Lukas Nmecha hailed Leeds United’s belief in their 2-2 draw with Chelsea as they fight to retain their Premier League status. After going 2-0 down at Stamford Bridge, Leeds salvaged a point, with Nmecha halving the deficit from the penalty spot before he assisted Noah Okafor’s equaliser. Cole Palmer, who teed up Joao Pedro’s opener […]

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The post ´We´re in a fight to stay in the league´ – Nmecha lauds Leeds´ belief appeared first on Soccer News.

Liam Rosenior bemoaned Chelsea’s failure to stay composed after a “ridiculous” collapse saw Leeds United fight back for a stunning 2-2 draw. Chelsea appeared to be cruising towards a fifth straight Premier League win at Stamford Bridge after Joao Pedro’s first-half opener, before Cole Palmer doubled his side’s lead with a penalty in the 58th […]

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The post Rosenior frustrated by ´ridiculous´ Chelsea collapse after Leeds comeback appeared first on Soccer News.

Cole Palmer was left to rue a glorious stoppage-time opportunity as Chelsea were stunned by Leeds United’s comeback for a 2-2 draw on Tuesday. Leeds were already without Pascal Struijk and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and found themselves behind at Stamford Bridge when Palmer slotted through for Joao Pedro’s 24th-minute opener. Palmer and Joao Pedro could have […]

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The post Chelsea 2-2 Leeds United: Rosenior´s top-four charge stunted by unexpected comeback appeared first on Soccer News.

The atmosphere at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium turned toxic on Tuesday night as supporters reached a breaking point following a devastating 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle United.

As the final whistle blew, the message from the stands was unmistakable: the fanbase has lost faith in manager Thomas Frank.

Tottenham fans tell Thomas Frank he needs to go

The most damning moment of the evening occurred long after the ball had stopped rolling.

As Thomas Frank made the walk across the pitch toward the tunnel, he was met with a barrage of angry comments from the home support.

Prominent Tottenham fan Chris Cowlin captured the scene on social media, noting that fans were heard shouting “It’s time to go” directly at the Danish coach.

The frustration wasn’t limited to a few disgruntled voices; a significant portion of the South Stand stayed behind to voice their disapproval, signaling that Frank’s time could be over soon.

"It's time to go!" The Spurs fans to Thomas Frank at the final whistle.#COYS #THFC pic.twitter.com/xPay2rnxzx

— Chris Cowlin (@ChrisCowlin) February 10, 2026

Fans also chanted Mauricio Pochettino’s name during game

The tension had been building throughout the ninety minutes.

With Spurs trailing at half-time against Newcastle after a goal from Malick Thiaw, the stadium began to echo with the name of Mauricio Pochettino.

The Argentine, who led the club to its most consistent period of success in the modern era, remains the benchmark for the Spurs faithful.

By chanting for a former manager while the current one is still in the dugout, the fans sent a clear message to the board: they want Pochettino back.

Thomas Frank convinced his job is safe

Despite the poor results and supporters’ growing outrage, Frank claimed after the game that he is convinced he will not be sacked just yet.

Speaking to the media after the latest defeat, he said: “I’m convinced I will still be in charge. I understand the question and it’s easy to point to me, but it’s about the whole club.”

??| Thomas Frank:

“I'm convinced I will still be in charge [for the NLD]. I understand the question and easy to point to me but it's about the whole club.”

We are going down, if so. #FrankOut pic.twitter.com/yit1b4uzuc

— The Spurs Express (@TheSpursExpress) February 10, 2026

With Spurs sitting just five points above the relegation zone, it is now a matter of urgency for the club.

If they decide to stick with Frank for the remainder of the season, and the results don’t improve, a shock relegation could become a strong possibility.

The post Watch: What Tottenham fans told Thomas Frank after the final whistle suggests his time is up appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Christian Pulisic has quickly become one of the central pillars of Milan’s modern project, symbolizing the club’s renewed ambition to compete at the top of European soccer. With a likely return to the UEFA Champions League on the horizon, Milan’s management is already laying the groundwork for a crucial transfer window that could shape the next phase of the Rossoneri’s evolution.

Behind the scenes, financial planning is intensifying, with the club quietly preparing a significant budget boost that could reinforce Massimiliano Allegri’s squad and secure long-term stability around key players like Pulisic. While the Champions League alone will bring a financial windfall, Milan is exploring additional ways to expand their spending power—and a major update has emerged regarding its strategy.

The Rossoneri’s long-term planning has taken on added urgency as they push toward a return to Europe’s elite competition. The club currently sits in a strong position domestically, making Champions League qualification increasingly likely. That alone would provide a substantial financial injection, but the Rossoneri are looking beyond UEFA revenue streams.

According to Tuttosport, the club’s financial foundations for next season are already being laid, with a significant influx of funds expected from player sales tied to loan agreements. This budget could prove decisive in strengthening the squad around established stars such as Pulisic, while also targeting a top-tier striker and an experienced defender.

How Milan could raise around $77 million

The mystery surrounding Milan’s expected $77 million windfall lies in a carefully constructed network of loan deals with conditional obligations and options to buy. In total, up to six players currently out on loan could be sold permanently, generating a massive cash injection for the club.

One of the most significant deals involves Alex Jimenez, whose move to Bournemouth has already been confirmed as permanent. Reports from Sky Italia and Fabrizio Romano state that the obligation to buy was triggered after performance-related conditions were met. The deal is worth around $21 million plus $5.5 million in bonuses, though Real Madrid will receive 50% of the fee due to a sell-on clause.

Alvaro Morata’s situation is also expected to bring funds to San Siro. His loan at Como includes a conditional obligation to buy, and La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan anticipates receiving around $16.5 million for the Spanish striker. In addition, Samuel Chukwueze’s loan spell at Fulham has been another positive development. If the Premier League side exercises its option to buy, the Serie A giant would receive around $26.5 million, reflecting strong performances in England.

Lorenzo Colombo’s loan to Genoa includes a conditional obligation to buy for roughly $11 million, contingent on performance benchmarks and survival in Serie A—conditions he is close to meeting after scoring six goals in 24 appearances. Then there is Tommaso Pobega, who is expected to join Bologna permanently for about $7.7 million, while Filippo Terracciano could move to Cremonese for $3.8 million, provided they avoid relegation.

If all these deals are finalized, Milan could generate more than $77 million in transfer revenue, creating a significant financial buffer for the summer 2026 market.

Additional revenue and complex cases

Beyond the core group of loanees, Milan also has potential income tied to other players, although these deals appear less certain. Yunus Musah’s loan to Atalanta includes a $22.5 million option to buy, though his limited playing time may reduce the likelihood of a permanent transfer.

Ismael Bennacer’s loan to Dinamo Zagreb includes a $11 million purchase option, with the Croatian club covering a portion of his salary. While these deals are not guaranteed, they represent further upside for the team’s financial strategy. Calciomercato also notes that if every buy-out clause were activated, Milan could collect as much as $103 million, with roughly two-thirds already considered realistic.

What this means for Pulisic and his future

The potential return to the Champions League will further strengthen Milan’s finances, but the club is not relying solely on UEFA prize money. The strategy of monetizing loaned-out players is part of a broader squad overhaul, with around 55% of the current roster reshaped compared to last season.

For Pulisic, this financial strategy signals the club’s commitment to building a competitive project around him and other key figures. The American winger has already become a central figure in the squad, and the club’s willingness to plan a major investment window underscores their belief in the current core.

Ousmane Dembele’s rise as a central attacking force for Paris Saint-Germain has coincided with major changes across the squad, but one of his closest teammates is now facing an unexpected crisis that could derail his international ambitions. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the situation has become increasingly complicated for a crucial figure in France’s goalkeeping hierarchy, and what was once a promising path toward the tournament has turned into a growing concern.

Behind Mike Maignan’s established status as the undisputed No.1 for France, the battle for backup roles is intensifying. Several candidates are struggling for consistency and playing time at club level, creating uncertainty within Didier Deschamps’ plans. And for one Paris Saint-Germain player, the circumstances have become particularly alarming, raising the possibility of watching the World Cup from home.

Les Bleus’ goalkeeping picture has undergone significant changes since Hugo Lloris stepped away after the 2022 World Cup. Mike Maignan has taken over as the primary option, while several names have rotated as backups. Brice Samba, Alphonse Areola, and a young PSG goalkeeper have all been considered part of the emerging hierarchy.

However, recent club developments have destabilized that structure. Several French goalkeepers were benched at their respective clubs over the weekend, highlighting a growing crisis of confidence and continuity. Samba’s omission appears temporary and linked to internal tensions at Stade Rennais, while Areola’s situation at West Ham is more concerning after a run without clean sheets and a recent demotion. Yet the most worrying case comes from Paris.

The PSG star at the center of concern

In the middle of this uncertainty stands Lucas Chevalier, a highly rated French goalkeeper who arrived at Paris Saint-Germain with expectations of taking a major step forward in his career. Instead, his situation has deteriorated rapidly.

He has lost his status as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, with Luis Enrique now preferring Matvey Safonov in key matches. The young keeper has been repeatedly left on the bench, including during a dominant 5-0 win in the Classique, confirming his slide down the pecking order.

According to L’Equipe and RMC Sport, the French national team staff are monitoring the situation with growing concern, fearing that a lack of playing time could cost him a place in the 2026 World Cup squad. The situation is described as precarious, with critics pointing to inconsistency and underwhelming performances since his move from Lille.

France’s coaching staff reportedly expects him to reclaim his starting role and rediscover the form that earned him his international call-up, but time is running out. Four months before the tournament, the hierarchy behind Maignan is described as “seriously complicated.”

Hidden reason with serious consequences

For Chevalier, the threat of missing the World Cup stems from a surprisingly simple yet devastating factor: playing time. Unlike injuries or off-field issues, his World Cup dream is at risk because he is no longer trusted as PSG’s starter and has limited opportunities to prove himself.

L’Equipe warns that if he does not play again and perform, he could miss the tournament entirely. This is a stark reversal for a goalkeeper who recently started in France’s 3-1 win over Azerbaijan and was viewed as a rising contender for the national setup.

With traditional backup options struggling, the door has opened for unexpected challengers. Jean Butez, currently impressing at Como, and Robin Risser, thriving at Lens, are being closely watched by the French staff.

Match Overview

The first leg went nothing like the script, turning into a tight, tactical stalemate that ended scoreless and left the series completely undecided. Tigres UANL couldn’t find a breakthrough on the road and now return home with the advantage of familiar surroundings, where a win would seal progression.

Forge FC, on the other hand, head into hostile territory with a rare chance to pull off a statement result and advance. With everything riding on one match, this decisive leg is one you won’t want to miss.

For months, Robert Lewandowski has been linked to rumors and speculation about potential moves to clubs across different continents. One of the more concrete possibilities appears to be Major League Soccer, with Chicago Fire at the center of talks. A Poland national team player shared his thoughts on the matter.

This week, journalist Nicolo Schira reported on X that Lewandowski received a formal offer from Chicago Fire to move to MLS once his contract with Barcelona ends on June 30 of this year. The proposal reportedly includes a two-year deal, an appealing detail considering the player’s advanced age.

When asked about these rumors, a teammate of the Polish star expressed excitement about the possibility. “Yeah, I saw some news and maybe he will come. I think it’s a very good opportunity, you know?” said Houston Dynamo midfielder Mateusz Bogusz during a recent interview shared by Deporte Total USA on X.

The 24-year-old midfielder will return to MLS this season after a short stint in Liga MX with Cruz Azul. It will be his second spell in the United States, having played over 90 matches with Los Angeles FC in 2023 and 2024.

“The MLS is growing, the organization here is very good, you know?” Bogusz reflected during the same interview. “So, that’s a very good step. Not only for the old players, but for the young players who want to come here.”

What’s Lewandowski’s situation right now?

Speculation about Robert Lewandowski’s future has only intensified over time, as the calendar has become a key factor in the decision. From January 1, 2026, the Polish striker will be free to negotiate and sign a contract with any club in the world, taking effect in the second half of the year.

This is because FIFA rules allow players with less than six months remaining on their contracts to negotiate freely. Lewandowski is tied to Barcelona until June 30, and if he does not agree to an extension, he will become a free agent after that date.

While there have been rumors that Barcelona could offer Lewandowski an additional year, there are currently no reports of concrete negotiations. In fact, speculation around potential offensive reinforcements for Barcelona, such as Dusan Vlahovic or Julian Alvarez, only adds to the uncertainty.

Lamine Yamal has been a breath of fresh air not only for Barcelona fans, but also for neutral followers around the world who enjoy a talented player. He isn’t even 19 yet, yet he has achieved records that most teenagers dream about.

There are many tools to watch almost any match in the world nowadays. However, it’s also true young players seem to analyze videos less than before. That’s what Yamal admitted in a recent interview with ESPN.

Yamal explained, when talking about what he does outside of the sport: “I try to be with my friends and live my life. I try not to focus just on soccer, to not be all the time focused on the match, or watching videos of the defender I’m going against.”

Yamal spoke about his non-soccer activities

The Spanish attacker has the benefit of his profession to experience things that very few people can. Achieving success so young provides advantages he didn’t have growing up. But he still has normal hobbies.

Yamal said this about how he takes his time off: “I’m trying to enjoy the entire day and, at the moment I’m on the field, give my everything. But coming out of it I just want to disconnect all I can from soccer.”

A day for him, if he were invisible, would be like this, Yamal described: “I’d have breakfast on a rooftop. In the evening I would play a match in some park, for example at Rocafonda. Then I would go on a bike ride or skate with my friends.”

Yamal’s humble origins

Yamal can probably buy anything he wants. Even if he hasn’t been a player for too long, succeeding at such a great club and with Spain provides him enough resources to get anything he desires.

The star mentioned how he used to have fun when he was a child: “When I was a kid, we didn’t have the possibility of buying a PlayStation or a Nintendo, so we played with my friend on the floor with some Pokémon cards, which cost one euro.”

Lionel Messi has been an example of professionalism since he started representing Barcelona 20 years ago. He was even the main star of a star-studded Argentina U-20 that won the World Cup in the Netherlands. But according to Fernando Llorente, their preparation wasn’t ideal.

Llorente joined a roundtable to talk about the importance of hydration that included the likes of Luis Figo. The former striker, who finished right behind Messi in the top scoring list at the 2005 U-20 World Cup with five goals before Spain were taken out in the quarterfinals, revealed a rare habit that Argentina players were said to have.

When talking about his past experiences, he said: “To tell a story, I remember when he played against Messi’s Argentina in the U-20. It was said that they were allowed to drink Coca-Cola with the meals, but we couldn’t. They eliminated us, they sent us home, and they moved on. In the teams I’ve been on, we weren’t allowed to drink things like that.”

Figo also talked about hydration

Figo was probably the main name among the participants at the roundtable. The former Barcelona and Real Madrid star also won a Ballon d’Or, capping a career marked by talent and a controversial move between the giants. Just like Llorente did, he spoke about the topic from his experience.

The Portuguese spoke in general terms about elite teams and performance, linking physical preparation to consistency on the pitch. His comments were framed within the broader discussion about hydration and recovery in modern soccer.

For him the change needed is easy to see: “Real Madrid need to hydrate more to play better. It gives you mental health, performance, and better recovery, because they have talent.”

Figo on his preparation as a player

It’s clear that what Figo did as a player worked for him, because his performance was higher than most. But the Portuguese recalled that during his time there was reluctance to change a routine that already seemed to work.

Figo said: “In a world of high competition I’ve only had a nutritionist since 2004. With the habits of hydration and nutrition I had, when you contact a nutritionist you are one step behind because if you had some habits that worked for you, altering that routine makes you wonder if it’s the best for you.”

Cristiano Ronaldo appears to have reached common ground with the Saudi Pro League after reportedly agreeing to end his brief strike. However, with Al Nassr set to play an AFC Champions League Two match, head coach Jorge Jesus explained why the Portuguese star will still miss the upcoming fixture.

After sitting out Al Nassr’s last two matches amid tensions with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Ronaldo has reportedly reached an agreement to return to both training and match action. Still, questions surfaced over whether he would feature against Turkmenistan’s FK Arkadag on Wednesday, February 11.

Speaking at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, Jorge Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo will not be included in the squad for the AFC Champions League Two clash. “We decided to rest Cristiano Ronaldo and the main starting players due to the heavy match schedule and the upcoming important clash against Al Fateh,” he stated.

Addressing expectations of Ronaldo’s return after two consecutive absences, Jesus pointed to a familiar pattern behind the decision: “Resting Cristiano Ronaldo for this match is nothing new. The player often does not take part in matches played outside Saudi Arabia.“

With that clarification, attention now shifts to Al Nassr’s Saudi Pro League matchup against Al Fateh, where Ronaldo is expected to return. After missing games against Al Riyadh, Al Ittihad, and now FK Arkadag, the Portuguese star is set to be back on Saturday, 15 days after his last appearance against Al Kholood in January.

Other stars to miss Al Nassr game

Ronaldo will not be the only notable absence for Al Nassr on Wednesday, as Jesus confirmed several other key players will also be rested. Among the high-profile names unavailable are Marcelo Brozović, Iñigo Martínez, João Félix, Kingsley Coman, Sadio Mané, and Mohamed Simakan.

Currently second in the Saudi Pro League with 49 points, one behind leaders Al Hilal, Al Nassr are prioritizing their league ambitions. The second leg of the Round of 16 against FK Arkadag will be played next Wednesday, February 18, at Al Awwal Park, where the availability of the club’s stars could depend on the outcome of the first leg.

Antonio Conte explained his anger at the referee after the Coppa Italia shoot-out exit to Como, but above all the injury crisis. ‘We’re having an incredibly positive season, in the circumstances.’

They were held to a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, as Antonio Vergara struck at the dawn of the second half to cancel out the Martin Baturina penalty.

There was a great deal of controversy too, as at the 50^th minute Jacobo Ramon was fortunate not to receive a second yellow card for his foul on Rasmus Hojlund on the edge of the penalty area.

Even the first card caused some anger on the touchline, as some thought Ramon’s foul on Hojlund was enough to warrant a straight red for denying a clear scoring opportunity.

Conte fuming at referee after Napoli exit

“Let’s not always go and talk about referees, because there’s always going to be someone complaining,” Conte told Sport Mediaset when asked immediately about those decisions.

“It’s certainly not a good season for referees and for VAR, I hope they can find something that will improve the situation. The fact is, everyone is complaining, coaches, players and fans, so the sport needs to step up and improve, because just as we improve our teams, Rocchi has to improve his referees and VAR officials.

“It’s not good for football, it’s not good for us.”

It went to not just a penalty shoot-out, but sudden death, where the decisive errors were made by Romelu Lukaku and Stanislav Lobotka.

“I credit the lads, because it was certainly not easy to face a Como side with a full squad available, who had rested for 10 days,” continued Conte.

“We were coming off a game played against Genoa three days ago, which we ended with 10 men and lost another player to injury, as Scott McTominay is so important for us.”

The Partenopei were already out of the Champions League and are now eliminated from the Coppa Italia in the quarter-final stage too.

“I can only praise these players, because we are pushing beyond our current potential. We have very few resources available, which are simply nowhere near the ambitions that we should’ve had for this season.

“Despite that, the lads are doing remarkably well. Como will go into the semi-final, we won the Supercoppa Italiana and the Scudetto in the last year and a half. It’s disappointing, because there are years where you’d want to do more, but considering the squad at our disposal right now, any coach would struggle.

“I thank the fans, who can see the effort we are putting in against a complete Como squad. Despite all the difficulties, we were centimetres away from qualifying for the semi-final.”

At least with only Serie A to focus on and one game per week, Conte was asked if he could promise Napoli can at least try to challenge Inter for the Scudetto now, and potentially find out why they’ve had so many injuries?

“What an absurd question,” he laughed bitterly.

“How can you predict Di Lorenzo’s injury, or Lukaku with a detached tendon, De Bruyne with damage to a tendon in a leg he already had an operation on, or Gilmour who needs surgery and spends months out. How can you predict that?

“What we can do is go to a shrine and pray, because these are injuries that last for the whole season. With six or seven important players out for months at a time, it forces the same ones to keep playing all the time, so that creates problems for McTominay and Rrahmani.

“I don’t think this sort of thing has ever happened to another club. On top of that, I was told we couldn’t do anything on the transfer market either, we brought in two young lads to give us a hand.

“I think what we are doing this season is incredibly positive, in the circumstances. As for the Scudetto, there’s a nine-point gap, we have serious problems and you are talking about the Scudetto. Come on. There’s Inter, Milan, Roma, Juventus, even Como, what are we talking about?

“We have to be serious in questions and evaluations too, otherwise it all becomes ridiculous,” concluded a visibly angry Conte.

Cesc Fabregas reveals what he told Como about his experience ahead of the penalty shoot-out against Napoli to reach the Coppa Italia semi-final. ‘I’d been in their situation.’

The Lariani will face Inter in the Coppa Italia semi-final, a stage of the tournament this club had only ever reached once before in 1986, when once again they eliminated the reigning Serie A title holders.

It was Verona back then, but Napoli this time, needing a sudden death penalty shoot-out following the 1-1 draw at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Martin Baturina had converted the opening spot-kick before half-time, while Antonio Vergara scored the equaliser straight after the restart.

Fabregas taking Como to new heights

“It is an historic achievement, a positive time, but we have another very important game coming up on Saturday. We must leave the euphoria to the end of the season,” Fabregas told Sport Mediaset.

“It will be tough to shake off the adrenaline, but we listened to music for 10 minutes in the locker room, now we will begin preparing for the weekend, as we want all three points.”

There was a moment of controversy on 50 minutes when Jacobo Ramon was very lucky not to receive a second yellow card for his foul on Rasmus Hojlund just outside the box.

Seeing that his player was fortunate, Fabregas immediately moved to substitute the defender moments later.

“Obviously, he would get sent off at the next foul, he is a 20-year-old who is lacking experience, this is his first full season as a professional. A good thing about being that young is you don’t feel the pressure, but the negative is that you can be a bit too free and easy as well.

“I had to take him off, because going down to 10 men in a situation like this would make everything far more difficult.”

The decisive errors in the shoot-out were Romelu Lukaku drilling wide and Jean Butez parrying from Stanislav Lobotka, while Vanja Milinkovic-Savic saved from Maximo Perrone.

“I thought the first half was good, but in the second less so, and unfortunately it’s not the first, second or even third time that has happened. It means we need to improve a few things,” noted Fabregas.

“We had from the start sent a positive signal, that we came here to play on the front foot and not just wait and defend. We did do things a little differently in defence today, because we didn’t press too high, as they have players with such quality who can find those spaces and hurt you.

“In order to compete in Serie A, you need a centre-forward of the level of Hojlund and he’s so good. I understand that Napoli had a lot of injuries, but we had suffered with quite a few injuries too in January and February, but with a young squad we always tried to take the initiative and play on the front foot.

“We moved to five at the back for a few minutes, as don’t forget we are Como, and we are a small club in this competition, so in that situation we preferred to lock it down.”

In his speech to the team before the penalties, Fabregas told the Como players to ‘enjoy’ themselves, which is quite an ask in that tense atmosphere.

“I thanked them for giving me this experience as a coach, as a person, because many of them had never been through an experience like this, so it was fundamental they had belief, but also needed to enjoy this moment.

“I told them, I’d been in Napoli’s situation of being the ‘big’ team expected to win and that it adds a bit of fear. We were also lucky to be first in the draw, as that helps. I thanked the players for all they do, as removing a few older lads like Moreno, Morata and Alberto, the average age is 22.

“We need to maintain humility and keep working, because we’ve got three in a row now.”

