’re better than everybody, so just don’t hurt people.”

Who got the better of those sparring sessions remains a topic of debate to this day.

Title Contentions

In the fall of 2023, Sean Strickland was UFC champion, while both Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis were angling for a shot at Dricus du Plessis’ Middleweight crown. At UFC 294, Chimaev picked up a close majority decision win over a very short-notice Kamaru Usman in one of the toughest tests of his career. Strickland was not impressed by the win and argued that Chimaev’s Welterweight success shouldn’t equal a Middleweight title fight.

“The only thing I like about Chimaev is that he sells fights,” Strickland said. “For some reason, people f—ing like him or don’t like him. I don’t know. To me, he’s a f—ing paycheck. He sells a lot of fights. People pay to watch, but he f—ing hasn’t earned it. He doesn’t f—ing deserve it, but here we are.”

A month later, UFC snubbed Chimaev and awarded du Plessis the shot at UFC 297.

Gym War Stories

The feud began to escalate when stories of the sparring session emerges.

At first, rumors claimed that Welterweight “Borz” dominated the top Middleweight contender in their 2022 training sessions. Strickland’s coach denied that narrative, and Strickland himself claimed to have gotten the better of Khamzat. No video was released at the time, but both fighters insisted they were the better man in the training room.

“He said he beat me in sparring,” Chimaev said in July 2024. “But there were a lot of guys around who saw me choking him and beating him up. It was even recorded on camera. So, we also have some unfinished business. It would be good to see who’s better inside the Octagon.”

Getting Personal

Ahead of the du Plessis vs. Strickland rematch at UFC 312, the beef between Strickland and Chimaev really started to heat up. On social media, Chimaev made fun of Strickland for his emotional appearance on the Theo Von podcast (watch it), where Strickland discussed his abusive upbringing.

“Why are you baby crying all the time?” Chimaev tweeted above a picture from 2011 of Strickland with his dad. “Father didn’t give you love or he showed his love to you too much?”

Strickland went ballistic in response. He went after Chimaev’s fancy new United Arab Emirates passport and relationship with Chechen dictator Ramzan Kadryov.

“Here’s the thing, my dad did hit me with some beer bottles once or twice lmao,” Strickland replied. “I will admit it, made me the man I am today … but I guarantee this little w—re sucked off Kadyrov … obviously not good enough because you had to flee your country.”

This would not be the last time Strickland attacked Chimaev’s relationship with Kadryov, and Chimaev brought up Strickland’s abusive father just last week! Alongside the gym drama, these are the two primary motifs of their feud.

An Inactive Champion?

In February 2026, Strickland trashed Chimaev for failing to defend his belt following his August 2025 victory over du Plessis. Again referencing Kadyrov, Strickland argued that “Borz” has no motivation to bother defending his belt because of his financial backing.

“It’s kinda weird what the UFC did with Chimaev,” Strickland said. “You brought a guy in that fights once a year who’s like Madonna, who gets like, how much money does that dictator give him under the table? Like, the guy doesn’t need to fight, dude. He’s best friends with a warlord. He doesn’t need to fight. Dude gets gifted G-Wagons.”

“So you have somebody who is just gonna sit on a belt and wait and wait until they force him to fight. They wanted him to fight Nassourdine [Imavov], whatever the guy’s name is. He’s like, ‘Oh, I don’t wanna fight you, my brother.’ Like, what are you talking about? It’s not how the sport works, dude. Like, go fight that guy!”

One month later, Khamzat vs. Strickland was official for UFC 328.

Extra Curricular Violence

In the couple months since the matchup was booked, the big concern has been violence expanding outside of the Octagon. Even UFC CEO Dana White admitted that extra security was needed to keep the duo apart and ensure the fight could play out as planned!

“If he dies, he dies.”

Strickland, naturally, did very little to calm the situation. When he was in the same part of southern California as the champion, he dropped his location and invited a street fight. Khamzat pointed out that Strickland was all alone and susceptible to getting jumped by the massive “Borz” entourage, and Strickland answered simply that he would shoot them.

“All I’m gonna do, I’ll pull my gun out of my shoe,” Strickland replied. “If [Chimaev] were to come up to me like a man and say, ‘You know what, Sean? You said some things about my dad [Ramzan] Kadyrov.’ And I’m like, well you know what dude? You wh–ed yourself out, not me. ‘I wanna settle this.’ I would say, ‘Let’s settle this like men.

“But if you come up to me with three f–king Chechens that don’t speak English, I’m gonna pull my gun and I’m gonna shoot each and every one of you,” he added.

Fortunately, no shots have been fired. At the UFC 328 pre-fight presser, Khamzat did manage to land a cowardly kick to the nuts, which is currently the extent off the pre-fight action. For further fisticuffs, we’ll (hopefully) have to wait until the main event gets started later tonight.

If you’re of a certain age, you may remember the SNL skit Taco Town, a satirical send up of American restaurants’ tendency to embiggen portion sizes until they challenge the very concept of human dignity. In the sketch’s most memorable line, a babyfaced Andy Samberg yells “Pizza! Now that’s what I call a taco!”

I yelled that same thing myself with the recent news that the NCAA basketball tournament is expanding to 76 teams starting next year. I’m not terribly sentimental about college basketball since I only watch it in the spring as tourney time nears, but this is a craven decision that no fan wants and that will only make the sport worse and less interesting. It signals, once again, a growth-at-all-costs mindset on the part of the sport’s leadership (meaning Greg Sankey and Tony Petitti) with no regard for the fans or the student-athletes (are we still calling them that?).

What concerns me more is that this probably means a 24-team football playoff is inevitable. 

Realistically, the 24-team format was probably a foregone conclusion as soon as the BCS shuffled off this mortal coil. I suppose we should count our blessings that it took more than a decade for the greedy vampire squids who run this sport to decide to woodchipper it beyond recognition. If you’re in favor of a bigger playoff, I won’t try to change your mind. But as I remain a disciple of Senator Blutarsky, here are my reasons for skepticism. 

The Regular Season Is Meaningless (for Some Teams)

On this week’s episode of Split Zone Duo, Bill Connelly said that a 24-team playoff means Ohio State will never play another meaningful regular season game again. The same is probably true for a dozen other major brands in the sport who are never going to be in danger of missing the playoff. Even as a fan of a team in that group, that’s bad!

The traditional narrative about college football is that it had the Most Important Regular Season of any sport because so few teams earned a title shot. For most of the sport’s history, a team had almost no margin for error if it wanted to fulfill its greatest ambitions. Now, with 24 spots, mulligans for the bluebloods will abound. Losing to a rival may sting, but it won’t derail a season like it once did. Of course, thanks to NIL and more player freedom, a dark horse may break through — Indiana is the reigning champion, after all — but more chances for established powers with better player development systems and better prep recruiting will likely serve to consolidate titles in the same hands. 

I’m not saying we have to stuff the genie all the way back in the bottle, but 12 playoff spots is enough. Sometimes we need a postseason without Ohio State, Alabama, and even GASP Georgia in it for the games to have stakes. 

It’s Not About Inclusion

I think most people are cynical enough about the motives of college football leadership to know that the expanded playoff isn’t designed to give the G6 more opportunities. But take a look at the final CFP rankings from last year. There are only three G6 teams on the list, with two of them ranked below an 8-4 Iowa team despite having fewer losses. Plus, the committee has already implemented rule changes to prevent two G6 teams from ever making the 12-team field again after the debacle with Duke winning and ACC and Notre Dame getting left out last year.

Sankey and Petitti aren’t going to advocate for a bigger playoff so they can see Navy or East Carolina vying for a championship. In a 24-team field, spots 18 through 24 are primarily going to an 8-4 Mizzou team. What you’re going to get is the Reliaquest Bowl rebranded as a playoff game.

The Expanded Playoff Won’t Solve Coach Firings/Buyouts

One of the reasons I’m most certain that expansion is coming is because coaches are consolidating around the idea. That’s probably because they believe a bigger playoff means better job security. Coaches can point to making the playoff field as evidence of success for their program to engender goodwill and keep themselves employed. 

Well, coaches, I have bad news for you. When you take this job, you’re holding a wolf by the ears. What the boosters want is a championship, not making the field, and they behave as responsibly with their money as a sailor on shore leave. Gone are the days where a Mark Richt-type will get a decade-plus to deliver a national title. 

Do you think I’m wrong about this? Well, let’s look at some recent trends. Gus Malzahn set a record with a buyout of just over $21 million when Auburn fired him at the end of the Covid season in 2020. That’s after he nearly won a national championship in his first year and almost made the playoff again in 2017 to say nothing of his work as OC there prior to his head coaching stint. Since then, Jimbo Fisher, Brian Kelly, James Franklin, and Mark Stoops have all eclipsed that total. Fisher has a national championship, Kelly is the winningest coach in the history of one of college football’s legacy programs, Franklin is the second-winningest coach in Penn State history, and Stoops is the winngest coach in Kentucky history. But none of them won a title at that current school, and that’s what mattered.

One team out of 138 can win a championship each year. Everybody else is in danger of the pink slip, and making the tournament as a 15 seed isn’t going to save you for long.

The Controversy Won’t Go Away 

After last season ended with a stupid, engineered controversy, I wrote about how further expansion wouldn’t solve the problem. There is no way to objectively determine a champion in a sport with this bizarre structure. That’s the whole point! If anything, expanding the playoff will just make the arguments worse and more annoying.

I don’t know what it will take to get me to stop watching college football, but I have a feeling I’m going to find out.

Tim Walter makes two changes from the victory over Braunschweig as Ivan Nekic and Umut Tohumcu replace Ikem Ugoh and Frederik Roslyng.

Petrik Sander makes one change from the win against Hertha as Dariusz Stalmach comes in for Silas Gnaka. 

Confirmed Holstein Kiel vs. 1. FC Magdeburg lineups

Holstein Kiel (4-5-1): Weiner (GK) - Rosenboom, Zec, Nekic, Ivezić - Kaprálik, Meffert, Davidsen, Tohumcu, Therkelsen - Harres

1. FC Magdeburg (4-3-3): Reimann (GK) - Bockhorn, Mathisen, Hugonet, Musonda - Stalmach, Michel, Ulrich - Nollenberger, Żukowski, Atik 

Follow Michael Whitaker On X

While the Detroit Red Wings missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season, their American Hockey League affiliate in Grand Rapids is halfway to capturing its third Calder Cup championship.

