While Al Nassr face more schedule changes, now in the Saudi Pro League, Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly entered the final stage of his recovery from injury.

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s muscle injury forced him to miss the Portugal national team’s March international window in order to complete his recovery in Saudi Arabia. With Al Nassr also navigating schedule changes in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese star is reportedly entering the final stretch of his rehabilitation.

The hamstring injury Ronaldo suffered against Al Fayha on February 28 has kept him off the field for the entire month of March. The forward has missed two club matches and was also passed over for Portugal’s two friendlies, but his return to action is now drawing close.

As reported by Al Nassr reporter Abdulaziz Al-Osaimi, Ronaldo has been reporting to the club’s training facilities regularly. However, the Portuguese star is currently limited to individual sessions rather than full group training alongside his teammates.

Reports have emerged suggesting that team physician Dr. Carlos Miguel has cleared both Ronaldo and Sadio Mane to rejoin group training from Sunday onward. However, Ronaldo has opted to remain cautious and take a measured approach to avoid any risk of a setback.

Ronaldo offered an encouraging update on his recovery two days ago with an Instagram post captioned “On the ball” during a training session. With their respective rehabilitation programs now complete, head coach Jorge Jesus could have both Ronaldo and Mane available for the next match against Al Najma on Friday, April 3.

More schedule changes for Al Nassr

With the March international break now behind them, clubs are set to return to action next week, and Al Nassr are no exception. For Ronaldo, however, his comeback from injury coincides with a notable shift in the team’s fixture schedule.

The Saudi Pro League has confirmed that Al Nassr’s Matchday 29 clash against Al Ettifaq at Al Awwal Park has been moved to Wednesday, April 15, nine days earlier than its original date of Friday, April 24. As a result, the team will now face Al Najma on April 3, Al Okhdood on April 11 and Al Ettifaq on April 15 in a compressed run of fixtures.

The reshuffle also overlaps with what could be Al Nassr’s run to the AFC Champions League Two semifinals. The club is set to face Al Wasl on April 19 at Zabeel Stadium in Dubai in the single-leg quarterfinals, a format that has already drawn displeasure from the Saudi side, and the semifinals are scheduled to fall just one or two days before the original Al Ettifaq date, making it effectively impossible to fulfill both commitments under the previous schedule.

Moving the Al Ettifaq match to April 15 eases some of the congestion, but Jorge Jesus still faces a significant decision with only three days of rest before the Al Wasl quarterfinal, namely whether to prioritize the Saudi Pro League title race or manage his squad with an eye on the Champions League Two.

Marcus Thuram has been struggling with Inter, but above all in the France shirt, so scoring his first goal for Les Bleus since 2023 could be a turning point.

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The striker had only two goals at senior international level for France, failing to find the net for his country since the 14-0 victory over Gibraltar in November 2023.

That was followed by 17 consecutive matches without being on target, but that drought came to an end this evening.

Thuram finally finds net for France

Thuram scored the second goal to put France 2-0 up against Colombia in a friendly warming up for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

Marcus Thuram, Kolombiya'nın ceza sahası içerisinde çok rahat. pic.twitter.com/dnQN4o67gH

— TRT Spor (@trtspor) March 29, 2026

Tikus has struggled for Inter too recently, scoring in only the first Champions League game of the season against Ajax in September 2025.

He had just one Serie A goal since January 11, firing blanks in 14 of his last 15 club games.

Tottenham legend Jermain Defoe has been officially named the new manager of National League side Woking Football Club.

The appointment, confirmed by the club, marks Defoe’s first permanent step into senior management after building his coaching credentials within the Tottenham academy and serving as a player-coach at Rangers under Steven Gerrard.

Woking Football Club is pleased to confirm the appointment of Jermain Defoe as the club’s new Manager. ??

— Woking Football Club (@wokingfc) March 29, 2026

More Stories / Latest News

Tottenham legend officially lands managerial job after admitting he would love to manage Spurs

Mar 29 2026, 21:51

“Tottenham are going really strong for him”: Fabrizio Romano drops big Spurs managerial update

Mar 29 2026, 21:29

Igor Tudor may have won over Tottenham fans with final gesture

Mar 29 2026, 20:27

Jermain Defoe has previously revealed dream to manage Tottenham

While Defoe is fully committed to the task at hand in Surrey, he has never hidden his ultimate coaching ambitions.

Speaking previously to the Daily Mail, the prolific former striker admitted that returning to his beloved Spurs in a managerial capacity would be ‘amazing’.

He said: “It would be amazing to manage Tottenham. And the crazy thing about football is you never know. An opportunity could be around the corner.”

Defoe remains one of the most beloved figures in Tottenham’s modern history.

Over two spells at White Hart Lane, he netted 143 goals, making him the sixth-highest goalscorer in the club’s history.

While he could still land his dream role later on in his career, for now, the task in hand is a promotion push with the Cardinals, where he will look to prove he has what it takes to become a top class manager.

Spurs managerial search continues after Igor Tudor exit

The news of Defoe’s appointment comes at a chaotic time for his former club.

Tottenham are currently scouring the market for their third manager of the season following the departure of Igor Tudor on Sunday.

With Spurs sitting just one point above the Premier League relegation zone, the vacancy is seen as one of the most high-pressure roles in European football.

Roberto De Zerbi is their top target, with Spurs reportedly pushing hard to secure him immediately.

Sean Dyche, Glen Hoddle and some other names remain short-term candidates if Roberto De Zerbi is not convinced for the role at this stage.

 

The post Tottenham legend officially lands managerial job after admitting he would love to manage Spurs appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham to opt for another short-term manager if they fail to land De Zerbi

If Tottenham fail to convince De Zerbi to join a relegation dogfight immediately, the club is prepared to turn to another short-term manager for now.

As per Romano, Sean Dyche has been discussed for the role as well as some other managers.

The former Everton and Burnley boss has the experience of these high-pressure relegation battles.

For the permanent role, if De Zerbi doesn’t join, Mauricio Pochettino remains a romantic option for a permanent return.

Currently in charge of the USMNT, Pochettino is reportedly open to returning to North London regardless of their league status, but he would only be available after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup this summer.

The post “Tottenham are going really strong for him”: Fabrizio Romano drops big Spurs managerial update appeared first on CaughtOffside.

With France set to face Colombia, Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele's absence in the starting lineup raised some doubts among fans.

France and Colombia meet in one of the most compelling matchups of the March international window on Sunday at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. However, when the starting lineups were released, both Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele were notably absent from the France XI.

Neither Mbappe nor Dembele will start against Colombia, with head coach Didier Deschamps opting for a heavy rotation following the win over Brazil. The French manager has taken a completely different approach for the clash against Los Cafeteros, making wholesale changes throughout the lineup.