The semi-final is the only stage of the Coppa Italia that is played over two legs, so with home and away fixtures, although it’s not a long trip in this Lombardy Derby.

The other semi-final is between Atalanta and either Bologna or Lazio.

Como will face Inter in their first Coppa Italia semi-final for 40 years, after eliminating Antonio Conte’s Napoli in a sudden death penalty shoot-out, following the 1-1 draw.

The Partenopei lost Scott McTominay in a controversial 3-2 win over Genoa, so Eljif Elmas dropped into midfield with Giovane getting his first start upfront, as David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne were injured, but Vanja Milinkovic-Savic returned in goal. Como earned a 0-0 draw here in Serie A back in November, but were well rested as their Serie A Week 24 fixture with Milan was rescheduled to February 18.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Jayden Addai’s ambitious lob landed on the roof of the net in the opening minute, while Jean Butez rushed out of his area to nod clear when Rasmus Hojlund sprung the offside trap.

Juan Jesus needed a desperate block after Alex Valle shrugged off Pasquale Mazzocchi to get into the area, but Como were awarded a penalty.

Alex Valle got down the left and stood up a cross to the back post for Ivan Smolcic, who was brought down clumsily by Matias Olivera from behind. The Lariani have failed to convert numerous penalties this season, including one in their Serie A match against Napoli in November, but this time Baturina drilled it into the near bottom corner just beyond Milinkovic-Savic’s fingertips.

Como open the scoring in Naples!

Cesc Fàbregas' men take the lead as Martin Baturina converts from the spot pic.twitter.com/FG9XnHH0vl

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) February 10, 2026

Jacobo Ramon was inches away from giving Napoli a spot-kick, as he brought down Hojlund just outside the penalty area on a long goal kick and VAR evaluated, but decided against upgrading the yellow card to red.

The hosts equalised within 60 seconds of the restart, as Hojlund’s first-time flick in the centre-circle was probably supposed to be for Giovane, but instead kept rolling into the path of Vergara, who surged forward and kept his cool to beat Butez one-on-one.

There was controversy moments later, as Jacobo Ramon brought down Hojlund on the edge of the box and was very lucky not to receive his second booking. Inevitably, Cesc Fabregas took Ramon off to rescue him from danger, amid fury from Conte on the touchline.

Napoli were a different team to the first half, as Hojlund’s head only grazed a Sam Beukema cross, then on the resulting corner Amir Rrahmani’s header was cleared practically off the line by Nico Paz.

Tasos Douvikas couldn’t keep his header down on a Lucas Da Cunha free kick, but Mergim Vojvoda forced a great fingertip save out of Milinkovic-Savic at the near post.

Just like in Serie A, the teams could not be divided, but here went straight into a penalty shoot-out. Como famously have a poor record from the spot this season, while Milinkovic-Savic is the best goalkeeper in the league on these situations.

Lukaku stepped up with a stuttering run-up only to drill it wide of the target, while Baturina beat Milinkovic-Savic for the second time this evening, but Maximo Perrone’s central attempt was parried.

It went to sudden death, and Milinkovic-Savic was so lucky, as his penalty went in off the underside of the bar and the back of Butez’s head.

They kept going until Butez parried the Stanislav Lobotka effort, sending Como through to their first Coppa Italia semi-final in 40 years.

Napoli 1-1 Como (6-7 on pens)

Baturina pen 39 (C), Vergara 46 (N)

Penalties: Da Cunha (C, goal), Politano (N, goal), Douvikas (C, goal), Lukaku (N, miss), Baturina (C, goal), Spinazzola (N, goal), Perrone (C, saved), Alisson Santos (N, goal), Smolcic (C, goal), Elmas (N, goal), Diego Carlos (C, goal), Milinkovic-Savic (N, goal), Vojvoda (C, goal), Gutierrez (N, goal), Valle (C, goal), Lobotka (N, saved)

10-02-2026 20:00

1/4 Final

Stadio Diego Armando Maradona

Napoli

Como

1 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

		39'		Martin Baturina
		44'		Jacobo Ramón

2nd half

Antonio Vergara (Assist: Rasmus Højlund)		46'
		62'		Sergi Roberto
Eljif Elmas		69'

Penalty shootout

	Event
Matteo Politano
Romelu Lukaku
Leonardo Spinazzola
Alisson Santos
Eljif Elmas
Vanja Milinković-Savić
Miguel Gutiérrez
Stanislav Lobotka

Event
	Lucas Da Cunha
	Anastasios Douvikas
	Martin Baturina
	Máximo Perrone
	Ivan Smolcic
	Diego Carlos
	Mërgim Vojvoda
	Marc Oliver Kempf

Match statistic

48

Possession %

52

8

Total shots

9

3

Shots on target

4

1

Shots off target

2

4

Blocked shots

3

6

Corners

4

1

Offsides

3

13

Fouls

8

Napoli

Como

Starting lineups

32

Vanja Milinković-Savić

Goalkeeper

13

Amir Rrahmani

Defender

5

Juan Jesus

Defender

17

Mathías Olivera

Defender

60'

30

Pasquale Mazzocchi

Defender

61'

31

Sam Beukema

Defender

26

Antonio Vergara

Midfielder

74'

20

Eljif Elmas

Midfielder

68

Stanislav Lobotka

Midfielder

23

Giovane

Attacker

61'

19

Rasmus Højlund

Attacker

74'

1

Jean Butez

Goalkeeper

3

Álex Valle

Defender

34

Diego Carlos

Defender

28

Ivan Smolcic

Defender

14

Jacobo Ramón

Defender

53'

20

Martin Baturina

Midfielder

6

Maxence Caqueret

Midfielder

53'

23

Máximo Perrone

Midfielder

10

Nico Paz

Midfielder

82'

8

Sergi Roberto

Midfielder

67'

42

Jayden Addai

Attacker

67'

Substitutes

1

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

14

Nikita Contini

Goalkeeper

4

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

98

Emmanuele De Chiara

Midfielder

95

Vincenzo Prisco

Midfielder

37

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

60'

21

Matteo Politano

Attacker

61'

27

Alisson Santos

Attacker

61'

9

Romelu Lukaku

Attacker

74'

3

Miguel Gutiérrez

Defender

74'

7

Álvaro Morata

Attacker

22

Mauro Vigorito

Goalkeeper

77

Ignace Van Der Brempt

Defender

18

Alberto Moreno

Defender

19

Nicolas Kühn

Attacker

21

Noel Törnqvist

Goalkeeper

98

Samuele Pisati

Attacker

Adrian Lahdo

Midfielder

11

Anastasios Douvikas

Attacker

53'

2

Marc Oliver Kempf

Defender

53'

33

Lucas Da Cunha

Attacker

67'

17

Jesús Rodriguez

Attacker

67'

31

Mërgim Vojvoda

Defender

82'

Noel Aseko has been linked with a move away from German champions Bayern Munich, and the likes of West Ham United and Brighton are keen on securing his signature.

According to a report from Transfermarkt.de, the two Premier League clubs are monitoring the 20-year-old and could make a move for him in the summer. The defensive midfielder has struggled for regular opportunities at the German club, and he is yet to make his senior debut with them.

Noel Aseko needs a move

The player will be desperate for more opportunities, and moving to the Premier League could be ideal for him, especially if West Ham or Brighton are prepared to offer him the gametime he needs.

It will be interesting to see if the German champions are willing to sanction his departure.

The German under-21 international is currently on loan at Hanover 96 until the end of the season, and the club has an option to sign him permanently for €1 million. However, the German champions have an option to bring him back to the club for €2.4 million in the summer. If West Ham or Crystal Palace are prepared to pay a premium, it would not be a surprise if Bayern Munich decided to bring him back and sell him immediately for a profit.

Nuno Espirito Santo issues “challenge” to West Ham players following Tomas Soucek comments

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West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy

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Where will Aseko end up?

It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. The midfielder needs to join a club where he will get ample opportunities. Sitting on the bench at a big club would be detrimental to his development. It remains to be seen whether he can sort out his long-term future quickly enough to focus on his football again.

Nuno hints at a change of approach for West Ham after Chelsea loss

The post West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy appeared first on CaughtOffside.

In a moment that left Stamford Bridge in stunned silence, Cole Palmer produced a strong contender for miss of the season during the final seconds of Chelsea’s dramatic 2-2 draw with Leeds United.

The England international, usually so clinical in front of goal, blazed over from point-blank range with the net at his mercy, costing the Blues a vital victory in their push for the Champions League places.

Cole Palmer could have won It for Chelsea in stoppage time

The miss came in the 94th minute of a thrilling encounter.

After Chelsea had surrendered a two-goal lead, Moises Caicedo surged into the right side of the penalty area and delivered a perfectly weighted low cross across the face of the six-yard box.

Unmarked and standing just a yard out, Cole Palmer seemed certain to tap home for his fifth goal in two matches.

However, the 23-year-old shocked everyone as he failed to connect with the ball properly, sending it high over the crossbar into the Shed End.

Palmer remained slumped in the net for several seconds, head in hands, as manager Liam Rosenior watched on in disbelief from the touchline.

It was a rare human error from a player who has already netted four Premier League hat-tricks this season.

Stamford Bridge in disbelief ?

Cole Palmer misses from point blank range in stoppage time…@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/R31B8LKnsR

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 10, 2026

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Feb 10 2026, 23:21

West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy

Feb 10 2026, 22:35

Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds

Feb 10 2026, 22:03

Leeds United haunt Chelsea again

The result ensures that Leeds United remain Chelsea’s “bogey team” for the 2025-26 campaign.

Daniel Farke’s side had already humbled the Blues with a 3-1 win at Elland Road back in December, and they showed similar resilience here to secure a league double avoidance.

Chelsea had appeared to be cruising after goals from Joao Pedro and a Palmer penalty put them 2-0 up.

However, a spirited Leeds fightback saw Lukas Nmecha convert from the spot before Noah Okafor capitalised on a defensive mix-up between Robert Sanchez and Josh Acheampong to level the scores.

While the point moves Leeds four points clear of the relegation zone, the night will be remembered for Palmer’s late horror miss, a moment that might haunt Chelsea’s top-four aspirations come May.

The post Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Cristian Romero is reportedly unhappy with the hierarchy at Tottenham Hotspur and could be seeking a high-profile exit this summer.

According to Argentine outlet TyC Sports, the World Cup winner’s relationship with the Tottenham board has reached its peak, placing one of the world’s premier defenders firmly on the market.

Real Madrid on alert: Cristian Romero wants Tottenham exit

Real Madrid have identified the search for a world-class central defender as a primary objective for the 2026-27 season.

Romero, who has been a standout performer individually this season, is now a “concrete option” for the Spanish giants.

Report suggest Madrid are prepared to offer upwards of €100 million to secure the 27-year-old, viewing his aggressive, front-foot defending as the perfect successor to the legendary leadership of players like Sergio Ramos.

Romero is frustrated over lack of ambition from Tottenham

The Argentine’s discontent stems from what he perceives as a lack of sports planning and ambition from the Tottenham board.

Romero, who inherited the captaincy following Son Heung-min’s departure, recently caused a stir on social media by describing the club’s lack of winter transfer activity as “disgraceful.”

Following a recent 2-2 draw with Manchester City, Romero posted that it was “shameful” the squad was left with only 11 fit senior players due to poor recruitment.

While manager Thomas Frank insisted the matter was “handled internally,” the public outburst has signaled a fractured relationship between the captain and the decision-makers at the club.

Romero no short of suitors

Apart from Real Madrid, Barcelona have also been linked with a move for Romero and will also be monitoring the situation closely.

Atletico Madrid have shown strong interest in signing him over the last two transfer windows and could return with a bid in the summer.

Meanwhile, Spurs’ Premier League rivals Manchester United have also been urged to sign the World Cup winner.

The post Euro giants ready to pounce as unhappy Tottenham star to seek summer exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is under a lot of pressure after a disappointing run of form, and he could be shown the door at the end of the season.

Even though he helped Newcastle end their prolonged wait for a trophy, he has not delivered this season. Newcastle are currently 12th in the league table and hope to do much better. According to journalist Mark Ogden, Howe could be on his way out of the club in the summer, and he could be replaced by the England national team manager, Thomas Tuchel.

Tuchel has also been linked with Manchester United.

Thomas Tuchel to Newcastle?

The 52-year-old German will be out of contract after the World Cup, and it would not be a surprise if he takes over at a Premier League club. Newcastle have the resources to build a formidable team, and he could be excited to manage them. He has helped Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League, and he has managed some of the biggest clubs in the world.

Mark Odgen has claimed on ESPN: “Newcastle’s progress since being taken over by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund in 2021 has slowed to a halt, and repeated problems in the transfer market have frustrated Howe. With the England job likely to become available when Tuchel’s contract expires after the World Cup, a natural parting of the ways could happen at Newcastle this summer.”

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Watch: What Tottenham fans told Thomas Frank after the final whistle suggests his time is up

Feb 10 2026, 23:21

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Feb 10 2026, 22:35

Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds

Feb 10 2026, 22:03

Howe tipped for England job

Meanwhile, Ogden feels that Howe could end up managing the England national team. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. For now, the manager will be focused on getting the best out of his team and helping them get their season back on track. Newcastle have a quality team, and they should be finishing in the top half at the very least.

The post 52-year-old Champions League winner tipped to replace Howe at Newcastle appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace are interested in signing the Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi. 

According to journalist Mirko Di Natale, they will face competition from Chelsea and Everton for the 28-year-old defender. The player will be out of contract at the end of the season, and the Eagles are hoping to sign him on a bargain. It is no secret that they need a quality central defender, especially after Marc Guehi’s departure.

Tottenham are also keen on Senesi.

Marcis Senesi is in demand

Senesi has proven himself in the Premier League with consistent performances, and there is no doubt that he would be an asset for the Eagles. Signing a layer of his quality and experience for free would be a masterstroke. Crystal Palace need to tighten up at the back, and they have been quite poor in recent months. It remains to be seen whether they can convince the player to join the club.

The opportunity to join a club like Chelsea could be more attractive for the player. It remains to be seen whether the Blues decide to make a move for him. They could also use defensive reinforcements.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: What Tottenham fans told Thomas Frank after the final whistle suggests his time is up

Feb 10 2026, 23:21

West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy

Feb 10 2026, 22:35

Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds

Feb 10 2026, 22:03

Where will Senesi end up?

Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi are likely to be replaced in the summer, and signing the 28-year-old on a free transfer could be a wise decision from Chelsea. The South American will want to compete at a high level as well, and the opportunity to join the London club will be hard to turn down for him.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are a quality team as well. They could be an attractive destination for the defender, especially if a move to Chelsea does not materialise. Crystal Palace will certainly fancy their chances of beating Everton to his signature. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

The post Journalist confirms Crystal Palace want to beat Chelsea to the signing of South American star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is a target for Real Madrid at the end of the season.

The Spanish club is interested in signing the International and they are preparing to offer around €75 million in order to sign him, as per TuttoJuve.

Real Madrid eye Sandro Tonali

The 25-year-old has established himself as a key player for Newcastle, and they will not want to sell him easily. It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid can convince the Premier League club. They need more quality in the middle of the park, and the Italian defensive midfielder would be a useful acquisition. He will help protect the back four and allow the creative players to operate with more freedom.

It is fair to assume that the player will be attracted to the idea of joining Real Madrid. They are widely regarded as one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they could offer him the platform to fight for major trophies regularly. It would be a huge step up in his career, and the player will be tempted to make the move. It will be interesting to see if the two clubs can finalise an agreement in the summer.

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Feb 10 2026, 23:21

West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy

Feb 10 2026, 22:35

Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds

Feb 10 2026, 22:03

Where will Tonali end up?

Other clubs are monitoring his situation, and there is likely to be intense competition for his signature. Real Madrid must move quickly to get the deal done. They have had a disappointing season by their standards, and they will look to bounce back strongly. They will be hoping to win titles and the Champions League next season. They need more quality in the team, and the Newcastle star could be a useful acquisition.

Tonali has been outstanding in the Premier League, but he is entering the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to join a bigger club and fight for major trophies.

The post Real Madrid readying €75 million raid on Newcastle for fan favourite appeared first on CaughtOffside.

After Michael Carrick’s impressive impact, Manchester United have emerged as one of the Premier League’s top-performing teams. With Bruno Fernandes at the helm, they currently rank in the top five of the standings. However, Carlos Casemiro’s departure at the end of the season has prompted them to target a midfielder valued at $130 million. Complicating the Red Devils’ plans, Manchester City have reportedly entered the race for his arrival.

In an effort to bolster consistency in their midfield, Manchester United have targeted Elliot Anderson as a potential key signing. Due to his impressive performances, Nottingham Forest reportedly demand £100 million (approximately $136 million) for his transfer. While the Red Devils are not rushing his signing, Manchester City are prepared to meet this substantial fee, viewing him as a pivotal player for the future, according to TEAMtalk.

While a move to Manchester City could be very appealing, Elliot Anderson may not have his place in the team fully guaranteed. With Rodri, Nico González, Tijjani Reijnders, and Phil Foden in the squad, the Englishman would not be a guaranteed starter under Pep Guardiola. As a highly rated young prospect, the 23-year-old would be seeking immediate prominence, especially as he is already an established Premier League star.

Unlike the Citizens, Elliot could be an undisputed starter at Manchester United. Having lost Carlos Casemiro, he would be the main bet in the midfield, alongside Kobbie Mainoo. Moreover, the Red Devils sports project has been strongly boosted by Michael Carrick’s arrival, making his adaptation easier. Nonetheless, they could need to secure their UEFA Champions League spot to secure the 23-year-old star arrival, as it is still the main difference with Pep Guardiola’s team.

Not only Elliot Anderson: Man United eye two other midfielders

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Manchester United have been determined to strengthen their midfield, as Manuel Ugarte has failed to fully convince and Casemiro’s expected departure at the end of the campaign has accelerated this priority. While Elliot Anderson is reportedly the Red Devils’ top target, Manchester City’s alleged interest could complicate the operation. As a result, they are also looking at two other midfielders.

According to Sky Sport, the Red Devils have also included Carlos Baleba of Crystal Palace and Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion on their list. Like Elliot, both midfielders could be involved in transfers exceeding $100 million, as they rank among the best in their position in the Premier League. For this reason, Manchester United may not rush to finalize their next signing, as they have alternatives if Anderson’s arrival does not materialize.

Real Madrid’s disappointing performance this season will undoubtedly have consequences going forward. Despite still facing the decisive stages of La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, the Spanish club is already considering its future options, with two Argentina World Cup winners currently excelling in the Premier League emerging as reported targets.

“It is well known that Real Madrid are looking for a center back for next season, and in recent months several names have already surfaced as potential options. The latest to join that long list is current Tottenham defender Cristian Gabriel Romero, 27,” Mundo Deportivo reported on Tuesday.

The Argentine center back is a key figure for Spurs and is, in fact, the club’s captain. However, he has made headlines this season due to controversies with club executives, as well as for hurting his team by receiving a red card just 29 minutes into last weekend’s match against Manchester United.

This is not the first time Cuti Romero has been linked with a move to a Spanish giant. Last summer, Atletico Madrid were close to signing him, while in recent weeks he has also been mentioned as an option for Barcelona. The Catalan club, like Real Madrid, is searching for a top-level center back, and the Argentine fits that profile.

Alexis Mac Allister could also be an option for Real Madrid

Cristian Romero is not the only Argentine player who could leave the Premier League next summer to move to La Liga. “Mac Allister is one of the midfielders who has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid,” Diario AS reported. The Liverpool midfielder has delivered outstanding performances in recent seasons in England, fueling speculation about his future.

However, Alexis’ father and agent urged caution when addressing those rumors. “I have to be cautious. He is playing for Liverpool right now. In the future, if the opportunity arises and it is appropriate, he will have to make his own decisions,” Carlos Mac Allister said, according to Diario AS. “What I can say for now is that Alexis is focused on Liverpool and the current season. Alexis is very happy and comfortable at Liverpool.”

Romero and Mac Allister face a major challenge ahead

Regardless of what happens with their respective club careers, Cristian Romero and Alexis Mac Allister currently have a major challenge ahead: defending the title Argentina won at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Argentina will arrive at the 2026 World Cup in North America as one of the favorites to lift the trophy, based on their recent success and on a generation of players that blends youth, experience, and talent. That group also includes Enzo Fernandez, another star linked to Real Madrid in recent rumors, along with Paris Saint-Germain.

Christian Pulisic remains one of the most closely monitored figures at Milan, and his recovery status has become a central storyline ahead of the upcoming clash with Pisa. With the decisive phase of the season approaching, every fitness update carries major implications for Massimiliano Allegri and his plans, especially as Milan’s attack continues to battle physical setbacks.

The American star has been sidelined recently, sparking concerns among fans and analysts alike. But as Milan returns to training and prepares for a critical away fixture, the mood at Milanello has shifted toward cautious optimism. Behind the scenes, medical staff, coaches, and players are working to ensure the squad regains full strength at a crucial juncture in the campaign.

The Rossoneri’s offensive department has been plagued by injuries and fitness issues, leaving Allegri with limited options. Christopher Nkunku is currently the only forward guaranteed to be available for the Serie A trip to Pisa, while Rafael Leao continues to manage an ongoing adductor problem.

Leao’s condition has been carefully monitored, with the club keen to avoid complications such as pubalgia. Although he has returned to group training, his physical condition remains a concern, especially after being left unused in the recent match against Bologna.

Niclas Fullkrug remains another option, though he is expected to be used as an impact substitute rather than a starter. Meanwhile, Alexis Saelemaekers’ recovery is progressing, but the Belgian is unlikely to be risked in Tuscany, with a return more likely in the rescheduled match against Como.

Will Pulisic be called up?

The biggest question mark heading into the Pisa fixture revolves around Pulisic’s availability. The American winger has been working separately due to bursitis in his iliopsoas, but reports suggest his condition is improving rapidly. As preparations intensified at Milanello, Allegri and his staff closely monitored the American’s progress, weighing the risks of rushing him back against the need for creativity and dynamism in attack.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, “Pulisic trained separately but is expected to rejoin full training today or tomorrow, with the inflammation almost over.” Further confirmation came from Tuttosport, which suggested that the 27-year-old could be included in the squad: “Pulisic is OK, he’ll be on the bench in Pisa.”

This means Pulisic is expected to be called up for the match, although he may not start and is unlikely to be at full fitness. Allegri has made it clear that he does not want to take unnecessary risks, preferring to manage the winger’s workload carefully.

Allegri’s cautious approach and what Pulisic’s return would mean for Milan

Despite the encouraging signs, Allegri remains cautious. The coach has repeatedly emphasized the importance of long-term fitness over short-term gains, especially with the decisive part of the season approaching.

Pulisic’s return, even in a limited role, would provide a significant boost. His creativity, pressing, and attacking versatility are crucial elements in Milan’s tactical structure, and his absence has been felt in recent weeks. Although he may not be at peak condition, his presence in the squad would offer Allegri an important tactical weapon, particularly in the second half of matches, where his pace and dribbling can change the tempo.

Match Overview

San Diego FC flipped the script in what many thought would be a grind-it-out rivalry showdown, turning their home game into a statement performance. The MLS team overwhelmed Pumas UNAM with pace and pressure, rolling to a convincing 4–1 victory in the opening leg and seizing a major edge in the first-round matchup.

With that cushion, San Diego head south knowing it can absorb a two-goal setback and still punch their ticket to the next stage, while Pumas must chase a rare three-goal triumph on home soil to keep its hopes alive. All signs point to a tense, high-stakes return leg with plenty on the line, so fans won’t want to miss a minute of this decisive showdown.