The Griffins closed out their series against the Manitoba Moose with a 5-2 victory at Van Andel Arena, powered by a pair of goals from Carter Mazur and a highlight-reel tally from Axel Sandin-Pellikka.

SURVIVED & ADVANCE 🫡 pic.twitter.com/ewJIHfAv5F

— y-Grand Rapids Griffins (@griffinshockey) May 9, 2026

With the win, Grand Rapids advanced to the Central Division Finals, where they will battle the Chicago Wolves, the AHL affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes. 

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features. 

Mazur, Detroit's third-round selection (70th overall) in the 2021 NHL Draft, upped his playoff goal total to four with his second straight two-goal performance for the Griffins.

This season with the Red Wings, he appeared in eight games but didn't register a point. 

Sandin-Pellikka, who made the Red Wings' roster out of Training Camp, scored a highlight-reel second-period goal for the Griffins, who also got goals from Michael Brandsegg-Nygård and Eduards Tralmaks.

It was Tralmaks who opened the scoring in the first period on the power-play for Grand Rapids. While Manitoba knotted the score, Sandin-Pellikka restored the lead, and Brandsegg-Nygård added an early third-period tally.

Axel Sandin-Pellikka Scores Filthy Goal For Griffins Detroit Red Wings defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka, who has his first year in the NHL under his belt, will be on highlight reels everywhere.

Like Sandin-Pellikka, Brandsegg-Nygård also made Detroit's roster out of Training Camp, but was returned to the Griffins after registering an assist in 12 NHL games. 

After making it 4-1, Mazur added his second goal of the evening into the vacated Moose net with goaltender Thomas Milic, who was making his first start of the series, on the bench for an extra attacker 

Griffins goaltender Michal Postava continues to author an impressive stretch of play in his first season in North America, making 19 saves. 

Game 1 between the Griffins and Wolves is scheduled for Thursday in Grand Rapids. 

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Toledo Mud Hens 10, Memphis Redbirds 4 (b0x)

Sawyer Gipson-Long returned off the injury list for this one, and was pretty meh, but he did a lot better than lefty Pete Hansen did against the Hens.

Gipson-Long gave up two runs in the top of the first, and then another run before departing in the fourth.

It mattered little as the Hens scored seven in the second inning. Max Anderson led off with a double to left and Jace Jung singled to right. A sacrifice fly from Corey Julks scored Anderson, and Tyler Gentry walked. A soft serve single from Tomas Nido loaded the bases, and a Ben Malgeri grounder scored Jung but forced Gentry at third. Max Clark striped a line drive single to right to score Nido, and Paul De Jong walked. A Gage Workman triple cleared the bases, and Workman then scored on a wild pitch after the Redbirds had gone to the bullpen to replace Hansen. 7-2 Hens.

Workman doubled with one out in the fifth and took third on a wild pitch. Anderson walked, and Jung singled in Workman. A grounder to second from Julks went for an error, and Anderson scored to make it 9-3. Workman would then double in DeJong in the sixth to make it 10-3.

Woo-Suk Go fired three scoreless innings in the sixth, seventh, and eighth in his return to Toledo.

Workman: 3-5, 2 R, 4 RBI, 2 2B, 3B, 2 K

Jung: 2-3, R, RBI, BB

Gipson-Long: 3.1 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, BB, K

Coming Up Next: The series is even heading into a 5:05 p.m. ET start on Saturday.

Erie SeaWolves 9, Harrisburg Senators 1 (box)

The SeaWolves got a decent outing from Joe Miller and played well behind him in this one as they pounded out 14 hits to win easily once again. Currently the SeaWolves are in the opposite gear of the Whitecaps, winning their ninth straight on Friday.

Andrew Jenkins singled and scored on an Izaac Pacheco single in the second inning to start the scoring. In the third, Aaron Antonini walked and rode home on Brett Callahan’s sixth home runs of the season. Chirs Meyers would single in Jenkins later in the inning to make it 4-0 SeaWolves.

In the fourth, Callahan reached on a fielder’s choice and then stole second, scoring on a John Peck single. In the fifth, Jenkins and Meyers both singled, and with one out, Pacheco singled in Jenkins and Joe Campagna tripled in Meyers and Pacheco to make it 8-0.

A Pacheco error led to the Senators scoring a run on Milleri in the fifth. Yosber Sanchez cleaned this up and tossed a perfect sixth as well. Luke Taggart handled the seventh. Trevin Michael tossed the eighth.

Thayron Liranzo has been scuffling since his return from the injured list two weeks ago, but he led off the ninth with a solo shot hitting right-handed. Tyler Owens closed this one out and seems bound for Toledo again fairly soon. Woo-Suk Go was promoted to Toledo on Friday as well after a strong start to the year.

Jenkins: 3-5, 3 R

Callahan: 1-5, 2 R, 2 RBI, HR, K, SB

Pacheco: 2-5, R, 2 RBI, 3 K

Miller: 4.2 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 3 K

Coming Up Next: It’s a 6:00 p.m. ET start in Harrisburg on Saturday.

Dayton Dragons 8, West Michigan Whitecaps 0 (box)

The misery of the Whitecaps continued as their losing streak stretched to 12 games on Friday night.

There isn’t too much to report. Rayner Castillo’s struggles continued as he allowed a pair of home runs and four runs, three earned total. He struck out three and walked three over 4 1/3 innings, and there’s still no sign of the easy 95-96 mph sinker he was slinging in 2024 and early 2025.

Carlos Lequerica was knocked around for four runs in relief. Garrett Pennington had the only two hits for the ‘Caps. Bryce Rainer had the night off.

Pennington: 2-4, 2B

Castillo (L, 0-4): 4.1 IP, 4 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 3 K

Coming Up Next: It’s a 2:00 p.m. ET start on Saturday.

Lakeland Flying Tigers 11, St. Lucie Mets 4 (box)

Troy Melton fired three perfect innings in his rehab outing, and the Flying Tigers mauled a pretty good pitching prospect in the Mets’ Cam Tilly.

Melton struck out five and needed just 27 pitches to collect those nine straight outs. His velocity wasn’t quite peak, but he was 95-96 mph the whole outing, racking up a ton of whiffs on fastballs and sliders.

Jude Warwick gave him an early lead to work with when the second baseman cracked a solo shot in the bottom of the first inning. That was his first of the year. It would be Warwick sparking an eight-run inning off Tilly in the third. He led off with a double, and Jordan Yost singled. Zach MacDonald lined a single to center that got away from the Mets center fielder and Warwick scored. Beau Ankeney cranked a three-run shot to make it 5-0, and Carson Rucker followed that up with a triple. Edian Espinal and Javier Osorio followed with singles, and by the time the Mets went to the bullpen, Warwick was up again and smoked a three-run shot to right field to make it 9-0 Lakeland.

Conner Seabold rehabbed with a solid inning in the fourth. Jan Carabello took over and had some trouble, giving up four runs in the fifth and sixth innings. Jose Guzman gentled the Mets down with two scoreless innings.

In the eighth, Carson Rucker doubled in MacDonald, and Espinal tripled in Rucker to make it 11-4 where it ended.

Warwick: 3-5, 3 R, 4 RBI, 2B, 2 HR, K

Rucker: 3-5, 2 R, RBI, 2B, 3B, K

Yost: 2-4, R, BB

Espinal: 2-4, R, 2 RBI, 3B, BB, K

Melton: 3.0 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 0 BB, 5 K

Coming Up Next: The Flying Tigers are up 3-1 in the series with first pitch on Saturday set for 6:00 p.m. ET.

Q: Ira, I thought it was interesting when I spun the lottery machine and it came up with the Heat at No. 2 (total transparency, it took 21 tries), they had the Heat taking Darryn Peterson over Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson. Isn’t another big man what we need? – Lance.

A: What a team that finished in 10th place in consecutive seasons and has been in the play-in the last four years needs is talent. And with silky scoring ability, Darryn Peterson arguably stands as too talented to overlook. Yes, there is not much in the Heat power rotation at the moment beyond Bam Adebayo and Kel’el Ware, and, yes, the Heat have Tyler Herro and other wing options. But the Heat previously went for size over best available (in 2020, with Precious Achiuwa over Tyrese Maxey) and highly doubt they would go in that direction again. All of that said, the Heat would be ecstatic in such a loaded, top-heavy lottery to wind up with any of the first four picks. There might be hard decisions there, but seemingly also ample easy answers.

Related Articles

• Submit your “Ask Ira” question here!

Q: Some of the teams that lost in the first round seem interested in moving some of their players. Do you see any trade opportunities for the Heat with these teams?  – Jake, Hollywood.

A: Always. But the issue also is the waiting game with Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. Look, has there ever been a time when the Heat didn’t chase Kevin Durant when it was believed he could be on the move? Plus, the draft lottery could leave any of the lottery teams with potential redundancies on their roster. We should know more about trade options in coming days, especially as the second round of the playoffs winds down. Remember, as soon as a team is eliminated from the playoffs it can make trades with any other team that is eliminated (with impending free agents off-limits).

Q: If we gutted the team for Giannis Antetokounmpo, are we even that much better than the Bucks? – Scout.

A: Guess that comes down to what you think of a potential Heat starting lineup of Bam Adebayo, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Andrew Wiggins, Norman Powell and Davion Mitchell.

Manchester United’s Focus Shifts After Champions League Qualification Secured

With Champions League qualification for next season now secured, Michael Carrick has a chance to rotate his Manchester United squad as they prepare to face Sunderland. The Red Devils clinched their place in Europe’s elite competition following a dramatic 3-2 victory over arch-rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford last weekend.

This victory not only confirmed their Champions League spot with three games still to play but also marked United’s first Premier League double over Liverpool in a decade. United’s dominant performance against Liverpool effectively ended their two-year exile from the Champions League, meaning they cannot finish lower than fifth this term. The result was a huge boost for Carrick, further solidifying his credentials as the club’s next full-time manager, even though an official decision regarding his future has yet to be made.

