The influence of Cristiano Ronaldo continues to extend far beyond the pitch. While the Portuguese superstar focuses on his duties with Al-Nassr, his growing involvement with Almeria in Spain has placed the Andalusian club under a global spotlight.

After a crucial victory pushed Almeria closer to returning to the Spanish top flight, the club received a notable reaction from its new high-profile co-owner. The message was brief but powerful, quickly drawing attention across social media and reinforcing the sense that the project in southern Spain is gaining serious momentum. With the promotion race heating up in the Segunda Division, the timing of Ronaldo’s public support could hardly have been more significant.

Almeria’s push for a return to La Liga gained a huge boost after the team secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Cultural Leonesa. The win was more than just another three points. It propelled the team into the automatic promotion places, moving the club up to second in the league standings after 29 matches. That position carries enormous importance in Spain’s second tier, as the top two teams earn direct promotion to La Liga at the end of the season.

For the Spanish ide, the climb up the table represents a dramatic turnaround. The club had endured a difficult period following its relegation from La Liga in April 2024, but recent performances suggest a team rediscovering both confidence and consistency.

In fact, the victory marked Almeria’s fifth win in their last six league matches, underlining the impressive form that has revived hopes of an immediate return to the top flight. The surge in results has come during a time of transformation for the club. A Saudi-backed investment group entered the project in May 2025, and the involvement of Ronaldo earlier this year has only increased the sense that a new era is beginning.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s investment changes the narrative

Recently, Ronaldo officially became a part of Almeria’s ownership structure by purchasing a 25 percent stake in the club through his investment company. The move instantly boosted the club’s global profile.

According to reports, the club’s social media following surged dramatically after the deal, with Almeria rising to become the fifth most-followed Spanish soccer club on Instagram, boasting approximately 3.2 million followers. Only giants such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Sevilla now rank ahead of them in Spain’s digital landscape.

The investment reflects Ronaldo’s growing interest in soccer ownership and long-term sporting projects. But despite the commercial benefits, the immediate focus remains firmly on the pitch: promotion back to La Liga.

What did Ronaldo say?

Shortly after the final whistle against Cultural Leonesa, Ronaldo took to social media to congratulate the team. Despite currently recovering from a hamstring injury in Madrid, the 41-year-old remains closely connected to the club’s progress. His message, posted on Instagram, quickly spread among supporters and media outlets. Ronaldo took to social media to write: “Great win today. We continue.”

Those five words carried symbolic weight, reflecting both encouragement and determination as Almeria’s promotion push enters a crucial phase. For a squad dealing with the pressure of expectation, the public backing of one of soccer’s greatest players serves as a powerful psychological boost.

While the result strengthened Almeria’s position, the road to promotion remains long. The Rojiblancos currently sit four points behind league leaders Racing Santander, meaning the battle for the title and automatic promotion remains wide open.

The rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has defined modern soccer for nearly two decades. Even as both superstars approach the final chapters of their playing careers, comparisons between the two remain constant, not only in terms of trophies and records but also in their enormous financial power.

Today, the Argentine icon represents Inter Miami, while the Portuguese legend plays for Al‑Nassr. Their moves to the United States and Saudi Arabia reshaped global soccer markets, attracting massive audiences and commercial investment. In Miami, Messi’s contract is already widely discussed because the forward earns up to $80 million annually, including salary, sponsorship deals, and other commercial arrangements.

Yet that headline number only reveals part of the story. Messi’s agreement in Major League Soccer is unique in modern soccer and reflects his global appeal. At the same time, Ronaldo’s deal in Saudi Arabia is widely regarded as one of the most lucrative contracts ever offered to an athlete.

The financial structure behind Messi’s Inter Miami deal

Messi’s arrival in Major League Soccer transformed both the club and the league’s international visibility. His move to the United States was not simply a sporting decision but also a business strategy built around partnerships and global marketing opportunities.

According to the club’s co-owner Jorge Mas, the Argentine star’s income goes far beyond a standard soccer salary. When all components of the deal are included, Messi earns between $70 million and $80 million per year. According to ESPN, Mas explained that the official salary figures only represent a fraction of the total value of the contract.

Data from the MLS Players Association indicates that Messi’s base salary is around $12 million per year, while his guaranteed compensation reaches approximately $20.4 million annually. The remaining income is generated through innovative commercial agreements linked directly to Messi’s presence in the league. One of the most notable features of the deal is revenue sharing with Apple, MLS’s global broadcast partner. Messi receives a portion of the revenue generated by subscriptions to the MLS Season Pass service on Apple TV.

The Argentine also benefits from a major endorsement agreement with Adidas, the German sportswear giant that has maintained a long-term relationship with the player. Mas highlighted the financial scale of Messi’s contract while explaining how the club supports the arrangement. “The reason we need world-class sponsors is because players are expensive. I pay Messi — and he’s worth every dollar — but we’re talking about between $70 million and $80 million a year in total,” Mas said.

Beyond salary and sponsorship income, Messi’s agreement also contains a long-term incentive. Once his playing career ends, he will have the opportunity to become a co-owner of Inter Miami, further strengthening his connection to the franchise.

Does Messi earn more than Ronaldo?

While Messi’s MLS contract is extremely lucrative, it still does not surpass the financial scale of Ronaldo’s deal in Saudi Arabia. According to financial estimates from outlets such as Forbes, Ronaldo’s total net worth currently stands at roughly $1.2 billion, compared with around $850 million for Messi.

A significant reason for that difference lies in Ronaldo’s agreement with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr. Financial reporting from Sportico indicates that Ronaldo earns a base salary of approximately $235 million annually. In addition, performance bonuses and commercial incentives can reportedly increase that figure by another $50 million each year.

The contract runs until 2027 and is widely regarded as one of the richest deals ever signed in professional sport. The Portuguese’s income is further boosted by a lifetime partnership with Nike, as well as several business ventures connected to his CR7 brand. These include fashion lines, hotels, and fitness businesses that continue to expand globally.

Since his arrival in 2022, Robert Lewandowski established himself as the undisputed leader of Barcelona’s offense, leading the team in scoring. However, the veteran has experienced a notable dip in form, being surpassed by Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal as goal scorers. Because of this, his future at the club is far from certain, as he has not yet renewed his contract. With this in mind, Robert decided to break his silence regarding his future.

“I don’t know, because I have to feel it. For now, I can’t say anything about what I will decide, because I’m not even 50% sure which path I want to take… With my age and experience, I don’t have to decide right now. Maybe in three months I’ll have to, but even so, I’m not stressed. I need to start feeling it so it will be easier when we talk about my future,” Lewandowski said, via The Athletic.

Unlike in previous seasons, Lewandowski is no longer an undisputed starter, having been relegated by Ferran Torres. In addition, the Blaugranas are reportedly looking to sign a young striker in the summer of 2026, making his continuity unlikely. Despite this, the Pole continues to attract attention from major European clubs such as AC Milan and Atlético Madrid, along with interest from the MLS and the Saudi Pro League.

Acknowledging his dip in form, Robert is determined to fight for his place at Barcelona for at least one more season, reports Mateusz Borek on Sportowy Kanal. To achieve this, he aims to score 10 more goals before the season’s end, seeking to convince the team of his value. Additionally, the Polish player is willing to accept a salary reduction and a secondary role in his new contract, reports Diario Sport.

Barcelona reportedly struggle to sign striker aiding Lewandowski stay

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have relied on Ferran Torres as their usual center forward. Despite this, the Spaniard has proven to be quite inconsistent, accumulating several games without scoring. Because of this, they face the need to sign a world-class center forward, but several issues have reportedly emerged, complicating this plan. With this in mind, Robert Lewandowski’s continuity could remain possible.

According to Diario Sport, Julián Álvarez stands out as Barcelona’s favorite candidate. Despite this, Atlético Madrid will reportedly demand €150 million for his departure, which would make this signing impossible. Additionally, presidential candidate Joan Laporta expressed concerns in an interview with SER, stating that the Argentine is not worth breaking the bank for, and his acquisition would only be viable at a more reasonable price.

Coupled with this, Dusan Vlahovic is reportedly open to staying at Juventus, leaving Barcelona without another clear option. Given this, Lewandowski’s continued presence at the club could become a possibility, as he has proven crucial in key moments. However, the Polish may not wait long to decide his future, urging the Blaugranas to make a decision soon. If they delay, he might choose to leave, further complicating the situation.

Napoli have confirmed the extent of the injury to Antonio Vergara, but in more positive news for Antonio Conte’s side, his ‘Fab 4’ of Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne, Stanislav Lobotka and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa could soon be seen in the same squad. 

When could Vergara, McTominay and Lobotka return for Napoli?

Injuries have been a constant issue throughout the 2025-26 season, sometimes with an entire XI of first-team players unavailable. 

The most recent player to be added to the Partenopei injury list is Vergara. The 23-year-old had only really been given an opportunity in the first team due to the aforementioned injury troubles, but has since gone on to impress, earning the ‘rising star of the month’ award for February and calls for him to be included in this month’s Italy national team squad. 

Vergara was, however, forced off at half-time of Napoli’s 2-1 win over Torino on Saturday, and is now expected to miss the next two league fixtures before the international break coming up at the end of March. 

“Antonio Vergara has undergone diagnostic tests at Pineta Grande Hospital, which revealed a plantar fascia strain in his left foot. He has already begun a treatment programme,” read a statement on the club website on Tuesday. 

As per Corriere dello Sport, a realistic return date for Vergara is the Serie A match against Milan on April 6. 

In more positive news for Conte and his team, De Bruyne, who had missed the last four months of action, returned off the bench against Torino, as did Anguissa, who had missed 16 consecutive Serie A matches with a hamstring injury. 

Scott McTominay is expected to be in contention to feature over the weekend as well, and Stanislav Lobotka is not expected to be out for too much longer either.

Milan finally have centre-forward Santiago Gimenez back in first-team training after missing the last 133 days and the last 19 Serie A matches with an ankle injury. 

Gimenez finally returns to Milan training

The Mexico international, who joined the Rossoneri in a €35m deal from Feyenoord last January, has not featured for Milan since their 1-1 draw against Atalanta in late October. He has been nursing an ankle injury and decided to have surgery to amend the issue in December. 

Gimenez had featured in all of Milan’s first nine matches of the Serie A season and started in eight of them, but has since missed a run of 19 league fixtures, one in the Coppa Italia and one in the Supercoppa Italiana. 

According to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, the Mexico international was back in first-team training with the Rossoneri on Tuesday. 

The Milan squad had taken Monday off following Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina victory over rivals and league leader Inter, and returned to work at their training base on Tuesday. 

It remains to be seen when Gimenez could make his return to Serie A action. He is unlikely to be thrown straight into the starting line-up against Lazio on Sunday, but could potentially be involved with the travelling squad, if not for the match at home against Torino the following weekend.

As things stand, Ruben Loftus-Cheek remains the only Milan player currently unavailable through injury.

Fabio Capello feels that if Inter win their next three league matches, Milan will have no chance whatsoever of catching them at the top of the Serie A table despite their victory in the Derby della Madonnina over the weekend. 

Milan did the double over Inter in the league this season, confirmed after their 1-0 victory against Cristian Chivu’s table-topping side in San Siro on Sunday night. 

Inter still have a seven-point lead at the top of the Serie A table with 10 games to go, but questions have been asked as to whether Milan have any realistic chance of catching them in the final few games of the 2025-26 campaign. 

“Inter have never seemed unbeatable this season, even in the best moments. It’s no coincidence that they’ve lost several direct clashes,” wrote Capello in his La Gazzetta dello Sport column on Tuesday.

“Over the last few months, Chivu has been very good at regenerating a dressing room that was discouraged by the Champions League final they lost to PSG, but now he will have to show even more skill.” 

Capello believes that Inter’s biggest ‘risk’ between now and the end of the season is a psychological one. 

“The derby, or rather the two losses in the derby this season, are the real danger in the race for the Scudetto. To win it, Cristian has to remove the memory of the defeats against Milan from the heads of Barella and his teammates. I’d go into the dressing room and remind them: ‘Guys, we’re the strongest. Let’s go back to having fun’.” 

Capello on Inter’s decisive run and Milan’s Scudetto chances

Inter have a decisive run of fixtures coming up against Atalanta and Fiorentina over the next two weeks and then the Champions League contenders Roma and Como immediately after the international break. 

“Inter have to immediately reconnect, and to deal the decisive blow in the league this season, they have to get through their next three matches with momentum: Against Atalanta, Fiorentina and Roma, their riskiest opponent,” Capello says. 

“As for Milan, if Inter return to their authentic selves, the Rossoneri will not have the opportunity to attempt the overtake in the Scudetto race. It’s a matter of arithmetics.” 

Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has always maintained that Champions League qualification, not the Serie A title, is Milan’s goal this season. 

“Allegri knows the calculations well, but with his experience and with his Scudetti, he knows that the pressure is all on Inter and sometimes the weight of needing to win at all costs can play tricks on you,” Capello continued. 

“Max knows best how to motivate his players and will convince them to try until the very end, even if it’s just to guarantee qualification for next season’s Champions League well in advance, the goal he had heralded in the summer. It seems like an impossible mission, but there isn’t always logic in the last few metres of the race.”

Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.

The 21-year-old is not a key player for the London club, and they would be prepared to sanction his departure. According to NT Vascainos, the player is valued at €40 million, and Manchester United are the ‘frontrunner’ to secure his signature.

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The Brazilian is highly rated, and he could prove to be a superb long-term acquisition for Manchester United. They need more quality and depth in the middle of the park. The 21-year-old will add physicality, technical attributes and drive to the team.

He has impressed under Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg, but he has failed to hold down a regular starting spot at Chelsea. It would be ideal for him to move on. He needs to play more often at this stage of his career. Manchester United is among the biggest clubs in the country, and the opportunity to join them will be exciting. If they can offer him regular gametime, it could be the ideal move for him.

Manchester United are looking to build for the future, and signing the young Brazilian could be a wise decision. If they can sign him for a reasonable amount of money, the investment could prove to be a masterstroke in the long-term. The player has the ability to justify the €40 million price tag in the future.

It will be interesting to see if Chelsea is willing to sanction his departure to a rival club.

Manchester United has an excellent record of grooming young players. They have helped several young players develop into superstars in the past. They could also play a role in the development of the Brazilian midfielder.

The post Man United the ‘frontrunner’ to land €40 million-rated Brazilian gem in summer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal will complete the permanent transfer of Piero Hincapie at the end of the season.

The defender joined the club on loan at the start of the season, and he has been very useful for them. Mikel Arteta is impressed with the Ecuador international’s performances, and Arsenal has decided to sign him permanently. According to Fabrizio Romano, an agreement has already been completed, and the player will join the club on a long-term contract in the summer.

Bayer Leverkusen will receive a fee of €52 million for his services.

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Arsenal are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and having a defender like him could prove to be invaluable. He is capable of operating as a central defender as well as a full back. He could be a very useful player for Arsenal in the long-term.

Fabrizio Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Yes, Piero Hincapie will be the first signing for Arsenal in summer 2026. It was always planned like this. If you remember with David Raya and Brentford, Arsenal did something similar a few years ago.

“So, signed a player on loan with a buy-out option clause, but was always going to be a permanent transfer in the following summer, that’s what’s going to happen also with Piero Hincapie.

“There is already everything signed between Hincapie and Arsenal in terms of contract, a five-year deal. So, it’s already signed and completed. Piero Hincapie already feels like an Arsenal player on a permanent transfer.”

The defender will be delighted to have sorted out his long-term future. He will look to focus on his football and establish himself as a key player for Arsenal now. The next challenge for him is to cement his place in the starting lineup. Arsenal have multiple quality defenders at their disposal, and it will not be easy for the South American to hold onto a regular starting spot.

The post “It’s already signed and completed”: Romano confirms “first signing” for Arsenal in summer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are interested in signing the RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande at the end of the season. 

The 19-year-old has established himself as one of the finest young attacking talents in European football, and he has impressed with his performances in Germany and in Europe. Manchester United have been monitoring him closely, and they could look to make a move in the summer.

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They have added Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo to the attacking unit at the end of the season, but they are looking to add more depth in the wide areas. Diomande would be a superb long-term investment for them. He would add pace, flair, and unpredictability.

Manchester United have recently sent scouts to watch him in action, and it remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer in the summer.

Fabrizio Romano said on his YouTube channel: “What I can say it’s not meaning that Man Utd are going to sign Yan Diomande, but it’s showing that Man Utd maintain a concrete interest in the player.

“Man Utd people, scouts, were in attendance for the last game played by Red Bull Leipzig against Augsburg. I think Yan Diomande scored a goal. He’s playing very well recently.

“It’s not just about the goals. The assist, you can feel he’s an electric winger, very good one-v-one, very fast. He’s a player that several clubs are following, not only Man Utd, but the presence of Man Utd again to follow the player against Augsburg is showing that they are keeping a close eye on the player.”

The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for the 19-year-old. It would be a major step up in his career, and he would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Regular action in the Premier League could help him improve further.

The post “What i can say…”: Fabrizio Romano drops major update on “electric” Man United target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

In what is a heavyweight Round of 16 showdown on Wednesday night, reigning Champions League winners PSG will welcome Chelsea to the French capital. While Luis Enrique’s superstar squad might have made real history last season as they stormed their way to a maiden piece of European silverware, PSG have failed to find a similar […]

The post PSG vs Chelsea Bet Builder Tips – 3/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

The post PSG vs Chelsea Bet Builder Tips – 3/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Igor Tudor has confirmed that Brazilian striker Richarlison has recovered from a hamstring injury and will start the Champions League round-of-16 clash against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, but he refused to say in which position exactly. Right-back Pedro Porro had something to add, though. Igor Tudor: “He {Richarlison} will start tomorrow.” Reporter: […]

The post “Centre-back” – Spurs boss Igor Tudor and right-back Pedro Porro on forward Richarlison starting against Atletico Madrid (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

The post “Centre-back” – Spurs boss Igor Tudor and right-back Pedro Porro on forward Richarlison starting against Atletico Madrid (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.

Verdict: Home win Best odds: 9/10 Bookmaker: Luckster Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea meet at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday night for the opening leg of their Champions League last‑16 clash, rekindling a rivalry last seen on the global stage in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final. On that occasion, Cole Palmer inspired the […]

The post Prediction: PSG vs Chelsea appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: PSG vs Chelsea appeared first on Soccer News.

In the tradition of South American players everywhere, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has been linked with Real Madrid recently, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the Argentina international has no wish to leave Anfield at this stage of his career, being perfectly happy where he is. Mac Allister joined Liverpool from Brighton and Hove Albion […]

The post Mac Allister happy at Liverpool amid Real Madrid links appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Mac Allister happy at Liverpool amid Real Madrid links appeared first on Soccer News.

In the tradition of South American players everywhere, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has been linked with Real Madrid recently, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the Argentina international has no wish to leave Anfield at this stage of his career, being perfectly happy where he is. Mac Allister joined Liverpool from Brighton and Hove Albion […]

The post Mac Allister happy at Liverpool amid Real Madrid links appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Mac Allister happy at Liverpool amid Real Madrid links appeared first on Soccer News.

Match Overview

A place in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League will be on the line when FC Barcelona meet Newcastle United in a highly anticipated clash. Barcelona bring the pedigree and experience of one of Europe’s most successful clubs, along with strong domestic form.

But they will need to stay sharp against a Newcastle side eager to prove itself on the big stage. The English club may lack the same history in this competition, yet their flashes of quality suggest they could challenge the favorites, making this a showdown fans won’t want to miss.

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Match Overview

After eliminating Borussia Dortmund in convincing fashion, Atalanta enter the Round of 16 with confidence and momentum, but the challenge only gets tougher against European powerhouse Bayern Munich.

The German giants secured direct qualification after finishing second in their group and once again look like serious contenders for the UEFA Champions League title, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown between a proven powerhouse and an ambitious challenger eager to prove it belongs among Europe’s elite.

In recent days, Lionel Messi’s name has once again taken center stage in the debates ahead of Barcelona’s presidential election, which will take place next Sunday. In that context, Victor Font, one of the candidates for president, sent a message to the Argentine forward.

Last week, Xavi Hernandez claimed that Messi’s return to Barcelona in 2023 was blocked by Joan Laporta. “His deal was done, we had the green light from LaLiga, but it was the president who pulled the plug on everything. Once again, he isn’t telling the truth,” said the former Spanish midfielder, who at the time was the team’s head coach.

Laporta denied that version and instead offered a different explanation of what happened. “It was like this with Messi: When we couldn’t renew him in 2023 due to financial issues, he told me that Messi wanted to return. I sent the contract to Jorge Messi, who later came to my house and told me that here he would have too much pressure.”

This clash of conflicting accounts comes just days before Barcelona’s presidential election, which is why one of the candidates has expressed his desire for everything to be clarified before Sunday. “I don’t think Messi will speak between now and Sunday, but hopefully he does. Let him explain the truth so the members don’t go to vote misled,” Victor Font said during the Nueva Economia Forum, according to Mundo Deportivo.

“The members should choose the Barca they want starting Monday, not simply decide between candidates,” Font added. He is one of the two options club members can vote for after Marc Ciria and Xavier Vilajoana were ruled out for failing to reach the minimum number of required endorsements.

Laporta and Font agree on Hansi Flick

Although the exchanges between the Barcelona presidential candidates have been constant and often harsh in recent weeks, they appear to agree on one key issue: the continuity of Hansi Flick as head coach.

“I would like him to be the coach for the coming years because he has all the qualities: he is demanding, he is knowledgeable, he is professional, he knows how to deal with players and he is happy here,” Joan Laporta said in a recent interview with SER Catalunya. “He gives you good feelings and has a strong personality and character.”

For his part, Victor Font also addressed Flick while delivering a reassuring message about his future. “I will call him that same Sunday if we win to give him the tools and stability he is asking for,” the presidential candidate said.

After qualifying fifth in the UEFA Champions League, Barcelona secured their spot in the Round of 16, facing Newcastle United. Far from being an easy game, the Spanish side will have a complex task, as the English side have shown themselves to be in full form in the competition. For this reason, fans are closely watching Lamine Yamal‘s status ahead of today’s game, as the 18-year-old star remains the most productive player on the team.

Even though Lamine Yamal has had injuries this season, he has managed to remain in full form, accumulating several consecutive starts. Coming in an impressive good run of form, the Spaniard is expected to start vs. Newcastle United. At just 18 years old, he stands as the team’s top scorer with 19 goals and top assist provider with 15 assists, establishing himself as the undisputed leader of the team.

Along with the young Spaniard, coach Hansi Flick could rely on Raphinha and Fermin Lopez, who have been key for the Blaugranas. Nevertheless, the doubt emerges over whether Robert Lewandowski or Ferran Torres will play as the center forward, with the Pole being the most experienced option. With this, they seek to deliver a strong blow to the English side, aiming for a victory that would set their path toward the Champions League quarterfinals.