The idea of Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie sharing a club dressing room again has quietly captured the imagination of fans and insiders alike. Both players remain central pillars of the USMNT, and both continue to shape their careers at the highest level in Europe, with one thriving in Milan and the other enjoying a resurgence in Turin. As speculation grows ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a familiar question has resurfaced: could the two American leaders reunite at club level in Italy and build chemistry once the summer tournament ends?

Behind the scenes, shifting contract dynamics, rising performances, and interest from Europe’s elite clubs have placed the versatile midfielder at the center of a major transfer storyline. Juventus’ internal decisions, Milan’s recruitment strategy, and the player’s own ambitions are all converging into a narrative that could define his next chapter.

Weston McKennie’s renaissance in Italy has been one of the most striking developments of the season. Once viewed as a rotation option, the American has transformed into a tactical cornerstone under Luciano Spalletti, delivering consistent performances and crucial goals.

His contract situation has attracted attention from multiple leagues. Italian journalist Nicolo Schira reports that clubs from Serie A, Ligue 1, La Liga, and the Premier League are monitoring his status. At the same time, MLS franchises have also expressed interest in bringing him back to the United States.

Inter and Atletico Madrid have emerged as notable suitors, with the Nerazzurri reportedly viewing him as a potential long-term replacement for aging midfield options. His versatility, defensive work rate, and attacking output have made him one of the most sought-after midfielders available on a potential Bosman deal.

Milan’s strategic monitoring and the Pulisic factor

Milan’s recruitment model has increasingly focused on identifying high-value opportunities, particularly players nearing contract expiry who can deliver immediate impact. With Pulisic already a central figure in the club’s long-term project, the possibility of adding another USMNT leader has naturally fueled speculation.

Calciomercato reported that Milan identified McKennie as a potential free-transfer target amid stalled renewal talks with Juventus. From a tactical standpoint, the move would make sense: experience, versatility, and international pedigree align perfectly with Massimiliano Allegri’s midfield needs. For the national team, having two leaders operating within the same club environment could strengthen chemistry ahead of the World Cup.

The turning point: Milan’s real position revealed

According to Matteo Moretto on Fabrizio Romano’s Italian YouTube channel, Milan have recently been linked with McKennie, but they are not really interested in the player and have not confirmed whether this is a viable option. This revelation shifts the narrative significantly, suggesting that while the Rossoneri monitored the situation, they have not moved toward concrete negotiations.

The update suggests that Milan is unlikely to be McKennie’s destination, despite earlier reports and speculation about a potential Pulisic reunion. Juventus remain confident they can leverage McKennie’s happiness in Turin and his relationship with Spalletti to secure a renewal, though negotiations remain complex due to salary demands and agent commissions.

Following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal and the uncertainty surrounding Álvaro Arbeloa, Kylian Mbappé has emerged as the undisputed leader of Los Blancos. Even so, the team is not at its best, as their style of play has failed to fully convince. On top of that, Real Madrid are dealing with the injury of one of their top players. Against all expectations, he is reportedly set to be sidelined for two months, leaving fans concerned.

After feeling a twinge in the opening minutes of Real Madrid’s game against Rayo Vallecano, Jude Bellingham left the game and was diagnosed with a semitendinosus muscle injury in his left leg. Although they decided not to publish an estimated return date for the Englishman, Diario AS reported that he would be out for a month. However, he could take up to two months to recover, leaving the team without one of its main stars, reports Ramon Alvarez de Mon.

Far from enjoying the best season of his career, Jude Bellingham has already suffered two injuries in the 2025–26 campaign, interrupting his progression. Additionally, his performances on the pitch have come under heavy criticism, as he is well below his best scoring average, with just six goals in 28 matches. Nevertheless, the Englishman had been a key player for Álvaro Arbeloa, playing a crucial role alongside Arda Güler.

In the absence of the Englishman, coach Arbeloa could opt to move Federico Valverde back into midfield, alongside Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni. As a result, Arda Güler would take on a more offensive role on the right flank, something that has already proven beneficial against Valencia. In addition, Real Madrid have recovered Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal, meaning the right-back position would no longer be a growing concern.

Brahim Diaz faces a defining chance to secure his place at Real Madrid

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Jude Bellingham has been heavily criticized, as he has lost his offensive influence. In addition, the Englishman has failed to make an impact from an organizational standpoint, raising serious doubts about his ability. With his reported two-month absence, Real Madrid would be forced to look for alternatives within their roster. For this reason, Brahim Díaz could be facing his best opportunity to secure a place in the rotation.

After shining at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Morocco, Brahim Díaz returned to Real Madrid in top form. While he missed a decisive penalty in the final, he finished as the tournament’s top scorer with five goals. Despite having played just 600 minutes this season, the 26-year-old star could reclaim his place in the rotation ahead of Arda Güler, as he has proven to be a difference-maker in attack.

Real Madrid’s attacking midfielder Brahim Díaz had a brilliant Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, all the way until the penalty that changed the outcome of the final defeat to Senegal. A miss in the last minute of regulation where he tried to imitate Antonín Panenka sent the match to extra time.

Díaz was the subject of criticism mainly because of how he chose to take the penalty. Instead of a more conventional strike, he opted for the soft touch known as a Panenka. Precisely the former Czech player explained why he believes Díaz missed in an interview with “El Larguero”.

Panenka said: “It took me two years of training every day to master that penalty. I’m convinced that Brahim didn’t have it trained deeply enough to use that style. In that moment the idea came to him and he tried it. That’s why I think he didn’t score.”

Panenka made history 50 years ago

Panenka may not have had a career filled with individual accolades, but he made history with a great Czechoslovakia team. In the Euro 1976 final, his side went to a penalty shootout against West Germany and ended up winning.

The result was surprising, but the way it happened made his name remembered to this day. A delicate chip down the middle by Panenka was something not even the legendary Sepp Maier expected, sealing the final penalty for the title.

When asked if taking a penalty like that could be seen as disrespectful to the opposing goalkeeper, Panenka said: “I don’t agree. I thought it was the most probable way to score. In a European final you don’t think about mocking the opponent. I love football, my intention wasn’t to laugh at anyone.”

Díaz’s Africa Cup of Nations

Until the missed penalty in the final against Senegal, Díaz had been the star of the team. The midfielder was decisive from the group stage, scoring against Comoros, netting again in the draw with Mali, and adding another goal against Zambia to finish the group as leaders.

Díaz also carried Morocco through the knockout rounds. He scored in victories against Tanzania in the round of 16 and Cameroon in the quarterfinals. With five goals, he finished as the tournament’s top scorer.

The USMNT will face perhaps the biggest challenge in its history this year. The team will have the responsibility of representing the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as tournament hosts and, unlike in 1994, they will do so with a highly competitive squad. In that context, Mauricio Pochettino’s work will be crucial to achieving the desired goals. However, the coach could see his future in the Premier League after the summer.

Reports indicate that Tottenham Hotspur could be Pochettino’s destination in the near future. “Former incumbent Pochettino is ready to return to the role he left in 2019,” TeamTalk reported this week.

Indeed, Spurs enjoyed a highly successful period with Pochettino as head coach between 2014 and 2019. He arrived after standing out at Southampton and, during his more than five years at the London club, built an extremely competitive team that came close to winning major honors.

Tottenham never finished lower than fifth in the Premier League under Pochettino, and they were runners-up in the 2016–17 season. They also enjoyed their best run in European competition, reaching the final of the 2018–19 UEFA Champions League.

Tottenham fans want Pochettino back

Those achievements earned Mauricio Pochettino the affection of Tottenham fans, who dream of seeing him return as soon as possible. In fact, during recent matches, supporters at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium have frequently chanted songs referencing the Argentine coach.

That sentiment comes amid growing dissatisfaction with the team’s results, which has put Thomas Frank’s future in doubt. Under his leadership, Spurs came close to winning the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain, a title that slipped away in a penalty shootout after Tottenham had led for much of the match.

Since then, performances have been inconsistent. In the Premier League, the team finds itself in a difficult position, sitting 15th in the standings and just six points above the relegation zone. However, in the UEFA Champions League, Spurs finished fourth in the standings and qualified directly for the round of 16, placing them in a very strong position in that competition.

What is Pochettino’s situation with the USMNT?

Mauricio Pochettino arrived in the United States to take over the national team in late 2024, replacing Gregg Berhalter. Since then, he has coached 22 matches, posting a record of 13 wins, two draws, and seven losses. His biggest test so far was the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, where the team lost the final to Mexico.

Looking ahead, it is clear that the culmination of his work will be the 2026 World Cup, where the USMNT will face the pressure of playing in front of home fans with the eyes of the soccer world upon them. While much could change depending on how things unfold, that tournament could represent Pochettino’s final challenge with the national team.

The Argentine coach’s contract expires this summer, at the conclusion of the World Cup. If things go well for the USMNT, Pochettino could receive an offer to continue for the next World Cup cycle. However, he would also be free to pursue other opportunities, and that is where a return to the Premier League emerges as a tempting option.

Lionel Messi has begun preparations for the 2026 season, with Inter Miami’s front office making significant investments in new signings to strengthen the squad in pursuit of international success. However, the Argentine icon has reportedly been dealt disappointing news regarding the potential return of an Argentine teammate who also lifted the MLS Cup with the Herons.

Following their successful 2025 MLS Cup run, Inter Miami secured the returns of striker Tadeo Allende and goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo, two players who played key roles late in the campaign. Still, while the club explored bringing back another Argentine MLS Cup winner, it now appears the Herons will be without one important piece.

According to transfer expert César Luis Merlo, club sources indicate that Baltasar Rodríguez’s return to Inter Miami is “practically ruled out.” Despite the MLS side pushing for a deal, the current outlook points to the midfielder remaining at Racing Club in Argentina.

Rodríguez’s future became uncertain after his one-year loan expired, despite finishing the season as a regular in Inter Miami’s first team. The club initially chose not to activate his purchase option, but later reopened talks in an attempt to bring him back.

With negotiations revived, Inter Miami reportedly reached personal terms with Rodríguez in January and then focused on agreeing a transfer fee with Racing. While a deal valued at around $5 million was discussed, talks have now stalled, leaving Rodríguez’s future far from Fort Lauderdale.

Who will replace Rodríguez?

After dealing with fitness issues early in the 2025 season, Rodríguez worked his way into Javier Mascherano’s starting lineup and finished his stint with three goals and three assists in 22 appearances. While not a primary contributor in terms of scoring, he played an important tactical role on the left side of midfield, providing balance and ball progression as Messi operated on the right.

It remains unclear whether Inter Miami will pursue another midfield signing, but Mascherano has already tested internal options. The Argentine coach has deployed Telasco Segovia on the left side during Inter Miami’s recent friendlies, suggesting the Venezuelan could become the primary option there, with 21-year-old Kenan Hot serving as depth.

Inter are increasingly likely to have Benjamin Pavard returned to them in the summer, as Olympique Marseille do not intend to buy him outright.

The defender was sent out on loan to the French side at a cost of €2.5m, with an option to buy at the end of the campaign for a further €15m.

It had been hoped that Marseille would be willing to activate that purchase option and therefore put some much-needed funds into the Inter coffers.

Inter might get Pavard back from Marseille

Pavard has made 26 competitive appearances so far this season for Olympique Marseille, contributing one goal and three assists from defence.

His performance was singled out by the French media following the embarrassing 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, and is therefore increasingly unlikely to remain beyond June 30.

It would also devalue Pavard, whose contract with Inter only runs to June 2028.

The 29-year-old had hoped that this experience in Ligue 1 would give him more regular playing time and a better chance of making the France squad at the 2026 World Cup.

Como director Carlalberto Ludi assures Cesc Fabregas ‘was a world class player and is even better as a coach’ working with a club that has ‘unlimited ambition.’

The Coppa Italia quarter-final against Napoli kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time, to decide who faces Inter in the semi-final.

Como set no limits on Coppa Italia ambition

“Our idea is to keep growing, week by week, with the work of Cesc and the squad in training,” director Ludi told Sport Mediaset.

“We cannot know where we will end up, but the ambition of this club is unlimited. We want to keep raising the bar every single time.”

It is always a special moment when Fabregas faces off against Antonio Conte, who was his coach when Chelsea won the FA Cup.

They already met earlier this season in a 0-0 draw at the Stadio Maradona in Serie A, where Vanja Milinkovic-Savic parried an Alvaro Morata penalty.

Big clubs are believed to be sniffing around the coach, so are Como worried about someone making Fabregas an offer?

“It has already happened. Cesc was a world class player and he is even better as a coach,” said Ludi.

“We are in a honeymoon period, he is added value for the present and the near future.”

Como are well-rested, because their Serie A Week 24 fixture against Milan was rescheduled to February 18 due to San Siro being used for the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Tasos Douvikas is only on the bench, so it looks as if Nico Paz could be used as a False 9, or alternatively Jayden Addai.

The toxic atmosphere at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium reached a breaking point on Tuesday night as home supporters made their feelings known during a dismal display against Newcastle United.

With Spurs trailing and appearing devoid of ideas, the stadium echoed with the loud, rhythmic chanting of one specific name: Mauricio Pochettino.

Tottenham fans chant Mauricio Pochettino’s name

With Spurs trailing one-nil at half-time, Jay Harris, Tottenham correspondent for The Athletic, took to X to confirm the scenes.

Harris reported: “Spurs fans loudly chanting Mauricio Pochettino’s name.”

Spurs fans loudly chanting Mauricio Pochettino's name

— Jay Harris (@jaydmharris) February 10, 2026

The choice of chant is a pointed message to the board. Pochettino, who led Spurs to a Champions League final and a golden era of Premier League stability, is currently serving as the head coach of the USA National Team.

However, his enduring special connection with the club remains a shadow over every underperforming successor.

Pochettino himself made headlines with his recent comments about Tottenham, claiming that the club should be competing among the best.

For the fans, the Argentine represents a standard of football and ambition that is currently missing in N17.

Pressure mounts on Thomas Frank

The backdrop to these chants is the increasingly perilous position of manager Thomas Frank.

Following a 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle, Tottenham’s losing run has extended into a full-blown crisis.

Goals from Malick Thiaw and Jacob Ramsey cancelled out a brief glimmer of hope provided by an Archie Gray equaliser, leaving Spurs in 16th place, just five points above the relegation zone.

​

The post Tottenham fans send clear message as one manager’s name rings out against Newcastle appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace signed Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa during the January transfer window.

The player made his debut against Brighton recently, and he created the match-winning goal for his team. The Ivory Coast attacker came on as a substitute and made an immediate impact.

Evann Guessand has made his mark

Crystal Palace fans were delighted with his performance on his debut for the club, and most of them took to social media to demand his permanent signing at the end of the season. The Eagles have an option to sign the player permanently in the summer, but the deal could become an obligation if certain conditions are met.

Given his performance against Brighton, Crystal Palace will certainly be delighted to sign him permanently in the summer. It remains to be seen whether he can sustain that level of performance in the coming weeks.

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Feb 10 2026, 23:21

West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy

Feb 10 2026, 22:35

Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds

Feb 10 2026, 22:03

Guessand could be a key player

He has previously shown his quality in France, and there is no doubt that he is a quality player. However, he struggled at Aston Villa. The West Midlands club will look to let him go permanently, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops. A permanent move in the summer could be ideal for all parties. The player will focus on his performances and look to establish himself as an important player for the Eagles.

This is a great opportunity for him to get his career back on track through regular high-level football. Crystal Palace have an exciting team, and they will hope that Guessand can help him bounce back after a disappointing first half of the season.

The Ivorian is at the peak of his career, and if he manages to continue performing at a high-level in the coming months, he could be an asset for the club.

The post Crystal Palace fans in awe of January signing after impressive debut appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace beat Brighton in their last Premier League clash, and they will look to get back on track with a series of impressive displays. 

They have been quite poor in recent weeks, and it remains to be seen whether their January signings can help turn things around in their favour.

Shearer on Jorgen Strand Larsen

Former Premier League striker Alan Shearer has now questioned the signing of Jorgen Strand Larsen. He believes that Crystal Palace have paid a lot of money for a player who has just one league goal this season. It will be interesting to see whether the Norwegian can return to his best and help Palace have a strong season.

Shearer said to Metro: “The Strand Larsen of last season can lift Crystal Palace but I’m not sure this season’s version can. It’s unbelievable amount of money to pay for someone who has one league goal this season. He has to show the form of last season and not this one if he wants to prove himself at Palace.”

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: What Tottenham fans told Thomas Frank after the final whistle suggests his time is up

Feb 10 2026, 23:21

West Ham United plotting summer move for 20-year-old German prodigy

Feb 10 2026, 22:35

Watch: Cole Palmer with the miss of the season as Chelsea held by Leeds

Feb 10 2026, 22:03

Can Larsen silence his critics?

The post Alan Shearer “not sure” whether January signing can lift Crystal Palace out of their slump appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Following the drama surrounding Mohamed Salah, Arne Slot has restored him to the starting lineup in Liverpool’s most recent matches. However, the Egyptian’s future seems increasingly likely to move away from Anfield by the end of the season. In this context, the veteran is reportedly edging closer to a move to the Saudi Pro League, as Karim Benzema’s departure has opened the door for him to take on a leading role.

According to Santi Aouna of Footmercato, Al Ittihad are already in talks with Mohamed Salah’s agent to secure his arrival for the 2026–27 season. With the Egyptian still under contract at Liverpool until 2027, his departure could involve a transfer fee—something the club may be open to amid the issues they have experienced with the veteran this season. As a result, Salah could become the face of the Saudi Pro League.

Following the departures of N’Golo Kanté and Karim Benzema, Mohamed Salah could be offered an extremely high salary at Al Ittihad, valued at £400,000 per week (nearly $544,000 per week), reports the Daily Mirror. As a highly recognizable figure in the Middle East, the Egyptian’s arrival could have a significant cultural impact and head coach Sérgio Conceição would gain a prolific goalscoring figure, having lost his two biggest stars.

The Reds seem open to Mohamed Salah’s departure, but they would require a £30–50 million fee from a Saudi Pro League club to make it happen. With interest from Al Hilal and Al Qadsiah, Al Ittihad are moving quickly to finalize the operation, aiming to secure the Egyptian’s arrival for the 2026–27 season, according to Topskills Sports UK. Moreover, the veteran has supposedly already agreed to the proposal, leaving only the clubs to reach an agreement.

Liverpool face a major attacking shakeup as Salah’s exit looms

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Liverpool have experienced a rather particular offensive downturn, as the departure of Luis Díaz left the team without a true dribbling winger. Moreover, Mohamed Salah’s exit is approaching, which would leave the team without a range of wingers. In addition, the Reds are also looking to allow Federico Chiesa to leave for Serie A. For this reason, they are reportedly seeking to reinforce their offense.

According to several reports in England, the Reds are determined to target a dribbling winger to strengthen their offense. Backing the continuity of Dominik Szoboszlai as a right winger, they are instead looking toward Bradley Barcola or Yan Diomande to reinforce the left flank. With the sales of Chiesa and Salah, Liverpool could afford a move for either of the two stars, a deal that would exceed €100 million, TEAMtalk reports.

Neymar and Lionel Messi are close friends and never miss an opportunity to show their bond. In this case, the Brazilian forward gave the Argentine star a gift that also pays tribute to the FIFA World Cup icon Pele.

On Tuesday, Santos shared a photo on their official social media accounts showing Messi posing with the No. 10 Santos jersey featuring Neymar Jr’s name, accompanied by his sons Thiago and Mateo, who also received identical gifts.

“From Neymar Jr to Lionel Messi. From the Prince to the Genius,” the Brazilian club wrote in the post. “The Sacred Jersey, of immeasurable value, with the number eternalized by the King. 10 of Neymar. 10 of Messi. 10 of Pelé. An infinite legacy in the history of football. Greetings from Vila Belmiro, Lionel Messi!”

Indeed, it is a jersey with a glorious history. Pele was, of course, the most important player to wear it between 1956 and 1974, achieving six Brazilian Serie A titles, two Copa Libertadores, and two Intercontinental Cups. During that period, Pele also established himself as the most important player of his generation, leading Brazil to three World Cup titles in 1958, 1962, and 1970.

In more recent years, other stars have worn the No. 10 at Santos, including Robinho, Diego, Paulo Ganso, and Gabriel Barbosa. Neymar wore the No. 11 during his first spell at the club, but upon his return in early 2025, he assumed his superstar status and finally took the jersey that Pele wore for nearly two decades.

The friendship between Messi and Neymar goes beyond the present

Neymar and Messi first crossed paths on the field during the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup, when Barcelona beat Santos 4-0 to claim the title. Two years later, the Brazilian forward was signed by Barcelona and began a successful four-year spell alongside Messi.

That time together helped forge a deep friendship that endured even after Neymar’s controversial move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. Four years later, Messi followed a similar path, and they were teammates in France for two more seasons.

Their friendship has remained strong since then, despite often being rivals at the international level. In fact, after defeating Neymar’s Brazil in the final of the 2021 Copa America, Messi briefly stepped away from Argentina’s celebrations to spend time talking with his friend on the sidelines.

Will Messi and Neymar meet again on the field?

Messi seems destined to finish his career with Inter Miami, where his contract runs until December 31, 2028, when he will be 41. Neymar, meanwhile, likely has several years left as a professional, having just turned 34. However, his future beyond this season remains uncertain.

Given the unlikely scenario of Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. crossing paths again at the club level again—either as teammates or rivals—their next possible encounter may be at the international level.

Neymar’s main goal is to regain his best physical and sporting form to return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At the same time, while Messi has not confirmed it, everything indicates he will play his sixth World Cup with Argentina this summer. If both teams win their respective groups, Argentina and Brazil could meet in the semifinals.

Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has fueled exponential growth for the franchise over the past few years, culminating in the club reaching the top of Major League Soccer in overall valuation. With Inter Miami now valued at $1.45 billion, questions naturally arise over where other star-linked franchises, such as Son Heung-min’s LAFC and Thomas Müller’s Vancouver Whitecaps, rank across the league.

Sportico, the sports business publication, released its annual MLS franchise valuation rankings for 2026, and for the first time in the list’s history, Inter Miami sits atop the league. The club’s valuation of $1.45 billion places it ahead of every other MLS franchise, reflecting both on-field success and rapid commercial growth.

Compared to the 2025 edition of Sportico’s rankings, the Messi-captained side ranked second with a valuation of $1.19 billion. Following their MLS Cup triumph and with the opening of Miami Freedom Park approaching, the Herons posted a one-year valuation increase of 22 percent, the largest jump in the league, ahead of Chicago Fire FC, which recorded a 20 percent rise.

Where do LAFC and the Whitecaps rank?

With Inter Miami now leading MLS in valuation, attention shifts to where the rest of the league’s marquee clubs fall in the rankings. Son Heung-min’s LAFC, which had topped Sportico’s MLS valuations in every previous edition, now sits second with a valuation of $1.4 billion.

Despite losing the top spot, LAFC have hardly experienced a downturn. After being valued at $1.28 billion in 2025, the club posted a 9 percent annual increase, reinforcing its status as one of the league’s most financially successful and stable franchises.

Rounding out the top 10 are LA Galaxy ($1.17 billion), Atlanta United ($1.14 billion), New York City FC ($1.12 billion), Seattle Sounders FC ($915 million), Austin FC ($910 million), Columbus Crew ($800 million), and FC Cincinnati ($790 million). Meanwhile, despite being one of the headline moves of the 2025 summer transfer window, Vancouver Whitecaps are notably absent from the league’s top tier.

In fact, the Thomas Müller-led Whitecaps saw a decline year over year, both in position and valuation. Vancouver ranks 29th among MLS franchises at $450 million, reflecting a 4 percent annual decrease, ahead of only CF Montréal, which sits last at $430 million.