The Importance of Finishing Strong

Carrick is determined to finish the campaign as strongly as possible. Though their primary goal has been accomplished, he remains focused on enhancing his long-term job prospects. He’s also hinted at giving opportunities to some of United’s fringe players during the final three matches of the season.

Photo IMAGO

“I think every player in the squad has been absolutely fantastic, I have to say,” Carrick commented at his pre-Sunderland press conference. “Some have played a lot more than others, and I understand from a professional and a playing point of view it can be difficult, but the togetherness and the support that the players have shown, certainly each other, is great to see.”

Carrick also acknowledged the challenges of managing training intensity with fewer matches to play. He stated, “It’s what we need within the group and that’s part of the challenge of doing a lot of training and not having as many games as we would have liked. It’s the balance that we’ve made the most of really, so coming into these games it’s something we’re aware of. I think it’s really something we’re keen on playing well and still trying to get good results as well, but it’s definitely something to be aware of.”

Sunderland’s Struggles Continue

While Carrick will be tempted to make changes, the opposition on Saturday, Sunderland, will not be an easy task. The Black Cats are struggling for form, drawing 1-1 with relegated Wolves last time out. Sunderland are now stuck in 12th place, five points behind the top six, and will be keen to secure an important win to boost their chances of finishing higher.

Sunderland will need a turnaround in fortunes, but it remains unclear if United will rotate their squad for this encounter, particularly with a few injury concerns. United will be without striker Benjamin Sesko, who came off at half-time against Liverpool after aggravating a pre-existing shin injury. He was replaced by Amad Diallo during that match after a collision with Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate.

Injury and Squad Updates

Further complicating United’s selection is the absence of Matthijs de Ligt, who is still recovering from a lower back injury. His return remains uncertain. However, Carrick will be pleased with the return of Lisandro Martinez, who has served his suspension and is set to bolster the defence.

Additionally, Patrick Dorgu, who made his first appearance since January off the bench against Liverpool after recovering from a hamstring injury, may now be in line for more game time. Carrick will likely give more opportunities to squad members like Joshua Zirkzee, Mason Mount, Manuel Ugarte, and Noussair Mazraoui, as he looks to finish the season with strong performances.

Predicted Manchester United XI Against Sunderland

With a few changes expected, here’s how Manchester United may line up against Sunderland in a 4-2-3-1 formation:Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo.

2025 First Round pick Jake O’Brien has been reassigned to the Coachella Valley Firebirds.  His season with the Brantford Bulldogs of the OHL came to an end May 4th after a game 7 loss to the Barrie Broncos in the conference final.  

O’Brien put up a 1.75 points-per-game average in the regular season: 28 goals and 65 assists across 53 games played.  In the playoffs, he skated in 15 games and added 6 goals and 17 assists.  The 8th-overall pick is best known for his ability to thread his way through his opponents, anticipating their movements and sneaking pucks over, under, around, and through the smallest openings.  His uncanny ability to predict not only his opponents, but also his teammates’ movements allows him to create chances from the most untenable situation.  

Similar to Ryden Evers, it is unlikely that O’Brien will see any playing time in Coachella Valley.  Instead, he will have the opportunity to practice with the team and get familiar with the facilities and coaching staff.  With the recent rule changes allowing 19-year old first round picks to play in the AHL, it is entirely possible he will be with the team full-time in the 2026 season.

Related:

Firebirds Force Game Five With 6-2 Win Over ReignFacing elimination, Coachella Valley unleashed a second-period surge and a dominant six-goal performance to stun Ontario, keeping their playoff dreams alive for a decisive winner-take-all showdown.

A good gauge of the depth of a team's roster is seeing how many other teams covet your players. That's what happened to the New York Giants this week after they cut ties with four players to make room for their incoming rookies.

On Thursday, after the team inked several members of their 2026 draft class, they cut defensive lineman Elijah Chatman, linebacker Swayze Bozeman, wide receiver Courtney Jackson, and defensive lineman Marlon Tuipulotu.

On Friday, three of those players had already caught on with other teams, a true indication that the Giants' roster building the past few years has been heading in the right direction.

Bozeman, Chatman, and Jackson, who were all waived, landed jobs, leaving Tuipulotu, who had his contract terminated, the lone free agent.

Bengals claim LB Swayze Bozeman off waivershttps://t.co/B9h8kHtyqGpic.twitter.com/oaqrKLgFc7

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) May 8, 2026

We've claimed DT Elijah Chatman via waivers

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) May 8, 2026

The Titans claimed WR Courtney Jackson off of waivers from the Giants pic.twitter.com/aQTcz8HJko

— Giants Nation Show (@GiantsNationPod) May 8, 2026

The Giants have been adding quality players up and down the roster this offseason, and there simply is not enough room for everyone. Chatman and Tuipulotu are victims of a numbers game. The Giants have been stockpiling defensive linemen in the wake of the Dexter Lawrence trade.

Chatman, who made the Giants' final roster in 2024 as a UDFA, appeared in 22 games over his two seasons in Blue. He is a bit undersized for these new Giants (278 pounds), who are favoring stout interior linemen.

Tuipulotu was signed to a reserve/futures deal this past winter. A former draft pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, he spent the past two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, playing in five games. He is expected to draw interest in the market this summer.

Jackson, signed to a reserve/futures contract in February, was one of 12 wideouts on the roster, and his chances of making the 53-man roster were remote.

Bozeman played six games for the Giants last season and was primarily used on special teams. The Giants had 14 linebackers under contract, and there was little opportunity for Bozeman.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: 3 recently released New York Giants have found new homes

Texas A&M baseball opened its road series in Oxford with a frustrating 5–3 loss to Ole Miss, a game defined by offensive inconsistency and a lineup still reshuffling due to multiple injuries.

Ole Miss capitalized early on free passes to build a lead, while the Aggies didn’t break through until the top of the fifth, trimming the deficit to 3–2. A misplayed ball in the outfield in the seventh inning allowed two more Rebels runs to score, pushing the margin back to 5–2. A&M added one more run late but couldn’t complete the comeback.

The Aggies struck out 15 times and stranded nine runners, generating plenty of loud contact but rarely in the right moments. The bottom of the order, filled with new faces, managed just one hit all night.

Normally, A&M would have two days to reset, but with expected weather in Oxford, the Aggies now face a Saturday doubleheader with national hosting implications on the line.

Below is all the information for the series:

GAME SCHEDULE

Game 2 - May 9 at2 p.m. CT

Channel: SEC Network +

Texas A&M: RHP Aiden Sims

Stats: 8-1, 3.60 ERA, 65.0 IP, 68 K, 18 BB

Ole Miss: RHP Cade Townsend

Stats: 5-1, 2.42 ERA, 52.0 IP, 73 K, 13 BB

______________________________________________

Game 3 - May 9 at 6 p.m. CT(subject to change)

Streaming: SEC Network+

Texas A&M: TBD

Stats: N/A

Ole Miss: RHP Taylor Rabe

Stats: 3-4, 4.17 ERA, 61.2 IP, 62 K, 9 BB

WAYS TO FOLLOW THE SERIES

TV/Streaming: SEC Network+ / ESPN App

Radio: Locally Sports Radio 1150/93.7 The Zone

Social: Follow the @AggiesBaseball on X for updates

Internet: 12thMan.com / 12th Man Mobile app for live play-by-play

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Jarrett Johnson on X: @whosnextsports1.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: UPDATE: Texas A&M baseball vs Ole Miss schedule change due to weather

The title is out of Manchester City's hands now after their 3-3 draw at Everton, but their late equaliser on Monday could still turn out to be huge.

City getting a point means Arsenal still have to win their final three games to be sure of being champions, so it is not over yet.

Pep Guardiola's side definitely have to win this game, though, and to do it they will have to be more ruthless in front of goal.

Brentford are in the mix for the top six and only lost narrowly to City earlier in the season.

I am being selfish here, but just for my Fantasy team I need Erling Haaland to have a strong finish to the season so I am going for City - and him - to get among the goals on Saturday.

Sutton's prediction: 3-1

Read the full predictions and have your say here

When Matt Ryan was asked about the Falcons' quarterback competition recently he admitted that he doesn't know what to expect. It's a fair sentiment at this point, because nobody knows exactly when Michael Penix Jr. will be fully recovered from his ACL tear and we're not entirely sure who will start Week 1 for Atlanta.

That being said, the smart money right now is on Tua Tagovailoa filing that role. Tagovailoa is healthy and will likely get a lot more QB1 reps over the summer while Penix is still working his way back.

Tua has had his moments during his time with the Miami Dolphins, but heading into the 2026 season at least one analyst considers him a below-average starter. According to a new ranking from Andrew Buller-Russ at Sportsnaut, he's just the 22nd best projected starter in the league right now.

"Even in a down year, Tua Tagovailoa still had the second-highest TD rate of his career. The issue, obviously, was an interception rate nearly twice that of his previous five seasons. Given a chance to reset in a domed stadium, there’s enough reason to believe a motivated Tagovailoa returns to peak form in Atlanta."

For context, that's only one spot ahead of Bryce Young, who threw for fewer than 200 passing yards in 12 games last season. It's one spot below Bo Nix, who has just two years of experience at this level.

One could argue that Tagovailoa belongs a little higher on this list. At a minimum, he should probably be rankedin the top 20 based on his past accomplishments alone.

If Tua can stay healthy and cut down on his interception rate (it was a career-high 3.9% last season, up dramatically from his career average of 2.4%) then he should be able to climb these rankings pretty quick.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Tua Tagovailoa ranked No. 22 QB in NFL

Saturday's star-studded WNBA matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Dallas Wings will feature the last four No. 1 overall draft picks.

The Fever, led by Aliyah Boston (2023 No. 1 pick) and Caitlin Clark (2024 No. 1 overall pick), will open the 30th season of the WNBA against the Wings, led by Paige Bueckers (2025 No. 1 pick) and Azzi Fudd (2026 No. 1 pick). Saturday's season-opening matchup not only pits the last four consecutive No. 1 draft picks against each other, it features the past two Rookie of the Year winners in Clark (2024) and Bueckers (2025).