In fact, compared to Thursday’s starting XI against Brazil, not a single player has retained their spot for the Colombia match, including goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who has been replaced between the posts by Brice Samba.

Against Brazil, Dembele’s involvement was limited to 58 minutes before Deschamps brought on Maxence Lacroix following Dayot Upamecano’s red card. Mbappe, who opened the scoring in that match, was substituted in the 66th minute, with Marcus Thuram coming on to take his place up front.

Nos 1️⃣1️⃣ Bleus pour débuter face à la Colombie 🇨🇴✊

Coup d’envoi à 21h sur TF1 📺#FRACOL pic.twitter.com/arcK8VSop9

— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) March 29, 2026

Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo has taken the opposite approach, naming a full-strength side that includes James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz and others from the start. With a bench that still includes Mbappe and Dembele, however, Deschamps retains the element of surprise should he need to call on his biggest names.

Mbappe closes in on France’s all-time top goalscoring record

Having long since left Thierry Henry in his rearview mirror, Kylian Mbappe is now on the verge of becoming France’s all-time leading scorer. His chipped goal against Brazil last Thursday brought his tally to 56, leaving him just one shy of the record.

That record belongs to Olivier Giroud, who scored 57 goals in 137 appearances. Mbappe sits one behind with 95 caps to his name, and should he find the net against Colombia, he will become France’s all-time top scorer with the World Cup just around the corner.

Dusan Vlahovic’s current contract is set to expire on June 30, but new talks with Juventus have reportedly slowed down the negotiation process.

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It had looked for a while as if there wasn’t any hope of a new agreement, but after his return to the field after four months out injured, the two parties got back to the negotiating table.

Vlahovic talks have stalled

There was progress after the first meeting, but the second during the break for international duty showed significant problems, according to Fabrizio Romano and Calciomercato.

The issues are not just the salary, which would need to be a significant drop from the current €12m per season including bonuses.

Another concern is the commission that his agent Darko Ristic would receive, along with the bonuses for signing an extension.

If there is no agreement, then Vlahovic has no shortage of other clubs interested in pouncing on the Serbia international as a free agent.

Milan would keep him in Serie A and reunite with former Juventus coach Max Allegri, while Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also keeping an eye on the situation.

Atalanta defender Sead Kolasinac had limped off against Wales, but will reportedly be ready to start for Bosnia against Italy in Tuesday’s World Cup play-off.

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It kicks off at the Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica on Tuesday March 31 at 19.45 UK time.

Bosnia and Herzegovina held Wales to a 1-1 draw on Thursday in Cardiff, eventually winning a penalty shoot-out after extra time.

Bosnia boosted by Kolasinac recovery

Kolasinac picked up an injury an hour into that game and was therefore in doubt for the play-off final against Italy.

However, reports from today’s training session suggests that he has recovered and is ready to start the big match.

It means that coach Sergej Barbarez will have a full squad at his disposal going into that encounter with Italy.

Kolasinac is one of the Bosnia and Herzegovina players who are currently plying their trade in Serie A at club level, as he joined Atalanta from Olympique Marseille in 2023.

Others in the group include Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic and former Fiorentina striker Edin Dzeko.

San Marino faced Bosnia and Herzegovina recently, so coach Roberto Cevoli has a warning for Italy ahead of the World Cup play-off. ‘They are slow and predictable.’

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It kicks off at the Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica on Tuesday March 31 at 19.45 UK time.

The Azzurri struggled to get the better of Northern Ireland 2-0 in the semi-final, while Bosnia needed extra time and penalties to eliminate Wales in Cardiff after a 1-1 draw on Thursday.

There is some advice from Italian coach Cevoli, whose San Marino visited Bosnia in June 2025 and lost 1-0 during the World Cup qualifying group stage.

They were eventually beaten by an Edin Dzeko strike at the 66^th minute.

Italy getting ready for Bosnia

“We played in Bilino Polje on June 7, it was 32 degrees C and the heat was intense,” Cevoli told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“It’s a small stadium, falling apart at the seams. However, the stands are very close to the pitch and you can really feel the fans.”

Although San Marino eventually lost, their coach believes Bosnia won’t manage to stop Italy.

“We were still at 0-0 until 25 minutes from the end, Dzeko was on the bench wearing his sneakers, he wasn’t meant to come on, but then the coach changed his mind, and Dzeko ended up scoring the decisive goal.

“We nearly made it 1-1 at the last minute on the counter-attack. The whole stadium celebrated our mistake, but they were scared. They assumed they’d win easily at home to San Marino, but instead they ran a big risk.

“Bosnia are very slow in their movement, which is a positive for the Azzurri. We pressed them high in Zenica and doubled up on whoever had the ball.

“They are rather predictable, and don’t have anyone particularly fast, but watch out, don’t underestimate the environmental factors.”

Bosnia did learn from that experience, because they crushed San Marino 6-0 the second time in September 2025.

“Dzeko is evergreen and still decisive at age 40, but in that second game I was really impressed by Alajbegovic, who scored his first international goal against us. He runs, dribbles, is two-footed, so Italy have to keep an eye on him.”

Italy legend Marco Tardelli believes Inter midfielder Nicolò Barella is simply tired and gives him the same advice that he received from World Cup winning coach Enzo Bearzot.

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Barella is meant to be one of the core members of the Azzurri midfield, but has been struggling for form and confidence recently, both at club and international level.

He has received support from Calcio icon Tardelli, the man whose scream of celebration was the symbol of the 1982 World Cup triumph.

Tardelli recognises Barella struggle

“You can’t always be at 100 per cent, there are seasons and moments that are more difficult,” Tardelli told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“It happened to me too. Physical and emotional fatigue, you never quite know why, but three negative months don’t change an entire career.

“You just need to have patience and remember what Bearzot told me in Argentina.”

While Bearzot was the coach who won the 1982 World Cup, he was already in charge for the 1978 tournament in Argentina, when Italy reached what was effectively the semi-final, albeit in an unusual format.

“I will never forget it, in May 1978 I was falling to bits, I couldn’t even manage the easiest things,” explained Tardelli.

“Bearzot substituted me during a friendly before the World Cup in Argentina. I was so depressed, told him I understood if he no longer had faith in me, so he should leave me out.

“Instead, he replied straight away: ‘Marco, don’t talk rubbish. If you can’t manage anything else, then pass it to your teammate.’ What he meant was, just do the simple things, don’t try to over-do it.

“It all went well, that team was perhaps better than the one that took the World Cup in 1982.”

Tardelli has more advice for Barella, a player who has often been compared to the Nazionale legend.

“If I was Inter, I’d give him a month of just pure vacation. That’s enough to recharge the batteries.”

Italy still need to get into the 2026 World Cup, via Tuesday’s play-off final with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“I am sure we’ll get there, because Bosnia are not as good as Italy,” added Tardelli.