How much were Inter Miami worth before Lionel Messi?

Since their founding in 2018, Inter Miami’s most recognizable figure had been co-owner David Beckham, with the club steadily growing but remaining outside the league’s top valuation tier. In Sportico’s 2022 report, the Herons ranked 10th in MLS with a valuation of $585 million.

Messi’s arrival in 2023 proved transformative. Inter Miami surged to a $1.02 billion valuation in the 2024 report, and with nearly another half-billion added since then, Messi’s impact has extended well beyond the pitch, reshaping the club’s global profile and financial standing.

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Giovanni Manna insists the Coppa Italia quarter-final against Como is ‘a very important competition,’ but he wishes Napoli had played this season ‘with a normal number of injuries.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time, to decide who faces Inter in the semi-final.

Como are well-rested, because their Serie A Week 24 fixture against Milan was rescheduled to February 18 due to San Siro being used for the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Napoli reshuffle again in Coppa Italia

“This is part of the sport, it’s not our fault and not theirs either, so we are not seeking any alibis,” Manna told Sport Mediaset.

“It is a very important competition, we want a prestigious semi-final against Inter. We are accustomed now to playing in difficult circumstances, so we’ll give our best.”

Scott McTominay aggravated an inflammation of the tendon in his thigh and is therefore rested, with David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne injured.

It means January signing Giovane gets his first start for Napoli, while Alisson Santos is on the bench. Are they the buys Manna wanted in mid-season?

“It was certainly more complicated than we had hoped, we tried to do some other deals, but the parameters weren’t suitable. So we decided to focus on two young players with margin for significant improvement and in my view can be functional for our style of football both today and in future.

“So we are eager to see them in action, but also in no rush.”

Others like Matteo Politano and Romelu Lukaku are only fit for the bench, while Alessandro Buongiorno is left out after his disastrous performance against Genoa.

Goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic returns after several weeks out with a muscular problem, especially as his penalty save allowed Napoli to earn a 0-0 draw here with Como in November.

“I would prefer to have seen how things would’ve gone if we’d had the full squad at our disposal, or at least a normal number of injuries. I’d have loved to be able to see how this team would’ve handled the season in normal circumstances,” noted Manna when asked how the campaign was going.

“Seeing as that was not possible, we have to look forward. We already won the Supercoppa Italiana, we have the chance to progress in the Coppa Italia, it’s true we went out of the Champions League, but in Serie A we are pretty much where we expected to be.

“What happened is not an alibi. We are fortunate enough to have a great squad, a real coach, and a group with guts. That has allowed us to stay pretty much on track, then we’ll see what happens.”

Khephren Thuram reveals what it feels like to face his brother Marcus and why he thinks their father Lilian will be cheering on Juventus against Inter. ‘Our whole family will be in the stands.’

The Derby d’Italia kicks off at San Siro on Saturday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Neutrals will be hoping for a repeat of the extraordinary thriller that saw Juve emerge 4-3 winners in stoppages, with both Thuram brothers on target.

Thuram brothers face off in Derby d’Italia

“When you grow up with a brother who plays football, it’s natural you would always love to be in the same team,” Khephren told Sky Sport Italia.

“In school, we would always pick each other first to go into our sides. But now we are professionals, we both play for big Italian clubs, and that is good too. I hope to play many games alongside him for France.

“I expect a great game, because these are two big teams, both playing well, and tough on a tactical level. It will be difficult for both sides.”

Will the two brothers speak before the big match this weekend?

“We speak every day, but never about matches. We discuss more important things than football. Our whole family will be in the stands this time, though.”

It is a situation where their father, former Juventus and Parma defender Lilian, is going to feel a little torn.

However, Khephren has an idea of why the Bianconeri might get the benefit of a smile from their dad.

“He will be neutral, but I am the baby, so perhaps he’ll have a little bit more attention towards me.”

Juventus have certainly boosted their form since Luciano Spalletti took over from Igor Tudor, so how does the coach differ from his predecessor?

“He asks me to always keep moving, to anticipate the play, but the most important thing is to play with my qualities and know that I am strong,” said Khephren Thuram.

“He is one of the coaches who most in my career has tried to make me understand my own strength. I enjoy working with him, he also gives me tips on where to improve, but I’ll keep those details to myself.

“Spalletti is very demanding with the team, he asks us for many things, and we try to deliver for him.”

With Scott McTominay out of action, Napoli rely on Rasmus Hojlund, Giovane and returning Vanja Milinkovic-Savic against Nico Paz’s Como in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time.

Whoever goes through can then prepare for the semi-final against Inter.

Napoli earned a controversial last-gasp 3-2 victory away to Genoa in Serie A at the weekend, but McTominay felt pain from a recurring inflammation after scoring one of the goals.

He is therefore rested, with the usual list of absentees like David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne.

The good news is that goalkeeper Milinkovic-Savic is available after a couple of weeks out, with Matteo Politano and Romelu Lukaku fit for the bench.

January signing Giovane therefore steps into the trident attack with Hojlund and Antonio Vergara, dropping Eljif Elmas into midfield to replace McTominay.

Como have been the surprise outfit of this season under coach Cesc Fabregas, and already held Napoli to a 0-0 draw here in Serie A.

Nico Paz is the star man in attack, with impressive Martin Baturina and Jayden Addai, but with Tasos Douvikas and Alvaro Morata on the bench, it’s possible the Argentine will be used as a False 9.

Edoardo Goldaniga and Assane Diao are on the treatment table, but the squad is rested because their Serie A Week 24 fixture with Milan was postponed to February 18 so San Siro could prepare for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Of course, this is a big reunion for Fabregas and Antonio Conte, who worked together to win the FA Cup at Chelsea.

It could also be the first Coppa Italia semi-final for Como in 40 years, since eliminating then reigning Champions of Italy Verona in 1986.

Napoli vs. Como official line-ups

Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Juan Jesus; Mazzocchi, Lobotka, Elmas, Olivera; Giovane, Vergara; Hojlund

Como: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Perrone, Sergi Roberto; Addai, Caqueret, Baturina; Nico Paz

10-02-2026 20:00

1/4 Final

Stadio Diego Armando Maradona

Napoli

Como

1 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

		39'		Martin Baturina
		44'		Jacobo Ramón

2nd half

Antonio Vergara (Assist: Rasmus Højlund)		46'
		62'		Sergi Roberto
Eljif Elmas		69'

Penalty shootout

	Event
Matteo Politano
Romelu Lukaku
Leonardo Spinazzola
Alisson Santos
Eljif Elmas
Vanja Milinković-Savić
Miguel Gutiérrez
Stanislav Lobotka

Event
	Lucas Da Cunha
	Anastasios Douvikas
	Martin Baturina
	Máximo Perrone
	Ivan Smolcic
	Diego Carlos
	Mërgim Vojvoda
	Marc Oliver Kempf

Match statistic

48

Possession %

52

8

Total shots

9

3

Shots on target

4

1

Shots off target

2

4

Blocked shots

3

6

Corners

4

1

Offsides

3

13

Fouls

8

Napoli

Como

Starting lineups

32

Vanja Milinković-Savić

Goalkeeper

13

Amir Rrahmani

Defender

5

Juan Jesus

Defender

17

Mathías Olivera

Defender

60'

30

Pasquale Mazzocchi

Defender

61'

31

Sam Beukema

Defender

26

Antonio Vergara

Midfielder

74'

20

Eljif Elmas

Midfielder

68

Stanislav Lobotka

Midfielder

23

Giovane

Attacker

61'

19

Rasmus Højlund

Attacker

74'

1

Jean Butez

Goalkeeper

3

Álex Valle

Defender

34

Diego Carlos

Defender

28

Ivan Smolcic

Defender

14

Jacobo Ramón

Defender

53'

20

Martin Baturina

Midfielder

6

Maxence Caqueret

Midfielder

53'

23

Máximo Perrone

Midfielder

10

Nico Paz

Midfielder

82'

8

Sergi Roberto

Midfielder

67'

42

Jayden Addai

Attacker

67'

Substitutes

1

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

14

Nikita Contini

Goalkeeper

4

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

98

Emmanuele De Chiara

Midfielder

95

Vincenzo Prisco

Midfielder

37

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

60'

21

Matteo Politano

Attacker

61'

27

Alisson Santos

Attacker

61'

9

Romelu Lukaku

Attacker

74'

3

Miguel Gutiérrez

Defender

74'

7

Álvaro Morata

Attacker

22

Mauro Vigorito

Goalkeeper

77

Ignace Van Der Brempt

Defender

18

Alberto Moreno

Defender

19

Nicolas Kühn

Attacker

21

Noel Törnqvist

Goalkeeper

98

Samuele Pisati

Attacker

Adrian Lahdo

Midfielder

11

Anastasios Douvikas

Attacker

53'

2

Marc Oliver Kempf

Defender

53'

33

Lucas Da Cunha

Attacker

67'

17

Jesús Rodriguez

Attacker

67'

31

Mërgim Vojvoda

Defender

82'

Vincenzo Italiano outlines where Bologna must be more alert and effective if they are to break the crisis against Lazio in the Coppa Italia quarter-final. ‘We must battle for every ball.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Wednesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

The winners will be decided after 90 minutes or go directly to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no provision for extra time.

Whoever emerges will then go on to play Atalanta in a two-legged semi-final.

Italiano dealing with Bologna crisis

Although Bologna are the reigning Coppa Italia holders and reached the Supercoppa Italiana Final, losing to Napoli in December, their recent Serie A form has been dismal.

Since the start of December, they scraped just one Serie A victory, three draws and eight defeats, crumbling 1-0 at home to Parma over the weekend.

“We must battle for every ball, knowing that any situation can become favourable, for example in the build-up to the Christian Ordonez goal for Parma,” said Italiano in his press conference.

“This is when we need determination and presence. I ask all the players to read the game, to have a greater sense of danger.

“We also must create more scoring opportunities, that is the key to emerging from this difficult moment. We know the path that we have to take.”

Balancing Serie A, the Coppa Italia, Europa League and Supercoppa Italiana is proving to be quite a strain on Bologna’s resources this season.

“What surprised me the most is how much energy we waste, we are struggling to recover from one match to the next. Our focus has to be on preparation and studying the opponents.”

Lazio have changed quite a bit in the January transfer window, with some players leaving and others like Kenneth Taylor and Petar Ratkov arriving.

“Lazio achieved a great result against an on form Juventus at the weekend, but Maurizio Sarri and I know each other well. We’ve got to put in an impeccable performance if we are to reach the semi-final,” concluded Italiano.

Torbjorn Heggem and Lorenzo De Silvestri are out of action.

Bologna squad for Lazio

Pessina, Ravaglia, Skorupski, Casale, Helland, Lucumì, Joao Mario, Miranda, Vitik, Zortea, Ferguson, Freuler, Moro, Pobega, Sohm, Bernardeschi, Cambiaghi, Castro, Dallinga, Dominguez, Odgaard, Orsolini, Rowe

Manchester United have been told to sign Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur.

According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester United icon Paul Scholes has urged the club to sign the Argentine defender at the end of the season. The 27-year-old has been linked with a move away from Tottenham, and it will be interesting to see if Manchester United is willing to provide him with an exit route.

The defender will cost around £70-80 million. Manchester United certainly have the financial muscle to avoid him, and he could prove to be an excellent acquisition for them. It is no secret that they need a quality central defender, and the South American could be ideal. Apart from his qualities as a defender, his leadership skills could prove to be invaluable as well. He could be the ideal long-term replacement for Harry Maguire at Old Trafford.

The opportunity to join Manchester United could be tempting for the South American. He will look to fight for major trophies, and the chance to represent Manchester United will be hard to pass up.

They have shown great improvement in recent weeks, and they will look to fight for trophies in the coming seasons. The defender will certainly be attracted to the idea of taking the next step in his career and joining a bigger club. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact at Old Trafford. Even though the transfer would be a substantial investment, the player’s quality would justify the move and establish him as an indispensable asset for the club.

Manchester United need elite players like him if they want to compete regularly for major trophies.

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Saudi Arabian giants Al Ittihad have reportedly opened talks with the representative of Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, reigniting speculation over one of football’s longest-running transfer sagas.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the Egyptian international is now significantly “more open” to a move to Saudi Arabia, marking a notable shift in his stance compared to previous windows.

Mohamed Salah open to Saudi Pro League move as Al Ittihad open talks

Despite signing a lucrative contract extension with Liverpool until 2027 following a stellar 2024–25 season, Salah’s position has evolved.

While the 33-year-old had previously prioritised staying in the Premier League, reports claim his agent, Ramy Abbas Issa, is now actively engaging with Al Ittihad.

The Jeddah-based club are desperate to land a global superstar to spearhead a new era and view Salah as the ultimate marquee signing capable of restoring them to the summit of the Saudi Pro League.

Liverpool could sell Salah after difficult 2025–26 season

Momentum towards a potential exit has gathered pace amid a turbulent 2025–26 campaign at Anfield.

Liverpool have struggled domestically and currently sit sixth in the Premier League, while tensions reportedly escalated when Salah publicly clashed with head coach Arne Slot after being benched for three consecutive matches.

Although Salah has since returned to the starting XI, there are growing suggestions that relations behind the scenes remain strained.

The forward previously hinted that someone at the club no longer wants him at Liverpool, sparking speculation over internal discussions about cashing in.

From Liverpool’s perspective, this summer could represent their final opportunity to secure a massive transfer fee while also removing Salah’s significant wage package.

Salah will go down as one of Liverpool’s greatest ever

Should Salah depart this summer, he would do so as an undisputed Liverpool legend.

Since joining from Roma in 2017, the “Egyptian King” has been the driving force behind the club’s modern success, registering 251 goals and 119 assists in 426 appearances across all competitions.

Mohamed Salah’s stats for Liverpool across all competitions

Salah has shattered numerous club and Premier League records, establishing himself as not only one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players, but one of the Premier League’s all-time greats.

Last season, he single-handedly powered Liverpool to a Premier League title, scoring 29 goals and providing 18 assists in 38 league games.

Across all competitions, he finished with 34 goals and 23 assists, in what many considered should have won him the Ballon d’Or.

During his nine years at Anfield, Salah has helped Liverpool win a Champions League, two Premier League titles, two League Cups, and an FA Cup, while also becoming the club’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer.

If this truly marks the end of Salah’s chapter on Merseyside, the farewell at Anfield would be one befitting a genuine footballing icon.

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Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on the Gambian defender Sedi Kinteh.

According to a report from The Daily Mail, Manchester United are keeping tabs on the 19-year-old, and his performance has impressed Jason Wilcox.

Kinteh has done quite well for Tromso and has attracted Chelsea’s attention as well. The 19-year-old is not just a quality defender; his recovery pace has been extremely impressive. The defender clocked a top speed of over 37 km/h this season, which makes some as fast as the Tottenham star Micky van de Ven.

Kinteh is capable of operating centrally as well as a fullback. His versatility could be a huge bonus for Manchester United or Chelsea in future. It remains to be seen if either of the two clubs decides to come forward with an offer to sign him. The opportunity to join a premier league will be exciting for the youngster. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to test himself at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the defender could be available for a fee of €6 million. Manchester United and Chelsea certainly have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen where the 19-year-old ends up. He should look to join a club where there is a prominent role for him. He needs ample first-team exposure in order to improve further and fulfil his potential. Sitting on the bench at a big club would be detrimental to his development. Therefore, he should choose his next destination very carefully. At the reported asking price, he could be a major bargain for either club.

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Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Antonio Rudiger at the end of the season, and the player is ready to return to the Premier League.

According to a report from TeamTalk, the German International will be out of contract at the end of the season, and the 33-year-old is unlikely to sign a new deal with the Spanish club. The player is currently exploring his options and has already held talks with multiple clubs in England.

The defender is reportedly open to taking a pay cut to return to the Premier League. It will be interesting to see if Spurs sign the player on a free transfer. They need more depth in the defensive unit, and the 33-year-old could be ideal.

He has played in the Premier League with Chelsea, and he should be able to settle in quickly and make an immediate impact. Apart from his quality as a defender, Spurs could use his leadership skills and winning experience as well. The 33-year-old could prove to be an excellent acquisition for them. The defender helped Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League during his time at the London club, and he will help the club win trophies as well.

Cristian Romero is expected to leave the club at the end of the season, and the German International could be a short-term replacement for him. Signing a player of his quality on a free transfer could prove to be an excellent move for Tottenham. It remains to be seen whether they can secure an agreement with the player in the coming weeks. The defender is eligible to secure a pre-contractor agreement with Tottenham now.

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Arne Slot believes this has been the toughest season of his career “by a mile” as his Liverpool side prepare to take on Sunderland on Wednesday. The Reds suffered their eighth loss of the Premier League season on Sunday, when they fell to a late 2-1 defeat against Manchester City at Anfield. The reigning champions […]

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have once again found themselves at the center of global soccer headlines, but this time in an unexpected setting, the Saudi Pro League. The former Real Madrid teammates, who once dominated Europe together, are now writing a new chapter of their rivalry in the Middle East, where ambition, legacy, and ego collide under the desert floodlights.

While Ronaldo will soon return to lead Al-Nassr with his relentless pursuit of trophies and personal milestones, Benzema has reignited the spotlight with a dramatic club switch and a statement performance that sent shockwaves across Saudi soccer. The rivalry that once defined the Bernabeu has resurfaced in a new landscape, with tensions reportedly simmering behind the scenes.

In recent days, reports suggested that the Frenchman delivered a cheeky message to his longtime friend and rival, adding fuel to the already heated competition between their clubs. It has thus sparked speculation about how it might have affected Ronaldo’s mood amid growing frustration at Al-Nassr.

The backdrop to this story is dramatic. Benzema has just completed a high-profile transfer, Ronaldo has reportedly taken strike action over recruitment concerns, and both players are still chasing domestic dominance and legacy-defining milestones in Saudi Arabia.

Benzema’s playful jab revealed

The mystery was unveiled when multiple reports detailed the nature of Benzema’s message to Ronaldo following his move to Al-Hilal. According to The Telegraph, the French striker contacted Ronaldo with a tongue-in-cheek text referencing his improved salary and renewed title ambitions. “He jokingly observed that not only had he got a pay-rise but he was also going to win the title again,” the report stated.

The message was reportedly friendly in tone, reflecting the enduring relationship between the two legends, but it carried a competitive edge that did not go unnoticed. Various reports suggest the Portuguese’s frustration deepened after receiving the playful jab, particularly as he watched his former teammate thrive in a rival club while his own side struggled to make marquee signings.

Benzema’s dream start at Al-Hilal and another title battle

Benzema wasted no time in making an impact at his new club. He enjoyed a dream debut, scoring a hat-trick in his first appearance, immediately justifying Al-Hilal’s decision to bring him in and reinforcing their title ambitions. His move from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal was considered a major statement in the Saudi market, signaling the club’s intent to dominate both domestic and continental competitions.

Fans and analysts alike saw the transfer as the beginning of a new era in the league’s power struggle. The playful exchange between the two stars has been interpreted as a symbolic revival of their rivalry—this time on Saudi soil. Once partners in Real Madrid’s golden era, they are now competitors in a league eager to establish itself on the global stage.

Cristiano Ronaldo could finally have a reason to smile again as Al-Nassr moves to secure the future of one of his most trusted allies in the squad. After weeks of turbulence, internal tensions, and speculation surrounding his commitment, the Portuguese icon now appears poised to lead the club forward with renewed confidence.

The Saudi giants have recently entered discussions to extend the contract of a key midfield figure, a player regarded as a cornerstone of the team’s structure and an essential part of Ronaldo’s support system on the pitch. With the captain’s influence in the dressing room growing once more, the move signals stability at a time when Al-Nassr is eager to reset and refocus on silverware.

Ronaldo’s recent absence from the Riyadh outfit’s matches sparked widespread speculation. The 41-year-old missed two Saudi Pro League fixtures, including a 2-0 win over Al-Ittihad and a victory against Al-Riyadh, fueling rumors of internal conflict. The situation escalated when reports suggested that Ronaldo was unhappy with the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) involvement in club operations and transfer decisions, especially after rival Al-Hilal secured Karim Benzema.

Eventually, the star forward signaled the end of the dispute in symbolic fashion, posting a training photo with a victory-hand emoji, confirming his return. According to reports, he is set to play against Al-Fateh and potentially feature in the AFC Champions League Two fixture.

The conflict was rooted in governance and financial issues, with Ronaldo reportedly pushing for the settlement of delayed salaries and the restoration of autonomy to club executives. With his demands addressed, the Portuguese’s return will mark the end of a tense chapter.

The mystery teammate at the heart of Al-Nassr’s plans

While Ronaldo’s situation dominated headlines, another development quietly emerged behind the scenes, one that could shape Al-Nassr’s midfield for years to come. In the middle of ongoing restructuring and renewed ambitions, Al-Nassr opened formal discussions to extend the contract of their Croatian midfield general, Marcelo Brozovic.

According to Arriyadiyah, Al-Nassr has opened negotiations to renew Marcelo Brozovic’s contract, which is set to expire at the end of June. Talks are currently in the preliminary stages, with the player and his representatives awaiting a first official meeting to discuss terms. “The management of Al-Nassr Club has begun serious steps to ensure the continued presence of Croatian Marcelo Brozovic in the team for the upcoming phase,” the report stated.

The 33-year-old is viewed as one of the most important components of the squad, providing balance, experience, and technical quality in midfield. Despite attracting interest from European clubs, he is said to prioritize staying in Riyadh, reflecting his importance to the club’s long-term project.

Key pillar in the midfield

The Croatian international has played 24 matches this season, scoring one goal and providing four assists, but his impact extends far beyond statistics. His control of tempo, defensive awareness, and ability to link play have made him indispensable in Al-Nassr’s tactical setup. For Ronaldo, having a reliable midfield orchestrator is crucial.

Brozovic’s presence ensures that the Portuguese superstar can focus on attacking responsibilities while relying on a stable engine behind him. The contract talks come at a critical moment for Al-Nassr, which has undergone administrative reshuffles and board resignations amid internal disputes. With assurances given to Ronaldo and broader restructuring underway, extending the veteran’s deal would be a symbolic step toward stability.

Following a brief spell of inconsistent form, Lamine Yamal has managed to rediscover his best version, scoring in five consecutive matches. Thanks to his resurgence, Barcelona have regained winning consistency with six straight victories. Despite entering the Copa del Rey clash against Atlético Madrid as favorites, the Blaugranas have doubts over the availability of a key player after he missed the most recent training session.

According to Víctor Navarro on X, formerly Twitter, Raphinha has been training away from the group, something that has been usual since last week. The Brazilian has even stated that he is dealing with a specific overload that prevents him from running and changing direction. Despite this, he has not yet been ruled out of the match, as he could still take part in the final training session on February 11 ahead of the clash with Atlético Madrid.

Alongside his absence from Barcelona’s most recent training session, Raphinha chose to provide a somewhat confusing update on his recovery, casting doubt over his availability for the Copa del Rey semifinals. After suffering his third injury of the season, the Brazilian could start on the bench or even be left out of the squad altogether, as the club may be unwilling to risk a relapse given that he has gone just over a week without training with the group.

In the Brazilian’s uncertain presence, Hansi Flick may rely on Marcus Rashford, who has recently delivered impressive performances. Additionally, the coach might opt to position Ferran Torres as the left winger, capitalizing on his scoring prowess. Coupled with Raphinha, Pedri will be absent from Barcelona’s roster, making repeat the same strategy as in the latest game, featuring Dani Olmo in the central midfield.