It'll mark the second matchup between the squads in a little more than a week after the Wings soundly defeated the Fever 95-80 in the preseason on April 30. Bueckers (20) and Maddy Siegrist (18) combined for 38 points in the win, while Clark had 21 points in the losing effort.

Clark, who was limited to 13 games last season due to injuries, said she's "really excited" to be back.

"I feel great," Clark said on Tuesday. "Even the preseason games were really fun for myself too. I treat those like real games... Obviously we have a lot of areas to improve, especially during the Dallas game. You certainly saw that defensively I think has been our focus."

What time is Indiana Fever vs. Dallas Wings?

The Indiana Fever open the season against the Dallas Wings on Saturday, May 9 at 1 p.m. ET (10 a.m. PT) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Indiana Fever vs. Dallas Wings: TV, streaming

• Date: Saturday, May 9
• Time: 1 p.m. ET (10 a.m. PT)
• Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indianapolis, IN)
• TV: ABC
• Stream: Disney+

Indiana Fever roster

*developmental player

Dallas Wings roster

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news —  Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fever-Wings season opener: How to watch Caitlin Clark vs. Paige Bueckers

In a statistic that doesn't seem real, Iowa State's TJ Otzelberger has snagged six top in-state recruits from Greg Gard.

The Wisconsin Badgers just missed out on Donovan Davis, who is yet another top Wisconsin native to choose the Cyclones over the Badgers.

Since Otzelberger took over in 2021, ISU has earned commitments from Tyrese Hunter, Milan Momcilovic, Jamarion Batemon, Xzavion Mitchell, Usef Gray, and now Davis.

Those recruits played high school ball at Racine, Pewaukee, Milwaukee, Oshkosh, West Allis, and Freedom. Remember, Otzelberger is a Milwaukee native who played at Saint Thomas More.

There's no doubt NIL has a huge say in these decisions, but that's still something that needs to be addressed behind the scenes. Gard can only do so much, and Wisconsin doesn't seem to even be competitive in some of these battles.

Until that changes, top in-state players are going to keep playing elsewhere. Keep in mind, this list of six players doesn't even include the likes of Patrick Baldwin Jr., Kon Knueppel, Dooney Johnson, Seth Trimble, among many more.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: The six recent in-state recruits Greg Gard has lost to TJ Otzelberger

PHOENIX — After the Las Vegas Aces swept the Phoenix Mercury in the 2025 WNBA Finals in October, Kahleah Copper gathered her teammates in a huddle as the Aces celebrated on Phoenix’s court. 

“After the game, I just wanted us to feel it. I wanted us to hear the celebrations. I wanted us to really feel the moment, feel the hurt,” Copper said immediately after. "Let it just fuel us for the future."

It’s a level of disappointment that lingers seven months later as the Mercury prepare to open the league's 30th season against the same team that ended its championship dreams. And if that wasn’t loss enough motivation, the Mercury will watch as the Aces raise their latest championship banner and get their rings Saturday at T-Mobile Arena (3:30 p.m. ET, ABC/Disney+).

“You would have some motivation too, right?" a fired-up Copper said Wednesday, ahead of Phoenix’s season-opener that doubles as a WNBA Finals rematch. "We just got swept…We want to get that one for sure.”

Kahleah Copper said the Phoenix Mercury are "1,000%" motivated heading into Saturday's WNBA Finals rematch against the Las Vegas Aces after getting swept last season.

'You would have some motivation too, right? ... We want to get that one for sure' pic.twitter.com/b9m4sWusl0

— Cydney Henderson (@CydHenderson) May 9, 2026

No one expected the Mercury to go on a deep postseason run last year, let alone make the WNBA Finals. And despite defying all odds, few selected Phoenix to return to the championship series. Being the perpetual underdog is nothing new to the Mercury, who last won a title in 2014 during the Diana Taurasi era.

Frankly, they don't care.

"We're not really worried about the expectations of what others think," Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts said. “Our expectation is always going to be bigger than what the national media thinks. Some national media picked us to be the seventh best team in our league. When we look in the mirror, we don't see that. We see a team that's playing for a championship."

The belief is still there among the franchise. Unlike last season when Phoenix had two returning players, the Mercury have continuity on its side with seven returnees, including veterans Copper, Alyssa Thomas, Sami Whitcomb and DeWanna Bonner. Phoenix lost last season's leading scorer in Satou Sabally, but the team reloaded with French forwards Noémie Brochant and Valériane Ayayi to collectively help fill that void.

“People aren't familiar with a lot of players that we've put on our team, just like last season. So once again, we're counted out," said Thomas, who finished third in MVP voting after breaking her own single-season triple-double record with eight. "We have a lot more depth this year... our defense is really going to be taken to a different level."

Thomas and the Mercury may not get the national recognition, but they have the respect of their peers. In the WNBA GM survey released earlier this week, Thomas was named one of the most versatile players in the league that forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments. She was also ranked as one of the top three defenders in the league.

"Anytime you have a team with Alyssa Thomas, I think you're going to be ... a defensive team," Tibbetts said. "You lean into the things that got us or made us successful a year ago and how can we tweak some other areas that are weaknesses for us. So we'll continue to evolve."

With evolution comes adversity, which the Mercury are facing early on. Kathryn Westbeld suffered a season-ending ACL tear in her right knee while playing overseas and Sami Whitcomb is expected to miss 4-6 weeks after undergoing an arthroscopy procedure on her left knee.

That hasn't dampened the Mercury's anticipation for another playoff run.

"For us it's the start of the season, the start for us to set the tone on how we wanted to play this year," Thomas said. "We have a lot of new pieces that we're still integrating. They're slowly coming into training camp, so I think for us, we're just excited about the capabilities of what we have this year and we're going to go out there and try to play our brand of basketball."

Reach USA TODAY National Women’s Sports Reporter Cydney Henderson at chenderson@gannett.com and follow her on X at @CydHenderson.

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news —  Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Phoenix Mercury open season against Las Vegas Aces after finals sweep

The RFEF has announced the referees appointed for the Primera División matches on Sunday, May 10.

El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid will be refereed by Alejandro Hernández Hernández, with Javier Iglesias Villanueva assisting on VAR.

It will be the sixth Clásico overseen by the Canary Islands official, with a record of two Barcelona wins, two draws, and one Real Madrid win. Last season, he refereed Barcelona’s 4-3 win over Real Madrid on matchday 35.

The rest of the matchday appointments

The duo of César Soto and Jorge Figueroa will take charge of Real Oviedo vs. Getafe, Ortiz and Martín González will handle Athletic vs. Valencia, and García and Del Cerro will officiate Mallorca vs. Villarreal.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Lars Kornetka makes five changes from the defeat in Kiel. Lukas Frenkert, Fabio Di Michele Sanchez, Fabio Kaufmann, Erencan Yardimci and Faride Alidou replace Andi Hoti, Leon Bell Bell, Robin Heußer, Johan Gomez and Jovan Mijatović.

Thomas Stamm has made one change from the victory over Kaiserslautern as Lukas Boeder comes in for Friedrich Müller. 

Confirmed Eintracht Braunschweig vs. Dynamo Dresden lineups

Eintracht Braunschweig (4-2-3-1): Hoffmann (GK) - Aydin, Ehlers, Frenkert, Di Michele Sanchez - Flick, Marie - Tempelmann, Kaufmann, Alidou - Yardimci 

Dynamo Dresden (4-2-3-1): Schreiber (GK) - Sterner, Boeder, Keller, Rossipal - Amoako, Wagner - Ceka, Hauptmann, Bobzien - Vermeij 

When are the EFL Championship playoffs? Schedule of 2026 matches as teams battle for Premier League promotion originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

With two teams now promoted to the Premier League, the remaining side to go up will be determined by the playoffs.

The top two finishers in the EFL Championship at the conclusion of the season secure automatic promotion, with the third determined through an exciting playoff system.

The four teams that finish third through sixth will progress to the Championship playoffs, a thrilling and nerve-wracking four-team mini bracket to determine the eventual winner. The final is considered the richest game in football, as the winner earns access to the massive financial provided by the English top flight.

The Sporting News details who will be involved in this year's playoffs and when the games will be played, including the famous final at Wembley Stadium.

MORE:What teams have been promoted to the Premier League for the 2026/27 season?

When are the 2026 EFL Championship playoffs?

The final day of the EFL Championship regular season was Saturday, May 2.

The playoffs began the following weekend. The first legs of the semifinals are on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9, while the second legs will be played that following Monday and Tuesday.

Then, the Championship playoff final will be held on Saturday, May 23 at Wembley Stadium.

What teams are in the 2026 EFL Championship playoffs?

The four teams in this season's playoffs are Milwall, Southampton, Middlesbrough, and Hull City.

Wrexham missed out on the final day after a 2-2 home draw with Boro allowed Hull to leapfrog them in the standings.

Race for Championship promotion playoff

Table updated after final round of games

*Confirmed for playoffs

EFL Championship playoff schedule, fixtures for 2026

The semifinals will take place the weekend of May 8, while the final will take place in late May at Wembley Stadium.

Playoff semifinals

First leg

Second leg

Playoff final

In the third round of the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected LSU safety AJ Haulcy. Let's take a closer look at Haulcy's game with what a few draft experts had to say in their final scouting reports.

Haulcy has ample experience playing both free safety and down in the box near the line of scrimmage. He's been a sound run defender by PFF's metrics and has had very good ball production in coverage, logging eight interceptions and 10 pass breakups the last two seasons.

Haulcy brings a ballhawking presence to the Indianapolis secondary, and the Colts believe he has the versatility to fill a variety of roles in Lou Anarumo's scheme.

Right away, Haulcy will compete for the starting safety role next to Cam Bynum.

Dane Brugler, The Athletic

"Haulcy has some wild tendencies. Given his recognition and range, though, teams will be comfortable betting on him to reach his ceiling as an NFL starter. Teams will also appreciate his coachability and intangibles, which will show on special teams."