Unlike Barcelona, Newcastle United are not living their best moment of the season, dropping to 12th place in the Premier League. In addition, Alexander Isak’s departure left the team without scoring power, leaving the burden on Anthony Gordon and Nick Woltemade, who have not managed to impose themselves. Nevertheless, coach Eddie Howe has managed to impose a defensive strength that can challenge the Blaugranas’ offense.

Newcastle United predicted lineup vs. Barcelona

Despite not being in their best form, Newcastle United have managed to remain quite competitive in the UEFA Champions League, showing a stronger version than in the Premier League. Nevertheless, coach Eddie Howe faces serious problems, as he will be without Bruno Guimarães, Lewis Miley, Fabian Schär, and Emil Krafth. Despite this, he could rely on Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon as key differentiators to beat Barcelona.

With this in mind, Newcastle United could play as follows: Aaron Ramsdale; Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall; Sandro Tonali, Jacob Ramsey, Joelington; Anthony Elanga, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes.

Barcelona predicted lineup vs. Newcastle United

While Lamine Yamal remains in full form, coach Hansi Flick has four absences to face Newcastle United: Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, Frenkie de Jong, and Andreas Christensen. Moreover, Eric Garcia’s presence is in doubt due to physical discomfort. For this, Barcelona will be forced to make changes in defense. Nevertheless, the Blaugranas remain favorites thanks to their impressive offensive firepower.

Considering this, Barcelona could lineup as follows: Joan Garcia; Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Gerard Martin; Marc Bernal, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha; Robert Lewandowski.

Match Overview

With their domestic campaigns offering little hope, Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid turn their focus to the UEFA Champions League, where a place in the quarterfinals is at stake in a clash between two clubs with deep European history.

Tottenham have struggled throughout the Premier League season and view this competition as their clearest path to redemption, while Atletico arrive in slightly better form after showing greater consistency on the continental stage despite an uneven year in Spain. Both sides want to keep their European dream alive!

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Hakan Calhanoglu’s future at Inter is uncertain as the Turkish midfielder’s contract expires in June 2027, and the Nerazzurri have not yet begun talks over a new deal.

Fabrizio Romano and Matteo Moretto report the latest transfer updates on Inter, with a focus on their plans in central midfield.

Latest Inter transfer updates: Calhanoglu and more

Turkish star Calhanoglu faces an uncertain future at the Stadio Meazza as his contract formally expires in June 2027 and the Nerazzurri have not yet opened talks over a new deal.

If the situation won’t change in the next two months, then Calhanoglu’s summer exit will be very likely, according to Romano.

Calhanoglu has been struggling with injuries in recent weeks. He was not involved in Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina and will miss the next Serie A match against Atalanta due to an adductor problem.

Inter are expected to make considerable changes in the middle of the park over the summer. Davide Frattesi, for example, has not been given consistent playing time and already received offers during the January window.

On the other hand, Aleksandar Stanković has impressed the Nerazzurri during his time at Club Brugge and the Serie A giants are expected to activate a clause to bring the 20-year-old back to the club.

• Read more – Inter prepare for 2026-27 summer overhaul with just one contract extension offer

Newcastle have reportedly placed a €90m price tag on Sandro Tonali, making a return to Serie A unlikely for the Italian midfielder, though a move to a top Premier League club remains a realistic possibility.

Italian transfer expert Matteo Moretto reports the latest transfer updates on Italy international Tonali.

Tonali: Latest transfer updates

Newcastle consider the ex-Milan star a key player, but the two parties will decide how to proceed over the coming months, also depending on the offers they receive.

According to the report, the asking price is close to €90-100m and if Newcastle won’t lower their demands, Serie A clubs would have almost no chance of signing him.

Moretto confirms Juventus are the most interested club in Tonali, but the asking price is really high for the Old Lady.

At the same time, some Premier League clubs have already moved, including the two Manchester clubs and the “top four” teams in the standings.

Moretto confirms that Tonali has plenty of admirers in England, but it’s still unclear whether any suitor will match Newcastle’s asking price over the summer.

Tonali, 25, is under contract with Newcastle until June 2028.

The Italian star has scored three goals and provided seven assists in 45 appearances across all competitions this season.

Juventus have also set their sights on Bernardo Silva and Leon Goretzka, both available as free agents at the end of the season.

Six Serie A players, including Adrien Rabiot and Bologna’s Lewis Ferguson, have been given a one-game ban, while Inter director Dario Baccin and Milan were fined after the Derby della Madonnina.

The Serie A sports Judge has issued his verdict after Round 28, as SportMediaset reports.

Sports Judge’s decisions after Serie A Week 28

Cremonese defender Giuseppe Pezzella was sent off after the Grigiorossi’s 2-1 loss against Lecce and fined €10,000 “for having, on the field of play and in a vehement manner, criticised the referee’s performance, addressing the match official with disrespectful expressions.”

Five other players were one yellow card away from suspension before the latest Serie A round and were booked over the weekend, resulting in a one-game ban.

The other suspended players for Round 29 are Milan’s Adrien Rabiot, Roma’s Evan Ndicka, Bologna’s Lewis Ferguson, Cagliari’s Sebastiano Esposito and Genoa’s Patrizio Masini.

Why were Milan fined after derby vs. Inter?

Milan have received two fines. The first, amounting to €22,000, was imposed because the Rossoneri “unjustifiably” caused a two-minute delay during the second half. The second fine, worth €8,000, concerns insulting chants by Milan supporters directed at Inter players. In addition, a group of Rossoneri supporters also pointed a laser beam at an opposing player at the end of the first half.

Inter director Dario Baccin was also fined €10,000 for having repeatedly criticised a refereeing decision after the match in a “disrespectful and arrogant manner.”

Italian journalist Riccardo Trevisani taunts Milan fans over Samuele Ricci’s handball in the Derby della Madonnina: ‘They’d be talking about Marotta League if the roles were reversed.’

Ricci’s handball during Milan-Inter on Sunday continues to cause controversy in Italy, even if referee chiefs have confirmed that the decision not to award the Nerazzurri a penalty kick was correct.

Journalist tells Milan fans ‘be honest with yourself’

Italian journalist Trevisani, one of the most popular football pundits in the country, told Cronache di Spogliatoio (via TMW): “People like to start controversies. Get out of this scarf-wearing, fan-biased way of talking and try to make a clear-headed analysis.

“The Milan fans who say today it was never a penalty would be out in the streets with flags, talking about the Marotta League, if the roles were reversed. At least, to be honest with yourself, otherwise we’ll never improve. In a situation like this, any team that isn’t given a penalty would get angry.”

The controversial penalty incident also caused a debate between Inter and Milan legends Beppe Bergomi and Alessandro Costacurta.

The latter said he was happy that such incidents would no longer be considered penalties, while Bergomi argued that the referee should have reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor.

Milan’s victory against Inter, their second in two games against their city rivals this season, leaves the Rossoneri second in the standings, seven points below the Nerazzurri.

In the tradition of South American players everywhere, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has been linked with Real Madrid recently, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the Argentina international has no wish to leave Anfield at this stage of his career, being perfectly happy where he is. Mac Allister joined Liverpool from Brighton and Hove Albion […]

The post Mac Allister happy at Liverpool amid Real Madrid links appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Mac Allister happy at Liverpool amid Real Madrid links appeared first on Soccer News.

Bradley Barcola insisted that Paris Saint-Germain are “not out for revenge” against Chelsea as the two sides prepare to meet in the last 16 of the Champions League. The Blues defeated PSG 3-0 in the final of the Club World Cup last summer, with Cole Palmer scoring twice before assisting Joao Pedro in the first […]

The post ´We´re not out for revenge´ against Chelsea, says PSG forward Barcola appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ´We´re not out for revenge´ against Chelsea, says PSG forward Barcola appeared first on Soccer News.

Kylian Mbappé stands as the undisputed leader of Real Madrid, shining at the offensive level as the team’s top scorer. Nevertheless, he suffered an injury to his left knee that has kept him out of the last matches and even left him out of the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 game vs. Manchester City. Along with this, the Frenchman has been surrounded by speculation about a serious injury, leading coach Álvaro Arbeloa to give a positive update on his condition.

In the press conference prior to the game between Real Madrid vs. Manchester City, Álvaro Arbeloa gave positive news about Mbappé’s recovery: “He is much better. It is something to take day by day. This whole week has been very positive, he has returned with great sensations and every day he is better. We are expecting him back very soon.” With this in mind, the Frenchman could have chances of playing in the second leg, making an expected comeback.

Following Arbeloa’s statements, the supposed partial tear of Mbappé’s posterior cruciate ligament could be ruled out, relieving the fans. With this, Real Madrid could gain an offensive boost, as only Vinicius Jr., Gonzalo Garcia, and Brahim Diaz remain effective scorers to defeat the Citizens, which seems insufficient to lead the series. Despite this, Kylian’s return could be handled with caution, with evaluations occurring week by week.

Amid Kylian’s absence for the first leg against the Citizens, coach Arbeloa could place all his hopes on Vinicius Jr., who should lead the scoring effort. Nevertheless, Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni could also be key contributors, just as they have been in previous games. Additionally, Los Blancos might even settle for a draw, trusting that Mbappé will make the difference in the second leg.

Real Madrid injury crisis worsens CL clash vs. Manchester City

Although Kylian Mbappé is progressing positively in his recovery, he remains out of the first-leg game vs. Manchester City, as he has not managed to reach his peak form. Far from being the only absence, Real Madrid are suffering a crisis of injuries to several stars that complicate their series in the Champions League Round of 16. With this in mind, coach Arbeloa will be forced to make changes in his lineup.

Not only is Mbappé ruled out for the first-leg clash, but also Jude Bellingham, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Daniel Ceballos, Rodrygo Goes, and Álvaro Carreras. For that reason, the coach may opt for Brahim Diaz or Gonzalo Garcia, and Ferland Mendy in the starting lineup. Nonetheless, Carreras may be able to play in the second leg, alongside the Frenchman, giving Los Blancos high hopes for the second leg at Etihad Stadium.

Vinicius Jr. among three Real Madrid stars on yellow card tightrope

Along with the seven absences due to injury, Real Madrid could even lose more players to compete against Manchester City in the second leg at the Etihad Stadium. Vinicius Jr., Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Dean Huijsen could miss the next Champions League game due to yellow card accumulation if they are booked in the match.

Match Overview

The road to the quarterfinals heats up as Galatasaray host Liverpool in a highly anticipated clash. The Turkish side arrives with momentum after eliminating Juventus to reach this stage and will rely on the energy of their home crowd to challenge one of Europe’s most consistent teams.

Liverpool, meanwhile, proved their quality in the league phase, finishing third with 18 points from a possible 24 and entering the matchup as one of the tournament’s strongest contenders. With both clubs carrying confidence and plenty at stake, this promises to be a thrilling battle you won’t want to miss.

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Juventus have already begun preliminary talks to sign Manchester City star Bernardo Silva as a free agent, but according to Gazzetta, the Bianconeri are facing competition from several clubs, including Galatasaray and Inter Miami.

It is no secret that Bernardo Silva is among the Juventus targets for next season, especially because the Portuguese is available as a free agent at the end of his contract in June.

Bernardo Silva to leave Manchester City in June

Gazzetta dello Sport confirms that the Portugal international has decided not to extend his contract with the Premier League giants, so he’ll be listening to offers from other clubs in the coming months.

Juventus will need Champions League revenues to match the midfielder’s salary demands, which are between €7m and €8m per season.

The Bianconeri are aware that the competition will be stiff as the 31-year-old has reportedly attracted interest from Galatasaray, Inter Miami and Benfica, among others.

Juventus have set their sights on other free agents as well. Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich) is another target in central midfield, and so are Roma’s Zeki Celik and Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi in defence.

Riccardo Calafiori trained with the rest of the Arsenal team today and is expected to be available for tomorrow’s Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen, providing good news for the Italy national team as well.

Italy defender Calafiori took part in Arsenal’s training session on Tuesday on the eve of an away Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen.

Calafiori returns to Arsenal training after injury

Several sources, including Football London, report that the ex-Bologna defender was spotted on the pitch on Tuesday during the final Gunners’ training session before their trip to Germany.

Calafiori was forced to be substituted during the second half of Arsenal’s FA Cup 5th Round match against Mansfield Town over the weekend.

Mikel Arteta said the Italian had “little niggles” and wasn’t “comfortable continuing.”

Calafiori’s recovery comes as good news for Italy national team as well. In barely two weeks, in fact, the Azzurri will face Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal in Bergamo.

The match will be played on March 26, while the potential Final will be against the winner of Wales-Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta will possibly provide a more in-depth fitness update during a pre-match press conference later today.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino reveals that Inter legend Evaristo Beccalossi was one of his first idols as a kid: ‘He made us dream and sometimes…’

As FIFA prepares for the 2026 World Cup, its President Gianni Infantino spoke to AS about the tournament’s organisation and his passion for the game.

Infantino: Beccalossi among ‘my first idols’

“I’ve been a total football fan since I was a child. I have many idols. I remember the World Cup in Spain in 1982. Italy won it, with Paolo Rossi and that whole team of great players,” he said.

“For me it was spectacular. I was a 12-year-old boy at the time. That team and that moment are engraved in my heart. I’m also a supporter of Inter. One of my first idols – perhaps not well known in Spain – was Evaristo Beccalossi, a No. 10 who didn’t play in that World Cup or with the national team because the coach had other plans. Inter’s No. 10 made us dream and sometimes… also some things that can’t be said. I remember Alessandro Altobelli scoring a goal in the final. His third goal and the celebration against Germany were spectacular.”

Beccalossi spent six seasons at Inter, scoring 37 goals in 217 matches between 1978 and 1984. Despite being one of the most creative footballers at the time, he never made his senior debut for Italy.

“Speaking about the 1980s and 1990s, we must talk about Diego Maradona, one of the greatest of all time,” Infantino continued.

“When you watch the images now, you think about what he did and what he was capable of. Players weren’t protected like they are now. An idol, a phenomenon. I didn’t see Pelé play, but he was a global idol before social media, before globalisation. He’s still an idol for children today, and they never saw him play – that means he did something special. Ronaldo Nazario was a phenomenon too. Whenever you talk to players and ask who the strongest player they played with was, ninety per cent say Ronaldo. He was spectacular.”

As for today’s idols, the decision is quite simple.

“They’re still there – Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo – but I also have to remember all the Spaniards who won the 2010 World Cup. Many of them are friends now: Xavi, Iniesta, Casillas, Puyol… Spain has always had great players and coaches like Vicente del Bosque, Luis Aragonés and Pep Guardiola. They are people who have written the history of football, and that’s why we are very grateful to Spain.

“With the Club World Cup, we give opportunities to players from all over the world. We see the big clubs mainly in Europe and America, but there you can also see great clubs from other continents,” concluded Infantino.

“Club football is the foundation of football. Much more is played at the club level than at the national team level, and it needed a tournament like this internationally. It has been a success. Now we are talking with everyone to see how we can improve it. People mention thirty-two teams, but there could be more. We will decide where it will be played – that hasn’t been decided yet – but we’ll take the necessary time after the World Cup to see how we can make it better.”

Milan owner Gerry Cardinale congratulated Rossoneri players in the dressing room after Sunday’s 1-0 win over Inter, reinforcing the club’s intention to keep Massimiliano Allegri in charge beyond the summer.

Milan owner Cardinale visited the Rossoneri players in the dressing room at the Stadio Meazza on Sunday night, after their 1-0 win against city rivals Inter.

What Cardinale told Milan players after a 1-0 win against Inter

According to Gazzetta, Cardinale told the players that he was proud of them for showing great spirit and never giving up. He thanked the footballers, the staff members and those working behind the scenes and suggested he’d soon return to watch the team in action at San Siro.

Milan sit second in the Serie A table, seven points below Inter. According to the report, Cardinale is satisfied with the team’s results and performances, but also with the work of directors Giorgio Furlani and Igli Tare, as well as his main advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Cardinale is in constant contact with management and feels the project is finally on the right path with Allegri at the helm.

The Italian tactician is seen as an added value, and Cardinale fully trusts him. Allegri is contracted with Milan until 2027 with an automatic option to extend to 2028 if Milan qualify for the Champions League this season.

The club can activate the clause regardless of the team’s final placement this season, and, according to previous reports, they will also offer Allegri a new contract once they secure a Champions League spot.

Referee chiefs agree that Samuele Ricci’s handball in the final minutes of Sunday’s Milan derby was not worthy of a penalty kick as the Italian midfielder didn’t increase the volume of his body, Gazzetta reports.

Referees verdict on Ricci handball incident

Referee Daniele Doveri and VAR made the right decision in not awarding a penalty kick to Inter in the final minutes of Sunday’s derby against Milan after Rossoneri midfielder Ricci touched the ball with his arm inside the box.

As reported by Gazzetta, referee chiefs agree that Ricci’s handball was not a punishable offence.

Ricci did touch the ball with his arm, but the impact occurred while he was in motion, without increasing the volume of his body, and, above all, the act of pulling his arm back reduced the punishability.

Milan’s eventual 1-0 win over their city rivals allowed the Rossoneri to reduce their gap from the top of the table, but Max Allegri’s men still remain seven points below the Nerazzurri with ten Serie A games to go.

Italian football has always been known for its defensive stability, the flawless structural units at the back, rather than being aggressive on the attacking front. Whenever someone mentions football in Italy, the first thing that comes to mind is how solid they are at defending.

However, this hasn’t always been the case. Although the Italian defence focused more on intelligent positioning and defensive solidarity, a lot of work also went into the goal-scoring part of the game, which, as all of you will agree, is one of the most important factors in winning a game.

While the traditional identity remains true to Italian football, the game has evolved a lot over the years, and Italian teams have had to change their style to keep up with modern times. One of the biggest changes we’ve noticed is in the goalscoring trends.

From the 1990s through the early 2000s, matches in the Italian top division, Serie A, averaged around 2.4 to 2.6 goals per game. This trend continued into the 2010s, reaching a notable peak between 2019 and 2021, when an average of nearly 3 goals were scored per match. However, scoring rates have since returned to their usual levels, which in football analysis reflects the strong balance that now exists between defensive organisation and attacking play in modern Serie A football.

This evolution in gameplay is largely driven by the tactical approaches adopted by the league’s top teams. Clubs like Inter deploy a 3-5-2 formation, where three central defenders provide defensive stability while the wing-backs push high up the pitch to support attacks. During defensive transitions, they drop back to form a compact 5-3-2 shape, giving the team the necessary defensive cushion. Watching these tactical shifts unfold becomes even more engaging when following the fastest live football scores, as fans can track every key moment of Serie A matches in real time.

During their latest golden era, Milan often adopted a 4-3-2-1 formation, allowing them to play a fluid, dynamic brand of football. Wide players and central midfielders combined effectively to carve out spaces with precise passing and intelligent movement. Maintaining possession is not their primary objective; instead, they focus on quick decision-making and rapid ball progression to force mistakes from the opposition. These fast-paced transitions make keeping up with the fastest football live scores essential for fans who want to stay updated with the action as it unfolds.

Napoli, particularly during their recent Scudetto-winning season featuring players like Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, adopted a vertical style of play. Their approach relied on quick wingers and a traditional number nine leading the attack, emphasising direct passing and rapid offensive transitions. Napoli demonstrated that vertical football can be highly effective in the Italian league when supported by the right quality of players. Their attacking intensity often leads to exciting matches, which is why many fans rely on the fastest live football scores to follow every crucial moment of Napoli’s high-tempo games.

Despite the advancements in the attacking front, defensive structures still remain one of the core characteristics of Italian football. Juventus were quite adept in doing this, as they kept their lines compact, didn’t commit too quickly, which could open up small spaces in the middle, and added a hint of intelligent positioning and solid coverage from the midfielders to complement it.

Football in Italy isn’t focused on aggressive pressing. Instead, the Italian football teams focus on controlling the spaces smoothly with a lot of patience off the ball, forcing the attackers to move to less dangerous parts of the pitch, from where the odds of chance creation are minimal. There are a few teams now who still adopt deeper defensive blocks, but most teams try to win the ball higher up the pitch, which is quite uncanny to the style of football in Italy. This approach is one of the main reasons why Italian football seems quite tactically intense, although some might label it as boring to watch due to the low probability of exciting moments in the game.

Set-pieces have been an integral part of Italian football since its inception. If we look at the stats across all of Europe, about 20-25% of the goals come from set-piece situations, of which 8% is being constituted from the Serie A only. Italian teams do focus a lot on set-piece situations, especially free-kicks and corners. Their well-built defenders and midfielders have an edge over most other players when it comes to contesting a duel, and are usually successful in finding the back of the net from such circumstances.

In other words, Serie A is one of the most tactically contested leagues in the world right now. It may not seem pleasing to the eye, but one cannot deny the amount of work that happens behind the scenes of the defensive and attacking phases. They have stayed true to their defensive traditions, making it a hallmark for teams to follow in the future while embracing modern high-tempo football to make the games more exciting. Once Zlatan Ibrahimovic said, Italian football is one of the toughest leagues in the world and also one of the most tactical, even if it’s not visible to the naked eye. Well, who can argue with the big man himself?

Luka Modric was certainly among the best players on the pitch in Milan’s 1-0 win over Inter, so here’s a video with the best touches the Croatian star made at San Siro on Sunday night.

Modric didn’t score or assist in Milan’s derby victory against Inter on Sunday, but was undoubtedly among the best players on the pitch.

As reported by Sofascore, Modric’s passing accuracy was 89%, including 22 successful passes from 27 in the opposition half (81%).

The 40-year-old played the whole game and provided one key pass against Inter.

Video: Best Modric touches vs. Inter

West Ham United have been told that both Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summervilla could leave the club even if the Hammers avoid relegation.

Struggling to find consistency this season, the Hammers have flirted with relegation all season.

That has put the future of some of their key players into question as clubs are sensing they have an opportunity to steal key players from the Hammers.

The chances of relegation this season are huge but even if they stay in the Premier League, Keith Wyness believes that Bowen and Summerville will leave the club for a new challenge elsewhere.

West Ham United have been warned

Former Everton CEO Wyness believes that the Hammers will be active in the summer transfer window to make big changes to the squad.

He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “I think Bowen and Summerville were already talked about in January as moving on, and I’m pretty sure they’re nailed on to go as well in the summer.

“So West Ham is going to be a very active club in terms of restructuring the squad, no matter which division they’re in. And also, I would just add that West Ham have never really done well in having a stable established sporting director position and group in there.

“There always seems to have been friction with managers and that never quite worked out. And that’s coming home to roost now in terms of the performances of the squad right now. And again, will that mean that will they have a really cohesive strategy going into the summer?

“It’s a club in deep problems right now, and some deep-rooted problems that stem right to the top. So let’s see where they get on with this relegation battle, but certainly, financially, and I think football wise, there’s some big question marks and some big red lights flashing right now.”

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Bowen and Summerville face uncertain future

Bowen is West Ham’s talisman, captain, and easily their most consistent performer. He is tied down to a long-term contract until 2030, which protects his value.