Barcelona’s Hansi Flick welcomes back an important figure

After establishing winning consistency, Barcelona have managed to overcome the constant injury absences they have suffered this season. Without Pedri available and with Raphinha still a doubt, Hansi Flick has been able to maintain strong performances by relying on players such as Rashford, Marc Bernal, and Marc Casadó. In addition, the coach has welcomed back a key player ahead of the Copa del Rey semifinals.

Frenkie de Jong has rejoined Barcelona’s latest training session after recovering from his pubic issues. The Dutchman is now fully fit and primed to start against Atlético Madrid, according to Masquepelotas. With his return, the Blaugranas gain significant stability in midfield, as his partnership with Dani Olmo has been highly convincing in their pursuit of reaching the Copa del Rey final.

Turkiye coach Vincenzo Montella visited the Inter training ground today to see Hakan Calhanoglu’s recovery, and praised ‘extremely intelligent’ Cristian Chivu.

The Italian tactician is currently back home so that he can meet up with some of the Turkish football talents who are playing in Serie A, as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

After seeing Juventus and Cagliari for Kenan Yildiz and Semih Kilicsoy, today Montella was in Milan for the Inter training camp.

Montella on tour of Serie A clubs

“I am having a series of meetings, because we are getting close to the call-ups for the play-offs,” Montella told Sky Sport Italia.

“I received a warm welcome, and it was lovely to see Cristian again after so many years. Plus obviously Hakan too. So much depends on having players in good shape at the right time for international duty, so we’ve got our fingers crossed.”

pic.twitter.com/o9sGHBQmf9

— Inter (@Inter) February 10, 2026

Calhanoglu had been out of action since suffering a left soleus strain on January 11, during the Scudetto showdown with Napoli, but today was his return to training with his teammates.

Nicolò Barella also resumed work with the squad, so both are available for Saturday’s clash against Juventus.

“It is always a classic, the Derby d’Italia generally is an exciting fixture. I expect a real spectacle, regardless of the result.”

Montella was teammates with Chivu when both were in the Roma squad, so they had a warm embrace as they were reunited.

“We were teammates, there is a great rapport, he’s a really good guy and I wish him all the best. He is proving himself to be a great coach who is extremely intelligent, so he’ll do well.”

pic.twitter.com/NbycpRHnsT

— Inter (@Inter) February 10, 2026

Jean-Philippe Mateta failed a medical test with Milan to scupper his €30m transfer from Crystal Palace, but today Oliver Glasner insisted the striker ‘does not need surgery.’

The deal was all done between the clubs, and he had accepted the personal terms on offer for the move to San Siro, in a package worth in excess of €30m.

Mateta rejected by Milan after failed medical

However, it all fell apart at the final hurdle when Milan requested extra medical tests in London, their staff deciding that Mateta would not be fit for a while due to a knee injury.

It was even suggested that the centre-forward could need surgery, which would rule him out for several months.

The mystery continues, as today Crystal Palace coach Glasner tried to provide a little more clarity.

“I can’t say two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, but he doesn’t need surgery,” said Glasner.

“That’s very positive and hopefully he’s back soon.”

Instead, Crystal Palace medical staff are confident that the striker only needs two weeks of individual training to strengthen the muscles around his knee.

Juventus had also been heavily linked with Mateta during the January transfer window.

Sassuolo midfielder Nemanja Matic has received a two-match Serie A ban for insulting the referee, while others suspended include Napoli defender Juan Jesus.

The Disciplinary Commission gave its verdicts following the Week 24 fixtures, although one is still to be played.

That is because Milan vs. Como was rescheduled for February 18, as San Siro was being used for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Serie A bans after Week 24 games

Matic saw red for insulting the referee during Sassuolo’s 5-0 defeat to Inter, and he has been punished with a two-match ban, plus €10,000 fine.

Parma player Mariano Troilo was also fined €2,000 and given a one-match ban, as he initially refused to leave when sent off.

Napoli defender Juan Jesus is suspended for his team’s big match against Roma, having received two yellow cards in the 3-2 win over Genoa.

Also given one-match Serie A bans are Tommaso Pobega (Bologna), Alessio Romagnoli (Lazio), Lameck Banda (Lecce) and Marius Marin (Pisa).

Manchester United are interested in signing the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Rocco Reitz. 

The 23-year-old German has performed well in the past and is on Manchester United’s radar. The Manchester United hierarchy believes he is a modern midfielder and could prove an excellent acquisition for the club. According to a report from Fichajes, they are prepared to spend around £35 million to sign the player.

It is no secret that they need more quality and depth in the middle of the park. They need a combative midfielder who can help them control games better and add physicality and defensive steel to the side. Reitz could be the ideal acquisition for them.

He has the physical and technical attributes for English football, and he will look to establish himself as an important player for Manchester United. If the transfer goes through. The opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the world will be exciting for him. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can finalise a deal.

If Manchester United can sign him for £35 million, the investment could prove wise. The player has the potential to justify the outlay in the future.

Manchester United have shown improvement in recent weeks, but they need to further strengthen the team if they want to compete regularly with elite clubs. They will look to return to the top of English football, and they need to plug the gaps in their squad.

Along with the defence, the midfield needs strengthening, and it remains to be seen whether Manchester United can sign the right players at the end of the season.

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Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly monitoring AC Milan star Christian Pulisic as uncertainty grows over his future at the San Siro.

According to Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, the American international is “taken aback” by a lack of a formal renewal offer, despite a verbal agreement appearing close late last year.

Christian Pulisic to Liverpool?

The Reds’ interest comes at a pivotal time for their front line. With Mohamed Salah continually linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League this summer, following his fallout with Slot earlier this season, Liverpool are actively scouting long-term successors.

Pulisic, who has reinvented himself in Italy, fits the profile of a versatile, high-output attacker capable of thriving in the Premier League.

Under Massimiliano Allegri, Pulisic has been a revelation this season, tallying 10 goals and 2 assists in 20 appearances.

His ability to operate as a second striker, a traditional winger, or a playmaker makes him an attractive proposition for Arne Slot’s tactical setup.

Arsenal also interested in Pulisic

While Arsenal are also mentioned in the report with interest in the player, a move to North London appears less certain.

Mikel Arteta’s squad is currently well-stocked in wide areas, and Pulisic’s deep-rooted connection to Chelsea, Arsenal’s fierce London rivals, could complicate a potential deal.

However, with Milan setting a rumored asking price of €55 million, the Gunners remain in the conversation should they look to add elite depth.

Manchester United and Aston Villa have also been linked with a move for the attacker.

Pulisic’s stint in the Premier League with Chelsea

Pulisic’s current form is a far cry from the inconsistency that defined the end of his four-year stint at Stamford Bridge.

Despite winning the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021, injuries and managerial changes saw him fall down the pecking order.

Since moving to Serie A in 2023, the 27-year-old has shed the injury-prone label, becoming Milan’s most reliable offensive threat.

In 120 games for the Italian giants, he has scored 42 and assisted another 25 across all competitions.

His versatility has been his most attractive attribute with the American capable of playing in a number of positions.

Christian Pulisic’s stats across various position via Transfermarkt

While primarily a right-winger, he has done incredibly well at left-wing as well as an attacking midfielder and a second striker.

While Milan officially extended goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s contract recently, the delay in formalising Pulisic’s extension until 2027 has left the door open for a sensational Premier League return.

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Chelsea are interested in signing the Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi.

The 28-year-old has done quite well for the Premier League club, and he has attracted the attention of Crystal Palace and Everton as well. According to Fichajes, Chelsea have reportedly expressed formal interest in signing the 28-year-old Argentine, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.

They need to improve their defence if they want to compete for major trophies. Signing a reliable Premier League performer could prove to be a wise decision. The 28-year-old is likely to be attracted to the idea of joining Chelsea. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth have made multiple attempts to renew his contract and extend his stay at the club. However, negotiations have failed, and Chelsea are looking to capitalise on the situation.

It will be interesting to see if they follow up on their interest with an official offer at the end of the season.

The player has also been linked to a move to Barcelona. It remains to be seen where he ends up. This is the right time for him to take the next step in his career and join a bigger club where he can pursue major trophies.

Both clubs will be attractive destinations for the defender.

Chelsea probably have more financial resources compared to the Spanish club, and that could give them an edge in the transfer race.

Barcelona could use more depth in the defensive unit, and the 28-year-old would be an excellent acquisition. It remains to be seen where he ends up.

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Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.

The 25-year-old Italian International is on the radar of multiple clubs, and Newcastle have already set their asking price for him. According to a report from Fichajes, the player is a target for Arsenal but will face competition from Manchester United and Liverpool.

The report claims that the midfield will cost around £80-100 million. It will be interesting to see if any of the three clubs is willing to come forward and submit an offer for him in the summer.

Tonali has been a reliable performer for Newcastle in the Premier League, and there is no doubt that he deserves to play for a bigger club. The opportunity to join Arsenal, Manchester United or Liverpool would be ideal for him.

However, Arsenal are already well-stocked in the middle of the park, and it will be interesting to see if they can accommodate the Italian in the starting lineup. As far as Liverpool are concerned, they need a defensive midfielder like him. They have looked quite vulnerable defensively, and the arrival of the Italian will help them tighten up at the back. His arrival would also allow players like Ryan Gravenberch to operate with more freedom.

At Manchester United, he could be the ideal replacement for Casemiro. The Brazilian is set to leave the club at the end of the season, and Manchester United will need to replace him properly.

The asking price is quite high, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops. Newcastle will not want to lose a key player like him, but the midfielder could be tempted to move on and take on a different challenge.

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Newcastle United are ready to sell Sandro Tonali in the summer of 2026 but only for €115 million, according to Fichajes. Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal are the three Premier League clubs that are keen on a deal for Tonali, with Real Madrid have also been linked with the Italy international midfielder. Fichajes reports: ‘Aware […]

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Newcastle United will need to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in order to tempt Dusan Vlahovic to a move to St. James’ Park in the summer of 2026, according to Football Insider. Vlahovic is out of contract at Juventus at the end of the season and has yet to agree to put pen to […]

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Real Madrid are interested in signing Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2026, according to Fichajes. The Argentina international central defender is ready to quit last season’s Europa League winners, and Madrid are keen on bringing him to Estadio Bernabeu. Madrid want to sign a new centre-back this summer, and with `Romero […]

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Cristiano Ronaldo has continued to be one of the world’s top goalscorers even at the age of 41. Given this, the veteran is anticipated to be one of Portugal’s star players at the 2026 World Cup, maintaining his impressive scoring pace. Following the much-anticipated tournament, the forward might reunite with José Mourinho, 13 years after their tenure at Real Madrid, as the coach considers taking on an unexpected role.

According to ESPN, José Mourinho will be offered the chance to become Portugal’s head coach after the 2026 World Cup, as Roberto Martínez’s contract will expire. After several years without truly shining, the 63-year-old coach has managed to establish a solid sporting project at Benfica. For this reason, his departure would be far from straightforward, as he is under contract until 2027 and is viewed as a key figure in the club’s future plans.

Even though Mourinho has had many experiences with major teams in Europe, the 63-year-old coach has acknowledged his desire to coach in a UEFA Euro or World Cup: “I want to play a European Championship or a World Cup and unite a country around a team, as I have already done many times with the clubs,” he said, via Corriere Dello Sport in 2024. Then, José confessed having rejected a Brazil coaching spot to just focus on Portugal, in a potential scenario.

Considering his desire, José Mourinho might not hesitate to accept a potential offer from Portugal. Given this, Benfica would seek to continue with their ambitious sporting project, betting on Ruben Amorim, reports ESPN. Although he was dismissed by Manchester United, the young Portuguese demonstrated impressive talent with Sporting Lisbon, developing several stars and imposing a recognized style of play.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Mourinho relationship may not be as chaotic

Upon arriving at Real Madrid in 2010, José Mourinho received strong backing from Cristiano Ronaldo in the dressing room. With that support, he established himself as the best manager in the world in 2012 by IFFHS. However, his departure from the Spanish club was surrounded by controversy, with reports suggesting a possible rift between the two. In response, a former member of the club’s coaching staff has clarified that this was not entirely the case.

In an interview on Cafelito with Josep Pedrerol, Aitor Karanka, former assistant coach, revealed details about the relationship between Mourinho and Cristiano: “In a Copa match against Valencia, Mourinho tells Cristiano off. And Cristiano responds in front of everyone: ‘After everything I’ve done to support you…’ Like a father to a son. Maybe José said it precisely to provoke that reaction. I’m telling you off in front of the entire dressing room because you’re the one I trust the most.”

Alongside this, José Mourinho has always acknowledged Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the best players he has ever coached. Despite his tendency to make explosive statements, the manager has consistently made his admiration for the veteran clear. Moreover, the relationship between the two does not appear to have ended on bad terms, meaning a potential reunion in Portugal could prove positive, as both have established themselves as legends of the game.

Despite having just turned 41 a few days ago, Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the most relevant figures in world soccer. He is shaping up to be one of the main attractions at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also pursuing the milestone of 1,000 career goals. On that topic, Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos shared his thoughts.

During a recent interview with O Jogo, Roberto Carlos was asked whether he believes Ronaldo could realistically reach that goal during the World Cup with Portugal. “For those who love Cristiano and soccer, seeing him continue to make history and break records is wonderful,” the former Brazilian defender said to begin his answer.

However, he made it clear that Cristiano Ronaldo would not be the first striker in soccer history to reach that mark. “The only player to have scored 1000 goals was Pele, but Cristiano could join the list,” Roberto Carlos stated.

That claim, however, did not diminish the praise the former Real Madrid left back had for CR7. “I see him happy and confident in the Saudi league. I’m absolutely certain he’ll reach that milestone. He never gets injured. He continues to play well, he’s a role model, Portugal deserve congratulations.”

Finally, Roberto Carlos said he hopes Ronaldo extends his professional career indefinitely so fans can continue to enjoy his magic on the field. “Cristiano can’t stop, ever. If he ever decides to stop playing, I’ll call him and tell him not to stop,” joked the 2002 World Cup winner with Brazil. “He should never stop playing soccer, even if it’s just with one leg or crawling. He transmits a lot of strength and energy to any boy who wants to start.”

Did Pele reach 1,000 goals?

For some time now, Cristiano Ronaldo has insisted on his goal of reaching 1,000 career goals in order to become the first player to surpass that mark in soccer history. However, there is no universal agreement regarding those statistical conclusions. Brazilian fans have argued for decades that at least two players from their country surpassed that milestone.

Unofficial records indicate that Pele scored 1,282 goals in 1,363 matches, which would place him alone at the top of the all-time scoring list. Those figures, however, are heavily disputed because they include goals from youth matches, friendlies, and exhibition games.

Official data places the Brazilian legend much lower. According to FIFA, Pele recorded 757 goals between his debut with Santos in 1956 and his retirement with the New York Cosmos in 1980, in addition to his years with the Brazil national team.

Similarly, Romario has also claimed to have scored more than 1,000 goals during his career and says he reached that mark on May 20, 2007, while playing for Vasco da Gama. However, for the same reasons as in Pele’s case, FIFA officially credits Romario with 772 goals.

How many goals does Cristiano Ronaldo need to reach 1,000?

When it comes to Cristiano Ronaldo’s numbers, there is no debate or controversy. He has scored 961 official goals during his professional career at both club and international level. That places him at the top of the all-time scoring rankings and very close to becoming the first player to reach 1,000 goals. To do so, he needs just 39 more goals, something that could happen as soon as this year.

Match Overview

Manchester United enter a high-stakes Premier League showdown riding positive momentum, fresh off a convincing 2–0 victory against Tottenham that lifted the club to 44 points and kept it firmly positioned in the race for Champions League qualification, their primary objective this season.

With Chelsea and Liverpool applying pressure just behind them in the standings, the Red Devils know every point matters when matching up with a desperate West Ham squad stuck in 18th place on 23 points and battling to escape the drop.

Napoli’s controversial winning penalty against Genoa was ‘absolutely in no way a foul,’ confessed Dino Tommasi, representing the Italian Referees’ Association (AIA).

The incident caused a huge amount of controversy, especially as it was so decisive, happening deep into stoppages in what turned out to be a 3-2 victory for the Partenopei.

VAR spotted Maxwel Cornet’s foot on that of Antonio Vergara, which was considered the classic ‘step on foot’ that referees automatically give a penalty for, even when contact itself is fairly minimal.

The footage was analysed on the DAZN Italia show Open VAR with representative of the AIA, former referee Tommasi, who confessed it was a catalogue of errors.

Genoa denied a point by controversial Napoli penalty

“VAR Di Bello and AVAR Fabbri are drawn to the contact between Cornet and Vergara,” explained Tommasi.

“In truth, he is simply taking up a position, the movement from Cornet is entirely accidental and in absolutely no way is it a foul.

“The issue of ‘step on foot’ was created to punish recklessness, but here it is not that. He touches the top of the foot, but the dynamics of the movement are normal within football.

“There is no recklessness, and no need to punish it. The first camera angle might make it seem like a foul, but there’s very little in real football terms.

“It is an accidental ‘graze’ and fouls need to be clear, not like this.”

So was it the correct decision to get the referee to review it himself with the On-Field Review?

“With hindsight, it was not the right choice to call him. The On-Field Review is for a clear and obvious error, whereas this was a normal movement in the dynamics of the game, so the call was incorrect.”

Even when the referee had been called to evaluate it, he still could’ve stuck with his original decision not to award a penalty to Napoli.

“There are situations where the referee has correctly rejected the indications of the VAR. The referee must analyse what he sees, he is the ultimate decision-maker,” confirmed Tommasi.

VAR had already intervened in the opening minute when the referee did not spot a clear Alex Meret foul on Vitinha for a Genoa penalty.

“In this situation there are no doubts, the Meret foul on Vitinha is clear.”

Cornet colpisce il piede di Vergara Rigore per il Napoli!
L'episodio di #GenoaNapoli visto al microscopio

L'audio del VAR e la spiegazione dell'episodio ad #OpenVAR, ora su #DAZN pic.twitter.com/qWy1rnPpI6

— DAZN Italia (@DAZN_IT) February 10, 2026

There is good news for Inter ahead of Saturday’s Derby d’Italia with Juventus, as Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu are back in training.

It kicks off at San Siro on Saturday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET) and reignites the bitter rivalry as well as precious points in the top four.

Inter welcome back star midfielders

The Nerazzurri are on a roll at the moment and flying away at the top of the table, despite missing half their first choice midfield.

Denzel Dumfries is still out of action following ankle surgery, but there was a significant development today, because Barella and Calhanoglu returned to training.

The Turkish veteran had been missing since limping off during the game with Napoli, suffering from a left soleus strain on January 11.

As for Barella, he suffered a right thigh problem in training ahead of the Champions League trip to Borussia Dortmund on January 28.

It is more likely that the Italian will be straight back into the starting XI, whereas Piotr Zielinski is expected to keep hold of the midfield reins to start this weekend’s big match.

Inter have been far the most consistent team in Serie A this season, but they have yet to beat any direct rival, which feels like the final step missing to claim the Scudetto.

Inter have an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan after Serie A Round 24, but the Rossoneri have a game in hand to be played against Como at San Siro on February 18.

Cristian Chivu’s side have been the more consistent team this season as they hardly dropped points against teams in the bottom half of the table, a reliability that bettors following the trend with a fanduel promo code have been quick to take advantage of.

Inter, however, have yet to win a game against either Juventus, Milan or Napoli and that is an issue that has been ongoing for some time as the Nerazzurri faced the same problematic under Chivu’s predecessor Simone Inzaghi.

Inter have not won any of their last 14 Serie A meetings against Milan, Juve or Napoli and they’ll be hoping to reverse this trend in the second part of the campaign.

Inter have the best attack in the league with 57 goals scored in 24 matches. The Nerazzurri just beat Sassuolo 5-0 away with a dominant performance at the Mapei Stadium.

“This team seems more mature now, of how to accept and adapt in certain moments of the game,” Chivu said at full-time.

“We’ve understood the moment that we’re in, we suffered from their intensity and once they got hold of the ball, they went straight at the game. We struck at the right time with that corner, then our solidity became an important factor for how we went about the game.

“We can’t forget where we’ve come from. We can’t be afraid of anything, but we have to be aware that we can still improve. There’s no such thing as perfection.

“It isn’t easy because there’s still a long way to go in the league and these are important phases of the season. We’re halfway through the marathon, we have to keep our maturity and be competitive.”

Inter are still running for three titles this season, having qualified for the Coppa Italia semifinals and the Champions League play-off, where they’ll meet Bodo/Glimt.

Despite their impressive results in recent weeks, Chivu remained cautious when asked about the Nerazzurri’s chances to win the Scudetto in 2025-26.

“Zero for me. There are fourteen games left to play. Theory’s still work to be done,” he replied.

Inter last won the domestic title in 2023-24, collecting 94 points under Inzaghi and lifting the 20th Scudetto in the club’s history.

During Inzaghi’s tenure, Inter also reached two Champions League Finals but lost to Manchester City and PSG, in 2023 and 2025, respectively.

Twente’s technical director Erik ten Hag says the ‘door is open’ for ex-Torino defender Perr Schuurs: ‘I only hope he can recover in the best way for himself and his family.’

Dutch defender Schuurs recently terminated his contract with Torino, having made no appearances for the Granata in over two years.

Schuurs’ unfortunate Torino spell

The 26-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture on October 21, 2023 and underwent surgery twice since.

Schuurs had joined Torino from Ajax in 2022 and made 43 appearances with the Granata before his serious injury.

Before joining Roma, Schuurs had made 92 appearances under Ten Hag at Ajax and the former Manchester United coach, now the technical director for Dutch side Twente, would love to reunite with his ex-defender.

Ten Hag eager to ‘help’ Schuurs

“If I have a chance to help him, I’ll surely do it. The door at Twente is always open for him, but we must first consider his shape when he returns,” Ten Hag told De Telegraaf.

“He might be a very important resource in a club like ours, but currently, I only hope he can recover in the best way for himself and his family. He deserves it. The rest will come afterwards.”

Schuurs was called up for the Netherlands’ Nations League games against Poland and Italy in September 2020 but spent both matches on the bench, failing to make his debut with his national team.

The Dutchman played 39 Serie A games with Torino, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

Arne Slot is ‘aware’ that the lack of Champions League football in 2026-27 will limit Liverpool’s spending next summer: ‘When I arrived after a Europa League season, we could only sign Federico Chiesa.’

Liverpool sit 6th in the Premier League table, five points below a Champions League spot. Missing out on qualification for Europe’s elite competition would naturally impact their spending next summer.

Slot: Liverpool ‘could only sign Chiesa’ after Europa League campaign

“When I arrived here, we could only sign Federico Chiesa and that was after a Europa League season,” Slot said at a press conference on Tuesday.

“So, that does have an enormous impact on the way this club is run, that is clear. So, we are completely aware and I am completely aware of that.

“If we don’t have Champions League football it has definitely not been an acceptable season.”

Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus on the 2024 summer transfer window deadline day.

He has been struggling with playing time under Slot, especially in his first season at Anfield, when he collected just three goals and two assists in 15 appearances across all competitions.

Will Chiesa play for Italy again?

There have been slight improvements in 2025-26 as Chiesa has scored three times and assisted just as many times in 25 games for Liverpool.

Chiesa has not been part of the Italy national team since the 2024 Euros.

However, Azzurri coach Gennaro Gattuso has been eager to bring Chiesa back to the team for some time and recently met him for dinner in London, along with other Italy players.

Juventus winger Francisco Conceiçao is confident that it’s ‘just a matter of time’ before he starts scoring consistently and hopes to stay at the Allianz Stadium ‘for a long time.’

Juventus star Conceiçao released an interview with Sportmediaset ahead of some tricky fixtures for the Bianconeri who will meet Inter in the next Serie A match on Saturday and then Galatasaray in the Champions League knock-out play-off.