“Even if our team isn’t that strong, I get the feeling we’ll do well. I already felt it in 1982 and in 2006, because when there is pessimism and everything seems to be going against us, that’s when we react.”

Bosnia and Herzegovina international Edin Dzeko had ‘already agreed a move to Juventus’ in 2020, said his former agent, until Roma pulled the plug.

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The striker is still going strong just days after his 40^th birthday and scored the goal that took his country to a 1-1 draw with Wales on Thursday, beating them in a penalty shoot-out to set up the World Cup play-off final with Italy.

He spent a lot of his career in Serie A, representing Roma, Inter and Fiorentina before the move to Schalke 04 in January.

However, it could’ve been very different, as confirmed by his old agent Silvano Martina.

When Dzeko nearly joined Juventus

“Dzeko had already signed with Juventus,” Martina told La Stampa newspaper, via Tuttomercatoweb.

“It was all done with Fabio Paratici, but then Roma called to say they wouldn’t let him leave, because Arek Milik had failed a medical, so there was no replacement.

“He ended up going to Inter at the end of the season for free instead. Paratici couldn’t wait any longer, so he did a deal for Alvaro Morata instead.”

Dzeko is expected to start on Tuesday in the showdown for a place at the 2026 World Cup, despite the fatigue of the draw with Wales.

“He is still playing at this age because he is an incredible professional. He always runs so much, over 10km per game. Clearly, he’s lost a bit in terms of pace, but if he gets the right service, he’ll put it into the net. He’ll be particularly fired up for this match.”

Dzeko made 279 appearances in Serie A, scoring 107 goals and providing 50 assists.

He was Serie A Capocannoniere in 2017 with 29 goals, winning two Coppa Italia trophies and two editions of the Supercoppa Italiana, all with Inter.

Tottenham have officially confirmed that head coach Igor Tudor has left the club by mutual agreement, ending a disastrous 44-day tenure that has pushed the North London giants to the brink of relegation.

The announcement, made on Sunday evening, also confirmed the departures of goalkeeping coach Tomislav Rogic and physical coach Riccardo Ragnacci.

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Tudor’s brief reign will go down as one of the most difficult periods in the club’s modern history.

Tasked with steadying the ship after replacing Thomas Frank in February, the Croatian managed to win just one of his seven games in charge, a 3-2 Champions League victory over Atlético Madrid that was ultimately insufficient to prevent a 5-7 aggregate exit.

We can confirm that it has been mutually agreed for Head Coach Igor Tudor to leave the Club with immediate effect.

Tomislav Rogic and Riccardo Ragnacci have also left their respective roles of Goalkeeping Coach and Physical Coach.

We thank Igor, Tomislav and Riccardo for their… pic.twitter.com/I6HUdLdewL

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 29, 2026

Alex Crook: Igor Tudor leaves without a payoff

According to talkSPORT’s Chief Football Correspondent Alex Crook, the parting of ways was exceptionally clean from a financial perspective.

As per the journalist, Tudor has agreed to walk away from Tottenham without a termination payoff.

Sources close to Igor Tudor have told @talkSPORT he walks away from #THFC without a pay off.

— Alex Crook ??? (@alex_crook) March 29, 2026

The decision to waive a severance package suggests a mutual recognition that the appointment simply hadn’t worked.

Under Tudor, Spurs failed to win any of their five Premier League fixtures, picking up just a single point in a -1-1 draw against Liverpool while conceding 20 goals across all competitions.

While the results on the pitch were undeniably poor, the sudden nature of the decision has also been linked to a significant personal tragedy.

Tudor reportedly learned of the passing of his father, Mario, immediately following the humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest on March 22.

The club’s official statement noted the “bereavement that Igor has recently suffered,” sending their support to him and his family.

The loss of his father, coupled with the “toxic” atmosphere following the Forest debacle, is believed to have been a major factor in Tudor’s desire to step away during the international break.

What’s next for Tottenham?

With only seven games remaining, each game is a cup final for the club as they sit just one point above the relegation zone in 17th place.

Tottenham now face an emergency search for a new manager. Firefighter manager Sean Dyche has already revealed that there have been no talks with Spurs as yet.

Others linked with the role include former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi, with the club strongly interested in him.

The post Igor Tudor may have won over Tottenham fans with final gesture appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Colombia and France delivered an exciting attacking showdown. While Los Cafeteros created plenty of chances, they failed to convert them. It was a very different story for Les Bleus, as a brace from Désiré Doué led their victory, capping off a strong international break.

After a defeat against Croatia, Colombia came into the match needing a win over France. However, Les Bleus managed to prevail with an exciting attacking display, showcasing the impressive offense led by Désiré Doué and his first brace with the national team. As a result, Los Cafeteros conclude a worrying set of friendlies that raise serious competitive doubts ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Led by Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez, the Cafeteros aimed to dominate the game through quick counters and pace. However, neither managed to shine, being overshadowed by Johan Mojica, Daniel Muñoz, and Jhon Arias. In addition, Luis Suárez raised several concerns, as he failed to adapt to the attack throughout the match. Nevertheless, the second half and a few tactical adjustments helped restore their competitiveness.

After Jhon Córdoba and Juan Fernando Quintero entered the game, Colombia gained more presence in attack, as their offensive plays became more effective and ball distribution improved. Jaminton Campaz even scored a valuable goal that reflected the improvement. However, France remained solid defensively, consolidating a narrow and compact midfield that narrow gaps through numerical superiority.

¡Campaz descuenta para Colombia! 🇨🇴 pic.twitter.com/vaqUEC3FKr

— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) March 29, 2026

Despite fielding several substitutes, France remained the more dominant side throughout the match. Not only did they control the midfield, but they were also more efficient in attack. Taking advantage of spaces and defensive marking errors from Colombia, they made the difference, scoring three goals to close out the game. In addition, Marcus Thuram and Désiré Doué stood out collectively, making a clear impact.

Desire Doue and Marcus Thuram power France’s dominant attack

Taking advantage of their physical dominance, France managed to make the difference both offensively and defensively, maintaining numerical superiority in all areas. After a team move initiated by N’Golo Kanté, Marcus Thuram received the ball and found Rayan Cherki. After failing to kick the ball, Désiré Doué intercepted the ball and struck it first time, scoring a powerful goal past Álvaro Montero.

¡Llegó el gol de Francia! 💥

Doué remató al arco y con un rebote el balón terminó en las redes. ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/F3qfIcQ4iS

— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) March 29, 2026

After a powerful counterattack led by Pierre Kalulu, he found Maghnes Akliouche alone on the right flank, playing him the ball. From there, the Frenchman delivered a precise cross, finding Marcus Thuram, who beat Davinson Sánchez and Juan David Cabal in the air, heading home to score the second goal and beat Álvaro Montero once again.