However, as an established England international, playing Championship football is simply out of the question.

Aston Villa have reportedly started making initial inquiries about his availability for the summer window.

If West Ham manage to stay up, they will demand an astronomical, “hands-off” fee to even consider letting him go. However, if the club is relegated, a massive transfer scramble is expected.

Summerville has been in electric form in the second half of the 2025/26 season, scoring crucial goals and carrying much of West Ham’s attacking threat alongside Bowen. This purple patch has naturally put him on the radar of several top clubs across Europe.

But, just like Bowen, if relegation happens, Summerville will be one of the first out the door to help plug the financial gaps that come with dropping down a division.

Report: West Ham land highly-rated youngster after his departure from Arsenal

The post West Ham duo certain to leave the club in summer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt could be on the move this summer, with Arsenal and Barcelona reportedly among the clubs keeping a close watch on his situation.

According to Sky Sports Deutschland journalist Patrick Berger, both European giants are monitoring the German international as he approaches the final months of his contract in Dortmund.

Brandt has yet to begin formal discussions with any club regarding his next destination.

However, the 29-year-old is understood to be seriously considering a move abroad when his current deal expires at the end of the season.

Brandt’s situation at Borussia Dortmund

Brandt has been a key figure for Borussia Dortmund since joining the club from Bayer Leverkusen in 2019. Known for his creativity, technical ability, and versatility across attacking midfield roles,

Brandt has consistently contributed to Dortmund’s attacking play.

Over the past few seasons, he has often been deployed as a central playmaker but is equally comfortable operating on the wings or in deeper creative positions.

His vision, passing range, and ability to unlock defences have made him a valuable component of Dortmund’s attacking system.

Despite his importance to the squad, Brandt’s contract situation has created uncertainty about his future.

With his current deal set to expire this summer, Dortmund face the possibility of losing one of their most experienced players on a free transfer.

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Interest from Arsenal and Barcelona is increasing

Both Arsenal and Barcelona are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Brandt.

Arsenal’s interest appears linked to the club’s desire to add experienced creative options to their midfield as they continue to compete for major honours under Mikel Arteta.

Brandt’s technical qualities could make him a useful addition to Arsenal’s squad depth, particularly as the club balances domestic and European competitions.

Barcelona, meanwhile, have been actively searching for creative midfielders capable of operating between the lines.

The Catalan club’s financial constraints have often forced them to prioritise players available on free transfers, making Brandt an appealing option.

Arsenal considering loan move for English defender struggling to get playing time

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Real Madrid are reportedly assessing several managerial candidates as they prepare for a possible change in leadership ahead of next season, with Mauricio Pochettino emerging as one of the names under consideration.

According to sources cited by ESPN, the Argentine coach has been placed on the club’s shortlist as the Spanish giants evaluate options to replace Álvaro Arbeloa.

Discussions regarding the club’s future direction are ongoing, with president Florentino Pérez believed to be closely involved in shaping the next phase of Real Madrid’s sporting project.

Pochettino, who has also been linked with a move to his former club Tottenham, is a man in demand and after the World Cup in the summer this year, the Premier League and the La Liga sides are expected to make a move for him.

Real Madrid are assessing their next manager target

Real Madrid’s leadership has reportedly begun reviewing potential managerial candidates.

While no final decision has been made regarding Arbeloa’s future, sources suggest the club is preparing for the possibility of a change in the dugout.

Arbeloa, a former Real Madrid player, has been part of the club’s coaching structure for several years and has worked closely within the organization’s development system.

However, managing Real Madrid comes with immense expectations, and the club’s leadership regularly reassesses its direction to ensure continued competitiveness at both domestic and European levels.

The former Spanish defender was given the job following Xabi Alonso’s sacking this season and since then he has struggled to steady the ship.

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Tottenham are also monitoring Pochettino

The North London club, currently battling relegation in the Premier League, are looking to stabilise their club and they feel Pochettino is the right man to do that job.

The manager has reportedly shown interest in moving back to Tottenham despite their struggles.

With Real Madrid now entering the picture, Pochettino would certainly favour a move to the La Liga giants.

It would give him the chance to manage in La Liga again and work closely with some world class players like Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr. and others.

Midfielder could leave Tottenham after just one season in North London 

The post Tottenham would face competition from Real Madrid to appoint top manager target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

German Karl-Heinz Rummenigge tells Bayern Munich they should not underestimate Atalanta in their Champions League Round of 16 meeting tonight: ‘Many big clubs have made the same mistake.’

Atalanta, the only Serie A club remaining in the Champions League, will host Bayern Munich at the New Balance Arena in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 tonight.

Rummenigge: ‘No more easy games’ in the Champions League

Rummenigge, a former Bayern Munich and Inter star and now a member of the Supervisory Board of the Bundesliga giants, told Gazzetta: “The important thing is not to make the same mistake many big clubs have made in the Champions League: being favourites and ending up losing. Like Manchester City against Bodo, or Borussia. A year ago, we won 2-1 away in Glasgow in the play-off first leg, then we were losing in the return leg, and we levelled the score in the final minutes to qualify. It’s a mistake that is often made. The public opinion believes it’s an easy game, but there are no more games like this.”

Atalanta already eliminated Borussia Dortmund from the Champions League knockout play-off, coming back from two goals down to secure a 4-3 aggregate win, thanks to a 4-1 win in the return leg.

“No, I didn’t expect it. Nobody should be underestimated this season,” Rummenigge continued.

“Even the so-called small teams are doing well. Nobody thought Bodo/Glimt would eliminate Inter. They won the first leg, and everyone thought the result would have changed in the return leg. On the other hand, they even won at San Siro. Those who have qualified for the Round of 16 should not be underestimated.

“Atalanta is a small team that must be respected; in the past, they also beat Bayer Leverkusen, so they must be respected in all aspects. And remember what we saw against Borussia,” he continued.

“They could have conceded even more goals in the first leg, and nobody in Germany thought Dortmund could be eliminated. In this phase of the Champions League, you need humility, respect, and focus to move forward. Bayern certainly want to do so. We are having a very good season, as we are still running in all competitions.”

Rummenigge knows Atlanta well, on and off the pitch.

“They should not be underestimated, and I also like the club’s organisation. I’ve met the Percassi family, and I like the way they see football,” he said.

“They manage the club calmly and don’t go under pressure. They were also lucky to have picked Gasperini, who has played a great role in Atalanta’s success. Winning the Europa League is not normal, and I’m not just talking about the results, but also the quality of football. I see that also his successor, Palladino, is doing really well. In today’s football, you need the quality of the team, but also a quality coach, also on a human aspect.”

The winner of Atalanta-Bayern Munich will face either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich, and Rummenigge has clear ideas about the team he’d like to face in the quarter-finals.

“I hope my friend Pep Guardiola will go through, but I have great respect for Real Madrid in the second part of the season. Usually, from February, you see another Real. When the decisive games arrive, Real is always Real,” he concluded.

Milan’s 1-0 win over Inter on Sunday was decided by an 80-second spell in which Inter could have scored, but Milan struck instead.

There’s an old saying in Italian football that goes: ‘Goal sbagliato, goal subito.’ The translation is quite easy: miss a goal-scoring opportunity, and the opponents will score instead.

The decisive 80 seconds of Milan vs. Inter

It’s exactly what happened in the Milan derby on Sunday when the Rossoneri took all three points thanks to Pervis Estupinan’s first goal with the club.

The ex-Brighton defender found the net just a few seconds after Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s missed chance on the other end.

Below, via Lega Serie A, is the video of the 80 seconds that determined Milan’s win in the Derby della Madonnina.

Bologna winger Federico Bernardeschi reveals Gian Piero Gasperini wanted to bring him to Atalanta in 2022 when he eventually joined Toronto FC from Juventus: ‘ I admit money influenced my decision for 80%.’

Bologna winger Bernardeschi released an interview with Gazzetta just a few days before the Rossoblu’s Europa League meeting with Roma in the Europa League Round of 16.

Bernardeschi returned to Serie A last summer after spending three years at Toronto FC.

Bernardeschi: ‘No easy games’ in Serie A

“I’ve found a different Serie A football; now even the smaller teams are more equipped; technology is helping everyone, and everyone is organised,” the Italian said.

“There’s never an easy game, at any level, from race for survival to Europe.”

The first leg between Roma and Bologna will be played at the Dall’Ara this coming Thursday, but the Giallorossi will be without Paulo Dybala, a former teammate of Bernardeschi at Juventus.

“I’m sorry for Paulo, I’d have been happy to challenge him, even if it’s always better not to play against his left foot,” admitted Bernardeschi.

“But I’ll be glad to see many Azzurri friends. When I joined Juventus, I asked if I could get the no. 10. They said I was too young and should have waited a year. Then Dybala took it, who was already in his third year. I would have preferred to face a foreign club, because, as an Italian, I’d have been happier to see two Italian teams go as far as possible.”

Bernardeschi’s move to Bologna raised eyebrows over the summer, with some in the media suggesting he was no longer suitable for Italian football after such a long spell in Canada.

Bernardeschi, on the other hand, has scored five goals and provided one assist in 32 appearances and has never had doubts about his ability to make an impact at the Dall’Ara.

“I know myself. I didn’t go to Canada to take a walk in the park,” he said.

“I put maximum commitment into everything I do, even if I admit money influenced my decision for 80%, and the remaining 20% was a life choice. I’ve always trained and cared for my body meticulously. I’ve learned from Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus how to be a professional in all aspects and be a great professional. In Bologna, I took a month to readjust. I suffered a knee injury and was forced to skip pre-season. But my physical figures were high in the MLS, and I knew I was competitive.”

Bernardeschi could have even played under Gasperini at Atalanta.

“He called me before moving to Toronto, and I was tempted, but then I made a different choice. I don’t regret it, but I would have loved to work with him; I knew I could add a piece to my career,” the winger concluded.

“Roma looked for me when I was at Juventus, but I said no. I was happy in Turin, and I still have a house there, where I’m Yildiz’s neighbour.”

Source: Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper, March 10, 2026, page 24.

Gianluca Scamacca’s Atalanta host Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo for the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 tonight.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT). Atalanta are the only Serie A side remaining in Europe’s elite competition.

Juventus and Inter were eliminated in the knockout play-off, while Napoli didn’t even finish the league phase in the top 24, facing elimination after the opening eight matches.

Atalanta must cope without the injured Ederson, Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori, while Giorgio Scalvini is suspended.

Therefore, as reported by Gazzetta, Marten De Roon and Mario Pasalic will start in the middle of the park, while Lazar Samardzic and Nicola Zalewski will be the attacking midfielders for La Dea.

Bayern Munich star Kane has recovered from a minor injury and will start up front for the Germans.

Manuel Neuer, however, is unavailable, so second-choice goalkeeper Jonas Urbig, 22, will get the nod between the sticks for the Germans.

Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich – where to watch on TV

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

Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich – probable line-ups

Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, De Roon, Pasalic, Bernasconi; Samardzic, Zalewski; Scamacca. 

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1): Urbig; Stanisic, Upamecano, Tah, Laimer; Kimmich, Pavlovic; Olise, Musiala, Diaz; Kane. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport

La Dea, play for all.

Champions League Round of 16: Super Bayern arrive, but Atalanta have hope.

Rummenigge: ‘Hot stadium, they must be respected.’

Max trust

Cardinale ties Allegri down and launches Milan’s comeback.

Inter, magnificent +7

Thuram and Dumfries are ready for Saturday, and Luis Henrique pays.

Fourth spot? Take it with goals

Corriere dello Sport

Juve and Roma out!

Champions League Surprise, Como favourite.

Fixture list and head-to-head, find out Opta’s predictions.

10 games to go and still 18 big games. Gasperini visits Fabregas on Sunday. Spalletti from the risk of -7 to the idea of overcoming. Cesc has 37.78% of chance, Lucio 34.57% and Gian Piero 33.91%.

Napoli, another De Brune is back

Pistilli climbs: Gattuso studies him

Lazio’s redemption: decisive Marusic.

Chivu’s therapy, Scudetto to Inter

Confrontation between Cristian and the team yesterday. From +7 to the silence for Ricci’s handball.

Dea for history, Bayern obstacle

Scamacca against Kane. Palladino’s charge: ‘We want another magical night’

Tuttosport

Dea of Italy: go!

Champions League RO16 First leg: Atalanta-Bayern

Nearly impossible challenge for the only Italian team remaining. Palladinoo: ‘It will be a magical night, we’ll try to go beyond absences, and our fans will drag us. Enjoy it and play for it.’

Either Champions or Champions

Juventus amid renewals and race for the top four. The team receives a message from the owners. Not playing in the wealthies tournament would change the transfer perspectives, even making Spalletti’s future more complicated. Elkann wants to avoid new financial shocks, so the coach and the players have been given even more responsibility. Professor Bava: ‘If they miss out on Champions League, it would be a lot to break even, and Yildiz’s future would be uncertain too.

Allegri, devilries for the title, Chivu’s anxiety

Max’s plans to put pressure on the Nerazzurri. The rival amid phantoms and injuries: Calhanoglu out again.

Toro’s goal: Falcone is Petrachi’s target

AC Milan are reportedly evaluating the possibility of signing Manchester City defender Nathan Aké as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the next season.

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, the Serie A club has added the Netherlands international to their shortlist, with the potential to secure him for a relatively modest fee compared to his market value.

Milan’s recruitment team is actively exploring opportunities to reinforce the back line, particularly with an eye on adding experienced defenders who can contribute immediately at the highest level.

Aké’s situation at Manchester City has therefore attracted attention, especially with his contract currently set to run until 2027.

Nathan Ake’s role at Man City

Aké has been a reliable member of Pep Guardiola’s squad since joining Manchester City from Bournemouth in 2020.

While not always a guaranteed starter, the 31-year-old has played an important role in City’s defensive rotation during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

The primary catalyst behind Milan’s opportunistic interest is Aké’s contract situation at the Etihad Stadium.

His current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2027, meaning he will enter the precarious final 12 months of his contract at the end of this current campaign.

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AC Milan are looking for experienced defenders

AC Milan have been reassessing their defensive structure as they plan for the coming seasons.

The club is seeking experienced players capable of strengthening the squad while also fitting into their tactical approach.

Reports from Italy suggest that because his contract expires in 2027, Man City may consider reasonable offers if they decide to refresh parts of their defensive unit.

Aké’s exceptional versatility is a massive draw for the Milan brass. Capable of operating flawlessly as a traditional center-back, a left-sided defender in a back three, or aggressively stepping up as an inverted left-back, he would provide invaluable depth.

A move to San Siro would offer Aké a fresh, prestigious challenge and a more guaranteed starting role in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

Man City closing in on the signing of £70 million Newcastle United star

The post Report: AC Milan plotting cut-price summer swoop for Man City defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal could be open to selling Leandro Trossard during the upcoming summer transfer window, with reports suggesting the club may begin negotiations if offers in the region of £20-25 million arrive.

According to Sports Boom, the Belgian winger has attracted interest from several clubs, including Newcastle United and Aston Villa, while teams outside England are also monitoring the situation.

Arsenal’s squad planning for next season is already underway, and the club’s hierarchy may be willing to make difficult decisions in order to balance the squad and create space for new arrivals.

Trossard, who has been a valuable contributor since joining from Brighton in 2023, is among the players whose future could be reconsidered.

Why Arsenal could consider selling Trossard in the summer

Trossard has often delivered when called upon, providing goals and creativity across multiple attacking positions.

His versatility allows him to play on either wing or as a false nine, making him a useful option in manager Mikel Arteta’s tactical system.

However, Arsenal’s attacking depth has grown considerably in recent seasons. With players such as Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, and other attacking options competing for minutes, Trossard has occasionally found himself rotating in and out of the starting lineup.

At 31 years old by the start of next season, Arsenal may view the summer window as an opportunity to generate funds while maintaining the club’s strategy of refreshing the squad with younger players.

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Newcastle United and Aston Villa are interested

Both Newcastle United and Aston Villa are reportedly evaluating a move for the Belgian
international. Newcastle are believed to see Trossard as a reliable addition to their attacking depth, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Anthony Gordon’s future at St. James’ Park.

Trossard’s experience in the Premier League and his ability to operate across the front line make him an attractive option for Eddie Howe, whose team is seeking consistent attacking options to support their ambitions domestically and in Europe.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa reportedly believe the winger would fit naturally into Unai Emery’s tactical system.

Emery values intelligent attackers capable of quick transitions and positional flexibility, qualities that have long been associated with Trossard’s playing style.

Arsenal considering loan move for English defender struggling to get playing time

The post Arsenal ready to sell attacker to Newcastle United appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United’s reported interest in Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde appears unlikely to lead anywhere this summer, with the Spanish club determined to keep hold of the highly rated left-back.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona have no intention of allowing the 22-year-old to leave, viewing him as an essential part of their long-term plans.

United’s recruitment team continues to evaluate several positions ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window.

While the club had been linked with Balde in recent weeks, their priorities now appear to lie elsewhere following defensive reinforcements earlier in the season.

Barcelona are committed to keep Balde

Balde has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most promising academy graduates in recent years.

Since breaking into the first team, the Spanish international has impressed with his pace, attacking intent, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively down the left flank.

Barcelona’s leadership reportedly see Balde as a pillar of the club’s future defensive structure.

The club has invested heavily in developing young talent through its academy, and Balde represents one of the most successful products of that system in recent seasons.

Because of his importance, Barcelona have reportedly dismissed the possibility of negotiating his departure.

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Man United are planning to sign a new left-back

Man United’s initial interest in Balde was linked to their search for long-term solutions on the left side of defense.

However, the club recently secured the signing of Patrick Dorgu, who is expected to compete for the left-back role moving forward.

Dorgu’s arrival has effectively reduced the urgency of pursuing another player in that position.
Instead, United’s recruitment strategy is expected to focus on other areas of the squad.

Reports indicate that the club is prioritising a new left-sided attacker, along with additional reinforcements in central midfield and possibly central defense as part of their broader rebuilding project.

Man United target pacey Frenchman as Rashford nears permanent Barcelona move

The post Man United ready to target Barcelona star but expected to face instant rejection appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham midfielder Xavi Simons could become one of the players attracting significant transfer interest during the upcoming summer window.

According to journalist Nicolò Schira, the Dutch international may consider leaving Spurs at the end of the 2025/26 season as speculation grows about his future in north London.

Tottenham are enduring a turbulent campaign in the Premier League, with inconsistent performances leaving the club fighting to secure stability in the table.

Such uncertainty has inevitably raised questions about the future of several key players, including Simons.

Simons has struggled for consistency at Tottenham

Since joining Tottenham, Simons has not been able to prove himself like he did in the Bundesliga.

The Dutchman has struggled to perform consistently for Spurs this season and that has been one of the reasons of their poor form this.

Simons is most effective as an advanced playmaker, capable of linking midfield and attack while creating scoring opportunities for teammates.

However, Tottenham’s overall inconsistency this season has limited the team’s ability to fully maximise his strengths.

Changes in management and tactical adjustments have also created an environment in which several players are reassessing their long-term prospects at the club.

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“What i can say…”: Fabrizio Romano drops major update on “electric” Man United target

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Relegation could have serious consequences for Spurs

If Tottenham fail to survive the drop, a mass exodus is practically guaranteed. Spurs currently sit just a single point above the bottom three.

Simons is reportedly the club’s highest earner, taking home an estimated £195,000-a-week—a wage packet that would be completely unsustainable in the Championship.

While his current contract runs until 2030, elite European clubs are already closely monitoring the situation.

Ultimately, Simons’ immediate future is entirely intertwined with Tottenham’s desperate survival bid over the next two months.

If Igor Tudor cannot immediately right the ship and Spurs suffer the unthinkable humiliation of relegation, the young playmaker’s Premier League adventure will likely end before it ever truly found its footing.

Tottenham duo ‘targeted by supporters’ will lead massive summer exodus

The post Midfielder could leave Tottenham after just one season in North London appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City are reportedly progressing in their pursuit of Newcastle United right-back Tino Livramento, with the Premier League champions identifying the England international as their leading target to strengthen the defensive flank.

According to Football Insider, City are working toward a potential agreement that could see the 23-year-old move to the Etihad Stadium this summer.

No deal has been finalised, but sources suggest the transfer could reach around £70 million if negotiations advance.

City’s interest shows their ongoing effort to secure a long-term successor to former captain Kyle Walker, whose influence on the team has gradually diminished as he enters the latter stages of his career.

Livramento has been a huge hit at Newcastle United

Livramento has enjoyed an impressive campaign at Newcastle United, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic young full-backs.

Since arriving at St. James’ Park, the England international has demonstrated the pace, defensive awareness, and attacking ability that have made him one of the league’s best players in his position.

Livramento’s performances have been particularly notable for his versatility. While naturally a right-back, he has also shown the ability to operate on the opposite flank when required, providing versatility that modern top clubs value highly.

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Man City are looking for a long term solution

Man City’s interest in Livramento stems from their desire to refresh the right side of defense.

Kyle Walker played a pivotal role during the most successful period in the club’s history, contributing to multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph under Pep Guardiola.

Despite Walker leaving the club, City’s recruitment team has been searching for a long-term replacement capable of maintaining the team’s defensive balance and attacking width.

Livramento’s pace and technical ability make him an attractive option for Guardiola’s tactical system, which often requires full-backs to contribute both in defensive transitions and in possession.

Man City linchpin edges closer to summer exit with no contract talks scheduled 

The post Man City closing in on the signing of £70 million Newcastle United star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United have reportedly identified PSG winger Bradley Barcola as one of the leading candidates to strengthen their attack this summer, as the club prepares for a potential reshuffle on the left wing.

The French winger has been added to United’s shortlist of attacking targets, with the club anticipating a major change in the position following the likely permanent departure of Marcus Rashford to Barcelona, as reported by a source on X.

United’s recruitment team is already evaluating options capable of filling the gap left by Rashford, who has spent part of the season on loan at the Catalan club and is expected to complete a permanent move in the coming months.

Barcola’s rapid rise at PSG has not gone unnoticed

Barcola has emerged as one of the most exciting young attackers in European football over the past two seasons.

The 23-year-old winger built his reputation in Ligue 1 with Lyon before continuing his development after a move to Paris Saint-Germain, where he has impressed with his pace, technical ability, and direct attacking style.

Barcola is particularly known for his ability to take on defenders in one-on-one situations.

His dribbling, acceleration, and creativity in the final third have made him a dangerous outlet on the left flank, while his growing goal contribution has further enhanced his reputation.

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Why Man United are looking for a new winger

Rashford’s expected move to Barcelona has accelerated United’s search for a new wide attacker.

Rashford has been a central figure at Old Trafford for years, but his likely exit means the club must now find a player capable of replicating his pace and goal threat from the left side of the attack.

Barcola’s age and skill set make him an appealing option. United’s recruitment strategy in recent windows has focused on signing younger players with high potential and resale value, and the French international fits that profile perfectly.