“We must do our job. We want to win and prove we are a great team,” Conceiçao said.

“We know Inter are in a very good moment, winning every game comfortably, but we have the quality to do well and win, and we’ll go there to do just that.

“We know the Champions League is the best competition in the world. It will be a very tough game, against a strong team with strong players, but the least we can do is to win and join the top clubs.”

Juventus have recently been eliminated from the Coppa Italia by Atalanta and were held to a 2-2 home draw by Lazio in Serie A, wasting many chances in both games.

Juventus ‘a bit nervous’ for lack of goals

“Many times, creating chances is the most difficult thing, but I’ve lacked the goals that could have helped the team, which is the most important thing,” Conceiçao noted.

“I think it’s just a matter of time if I continue like this.

“We want to win every game; it’s what we want to do. We must continue to win in Serie A to remain up there. I want to help the team as much as possible, with more goals and assists to reach our objectives,” the Portuguese winger continued.

“If we score first, the team feels more confident, but we are lacking it now, so we feel a bit nervous as we want to score to win. I think we create many chances, which is the hard part, but we must improve, score goals and improve.”

Conceiçao has only scored one goal and provided one assist in 18 appearances under Luciano Spalletti, who was appointed as the new Juventus coach at the end of October.

The Bianconeri have climbed the table and are currently in the top four, but Conceiçao sees ample room for improvement.

“I like the way we play and the way we want to win,” he said.

Conceiçao opens up about Juventus future

“The results speak for themselves; we’ve won more games, and we must continue to improve. We all know we have the potential to do much more, including myself.”

Conceiçao is in his second season at Juventus and hopes to remain in Turin long-term.

“Yes, obviously, for a long time, I want to win titles and do great things personally,” he concluded.

It’s now been over a month since Newcastle last won a Premier League match, and in that span, they’ve drawn against Wolves, the last-placed team in the Premier League, they were beaten at home by Aston Villa and Brentford, and battered away to out-of-form Liverpool. Manager Eddie Howe, however, feels he’s still the right man […]

The post Newcastle boss Eddie Howe believes he’s the right man for the job amid result crisis (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Newcastle boss Eddie Howe believes he’s the right man for the job amid result crisis (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

Searching for a much-welcomed Premier League boost on Wednesday night, Aston Villa will welcome Brighton to the Midlands in midweek. While Unai Emery’s men might have rightfully received a string of plaudits from across the continent this season, Villa have struggled to find any kind of domestic stability over the past few weeks and they […]

The post Aston Villa vs Brighton Bet Builder Tips – 11/1 Premier League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Aston Villa vs Brighton Bet Builder Tips – 11/1 Premier League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

Newcastle United are ready to sell Sandro Tonali in the summer of 2026 but only for €115 million, according to Fichajes. Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal are the three Premier League clubs that are keen on a deal for Tonali, with Real Madrid have also been linked with the Italy international midfielder. Fichajes reports: ‘Aware […]

The post Newcastle United want €115m for Sandro Tonali appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Newcastle United want €115m for Sandro Tonali appeared first on Soccer News.

Newcastle United will need to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in order to tempt Dusan Vlahovic to a move to St. James’ Park in the summer of 2026, according to Football Insider. Vlahovic is out of contract at Juventus at the end of the season and has yet to agree to put pen to […]

The post Newcastle need Champions League football to sign Dusan Vlahovic appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Newcastle need Champions League football to sign Dusan Vlahovic appeared first on Soccer News.

Verdict: Draw Best odds: 14/5 Bookmaker: ZetBet Two Premier League sides seeking an immediate return to winning ways collide at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday evening, as unbeaten‑at‑home Sunderland welcome reigning champions Liverpool. The pair meet just over two months after their 1‑1 draw at Anfield, where Nordi Mukiele’s late own goal salvaged a […]

The post Prediction: Sunderland vs Liverpool appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: Sunderland vs Liverpool appeared first on Soccer News.

Real Madrid are interested in signing Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2026, according to Fichajes. The Argentina international central defender is ready to quit last season’s Europa League winners, and Madrid are keen on bringing him to Estadio Bernabeu. Madrid want to sign a new centre-back this summer, and with `Romero […]

The post Real Madrid target Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Real Madrid target Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero appeared first on Soccer News.

Barcelona eased past Mallorca on Saturday, with Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal and Marc Bernal on target. Yamal’s goal was truly superb. A rocket of a goal from our starboy 🚀💎#BarçaMallorca | #LaLigaHighlights pic.twitter.com/4ZjImCzO4N — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 10, 2026

The post Lamine Yamal fires superb goal as Barcelona smash Mallorca (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Lamine Yamal fires superb goal as Barcelona smash Mallorca (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

Newcastle United are ready to sell Sandro Tonali in the summer of 2026 but only for €115 million, according to Fichajes. Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal are the three Premier League clubs that are keen on a deal for Tonali, with Real Madrid have also been linked with the Italy international midfielder. Fichajes reports: ‘Aware […]

The post Newcastle United want €115m for Sandro Tonali appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Newcastle United want €115m for Sandro Tonali appeared first on Soccer News.

Real Madrid are interested in signing Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2026, according to Fichajes. The Argentina international central defender is ready to quit last season’s Europa League winners, and Madrid are keen on bringing him to Estadio Bernabeu. Madrid want to sign a new centre-back this summer, and with `Romero […]

The post Real Madrid target Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Real Madrid target Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero appeared first on Soccer News.

Robert Lewandowski has rediscovered his best scoring form, once again becoming a key figure in Barcelona’s recent matches. Despite this, the Polish striker is expected to leave as a free agent at the end of the season. As a result, Hansi Flick could receive a proven replacement up front, with the club emerging as frontrunners to secure the signing of a Serie A star ahead of the 2026–27 season.

In an interview with Tuttosport, Serbia’s fitness coach, Dusan Illic, suggested a likely destination for the striker after leaving Juventus: “He’s going to Barça. That’s what I think. Before going to Juventus, he had the chance to play in Spain because he had an offer from Atlético, but he chose to stay in Italy. Now it’s different.” Although Illic’s statement was only a prediction, it might indicate Dusan Vlahovic‘s actual intentions as rumors of meetings have surfaced.

As rumors surrounding his potential move to Barcelona continue to grow, Dušan Vlahović appears far from having his future decided. While the Serbian striker is highly regarded by the Spanish side, his high wage demands significantly complicate a possible move, reports Marca journalist Diego Pico. Additionally, he has other options on the table, including growing interest from AC Milan, meaning he is in no rush to finalize his future.

Not only does Dušan Vlahović have several offers on the table, but Barcelona also have other options in attack. With Robert Lewandowski’s potential departure, the club have set their sights on Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez as their top priority, reports Diario Sport. While a transfer could exceed €100 million, the Blaugranas could decide to pursue his signing if they manage to comply with LaLiga’s 1:1 rule in the near future.

Dusan Vlahovic’s recent performances raise concerns

Dušan Vlahović was once considered one of the most promising players in the world a few years ago. After scoring more than 20 goals in each of his final two seasons with Fiorentina, the Serbian striker completed an €83.5 million move to Juventus, who were looking for a natural goalscorer following Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure. Despite the high expectations, his performances disappointed many fans, raising doubts about whether he can rediscover his best form.

In his first full season with the Bianconeri, Vlahović scored just 14 goals in 42 matches, disappointing the fanbase. Far from improving his output, the Serbian striker only managed to reach 18 goals in his best season, falling short of replicating his goalscoring form at Fiorentina. Moreover, he has dealt with a series of injuries at Juventus that have prevented him from maintaining physical continuity.

Although Dusan has maintained an average of more than 15 goals per season at Juventus, Ferran Torres’ impressive performance could jeopardize his arrival at Barcelona. Unlike the Serbian, the Spaniard is enjoying his best season with the team, scoring 16 goals in 31 games. For this reason, betting on a high salary for Vlahovic may not be the Blaugranas’ best bet, forcing him to lower his expectations if he wants to sign for the Spanish side.

Alex Jimenez feared he’d get limited playing time at Milan, so he joined Bournemouth last summer and feels Como star Nico Paz is ‘ready’ to return to Real Madrid.

Spanish full-back Jimenez has recently completed a permanent move to Bournemouth, just six months after joining the Premier League side on loan from Milan.

The 20-year-old has scored one goal and provided one assist in 23 appearances across all competitions this season and is happy with his life on and off the pitch in England.

“Life is much calmer than in Milan or Madrid, and I think that’s helping me stay even more focused on football,” he told Mundo Deportivo.

“My family is living with me, and I have a very peaceful daily life.

“In Italy, [football] it’s a bit slower because football there is much more tactical than in the Premier League. Here it’s much more physical, back and forth, and you have to be very well prepared physically. Given my characteristics, I feel more comfortable, and the Premier League suits me better.”

Jimenez went on to explain why he decided to leave Milan last summer, after making 34 appearances with the Rossoneri.

Jimenez on why he left Milan for Bournemouth

“I think at Milan I wasn’t going to get the minutes I wanted this season, and this opportunity came up,” he said.

“I saw it as a chance, and I think I’m making the most of it.

“I really valued that the coach was Spanish [Andoni Iraola], considering he could help me integrate into the team,” Jimenez continued.

“In the end, changing language and country makes a difference. Also, I’ve always liked watching Premier League matches, and it seemed like a fun team based on what I saw last season.”

During his time at Milan, however, Jimenez had the chance to play alongside one of his role models, Theo Hernandez.

“I’ve always had Dani Carvajal as a reference because I spent many years at Madrid,” said the 20-year-old.

“Also, Alexander-Arnold, Davies and Theo Hernandez, whom I was lucky enough to play alongside at Milan.”

Nico Paz ‘ready’ for Real Madrid return

Lastly, Jimenez argued that Como star Nico Paz has done enough in Serie A this season to justify a return to Real Madrid next summer.

The Merengues have an option to re-sign the Argentine in 2026 and 2027.

“Yes, he’s ready. He already did very well last season, and in the current campaign, he’s made a further step forward,” Jimenez said.

“I’ve always liked him, and I’d be very happy if he eventually returns to Real Madrid.”

Only nine more La Liga appearances separate Juventus loanee Nico Gonzalez from a permanent move to Atletico Madrid.

Argentina international Nico Gonzalez is edging closer to joining Atletico Madrid on a permanent deal.

When will Nico Gonzalez join Atletico Madrid permanently?

The 27-year-old moved to the Wanda Metropolitano last summer on a €1m loan deal with an option to buy for 32m.

As reported by Calciomercato.com, Atletico’s option to buy becomes mandatory if Nico makes at least 60% appearances in La Liga, for 45 minutes each.

Nico has already played at least 45 minutes in 12 La Liga matches, so he has nine more to complete before joining the Colchoneros permanently.

Juventus’ changes in attack

Overall, Nico Gonzalez has scored one goal in 25 appearances with Atletico Madrid this season.

Nico Gonzalez only spent one season at Juventus, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 40 appearances during the 2024-25 campaign.

Juventus signed Edon Zhegrova and Lois Openda as attacking reinforcements on deadline day last summer and welcomed Jeremie Boga from OGC Nice in the January transfer window.

Referee chiefs reportedly agreed that the decision to deny a penalty kick to Juventus in their latest Serie A match against Lazio was correct.

La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Calciomercato.com) reports that AIA chiefs considered Marco Guida’s decision not to award a penalty to Juventus against Lazio on Sunday to be correct.

Juventus rightly denied a penalty vs. Lazio, according to referee chiefs

The Biancocelesti defender Mario Gila appeared to foul Juventus’ Juan Cabal with a sliding tackle inside the box.

Guida did not give a penalty, and he was not urged to the pitchside monitor to spot any potential error.

According to referee chiefs, the decisions were correct given the Lazio defender’s “intention to withdraw.”

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti complained about the decision at full-time, arguing that his side had been denied a clear penalty.

Spalletti’s remarks were shared by DAZN pundit Luca Marelli, who claimed Lazio should have been punished due to Gila’s negligence in his tackle.

Juventus sit fourth in the Serie A table, level on 46 points with 5th-placed Roma.

AC Milan are already planning for a significant overhaul of their attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window, and Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has emerged as a serious candidate.

According to reports from Tuttosport, the Rossoneri are closely monitoring the Brazilian’s situation in north London as they prepare for potential changes to their frontline.

Milan’s interest is closely linked to uncertainty surrounding Santiago Giménez.

While the Mexico international has shown flashes of quality since arriving in Serie A, there is a growing belief within the club that he could be moved on after the FIFA World Cup if the right offer arrives.

That possibility has pushed Milan’s recruitment team to explore experienced, versatile forwards capable of leading the line.

Gabriel Jesus going through a frustrating spell at Arsenal

At Arsenal, Gabriel Jesus has found opportunities increasingly hard to come by.

The 28-year-old has made only two Premier League starts this season, largely due to fierce competition in Mikel Arteta’s attacking setup.

The arrivals and form of Viktor Gyökeres and Kai Havertz have limited Jesus’ minutes, leaving him on the fringes despite his reputation and experience.

While Arteta continues to value Jesus’ work rate, Arsenal’s evolution toward a more physically dominant and direct attacking profile has not always played to the Brazilian’s strengths.

With the club pushing to compete consistently for major honours, difficult decisions are expected in the summer, and Jesus’ future could come under scrutiny.

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Milan see Jesus as an ideal fit for their team

From Milan’s perspective, Jesus offers a combination of pedigree and adaptability.

A proven performer in both the Premier League and Champions League, he brings experience, movement, and creativity, qualities that could complement Milan’s younger attacking talents.

His ability to operate across the front line is seen as a major asset, particularly in Serie A, where tactical flexibility is often decisive.

However, the Rossoneri are also keeping alternative options open.

Moise Kean of Fiorentina is understood to be another name under consideration, viewed as a younger and potentially a bargain solution should a deal for Jesus prove too complex.

Report: Arsenal hold advantage in race to sign experienced Bundesliga midfielder

The post Euro giants line up move for Arsenal star amid attacking reshuffle at the club appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City are quietly assessing their options ahead of the summer transfer window, and one emerging name on their shortlist is Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest.

According to TEAMtalk, the Premier League giants are considering a move for the 23-year-old midfielder, viewing him as a potential long-term investment rather than an immediate solution.

However, City’s interest may depend heavily on whether Pep Guardiola remains in charge at the Etihad Stadium beyond the current season.

Guardiola’s future has become a recurring talking point, and any decision on major recruitment is expected to align closely with clarity over the club’s managerial direction.

Why Man City are targeting Elliot Anderson

Anderson’s development at Forest has been one of the success stories of the Premier League season.

Since arriving at the City Ground, he has grown into a reliable and dynamic presence in midfield, admired for his work rate, and ability to operate in multiple roles.

He is comfortable playing further up the pitch as well as while shielding the back four and Man City have been impressed with his versatility.

City see Anderson as a player who could be moulded over time into a key squad member, someone capable of learning the positional discipline and technical demands required in Guardiola’s system.

His age and Premier League experience make him particularly attractive compared to other alternatives who may need a longer adaptation period.

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Forest to demand a premium fee for the midfielder

Any potential deal, however, would come at a premium. Nottingham Forest are under no pressure to sell and are believed to value Anderson in the region of £80 million to £100 million.

That figure reflects both his importance to their project and the current market inflation for young, homegrown midfielders with top-flight experience.

Forest’s stance is strengthened by Anderson’s contract situation, which places them firmly in control of negotiations.

Unless a club meets their valuation, they are expected to resist approaches and continue building around the midfielder.

Man City are not alone in tracking Anderson’s progress. Manchester United have also been monitoring the situation as they plan a significant midfield overhaul of their own.

Report: Man City make £35m offer for English midfielder but fall short of £40m asking price 

The post Report: Man City prepare bid for 23-year-old wanted by Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Paul Scholes has praised Tottenham defender Cristian Romero and said that he would love to see him at Manchester United.

Recently, the centre-back was sent off in Tottenham’s defeat against Man United at Old Trafford.
Despite his sending off, Romerto is having a brilliant season for Spurs even though his team is struggling.

The North London club are currently 15th in the Premier League and closer to the reelgation zone than they are to the Champions League spots.

Despite that, Scholes has praised Romero and his character and suggested his former club Man United to take a chance on him.

One of the reasons behind Scholes saying that is because Romero showed his discontent towards the Tottenham board recently when Spurs had only 13 fit players against Manchester City. It was a shot at the club’s January transfer business.

Paul Scholes is a fan of the Tottenham defender

‘Do you know what? I love him,’ Scholes said on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast.

‘I love watching him play football.

‘He’s p*****d off at Spurs, isn’t he? He doesn’t want to be there. He’s having a go at the crowd, he’s having a go at the board, I think his head has checked out a little bit.

‘But I would love him at Manchester United. I just love his character.’

Romero is an aggressive defenders who gives his all every time he is on the pitch.

Sometimes he over does it and that results in disciplinary action against him, like it happened at Old Trafford.

However, there is no doubt about his quality. He is a World Cup winner with Argentina and has proven himself consistently.

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Should Man United sign Cristian Romero?

There is a reason why clubs like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are closely monitoring him and have been linked with a move for him.

Man United, though, have more than enough depth in the centre-back back department.

They have the likes of Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Ayden Heaven and others in that position.

Targeting someone like Romero only makes sense if someones leaves the club.

Manager set to reject Man United as he believes they are not “the right project” 

The post ‘I just love his character’ – Paul Scholes wants Man United to sign rival defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Torino defender Giacomo Ferri feels that Alessandro Buongiorno and Giorgio Scalvini are the best Italian centre-backs: ‘Alessandro Bastoni has other qualities.’

Former Torino star Ferri defended Napoli centre-back Buongiorno after the Italy international made clear errors in an eventual 3-2 win over Genoa on Saturday.

‘Buongiorno and Scalvini the best centre-backs in Italy’

“I think there are many reasons why he’ll bounce back,” Ferri told Radio TuttoNapoli via Calciomercato.com.

“He’s young, he still has room for improvement and has a coach who, for me, is able to make everyone improve. Buongiorno has indeed made errors in recent times, but I think physical issues played a part in this. He hasn’t been 100% fit.

“For me, Scalvini and Buongiorno are the best Italian centre-backs right now,” Ferri continued.

“They might be struggling at times, but they have room for improvement and coaches who can make them develop.”

Ferri even prefers Buongiorno over Inter’s Bastoni.

“As a pure centre-back, Buongiorno is superior,” he claimed.

“Bastoni has other qualities, especially when he attacks. He’s perfect as a left defender in a three-man defence. I’m not saying he’s a bad defender, quite the opposite, but as a pure centre-back, Buongiorno is superior.”

Juventus director Marco Ottolini reveals the Bianconeri still hope to extend Dusan Vlahovic’s contract, but the Serbia national team fitness coach predicts the striker will join Barcelona.

Juventus striker Vlahovic has less than six months left in his contract at the Allianz Stadium.

Talks between the two parties have been stalling for several months, given that Vlahovic is reportedly unwilling to cut his €12m salary.

Juventus set to continue Vlahovic contract talks

Vlahovic has been unavailable since December and is expected to return to action next month.

Despite his injury and uncertain future at Juventus, Vlahovic still seems quite involved in the team, as his celebration of Pierre Kalulu’s late equaliser against Lazio suggested.

“It’s something we have considered too,” Juventus sporting director Marco Ottolini told Sky Sport Italia.

“Vlahovic will be available again in a few weeks, and we’ll surely talk to him. Negotiations will continue, so it’s not a completely closed matter.”

Vlahovic, however, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Milan, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

Dusan Ilic, the fitness coach of the Serbian national predicted that the Juventus forward will move to Spain in the summer.

“For me, he’ll go to Barcelona,” Ilic told Tuttosport.

“Before joining Juventus, he had held talks with Atletico Madrid, but then picked the Bianconeri. It was impossible to refuse that offer.”

Vlahovic underwent surgery in December due to a high-grade adductor injury.

“The injury hit a very specific part that takes longer to heal,” continued Ilic.

“Naturally, the recovery is longer, but given the doctors and the specialists he has at his disposal, I can say we’ll see him return soon.”

Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly interested in Milan star Christian Pulisic, who hasn’t yet received an offer to extend his contract at San Siro.

Premier League giants Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in Pulisic, according to TMW.

Milan prepare contract extension offer for Pulisic

Pulisic’s contract with the Rossoneri expires in June 2027, even if the agreement includes an option to extend for a further campaign.

According to the report, Pulisic thought he’d receive an offer in the past months, but the club have never made a formal proposal.

The Rossoneri, however, are reportedly determined to send their offer shortly as they are willing to continue with the USMNT international for the coming years.

Milan have recently confirmed Mike Maignan’s contract extension, but negotiations with the Frenchman had a higher priority as the goalkeeper only had six months left in his previous deal.

Pulisic began the season in excellent form, but recent physical setbacks have slowed his momentum. The American has yet to score in 2026 and was forced to miss the latest Serie A match against Bologna because of bursitis.

The 27-year-old has scored ten goals and provided two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions.

Antonio Conte’s Napoli and Cesc Fabregas’ Como will be looking to earn a place in the Coppa Italia semifinals tonight, reuniting for the fourth time on the sidelines after winning titles with Chelsea.

Napoli and Como meet at the Stadio Maradona tonight in a Coppa Italia quarter-final showdown.

Napoli have already been eliminated from the Champions League, so they only have Serie A and Coppa Italia left to play for, even if they sit third in the league standings, and the gap from leaders Inter is now nine points.

Como, on the other hand, sit 6th in Serie A, just five points below a ChampionsLeague spot, with a game in hand.

Fabregas’ side, in fact, didn’t play this past weekend as their away game against Milan at San Siro was postponed due to the stadium being occupied by the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

Como’s last competitive match was on February 1, while Napoli beat Genoa 3-2 on Saturday, but saw their midfielder, Scott McTominay, suffer a minor injury. The Scotland international is part of a big group of Napoli players unavailable for tonight’s Coppa Italia fixture.

The winner will go on to face Inter in the semifinals.

Fabregas and Conte already met three times as coaches. Conte won the first match in October 2024, but the Spaniard is unbeaten in the last two, having grabbed a home 2-1 win in February 2025 and an away 0-0 draw at the Maradona this past November.

Fabregas played under Conte at Chelsea, scoring ten goals and providing 22 assists in 86 appearances between 2016 and 2018.

During their time at Stamford Bridge, Conte and Fabregas won a Premier League title (2016-17) and an FA Cup (2017-18).

Doneyll Malen earned praise from Italian media after scoring a brace in Roma’s 2-0 win over Cagliari: ‘explosive like dynamite,’ wrote Corriere dello Sport.

Malen has had a tremendous impact at Roma, scoring three goals in his opening four Serie A appearances. His last two, scored in a home game against Cagliari on Monday, allowed the Giallorossi to catch Juventus in the top four.

#ASRoma #RomaCagliari pic.twitter.com/YO1sM5L900

— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) February 10, 2026

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini was clearly delighted with the Dutchman’s performance, and the coach’s words of praise were echoed by Italian newspapers.

Malen resulted as the obvious Man of the Match in all Italian sports papers.

He was rated 8/10 by Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta.

Italian media react to Malen’s brace in Roma 2-0 Cagliari

“Explosive like dynamite, delicate as a caress,” wrote Corriere dello Sport.

“The first goal, beautiful, was a tribute to his qualities as a mobile centre-forward. The second, just as valuable, showed a boundless hunger. Side note: when he accelerated and hit top gear, he became uncatachable.”

Gazzetta added: “Worthy of a manual of attacking football for how he made his runs, called for the pass and finished. Extraordinary. The first goal was a gem, on the second, he was flawless.”