¡Thuram de cabeza pone el 2-0 sobre Colombia! 💥 pic.twitter.com/33TxrrHLwJ

— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) March 29, 2026

While Colombia improved in the second half, they continued to leave significant gaps in defense. Taking advantage of this, Rayan Cherki initiated a quick counterattack, passing the ball to Marcus Thuram running down the right wing. He then played an effective pass to the left side, where Désiré Doué was unmarked. As a result, the young Frenchman was able to finish first-time and alone, securing his first brace with the national team.

¡Llegó el tercero para Francia! ⚽️⚽️⚽️

Otra vez Doué y ya es goleada sobre Colombia. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/m6qTcG8SyL

— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) March 29, 2026

Amid the scrutiny he's received over his preparation for the 2026 World Cup, Kylian Mbappe addressed the situation by mentioning Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kylian Mbappe has become a focal point of conversation given the ongoing doubts surrounding his fitness, with Real Madrid fans growing increasingly concerned about his readiness for the 2026 World Cup. Amid the scrutiny, the French striker invoked the name of Cristiano Ronaldo to address the situation.

Currently in the United States with the France national team, Mbappe found himself at the center of reports about his knee injury, with the player himself having to push back against claims of a misdiagnosis by Real Madrid’s medical staff. With the World Cup now fewer than 80 days away, speculation has also grown among fans that Mbappe might prioritize his fitness for the tournament over his club commitments with Los Blancos.

Speaking from France’s training camp, Mbappe made his commitment to Real Madrid clear in an interview with Telefoot: “In Spain, they are a bit worried about that—that I might not play… and that I’ll head straight to the World Cup. The best way to prepare is to win everything beforehand with Madrid.“

The French star went on to address how the passionate nature of the Real Madrid fanbase can amplify concern beyond what might otherwise be warranted. “The people are very passionate. For them, Real Madrid is a religion. Everything to do with the club and with me creates a combination that makes everyone talk and speculate. Sometimes with reason, sometimes without it.”

Mbappe then invoked some of the club’s all-time greats to put his own situation in perspective: “At Real Madrid, they have criticized everyone—Cristiano Ronaldo, Di Stefano… I don’t see why I should escape that kind of criticism. You have to deal with the critics. Stay calm, focus on the work, and have the confidence to believe that you can improve the situation on the pitch.“

Even Cristiano Ronaldo faced scrutiny

Despite his recent knee injury, Mbappe remains Real Madrid’s standout performer this season in front of goal. Through 35 appearances across all competitions in the 2025-26 campaign, he leads both the La Liga and UEFA Champions League scoring charts with 38 goals and six assists.

That status was once synonymous with Cristiano Ronaldo, who shattered records at Real Madrid as a goalscorer during his peak years at the club. Yet even as the team was winning back-to-back Champions League titles, the Portuguese star was not immune to criticism from the stands.

One of the most memorable episodes came in April when Real Madrid eliminated Bayern Munich, and despite Ronaldo scoring a hat-trick, he was still met with whistles from sections of the crowd. “I don’t tell them to be quiet, never, I only ask them not to whistle because I always give my best in every game. Even if I don’t score goals, I try to work hard to help Real Madrid,” he said after a Champions League quarterfinal.

Time for Mbappe to knock Bayern Munich out

Now facing a situation not unlike the one Ronaldo navigated, Mbappe is expected to be the decisive figure if Real Madrid are to go deep in the Champions League. Los Blancos face Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals over the first two weeks of April, and the Frenchman has made clear he is confident about getting past one of the competition’s most in-form sides.

“We are still involved in the two remaining competitions, La Liga and the Champions League. We are going to play against Bayern, who I believe are the most in-form team in Europe right now. But if there is one team that can beat that kind of side, it’s Real Madrid,” he said, sending a message of confidence to the club’s supporters.

Given his poor form, Ferran Torres’ future at Barcelona remains highly uncertain. With his contract set to expire in 2027, the Spaniard has caught the attention of two major Premier League clubs as a star signing.

Ferran Torres has gone from being an undisputed player at FC Barcelona to becoming a backup to Robert Lewandowski. With a contract running until 2027, the Spaniard’s future remains highly uncertain, as he has yet to renew and the Blaugrana would be open to a transfer. In this context, the 26-year-old striker is attracting interest from two major Premier League clubs, leaving his future unclear.

After starting the 2025-26 season in top form, Ferran has hit a significant slump in his performance. Having last scored on January 31 against Elche EF, the Spaniard has now gone two months without contributing a goal. As a result, Barcelona would be open to a transfer, reports Diario Sport. Given this situation, the 26-year-old striker is attracting interest from the Premier League.

According to TEAMtalk, Ferran Torres current situation at FC Barcelona has caught the attention of Manchester United and Arsenal. While his current form is not at its best, both clubs still have him on their radar since his time at Manchester City, as he can perform both as a striker and as a winger. In addition, the Blaugranas would be open to selling him if a strong offer arrives.

Red Devils are reportedly targeting Ferran Torres as the natural replacement for Joshua Zirkzee, who is expected to leave in the summer of 2026 after lacking playing time. Given his versatility and scoring ability, the Spaniard is a priority for Manchester United, alongside Iliman Ndiaye of Everton. This contrasts with Arsenal, who consider the 26-year-old star more as an option if he becomes available at a good price.

Barcelona may extend Ferran Torres deal amid Julián Álvarez uncertainty

Throughout the season, Barcelona have reportedly made Julián Álvarez a priority to strengthen their attack. However, Atlético Madrid are looking to keep him by offering a contract renewal. As a result, the Argentine’s potential move to the Blaugrana is at risk, meaning they could opt to renew Ferran Torres and rely on their current talents if they are unable to secure a top-level reinforcement.

After his re-election as president, Joan Laporta stated that the Blaugranas are in no rush to sign a striker: “We have two great center forwards, Ferran and Lewandowski, and I’m delighted with both of them,” he said, via Mundo Deportivo. With this perspective, they remain open to renewing Ferran Torres’ contract, as they do not appear ready to spend over €100 million on a new striker.

Italy changed their schedule ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup play-off in Bosnia, but it seems as if Gennaro Gattuso is not inclined to change his starting XI.

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It kicks off at the Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica on Tuesday March 31 at 19.45 UK time.

The Azzurri laboured to a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Thursday’s semi-final in Bergamo, with goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean.

Italy preparing for Bosnia trip

They had been due to fly out on Monday morning, but UEFA asked them to delay that because the pitch in Zenica is so bad that they fear two teams training on it will only cause further damage.

The situation is made worse by the weather conditions, as there has been heavy rain and on Saturday even snow.