Left-back on Man United radar to replace Luke Shaw favours move to Liverpool 

The post Man United target pacey Frenchman as Rashford nears permanent Barcelona move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are facing a critical situation regarding the future of Ibrahima Konaté, with the French defender attracting growing interest from several of Europe’s top clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.

Negotiations over a new contract at Anfield have reportedly stalled, placing the centre-back’s long-term future in doubt, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

With Konaté now entering the final months of his current deal, the uncertainty surrounding his situation has intensified speculation across Europe.

Clubs such as Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Milan are closely monitoring developments, aware that the opportunity to sign a defender of his calibre could soon become available.

Liverpool working to keep their defensive leader

Liverpool’s hierarchy are reportedly determined to keep the 26-year-old at the club and have already presented their most lucrative salary proposal to date in an attempt to convince him to stay.

The club’s leadership wants clarity on the situation as soon as possible, hoping to avoid a prolonged saga that could extend deep into the summer window.

Keeping Konaté is seen internally as a priority, particularly as Liverpool continue reshaping their squad for the next phase of their project.

The French defender has been desrcribed as ‘outstanding‘ by club captain Virgil Van Dijk.

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Europe’s elite show interest in the French defender

Real Madrid have reportedly placed Konaté high on their defensive shortlist as they plan for the future of their back line.

Inter Milan are also believed to be exploring a move as part of their defensive rebuild. With experienced defenders Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi expected to depart as free agents, the
Italian club are seeking younger options capable of leading their defence in the coming years.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain continue to monitor the situation closely, though reports suggest the player may favour a move elsewhere in Europe if he leaves England.

Liverpool remain eager to secure his long-term commitment, but interest from some of Europe’s most powerful clubs ensures the situation remains far from straightforward.

Liverpool handed major blow before Galatasaray clash as key player is ruled out

The post Sources: Inter Milan, Real Madrid and PSG ready to battle for ‘outstanding’ Liverpool star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham are reportedly preparing to sack interim manager Igor Tudor after a disastrous start that has left the club in a desperate fight for Premier League survival.

Just three weeks into his tenure, the Croatian is facing the sack following three consecutive defeats against Arsenal, Fulham, and Crystal Palace.

The hierarchy at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is growing increasingly panicked, with the club now sitting just one point above the relegation zone.

With only nine games remaining to save their season, the board is considering a ruthless second managerial change.

Tottenham have a clear shortlist in place to replace Igor Tudor

Prominent insider on X has reported that the club is already looking beyond Tudor.

In a post on X, he stated:

“Spurs have a clear shortlist in place to replace Igor Tudor as manager. Spurs cannot get relegated. It would be the worst thing that has ever happened to the club.”

While Tudor is expected to lead the team for Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, he is on the brink of being sacked.

Tottenham are reportedly eyeing a manager who can provide an immediate impact to avoid dropping into the Championship for the first time since 1977.

Tudor has failed to clean up Thomas Frank’s mess

Tudor was appointed mid-Feb to steady the ship following the sacking of Thomas Frank, who left the club in 16th place after a dismal run in 2026.

However, the club has overseen an even worrying decline under Tudor.

The new Spurs boss has struggled with player unrest, reportedly banishing five senior players from training, while his tactical decisions have been questioned by pundits.

Having inherited a team winless in the league since late December, Tudor has failed to pick up a single point, making him one of the statistically worst managerial appointments in the club’s history.

Who should Tottenham bring in next?

At the top of the club’s shortlist is former Brighton and Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi.

Reports suggest that Spurs have already held talks with the Italian, who is currently a free agent.

While De Zerbi is also a primary target for Manchester United, Tottenham hope the lure of an immediate return to London and the challenge of a rebuild will entice him.

However, it is understood that De Zerbi will only commit to the role if Spurs can guarantee their Premier League status, a task that looks more difficult with every passing week.

Perhaps Spurs should turn to recently sacked Sean Dyche, who has built a reputation for stepping in at relegation-threatened clubs and steering them to survival.

The post ‘Shortlist in place’ – Tottenham set for second managerial change as club prepares drastic action appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Frenkie de Jong has been one of Barcelona‘s most notable absentees over recent weeks, forcing coach Hansi Flick to lean heavily on his younger midfield options. With the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 now just around the corner, De Jong will remain sidelined, as his recovery timeline has now been confirmed.

The issue dates back to late February, when De Jong was forced to cut short a Barcelona training session with what was later confirmed to be a strain of the distal hamstring in his right leg. Concern quickly mounted over how long the Dutch midfielder would be out, with the injury count now standing at three matches missed: Villarreal, Atlético Madrid and last weekend’s clash with Athletic Club.

Speaking to ESPN, Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman addressed De Jong’s situation and provided a clearer picture of when he can be expected back. “Frenkie de Jong will be out for approximately six weeks. Sometimes I think it might be good for someone to be out for six weeks so that they get less tired,” said Koeman, effectively ruling him out of the upcoming March international window squad.

With a recovery timeline pointing to early April, De Jong will miss not only Barcelona’s Champions League Round of 16 series against Newcastle United but also the Netherlands’ March friendlies against Norway on the 27th and Ecuador on the 31st. “Even so, we have to wait for him to regain his fitness once he returns,” he added.

With Pedri back from his own muscle injury, Flick has been experimenting with how to cover De Jong’s role, with Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal competing for the position. Between the first leg at St. James’ Park on March 10 and the second leg at the Camp Nou on the 18th, the German coach will have to navigate a critical stretch of the season without one of the club’s key figures and captains.

De Jong not the only key absence against Newcastle United

De Jong has been a pivotal contributor this season with 31 appearances, one goal and seven assists, but it is worth noting that Barcelona have won all 10 matches in which he has been absent, suggesting the squad has shown it can cope without him. Even so, he is just one piece of a much larger injury puzzle heading into the Newcastle tie.

The most recent and significant blows came in the Copa del Rey semifinal against Atlético Madrid, where both Jules Koundé and Alejandro Baldé were forced off. Koundé suffered an injury to the middle third of the biceps femoris in his left thigh and is expected to miss several weeks.

In Baldé’s case, the left back sustained a distal biceps femoris injury in his left thigh, with a recovery timeline of approximately four weeks. Andreas Christensen, meanwhile, remains unavailable and is not expected to feature again until next season. The biggest wildcard is Gavi, who has recently returned to training after tearing the internal meniscus of his right knee in late September, but whether he will be fit enough to feature against Newcastle remains very much in the air.

The Finalissima, a generational showdown that would see Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal compete for a trophy, is now fewer than three weeks from its originally scheduled date, with its venue thrown into serious doubt by the ongoing situation in Qatar. With a decision expected in the coming days, the president of the Spain Football Federation has indicated that the game against Argentina is most likely to be relocated from Doha.

The match had been set for Friday, March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, following an agreement between CONMEBOL and UEFA. But the ongoing regional conflict has forced the parties involved to act quickly, with both confederations firmly opposed to postponing the game and finding an alternative date.

Speaking on Cadena SER’s El Larguero program, RFEF president Rafael Louzán addressed the prospect of keeping the game in Qatar directly: “I think that’s very unlikely. We have already canceled two charters that were scheduled for the trip four days ago. This agreement is with UEFA and CONMEBOL through a company that has contracted six football matches: Spain-Argentina, Spain-Egypt, Argentina-Qatar, Saudi Arabia-Serbia, and one more.”

Louzán was referring to the Qatar Football Festival 2026, which had been scheduled to run from March 26 to 31 before being canceled amid the situation in the country. “It was all part of the same package, and it’s a matter we’re going to decide in the coming hours. We signed a contract that, from an economic standpoint, was very lucrative for the Spanish Federation,” he added.

“A decision will be made within 48 hours. I hope that through our negotiations with UEFA and others, we reach a reasonable agreement that is well-received by the majority,” Louzán concluded, setting a clear timeline for when the Finalissima’s fate will be determined.

Where will the Finalissima be held?

As soon as Qatar’s viability as a host came into question, a number of alternatives quickly surfaced, including Hard Rock Stadium in Miami and MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, given Messi‘s enormous following in the region. Those options lost traction relatively quickly, however, with Estádio da Luz in Lisbon emerging as one of the leading candidates.

Spain was also floated as a possibility, with both the Metropolitano and the Santiago Bernabéu mentioned as potential venues. Louzán addressed that option directly: “First of all, even if we could offer Spain, there is also Argentina to consider. This is a match that should be played at a neutral venue. I think it’s clear that it appears it should be in Europe.“

The federation president then laid out the reasoning that points toward a European solution. “I believe it will be in Europe because, ultimately, if circumstances lead us there, the majority of the players—both Spanish and Argentine—are based in Europe. Therefore, it seems logical that this is what will end up happening,” he concluded.

While Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski have each seen their 2025-26 seasons disrupted by injury, Lamine Yamal has stepped up as Barcelona‘s undisputed main man. But according to head coach Hansi Flick, there is another Blaugrana star, neither the Brazilian nor the Pole, who is currently operating at the same level as the teenage sensation.

Yamal has once again raised the bar, leading Barcelona in both goals (19) and assists (15) this season, making it comfortably his most prolific campaign to date. Flick has consistently leaned on his younger players over the course of the season, and with the UEFA Champions League now the primary focus, he has spoken glowingly about the growth of his youthful core.

Ahead of the match against Newcastle United, Flick was asked how he manages a squad increasingly driven by young talent while coping with the absences of veterans like Raphinha, Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, and even Ronald Araujo. “We speak about a young team. Pau Cubarsi is now 19, Marc Bernal is 18, Lamine is 18, Fermin (Lopez) is 21, and this quality that they have is unbelievable. For me, they should enjoy the games, and they should improve in every game, and they do it,” he said on Monday’s press conference.

Reflecting on a run of four consecutive wins, including the 3-0 victory over Atlético Madrid and last Saturday’s 1-0 win at Athletic Club, Flick singled out one young player for special praise: “The match against Bilbao, the match against Atletico, it’s amazing for me to see how Cuba (Cubarsi) is defending. We speak a lot, because sometimes I say to him ‘Hey, come on, you’re a little bit lazy ok? You have to be focused.’“

The German coach then delivered a striking assessment of the teenager’s standing within the squad. “But he’s young. He’s 19 years old, but que has a huge quality. For me, as a defender, he’s on the same level as Lamine, and it’s amazing to have him. He is 19 years old and can play at the highest level he can imagine,” he candidly stated.

Cubarsí has indeed established himself as one of the most important players in Flick’s setup despite his age. Having turned 19 in January, the technically gifted Spanish center-back has already made 116 appearances for Barcelona, becoming the youngest player in club history to reach 100 games, a record surpassed only, fittingly, by Yamal himself.

Yamal and some Barcelona youngsters on the verge of suspension

Having been eliminated from the Copa del Rey in the semifinals by Atlético Madrid, Barcelona are now fully focused on the one major trophy that eluded them last season: the Champions League. The Blaugrana have traveled to England for the first leg of the Round of 16 against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, but the game comes with a significant disciplinary subplot.

Heading into Tuesday’s match, Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, Gerard Martín and Marc Casadó are all one booking away from a suspension. Each has already accumulated four yellow cards in the competition, meaning a single caution would rule them out of the second leg at the Camp Nou on Wednesday, March 18. With Yamal, López and Martín all regarded as key starters, the stakes of staying disciplined could hardly be higher.

Tottenham Hotspur’s hierarchy have identified two prominent first-team stars, Guglielmo Vicario and Pedro Porro, as the primary candidates to be sold this summer.

According to a report from The Telegraph, the club is prepared to sanction their departures if their respective valuations are met, as part of a radical squad overhaul aimed at changing the culture at the club.

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The decision follows a disastrous 11-match winless run that has left Spurs teetering just one point above the Premier League relegation zone.

With the club needing to balance the books and fund a massive rebuild under a new permanent head coach, the sale of these high-value assets is seen as a financial necessity.

Tottenham to sell Vicario and Pedro Porro

Despite both players being regular starters, Spurs feels that moving them on is the best way to reset the squad, with both being ‘targeted by supporters’ this season.

The sales would generate significant capital, with Vicario valued at approximately £25 million and Porro expected to command a fee in excess of £50 million.

While both have been key players in the past, the hierarchy is now prioritising players who are fully committed to a long-term project, especially if the club suffers the unthinkable prospect of relegation to the Championship.

Vicario keen on leaving Tottenham as well

Vicario is said to be open to a move away as well, with reports suggesting that the Italian is keen on a return to his homeland.

Several Serie A clubs have shown interest in signing him, including Inter Milan, Juventus, and Roma, who all are monitoring his situation.

In fact, the player’s camp have already held talks with Juventus as per reports.

Pedro Porro has fallen out with the Tottenham fans

Pedro Porro’s future has also come under scrutiny following a breakdown in his relationship with the Spurs faithful.

The Spanish full-back has been the target of intense criticism and booing from fans during recent home matches at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Most notable, Porro was involved in a heated confrontation with the travelling supporters following a devastating 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth.

Barcelona have been linked with the player recently, while Manchester City have also expressed interest in the Spurs right-back.

Should Spurs decide to sell him, there will be no shortage of suitors.

The post Tottenham duo ‘targeted by supporters’ will lead massive summer exodus appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabio Grosso admits Sassuolo are ‘ahead of schedule’ this season, but a lack of maturity was evident in the ‘naïve errors’ for their 2-1 defeat to Lazio.

The Neroverdi had won five of their previous six Serie A matches, losing only to leaders Inter, and had the opportunity with a win here to leapfrog Bologna into eighth place.

They had recovered from the shocking start of a Daniel Maldini goal after 80 seconds, drawing level through Armand Laurienté, but were undone deep into stoppages.

Goalkeeper Arijanet Muric mistimed the run off his line, not for the first time this season, and allowed Adam Marusic to nod a Matteo Cancellieri cross into the empty net.

Grosso sees room for Sassuolo improvement

“Our initial approach wasn’t right, but there is an issue of maturity that requires certain steps in the process, and we are very much ahead of schedule this season,” Grosso told Sky Sport Italia.

“If we managed to be consistent too, then we’d be even higher up the table. We reacted to the opening goal, started the second half well too, but we lost intensity in the closing stages. It was more psychological than physical, especially after wasting two big chances, then making naïve errors.

“It would’ve been important to bring home at least a point, as Lazio might be having difficulties, but they remain a very strong team. They were able to bring on fresh legs in attack that made the difference.”

Andrea Pinamonti was suspended today, so M’Bala Nzola had his first start for Sassuolo, but some substitutes didn’t provide the boost that they needed.

“We certainly could’ve done better. I usually don’t change the two full-backs, but Coulibaly was struggling for fitness, while Garcia had just been booked and Lazio were pushing hard on those duels down the flanks, so I didn’t want us to go down to 10 men,” explained Grosso.

“That meant I couldn’t use those two substitutions to change in attack. It’s a pity, we had some big chances just moments before conceding the last goal. When we are not at full intensity, teams with this kind of quality will make it count.

“It’s a pity we conceded that goal at the end, we go back home with a bitter taste in our mouths. We must remember that if we’re not pushing to the max, a side like ours will drop points.”

It is still an extraordinarily positive season for Sassuolo, who were only promoted from Serie B last summer, as they remain in ninth place, just one point behind local rivals Bologna.

“We have a mix of different nationalities and cultures, plus some Italians who have done so much in the past, one of them winning the Euros, many youngsters who are growing. We have an interesting combination.”

Grosso was of course the man who scored the decisive penalty to give Italy the 2006 World Cup, beating France in the Final, so what advice does he have for the Azzurri preparing for the play-offs?

“I think you need the right balance between healthy fear of a big occasion and the clear-headed approach to enjoy the football. It’s been too long since we’ve been away from the World Cup, so we all hope to do our part by cheering on the team.”

Maurizio Sarri confirms two new injuries for Lazio in their last-gasp victory over Sassuolo, but warns ‘the club has to take some initiative’ to end the fan boycott and reinforce the squad.

The Biancocelesti had just two points in their last four Serie A games and were coming off Wednesday’s dramatic 2-2 Coppa Italia semi-final draw with Atalanta.

They took just 80 seconds to break the deadlock here today with Daniel Maldini, cancelled out by an Armand Laurienté strike, but in stoppages Adam Marusic flicked in the Matteo Cancellieri cross to beat the rather wayward Arijanet Muric.

Sarri frustrated at Lazio difficulties

“There were some ups and downs during the match, but even without some important players, then losing Romagnoli and Cataldi too, the lads had a great final half-hour with real heart. I think the win was fully deserved, even if we left it late,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.

Some of Sarri’s changes were forced, as Danilo Cataldi went off with a muscular issue in the first half, then Alessio Romagnoli was replaced at half-time over a fitness issue.

“Cataldi felt his calf muscle harden, but it was caused by something else that we’ll identify tomorrow. Romagnoli had a similar issue, caused by a knock he sustained against Atalanta.”

Debutant goalkeeper Edoardo Motta made a double save at 1-1, giving some reassurance after Ivan Provedel’s season was ended by shoulder surgery.

“This is a team that can have the right attitude, every now and then we get it wrong, but not that often. We’ve had to deal with enormous difficulties and some of them are still going, as playing in an empty stadium is depressing, but the players have reacted well to that too.”

The atmosphere in the Stadio Olimpico remains a worrying situation, because the boycott continues from the ultras in protest at President Claudio Lotito, so there were only 5,000 people in the stands.

It is the fourth home game in a row with this boycott, so how can the supporters be convinced to come back?

“I think the club has to take some initiative to bring them back, because this is too much of a difficult situation for us,” replied Sarri.

“I am not a director, but this situation has been dragging on for a while, so they know more than me. They will know better than me how and where to intervene.”

The coach said many times he only stayed at Lazio because he made a promise to the fans, so how does he see his future at the club?

“I don’t know, as soon as the season ends and we’ll have a few meetings, then I’ll be able to tell you. A team that has to be up to the standards of the history of this club must be reinforced, that’s for sure,” concluded Sarri.

“If I stayed only for the fans, then right now even I don’t know why I’m still here, because the fans aren’t here either,” the coach added in a press conference.

This result means that Lazio climb back ahead of Udinese into the top 10, and are within a point of Sassuolo in ninth.

There are new reports in Spain that Real Madrid are tracking Como coach Cesc Fabregas, putting his name on the shortlist for the Bernabeu job next season.

According to pundit Jorge Picon on El Desmarque, Fabregas is one of the coaches who have particularly impressed the Real Madrid chiefs.

They appreciate his working style, his communication tactics, and believe he could be a serious candidate to take over next term.

Alvaro Arbeloa is currently the interim manager for Real Madrid, after Xabi Alonso was sacked in January.

Fabregas eager to stay at Como, but if Real Madrid call…

This could well be one of the only offers that could tempt him to walk away from the project at Como, where he is currently in joint fourth place in Serie A alongside Roma.

He has taken then from Serie B to challenging for Champions League qualification, along with a place in the Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter, in just two years.

Fabregas is only 38 years of age, but was a product of the Barcelona youth academy, also spending time at Arsenal, Chelsea and AS Monaco before retiring at Como in 2023.

He went straight into management and helped them earn promotion from Serie B to the top flight, along with significant financial backing from the club’s Indonesian owners.

That included signing Nico Paz, who has a buy-back clause at Real Madrid that the club is eager to use.

¿Qué entrenadores sondea el Real Madrid para la 26/27?@JorgeCPicon analiza varios nombres… y ¡suelta una bomba!

"Están siguiendo muy de cerca a Cesc Fàbregas".

En #ElDesmarket, con @Rafa9Mainez.

https://t.co/Hbxp19PI5e pic.twitter.com/SY2dtnsj4g

— ElDesmarque (@eldesmarque) March 9, 2026

Mauricio Pochettino is expected to attend Tuesday night’s Champions League first-leg tie between Atletico Madrid and Tottenham, according to The Athletic.

The former Spurs boss, now the head coach of the United States Men’s National Team, will be an official guest of Atletico at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

While his presence will undoubtedly spark speculation, Pochettino’s visit is primarily a scouting mission.

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He is reportedly keeping a “watching brief” over USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso, who joined Atletico Madrid from Real Betis in July 2025 and has recently established himself as a key figure in Diego Simeone’s midfield.

This will mark the first time Pochettino has watched his former club from the stands since his departure in 2019.

Mauricio Pochettino is strongly linked with Tottenham return

Pochettino’s return to a Tottenham fixture comes at a time of immense turmoil for the North London club.

Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League and are facing a genuine threat of relegation.

Despite his commitments to the USMNT ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Pochettino remains a figure of intense interest for the Tottenham hierarchy.

Reports suggest that he is among the top candidates to take the permanent role this summer, regardless of which division the club finds itself in.

While the ‘world-class‘ Argentine is focused on the World Cup for now, Pochettino remains linked with a dream return as permanent manager in the summer.

Tottenham were the strongest under Pochettino

The sight of Pochettino in the stands serves as a stark reminder of how far Tottenham have fallen.

Between 2014 and 2019, Pochettino oversaw the most successful period in the club’s modern history, transforming them into consistent Champions League participants and title contenders.

Under his guidance, Spurs reached the 2019 Champions League Final, coincidentally held at Atletico’s stadium, and achieved their highest Premier League finish of second in 2017.

Mauricio Pochettino’s stats as Tottenham manager via Transfermarkt

Since his sacking seven years ago, the club has cycled through multiple managers without recapturing that same identity or stability.

As they prepare to face Atletico tonight with their season hanging by a thread, many fans view the Pochettino era as the benchmark the club has failed to meet ever since.

The post ‘World-class’ manager linked with Tottenham job will be in attendance to watch Spurs take on Atletico appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Barcelona have been tasked by Hansi Flick to show they can deal with the spending power of “the best league in the world” when they face Newcastle United on Tuesday. The LaLiga leaders make the trip to St. James’ for the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie, with this the second meeting […]

The post Barcelona out to show they can handle ´best league in the world´, says Flick appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Barcelona out to show they can handle ´best league in the world´, says Flick appeared first on Soccer News.

Eddie Howe has challenged his Newcastle United players to seize the moment and follow in the footsteps of the side who defeated Barcelona in 1997. Newcastle are preparing to welcome Barcelona to St. James’ Park in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Tuesday. It is the second time the two […]

The post Howe urges Newcastle to create Champions League history against Barcelona appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Howe urges Newcastle to create Champions League history against Barcelona appeared first on Soccer News.

Givanildo Vieira de Souza, better known as Hulk, has cemented himself as one of the most iconic figures in Brazilian soccer over recent years, recently reaching the milestone of 450 career goals. But the veteran forward found himself at the center of a very different kind of headline after the Atlético Mineiro-Cruzeiro clash descended into chaos, resulting in a staggering 23 red cards.

The two Minas Gerais rivals met on Sunday in the Campeonato Mineiro final at the Estádio Governador Magalhães Pinto. With the regional title on the line, Cruzeiro broke the deadlock in the 60th minute when Kaio Jorge connected with a header from a Gerson cross, scoring what would prove to be the only goal of the match.