Lance Zierlein, NFL.com

"Haulcy, aka Mr. Give Me That, is a throwback safety with a compact, densely muscled frame and a pro feel for reading the field. He’s a rare blend of ballhawk and enforcer who can scurry into passing lanes for takeaways or run through a receiver to break up a pass. His pattern recognition and instincts are top-notch and he’s decisive in his reactions. A lack of sustained top-end speed could create mismatches in man coverage. He’s more effective playing forward than he is at guarding large spaces in deeper coverages. He’s rock-steady as a finisher but sees the missed tackle total tick higher as an open-field tackler. Haulcy’s frame and game are pro-ready, though. He projects as a good NFL starter in a zone-heavy scheme."

Todd McShay, The Ringer

"Haulcy is an experienced and productive safety with a good blend of size and speed. He’s at his best when he can read receivers and quarterbacks in off coverage and zone looks. He’s quick to trigger, breaks well on the ball, and jumps routes. He can sort out route combinations and has enough range to cover a deep half. He is a physical presence and a big hitter in coverage. He tracks the ball well and doesn’t play the man in zone looks."

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Scouting reports on new Colts' S AJ Haulcy

Peter Hickman edged out Jeremy McWilliams to take victory in a thrilling opening Supertwins/Sportbike race at the North West 200 on Saturday.

The Swan Racing Yamaha R7 rider executed the decisive pass at the Juniper Hill chicane on the final circuit of four to take the fifth North West win of his career and his third in the Twins class following his double in 2024.

The Lincolnshire rider had 0.46 seconds to spare over McWilliams, who led for the duration of the race until Hickman hit the front when it mattered.

The pair were involved in an exhilarating dual at the front, with Alastair Seeley holding off Paul Jordan to secure the final rostrum position.

Jordan recovered ground after overshooting at University Corner on the first lap, posting the fastest lap of the race at 112.231mph in taking fourth spot.

Yorkshire's Jamie Coward was fifth on his Milenco by Padgett's Paton, with Christian Elin completing the top six.

Hickman moves to within two of Richard Cooper's record of five Supertwin race triumphs with his victory. McWilliams also has three wins in the class.

Today in Boston Celtics history, former Danny Ainge was hired by the storied franchise in 2003 to his latter role as team president. He succeeded former Celtics general manager Chris Wallace, the prior President of Basketball Operations, who had held the position since taking over the job from infamous Celtics president Rick Pitino in 2001. Ainge had a successful tenure as President of Basketball Operations, winning a title in the 2007-08 NBA season, and making an NBA Finals appearance two seasons later in 2010. His ability to seemingly always get the best of a deal has earned him the moniker “Trader Danny”, ranging from acquiring the contracts of Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett to forge the team that won Banner 17.

Perhaps his best-known trade was moving Garnett and Paul Pierce to the Brooklyn Nets in 2013 which netted what would prove to be one of the most uneven returns in league history. Ainge would step down as team president in the 2021 offseason after several tough seasons in terms of both an ongoing pandemic and personal health, having suffered a heart attack two years earlier.

He has since found a similar position (if lighter load) working with the Utah Jazz.

Birthdays

It is also former Celtic big man Marcus Webb’s birthday, who was born in 1970 on this date in Montgomery, Alabama.

Webb came to the Celtics as an undrafted player out of Alabama and played nine games for the team in the 1992-93 NBA season after signing as a free agent in the summer of 1992. He averaged 4.3 points and 1.1 rebounds while with the team.

This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Celtics history: Danny Ainge hired as GM, Marcus Webb born

The NFL is projecting to feature a record-setting nine international games in four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums in the 2026 season. The Kansas City Chiefs have a significant history of playing international games, including recent contests in Brazil, Germany, and Mexico.

The league has continued to feature artists from different cultures as performers, promoting diversity and innovation. Super Bowl LX halftime performer and global superstar Bad Bunny delivered a memorable show that drew a record-breaking audience.

Chiefs Wire's Ed Easton Jr. spoke with the female DJ trio Las Flaquitas for their thoughts on the cultural impact of the Super Bowl LX halftime show.

"It was fun to watch him transform a football stadium into a space that felt like home for a lot of people, and for others was an introduction. In his short performance, he gave everyone a kind of history lesson that felt celebratory, which isn't easy to do."

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The proverbial calendar has flipped in WWE after WrestleMania, but there's still some unfinished business to settle, so it's time to deal with the backlash of it.

Backlash 2026 is the first premium live event to take place after WWE's major event, and it's setting the stage for the next part of the wrestling world. After defeating CM Punk to win the World Heavyweight Championship, Roman Reigns has his first title defense, and it comes against cousin Jacob Fatu in a new chapter in the Bloodline saga. It's one of two title matches scheduled, with the other a WrestleMania rematch for the United States Championship.

Some feuds that have been boiling for months will finally meet in the ring, and everyone awaits to see who Danhausen will have as his tag team partner. Plus, John Cena will appear, and what will he have to say?

Here's what to know for Backlash 2026:

WWE Backlash 2026 start time

Backlash 2026 starts at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Coverage begins at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. ET.

How to watch WWE Backlash 2026

The first hour of Backlash 2026 will air on ESPN2 and ESPN's streaming service.

Afterward, Backlash will stream exclusively on ESPN's streaming service. Viewers can sign up for a subscription to the site here, which starts at $29.99 a month.

ESPN's service is available through select cable and TV packages, including:

• DIRECTV
• Fubo TV
• Hulu + Live TV
• Spectrum
• Verizon FiOS
• U-verse
• Cox
• Comcast Xfinity

If your cable or TV package includes the ESPN streaming service, you can figure out how to activate it here. 

Internationally, WrestleMania will be available on Netflix in most markets.

Where is WWE Backlash 2026?

It takes place at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida.

WWE Backlash 2026 match card

Matches not in order

• John Cena appearance
• Seth Rollins vs. Bron Breakker
• Iyo Sky vs. Asuka
• Danhousen and mystery partner vs. The Miz and Kit Wilson
• United States Championship match: Trick Williams (c) vs. Sami Zayn
• World Heavyweight Championship match: Roman Reigns (c) vs. Jacob Fatu

When is WWE Backlash 2026 preshow?

The Backlash preshow begins at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.

How to watch WWE Backlash 2026 preshow

The preshow will be available to stream for free on YouTube and WWE's social media channels. It will also be available to stream on ESPN's streaming service, and the final hour of the show (5-6 p.m. ET) will air on ESPN2.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: WWE Backlash 2026 start time, how to watch and match card

ASUS challenges Elgato with its ROG Strix XG129C Touchscreen display ASUS has officially launched its ROG Strix XG129C secondary display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen that is designed for app control and system monitoring. Users can use their primary display for gaming and applications, and use this secondary screen for chats, system monitoring, and widgets. The ROG […]

The post ASUS launches its ROG Strix XG129C secondary touchscreen monitor appeared first on OC3D.

The industry’s first 2nm chipsets are launching later this year, with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro rumored on multiple occasions to take advantage of TSMC’s next-generation lithography. As expected, this manufacturing process is costly, with phone makers likely adopting these solutions in their absolute top-tier offerings, and in the middle of a DRAM crisis, their margins will be drastically affected. Fortunately, the latest rumor from a tipster states that Qualcomm will have plenty of options arriving this year for customers, allowing them to offer immense diversification of smartphone models in the fourth quarter […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/qualcomm-to-offer-various-2nm-and-3nm-chipset-options-this-year/

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/carnival-corporation-ushers-in-new-era-with-groundbreaking-of-global-headquarters-in-miami/

Carnival Corporation Ushers in New Era with Groundbreaking of Global Headquarters in MiamiCarnival Corporation & plc has officially broken ground...

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/belgium-joins-netherlands-denmark-italy-switzerland-poland-austria-romania-ireland-and-other-non-superpower-nations-in-europe-in-finding-emergency-solutions-to-avoid-any-us-sanctions-amid-crude/

Belgium Joins Netherlands, Denmark, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Austria, Romania, Ireland and Other Non Superpower Nations in Europe in Finding Emergency...

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/the-ultimate-k-snack-festival-guide-a-gourmet-journey-through-daegus-and-gyeongbuks-iconic-flavours/

The Ultimate K-Snack Festival Guide: A Gourmet Journey Through Daegu’s and Gyeongbuk’s Iconic FlavoursExplore Korea’s first K-Snack Festival! A three-week...

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Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/portugal-and-algarve-travel-spotlight-intensifies-as-bonnie-tyler-recovers-from-emergency-surgery-in-faro/

Portugal And Algarve Travel Spotlight Intensifies As Bonnie Tyler Recovers From Emergency Surgery In FaroBonnie Tyler undergoes emergency surgery in...

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has offered his final verdict on Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois, predicting a “late” stoppage in their heavyweight tussle. The pair will headline a Queensberry Promotions pay-per-view card at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, with Wardley making the first defence of his WBO world title. He was elevated from ‘interim’ to full champion following his last […]

The post Carl Froch makes final KO prediction for Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois: “He’ll stop him late” appeared first on Boxing News.

Shakur Stevenson is reportedly finalising a promotional deal that could have significant repercussions on the future of his career. The 28-year-old is already considered one of boxing’s premier stars, certainly a top five pound-for-pound operator, but whether he maintains this lofty status is another matter entirely. Based purely on his talent, many have tipped the […]

The post Shakur Stevenson ‘finalising’ major promotional deal that could have big repercussions in the sport appeared first on Boxing News.

Moses Itauma believes Fabio Wardley’s first WBO heavyweight world title defence against Daniel Dubois lasts no more than six rounds. Wardley and Dubois both step through the ropes tonight in Manchester with a 95% knockout-to-win ratio, though most in the boxing world predict one of those records will become more impressive, with few backing this […]

The post Moses Itauma makes final ‘early KO’ prediction for Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois appeared first on Boxing News.

US spot Bitcoin ETFs have logged six consecutive weeks of net inflows, the longest such streak since a seven-week run that drew in $7.57 billion in the summer of 2025.

Strike CEO Jack Mallers argued that if Wall Street “kills” Bitcoin, then the asset was never going to succeed in the first place.