Malen joined Roma from Aston Villa on an initial loan deal with an option to buy in the January transfer window.

Roma’s option to buy for €25m becomes mandatory if they qualify for the Champions League or the Conference League this season.

Celik Malen #ASRoma #RomaCagliari pic.twitter.com/0Gdfw9Qsvp

— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) February 10, 2026

Denied a training retreat this month, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso has taken his World Cup preparations on the road, visiting players in Saudi Arabia, London and Milan ahead of March’s play-off.

Italy coach Gattuso has been visiting the players he is considering calling up for March’s World Cup play-offs.

Italy’s World Cup play-off opponent

The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland in Bergamo in the semis on March 26, and if they progress, they’ll visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Final.

The congested fixture list has made it impossible for the FIGC and Lega Serie A to find a two-day window for the Azzurri to train at Coverciano this month. This means Gattuso will reunite with his players four months after their last competitive match, lost 4-1 at home against Norway in November.

Therefore, Gattuso has opted to meet his players face to face, travelling around the world and catching up with them over dinner.

According to Gazzetta, Gattuso has already met with Mateo Retegui in Saudi Arabia, Marco Verratti in Qatar and many Italian players in the Premier League: Riccardo Calafiori, Federico Chiesa, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Michael Kayode, Nicolò Savona, Sandro Tonali, Destiny Udogie and Guglielmo Vicario.

Gazzetta highlights that Gattuso has meticulously planned for these meetings, ensuring they would not disrupt the clubs’ weekly work or compromise the players’ rest.

Last night, he had dinner in Milan with Juventus, Inter, Milan, Bologna and Fiorentina players who could be part of the Azzurri team next month.

Within Friday, depending on the commitments of each team, he’ll go to Bergamo, Rome and Naples to meet the others.

Next Monday, he’ll sit down with Cagliari’s Elia Caprile and Marco Palestra after attending the match between the Rossoblu and Lecce.

During his interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan striker Christopher Nkunku praised many of his Rossoneri teammates and said France could compete to win the World Cup with three different teams.

Milan striker Nkunku has been in excellent form in recent weeks, scoring one Serie A goal every 63 minutes since the end of December.

Despite being linked with leaving the Rossoneri in the January window, Nkunku insisted that he never considered leaving the club last month.

During his interview with Gazzetta, Nkunku spoke highly of many of his Milan teammates, including his compatriots Adrien Rabiot and Mike Maignan.

Nkunku and Rabiot are Milan’s best scorers in 2026.

Nkunku: Rabiot ‘could play 90 minutes every day’

“Adrien always been like this; maybe he’s just more decisive now,” Nkunku said.

“Allegri wants him to play more in attack, while before he used to be more defensive. Adrien has a phenomenal shot, and he runs so much. I think he could play 90 minutes every day because he’s never tired. He’s at the peak of his career, between 29 and 31 years old. He has no limits; he always pushes on and off the pitch. He’s a beast.”

Maignan has recently extended his Milan contract and has been a crucial player for the Serie A giants this term. The French keeper saved penalty kicks against Inter and Roma, so Nkunku was asked whether he can score consistently from the spot in training, against his compatriot.

“I would say it’s 50-50, Mike has helped us earn points,” the striker replied.

“He has great leadership inside the dressing room. Everyone listens to him when he says something. He always speaks for the team’s good, as a true captain. We couldn’t tell him to stay, but now that he has extended his contract, we are calmer. It’s good for the club that he stays.”

Do the French players in the Milan team talk much about the upcoming World Cup?

“Not much, because now we are all focused on winning at Milan,” Nkunku said.

“The World Cup will be in three or four months, and if we give our best for the club, we’ll have more chances to be called up.”

The French forward sustained an injury just a few days before the start of the 2022 World Cup.

“It was sad; every footballer dreams of playing at the World Cup. Now I must work to make it happen,” Nkunku said.

“France are really strong. We could have three teams, and each would be competitive to win, because we have youth sectors that work well.”

Nkunku faced two final questions about other Milan stars, Rafael Leao and Luka Modric. Who is faster? Nkunku or Leao?

“Long distances, probably Rafa, but shorter distances, maybe myself,” Nkunku replied.

“Luka [Modric] is super, he has a unique quality and makes some fantastic long passes with the outside of his foot. If I even try, my hip goes out. It’s unbelievable that he’s 40. He could still play until 45 or 46.”

Milan striker Christopher Nkunku insists he didn’t consider leaving the Rossoneri in the January transfer window and feels his former PSG teammate, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, has not changed in his new advisor role.

• Read more – Nkunku: France have three teams to win World Cup, Rabiot ‘a beast’

Nkuku completed a permanent move to Milan from Chelsea last summer, but initially struggled to settle in at San Siro.

At the end of December, he scored a brace against Verona, and he’s gone on to score one goal every 63 minutes played in Serie A since.

“Honestly, it made me very happy, but my objective now is to be in good shape,” Nkunku told Gazzetta.

When Nkunku arrived in Milan last summer, he had taken part in Chelsea’s pre-season training, which affected him in the first part of the campaign.

“A lot, it’s like a journalist conducting an interview without preparing the questions. It was hard because I had never skipped a pre-season, and next summer I’ll do anything to not make it happen again,” he said.

“If you don’t have a pre-season, you don’t have those four or five friendlies to get in shape.”

Despite some difficult months at the start of the season, Nkunku never considered leaving the club.

Nkunku ‘never thought about leaving’ Milan

“I tried to remain calm because I knew my qualities and I knew I’d score. It was just a matter of time and shape,” he claimed.

“If you play in attack, you must score because it’s your job. I hope I still helped the team differently, but if you score or assist, it’s more evident. The most important thing is to win and do what Allegri says.

“I’ve never thought about leaving, that’s the point,” Nkunku continued.

“My agent never mentioned any offer, so those were just rumours to me. He knows me well; I’ve never asked him to look for something different or talk to other clubs, because I wanted to be ready for Milan.

“I think Milan are the biggest club in Italy and I’ve understood that the club wants to win titles, which is also my objective. I’ve had a chance to lift trophies everywhere, and I want to do the same here, at a club that was born to win.”

In mid-December, Max Allegri said Nkunku had to ‘smile more’, and the French striker tried to follow his coach’s advice.

“When the coach says something, you have to do it because he has a lot of experience,” said Nkunku.

“At that moment, I lived in my world, preparing to be ready. But it’s true, when you smile and see things positively, everything changes.

“Our target is to qualify for the Champions League, but we must focus on one game at a time. We also have a derby coming up, a special match.”

Nkunku played with Ibrahimovic at PSG, and now the ex-striker is an advisor for Gerry Cardinale’s Red Bird, who owns Milan.

“Now I see Ibrahimovic wearing a jacket; before, he used to wear football boots. For the rest, it’s not a big change,” Nkunku said.

“He still has his character and desire to win. I remember that once in training, I made a mistake that made my team, which also included Ibra, lose. He didn’t say anything at first, but on the day of the game, inside the dressing room, he told me: ‘We lost, never again.'”

January signing Giovane is expected to start his first game for Napoli against Cesc Fabregas’ Como in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals tonight.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Stadio Maradona.

The Partenopei are short of options in attack and midfield, with Scott McTominay, Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, David Neres, Matteo Politano and Billy Gilmour all injured.

Therefore, Eljif Elmas will start in central midfield alongside Stanislav Lobotka, while the attacking midfielders behind Rasmus Hojlund will be Giovane and Antonio Vergara, according to Sky Sport and Gazzetta.

Defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo is also injured, and Antonio Conte stated last week that the Italy international would be out of action for two months.

According to reports, Amir Rrahmani, Juan Jesus and Sam Beukema will start in central defence for the Partenopei.

Como are way more rested than Napoli as they didn’t play in Serie A this past weekend, making their last competitive outing on February 1.

Fabregas is expected to pick his ideal Como XI with Anastosis Douvikas and Nico Paz in attack. The only doubt for the Azzurri seems to be on the right wing with either Mergim Vojvoda or Jayden Addai starting.

The winner between Napoli and Como will meet Inter in the semi-finals.

Napoli vs. Como – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports 2 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide a live commentary via a live blog.

Napoli vs. Como – probable line-ups

Napoli (3-4-2-1): Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Juan Jesus; Mazzocchi, Lobotka, Elmas, Olivera; Giovane, Vergara; Hojlund.

Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Addai, Nico Paz, Baturina; Douvikas.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Nkunku exclusive

Milan, I love you

‘I’m here to win, I know how to do it. I’ve never thought about leaving; I only needed time. Allegri told me to smile; he was right.’

Inter, no wing-back in Europe is as decisive as Dimarco

Juve: McKennie at San Siro as a false nine, then the renewal.

Roma, Malen’s brace. Cagliari surrendered (2-0).

Napoli, Coppa Italia target: Fabregas with an attacking Como.

Corriere dello Sport

Juve limits

Derby d’Italia on Saturday

Chivu’s team scores a goal every 7.7 shots. Spalletti also pays for Vlahovic’s absence.

Inter’s attack: 12 goals more. Yildiz alone. David-Openda flop.

Lautaro, Thuram, Esposito and Bonny have scored 29 goals. Lucio has made the playing style take off, but his quartet has only managed 17. Cristiano: +9 from the appointment of the ex-CT.

Napoli, Conte launches Giovane

Fenucci: ‘Yes to VAR, but not this way.’

Magic Malen: Roma sit fourth

A brace in front of Totti. The Dutchman has scored three goals in four matches. Gasperini catches Juventus.

Tuttosport

Maratona once again empty ‘to defend Toro’

‘The Italian VAR helps cheating.’

Everyone against the referees: Juve among the most affected, Ravanelli complains.

The ex-striker: ‘Abroad, they use technology differently.’ Irritated by referees’ mistakes, the Bianconeri seek replies from ref chiefs. Meantime Spalletti pushes for McKennie’s renewal. Ilic, Serbia’s fitness coach: ‘Vlahovic he’s hungry for goals, he’ll join Barça.’

Double Malen, Roma celebrate and catch Juve

Napoli-Como for the semis, Inter at stake

Mason Greenwood’s resurgence in France has reignited interest from the Premier League, with reports suggesting two of England’s biggest clubs are now weighing up a bold summer move.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, both Liverpool and Tottenham have placed the Marseille forward firmly on their radar and would be prepared to meet a substantial asking price to secure his signature.

The report claims offers in the region of £78 million (€90m) could be considered, a figure that shows just how highly Greenwood is now rated after two prolific seasons in Ligue 1.

Any deal would also have financial implications for Manchester United, who negotiated a 50 per cent sell-on clause when Greenwood left Old Trafford, meaning the Red Devils would receive a significant windfall should Marseille agree to sell.

The young attacker has scored 22 goals for the French club this season along with eight assists.

Mason Greenwood has been a huge success in France

Greenwood remains a deeply polarising figure in English football, and a return to the Premier League would almost certainly provoke strong reactions among supporters.

That backdrop has contrasted sharply with his experience in France. Since joining Marseille in the summer of 2024, Greenwood has been embraced on sporting merit alone, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s best attackers.

After an impressive debut campaign, the 24-year-old has taken his game up another level this season, contributing to 30 goals across all competitions.

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Liverpool & Tottenham both want a prolific attacker

Liverpool’s interest is linked to the evolution of their squad under Arne Slot.

The Reds are looking to refresh their attacking options and believe Greenwood’s goal threat and positional flexibility could add a new dimension.

Internally, there is thought to be excitement about the potential of pairing him with Hugo Ekitike, forming a dynamic partnership capable of thriving in a high-tempo system.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are also in the market for a forward capable of changing games consistently.

Marseille are aware of the interest building across Europe and would only consider a move if their valuation is met.

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Real Madrid are already laying the groundwork for next season as they look to fine-tune a squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts once again.

According to AS, the Spanish giants have identified Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain as their primary midfield target, with teenage prospect Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar viewed as a secondary, developmental option.

Madrid’s recruitment strategy continues to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term planning.

With ambitions to mount a serious dual push in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, the club believe subtle but smart reinforcements could make the difference in decisive moments next season.

Why Vitinha appeals to Real Madrid

Vitinha’s name sits at the top of Madrid’s shortlist for good reason. At 27, the Portuguese international is entering his prime and has developed into a key figure at PSG, admired for his composure in possession, positional discipline, and leadership on the pitch.

Madrid’s coaching staff reportedly see him as a midfielder capable of controlling tempo in high-pressure matches, a quality they value highly in European knockout football.

However, prising him away from Paris will not be straightforward. Vitinha is under contract until 2029 and is said to be settled in the French capital, where he plays a central role in PSG’s midfield structure.

That combination of long-term security and sporting importance makes any potential deal complex, both financially and diplomatically.

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Kees Smit: One for the future

As an alternative, Madrid have also been monitoring Smit, one of the brightest young talents emerging from the Eredivisie.

At just 19, the AZ Alkmaar midfielder has impressed with his technical quality, intelligence, and maturity beyond his years.

While he is not yet considered a finished product, Madrid believe Smit could thrive in their development-focused environment if brought in early.

Madrid’s summer plans also include integrating players already within their system.

The return of Endrick and Nico Paz from their respective loan spells is expected to add depth and freshness to the squad, reinforcing the club’s belief in internal solutions alongside selective external signings.

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Sandro Tonali’s future is attracting attention ahead of the summer transfer window this year, with interest intensifying from both England and Italy.

According talkSPORT, Tonali would be receptive to a return to Serie A, a revelation that has added a new dimension to an already crowded race for his signature.

Tonali has become one of the most talked-about midfielders in the Premier League.

His leadership, tactical intelligence, and ability to control tempo have made him central to Newcastle’s project.

Despite his importance on Tyneside, speculation around his long-term future has refused to fade.

Man United and Arsenal are both interested in Tonali

Several of England’s biggest clubs are monitoring the situation closely.

Man United, Arsenal, and Manchester City have all been linked with the Italian international, each viewing him as a player capable of elevating their midfield options.

Man United, in particular, are expected to be aggressive in the market. With changes anticipated in their engine room, Tonali has been added to a shortlist of Premier League-proven midfielders that also includes Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, and Adam Wharton.

United’s plan to sign two midfielders this summer underlines the scale of their rebuild.

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Italian midfielder wants a return to Serie A

While the Premier League clubs offer financial power and global exposure, the emotional pull of Italy remains strong.

Juventus are understood to be long-term admirers, and Tonali’s openness to returning to Serie A has given them encouragement.

A move back to Italy would see the midfielder return to a familiar footballing culture, where his skill set is perfectly suited to the tactical demands of the league.

Newcastle are under no pressure to sell. Tonali is contracted long term, and the club reportedly value him between £80 million and £100 million.

Manager set to reject Man United as he believes they are not “the right project”

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Tottenham are preparing to draw a line under Randal Kolo Muani’s brief and largely underwhelming stint in north London, with no plans in place to turn his current loan into a permanent move.

According to TEAMtalk, Spurs have already decided that the France international will return to Paris Saint-Germain when the season concludes.

Kolo Muani arrived at Tottenham with expectations of adding pace, movement, and goal threat to the attack during the 2025-26 campaign.

However, those hopes have not materialised in domestic competition.

The 26-year-old has managed just three goals in all competitions and is still waiting to register his first goal or assist in the Premier League despite making 17 league appearances.

Kolo Muani has struggled to settle at Tottenham

From the player’s perspective, there has long been a sense that his time at Spurs was unlikely to develop into anything more than a short-term arrangement.

Kolo Muani is believed to have felt early on that he did not have a clear long-term role in the club’s plans, and Tottenham’s handling of his situation has done little to shift that belief.

Spurs were theoretically open to allowing him to leave during the January transfer window if a suitable opportunity arose, but no concrete offers emerged.

That left the forward in limbo, continuing to feature sporadically without ever truly establishing momentum or confidence in the league.

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Feb 10 2026, 14:40

Report: Man City prepare bid for 23-year-old wanted by Man United

Feb 10 2026, 14:12

‘I just love his character’ – Paul Scholes wants Man United to sign rival defender

Feb 10 2026, 13:56

French attacker has been impressive in Europe

Interestingly, Kolo Muani’s performances in Europe have told a slightly different story.

In the UEFA Champions League, he has looked more comfortable, contributing three goals and two assists.

Those displays have highlighted the qualities that once made him one of Europe’s most coveted forwards, intelligent movement, sharp pressing, and composure in high-tempo matches.

However, Spurs’ priority has always been Premier League output, and it is there where Kolo Muani has failed to convince.

The physical demands, defensive structures, and lack of consistent service have all played a part, but ultimately Tottenham have concluded that the fit is not right.

Kolo Muani’s return to PSG now looks inevitable, though his long-term future in Paris is far from certain.

‘World-class’ manager makes major Tottenham admission as Thomas Frank faces potential sacking 

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Raphinha raised concerns at FC Barcelona last week after suffering an injury that kept him sidelined for the club’s last two matches. With the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atlético Madrid less than a week away, the Brazilian winger provided an update on his fitness and addressed whether he expects to be available for the game.

Concern spread among supporters when Barcelona released a statement confirming Raphinha had suffered an overload in the adductor muscle of his right leg. With an initial recovery timeline of one week, the Brazilian missed the match against Albacete as well as the La Liga clash with RCD Mallorca, and with Atlético looming, his availability has become a major talking point.

After being named Best Sportsman of the Year at the Toresky Awards, organized by Cadena SER, Raphinha spoke with reporters and was asked directly about his injury status: “I’m feeling better, we’re taking it day by day. We’ll see if I’m ready for Thursday, but we’re waiting. There are options, but we already know how injuries go. I miss being with the team.”

Despite acknowledging progress in his recovery, the forward stopped short of confirming his availability for the high-stakes matchup against Atlético Madrid. “I can’t lie, I’d love to say I can play on Thursday, but I’m cutting it a bit close,” Raphinha added, offering a more cautious assessment.

Barcelona will face Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals on Thursday, February 12, at the Estadio Metropolitano. With the return leg scheduled for March 3 at Camp Nou, having Raphinha available (the winger has scored 13 goals and added five assists in 22 appearances) could prove decisive and tilt the balance in Barcelona’s favor.

The Champions League or the World Cup?

While the 2025-26 season is in full swing, attention is already drifting toward what comes next, including the 2026 World Cup set to kick off in June. Brazil, led by Carlo Ancelotti and hoping for the return of Neymar, will enter the tournament with lofty expectations, and Raphinha is very much part of that picture as he continues to enjoy one of the best stretches of his career.

At the same time, the UEFA Champions League remains one of the few major trophies missing from his résumé, and when asked which title he would rather win, Raphinha refused to choose: “I can’t choose. Since I arrived at Barcelona, I’ve set out to win everything with this club. The Champions League is a personal goal, something I really want. Being able to win the World Cup with the Brazil national team is also something very special.“

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Julián Álvarez, with fresh reports suggesting the Blues are gaining momentum in talks with Atlético Madrid ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to ESPN Argentina, Chelsea are now “advancing” in negotiations and have moved in front of Arsenal in the race to land the Argentine striker.

Atlético only signed Álvarez in 2024, investing a reported £82 million to bring him in from Manchester City.

At the time, the move was viewed as a major statement, with Diego Simeone keen to build his attack around him.

However, the last few months have been difficult for the 26-year-old, whose form has dipped amid tactical adjustments and fierce competition for places.

Chelsea need a new striker to lead their attack

Chelsea’s interest is rooted in long-term planning. The club are actively reshaping their attacking department and see Álvarez as a forward capable of leading the line while also fitting into a fluid, high-intensity system.

His versatility, able to play as a central striker or slightly deeper, is considered a major asset, particularly for a side seeking greater cohesion and reliability in front of goal.

Sources suggest Chelsea are positioning themselves early to avoid a bidding war later in the window, aware that Arsenal remain keen and could re-enter the conversation decisively if the opportunity arises.

More Stories / Latest News

Euro giants line up move for Arsenal star amid attacking reshuffle at the club

Feb 10 2026, 14:40

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Feb 10 2026, 14:12

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Blues face intense competition for Álvarez

Beyond the Premier League, Barcelona have long admired Álvarez.

However, ongoing financial constraints at Camp Nou make a move difficult, pushing the player’s likely destination back toward England.

That reality has strengthened Chelsea’s belief that a Premier League return is the most realistic outcome if Atlético decide to listen to offers.

Importantly, Atlético are under no pressure to sell. Recent investment has eased previous financial concerns, leaving the club free to demand a premium fee if they do open the door to negotiations.

Any deal, therefore, would require a substantial outlay, potentially even exceeding the amount Atlético paid.

From France: Tottenham and Chelsea queue up for goal machine available on a bargain

The post Chelsea ‘advancing’ in talks to sign striker who is also being chased by rivals Arsenal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool’s long-term planning at centre-back continues to evolve, and a familiar name has re-emerged as a potential solution.

According to Football Insider, the Reds are seriously considering a future move to bring Jarell Quansah back to Anfield from Bayer Leverkusen, as part of a wider defensive succession strategy.

Quansah left Liverpool in the summer of 2025 in a deal worth around £35 million, a move that formed part of a major squad overhaul under manager Arne Slot.

While the decision to sell the academy graduate raised eyebrows at the time, Liverpool were careful to protect their long-term interests by inserting a buy-back clause into the agreement.

That clause, which becomes active in 2027, allows the Merseyside club to re-sign Quansah for a pre-agreed fee should they choose to do so.

Reason behind Liverpool interest in Quansah

Liverpool’s renewed interest is closely linked to uncertainty surrounding their current defensive options.

Ibrahima Konaté is approaching the final stages of his contract and could leave on a free transfer at the end of the season if no extension is agreed.

At the same time, captain Virgil van Dijk is nearing his mid-30s, prompting natural questions about workload management and long-term succession.

The club have already moved to address part of that issue by securing Jérémy Jacquet from Stade Rennais, but internal discussions suggest Liverpool may want to add another centre-half with Premier League experience and familiarity with the club’s demands.

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Feb 10 2026, 14:40

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Quansah has been a crucial figure for Leverkusen

Since joining Leverkusen, Quansah has continued to grow, gaining valuable experience in the Bundesliga and European competition.

His composure in possession, aerial strength, and improving positional awareness have not gone unnoticed by Liverpool’s recruitment staff, who continue to track his progress closely.

That development has also been recognised at international level. The 23-year-old made his senior debut for England national football team last year, starting in a 2-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Albania, a milestone that further underlined his upward trajectory.

With Konaté’s future uncertain, Van Dijk approaching a veteran phase, and competition for elite centre-backs intensifying, the option to bring back a developed academy product is an attractive one for Liverpool.

Sources: Liverpool to target Premier League attacker “likened to Mbappé and Agüero” 

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Liverpool are keeping a close eye on one of the Premier League’s most exciting young attacking prospects, with Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi emerging as a potential summer target, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

The 19-year-old has enjoyed a breakout campaign in England, quickly adapting to the physical and tactical demands of the league while delivering goals, energy, and moments of genuine quality in the final third.

Kroupi’s rise has not gone unnoticed beyond Anfield.

Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain are all understood to be monitoring his progress closely.

Scouts from Madrid and Chelsea have been regular visitors at Bournemouth matches this season, while PSG’s interest dates back several months, long before Kroupi fully announced himself on the Premier League stage.

The youngster is shining for Bournemouth

Bournemouth moved decisively to secure Kroupi’s signature in February 2025, paying around £10 million to bring him in from FC Lorient.

In doing so, they beat competition from West Ham United, Tottenham, and RB Leipzig, a deal that is now being widely praised as one of the shrewdest pieces of business of recent times.

Eli Kroupi has scored eight goals in the Premier League this season in 20 appearances for Bournemouth.