With the game approaching its final moments, Matheus Pereira tried his luck from distance, forcing a save from goalkeeper Éverson that produced a slight rebound. Christian moved in to follow up, but the keeper got to the ball and collided with him in the process, and that contact was all it took to ignite a mass brawl that would result in 23 players being sent off.

When the dust had settled, Atlético Mineiro had 11 players dismissed: Éverson, G. Delfim, Á. Preciado, Lyanco, R. Tresoldi, Junior Alonso, R. Lodi, A. Franco, M. Cassierra, Hulk and A. Minda. Cruzeiro had 12 shown red cards: Kaio Jorge, Fagner, F. Bruno, J. Marcelo, L. Villalba, K. Prates, Christian, L. Romero, M. Henrique, Wallace, Gerson and C. Ramos.

Hulk’s message after the incident

With staff members from both clubs and security personnel forced to intervene, Cruzeiro ultimately celebrated the Campeonato Mineiro title for the first time since 2019, claiming the competition’s 39th crown and closing the gap on Atlético Mineiro’s record of 50 titles. In defeat, Hulk took to social media to address what had unfolded:

“What happened in yesterday’s match does not represent the values that football should convey. Rivalry is part of the sport, but respect must always come before any emotion. I apologize to everyone who was at the stadium, to those watching on television, and especially to the children who look to football for inspiration. What we saw on the pitch is not the example we want to set,” the Brazil icon wrote on an Instagram story.

“I take responsibility for my part in what happened and I regret that moment. I am certain that many of the athletes involved are men of character, fathers, and responsible people who never step onto the pitch with the intention of hurting anyone. We made a mistake, but we also need to recognize when we are wrong and learn from it. May this episode serve as a reflection for all of us. We move forward now, respecting the game of football and everyone who loves this sport,” he added.

What is the record for red cards in a single soccer game?

Under soccer’s rules, if a team receives enough red cards to reduce their number of players on the pitch below seven, the match is suspended and awarded to the opposing side. Given that the brawl erupted near the final whistle, the referee blew for full time before that threshold was reached, but Sunday’s match came alarmingly close to setting a historic mark.

The Guinness World Record for the most red cards in a single soccer game belongs to the match between Club Atlético Claypole and Victoriano Arenas, in which 36 players were sent off. The game took place at Estadio Rodolfo Capocasa on February 27, 2011, in an Argentine Primera D fixture, the fifth tier of the country’s soccer pyramid.

In what was later described as a “generalized brawl,” all 36 players involved in the match, 18 from each side, were dismissed. Argentina has held that unenviable record ever since, and given the circumstances required to produce it, it is a mark that is unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon.

Mauricio Pochettino has managed to silence the criticism, turning the USMNT into one of the most interesting projects in CONCACAF. After betting on young players, he has managed to lead a new era in the national team that looks promising ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Despite this, the Argentine could be tempted to leave after the tournament. Taking advantage of his contractual situation, a top LaLiga team is reportedly interested in his arrival.

According to Rodra on ESPN, Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as a strong candidate to become Real Madrid’s next head coach as Álvaro Arbeloa has never been considered as a permanent option. After his spell at Tottenham Hotspur, president Florentino Pérez continues to keep him among his top priorities, especially since he previously coached Kylian Mbappé during his time at PSG, which is seen as a key factor behind the interest.

Even though he is currently managing the United States Men’s National Team, his future there is not guaranteed after the 2026 World Cup, as his contract expires in June 2026. Because of this, the Argentine would not face many obstacles in joining Los Blancos after the anticipated tournament. However, he has also been linked with a possible return to Tottenham Hotspur, as they have struggled to find stability in their sporting project.

Far from any certainty regarding Pochettino’s arrival at Real Madrid or Tottenham, the Argentine coach has not yet received a formal offer, keeping these opportunities speculative. With this uncertainty, Mauricio could still have a chance to remain the head coach of the USMNT if he delivers a strong performance in the 2026 World Cup. Despite these rumors, he remains focused on the tournament, viewing it as a pivotal opportunity in his career.

Not only Pochettino: Real Madrid reportedly eye other coach options

Following the departure of Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid have remained in search of world-class coaches with significant experience. Because of this, they have been linked with several names, with Mauricio Pochettino being the most recent to emerge. However, the Argentine is not a priority for the front office. With this in mind, Los Blancos reportedly maintain other alternatives to become head coach for the 2026–27 season.

As per Rodra on ESPN, Los Blancos keep Jürgen Klopp, Unai Emery, and Massimiliano Allegri as their priorities due to their European success. Nonetheless, President Florentino Perez keeps chasing a comeback of Zinedine Zidane, but he leads the race to become France’s head coach. For that reason, Real Madrid do not seem to have a clear path to define their permanent manager, opening the door also for Pochettino.

Lazio pounced on a goalkeeping error to punish on-form Sassuolo in stoppages with Adam Marusic, with a 2-1 victory that takes them into the top 10.

The Aquile were fresh off a 2-2 Coppa Italia semi-final draw with Atalanta on Wednesday, but lost goalkeeper Ivan Provedel for the season after shoulder surgery, joining Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot on the sidelines, so January signing Edoardo Motta made his Serie A debut. The Neroverdi won five of the last six games, losing only to Inter, and Andrea Pinamonti was suspended, with Nemanja Matic suffering from flu symptoms, plus Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca, Edoardo Pieragnolo and Fali Candé injured.

Lazio ultras continued to boycott the match in protest at President Claudio Lotito, so there were only 5,000 fans present.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

It took 80 seconds to break the deadlock, as Gustav Isaksen surged forward after a throw-in and forced the save from Arijanet Muric, but Daniel Maldini gathered the rebound, took a touch to send Woyo Coulibaly to ground, and walked it into the net from six yards.

Isaksen also robbed Ulisses Garcia to drill inches wide of the near post, then his glancing header flashed across the face of goal on a corner.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru failed to make the most of a cheap giveaway, but Sassuolo grew into the game and M’Bala Nzola’s angled drive took a double deflection off Alessio Romagnoli’s shin and debutant Motta’s fingertips to graze the far stick.

The equaliser was in the air and arrived at the end of a well-worked move, as Armand Laurienté combined with Kristian Thorstvedt to cut inside from the left and bend a ferocious right-foot finish into the far top corner from 14 yards.

Moments later, Danilo Cataldi limped off with a muscular issue and was replaced by Gil Patric in a relatively new role in front of the defence.

Maldini had penalty appeals rejected when he went shoulder-to-shoulder with Luca Lipani, but the hosts lost another big player at half-time when Alessio Romagnoli was forced off through injury.

Oliver Provstgaard immediately had to intercept the dangerous Coulibaly assist before Nzola could tap in, while Kenneth Taylor scuffed from a promising position when set up by Dele-Bashiru.

Mattia Zaccagni’s curler was too close to Muric, but Lazio really should’ve scored on 78 minutes. Isaksen timed the run perfectly to spring the offside trap on the Patric through ball and dinked it over the on-rushing goalkeeper, only to land on the roof of an empty net.

Moments later, debutant goalkeeper Motta needed a tough double save, first parrying the Laurienté strike and then doing better on the Josh Doig follow-up.

Muric got down for a one-handed save on the powerful Mattia Cancellieri curler, then also got his gloves to a Cancellieri cross-shot at the near post, pushing it away from Boulaye Dia.

Provstgaard nodded over from six yards on a free kick, but Lazio snatched the winner in stoppages. Cancellieri floated in a cross from the right and Muric came flailing out aimlessly, allowing Adam Marusic to flick the header backwards into the empty net from 10 yards.

Lazio 2-1 Sassuolo

Maldini 2 (L), Laurienté 35 (S), Marusic 92 (L)

09-03-2026 19:45

MatchDay 28

Stadio Olimpico

Lazio

Sassuolo

2 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

Daniel Maldini		2'
		35'		Armand Lauriente (Assist: Kristian Thorstvedt)
		37'		Luca Lipani

2nd half

		58'		Ulisses Garcia
		86'		Armand Lauriente
		88'		Sebastian Walukiewicz
Adam Marusic (Assist: Matteo Cancellieri)		90+2'

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

13

Total shots

7

5

Shots on target

4

6

Shots off target

1

2

Blocked shots

2

1

Corners

6

2

Offsides

3

7

Fouls

8

Lazio

Sassuolo

Starting lineups

40

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

77

Adam Marusic

Defender

13

Alessio Romagnoli

Defender

46'

34

Mario Gila

Defender

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

27

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

65'

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

38'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

79'

10

Mattia Zaccagni

Attacker

79'

49

Arijanet Muric

Goalkeeper

21

Jay Idzes

Defender

80

Tarik Muharemovic

Defender

23

Ulisses Garcia

Defender

68'

25

Woyo Coulibaly

Defender

68'

90

Ismaël Koné

Midfielder

83'

42

Kristian Thorstvedt

Midfielder

35

Luca Lipani

Midfielder

46'

45

Armand Lauriente

Attacker

10

Domenico Berardi

Attacker

8

M’Bala Nzola

Attacker

68'

Substitutes

29

Manuel Lazzari

Defender

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

55

Alessio Furlanetto

Goalkeeper

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

28

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

99

Giacomo Giacomone

4

Patric

Defender

38'

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

46'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

65'

9

Pedro

Attacker

79'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

79'

7

Cristian Volpato

Midfielder

19

Filippo Romagna

Defender

12

Giacomo Satalino

Goalkeeper

16

Gioele Zacchi

Goalkeeper

13

Stefano Turati

Goalkeeper

44

Edoardo Iannoni

Midfielder

40

Aster Vranckx

Midfielder

18

Nemanja Matic

Midfielder

46'

6

Sebastian Walukiewicz

Defender

68'

24

Luca Moro

Attacker

68'

3

Josh Doig

Defender

68'

50

Darryl Bakola

Midfielder

83'

Fabio Capello assured Milan can claw back the seven-point gap in the Scudetto race with Inter. ‘At Real Madrid, I recovered a nine-point deficit from Barcelona.’

The advantage had been 10 points until last night, when Pervis Estupinan’s strike sealed a 1-0 Milan victory over their city rivals.

Now the title race is opened up again, even if seven points with 10 rounds to go is still a significant hurdle to overcome.

Capello has faith in Milan title

“Inter still have a big advantage, but I think more than anything else it’s a psychological issue now,” said Capello in his role as pundit on Sky Sport Italia.

“In every match recently, Inter have alternated moments of great football with others of just exasperating slowness. This is what allows their opponents to cause problems for them.”

How can Cristian Chivu solve that lack of consistency and intensity in the Inter performances?

“They have to play with more humility and help each other out, something that I have not seen recently enough in the Inter matches,” added Capello.

Milan are now flying high ahead of the pack fighting for the top four and therefore have nothing really to lose, which the former Rossoneri coach feels could be significant.

“They’ve got a pretty good fixture list, so why not try to recover lost ground on first place? I managed it with Real Madrid, I recovered a nine-point deficit with Barcelona, precisely because they were resting on their laurels with such a big advantage.

“Inter need to be very wary of making that same mistake. The danger now is the players won’t have that same belief and focus.”

What would Capello say to the Milan players if he was in Allegri’s shoes?

“I think he should tell them that they’ve almost achieved their objective, so now it’s time to have some fun and enjoy themselves.

“I saw Inter looking so tepid, lacking grit and determination. I don’t know why, but Inter didn’t play the derby with the right attitude.

“I was surprised at how slowly the Nerazzurri moved the ball around. Perhaps they were missing Hakan Calhanoglu in midfield.”

Lautaro Martinez was out injured, but asked to be named among the substitutes just so he could be close to his teammates and sit on the bench throughout.

“Lautaro is a real captain, one of those figures who can shake up a team, run everywhere and work hard rather than just score goals. That grit is what Inter are missing right now,” added Capello.

Inter defender Yann Bisseck is keeping his eyes on the real prize, insisting he’d happily ‘take’ losing both Milan Derbies if it means celebrating the Scudetto.

The Nerazzurri are now seven points clear at the top of the Serie A table, but the gap had been 10 until last night’s 1-0 defeat to their city rivals.

Milan had not won both editions of the Derby della Madonnina in a single Serie A campaign since 2010-11, which is when they ended up taking the title under Max Allegri.

Bisseck wants silverware for Inter

They won both meetings with Inter 1-0 this season, so that gives them bragging rights, but Bisseck is keeping his eyes on the prize.

“If there is a game that we want to win, then it’s the derby, and we haven’t managed it for two years,” confessed the defender at a charity event this evening.

“However, if at the start of the season you tell me that we’ll lose two derbies, but then win the Scudetto, then I’ll take that.”

The title is not quite locked down yet, as Inter have a seven-point advantage with 10 games still to play.

“This is a good advantage to have, but 10 rounds are a lot, and we still have work to do.”

Bisseck had been tipped to make a move to the Premier League last summer, so is he happy with the offers that are bound to come in again?

“When you do well, there are many clubs who want you, but I am concentrated on Inter.”

Tottenham look set to sell club captain Cristian Romero at the end of the season as part of a massive squad overhaul aimed at changing the club’s culture.

Despite the defender’s central role in the team, The Telegraph reports that Spurs are planning to move on from several high-profile stars this summer to fund a significant rebuild.

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The decision comes at a critical time for the club, which has endured a disastrous domestic campaign that has left them embroiled in an unlikely Premier League relegation battle.

Tottenham believe selling Cristian Romero is ‘best for all parties’

While Romero remains a vital asset on the pitch, the report claims that senior figures at the club increasingly believe that a parting of the ways is ‘best for all parties’.

The Argentine international has cut a frustrated figure this season and has publicly expressed his unhappiness with the hierarchy over the club’s direction.

The report adds that finances also play a significant role in the decision. Chief executive Vinai Venkatesham warned in January that Tottenham are “not immune” from Profit and Sustainability Rules, noting that any major summer arrivals must be balanced by significant sales.

By cashing in on Romero, who is valued at over £60 million, Spurs would generate the necessary capital to reshape a squad that has underperformed under multiple managers.

Romero is wanted by Atletico Madrid

Romero is set to return to the starting lineup for tonight’s Champions League last-16 clash against Atletico Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

He has missed the last four Premier League matches due to suspension, but is eligible for European competition.

The fixture is being viewed as a potential ‘audition’ for the 27-year-old. Atletico manager Diego Simeone is a long-term admirer of his compatriot and is keen to bring him to the Spanish capital to lead his defense.

With Spurs currently sitting 16th in the Premier League, a move to a consistent Champions League contender like Atletico is expected to appeal to the World Cup winner, who is seeking a summer exit.

They could face strong competition from rivals Real Madrid, who too have been strongly linked with the World Cup winner.

Romero’s time at Tottenham

Romero joined Tottenham from Atalanta in 2021 and has since made 151 appearances, scoring 13 goals.

While his aggressive, front-foot defending made him a fan favorite, his disciplinary record has often left the team vulnerable.

As interim boss Igor Tudor fights to keep the club in the top flight, the looming summer exit of the club captain signals the end of an era and the beginning of a ruthless new chapter in North London.

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With the Champions League stealing all of the midweek headlines, the Round of 16 will get underway with a string of blockbuster battles from across the continent. As Newcastle welcome Barcelona to St. James’ Park for an iconic European showdown, Premier League strugglers Tottenham will once again come firmly under the microscope when they travel […]

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Arne Slot believes there was no better place to take charge of his 100th match for Liverpool than in the Champions League against Galatasaray. Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp at Anfield back in 2024, celebrates a century of games for the Reds at RAMS Park in the first leg of their last 16 clash on […]

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Manchester City will face Liverpool in the headline fixture of the FA Cup quarter-final draw, while giant-killing Port Vale make the trip to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea. City and Liverpool will meet for the first time in the competition since the 2021-22 semi-finals, a game Liverpool won at Wembley Stadium 3-2, thanks to […]

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The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, with just six spots remaining in the 48-team field to be decided during the March international window in matches hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada. But the playoff process has hit a significant snag, with Iraq formally requesting a postponement from FIFA.

The Iraqi national team was scheduled to travel to Monterrey, Mexico, to compete for a World Cup berth in an intercontinental playoff against the winner of the Suriname-Bolivia tie on March 31. However, a combination of logistical hurdles has put the trip in serious jeopardy, with players and staff unable to secure their visas and the Iraqi transport ministry closing the country’s airspace amid the ongoing tensions in the region.

Speaking to CNN, Iraq head coach Graham Arnold laid out the scope of the challenges his team is facing: “If the match is held in Mexico, we will face difficulties leaving Baghdad. About 60% of my players play inside Iraq, and all of the backroom staff live in Iraq. The medical staff live in Qatar, and we are currently facing difficulties obtaining Mexican visas.“

With the playoff being Iraq’s only scheduled March fixture, a preparation camp in Houston had been planned to help the squad adjust to the time zone, weather and conditions ahead of the game. That plan has since been scrapped entirely. “My first plan before all of this was to hold a small preparation camp in the United States to adapt to the time difference, the weather and the conditions there. But all of that has now been cancelled, as the preparation camp has been cancelled because we cannot leave Baghdad,” Arnold said.

With the Iraqi government’s airspace restrictions creating a hard deadline, FIFA and relevant authorities have been in ongoing communication to find a workable path forward: “The communication with FIFA officials has been very good, as well as with the federation. We are dealing with it step by step and day by day. It has been stressful, and there have been many sleepless nights as we try to organize the planning properly, but it is very difficult to do that while the airspace in Baghdad, where many of the players and staff are located, will not reopen until April 1.“

Alternatives still being weighed

With the Iraqi government showing no flexibility on the airspace closure, both FIFA and the national team are exploring alternatives to avoid a postponement that could create downstream complications for World Cup planning. One proposal put forward by the Iraqi federation itself is to push the March 31 playoff to the May/June window, immediately ahead of the tournament.

“I believe FIFA should make a quick decision on this matter, because the current situation is a little unfair considering what we will have to go through. If we cannot get there, Suriname can play against Bolivia, and we can play against the winner directly before the World Cup in America, so that we can prepare properly and do everything required to achieve success,” coach Arnold stated.

FIFA also floated an alternative of its own: traveling overland from Baghdad to Istanbul, Turkey, and then catching a connecting flight to Mexico. That option has not been well received within the Iraqi camp, with Arnold making clear he has no intention of putting his players through a 25-hour journey through areas directly affected by the conflict.

In the meantime, Bolivia and Suriname are set to play their semifinal on March 26 at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, a result that will determine Iraq’s potential opponent. With the playoff winner set to be placed in Group I alongside France, Senegal and Norway, FIFA and all parties involved are working against the clock to find a resolution, with fewer than four weeks remaining until the scheduled match date.

Liverpool are experiencing a season full of inconsistencies, also marked by injuries to several stars. Alongside this, Mohamed Salah appears to be pushing for a departure from the team following the drama surrounding his statements and other matters. Looking to replace the Egyptian and improve their attacking impact, the Reds are reportedly pursuing a star from the Saudi Pro League ahead of the 2026–27 season.

According to Fussball Daten, the Reds have decided to pursue the signing of Moussa Diaby and are maintaining constant contact with the player’s agents. Under contract with Al Ittihad until 2029, the Frenchman is valued at $46 million, but the fee may increase if more European sides chase his arrival. Liverpool could push for his arrival as a natural replacement for Mohamed Salah, targeting the 26-year-old winger.

While Diaby currently plays in the Saudi Pro League, he comes from having an excellent spell in the Premier League. In his tenure at Aston Villa, the Frenchman scored 10 goals and delivered 11 assists in 54 games, having a fairly solid performance. For this reason, Al Ittihad decided to pay €60 million for him, in the 2024–25 season where he has consolidated as one of the most important players, scoring 8 goals and delivering 29 assists in 61 games.

Given his strong performance, Moussa Diaby is drawing the attention of other major European clubs. According to Ekrem Konur, via X, formerly Twitter, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, and Chelsea are also pursuing his signing, complicating the Reds’ path. Despite this, the Frenchman would be a key starter at Liverpool, something that could sway him to join as Salah’s replacement.

Far from being a simple task, the Reds could find it quite difficult to secure the transfer of Moussa Diaby. Following the departure of Karim Benzema, the Frenchman has established himself as one of the team’s leaders, so they could put obstacles in the way of his signing. This would not be the first time, as the 26-year-old winger was close to leaving for Inter Milan in February 2026, but the PIF (Public Investment Fund) did not let him go.

Report: Liverpool chase an offensive rebuild for the next season

At the start of the 2025–26 season, Liverpool decided to overhaul their attack by letting Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz leave, making room for Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak. Despite these changes, the new additions have not delivered the expected performance, leaving Arne Slot with several problems. For that reason, they are reportedly pursuing other world-class reinforcements, not just Moussa Diaby.

According to various British media outlets, the Reds are open to letting Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah leave as they look to strengthen their attack with more dynamic players. For this reason, they are targeting Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig as a star reinforcement on the left wing, valued at €118 million. However, Liverpool may continue exploring additional options in attack to secure a better deal.

Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 41 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, when Al Nassr will be visiting Al Khaleej for Matchday 26 of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League at Al Khaleej Club Stadium. However, the Portuguese missed last game against Neom SC due to a hamstring injury suffered against Al Fayha, and it’s expected to be sidelined too.

Regarding the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return during the March international break. After having his suspension lifted ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the veteran forward will be available for selection for Portugal’s two friendlies, one against Mexico, and the other one against the USMNT.

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 22 goals and provided 4 assists in 26 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 965 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.

Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule

After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule.

From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final.

With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.

Former Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic could return to Serie A for Milan next season, claim reports, but he would need to significantly drop his Al-Hilal wages.

The Serbia international first shot to fame in Italian football with eight years in the Biancocelesti jersey, arriving from KRC Genk in the summer of 2015 for €12m and sold to Al-Hilal in 2023 for €40m.

Milinkovic-Savic has some Milan links already

He has been linked with a possible comeback to Serie A several times in recent years, and the latest suggestion is pushing him towards Milan.

This is because Max Allegri has long been an admirer of the 31-year-old, and it would represent a reunion with former Lazio director of sport Igli Tare, who is now running the transfer strategy at Milan.

According to Tuttosport and Calciomercato, the Rossoneri believe Milinkovic-Savic could bring something extra to their midfield, especially if they lock down Champions League qualification.

The big problem is that he only recently signed a new contract with Al-Hilal that runs to June 2028, and with it a salary worth circa €20m per season.

In order to make the move to Milan, he’d have to pick up roughly a quarter of that sum, plus some performance-related bonuses.

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Maurizio Sarri hit out at Lazio President Claudio Lotito after losing Ivan Provedel for the season and being forced to debut Edoardo Motta against Sassuolo. ‘I was totally against the sale of Christos Mandas.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

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

The Biancocelesti have been showing very different form in Serie A compared to the Coppa Italia, as they scraped one point from three league games, yet played a spectacular 2-2 semi-final first leg draw with Atalanta last Wednesday.

“We have such incredible differences in our statistics from Sunday to Wednesday, they are genuinely hard to explain,” shrugged the coach on Sky Sport Italia.