Gattuso’s men therefore remained at the Coverciano camp today and the indications from Sky Sport Italia suggest there will be no changes to the starting XI.

It means Mateo Retegui should again be preferred to Inter striker Francesco Pio Esposito, and Matteo Politano chosen ahead of Marco Palestra.

Atalanta forward Gianluca Scamacca took part in training, having missed the semi-final with a muscular issue.

Alessandro Bastoni shook off that knock to his ankle that made him a doubt for the Northern Ireland match.

The only other possible change mentioned in the media was Bryan Cristante for Manuel Locatelli, who Gattuso had criticised for sitting too deep, but here too it looks as if the same XI is being tested out.

Italy (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Politano, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui

Christian Pulisic admits he has been going through ‘a tough patch’ with both Milan and the USMNT, but ‘a ball will hit off my knee and go in, and then things will change.’

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The striker had been on stunning form in 2025, but has not found the net for the Rossoneri at all in this calendar year, adding to an international drought that has been going since 2024.

He suffered another frustrating night when the USA warmed up for their host duties at the World Cup this summer with a 5-2 home defeat at the hands of Belgium.

Pulisic recognises difficult spell

“For me it’s disappointing,” Pulisic told reporters. “I feel I can do better on one of the chances. I missed that, and then they go and they score, and it changes the game. It’s frustrating for me for sure.”

The chance was when he ballooned over the bar at 1-1, followed moments later by Belgium taking the lead 2-1.

Now the 27-year-old is trying to think positive, despite the difficulties he is encountering in front of goal both at club and international level.

“It’s been a tough patch, but I feel confident in the way I’m playing,” he insisted.

“I feel good and I’m creating chances. So I just have to stay positive and keep going. But yeah, I have to be more clinical in those moments.”

Pulisic hopes that the old adage about goals being like a bottle of ketchup, once the blockage is over and the flow starts, it doesn’t stop, will be true in his case.

All he needs is that little bit of luck that every striker requires at a certain point in their careers.

“I know a ball will hit off my knee and go in, and then things will change. So I’m not going to panic – better now than the summer. Things are going to change.”

He has nonetheless got 10 goals and three assists in 27 official matches for Milan this season, but they all came before New Year’s Day.

Pulisic hasn’t found the net in Serie A since the 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona on December 28.

Carlos Augusto is pushing for more playing time, so could reportedly leave Inter for another Serie A adventure with Roma or Juventus.

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The 27-year-old is a Joker in the pack for Cristian Chivu, able to play in a variety of roles in a back three or on the left wing.

His current contract runs to June 2028 and he was purchased from Monza in 2024 for €13.25m.

Carlos Augusto appreciated within Serie A

So far this season, Carlos Augusto has amassed 37 competitive appearances, with two goals and two assists, but only 20 of them were in the starting XI.

According to the Corriere dello Sport, the Brazilian is frustrated at the lack of playing time and would be open to a situation with greater consistency.

Juventus had already been mentioned in recent weeks, but Roma are emerging as very strong contenders for his signature.

This is because Gian Piero Gasperini’s style of football would be suited to his talents, and they are likely to lose Zeki Celik as a free agent at the end of the season, sending Kostas Tsimikas back to Liverpool too.

Inter are seeking a player they can include in an exchange to lower the cost of their bid for midfielder Manu Koné, so along with Davide Frattesi, Carlos Augusto could also be involved in that deal.

However, the Corriere dello Sport insists this would be a separate agreement, with Inter requesting €20m for the Brazilian.

Arsenal duo Piero Hincapie and Martin Zubimendi have withdrawn from their respective national squads due to injury, leaving Mikel Arteta with a selection headache. The Gunners have now had 10 players return to north London to receive medical treatment or assessment. Hincapie left Ecuador’s squad on Sunday, having played 72 minutes of their 1-1 draw […]

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Although Cristiano Ronaldo’s inclusion on Portugal’s roster has drawn heavy criticism, his absence against Mexico was keenly felt. In light of this, José Mourinho has taken a subtle swipe at the national team, defending the veteran’s place in the starting lineup.

After securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup, Portugal scheduled a pair of friendly matches to maintain their form. However, they couldn’t rely on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is still dealing with physical issues. Consequently, they failed to defeat Mexico, prompting José Mourinho to deliver a strong critique of the national team’s performances, highlighting their dependence on the veteran striker.

“Take Cristiano Ronaldo out of the picture and Portugal look like any run-of-the-mill team… People keep asking us not to call him up. Well, he didn’t play today and you saw the result. No threat, no fear from the opposition. Just a team being put under pressure by Mexico… When Ronaldo is on the pitch, the opposition think twice. Without him, they don’t think at all,” José Mourinho said, as per TUDN Mexico.

Despite being 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the essential piece of the national team, standing as the top scorer in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. However, his absence against Mexico national team exposed a harsh reality: They do not have a promising goalscorer to replace the veteran, as Gonçalo Ramos and Paulinho have yet to truly shine.

Far from being a criticism of Cristiano, José Mourinho has consistently defended the veteran against fans calling for him to be dropped following the strong result against Armenia. Gonçalo Ramos has yet to take off in his career, as he remains a regular substitute at Paris Saint-Germain and with Portugal, without making a real scoring impact, but coach Roberto Martínez continues to call him up as a backup.

Joao Félix could emerge as Portugal’s scoring solution

Despite the fact that Portugal do not have many promising center-forwards, coach Roberto Martínez could still have a solution to their scoring struggles when Cristiano Ronaldo is absent. Amid the poor form of Gonçalo Ramos and Paulinho, João Félix could emerge as a strong alternative, but within a specific setup that could even boost Francisco Conceição and Rafael Leão.

Switching to a ‘false 9’ formation could position João Félix as the solution, given his impressive scoring form and peak performance with Al Nassr. This change would allow coach Martínez to grant more freedom to Leão and Conceição, enabling them to leverage their dribbling skills and pace to make a difference. With Cristiano Ronaldo now 41 years old, these adjustments may soon become a need for Portugal.

Cristiano Ronaldo may not retire after 2026 World Cup

With a contract with Al Nassr running through 2027, Cristiano Ronaldo may not retire from professional soccer after the 2026 World Cup. With this, he could extend his time with Portugal for a few more matches, in which he will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. The veteran could be instrumental in the transition up front, helping Joao Félix or even Gonçalo Ramos lead the way into a new era.

Former Italy players Antonio Di Natale and Alberico Evani both encourage Gennaro Gattuso to start Francesco Pio Esposito in the World Cup play-off with Bosnia.

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It kicks off at the Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica on Tuesday March 31 at 19.45 UK time.

Pio Esposito pushing for Italy start

There are likely to be changes from the side that beat Northern Ireland 2-0 in the semi-final, the main one perhaps seeing Esposito preferred to Mateo Retegui.