Since arriving on the south coast, Kroupi has shown maturity well beyond his age. Comfortable playing across the front line, he combines sharp movement with composure in front of goal and a willingness to work relentlessly off the ball.

The young attacker has been “likened to Mbappé and Agüero”, two of the best attackers to have played the game in the last decade.

More Stories / Latest News

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Feb 10 2026, 14:40

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Feb 10 2026, 14:12

‘I just love his character’ – Paul Scholes wants Man United to sign rival defender

Feb 10 2026, 13:56

Liverpool want to beat competition for Eli Kroupi

For Liverpool, the appeal is obvious. Under Arne Slot, the club are continuing to invest in high-ceiling young players who can be developed into elite performers.

Kroupi’s profile, explosive, technically gifted, and still learning, matches perfectly with that strategy.
Internally, he is viewed as a forward who could grow into a long-term attacking option rather than an instant starter.

Although Kroupi is contracted until 2030, Bournemouth are realistic about the level of interest building around him.

Club insiders believe he could become the Cherries’ first-ever £70-80 million sale, a figure driven not only by his talent but also by the scarcity of young, proven attackers in today’s market.

Liverpool’s interest places them among an elite group of suitors, but prising him away from Bournemouth will not be easy.

Concern for Liverpool as defender now ruled out for the rest of the season

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Christian Pulisic’s 2025-26 season has taken a significant turn in recent days, not only due to a dip in form but also because of the fitness issues he has been dealing with in recent weeks. With the club focused on getting one of its key players back to full strength ahead of the next Serie A match against Pisa, AC Milan have made an important decision regarding the USMNT star’s recovery.

Prior to last week’s match against Bologna, head coach Massimiliano Allegri addressed Pulisic’s condition, which ultimately sidelined him from the matchday squad for the first time since the game against Lazio in November. “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” the Italian coach admitted in his pre-match press conference, adding that the club hoped to get him “back on track in the coming days.“

With the match against Como postponed, Milan, and Pulisic in particular, were given an additional week of rest before their next Serie A fixture. Taking advantage of the brief pause in the schedule, the Rossoneri made a key decision to better assess the condition of one of their most influential players.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Christian Pulisic has been placed on an individualized training program with the aim of having him available for the upcoming league match. While the rest of the Milan squad returned to training on Monday, Pulisic, along with Alexis Saelemaekers, who is also nursing an injury, trained separately on Sunday and then completed a double training session on Monday.

Milan’s next match is scheduled for Friday, February 13, when they travel to face Pisa on Matchday 25 of the 2025-26 Serie A season. The Rossoneri currently sit second in the table with 50 points, while league leaders Inter Milan, who have played one additional game, hold 58. The coaching staff’s objective is to reintegrate both Pulisic and Saelemaekers into full team training by the middle of next week, though their availability for the match remains uncertain.

Why did AC Milan not play during the weekend?

Originally scheduled for February 8, the Serie A clash between AC Milan and Como drew attention in recent months amid speculation that the match could be moved to Perth, Australia. Although that proposal was ultimately rejected in December, questions remained as to why Milan were the only club not in action last weekend while the rest of the league played Matchday 24.

San Siro was set to host the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games on February 7, leaving the stadium unavailable and not in suitable condition to stage the match. As a result, the idea of moving the game abroad was explored before being dismissed. The Milan-Como fixture will now be played at San Siro, having been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 18.

Erling Haaland has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the 2025-26 Golden Boot after one of the strongest starts of his career, placing him alongside Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé in the race for Europe’s top individual scoring honor. After snapping his most recent scoring drought, the Manchester City striker made a blunt assessment of his form: “I haven’t scored enough goals.“

After matching his own mark of scoring 10 or more goals in the first eight Premier League matches, Haaland has struggled to consistently find the net in recent weeks. Following his goal against Brighton on January 7, the Norwegian didn’t return to the scoresheet until February 8, when he scored against Liverpool four matches later.

With just two Premier League goals in 2026 and one in the Champions League, Haaland addressed his scoring form while speaking to reporters in the mixed zone: “I haven’t scored enough goals since the start of this year, you can say, and I know that I need to improve. I know I need to be more sharp, better at all of this, and this is something that I have to work on.“

Manchester City have played 12 matches across all competitions since the start of the year, with Haaland featuring in every one, but he has found the net only three times. Notably, both of his Premier League goals in that span came from the penalty spot, with his last open-play goal dating back to December 20, when he scored twice against West Ham United.

While declining to go into detail about the reasons behind his dip in form, Haaland pointed to the physical demands of the schedule. “It’s a lot of games. Look at the schedule, it’s not easy, and for me, it’s about staying fit, don’t get injured. That’s the most important thing. And try to be ready to help the team,” as City have averaged just over three days between matches during a 38-day stretch.

With his goal against Liverpool, Haaland has now taken his personal tally to 41 goals in 40 matches across all competitions for Manchester City and the Norway national team. Despite those eye-catching numbers, the striker made clear that he remains unsatisfied and determined to raise his level as 2026 progresses.

How’s the Golden Boot race so far?

Kylian Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot in the 2024-25 season, his first year at Real Madrid, and remains in contention to repeat the feat. However, Harry Kane and Erling Haaland, both previous winners, are firmly in the hunt to prevent the French star from claiming the award in consecutive seasons.

Harry Kane currently leads the race after scoring 24 goals in 21 Bundesliga matches, placing him first with 48 points under the competition’s scoring system. Mbappé sits second with 23 goals in 23 La Liga appearances for Real Madrid, totaling 46 points, while Haaland rounds out the top three with 21 goals from 25 Premier League games, giving him 42 points.

Trailing the leading trio is Brentford striker Igor Thiago, who has scored 17 Premier League goals but remains some distance behind the top contenders. With more than half of the 2025-26 season still to play, the Golden Boot race remains wide open.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al Nassr’s last two matches has caused turmoil in Saudi Arabia, exposing growing tensions between the Portuguese star and the Saudi Pro League. While the situation now appears close to a resolution, a former teammate and Real Madrid legend has publicly backed Ronaldo amid the “disrespect” shown by the league.

As Ronaldo sat out those matches in protest, the SPL issued a statement warning that no player stands above a club’s interests. However, that response did not sit well with Toni Kroos, who, amid the uncertainty, chose to side with his former Real Madrid teammate.

Speaking on his podcast Einfach mal Luppen, the German addressed the issue directly and questioned the league’s stance: “The Saudi league is a strange phenomenon. No one had ever heard of it before Cristiano Ronaldo arrived, and now they’re showing disrespect to the man who put it on the global map.”

Ronaldo’s arrival in December 2022 made him the face of Saudi Arabia’s push to expand its soccer profile. Following his move, several elite players joined the SPL, while the country also secured hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup.

Despite that investment, Kroos was firm in his view that the league’s appeal still hinges on Ronaldo’s presence. “If Cristiano leaves tomorrow, this league will lose all of its appeal. Without Ronaldo, no one would watch the Saudi league,” the former German midfielder concluded.

Ronaldo has not addressed the dispute publicly, though reports indicate he has reached an agreement with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and is set to return to league play. Still, amid the uncertainty, Kroos’ comments reinforce the belief that Ronaldo remains the central figure sustaining the SPL’s global relevance.

Cristiano Ronaldo and a major attendance boost since joining Al Nassr

Ronaldo’s impact on the SPL extends beyond headlines, influencing recruitment and fan engagement at Al Nassr. Head coach Jorge Jesus and new signings João Félix, Iñigo Martínez, and Kingsley Coman have all acknowledged Ronaldo’s role in encouraging their moves to Saudi Arabia.

According to Transfermarkt, Al Nassr averaged 8,202 fans per match at Al Awwal Park during the 2021-22 season, prior to Ronaldo’s arrival. That figure jumped to at least 16,292 after he joined and has climbed to 19,399 this season, placing Al Nassr among the top three SPL clubs in attendance, behind only Al Ahli and Al Ittihad.

New Juventus director Marco Ottolini confirms they ‘had tried’ to sign a striker in January, but are ‘proceeding with meetings’ for Luciano Spalletti and Weston McKennie contracts.

The Bianconeri did surprisingly little in the January transfer window, as although there were advanced negotiations with several forwards, including Randal Kolo Muani at Tottenham Hotspur via Paris Saint-Germain and Youssef En-Nesyri at Besiktas, nobody arrived.

Ottolini outlines Juventus strategy

“We had certain parameters that we had to stay within, so if there had been the right conditions, we would’ve done a deal,” director of sport Ottolini told Sport Mediaset.

“That was not the case for various reasons, but we are happy with the players we have, and we have faith in them.”

Last week was a celebratory one for Juventus, who locked talent Kenan Yildiz down to a new and improved contract.

Now the focus can turn to others who are running down their current deals, including the coach and prolific midfielder McKennie.

“Now that the transfer window is closed, we can look at those issues of contract renewals, and that is what we are doing,” assured Ottolini.

“We are very happy with the Yildiz deal, with regards to McKennie we are proceeding with meetings, while we are very happy with the coach and will sit down with him over the next few weeks.”

Juventus are up against Inter in the fiery Derby d’Italia on Saturday, trying to take down the runaway Serie A leaders, but Roma caught them in fourth place after a 2-2 draw with Lazio.

“At times results come, at others they don’t, but we are extremely happy with the way the team is performing, and we must keep going with conviction.”

After that, Juventus will also be gearing up for the Champions League play-off against Galatasaray.

“The extremely important objective for us is a top four finish, then we’ll concentrate on Istanbul, and hope to go through to the next round,” concluded Ottolini.

Cagliari talent Marco Palestra, on loan from Atalanta, is likely to be called up by Gennaro Gattuso for Italy’s World Cup play-offs next month.

It would be the first senior call for the winger, who will celebrate his 21^st birthday on March 3.

He was only one year old when Italy last won the World Cup in 2006, but he could help the Nazionale to qualify for the tournament in the USA, Mexico and Canada this summer, after missing the last two editions.

Palestra ready for senior Italy debut

According to Sky Sport Italia, Palestra will be in the squad named by Gattuso for the play-offs, which start against Northern Ireland at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on March 26.

If they win, then the Final of the play-off will be against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31.

A product of the Atalanta youth academy, Palestra plays on the right side of Cagliari’s 3-5-2 formation, but can also be a right-back.

He contributed one goal and four assists in 23 Serie A games for the Sardinians so far this season.

The possible absence of Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo on the right further boosts Palestra’s chances of featuring.

Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland took to social media to praise Dominik Szoboszlai following the Hungarian’s stunning free-kick during the dramatic comeback at Anfield on Sunday night.

Despite the intense rivalry on the pitch, Haaland was quick to acknowledge the sheer quality displayed by his former teammate in a match that could prove pivotal in the Premier League title race.

Erling Haaland praises Dominik Szoboszlai for his free-kick

Following the final whistle of the pulsating encounter, Haaland shared a post on Snapchat that quickly went viral.

The Norwegian striker uploaded a still photo from the Liverpool free-kick during the match, with a seven-word message for Szoboszlai.

Haaland captioned the image with a playful seven-word message: “Domi what a goal smile a bit.”

The comment was a direct reference to Szoboszlai’s spectacular long-range strike that opened the scoring, as well as the Liverpool midfielder’s chaotic red card in the end.

Haaland and Szoboszlai are good friends from time at RB Salzburg

The message shows a bond between the two players that predates their time in England.

Haaland and Szoboszlai were close friends during their time at RB Salzburg, where they formed a lethal partnership that terrorized the Austrian Bundesliga and announced their talents to the world in the Champions League.

The close friendship was also seen during the game as the Hungarian midfielder tried to get into Haaland’s head as he stood up to take the winning penalty.

Haaland later revealed what he told Szoboszlai during the friendly exchange. He said: “This is the first time I don’t want to speak with you.

Maybe next time ? pic.twitter.com/MWydTqdEBq

— Manchester City US (@ManCityUS) February 8, 2026

Their friendship has remained intact despite playing for the two biggest rivals in English football.

While they are fierce competitors for 90 minutes, their mutual respect is well-documented, with both players frequently speaking highly of each other’s development since leaving Austria.

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Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior believes his side must be at their best to stop Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Leeds United on Tuesday. Daniel Farke’s in-form side take on the Blues at Stamford Bridge having lost just once in their last four games (W2 D1), most recently defeating relegation rivals Nottingham Forest 3-1 at home. Calvert-Lewin was […]

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Erling Haaland insisted that the Premier League title race is “not over until it’s over” following Manchester City’s late win over Liverpool. After Dominik Szoboszlai’s brilliant free-kick put Liverpool ahead at Anfield, Haaland assisted Bernardo Silva’s equaliser before scoring the winner from the penalty spot. Timed at 92:42, Haaland’s penalty for City was the latest […]

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The post Haaland: The Premier League title race is not over until it´s over appeared first on Soccer News.

After a disappointing start to the season, Manchester United decided to sack Rúben Amorim, leaving the team without clear direction. Amid mounting pressure, they chose to back Michael Carrick as interim coach. To everyone’s surprise, the Englishman has managed to establish an attractive sporting project in the Premier League, sparking optimism among the fans. In fact, two key Red Devils players have publicly voiced their support for a permanent role.

In an interview with TalkSport, Luke Shaw decided to acknowledge the impressive work Michael Carrick is doing at the Red Devils. “Michael Carrick has made lots of difference… But for me, the biggest one is he knows the club, and he knows exactly what’s needed to win football matches, to make everyone happy and to enjoy what we’re doing,” he said. With these statements, the Englishman offers solid support for Carrick’s potential continued tenure.

Joining the 30-year-old star, Bruno Fernandes decided also to publicly support Carrick’s tenure. “I think Michael came in with the right idea of giving the players the freedom to take responsibility on the pitch to do the decisions that were needed. I think he remembers what I told him the last time he was manager. I thought Michael could be a great manager and he’s just shown it,” he said, via TNT Sports.

Despite arriving amid considerable controversy, he has guided the Red Devils to four victories in the Premier League, a feat they hadn’t achieved in two years. Carrick has also implemented an offensive style of play while maintaining defensive consistency. With this, the Englishman has brought out the best in players like Kobbie Mainoo, Patrick Dorgu, and even Matheus Cunha.

Carrick could reject a permanent job at Man United, revels Gary Neville

Following Michael Carrick’s arrival, Manchester United appear close to securing UEFA Champions League places, representing a major step forward for the team after a poor start to the season. Due to his impact, he has received constant backing from several players and club legends in favor of him being appointed on a permanent basis. However, Gary Neville reveals that the coach could end up rejecting the opportunity to continue under certain circumstances.

According to Gary Neville on his podcast, Michael Carrick could consider turning down an offer from Manchester United to remain as the team’s head coach. Far from being a financial issue, the Englishman could make this decision if he feels the club’s front office does not view him as a long-term bet, especially as they continue to look at experienced names such as Thomas Tuchel, Oliver Glasner, or even Carlo Ancelotti.

Unlike the Ole Gunnar Solskjær era, Michael has managed to impose a clear structure at Manchester United. Through this, he has not only delivered strong results but has also implemented an attractive style of play that appears sustainable in the long term. Even so, the coach may require full backing from the Red Devils—support he would not have unless he is a direct bet by INEOS, which is precisely what the Englishman would be seeking.

AC Milan have established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in Serie A. With just one league defeat, they remain very close to the top of the standings. However, despite Christian Pulisic’s level, the Rossoneri continue to face serious attacking issues that have prevented stronger performances. As a result, they are reportedly targeting a young striker as a marquee reinforcement, taking decisive steps toward his arrival.

According to Tuttosport, AC Milan have decided to pursue the signing of Moise Kean. Despite being in top form, Fiorentina may not have much leverage to retain him, as he has a €62 million release clause that can be activated in mid-July 2026. Additionally, Nicolò Schira reports that the Rossoneri sent a scout to the Fiorentina vs. Torino match to monitor the 25-year-old striker’s performance.

Since joining Fiorentina in 2024, Kean has managed to gain significant physical consistency, becoming a regular presence in the team’s lineups. The Italian has also scored 32 goals and provided six assists in 70 games. In addition, coach Massimiliano Allegri previously backed him during his time at Juventus, and Kean has shown clear maturity, leaving behind his off-the-pitch issues. Along with this, his youth and potential fit AC Milan’s requirements.

After several inconsistent seasons, Moise Kean rediscovered his best version with Fiorentina. He even joined Mateo Retegui and Lautaro Martínez as the only players to reach 25 goals over the last two Serie A seasons, as per Opta Paolo. As a result, the Italian is shaping up to be a solution to the lack of goals AC Milan have been suffering from in recent campaigns. However, his high release clause makes the Rossoneri approach his potential signing with caution.

Not only Kean: AC Milan also hold two other potential strikers

Even though Massimiliano Allegri has managed to provide AC Milan with significant stability, the team continues to struggle offensively. Early in the season, Santiago Giménez suffered an injury that kept him sidelined for several months. In addition, Christopher Nkunku has failed to impress with his performances, making a signing up front necessary. Alongside Kean, the Rossoneri reportedly have two other options under consideration.

As per to Tuttosport, the Rossoneri also have two other stars as potential reinforcements up front: Dušan Vlahović and Gabriel Jesus. However, the Serbian’s high salary demands raise doubts within the club, just as the Brazilian’s recurring injuries make them hesitant to bet on him. For this reason, Moise Kean appears to be the preferred option, although both alternatives remain on the table ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Gian Piero Gasperini cannot hide his joy at Donyell Malen’s arrival for Roma after the brace to beat Cagliari. ‘He is in the Gianluca Vialli mould, he will score a ton of goals.’

The Giallorossi knew that this was a big opportunity to recapture fourth place after Juventus were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio last night.

They certainly took it, as Malen bagged a goal either side of half-time to secure the 2-0 victory, beating a Cagliari side who were coming off three consecutive wins, yet had just one shot on target.

Gasperini feels Malen brings ‘vast repertoire’ to Roma

“Undoubtedly it was a very good performance, the first half especially was played at a strong tempo,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.

“We were coming off a defeat to Udinese, but the team showed great strength of character to react to those difficulties, and also played some very good football. It’s a pity we didn’t score more goals, as it left the game somewhat open, but it was good.”

Malen really was the striker that the coach had been looking for, having criticised the movements of Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson, which the former Aston Villa man seems to already understand so well.

“I am convinced he will score a ton of goals this season, so we must know how to give him the right service for his characteristics. We’ve got quality in the attack that is difficult to contain now, as he has a vast repertoire,” smiled Gasperini.

In the post-match interview, Malen had been asked if he wanted to follow in the footsteps of Serie A’s ultimate Dutch legend Marco van Basten, and blushed at the comparison.

“Van Basten was physically very different too, but I do see more similarities with Vialli, in his power, the movement to shake off markers, diagonal runs attacking the space, there is something in the Vialli mould,” insisted Gasperini.

There was also a debut for January signing Bryan Zaragoza, who seemed considerably more impressive going forward than when defending.

Now that the transfer window has closed, did Gasperini get all the characteristics he was looking for to challenge the others in the fight for the top four?

“We always try to be up to the standards of our rivals. We have caught Juventus, while Napoli and Milan are there, Inter have gone by now I think, Atalanta and Como are not far behind us. If we are up there after 24 rounds, that is important, but we want to keep growing in attack.

“The arrival of Malen certainly gives us much more. Now we hope to get some of the players back from injury, but it’s undeniable you need a prolific and efficient set of forwards, otherwise you will not achieve the prestigious targets.”

Cagliari only really threatened Roma with the attacks of wing-back Marco Palestra, who Gasperini had launched into the Atalanta squad last season.

“Palestra was born in 2005, so he’s a kid, but already a top player. We started training him with the youth team at the age of 17, but seeing as Atalanta had an Under-23 team set up by then, and we had a lot of alternatives in the role, he played for them.

“He played a bit in Serie A and the Champions League last season, so it helped, but he is now really flourishing at a young age.”

In an unusually good mood, this was also a rare match without a single VAR intervention.

“It was wonderful, it’s the best! It means everything went smoothly, we didn’t see a lot of stoppages either, so we got to see more football. When the referee sees it all and is able to judge without cameras, that’s the perfect match.”

Donyell Malen blushed at Marco van Basten comparisons after scoring three goals in his first four Serie A games for Roma. ‘I’m very happy, it was a good day.’

It was a great night for the Giallorossi, and by no means to be taken for granted considering Cagliari were coming off three consecutive victories.

Malen had scored on his Serie A debut against Torino on January 18, but these were his first goals at the Stadio Olimpico, and his first brace.

The former Aston Villa striker first beat Elia Caprile from the tightest of angles with a delicate dink, then got between defenders to slide onto the Zeki Celik roll across from the right.

Malen having ideal start at Roma

Inevitably, he was the Lega Serie A Man of the Match, so is the Dutchman looking to follow in the footsteps of Milan legend Marco van Basten in Italian football?

“Van Basten was a very special player, no!” blushed Malen on Sky Sport Italia.

“I’m very happy, a good win, I’m happy with the goals, nice assist, everybody played well, so it was a good day.”

Malen arrived on loan from Aston Villa at a cost of €2m, with option to buy for €25m that can become an obligation of Roma qualify for European football at the end of this season.

He now has an impressive three goals in just four Serie A games.

Standing next to Roma youth academy product Niccolò Pisilli, Malen was asked for a verdict on the midfielder.

“He’s amazing, I always talk to him in training, we need players with his kind of energy, and he brings that to the team.”

The Giallorossi knew that a victory would allow them to catch Juventus in joint fourth place, after the Bianconeri were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio last night.

“It was a good performance, I tried to give my contribution, we played with a lot of intensity, and at times some quality football,” added Pisilli to Sky Sport Italia.

“A modern football player must be able to do everything, especially in midfield.”

Donyell Malen bagged his first brace in the Roma jersey to beat on-form Cagliari, allowing them to catch Juventus in fourth place, with Bryan Zaragoza also making his debut.

The Giallorossi missed Paulo Dybala, Robinio Vaz, Mario Hermoso, Manu Koné, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy, while Gianluca Mancini played with a protective mask after surgery on a broken nose, but deadline day signing Bryan Zaragoza was on the bench. The Sardinians had won three on the bounce against Juventus, Fiorentina and Verona, and beat Roma 1-0 back on December 7 after Zeki Celik saw red. Yerry Mina, Alessandro Deiola, Michael Folorunsho, Gennaro Borrelli, Mattia Felici and Andrea Belotti missed the trip.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Malen was denied by a desperate Juan Rodriguez block from six yards, then Elia Caprile almost got into a terrible tangle controlling a back-pass, forced to sprint back and clear it before the ball completely crossed the line of an empty net.

Matias Soulé curled just wide of the far post, while Niccolò Pisilli rode two tackles to test Caprile at the base of the near post.

Roma took the lead with a moment of rare skill, as Malen ran onto the Mancini through ball down the right and dinked up a delicate finish over the on-rushing Caprile to score from the tightest of angles with his right foot. It was the ex-Aston Villa striker’s first goal at the Stadio Olimpico.

Donyell Malen hits a perfect chip to give Roma the lead over Cagliari

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Malen threatened again with a header off target at the back stick, while Daniele Ghilardi nodded a Lorenzo Pellegrini cross just wide.

Zaragoza made his debut and immediately stood up a cross for the audacious Malen scissor-kick volley at the back post, but it was Zeki Celik who provided the assist for the second Malen goal, rolling it across from the right for the tap-in from point-blank range, getting between defenders.

Donyell Malen at the double to extend Roma's lead

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— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 9, 2026

There was almost a third moments later, but this time Malen sliding in couldn’t connect with the Soulé ball across the six-yard box.

Zaragoza also tested Caprile at the base of the near post, but his error allowed Marco Palestra to break down the right and force a tricky Mile Svilar save.