“It is all about the different attitude that the team had in those two games. It is a mistake to do that, we should always have great motivation, and I hope to see the version of Lazio tonight that we got on Wednesday.”

Sarri vents fury at Lazio transfer strategy

The injury crisis has dragged on throughout the campaign, but hit a new low when goalkeeper Provedel was ruled out for the rest of the season by shoulder surgery on a tendon tear.

It means Sarri has to give 21-year-old Motta his Serie A debut, having arrived in January from Reggina.

“It is certainly a major absence. I was totally against the decision to sell Mandas. Now we have a young lad with some qualities, we’ll see what he does on the field,” replied the coach.

He sent that message to President Lotito, who had loaned second-choice goalkeeper Mandas to Bournemouth in January for €1.5m with an option to buy for a further €18.5m.

However, Mandas made just one appearance this season for Lazio, in the Coppa Italia, and is yet to make his Bournemouth debut either.

Not many expected at the start of the season that in Week 28 this would be a mid-table tussle, with newly-promoted Sassuolo ahead and pushing for eighth place with a victory here.

Even if the Aquile win this evening, they won’t be able to close the gap completely and catch the Neroverdi in the table.

“I was more or less expecting Sassuolo to do this well, as they are a strong team, well-organised and had a clear identity from the start,” said Sarri.

The mood has not been helped by the ongoing boycott of the home matches, as ultras have been abandoning the Stadio Olimpico for the last four games in protest at President Lotito.

“It’s depressing, horrible, and it’s time the club does something about this,” added Sarri on DAZN Italia.

Italy international Federico Chiesa is not part of the Liverpool squad for the Champions League clash with Galatsaray, as Arne Slot explains his latest setback.

The first leg of the Round of 16 tie is going to be in Istanbul on Tuesday.

It is not a full squad making the trip as ex-Roma goalkeeper Alisson Becker and Italy’s Chiesa were left behind in Liverpool.

Chiesa struggling for playing time at Liverpool

“Federico was also not in the session, he felt unwell last night, so that’s why he wasn’t training with us today and not travelling with us,” explained coach Slot in his pre-match press conference.

As for Alisson, the shot-stopper felt a twinge towards the end of the training session and the medical staff decided it was better he stay home for this match.

Chiesa’s injury record has stalled his career badly and the last thing he needed was to add to the number of missed games with illness too.

The 28-year-old could be recalled by Gennaro Gattuso when Italy play the 2026 World Cup play-offs later this month.

He has made 29 competitive appearances for Liverpool so far this season, contributing three goals and three assists.

However, Chiesa was only in the starting XI for five of those fixtures.

Lazio begin life without Ivan Provedel and give Edoardo Motta his Serie A debut in goal, taking on Domenico Berardi’s ambitious Sassuolo, who could leap into eighth place.

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

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

This is a surprising mid-table tussle, because no matter the result this evening, newly-promoted Sassuolo will be ahead of the Aquile in the standings.

A home victory would close the gap to just one point and put Maurizio Sarri’s side in 10^th place, whereas a Neroverdi win would let them leapfrog Bologna into eighth position.

Lazio were involved in a midweek 2-2 Coppa Italia semi-final draw with Atalanta, twice fumbling the lead so that it all goes down to the second leg in Bergamo next month.

The big news over the last few days is that Provedel required surgery on a tendon in his shoulder and could well be out for the rest of the season.

It means January signing Edoardo Motta is thrown in at the deep end for his Serie A debut.

Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot are also out of action, so Fisayo Dele-Bashiru starts in midfield, with Daniel Maldini, Gustav Isaksen and Mattia Zaccagni upfront.

They scraped only two points from the last four Serie A games, and failed to score for three in a row in this competition.

The mood has not been helped by the ongoing boycott of the home matches, as ultras have been gathering outside the Stadio Olimpico to cheer on their team from there in protest at President Claudio Lotito.

Sassuolo are on fine form recently, winning five of the last six games, interrupted only by a defeat to leaders Inter.

Sebastian Walukiewicz returns from suspension, but Andrea Pinamonti sits out a ban instead.

Alieu Fadera is recovering after surgery on a fractured cheekbone he suffered during the 2-1 victory over Atalanta, which was achieved when down to 10 men for over an hour.

Daniel Boloca, Edoardo Pieragnolo and Fali Candé are all long-term absentees.

Instead, M’Bala Nzola steps into the attack with Domenico Berardi and Armand Laurienté, with ex-Roma midfielder Nemanja Matic rested.

Lazio vs. Sassuolo line-ups

Lazio: Motta; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares; Dele-Bashiru, Cataldi, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Zaccagni

Sassuolo: Muric; Coulibaly, Idzes, Muharemovic, Garcia; Koné, Lipani, Thorstvedt; Berardi, Nzola, Laurienté

09-03-2026 19:45

MatchDay 28

Stadio Olimpico

Lazio

Sassuolo

2 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

Daniel Maldini		2'
		35'		Armand Lauriente (Assist: Kristian Thorstvedt)
		37'		Luca Lipani

2nd half

		58'		Ulisses Garcia
		86'		Armand Lauriente
		88'		Sebastian Walukiewicz
Adam Marusic (Assist: Matteo Cancellieri)		90+2'

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

13

Total shots

7

5

Shots on target

4

6

Shots off target

1

2

Blocked shots

2

1

Corners

6

2

Offsides

3

7

Fouls

8

Lazio

Sassuolo

Starting lineups

40

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

77

Adam Marusic

Defender

13

Alessio Romagnoli

Defender

46'

34

Mario Gila

Defender

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

27

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

65'

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

38'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

24

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

79'

10

Mattia Zaccagni

Attacker

79'

49

Arijanet Muric

Goalkeeper

21

Jay Idzes

Defender

80

Tarik Muharemovic

Defender

23

Ulisses Garcia

Defender

68'

25

Woyo Coulibaly

Defender

68'

90

Ismaël Koné

Midfielder

83'

42

Kristian Thorstvedt

Midfielder

35

Luca Lipani

Midfielder

46'

45

Armand Lauriente

Attacker

10

Domenico Berardi

Attacker

8

M’Bala Nzola

Attacker

68'

Substitutes

29

Manuel Lazzari

Defender

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

55

Alessio Furlanetto

Goalkeeper

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

20

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

28

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

99

Giacomo Giacomone

4

Patric

Defender

38'

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

46'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

65'

9

Pedro

Attacker

79'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

79'

7

Cristian Volpato

Midfielder

19

Filippo Romagna

Defender

12

Giacomo Satalino

Goalkeeper

16

Gioele Zacchi

Goalkeeper

13

Stefano Turati

Goalkeeper

44

Edoardo Iannoni

Midfielder

40

Aster Vranckx

Midfielder

18

Nemanja Matic

Midfielder

46'

6

Sebastian Walukiewicz

Defender

68'

24

Luca Moro

Attacker

68'

3

Josh Doig

Defender

68'

50

Darryl Bakola

Midfielder

83'

Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has revealed that he is not currently in contract talks with the club, despite growing speculation regarding his long-term future at Anfield.

The Argentina World Cup winner, who has been a key part of the Liverpool midfield since arriving from Brighton in 2023, confirmed that no negotiations are currently underway to extend his stay on Merseyside.

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Mac Allister confirms Liverpool have yet to begin contract talks with him

Speaking about the situation ahead of the match against Galatasaray, Mac Allister remained calm regarding the lack of movement.

He said (via Fabrizio Romano): “We are not in contract talks with Liverpool. There are no negotiations over a new deal, but we are not in a rush.”

The 27-year-old’s current agreement runs until the summer of 2028, giving the club some breathing room.

However, the update comes at a time when Liverpool have been proactive in securing other key assets, such as Ryan Gravenberch, who recently signed a long-term extension until 2032.

Mac Allister’s father and agent, Carlos, echoed his son’s sentiments in a recent interview, noting that while the player is ‘happy’ at Liverpool, they are simply waiting for the club to make the first move.

The lack of formal discussions is reportedly a measured approach from the Liverpool hierarchy, who are currently balancing several high-profile contract situations, including Ibrahima Konate’s.

? Alexis Mac Allister: “We are not in contract talks with Liverpool. There are no negotiations over new deal, but we are not in a rush”. pic.twitter.com/YkEmTC3KTL

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 9, 2026

Mac Allister is a top target for Real Madrid

The delay in contract negotiations has inevitably alerted Real Madrid.

The Spanish giants are reportedly monitoring Mac Allister’s situation closely as they look to refresh their midfield following the departures of veteran stars.

Report suggests that Los Blancos are yet to replace the technical ability of Toni Kroos and Luca Modric and have identified Mac Allister as a top target.

With Real Madrid having already raided Anfield for Trent Alexander-Arnold in 2025, there are fears among the Liverpool faithful that the Argentine could be the next star to swap the Premier League for the Bernabéu.

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Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi will not be renewing his contract with the club, the Cherries’ director of football operations, Tiago Pinto, has officially confirmed.

The Argentine international, who has become a linchpin in Andoni Iraola’s backline since his move from Feyenoord in 2022, is now set to depart the Vitality Stadium as one of the most coveted free agents in European football this June.

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According to according to 365Scores (via MD), Tiago Pinto has confirmed that the player will be leaving the club on a free transfer:

“Senesi will become a free player next June and will officially leave the team at the end of his contract next summer. He will not have a future at the club, which means he will be out of the team’s plans for the new season.”

Marcos Senesi to leave Bournemouth a free agent amid interest from Chelsea

The announcement has sparked a frenzy among Europe’s elite, with Chelsea reportedly leading the Premier League interest.

Under head coach Liam Rosenior, the Blues are searching for ball-playing, experienced defenders to bolster their possession-based system.

Senesi, a left-footed center-back with over 100 Premier League appearances, is seen as a cost-effective solution to Chelsea’s defensive inconsistencies.

By securing Senesi, Chelsea would avoid a hefty transfer fee, allowing them to redirect funds toward other priority areas like a new striker.

Other Premier League clubs also interested including Tottenham and Newcastle

While Chelsea are circling, they face stiff competition within the English top flight. Tottenham and Newcastle United have both registered firm interest, with the Magpies reportedly believing they are “strong favorites” to keep the 28-year-old in England.

Spurs, currently navigating a difficult season under Igor Tudor, view Senesi as an essential target, specially with the future of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven uncertain. Aston Villa and Everton are also monitoring the situation closely.

Senesi would prefer a move to Barcelona

Despite the allure of staying in the Premier League, Senesi is reportedly interested in a move to Barcelona.

Reports from Spain suggest the Argentine prioritises a move to the Catalan giants, who are looking for an experienced, low-cost partner for their younger defenders.

While Juventus and Roma have also made contact, with Juve reportedly offering a four-year deal, the lure of La Liga and Hansi Flick’s project at Barcelona remains the player’s dream destination.

The post Club director confirms decision of Premier League star wanted by Chelsea and Tottenham appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Wayne Rooney has urged Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to ignore the “very unfair” criticism of the Premier League leaders’ style of play this season. Arsenal remain in contention for a potential quadruple after progressing to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup last weekend with a 2-1 win over League One side Mansfield Town. The Gunners […]

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Borussia Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken has confirmed that Julian Brandt will leave the club at the end of the 2025/26 season, closing out a seven‑year tenure at Signal Iduna Park. Ricken explained after Dortmund’s 2-1 win over FC Koln that “after open talks, we agreed that the contract that is set to expire would […]

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Cristiano Ronaldo had raised expectations for a highly anticipated return to North America ahead of the World Cup, with friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT on the schedule. But his injury situation has cast serious doubt over his availability, and the clock is now ticking after the date for Roberto Martínez to announce his Portugal squad was officially confirmed.

Alarm bells rang at Al Nassr after the club released a statement confirming that Ronaldo had suffered a hamstring injury during the match against Al Fayha, with no recovery timeline provided. The Portuguese star also missed the subsequent match against Neom SC and is expected to sit out further fixtures as he works to return to fitness ahead of the international window.

On Monday, the Portuguese Football Federation released a statement confirming that Martínez will announce his squad on Friday, March 20, at the Cidade do Futebol. That leaves Ronaldo fewer than two weeks to recover from his muscular injury and prove his fitness to the national team coach.

Portugal, who secured their place at the 2026 World Cup by topping Group F in UEFA qualifying, have organized a North American tour for the March international break, giving the squad an early look at the tournament’s host continent. The trip opens with a match against Mexico on Saturday, March 28, at Estadio Azteca Banorte.

The tour concludes with a game against the USMNT on Tuesday, March 31, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Portugal will then face Chile in a friendly on June 6 before their World Cup group stage debut on June 17.

Will Ronaldo recover in time?

The March window represents one of the final opportunities for Martínez to evaluate his options and refine the squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. It also carries extra significance as one of the last times Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to represent Portugal on the international stage, with the 41-year-old widely expected to retire from international duty after the tournament.

With that in mind, the desire to see Ronaldo on the pitch one more time on this stage runs deep, from the player himself to his teammates, staff and supporters. Whether that happens, however, will depend entirely on how his recovery progresses, with Al Nassr’s next scheduled match before the international window, set for Saturday March 14, already expected to come too soon for the striker.

As Fabrizio Romano recently reported, Ronaldo could be sidelined for up to four weeks with his muscle injury. With the setback occurring on February 28, the worst-case scenario would see him approaching the Mexico match on March 28 at the very tail end of his recovery period, likely still short of full match fitness.

Ahead of Al Nassr’s game against Neom, Ronaldo offered a public show of commitment, posting a message of support on Instagram: “Recovering and ready to watch the game today. Let’s go, Al Nassr!” The message signaled his determination to return as quickly as possible and put himself in contention for Martínez’s call-up.

After shining at Bayer Leverkusen, Real Madrid signed Xabi Alonso to lead the project after Carlo Ancelotti’s dismissal. However, he was fired just over five months after his arrival due to disappointing performances and reported dressing-room issues. Far from letting this define his career, Xabi appears ready to continue his coaching journey. In fact, he has reportedly reached an agreement to manage a major Premier League club for the 2026–27 season.

According to OK Diario, Xabi Alonso has already reached an agreement with Liverpool to become the team’s head coach for next season. Under the reported deal, he would sign a three-year contract. However, the Spaniard’s arrival would be linked to Arne Slot failing to win the UEFA Champions League this season. For that reason, he would begin a new chapter after his expected departure from Real Madrid, returning to the Reds.

Even though Alonso had a criticized spell at Real Madrid, he has already proven himself to be a world-class manager. After arriving at Bayer Leverkusen in 2022, he led the club to its best period in years, winning the 2023–24 Bundesliga, the 2023–24 DFB-Pokal, and the 2024–25 German Super Cup. For that reason, his potential arrival at Liverpool seems an ideal choice to boost the sports project that has suffered under Arne Slot.

Unlike his debut season, Arne Slot has struggled to achieve consistency with the Reds. In an effort to reshape the roster, he has battled to restore the team to its best form, currently ranking sixth in the Premier League. Consequently, the Dutchman’s future remains uncertain, hinging on a potential Champions League title victory. In this context, Xabi Alonso may be considered a necessary boost to propel the roster.

Xabi Alonso could unlock the potential of several Liverpool stars

After winning the 2024-25 Premier League, Arne Slot led a rebuild of the Liverpool roster. By betting on Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Florian Wirtz, they sought a decisive boost in the team’s offensive performance. However, the coach has failed to get the best out of them, compounded by the poor form of other stars. For this reason, Xabi Alonso’s potential arrival could be key to bringing out the best in several players.

During his time at Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi managed to elevate several players such as Jeremie Frimpong, Alejandro Grimaldo, Florian Wirtz, Exequiel Palacios, among others. With the Dutchman and the German now at the Reds, his arrival could be key to helping them reach their best level. Likewise, Ibrahima Konaté—if he renews his contract—could also be boosted, just as Alonso did with Jonathan Tah, something that seems unlikely under Slot.

Raffaele Palladino expects a ‘magical’ Champions League night against Bayern Munich, assuring Atalanta ‘don’t want to set limits on ourselves, all Italians are cheering us on.’

The first leg kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on Tuesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

La Dea are the only remaining Italian representatives in the Champions League and face a daunting task against German giants Bayern Munich.

Atalanta ready to dream big in Champions League

“Tomorrow will be a magical, wonderful night for us, as it’s a dream to be in the Champions League last 16 against one of the strongest teams in the world,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.

“Dreams are there to be experienced. We want to enjoy it to the full and cause difficulties for Bayern. We are playing at home, so can repeat the performance against Borussia Dortmund.”

Atalanta certainly have a strong record with German opponents, going back to winning the Europa League trophy by crushing the then-unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in the Final.

In the Champions League play-offs last month, they overturned a 2-0 first leg deficit to eliminate Borussia Dortmund with a 4-1 success in Bergamo.

“Being the only Italian in the Champions League is a nice feeling, we feel that all Italians are cheering us on and I received messages of encouragement from all over, including my former players at Fiorentina and Monza,” added Palladino.

“We don’t want to set limits on ourselves. We want to have our say, knowing of course that Bayern Munich are a truly excellent team.”

While the Germans are missing Manuel Neuer and waiting on fitness news from Harry Kane, Atalanta are forced to do without several key players.

Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere are still out injured, with Giorgio Scalvini suspended in defence, while Ederson remains a major doubt.

“I would’ve liked to go into this game with an entire squad at my disposal, but in attack especially we are limited without Raspadori and De Ketelaere,” continued the coach.

“I know whoever plays will give 100 per cent for this shirt. We’ll try to end the first 90 minutes of this tie having given our all to make these fans happy.”

Bayern Munich won seven of their eight Champions League games in the opening phase, losing only 3-1 to Arsenal on November 26.

“Bayern don’t have many weak spots, but we studied them carefully,” added Palladino.

“They have so much quality in attack, especially Harry Kane, but we must not lose our identity, can never drop the tempo, as intensity is our greatest strength.”

Is this to be considered Mission Impossible for Atalanta?

“Maybe, but it’s still wonderful to face this type of challenge. We want to enjoy it and I really liked the attitude of the lads.”

Alisson Santos has impressed so much at Napoli that Carlo Ancelotti has sent Brazil scouts to watch him ahead of the World Cup, but the club hasn’t yet decided to purchase him from Sporting CP.

The wide attacker arrived in the January transfer window, on loan for six months at a cost of €3.5m, with an option to buy him outright at the end of the season for a further €16m.

Alisson Santos strong start with Napoli

So far, the 23-year-old has only made five competitive appearances in the Napoli jersey, yet contributed two decisive goals in the 2-2 draw with Roma and 2-1 victory over Torino.

Spanish newspaper AS and Tuttomercatoweb maintain this caught the eye of Brazil boss Ancelotti, who sent some of his staff to watch the 23-year-old in action.

Following the serious injury that ruled Real Madrid star Rodrygo out of the 2026 World Cup, a slot has opened up for a player with similar characteristics.

However, Alisson Santos has apparently not yet won everyone over at Napoli, because transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano notes that so far they have not yet contacted his agent or Sporting CP to confirm whether the option to buy will be activated.

So much will depend on whether they manage to qualify for the Champions League next season, as they currently sit in third place in Serie A.

Vincent Kompany warns Bayern Munich ‘are playing against a very strong’ Atalanta side in the Champions League, while a decision on Harry Kane’s fitness will only be made tomorrow.

The first leg kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on Tuesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

There are some injury concerns for the Bundesliga leaders, as Manuel Neuer is ruled out with Leon Klanac, Hiroki Ito and Alphonso Davies, while star striker Kane is a major doubt.

“Kane had a very good training session, but we will only make a decision tomorrow,” explained Kompany in his press conference.

“The priority is to have him in the squad, whether he starts or not.”

Kompany full of respect for Atalanta

Inevitably, the German giants are the favourites, but they will also have learned the lesson of Borussia Dortmund, who were eliminated by La Dea in the play-offs.

The first leg had ended 2-0 in Germany, only for Atalanta to turn it around with a last-gasp 4-1 success in Italy.

“We are playing against a very strong team tomorrow. There are analogies to the way we play, considering they attack down the wings a lot, but we must time the pressing correctly.

“Atalanta have done some great things, including winning the Europa League, so we absolutely cannot underestimate them. Our objective is to be as competitive as possible in every tournament. We are not afraid of anyone and want to take every single opportunity.”

Kompany was asked about the level of Italian football compared to many others in Europe, seeing as their biggest clubs struggled recently and crashed out.

“I know it’s a topic in Italy at the moment, because Atalanta are the only Italian team still in the Champions League. I watched the level of Inter last year, when I saw Atalanta’s games this year, I see a lot of talent, I see teams that are well-coached.

“It’s been difficult games for Dortmund, for Frankfurt and Liverpool, so we cannot have any pretention towards this game,” insisted coach Kompany.

“Atalanta is a very special opponent in terms of the way they play, and a very interesting game for us as coaches. Atalanta has been building towards where they are today, so they have the belief they can do something special.

“I was never in the Italian League, so I am not the best judge of how different the level is, but probably not too much.”

La Dea had started very shakily this season, in Serie A and Europe, but went from strength to strength after Raffaele Palladino took over from Ivan Juric in January, bringing more of the approach that his mentor Gian Piero Gasperini had imposed.

“Atalanta have a new coach now, but you can see the consistency, and it is never a guarantee after coach like Gasperini to have such a long period of success as an icon for a club, to find someone who can maintain that identity,” noted Kompany.

“It’s really difficult, but they kept that identity and add something new. I have a lot of respect for Atalanta and what they do, so I know tomorrow will be a really tough game.

“We are used to being favourites in most games, so we don’t have a problem accepting this role if people want to say we are favourites. However, anyone who follows football in recent years will know Atalanta can beat anyone.

“They beat Juventus 3-0 this season, are in the Coppa Italia semi-final, so we have great respect for them. Anything is possible in football, but we want to win.”

Unlike the play-off, this time Atalanta must play the first leg on home turf and the second in Germany.

“It looked for all of us that Dortmund was sure to qualify, they looked dominant at home and the better team, but it changed totally in Bergamo,” confessed Kompany.

“Maybe it was the stadium, the atmosphere, the fans, but they had so much belief here. Italian fans are known to be quite loud, but I can guarantee you that the Allianz Arena on Champions League nights is very special too,” smiled Kompany.

Belgium international Charles De Ketelaere is out of action and Kompany admits to having mixed feelings on the situation.

“As a Belgium fan, I want him fit for the World Cup, but I saw Charles in his debut in Bruges. I thought going to Milan was a chance to try out, but Atalanta are perfect for him to develop. He has a wonderful left foot, good physical presence, he runs a lot and this club was absolutely the right place for him to make this step.

“You can see what a good player he is, so it’s good for us that he’s not available tomorrow, but I also hope he can soon be fit and do really well for the national team.”

Luis Diaz was a big €70m investment from Liverpool and made a strong impact this season with 20 goals and 16 assists in 35 competitive appearances for Bayern Munich.