Vincenzo Montella'nın eski yardımcısı Enzo Maresca'nın Fenerbahçe'nin başına geçmek için Chelsea'den alacağı 12 milyon sterlin'lik tazminattan vazgeçmeye hazır olduğu iddia edildi.

Aday bile olmayan Mehmet Ali Aydınlar'ın Fenerbahçe başkanı seçilmesi durumunda Chelsea'den kovulan Enzo Maresca ile Londra'da anlaşmaya vardığı iddia edildi.

Türk Milli Takımı'nın eski hocası Montella'nın bir zamanlar yardımcısı olan İtalyan teknik adam Chelsea ile 2024 yılında 4 milyon sterlin değerinde 5+1 yıllık bir sözleşmeye imza atmıştı.

Ayrılığın nasıl olduğu açıklanmadı... ancak İngiliz basını Chelsea'nın önümüzdeki 3 sezonda İtalyan teknik adama maaşını ödemeye devam ederek büyük bir tazminatı tek seferde ödememe yolunu seçtiğine dair haberler yaptı.

Eğer iddia edildiği gibi Maresca, Fenerbahçe'ye gelseydi ya da gelirse, İtalyan teknik adam 3 yıl için 12 milyon sterlin'i bulan tazminatını bırakması gerekecek/gerekiyor.

Marseca'nın sözleşmesinde "başka bir iş bulursa, yeni işinden aldığı maaş kadar miktar mevcut tazminattan düşülür" maddesi yer aldığı iddia ediliyor.

Bu arada İtalyan basınında yer alan haberlerde ise Maresca'nın Premier Lig'den teklif beklediği, özellikle de Pep Guardiola'nın ayrılması durumunda Manchester City'nin başına geçmek istediği aktarıldı.

2024 yılında Bayern Münih'i, Avusturya Milli Takım teknik direktörlüğü için reddeden Ralf Rangnick'in Dünya Kupası'ndan önce Mehmet Ali Aydınlar'la Fenerbahçe'nin futbol aklı olmak için anlaştığı iddia edildi.

Başkan adayı olması beklenen Mehmet Ali Aydınlar'ın futbol aklı olarak Avusturya Milli Takım teknik direktörü Ralf Rangnick ile belli bir noktaya geldiği iddia edildi.

Rangnick, 2024 yılının Mayıs ayında Bayern Münih'ten gelen resmi teklifi reddederek Avusturya Milli Takımı'nda kalmaya karar verdiğini açıklamıştı.

68 yaşındaki futbol adamının 2026 Dünya Kupası sonuna kadar, Avusturya Milli Takımı ile teknik direktörlük anlaşması var.

İddia edildiği gibi Rangnick, Fenerbahçe'nin "futbol aklı" olarak anlaşsaydı bile Dünya Kupası maçları nedeniyle en iyi ihtimalle Temmuz ayında göreve başlayacaktı.

Yani 2026-27 sezonu için teknik direktörün seçilmesinden, kamp programının yapılmasından ve Şampiyonlar Ligi ya da UEFA Avrupa Ligi kadroların verilmesiyle hemen hemen aynı tarihte.

Beşiktaş'ta bütün gözler derbiye çevrildi. İstifa mektubu zaten cebinde olan Sergen Yalçın, çArşı'nın bu akşam Trabzonspor maçının ilk 5 dakikasına sahaya sırtlarını dönme kararına ne tepki vereceği merak konusu.

Beşiktaş'ın elendiği Konyaspor maçından sonra "istifa sinyali veren" Sergen Yalçın bu akşam Trabzonspor karşısında "istifa mektubunu imzalayıp" Başkan Serdal Adalı'ya sunabilir.

Yalçın'ın kararında tribünlerin tavrı etkili olacak. Konyaspor maçından sonra, "ben olsam ben de istifa derdim" diyen Yalçın'a göre taraftarın kendisiyle ilgili asıl fikri bu akşam Trabzonspor maçındaki tavrıyla netleşecek. Eğer yine "istifa" derlerse gidecek.

Bu arada Beşiktaş'ın en büyük taraftar grubu çArşı enteresan bir çıkış yaptı. Trabzonspor maçının ilk 5 dakikasında sahaya sırtlarını döneceklerini açıkladı. Sonrasında tepkilerinin Sergen Yalçın'a mı, yönetime mi döneceği Beşiktaş'ın belki de gelecek sezonunu etkileyecek.

Zalgiris Kaunas'ı 94-90 mağlup eden Fenerbahçe Beko, Final Four'a yükseldi. ilk rakip Atina'da Olympiakos olacak. Maçlar 22-24 Mayıs'ta Panathinaikos'un sahası Telekom Center'da oynanacak.

EuroLeague play-off çeyrek final 4. maçında Fenerbahçe Beko, uzatmalara giden maçta Zalgiris Kaunas'ı 94-90 mağlup ederek Final Four'a yükseldi. Üst üste 3. kez toplamda da 8. kez Dörtlü Final biletini alan Fenerbahçe, Atina'da Olympiakos ile finale yükselme mücadelesi verecek. Panathinaikos'un sahası Telekom Center'ın ev sahipliği yapacağı Dörtlü Final müsabakaları, 22-24 Mayıs'ta oynanacak.

Fenerba koçu Sarunas Jasikevicius ve oyuncuların açıklamaları şampiyonluk umudu taşıyordu.

Geleneksel Final Four Kutlaması ?#YellowLegacy #EuroLeague pic.twitter.com/8TFFS9TEH9

Sarunas Jasikevicius'un açıklamaları:

- Öncelikle oyuncularımı tebrik ediyorum. Bu seri boyunca ve öncesinde birçok şeyin üstesinden geldiler. Birçok insan belki de bizden şüphe ediyordu ama onlar bunların üstesinden gelip kazanmayı ve bu performansı ortaya koymayı başardılar. Bir önceki karşılaşmada maça başlangıcımızdan sonra biraz rahatladık ve belki de galibiyeti bu sebeple kaçırdık. Bugün de tam tersiydi. Mücadele ile karşılaşmaya tutunduk ve Final Four’a kalmayı başardık.

- Öncelikle oyuncularımı tebrik ediyorum. Bu seri boyunca ve öncesinde birçok şeyin üstesinden geldiler. Birçok insan belki de bizden şüphe ediyordu ama onlar bunların üstesinden gelip kazanmayı ve bu performansı ortaya koymayı başardılar.

Final Four biletini aldığımız o an! #YellowLegacy #EuroLeague pic.twitter.com/t99gqwMYOy

İŞTE OYUNCULARIN AÇIKLAMALARI

Tarık Biberovic:

- İnanılmaz mutluyum. Böyle bir atmosferde çok zor galibiyet. Takımla gurur duyuyorum. Üst üste üçüncü Final Four. Kafamızda tek şey var. İki galibiyet daha almamız gerekiyor.

Devon Hall:

- Çok mutluyum. Bizim için harika başarı. Zalgiris’i de tebrik ediyorum. Sezon boyunca harika performans sergilediler. Geçtiğimiz senelerde bizimle olan bir koç tarafından çalıştırıyorlar.

Tebrik ediyorum.

Talen-Horton Tucker:

- Çok mutluyum ama henüz işimiz bitmedi. Final Four’da olacak olmaktan dolayı çok mutluyum ama sezon başındaki hedefimiz kupaydı. Bunun için mücadele ediyoruz. Bizim için iyi tecrübeydi. Böyle anlar için yaşıyoruz.

Wade Baldwin:

- Zor bir maç oldu. İnişler, çıkışlar, 4. çeyreğin sonu ile uzatmada iyi bir performans ortaya koyduk ve böylelikle Final Four’a yükseldik. Zalgiris’i de tebrik ediyorum. İyi mücadele ettiler. Sezonu iyi noktada tamamlamışlardı. Artık Final Four’dayız.

Nicolo Melli:

- Sezon boyunca burayı hedefliyorduk. İniş ve çıkışlarımız oldu. İyi zamanlarımız oldu. Kötü mağlubiyetler aldık ama buraya gelmek için çok fazla savaştık. Şimdi Final Four’dayız ve gururluyuz.

Bonzie Colson:

- Bizim için zor bir sezondu. İnişler ve çıkışlar oldu ama sonunda adımızı Final Four’a yazdırmayı başardık. Bundan dolayı çok mutluyuz.

Nando De Colo:

- Müthiş bir başarı. Harika bir zafere imza attık ve böylelikle adımızı Final Four’a yazdırdık. Çok zor oldu ama iyi savaştık. Seriyi kazanmayı başardık. Şimdi biraz dinlenip sonrasında Final Four’u beklemeye başlayacağız.

Portuqaliyalı mütəxəssis Joze Mourinyo “Real”a baş məşqçi təyin oluna bilər.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə insayder Fabrizio Romano məlumat yayıb. Xəbərdə “Real”ın Mourinyo ilə danışıqlara başladığı bildirilib.

“Real”a hazırda Alvaro Arbeloa rəhbərlik edir. Onun yayda klubdan ayrılacağı gözlənilir.

Mourinyo 2010-2013-cü illərdə “kral klubu”nda çalışıb. O, hazırda “Benfika”nın baş məşqçisidir.

Fransa Liqa 1-i tərk edəcək növbəti komanda məlum olub.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Lans”a uduzan “Nant”ın sona bir tur qalmış elita ilə vidalaşacağı dəqiqləşib.

“Nant” 33 turdan sonra 23 xalla 17-ci sıradadır.

Daha əvvəl “Mets”in liqanı tərk edəcəyi dəqiqləşib.

As the Serie A season enters its final weeks, there is still a lot to play for. The league winners might be known, but the race for the Champions League places is heating up.

Inter are now guaranteed to finish top of the table after their 2-0 victory against Parma, which clinched the Scudetto. That leaves three qualification spots remaining, but five teams are all pushing for them.

Who, though, has the best chance of finishing in the top four? Here’s a closer look at the matches each team in contention has left, and who is the most likely to qualify.

Napoli – 70 points

Antonio Conte’s men might have fallen short of defending their status as champions, but they look all but certain to qualify for the Champions League. A goalless draw against Como means that they only need one win and one draw from their three remaining games to guarantee a top-four finish.