“I would always put Pio Esposito in the starting XI,” former Udinese and Italy striker Di Natale told reporters at an event in Rome.

“The important thing is that Italy go back to the World Cup.”

The 20-year-old has flourished in the Inter senior squad this season with nine goals and six assists in 40 competitive games.

His Italy record is also impressive, finding the net three times in just six senior caps after being a stalwart for the Under-21 team.

“You can tell his potential and despite being very young, he is playing regularly for an important club like Inter without suffering from the pressure,” added Evani in Tuttosport and Tuttomercatoweb.

“He can become a player of the highest level.”

Italy faltered in the World Cup play-offs for 2018 and 2022, so Evani notes the biggest problem for coach Gattuso.

“The first opponent is time, because you just don’t have any. The players arrived on Sunday at the camp after club duty, so on Monday didn’t do any real training, and then had to play on Thursday.

“All you can do in that time is choose the players most suited to your ideas, but it’s not easy to unite results and entertainment. Talent makes the difference in those situations.”

Reports are growing that Milan and Paris Saint-Germain are interested in Marcus Rashford if Barcelona don’t buy him outright from Manchester United.

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The 28-year-old is under contract with Manchester United until June 2028, but is on loan at Barcelona until the end of the season with a purchase option worth €30m.

He has revitalised his career with 10 goals and 13 assists in 39 competitive appearances for the Blaugrana, but that does not necessarily mean the club will make it a permanent move.

Rashford at a career crossroads

There are other alternatives if that doesn’t happen, as Mundo Deportivo in Spain and Caught Offside in England both point towards Milan and PSG.

The Rossoneri already have quite a few England internationals in their squad, such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Fikayo Tomori.

They are also looking for a new striker, as Santiago Gimenez has disappointed, while Niclas Fullkrug probably won’t be purchased outright after his loan from West Ham United.

It is also not the first time that Rashford has been linked with a potential Serie A move to Milan.

There are concerns that Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo could be out for another month, as his injury is more serious than previously thought.

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The right-back has been out of action since suffering a knee injury on January 31 and was expected to return after the break for international duty.

Di Lorenzo missed by Napoli

However, Cronache di Napoli and Tuttomercatoweb both suggest that the recovery process is taking longer than previously believed.

He could be out of action until the end of April, forcing him to miss much of the remaining season with a Scudetto race in full swing.

Di Lorenzo has made 32 competitive appearances so far this term, contributing one goal and three assists for Antonio Conte’s side.

This isn’t the only concern for Napoli, who are also facing the rebellion of Romelu Lukaku, who is refusing to return from Belgium early after withdrawing from international duty.

Multiple reports suggest that if he is not back in Naples by Tuesday morning, the club will freeze him out as punishment.

Former Juventus coach Igor Tudor has officially left Tottenham Hotspur after just seven games in charge, meaning he has been dropped by two clubs in one season.

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The decision had been expected following one draw and four defeats in the Premier League, but was delayed by a week so that he could mourn the sudden death of his father.

Tottenham sack ex-Juventus boss Tudor

A formal statement on the Tottenham website confirms this was “mutually agreed” for him to leave, taking goalkeeping coach Tomislav Rogic and Physical Coach Riccardo Ragnacci with him.

He had only taken the job on February 14, overseeing one 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid, one draw and five losses in all competition.

Tudor had also been sacked by Juventus on October 27, the natural conclusion to a run of five draws and three consecutive defeats in all competition.

The Croatian spent most of his career in Italy, first as a player with Juventus and Siena from 1998 to 2007, then as a coach with experiences at Udinese, Verona, Lazio and Juve.

We can confirm that it has been mutually agreed for Head Coach Igor Tudor to leave the Club with immediate effect.

Tomislav Rogic and Riccardo Ragnacci have also left their respective roles of Goalkeeping Coach and Physical Coach.

We thank Igor, Tomislav and Riccardo for their… pic.twitter.com/I6HUdLdewL

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 29, 2026

According to multiple reports, Adam Wharton will be looking to move on from Crystal Palace this summer, and a number of clubs are said to be watching the situation closely. Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are the three mentioned most frequently in that aspect, but the Premier League trio of giants now faces the […]

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According to multiple reports, Adam Wharton will be looking to move on from Crystal Palace this summer, and a number of clubs are said to be watching the situation closely. Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are the three mentioned most frequently in that aspect, but the Premier League trio of giants now faces the […]

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There are farewells in football that feel inevitable, and then there are those that feel seismic. Mohamed Salah’s announcement that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the 2025–26 season belongs firmly in the latter category. After nine years at Anfield, Salah is not just departing a football club; he is closing a chapter […]

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According to multiple reports, Adam Wharton will be looking to move on from Crystal Palace this summer, and a number of clubs are said to be watching the situation closely. Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are the three mentioned most frequently in that aspect, but the Premier League trio of giants now faces the […]

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Colombia and France face off in their final friendly match of this doubleheader of international friendlies. While the Cafeteros are coming off a painful defeat, the Blues are in top form. As a result, the game is shaping up to be a close contest. Here are the predicted lineups for both sides.

Looking to be in top form for the 2026 World Cup, Colombia and France face off in their final match of doubleheader of international friendlies at FedEx Field. However, the two teams are in very different form. While the Cafeteros are coming off a loss and need a win to dispel any doubts, the Blues are riding an eight-game unbeaten streak and are in top form.

Colombia have established as one of the most solid national teams in CONMEBOL. However, they do not arrive in their best form, as they are coming off a loss to Croatia. In addition, the Cafeteros have struggled to be clinical in attack, facing serious issues converting their chances, despite the good form of Luis Suárez and Luis Díaz in European leagues.

Far from their problems ending there, the Cafeteros’ main figure, James Rodríguez, arrives lacking match sharpness after several months without a club and having only recently joined MLS. As a result, the team’s creative output takes a significant hit, which they will look to overcome by defeating France—something they achieved in their last meeting in 2018.

France enter the match as the clear favorite to defeat Colombia. Having racked up eight consecutive wins, they have managed to remain one of the most dominant teams in the world. Furthermore, Les Bleus boast impressive depth on the bench, meaning they don’t rely solely on Kylian Mbappé or Ousmane Dembélé; instead, they can adjust their play as they see fit and give their stars a rest.

Colombia confirmed lineup vs France

While Colombia are coming off a loss, they have managed to enter today’s match without any serious injuries. Given this, coach Nestor Lorenzo is sticking with a similar lineup, centered around James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz. Additionally, they might look to start Luis Suárez again, hoping he’ll showcase his top-tier talent. Along with this, Álvaro Montero could see some playing time as the goalkeeper, giving Camilo Vargas a rest.