“Lucho has done really well in terms of numbers, but I think he’s so much more than that. I always say he has creativity in chaos, and what I love is the message he sends when he plays, that reflects the team as well, always fighting and trying to get something.

“Just because we are Bayern Munich, it does not mean we are any less hungry than other teams. It has been a pleasure to have him with us,” concluded Kompany.

Mauro Icardi’s former wife and agent, Wanda Nara, surprisingly met Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti, seven years after the striker’s clash with the Italian tactician: ‘Nice to see you again.’

Juventus coach Spalletti met Icardi’s ex-wife and agent Wanda Nara in Turin today.

Wanda Nara posted two pictures in her Instagram stories, showing her meeting with the Bianconeri boss.

Wanda Nara reunites with Spalletti

Icardi’s former representative added a brief caption in her first picture: “Nice to see you again, mister.”

Wanda Nara and Spalletti last crossed paths in 2019 when Icardi was playing under the Italian tactician at Inter.

Back then, Wanda was Icardi’s representative and upset Inter and Spalletti with some provocative remarks on Italian TV.

What happened between Icardi, Wanda Nara and Spalletti at Inter?

In his biography published last year, Spalletti explained what exactly happened with Icardi and Wanda.

“Mario was going through a difficult period in footballing terms,” wrote Spalletti via Goal.com.

“At that moment, things weren’t going the way he had hoped. He wasn’t able to score the way he usually did. She [Wanda] said that if we wanted Icardi to score more goals, we needed to buy different players who could help him do so. In short, better players.

“That was the idea. Unbearable. A bombshell. It was one of those statements that couldn’t be brushed off with a WhatsApp message or an Instagram story. You had to talk face to face, the old-fashioned way.

“There was only one way to avoid a war in the dressing room: Mauro Icardi’s apology. It never came,” Spalletti continued.

“I asked the captain to explain Wanda Naras’s words to the dressing room, to justify them in some way. Mauro replied that it wasn’t his wife, Wanda, who had spoken, but his agent, Nara and that she had done so strictly in that capacity. It was impossible to manage the situation. There was no way.

“I had to tell him two things: remove the captain’s armband and give it to Handanovic. The club agreed, but he took it very badly. In fact, in order not to lose the team, I lost Icardi, the man and the player.”

When, in February 2019, Inter told Icardi he was no longer the team’s captain, the ex-striker refused to join the team for an away Europa League game against Rapid Wien.

The Argentine was frozen out of the team for over a month, and the following April, after a home defeat against Lazio, Spalletti told Sky: “Negotiating with a player to make him play and wear the Inter jersey is humiliating. Towards Inter fans and his teammates. Today, Icardi had to stay out because of how he behaved; it’s only fair that the others play.”

Icardi was then reintroduced to the squad for the last nine games of the campaign, in which he scored two goals, but no longer wore the captain’s armband.

Both Icardi and Spalletti left Inter at the end of the 2018-19 campaign.

Icardi joined PSG, where he would spend the following three seasons, scoring 38 goals in 92 matches.

He had been even more prolific at Inter with 124 goals in 219 matches.

There is mixed news from the Napoli medical staff, as while Scott McTominay returns to training, Antonio Vergara’s problem might be more serious.

The Partenopei have been dealing with an injury crisis for seemingly the entire campaign, as just as one player returns to the field, another picks up a new issue.

Napoli look to medical staff for team picks

McTominay has not played since aggravating the inflammation of a tendon on February 7 when scoring a goal in the victory over Genoa.

According to Sky Sport Italia, the Scotland international will resume training with his teammates tomorrow, so should therefore be in the squad for Saturday’s Serie A match against Lecce.

However, Vergara is increasingly unlikely to be part of the team after he limped off in the win over Torino.

Il Mattino newspaper suggests that the youth academy product has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis and it could take a while for him to make a full recovery.

Napoli are still without David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Amir Rrahmani, but Kevin De Bruyne and Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa made their comebacks last week.

Michael Carrick has done a remarkable job since stepping in as interim manager following the sacking of Ruben Amorim; however, he has not yet convinced the club to appoint him as a permanent manager.

Despite the “Carrick effect” revitalising the squad, Manchester United has reportedly shortlisted Roberto De Zerbi as a top target for the permanent role this summer.

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The former Marseille boss is understood to be ‘keen’ on the Old Trafford job as he eyes a return to the Premier League.

Roberto De Zerbi keen on Manchester United job

According to a report from The Telegraph, De Zerbi is a prominent name on Man United’s shortlist as they decide on their next long-term head coach.

The Italian, who left Marseille by mutual consent in February, has made no secret of his desire to manage a leading English club.

De Zerbi’s stock remains high among senior figures at United, who admire his front-foot style of attacking football and his insistence on dominating possession.

The Italian has been hailed as “one of the best managers in the world” by Arne Slot.

Tottenham also eyeing De Zerbi for permanent role

United are not the only club monitoring the Italian’s situation. Tottenham are also considering De Zerbi as a long-term option, though any move depends on their top-flight status.

Spurs are currently fighting for survival, sitting just one point above the drop zone.

The report suggests that while De Zerbi is a primary target, he would only consider the move if Tottenham secure Premier League survival.

With Igor Tudor under immense pressure after losing his first three games, the North London club may face a fight to beat United to De Zerbi’s signature.

Michael Carrick suffered first defeat as Man United manager vs Newcastle

The managerial speculation has intensified following a reality check for interim boss Michael Carrick.

After a sensational seven-game unbeaten run, Carrick suffered his first defeat as Manchester United manager in a 2-1 loss against 10-men Newcastle on Wednesday.

Despite Newcastle being reduced to 10 men following Jacob Ramsey’s red card, United failed to capitalise.

A late wonder goal from William Osula ended Carrick’s unbeaten run, leaving the United legend ‘bitterly disappointed’.

While United remain third in the table, the defeat has reignited the debate whether Carrick is good enough to lead the club permanently or if a high-profile appointment is necessary.

The post Manchester United boost as manager hailed ‘one of the best in the world’ is ‘keen’ on job appeared first on CaughtOffside.

While Manchester United might have watched their sensational Premier League purple patch come to an abrupt end last time out, the Reds are clearly relishing life under Michael Carrick’s guidance. Although the former Middlesbrough boss might have made a shock return to Old Trafford on temporary basis back in January, United remarkably now have their […]

The post Manchester United are keeping a very close eye on this season’s relegation scrap appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Manchester United are keeping a very close eye on this season’s relegation scrap appeared first on Soccer News.

Neymar Jr. appears to be gradually regaining his best competitive form at Santos. After undergoing meniscus surgery, he has managed to play three matches, showing an impressive level with two goals and one assist. With this, the veteran is aiming for a return to Brazil’s national team, which he has missed for several matches. Ahead of the upcoming friendlies, coach Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly made a key decision, exciting the fans.

According to Lucas Musetti of UOL Esporte, Carlo Ancelotti has made the decision to include Neymar Jr. on the list of pre-selected players with Brazil for the double round of friendlies against France and Croatia. In addition, the coach has decided to travel to watch him play with Santos, in order to follow his physical development. Despite this, the veteran does not have his call-up secured, but he is on a good path, drawing the attention of the Italian.

After shining in his first three matches following his recovery, Santos have decided not to call up Neymar for the match against Mirassol in the Brasileirão. Far from being a relapse of his injury, the veteran has been left out as part of load management, aiming to prioritize his physical continuity. Despite this, the 34-year-old star will train with the team and is expected to be available against Corinthians, where Ancelotti could go to watch him.

If he manages to maintain his physical continuity and good performances, Neymar Jr. could secure his spot with Brazil for the 2026 World Cup. After Rodrygo’s absence due to an ACL and meniscus injury, he could take his place in the roster, having Raphinha and Lucas Paquetá as competition. Because of this, the 34-year-old faces his biggest challenge in recent years: To shine with Santos in order to pursue his ‘last dance’.

Neymar Jr’s Brazil comeback receives major backing from legend Romario

After his return to Santos, Neymar Jr. has shown strong interest in making his return to due to physical problems. While he is coming off a season marked by injuries, he has undergone surgery and appears to be regaining his full physical condition. In response, the veteran’s return to the national team has received considerable support, with the legend Romário being the latest to come out in his defense.

“Neymar’s absence is certainly very bad for Brazil. The sixth title will definitely be farther away. We can only hope he is physically well and able to give everything he has… I don’t know if he’ll be able to be there without issues, but if Neymar is at 70 percent, that’s already good enough—he already helps, he already makes a difference,” Romario said, via Veja Magazine.

As Neymar is the national team’s all-time top scorer, his possible presence at the 2026 World Cup could be decisive. He may no longer be at his peak, but he has proven to be a key player creatively while still maintaining his goal-scoring instinct. Because of this, he could be crucial as an impact substitute, providing experience to manage the tempo of the game. In addition, he has received support from several players.

Scottish Cup TV Schedule

World Soccer Talk’s Scottish Cup TV schedule consistently updates with each game from Scotland’s top cup tournament.

In many ways, the Scottish Cup resembles that of the FA Cup, Copa del Rey, DFB Pokal and any other major club tournament. The one caveat to that statement is that it, unsurprisingly, only applies to clubs in Scotland.

Clubs such as Celtic, Rangers, Hearts, and Aberdeen frequently excel in the competition, but the tournament consistently produces unexpected storylines. For example, the 2021 Scottish Cup Final featured St. Johnstone and Hibernian, proving that the trophy remains within reach for clubs across the country. This unpredictability is a hallmark of the competition, as shown again in 2024 when Celtic and Rangers met in the first Old Firm final since 2002.

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The 2016 Scottish Cup Final featured Hibernian and Rangers. For one, both clubs compete in the Scottish Championship, the second tier of league soccer in the country. Additionally, Hibs sought its first Scottish Cup title in 114 years. The dramatic final needed a stoppage-time winner to break Hibernian’s drought.

Despite playing in the second division, the triumph opened European potential for Hibs.

The Scottish Cup, also known as the Scottish FA Cup, guarantees a spot in the following season’s Europa League. Moreover, the competition used to have the runner-up reach the qualification stage, but that changed in 2014 to open up for placement in the Scottish Premiership.

Still, the Scottish Cup presents the opportunity for any club in the Scottish FA. Those in the Scottish Professional Football League, or the top four divisions, as well as the clubs in the fifth and sixth divisions qualify automatically. Clubs beneath that level, including amateur and junior teams, go through extended qualifying to reach the Scottish Cup.

History of the Scottish Cup

The Scottish Cup TV schedule features familiar names for soccer fans. Celtic has the most wins in the competition at 42. Just behind Scotland’s most successful side is its Old Firm rival Rangers, which has 34 Scottish Cups.

Despite the combined 76 Scottish Cups, there is still variety in terms of winners. In total, 25 different clubs can say they lifted the Scottish Cup. Yet, some of these clubs do not exist.

Aberdeen is the current defending champion for the 2025/26 season. They defeated Celtic 4–3 on penalties in the May 2025 final after a 1–1 draw at Hampden Park.

While the FA Cup is the oldest organized competition in the world, the Scottish Cup does produce the oldest trophy in the world. That is just because the current FA Cup trophy came around in 1911.

Interestingly, the Scottish FA uses the same trophy from 1874 in the celebrations after the final. Then, the winners receive a replica to hold on to, while the original goes back into a museum.

ESPN holds the rights in the United States to broadcast the Scottish Cup. Consequently, a number of games go through ESPN+.

Scottish Premiership TV Schedule

If you’re looking for the Scottish Premiership TV schedule for fans in the United States, you’ve come to the right place.

CBS owns the rights to the Scottish Premiership as part of its extensive coverage of European soccer. Therefore, games in Scotland’s top division are regularly available on CBS’s streaming platform, Paramount+.

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For the 2025/26 season, CBS will carry at least one Scottish Premiership match per week on either CBS Sports Network or Paramount+. The network will also have coverage of select matches from the Scottish Championship and Scottish League Cup. The U.S. media rights include both English and Spanish to the Scottish Premiership, the top professional soccer league in Scotland.

The Scottish Premiership, previously known for sponsorship reasons as the William Hill Premiership, is the top division of the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), the league competition for men’s professional football clubs in Scotland.

Every week, we’ll update the TV schedules for you.

USL League One TV Schedule

USL League One occupies the third tier of the American soccer pyramid. For the 2026 season, 17 clubs are competing for the title. This follows the late withdrawal of South Georgia Tormenta FC, which announced it would not participate in the 2026 campaign just days before the season opener due to internal financial restructuring.

While the USL Championship often features teams with sights set on the first division, USL League One serves as a vital professional battleground for rising talent and historic community clubs. Notably, the league consists entirely of independent organizations; all former MLS reserve sides have transitioned to MLS NEXT Pro, leaving League One as a platform for purely independent professional soccer.

The USL League One TV schedule airs on ESPN+. However, there are select games that air on some of the major ESPN networks. For instance, ESPN2 airs select games on the schedule below. Some games are also available on CBS Sports Golazo Network through Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, the Roku Channel, and other providers.

Ederson, Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere did not train with the rest of the Atalanta squad today and are expected to miss tomorrow’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich, while Giorgio Scalvini is suspended.

Atalanta are preparing for the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Bayern Munich.

It will be played tomorrow, Tuesday, March 10, at 21:0 CET (20:00 GMT) at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.

Atalanta team news ahead of Bayern Munich clash in Champions League RO16

Regular starters Ederson, Raspadori and De Ketelaere are still injured and continued to train separately on Monday, TMW reports.

Giorgio Scalvini, on the other hand, worked with the rest of the team days after suffering a knee injury in a Serie A match against Lazio, but the Italian will still miss tomorrow’s match due to a one-game ban.

Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino and midfielder Mario Pasalic will preview the match during a pre-match press conference at 19:00 CET (18:00 GMT) later today.

Atalanta eliminated Borussia Dortmund from the Champions League knockout playoff with a 4-3 aggregate win.

The Nerazzurri are the only remaining Serie A team in Europe’s elite competition.

• Read more – What to expect from Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich and how it impacts Italy

Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero joked with Luka Modric after Milan’s 1-0 win over Inter on Sunday: ‘With Italian restaurants and food, you can play until 50.’

Modric was one of the best players on the pitch in Milan’s 1-0 victory over city rivals Inter on Sunday.

Del Piero tells Modric: ‘You can play until 50

Italy and Juventus legend Del Piero commented on the game as a pundit for CBS Sports last night and joked with the Croatian legend: “It was amazing again watching you. Congratulations again,” Del Piero said.

“With Italian restaurants and food, you can play until 50. Our quality of food is amazing, don’t know if you agree.”

The Rossoneri’s win leaves them second in the standings, still seven points behind their city rivals, and Modric argued that if the team had performed better in “small games”, they’d have been closer to their rivals.

Milan, in fact, have only lost twice in Serie A this term, while Inter have suffered five defeats.

The Nerazzurri, however, only picked up one draw against Milan’s nine.

Inter have won 22 of 28 games this term, and their city rivals have collected 17.

“We are very proud people. We like to fight.”

Luka Modrić shares what being from Zadar means to him pic.twitter.com/6azHQPAgRM

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 8, 2026

Italy World Cup winner and former Bayern Munich star Luca Toni feels the Bavarians ‘must not underestimate Atalanta’ in the Champions League Round of 16: ‘If they take it lightly, it’s a risk.’

Atalanta and Bayern Munich meet in the Champions League Round of 16 with the first leg played in Bergamo on Tuesday, March 10.

Toni warns Bayern about Atalanta

Bayern Munich are among the favourites to win the Champions League this season, and, naturally, “emirates online casinos” sees them as the most likely team to progress to the quarter-finals, where they’d meet the winner of the tie between Manchester City and Real Madrid.

Atalanta, however, have already shocked some European heavyweights this season, especially in Bergamo, with Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund both losing at the New Balance Arena in the previous Champions League phases.

“On paper, Bayern are much stronger than Atalanta. La Dea has good players, and they play good football with Raffaele Palladino on the bench, especially in the Champions League,” Toni, a former Bayern Munich and Fiorentina star, told Prime Video Italia.

“The coach has changed the team’s mentality. I’ve heard Juric didn’t have a good relationship with the team, but Palladino has recreated a good atmosphere inside the team, as it happened with Gasperini.”

Palladino replaced Juric at the start of November, and La Dea has since won 15 of 26 games.

Bayern Munich will travel to Bergamo without the injured Manuel Neuer, while Harry Kane should be available after missing Friday’s Bundesliga game against Borussia Monchengladbach.

“It’s all in their hands. If they are on their day, they are clearly favourites. Bayern have fantastic players,” Toni continued.

“That being said, they should not underestimate Aalanta, who have the confidence and the pride to have reached such a stage. It will be the game of a lifetime for Atalanta, and it’s a risk if Bayern take it lightly.”

Atalanta hope Ederson will be available on Tuesday after missing the last five matches due to an injury.

“Ederson is one of the most European players, one of the best,” Toni concluded.

“Let’s see who will play in attack, but Atalanta are characterised by team spirit, as everyone helps.”

Toni spent two seasons at Bayern Munich, scoring 58 goals in 89 games.

During his playing career, the former Italian striker won a Bundesliga title in 2007-08 and the German Cup in the same year.

With Italy, he won the 2006 World Cup. He was twice the Serie A top goalscorer, first in 2005-06 with 31 goals and then in 2014-15 with 22 goals, the same as Mauro Icardi.

Liverpool has suffered a major injury blow with goalkeeper Alisson Becker ruled out of the Champions League clash against Galatasaray.

The Brazilian shot-stopper did not travel to Istanbul with the rest of Arne Slot’s squad for the round-of-16 first-leg encounter after sustaining a setback during training on Monday.

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Paul Joyce, writing for The Times, confirmed the news and explained that the issue arose following the team’s final session before departure.

Joyce wrote: “Alisson will miss Liverpool’s Champions League game with Galatasaray having complained of discomfort after Monday’s training session.”

While the problem is reportedly minor, the decision to leave the 33-year-old on Merseyside reflects a cautious approach from the Liverpool medical staff.

Nevertheless, the timing is a significant headache for Slot, as Alisson’s presence in high-stakes European away games has often been the difference for the Reds.

Giorgi Mamardashvili to step in for injured Alisson Becker

The report adds that the goalkeeper has not travelled to Istanbul and that Giorgi Mamardashvili is in line to replace him.

The Georgian international, who officially joined the club in the summer of 2025, is now set to make his first appearance since the FA Cup victory over Barnsley two months ago.

Mamardashvili is no stranger to the atmosphere at RAMS Park, having replaced Alisson as a substitute during Liverpool’s 1–0 defeat there back in September.

With 11 appearances already this season, the 25-year-old will be tasked with providing the defensive stability required to take a positive result back to Anfield.

Alisson Becker is among one of the most injury-prone goalkeepers

This latest setback unfortunately continues a frustrating trend for Alisson.

Despite his status as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers, his availability has been a persistent concern.

He has already missed nine matches this season across all competitions, including a significant spell in late 2025 due to a hamstring injury.

Since 2019, Alisson has faced a variety of muscle, hip, and calf issues that have forced Liverpool to rely heavily on their backup options.

While the club’s investment in Mamardashvili was intended to future-proof the position, the frequent reliance on the deputy has resulted in growing concern over the Brazilian’s long-term future at the club.

The post Liverpool handed major blow before Galatasaray clash as key player is ruled out appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Verdict: Away win Best odds: 6/5 Bookmaker: Olympusbet For the second time in six months, Barcelona arrive at St James’ Park as Newcastle United host the Spanish giants in Tuesday’s Champions League last‑16 first leg. The Magpies earned their place in the knockout rounds by defeating Qarabag in the playoffs, while Hansi Flick’s side secured […]

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Verdict: Draw Best odds: 3/1 Bookmaker: ZetBet Liverpool resume their Champions League campaign on Tuesday night as they travel to RAMS Park for the first leg of their round‑of‑16 tie against Galatasaray. While the Reds sit sixth in the Premier League, they take confidence from finishing third in the Champions League league phase. Their hosts, […]

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Barcelona president Joan Laporta has hit back at Xavi by stating the same group of players have won more under Hansi Flick. Xavi, a Blaugrana legend, left his role in charge of Barca at the end of the 2023-24 season. Under his guidance, Barca won LaLiga in the 2022-23 campaign. In a recent interview with […]

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While Manchester United might have watched their sensational Premier League purple patch come to an abrupt end last time out, the Reds are clearly relishing life under Michael Carrick’s guidance. Although the former Middlesbrough boss might have made a shock return to Old Trafford on temporary basis back in January, United remarkably now have their […]

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The post Manchester United are keeping a very close eye on this season’s relegation scrap appeared first on Soccer News.

After a successful tenure as Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta has positioned himself as a candidate seeking a third term at the club. While he has received support from several current and former players, Xavi Hernández has taken a stance against him, instead backing Víctor Font. Not only that, but he also made explosive remarks, blaming the candidate for Lionel Messi’s failure to return to the club. In response, Laporta delivered a strong reply.

Even though Xavi Hernández returned to Barcelona under Joan Laporta in 2021, his departure from the club in 2024 damaged the relationship between the two. After remaining silent for several years about his exit, the former coach decided to speak out, making a surprising revelation about the candidate who supposedly rejected Lionel Messi’s return in January 2023. In response, Laporta fired back at him.

“I was surprised and hurt. When I see these statements from Xavi, I think of Flick. It’s hard to be president of Barca and you have to make difficult decisions. I did what I had to do… With Xavi, I saw that we were going to lose, and with Flick, I see that we are going to win. I understand that he is hurt. While Xavi was losing, Flick is winning games with the same players,” Laporta said, via Mundo Deportivo.

Far from agreeing with Xavi Hernández regarding Lionel Messi’s potential return, Laporta decided to reaffirm his own version of events, rejecting the former coach’s comments: “It was like this with Messi: When we couldn’t renew him in 2023 due to financial issues, he told me that Messi wanted to return. I sent the contract to Jorge Messi, who later came to my house and told me that here he would have too much pressure.”

Barcelona’s Laporta has no regrets over Lionel Messi, Xavi departures

Following Josep Maria Bartomeu’s controversial tenure, Joan Laporta took over as president of Barcelona with serious financial challenges. With astronomical debt, they were on the verge of bankruptcy, but the board’s decisions put them back on the winning track. However, the former president had to make tough decisions, such as not renewing Messi’s contract and letting legends like Xavi and Ronald Koeman leave, which he does not regret.

“The three toughest decisions I have made are about Messi, Koeman, and Xavi. I made them by putting Barça’s interests first. I had two of them as players, and they are decisions one has to take. They are legends of Barcelona. Barça cannot be run with a computer; it is about feeling. Barça is above players and presidents,” Joan Laporta said, via Mundo Deportivo.

Alongside this, Laporta expanded on the reasons behind Xavi Hernández’s departure. He not only revealed that he had relaxed in his work, but also that he was dissatisfied with the squad and wanted to replace several players. With this, the former president made it clear that his priority has always been the team, and that he would make any decision necessary if it meant returning the club to a winning path and restoring its financial stability.