Napoli face ninth-placed Bologna in their next match, but their away fixture against struggling Pisa should be their best chance of a victory. They then play Udinese in their final match, although that could be a potential slip-up that teams can capitalise on, as I Friulani emerged as 1-0 victors when the two sides met in December 2025.

Milan – 67 points

A victory against Sassuolo would have put Milan on the brink of qualification, but a defeat has put the pressure on. Now only three points ahead of fifth-placed Roma, the Rossoneri need to bounce back from their latest setback, and quickly.

Fortunately, while their next match against Atalanta will be difficult, the final two matches of the season are much more straightforward. Milan have a trip to Genoa on May 17, before they then host Cagliari at the San Siro in their final game. Both teams lie in the bottom half of the table, and while Genoa did manage a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture against Milan back in January, the 19-time champions will still be confident in their chances.

Juventus – 65 points

Milan’s failure to beat Sassuolo might have been punished had Juventus beaten Verona. But, in spite of that 1-1 draw, La Vecchia Signora should feel the most optimistic. While they are only one point ahead of Roma, Luciano Spalletti’s side now only play teams in the bottom half of the table.

Lecce could be a potential mistake waiting to happen, but their win against Pisa was their only win in seven. Juve will also be heavy favourites in their matches against Fiorentina and Torino.

Because Juventus is the team in Serie A with the biggest global following, fans across the world will be making the most of betting bonuses, such as a 1win promo code for India readers, to back Juve to qualify for the Champions League. They have a lot going in their favour, but only time will tell if they manage to get over the line.

Roma – 64 points

Roma might have lost four more games than Como, but the Giallorossi still find themselves among the chasing pack for Champions League football. It’s been seven seasons since they last played in the competition, but if things go their way, that streak might come to an end.

A win against Fiorentina has put them in fifth, but there’s no question that their route to the top four is more difficult than their rivals. They face Parma away from home next before the Derby della Capitale against Lazio.

Nevertheless, Roma have not lost to their rivals since January 2024 and will be confident of extending that run as they pursue European football. If the teams above them drop more points, then it could all come down to their final match of the season against Verona on May 24.

Como – 62 points

A win against Napoli would have put Como in control of their bid for Champions League football. Now, I Lariani need to win the maximum nine points from their last three games and hope that other teams can do them a favour if they are to have any chance.

Cesc Fabregas – who recently ruled out a move to Chelsea – has the team with sufficient quality to win three matches on the spin, and their remaining fixtures also lend themselves to potential success. They face bottom-three sides Verona and Cremonese, either side of a home fixture against 12th-placed Parma, whom they have not lost to since 2023 in Serie B. Nevertheless, the Lombardy-based club has a mountain to climb to qualify for the Champions League.

Both Lazio and Inter are likely to make squad rotations in their Serie A match today, as they prepare for next week’s Coppa Italia Final, but the Nerazzurri captain, Lautaro Martinez, is still expected to start.

It kicks off at 18:00 CET (17:00 BST) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

It’s Inter’s first game as defending Serie A champions, as the Nerazzurri secured the Scudetto with three games to spare last week.

Lazio are four points below a Conference League placement, but their priority remains next Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final, also against the Nerazzurri.

Francesco Pio Esposito and Hakan Calhanoglu are unavailable for Inter, but while the Italian striker is expected to recover in time for next week’s Final, Calhanoglu is not likely to make it.

Lazio get to this match without the injured Samuel Gigot, Ivan Provedel, Alessio Furlanetto, Danilo Cataldi, Elseid Hysaj and their captain Mattia Zaccagni.

As reported by Gazzetta, Italy international Davide Frattesi is set to make a rare start for Inter in the middle of the park, so Nicolò Barella will rest.

Marcus Thuram is also expected to start on the bench, making room for Ange-Yoan Bonny and Lautaro Martinez up front.

Lazio vs. Inter – probable line-ups

The match will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.

Lazio vs. Inter – where to watch on TV

Inter (3-5-2): Martinez Jo.; Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni; Darmian, Sucic, Frattesi, Mkhitaryan, Carlos Augusto; Lautaro Martinez, Bonny.

Lazio (4-3-3): Motta; Lazzari, Provstgaard, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Basic, Rovella, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Noslin.

Dusan Vlahovic is set to return to the Juventus starting XI for the first time in over five months as the Bianconeri seek a win against a Lecce side that is fighting for survival.

It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 BST) at the Stadio Via Del Mare in Lecce.

The home side have a four-point advantage over the relegation zone, so a win would almost certainly allow them to secure survival, while Juventus sit fourth in the standings, but their lead over fifth-placed Roma has been reduced to just one point following back-to-back draws against Milan and Hellas Verona.

The Bianconeri have travelled to Lecce without the injured Arkadiusz Milik and Juan Cabal.

Serbia international Vlahovic is expected to start his first game since November 29, as reported by Sky Sport and Gazzetta.

Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceiçao will complete the Old Lady’s attack.

Medon Berisha, Kialonda Gaspar, Riccardo Sottil and Sadik Fofana are unavailable for Lecce, where Walid Cheddira is the favourite over Nikola Stulic for a starting spot as a lone striker.

Lecce vs. Juventus – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2, DAZN and HBO Max in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.

Lecce vs. Juventus – probable line-ups

Lecce (4-2-3-1): Falcone; Danilo Veiga, Siebert, Tiago Gabriel, Gallo; Ngom, Ramadani; Pierotti, Coulibaly, Banda; Cheddira. 

Juventus (3-4-2-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Conceição, Yildiz; Vlahovic. 

Arsenal have been tipped to change the course of their history if they win the Champions League final this season, with a transfer like Kylian Mbappe perhaps within their reach.

That’s the view of former Gunners midfielder Emmanuel Petit, who believes there could be a chance of Mbappe leaving Real Madrid this summer.

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Still, overall he feels it’s probably not realistic, even if Arsenal’s status would be transformed by finally winning the European Cup.

Mbappe would undoubtedly be a dream signing for Arsenal after so many world class performances throughout his career, even if he also comes with a big ego.

Arsenal could pounce for unsettled Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe has 85 goals in 100 games for Real Madrid, but it’s also true that his move to the Bernabeu hasn’t been entirely successful so far.

The France international’s future seems in some doubt at the moment, and this has led to Petit to call for AFC to snap him up if they win the Champions League.

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“If Arsenal win the Champions League for the first time then it would change the course of their history and send a strong message in the transfer market,” Petit is quoted by the Sun.

“Players would of course want to play for the Champions League winners and hope they can go and win it again, it would help them attract Kylian Mbappe if he does leave Real Madrid.”

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Kylian Mbappe would be a game-changer for Arsenal

Mbappe is one of the best players in the world, and it would be great to see him coming to the Premier League.

Even if it’s unrealistic, here’s how we scored Mbappe to Arsenal with our Transfer Fit rating system…

The only downside to this deal is the price, while Mbappe is also not the youngest, but he’s an elite goal-scorer who can also provide an option on the left-hand side of a front three.

The 27-year-old would be a huge upgrade on the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz up front, and on Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left.

The post Arsenal could try signing unsettled Kylian Mbappe if they win Champions League, says ex-Gunner appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bayern Munich are reportedly eyeing up a potential summer transfer window swoop for Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento as they also chase his teammate Anthony Gordon.

Gordon has been strongly linked with Bayern by Christian Falk and others, but it looks like other Newcastle stars are also facing uncertainty ahead of this summer.

There has previously been talk of Livramento and others possibly leaving St James’ Park, as per the Telegraph, while Arsenal have been linked as suitors for the England international in a report from BBC Sport.

Livramento has shone at Newcastle, and now a report from Fichajes states that Bayern are the latest club to show an interest in him.

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Tino Livramento to Arsenal or Bayern?

Livramento makes sense as someone who could now be keen to make the step up to a higher level after a difficult and frustrating season for Newcastle.

Eddie Howe’s side were thrashed by Barcelona in the Champions League and have dropped to 13th in the Premier League table, making European football highly unlikely for next season.

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Livramento is more than good enough to be playing at the top, so it will be interesting to see if he ends up somewhere like Arsenal or Bayern.

Fichajes suggest Bayern are now stepping up their interest, though the report adds that NUFC want as much as £70m to let the 23-year-old go.

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That seems a lot to be paying for someone with a slightly worrying recent injury record, so it will be interesting to see how realistic a deal is for that price.

Still, Newcastle also surely need to push for a big fee or else they’re at risk of losing far too many important players in one go this summer, just a year on from the blow of losing Alexander Isak to Liverpool.

The post Bayern rival Arsenal for signing of £70m Newcastle star – not Anthony Gordon appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are understood to be on alert for the possible transfer of Arsenal attacking midfielder Ethan Nwaneri as his situation at the Emirates Stadium as changed.

The highly-rated 19-year-old was not initially loaned out to Marseille to be put in the shop window, but Arsenal could now be open to letting him go for the right price this summer, as first reported here for the Daily Briefing.

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Chelsea are one of the clubs with a long term appreciation of Nwaneri, and they could revisit this deal if he does indeed end up moving on from Arsenal at the end of this campaign.

For now, it’s not clear that Nwaneri himself is pushing to leave, but there may perhaps be concerns with his development after murmurings of attitude problems at Marseille training.

What sources are saying about Ethan Nwaneri transfer

As well as Chelsea, sources have named Borussia Dortmund, Juventus, and AC Milan as clubs keeping an eye on Nwaneri’s situation, while at least three other Premier League teams are also monitoring developments.

Meanwhile, Arsenal could be tempted to cash in on Nwaneri for around £35-40m, with the sale to count as ‘pure profit’ from a PSR perspective due to the fact that the England Under-21 international came up through the Gunners’ academy.

“Nwaneri is struggling right now and that means Arsenal are going to have to consider a sale,” one source said. “Things can change quickly, but he clearly isn’t progressing as expected, and they’ll feel they can get a decent fee for him.

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“Chelsea have tried signing him before. They’re still keeping an eye on how this develops, as are Dortmund, Juventus, and Milan. Many top clubs in England and Europe still see him as a fantastic talent, and he might benefit from a fresh start.”