The Cafeteros lineup as follows: Álvaro Montero; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sanchez, Juan David Cabal, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Richard Rios; Jhon Arias, James Rodríguez, Luis Diaz; Luis Suárez.

France confirmed lineup vs Colombia

After impressing against Brazil, France is making drastic changes to their lineup, leaving Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé on the bench. With this, coach Didier Deschamps gives to Marcus Thuram and Maghnes Akliouche. In addition, the presence of Adrien Rabiot is in doubt, as a knock kept him out of the last training session. Because of this, Warren Zaire-Emery is jumping to the starting lineup.

Les Bleus’ lineup to face Colombia is the following: Brice Samba; Pierre Kalulu, Maxence Lacroix, Lucas Hernandez, Lucas Digne; N’Golo Kanté, Warren Zaire-Emery, Maghnes Akliouche; Rayan Cherki, Marcus Thuram, Desire Doue.

Colombia will face France in a 2026 international friendly. Here’s all the key information you need, including kickoff time and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

Fresh off a statement 2-1 victory over Brazil, World Cup runner-up France heads into its next international friendly riding serious momentum, with superstar Kylian Mbappe continuing to lead a squad that looks firmly in championship form.

Standing in their way is Colombia, eager to bounce back after a 2-1 loss to Croatia, as Luis Diaz and company search for a response against one of the toughest opponents on the global stage. With both teams bringing elite talent and something to prove, this friendly promises to be a must-watch showdown.

Former Bologna player Dan Ndoye is open to leaving Nottingham Forest for a return to Serie A for Inter or Napoli. ‘We’ll see what happens at the end of the season.’

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The Swiss international had made his mark with Bologna from 2023 to 2025, earning a €42m plus bonuses move to Nottingham Forest.

However, it didn’t quite go as planned, because although he has 34 competitive appearances for them this term, contributing two goals and two assists, his last Premier League start was in December.

Ndoye wants more playing time

“I am not getting many minutes at club level, but I proved for Switzerland that I have some quality,” Ndoye told RTS during international duty.

“When I get the opportunity to play, I always give my all.”

He also spoke to Sport Mediaset after scoring for Switzerland in a friendly against Germany, and was asked about the reported interest from Inter and Napoli.

“Right now I am focused only on Switzerland and Nottingham Forest, we’ll see what happens at the end of the season, because we don’t know what will happen in future.

“I made a choice to go to England, I’m pretty happy there, but we’ll see at the end of the season.”

If Italy get through the play-offs against Bosnia and Herzegovina, they will face Switzerland in the World Cup group stage.

“I have friends in the Italy side, like Calafiori and Cambiaghi. They are a great team, I watched the match against Northern Ireland.

“I have no preferences between Italy and Bosnia, but seeing Italy at the World Cup is always a positive,” concluded Ndoye.

Manuel Locatelli has become the target of criticism from some Juventus supporters on social media after going for dinner with a number of Inter first-team stars while away in camp with the Italy national team. 

Some Juventus fans angered by Locatelli dinner with Inter and Italy teammates

Italy beat Northern Ireland 2-0 in their World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland on Thursday evening, and will now be tasked with an away match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night as they look to secure a place at the final 2026 tournament. 

The Azzurri players were given a night off on Friday, the day after the Northern Ireland victory, and a number of Gennaro Gattuso’s players were photographed having dinner together at the Ristorante Tullio near to Italy’s Coverciano training base in Florence. 

There were a core of Inter players in attendance: Pio Esposito, Federico Dimarco, Nicolo Barella and Alessandro Bastoni were photographed, along with Juventus captain Locatelli and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who has been strongly linked with a move to join the Nerazzurri from Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

However, the fact that Locatelli decided to sit down and agree to be photographed with a number of Inter players, Juventus’s fiercest rivals, has angered a number of Bianconeri supporters on social media. 

Tensions between the two clubs have been particularly intense over the last two months following the fiery Derby d’Italia between the two sides in February, when Alessandro Bastoni escaped punishment for diving, and instead passionately celebrated the incorrect decision to send off Juve’s Pierre Kalulu. 

One supporter on X wrote: “Today’s Juventus perfectly represented by its captain. After tough seasons, he was regaining his place in the hearts of the fans. Then, you see him in a photo with ‘those’ guys who took you for a ride just one month ago.” 

“What sort of a captain,” one supporter questioned. Another wrote: “And this is the captain of Juventus FC. Get out of here you piece of human s***.”

Another Juventus supporter labelled Locatelli’s association with the Inter players as a “crime of friendship.”

Unsurprisingly, some Inter supporters have taken the opportunity to goad some of their rival supporters, with comments such as “the worst player in the world surrounded by the strongest,” or, more kindly “Welcome to Inter 2026-27, Locatelli.” 

Not all Juventus supporters agree on the Locatelli photo, though. Some feel that the suggestion that their captain is some sort of ‘traitor’ because he went for dinner with some of his international teammates is ridiculous. 

“You know that supporters like you are the reason why we haven’t won anything for years,” one fan replied to one of the aforementioned posts.

“It’s difficult to find a stupider post than this one, but there you have it. Another example of how part of the Juventus fanbase has sunk even lower in these recent years without victories,” another added. 

“Next time they’re in camp, he’ll only talk to Cambiaso and Gatti to improve the vibe in the dressing room. Poor Kean, though, he’ll end up talking to the walls given that he doesn’t have any teammates from Fiorentina,” an Inter fan jokingly suggested.

If Inter do sell Alessandro Bastoni to Barcelona, then their primary target to replace him is reportedly Arsenal and Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori, with a price-tag mentioned.

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Multiple sources in Spain and Italy have confirmed that Bastoni is the first choice for Barcelona to reinforce their defence over the summer, and it will require circa €80m to prise him away from San Siro.

It could include a player in part-exchange, making it more likely to go through.

Calafiori candidate for Inter defence

Inter are therefore forced to consider replacing the core of their back three, and L’Interista maintain the ideal option is Calafiori.

He turns 24 in May and is an Italy international just like Bastoni, who similarly holds a hybrid role between centre-back and left-back.

Arsenal paid €43.7m plus up to €5m in bonuses to sign Calafiori from Bologna in the summer of 2024, but injury problems and strong competition has seen him make only 29 competitive appearances this season, with just 22 from the start.

According to this report, Arsenal would be prepared to sell the Italian for €50m, so still making a small profit.

Inter would also encourage Calafiori to play in the role he feels most comfortable in rather than as a pure left-back.

This is a very ambitious idea for the Nerazzurri, who generally try to keep costs low, but Bastoni’s sale would generate a huge profit.

Lorenzo Pellegrini will be a free agent from June 30, but there are reports he could agree a new Roma deal with a massive pay cut.