USL Championship TV Schedule

The USL Championship TV schedule features a total of 34 games for each team. However, with some former USL Championship teams moving to MLS Next Pro, the quantity of teams is a nice round number of 25.

Like past years, the 2026 USL Championship season features a total of 34 games for each team.

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The 2026 USL Championship season features a two-conference alignment consisting of 25 teams: 13 in the Eastern Conference and 12 in the Western Conference. Each club competes in a 34-match schedule, which includes 30 regular season league games and four group-stage matches in the Prinx Tires USL Cup.

To maintain regional rivalries, teams play their own conference opponents twice (once at home and once away). The remainder of the league schedule is filled by five or six inter-conference matchups against select teams from the opposite side of the bracket.

At the end of the 30-game regular season, the top eight teams from each conference qualify for the playoffs. The postseason follows a fixed-bracket, single-elimination format, culminating in the USL Championship Final to determine the league title.

Broadcast information

Ahead of the 2024 USL Championship season, the broadcasters in the United States for the league changed. ESPN, which had the rights previously, was still a regular for games. ESPN+ had games, with ESPN and ESPN2 also occasionally showing contests.

However, as part of the change, CBS got in on the action. That change meant games were available on TV channels like CBS, CBS Sports Network and the CBS Sports Golazo Network. Coverage was also available on Paramount+.

Select Spanish-language contests are available on TUDN.

We’re continually updating the USL Championship TV schedule throughout the season, so bookmark the page to watch for the latest listings.

Brian Dunseth has already staked out an unforgettable legacy as a soccer player, but now, he’s staking out a new legacy as a commentator.

Born in Upland, California, on March 2, 1977, Dunseth started playing for Upland Celtic, dominating against other teams in the state and eventually earning an invitation to a tournament in England. At 12 years of age, Dunseth faced off against teams from England, Denmark, and the Netherlands, and while he believed that he had done well enough to continue his progression, he was soon dealt a cold dose of reality. Immediately after heading back to the Golden State, Dunseth was cut from the squad.

“I was lucky enough to be playing at 12 years old for a Celtic team that smashed everybody in California. I mean, we were winning everything, so much so that we ended up going to England and playing teams from England, Holland, and Denmark. And at the end of that tournament, I was the only one on the team who got cut,” stated Dunseth in an exclusive World Soccer Talk interview.

“It was devastating, because my best friend’s dad was the team manager, these are all my friends, and all of a sudden, it was my first real failure in a protected environment. From that moment on, man, it was all I wanted. I continued to play all the other sports—basketball, baseball, football, all those things—and I was like, ‘You know what? Screw those guys. I’m gonna show those MFers.’ In my mind, I just locked in.”

Despite this early rejection, Dunseth didn’t give up on his dreams; instead, he grinded even harder. He started working alongside two ex-convicts, making $2.75 an hour as a dishwasher at a convalescent hospital, and excelled as Damien High School’s #10 before being one of the last players recruited to Cal State Fullerton, who agreed to pay for his parking, books, and one meal per day, but not his school expenses.

Dunseth transitioned from #10 to center back and kept his pedal to the metal, which eventually resulted in a breakthrough 1997. After representing the United States in Malaysia in the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship, Dunseth became one of the first players to sign a Project-40 (now Generation Adidas) contract, effectively fast-tracking him into MLS.

He was assigned to the New England Revolution and emerged as a key figure in defense before being traded to the Miami Fusion in 2001. However, his time in the 305 came to an abrupt end after the Fusion folded, with Dunseth being selected by the Columbus Crew in the 2002 MLS Dispersal Draft. He enjoyed the prime form of his career, helping them come within inches of the MLS Cup Final and winning the U.S. Open Cup, before being traded to the Dallas Burn (now FC Dallas) in September 2003.

“I always had seemed to find myself in situations and teams where I was good enough to play, but I wasn’t good enough to be on those consistent, winning teams that challenged for titles. I never felt in my professional career like I had a coach that really believed in me, like ‘that’s my guy.’ I mean this with the utmost respect, when you look at Bob Bradley, Bruce Arena, and Sigi Schmid, those three super iconic managers in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s of Major League Soccer, even the Dom Kinnears, the Frankie Yallops, I never had those type of coaches that just had blind faith in me, no matter what.

“I was their guy, and this was going to be a cultivated winning team. So when I got in that moment, I played in the first game at Crew Stadium with the New England Revolution. It was an amazing atmosphere: Brian McBride, Jeff Cunningham, Stern John, Brian Maisonneuve, all those guys… I’m frustrated, because we should have done the double. What people forget is that we ended up losing to the Revolution in the Eastern Conference Final to a Jay Heaps goal. We would have effectively played the Galaxy in the MLS Cup Final, and hosted the Galaxy in the Open Cup Final back-to-back within the same week. We were already devastated, we were frustrated, and the Galaxy had won the most important thing.”

“We didn’t care about it, and we smashed them from the opening whistle. And I remember spraying a ball out to Freddy ‘Cabeza de Hongo’ García; he ends up playing a ball back across to Brian West, back of the net. We end up winning 1-0. And what was cool about it at the time was Lamar Hunt. He was one of the most genuine human beings that you could possibly ever come across; he had invested in the club, he invested in Major League Soccer.

“To have the U.S. Open Cup trophy named after him, to be able to be up on that stage and get handed the trophy from the owner of the Columbus Crew in the first soccer-specific stadium with his name on it, it was really, really cool. And to be in those celebratory moments, to have him in the locker room with us, I can vividly remember going over to him and hugging him and saying, ‘Without you, these opportunities don’t exist. Without you, this moment is nothing more than a fantasy for a kid that grew up in Southern California with dreams and hopes and aspirations.’ I grew up trying to consume every bit of soccer in a world that’s not like today, when you can throw on Paramount Plus and have the opportunity to watch 80 games this afternoon. It was wild how much fun it was, both on and off the field, and the stories that will never be told… it was a really incredible moment.”

Dunseth spent just a few months in Texas before moving to Swedish side Bodens BK, returning after a year and spending a season with Real Salt Lake. He then bounced around from Chivas USA to the LA Galaxy, becoming the first-ever player in MLS history to be on the roster of seven different teams before retiring in 2006.

Similar to other Californians like Jordan Gardner, Dunseth continues to play a leading role in shaping American soccer culture, working for major outlets like Fox Soccer Channel, ESPN, SiriusXM, and NBC Sports and calling Real Salt Lake games for his local channel. And today, he’s serving as a commentator on Apple TV alongside Max Bretos, traveling across the country and announcing a number of different Major League Soccer matches.

“Usually, if it’s a West Coast game like Seattle, Portland, Salt Lake, or LAFC—those type of games—I’ll travel Saturday morning to the game just because it’s more efficient; I’ll gain that extra hour, call the game, come back first thing Sunday, and miss a majority of my kids’ soccer. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, I’ve got Counterattack with Tony Meola on SiriusXM FC; I’ll wake up at 6 and get the kids ready for school. Now my oldest is driving, I don’t have to worry about him; middle boy back to school, youngest to school; I’ll do the show from 8 to 11 local time. If I’m booked to do any appearances or podcasts, I’ll try to knock those out on Mondays. I have a podcast called ‘Week in the Tackle’ with Tom Rennie. He’s the Premier League announcer for TalkSport; he’s amazing, really, really talented, he does the football show on SiriusXM, and our podcast on ‘Week in the Tackle’ is usually recorded either Monday or Tuesday. Thursday I’ll do a local show, called Talking RSL, for one of the local television channels.”

“If I have any hosting commitments or any appearances sprinkled throughout there, Fridays are usually committed to doing SiriusXM in the morning, and then doing our preview conversations with coaches. In the midst of all of this, I’ve got three boys that are playing ECNL soccer, so I’m heavily invested in driving them to practices and staying at their practices and being there with them, because I miss out on a majority of their games. And in the mornings of those Saturdays, I’m usually glued to my computer or to my phone, logged in to the Hudl Cam to watch their games, and then communicate with them afterwards. I’ve been happily married for 20 years… there’s always something going on, there’s always something that we’re either driving to or trying to get to, with my kids so heavily committed to soccer.”

After the victory against Benfica, Real Madrid secured a place in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. Despite this, they still have several absences ahead of their clash with Manchester City, with Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo being the most notable. Far from recovering players, Vinícius Jr. has now lost another key teammate for coach Álvaro Arbeloa, forcing the team to make significant rotations.

Just days before facing the Citizens, Álvaro Carreras was diagnosed with a muscle injury in the calf of his right leg, Real Madrid reported on their official website. While the club did not provide further details on his recovery timeline, Diario MARCA reveals that the Spanish defender could be sidelined for only one week, meaning he could still be available for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.

Despite only arriving at Los Blancos at the start of the season for €50 million, Carreras quickly established himself as the undisputed starter at left back. Not only does he contribute defensively, but he also offers a great deal creatively, making him one of the most complete players in his position. For this reason, his absence against Manchester City is quite significant, but coach Arbeloa already seems to have a replacement in mind.

According to Diario MARCA, coach Álvaro Arbeloa has decided to rely once again on Ferland Mendy, who recently recovered from a series of muscle injuries. With only 202 minutes played this season, the Frenchman’s potential start raises considerable uncertainty among fans. Nevertheless, the 30-year-old defender has proven to be a rock at the back, which could be crucial in countering Manchester City’s powerful attack.

Real Madrid’s Arbeloa reportedly set to bet on youngster in midfield

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have been hampered by injuries in defense and midfield, creating inconsistency in their performances. However, Jude Bellingham’s thigh injury has notably weakened the team. In response, coach Álvaro Arbeloa has decided to rely on two young academy players, but one of them has surprised with his level and is reportedly set to start against Manchester City.

While Jorge Cestero was one of the first youngsters to debut under Arbeloa, it has been Thiago Pitarch who has truly impressed with his performances. After playing against Benfica and getting minutes in LaLiga, he is now expected to start against Manchester City, according to Diario AS. If that happens, he would become ineligible to play in the UEFA Youth League with Juvenil A, as it would be his third appearance in the Champions League.

Il Mattino confirms that Napoli are in a hurry to agree to a contract extension with Scott McTominay, with the club’s desire driven by ‘internal balance’ rather than the player’s demands.

Napoli are set to offer McTominay a new deal, and Il Mattino confirms that the Partenopei hope to shake hands with the Scottish star in a short time.

The Naples-based newspaper (via TuttoNapoli) reports that club directors believe the 29-year-old deserves a new contract based on his performances, not because the player has demanded one and a higher salary.

The former Manchester United midfielder has never raised financial complaints, but maintaining the team’s internal balance has prompted Napoli to prepare an offer with a pay rise for their midfield star.

McTominay is contracted at the Stadio Maradona until June 2028, and previous reports claimed that the club is planning to extend his stay by two more years, until 2030.

McTominay has scored ten goals and provided four assists in 34 appearances across all competitions this season.

He contributed to the 2024-25 Scudetto victory, being named Serie A’s best player.

At the heart of what has become an infamous crisis, Tottenham will get their Champions League Round of 16 adventure underway when they travel to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night. While Igor Tudor might have only arrived in north London less than a month ago, the Croatian tactician already finds the pressure on his shoulders […]

The post Atletico Madrid vs Tottenham Bet Builder Tips – 5/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

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Xavi has sensationally hit out at Joan Laporta, accusing the Barcelona president of blocking Lionel Messi’s potential return to the club. Messi left Barca in 2021, with the club reportedly unable to agree terms on a new contract for the Argentine superstar, who is their record goalscorer. Xavi coached Barca between November 2021 and May […]

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La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Hakan Calhanoglu has sustained a strain in the adductor of his right thigh, which will force him to miss the next game against Atalanta, but Inter hope Alessandro Bastoni will recover in time.

Inter star Calhanoglu will miss the next Serie A match against Atalanta on Saturday due to a new adductor injury.

Latest Inter injury updates: Bastoni and Calhanoglu

As reported by Gazzetta, the Turkey international underwent medical tests on Monday morning after feeling discomfort during the warm-up of yesterday’s match against Milan.

Examinations highlighted a mild strain in the adductor of his right thigh, which will rule him out of the next league game.

Calhanoglu was an unused substitute during Sunday’s 1-0 loss against Milan. Inter coach Cristian Chivu explained that the Nerazzurri star “wasn’t feeling well,” so he was not involved in the derby.

Last Tuesday, Calhanoglu had played almost an hour in a Coppa Italia semifinal first leg against Como.

As for Bastoni, Inter hope the Azzurri defender won’t need further examinations after being forced to be subbed off against Milan.

As Chivu explained after the match, Bastoni had a “knock in the shin.”

Gazzetta reports that Bastoni was still limping on Monday and will be assessed by Inter doctors on Tuesday, but the Nerazzurri hope he’ll return in time for the next Serie A match.

Reports in Italy claim that Juventus are interested in a potential summer transfer for Tottenham Hotspur and former Genoa defender Djed Spence as the Bianconeri draw up a list of targets to strengthen their full-back position. 

Juventus interested in Tottenham’s Spence according to reports in Italy

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, full-back is among the priority positions for Juventus to strengthen during the off-season. There have been recent links between the Bianconeri and Italy hopeful Michael Kayode at Brentford, and also with Roma’s Zeki Celik, who could become available on a free transfer. 

According to Monday’s reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the latest name on the wishlist is Tottenham right-back Spence, who knows Juventus sporting director Marco Ottolini from their time together at Genoa. 

Ottolini brought Spence to Genoa on loan with an option to buy, around the same time that Radu Dragusin moved to Tottenham during the January transfer window in 2024. The three-time England international made 16 Serie A appearances during the second half of the 2023-24 campaign. 

As things stand, there have not been any formal negotiations between the two sides, but according to Monday’s report, Juventus would need to pay a fee in the region of €30m if they are to lure Spence away from the relegation-threatened Tottenham.

That is a similar fee to the one that has been cited for the potential signing of Kayode. 

€30m is a considerable fee for Juventus, especially at full-back, and La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that the Old Lady may have to look at moving on one of their current players first before they are able to pull off this sort of deal. Pierre Kalulu has been mentioned as one of the players who could potentially be sacrificed in the summer. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus are happy with Jeremie Boga’s performances so far and are considering making his move permanent for less than €5m.

Juventus are satisfied with the impact of their January signing Boga, as the ex-Sassuolo and Atalanta winger has scored two goals and provided one assist in seven appearances as a substitute.

How much do Juventus need to pay to sign Boga permanently?

The Ivory Coast international moved to the Allianz Stadium on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice on the winter transfer window deadline day, and the Serie A giants can make his move permanent for just €4.8m.

As reported by Gazzetta, Boga’s convincing performances so far and the favourable financial conditions of the deal have already convinced Juventus to consider his permanent transfer.

Boga’s permanent transfer would also be affordable in terms of salary, as the 29-year-old would earn between €1.5m and €2m.

Before joining Juventus, Boga had not played a competitive match since November 30.

His time at OGC Nice practically ended a few days later when a group of circa 400 ultras targeted the player and the club’s sporting director with a very serious physical assault, as if they were responsible for a six-game losing streak.

“It was a bad moment for my family and me. I still can’t go through the details, but I spent two months alone at home with my fitness coach and my wife,” Boga said in his first interview as a Juventus player in February.

“It was a bad moment, but now I’m happy to be out of that situation.

“It was a bad moment for my family and me. I still can’t go through the details, but I spent two months alone at home with my fitness coach and my wife. It was a bad moment, but now I’m happy to be out of that situation.

“Juventus saved me. It’s been a blessing.”

Newcastle United are reportedly preparing an ambitious summer move for Sporting CP striker Luis Suárez, with the Colombian forward emerging as a major transfer target for Eddie Howe’s side.

According to journalist Sebastián Vidal, the Magpies have begun exploring a potential deal that could reach £50 million, as the club looks to strengthen its attacking options ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Newcastle are facing an increasingly competitive race for European qualification.

Inconsistency throughout the campaign has exposed areas where the squad may require reinforcements, and the club’s recruitment team is believed to be prioritising the addition of a prolific striker.

Suárez’s Outstanding Season in Portugal

The striker has enjoyed a remarkable season with Sporting CP, quickly establishing himself as one of the most productive forwards in Portuguese football.

Across all competitions this season, the Colombia international has scored 29 goals and provided six assists in 37 appearances, numbers that have drawn attention from clubs across Europe.

Sporting signed Suárez from Spanish side Almería last summer, and his impact has been immediate. The 28-year-old combines physical strength with intelligent movement in the penalty area, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Despite being under contract with the Portuguese club until 2030, reports indicate that Suárez would be open to considering a move to a bigger European league if the right opportunity arises.

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Newcastle United are looking for attacking reinforcements

Newcastle’s interest in Suárez reflects the club’s desire to improve their attacking output.

Although Howe’s side has shown flashes of quality this season, the team has struggled for consistency in front of goal.

Several of Newcastle’s recent attacking signings have yet to fully meet expectations.

Players such as Anthony Elanga and Nick Woltemade have found it difficult to consistently influence matches, while forward Yoane Wissa has endured injury setbacks and struggled to replicate his previous scoring form.

These challenges have prompted Newcastle’s recruitment team to evaluate alternative options capable of providing a reliable goal threat.

“From what I hear…” – Newcastle given important message over potential £70m forward transfer

The post Newcastle working on deal to sign £50 million-rated striker from Portugal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Barcelona have reportedly begun closely monitoring Tottenham defender Luka Vušković as the Catalan club searches for promising young centre-backs to strengthen its squad in the coming years.

According to Sky Germany, the Spanish giants have added the 19-year-old Croatian to their defensive shortlist following his impressive performances while on loan at Bundesliga side Hamburg.

Vušković has been enjoying a breakthrough season in Germany, establishing himself as a regular starter and attracting attention from several clubs across Europe.

Although Hamburg are keen to retain the teenager for another season, Tottenham are believed to have different plans for the highly rated defender.

Vušković has impressed on his loan spell at Hamburg

Vušković joined Hamburg on loan to gain valuable first-team experience, and the move has proven beneficial for his development.

Despite his young age, he has quickly adapted to the intensity of German football and has become a consistent presence in Hamburg’s defensive line.

Standing well over six feet tall, Vušković combines strong aerial ability with composure in possession, qualities that have made him stand out in the Bundesliga.

The Croatian youth international was already regarded as one of Europe’s most promising defensive prospects before his move to Germany.

His performances this season have only strengthened that reputation, with scouts from several clubs reportedly following his progress.

More Stories / Latest News

‘Shortlist in place’ – Tottenham set for second managerial change as club prepares drastic action

Mar 10 2026, 6:00

Tottenham duo ‘targeted by supporters’ will lead massive summer exodus

Mar 9 2026, 23:34

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Mar 9 2026, 22:37

Defender is part of long term plans at Tottenham

Tottenham secured Vušković with the expectation that he would eventually become part of their long-term defensive structure.

While the current loan spell has allowed him to develop away from the spotlight of the Premier League, Spurs are reportedly keen to integrate him into the first-team setup once the season concludes.

Hamburg, however, are said to be pushing for a second loan agreement in order to keep the young defender for another campaign.

The Bundesliga club believe another year of regular football could further accelerate his development.

Barcelona have been actively rebuilding their defensive options in recent seasons and are keen to add technically strong centre-backs capable of playing out from the back.

Vušković’s composure and ball-playing ability match well with Barcelona’s traditional style of football.

Supercomputer predicts unthinkable Tottenham relegation as Premier League title winner revealed

The post Barcelona add Tottenham star to defensive shortlist but face stumbling block in his chase appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fulham defender Antonee Robinson has emerged as a target ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, with both Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly monitoring his situation.

According to TEAMtalk, the United States international would favour a move to Liverpool if he were to leave Craven Cottage at the end of the 2025/26 season.

Both clubs are evaluating potential reinforcements at left-back, though their transfer strategies may depend heavily on whether they secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

With Robinson believed to be available for a fee in the region of £25 million, the 28-year-old could represent a relatively affordable solution for two clubs seeking experienced Premier League defenders.

Robinson has experienced a meteoric rise at Fulham

Robinson has developed into one of the most reliable left-backs in the Premier League since joining Fulham from Wigan Athletic in 2020.

He is known for his blistering pace, attacking runs and his defensive consistency.

This season he has once again been among Fulham’s best performers, contributing both defensively and offensively with consistent displays down the left flank.

Robinson’s performances have also strengthened his reputation internationally, where he remains a vital player for the United States men’s national team.

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Man United and Liverpool are interested in the left-back

Liverpool’s interest is closely tied to the uncertain future of Andy Robertson, who has been a central figure at Anfield for nearly a decade.

As the Scottish international enters the latter stages of his career and speculation about his future grows, Liverpool’s recruitment team is exploring potential successors.

Man United, meanwhile, are also planning ahead in the same position.

Luke Shaw has been an important player at Old Trafford for years but has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.

As a result, United are assessing options capable of providing both reliability and long-term stability on the left side of defense.

While both Liverpool and Man United are monitoring the situation, Robinson’s reported preference for Anfield could give the Merseyside club an early advantage.

Man United pursuit of Premier League midfielder depends on UCL qualification

The post Left-back on Man United radar to replace Luke Shaw favours move to Liverpool appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Prediction: Bodo/Glimt to win 2-1 Best Odds: 8/1 Bookmaker: Zetbet Bodo/Glimt and Sporting CP will lock horns in the UEFA Champions League this week. The first leg of the last-16 tie between the Norwegian Eliteserien club and the Portuguese Primeira Liga side will be held at the Aspmyra Stadion in Bodo and is scheduled to […]

The post Prediction: Bodo/Glimt vs Sporting CP appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: Bodo/Glimt vs Sporting CP appeared first on Soccer News.

Struggling Juventus striker Jonathan David is reportedly of interest to Ligue 1 side Lyon after a disappointing first season in Serie A with the Bianconeri according to the latest reports. 

David joined Juventus on a free transfer at the beginning of the summer transfer window following a five-year spell with Lille in Ligue 1, during which time he scored 109 goals from 232 appearances across all competitions. 

The Canada international has struggled to replicate that form in Serie A, though. He has five goals and four assists to his name from league appearances so far this term. 

David showed some encouraging signs in January and early February with four goals and two assists from a run of five league matches, but these have been his only goals in the league other than his strike on the opening day of the 2025-26 season. 

Now, David appears to be falling down the pecking order in the Juventus striking department. He was hooked at half-time of Juventus’s 4-0 victory over Pisa in Serie A over the weekend, and watched on as his teammates scored four second-half goals in his absence. 

Recent reports indicate that Luciano Spalletti is now inclined to stick with his ‘fluid front three’ for next weekend’s match against Udinese, leaving David out altogether. The Canadian’s opportunities are expected to be further reduced once Dusan Vlahovic makes his return from injury. 

Could David return to Ligue 1 after less than a year with Juventus?

According to reports from Tuttosport and Calciomercato.com, David could potentially be poised to head back to Ligue 1 less than a year after he left Lille on a free transfer.