Could Ethan Nwaneri be the right signing for Chelsea?

Chelsea haven’t got a lot right in the transfer market in recent times, but their policy of recruiting top young players has occasionally gone well for them.

Joao Pedro has been a big hit since joining from Brighton, while Cole Palmer was in a similar situation at Manchester City to Nwaneri’s at Arsenal now when he moved to Stamford Bridge.

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Using our Transfer Fit rating system, we score Nwaneri to Chelsea 16/25 – a promising young player in a position they need, who wouldn’t cost a fortune, but who also isn’t in the best form right now.

Arsenal might be wary of selling a top prospect like Nwaneri to a rival, but it currently seems unlikely that he’s going to become a key first-team player in Mikel Arteta’s squad.

These two London rivals have also done business plenty of times before, with big names like Kai Havertz, Jorginho, Noni Madueke, and Kepa Arrizabalaga all moving from Chelsea to Arsenal in the last few years.

The post Sources: Chelsea & other PL clubs eyeing “fantastic” Arsenal star in surprise transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Jose Mourinho is reportedly already thinking about Real Madrid transfer targets if he ends up returning to the Bernabeu as manager.

The Benfica boss has been in talks over returning to Real Madrid for a second spell, according to the Athletic, and he’ll surely be keen to make several changes to this squad.

It’s been a difficult season for the Spanish giants, and one particular area of concern seems to be in midfield.

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According to Fichajes, this has led Mourinho to look for Real to sign one of Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister, or Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali.

Jose Mourinho wants more control in midfield

Madrid have some fine midfield players, but they’ve struggled to adequately replace the quality of legendary duo Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.

Even if Fernandez and Mac Allister are not quite at that level, they are arguably more similar in playing style due to their ability to get on the ball and dictate play.

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Chelsea could also be open to selling Fernandez, which makes him a realistic target, so Los Blancos fans will no doubt keep an eye on how this saga progresses.

Could Alexis Mac Allister leave Liverpool?

Meanwhile, there are some doubts over Mac Allister’s Liverpool future after comments from the player’s father.

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The Argentina international has not yet spoken with another club, according to his dad Carlos, but he also hasn’t discussed a new contract with Liverpool.

The Reds ended up losing Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid last summer, so they might not be too keen on a similar situation here, but if a new deal still isn’t in place then it surely has to be a possibility.

The post From Spain: Mourinho eyeing Chelsea & Liverpool stars in Real Madrid transfer overhaul appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool Eyeing Champions League Qualification Amidst Key Developments

Liverpool are preparing to face Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday, with crucial points on the line as they battle for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. However, a series of off-field stories have captured the spotlight ahead of the match, overshadowing the on-pitch action. These developments, including Darwin Núñez’s potential return to the Premier League and ticket price hikes, add extra layers of intrigue to the Reds’ current season, as reported by Daily Star.

Arne Slot’s First Year in Charge: A Mixed Bag

Arne Slot, who took over Liverpool’s managerial reins in the summer of 2024, has found it difficult to replicate the success of his debut season. Just 12 months ago, the Dutchman guided Liverpool to their first Premier League title since 2020, only to see their title defence falter in the current campaign. The team’s failure to build on their previous triumph has led to growing concerns over Slot’s tactical approach and ability to sustain long-term success.

Despite this, the Reds remain in the hunt for a top-five finish, currently holding fourth place with 58 points. While a place in the 2026/27 Champions League is still within reach, the final trio of fixtures against Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Brentford will be crucial in determining their European fate. The pressure on Slot will intensify as he aims to secure a return to Europe’s premier club competition next season.

Darwin Núñez’s Saudi Arabian Sojourn: A Short-Lived Adventure

In an unexpected turn of events, Darwin Núñez, once a promising prospect at Liverpool, is reportedly heading back to the Premier League after less than a year with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. The Uruguayan forward, who joined Liverpool for £64 million in 2022, struggled to live up to his hefty transfer fee. His spell at Al-Hilal has been equally turbulent, with the 24-year-old failing to make a lasting impact in the Saudi Pro League.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite a promising start to his tenure in the Middle East, Núñez was relegated to the sidelines following the arrival of Karim Benzema in January. Al-Hilal, seeking to comply with foreign player restrictions, made the decision to cut Núñez from their squad. The restrictions limit the number of overseas players in their squad, with only eight players born before 2003 allowed to feature.

Núñez has not played since February, and reports suggest that he has reached an understanding with Al-Hilal that will allow him to leave the club when the season concludes. Although a Liverpool return seems unlikely, several Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United and Chelsea, are reportedly monitoring his situation closely, and the forward could become a free agent at 26.

FSG’s Ticket Price U-Turn Amid Supporter Backlash

In an unexpected move, Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), have put plans for significant ticket price increases on hold following a wave of protests from fans. This comes after the club’s initial proposal to raise ticket prices for the next three seasons faced widespread backlash from the Liverpool fanbase. Protests outside Anfield, including banners, placards, and chants against FSG, have been a clear indication of the growing discontent among supporters.

Photo: IMAGO

The club initially cited inflation and rising operating costs as reasons for the price hikes, but the fan outcry has led to a partial reversal. Instead of the proposed increases, Liverpool will raise general admission prices by just 3% next season and freeze prices for the following two years. This move comes after discussions between the club’s executives and supporter groups, including the influential Spirit of Shankly.

In a statement, Liverpool announced: “The club and Supporters Board will use the certainty of these seasons to seek longer-term alternative solutions across the game and explore commercial ideas with the Supporters Board in an attempt to avoid future ticket price increases and address issues around affordability and accessibility for future generations.”

Spirit of Shankly, one of the key fan groups, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that they would continue to engage with the club to find long-term solutions to prevent future price hikes. The group praised the club for listening to fans and working with them to find a resolution.

Conclusion: A Season of Mixed Fortunes

Liverpool’s 2025/26 season has been one of mixed fortunes. While their Champions League hopes remain alive, the club’s internal and external challenges, from managerial struggles to player departures and fan protests, show that this is not a smooth ride for Arne Slot and his team. With key decisions still to be made, the next few weeks could prove decisive in determining the club’s trajectory. The Reds will be hoping that they can turn their fortunes around, both on and off the pitch, as they look to secure a place in Europe’s elite competition for next season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Liverpool fan, the news surrounding Darwin Núñez’s turbulent Saudi Arabian stint is both surprising and disappointing. When he was brought to Anfield in 2022, expectations were sky-high, especially with the hefty £64 million price tag. However, his time at Liverpool was marred by inconsistency, and his move to Al-Hilal was seen as a potential fresh start. Unfortunately, his time in the Middle East has been equally underwhelming, with reports suggesting he was sidelined due to squad regulations and player restrictions.

While it may be tempting to view his potential return to the Premier League as a positive, the truth is that Núñez’s struggles raise questions about the club’s recruitment strategy and ability to bring in players who can truly make an impact. As Liverpool fans, we want to see players who are ready to step up and contribute from day one, not ones who require a lengthy period to adjust. The situation with Núñez highlights the challenge Liverpool faces in finding players who can seamlessly fit into their system and deliver consistently.

Moreover, the ticket price saga has left many fans frustrated and feeling alienated. It’s good that FSG has responded to fan protests and rolled back their plans for drastic ticket price hikes, but it remains to be seen if this move will quell the growing dissatisfaction among supporters. Fans want to feel valued, not just as customers but as an integral part of the club’s identity. The Spirit of Shankly’s efforts to hold the club accountable are commendable, and it’s crucial that Liverpool continues to engage with supporters to ensure that ticket prices remain fair and accessible for all.

In these challenging times, Liverpool fans are calling for clarity, stability, and genuine efforts from the club to address their concerns. With Arne Slot’s future under scrutiny and the team fighting for Champions League qualification, it’s clear that Liverpool needs to take a long hard look at its strategy both on and off the pitch to ensure it remains competitive in the years to come.

The tagline for Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois is “Don’t Blink”, but the host of Friday’s weigh-in oddly set his bespectacled sights beyond this fight – and on the looming presence of Moses Itauma in the heavyweight division.

“Is either of you the landlord, or are you just squatters, waiting for Moses Itauma to come and take the property?” asked Simon Jordan, referencing Anthony Joshua’s recent message to Tyson Fury, as well as the potential next opponent for Wardley or Dubois.

Jordan, familiar to TalkSport listeners but brought in by DAZN on Friday, is always articulate but can be aggravating to athletes. He certainly tried to bring some needle to this weigh-in, but neither WBO heavyweight champion Wardley nor Dubois felt much of a prick here, as they tipped the scales then faced off ahead of Saturday’s showdown in Manchester.

Dubois (251.7lb / 114.1kg) barely answered Jordan’s questions, instead speaking in brief mission statements as he tends to do. Wardley (242.2lb / 109.8kg) entertained Jordan’s queries but stayed calm, maintaining his composed demeanour from the rest of fight week.

The champion (20-0-1, 19 KOs) even encouraged the crowd’s shouts in support of Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs), and there were many of them, although there were cheers for Wardley as well.

Neither fighter is local to Manchester, with Wardley, 31, representing Ipswich and Dubois, 28, fighting out of London. Regardless, the split of Friday’s support will be as irrelevant on Saturday as the votes that were shown at the weigh-in; when Jordan put it to Dubois that the online polls leant towards a Wardley win, “Dynamite” was unfazed.

There was a whisper in his ear from a team member, though, which made this writer think of a comment by Wardley at Thursday’s press conference: “You let other people talk to you and tell you what it should be like.”

As mentioned above, Wardley has appeared calm this week, and – speaking on the BBC’s 5 Live Boxing Podcast – he told Indy Sport columnist Steve Bunce that he is very intentional with how he expends his energy. Then you have Dubois, who has twice ended interviews prematurely this week; one could argue that this is his attempt to save energy, but carrying tension into and out of those media duties is not necessarily a great sign.

Similarly, it seemed on Friday that Wardley was doing his best to enjoy the occasion, while Dubois just wanted to fast-forward to the fight. Dubois has said as much throughout the week, and that is understandable, but there is a sense that Wardley has won the little pre-fight battles.