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The midfielder turns 30 in June, just a couple of weeks before his contract is due to expire and he’ll be free to choose his next destination.

Pellegrini spent a lifetime at Roma

It would be a wrench for him to leave the Stadio Olimpico, as he spent practically his entire career in the Giallorossi jersey, from their youth academy to wearing the captain’s armband, save for a spell at Sassuolo from 2015 to 2017.

Despite not initially being part of new coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s plans, Pellegrini managed to make 31 competitive appearances this season, scoring six goals with four assists.

According to Retesport, Pellegrini has not lost hope of a new contract with Roma, although it would require a significant cut from his current salary of €4.5m per season plus €2m in bonuses.

If he was to stay, then those wages would be cut down to at most €2.5m per season.

The player does have other alternatives, as Juventus and Inter have both been linked with a swoop for the free agent.

Lazio President Claudio Lotito has reportedly frozen all decisions on new contracts and the future of coach Maurizio Sarri until June.

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The next couple of months will decide what the budget and plans will be for the Biancocelesti, as their best hope for qualifying for a UEFA competition is via the Coppa Italia.

The first leg of the semi-final against Atalanta ended 2-2, while they are on impressive Serie A form to climb back up the table with three consecutive victories.

Lazio tension behind the scenes

However, the problems remain off the field, where Sarri never misses an opportunity to warn he only remained for the fans after being surprised with a transfer embargo in the summer.

According to the Corriere dello Sport, Lotito is pulling the purse strings tight again, refusing to even discuss new contracts with the players whose deals expire in June 2027.

That includes Alessio Romagnoli, Mario Gila, Matteo Cancellieri, Danilo Cataldi, Luca Pellegrini, Manuel Lazzari, Ivan Provedel, Patric and Samuel Gigot.

There are also three who will be free agents this summer, and of those only Toma Basic has a chance of potentially agreeing an extension.

Pedro and Elseid Hysaj are all set to leave.

Meanwhile, the fans had suspended their protest for the showdown with Milan, with coach Sarri and the players assuring they played a big part in that 1-0 win.

It was only a one-off, because the boycott of the Stadio Olimpico will resume for the next Serie A home fixture with Parma on Saturday April 4.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, only 1,000 tickets have been sold and not many more are expected in the stadium.

Federico Gatti says that Italy have to block out distractions, keep the talking to a minimum and focus on themselves heading into Tuesday evening’s crucial World Cup play-off final away against Bosnia and Herzegovina: ‘We will play for the nation’. 

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Italy are two days away from their decisive World Cup play-off final away against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which will determine whether the national team qualifies for the final tournament or misses out for the third cycle in a row. 

The Azzurri have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014 and have not played in a knock-out game at the tournament since beating France in the final to win the whole thing back in 2006. 

Gennaro Gattuso’s side finished second in their qualifying group behind Norway, which condemned them to the play-offs for the third time in a row. They have since beaten Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo, while Bosnia beat Wales on penalties to set up Tuesday’s play-off final tie. 

“The most important thing was to win and to get through to the final. Now we’ll give everything in this match, on the pitch or off it, we’re preparing as best as we can,” said Gatti in an interview with Rai Sport ahead of Tuesday’s play-off decider (via TMW). 

Gatti on Italy pressure, Bosnia hostility and Dzeko challenge

Italy got the job done with second half goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean against Northern Ireland, but the first half did not make for particularly comfortable viewing for Azzurri supporters. Many have suggested that the ‘ghosts’ of their previous play-off semi-final defeat against North Macedonia in 2022 was starting to creep into some of the players’ minds. 

“I didn’t experience them personally, but there was and still is a certain atmosphere, the weight of a country on your shoulders,” Gatti said. “But we also need some lightness. We play a lot, but we have to approach this as best as possible without wasting too much energy in the days before.

“Now we’ve got a fundamental match coming up and we need to find all the possible energy to put into it. I’m sure that there will be that spirit of wanting to die for our teammates, and with that, we’ll always get results. 

“Things will speak for themselves on the pitch, it will be a very tough game. I’ve never played in Bosnia before, but they tell me that the pitch is small, the fans are intense, it will be a real man’s challenge.” 

Gatti believes that the Italy team is in the right hands with Gennaro Gattuso in charge: “The coach has brought sparkle and energy. The results help to bring the group together. It has to be a journey.” 

Gatti is well aware that Italy will be met by a hostile atmosphere when they travel to Zenica: “Yes, but we have to focus on ourselves,” he said. 

“I don’t like to talk before games, nowadays everyone is able to judge for themselves. This is a match that could change our future. We have to look at it from that perspective and that’s it. Let’s leave the talking to others.” 

And on the conditions that awaits the Italy players in Bosnia, he said:  “I’ve played on worse pitches. I don’t know what the conditions will be like, but we have to be ready for anything. The match is so important and what will be will be, but we have to give it 110%.” 

Lastly, Gatti was asked about the prospect of a challenge with the legendary Edin Dzeko on Tuesday night. 

“I played against him at Juventus in his first year at Inter,” he said. “He’s a very strong striker, his career speaks for itself. We will look for the energy we need to bring home a result that could change all of our futures, and we will play for the nation.” 

It’s considered likely that Cole Palmer could look for a transfer out of Chelsea this summer amid links with Manchester United.

That’s the view of journalist Julien Laurens, speaking on Sky Sports, as he and others discussed the transfer strategy at Stamford Bridge.

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It seems like Palmer and others have been signed by Chelsea with the primary focus being on making a profit.

This could mean the Blues would listen to offers for the England international, though Laurens can’t see anyone paying as much as £150m for him, as has been suggested would be his asking price…

''It's likely that he'd want to leave Chelsea for sure''

The Sunday Supplement assess Chelsea's project and its potential impact on Cole Palmer's future at the club ? pic.twitter.com/JBlxxb1K3q

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 29, 2026

“It’s likely that he’d want to leave Chelsea, for sure,” Laurens said.

“I think the project worked for him when he arrived, in terms of having that game time in the Premier League … but now the Chelsea project is not really going in the right direction.”

Could Cole Palmer leave Chelsea for a transfer to Manchester United?

Palmer started his career at Manchester City and it may be that he’s keen to move back up north at some point.

The Sun have reported again that the 23-year-old is unsettled at CFC, linking him mainly with Man United, as well as other big names in Europe such as Real Madrid.

Still, there’s no doubt Palmer has gone off the boil a little in recent months, and one imagines there won’t be too many teams out there who’d pay crazy money for him.

Given that Palmer has a Chelsea contract until 2033, there’s no pressure on them to accept offers they’re not happy with, so that could make it tricky for him even if he does want to leave.

Chelsea facing important summer

Chelsea’s project doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, and it perhaps makes sense that we’re seeing reports of players wanting out.

As well as speculation about Palmer, there’s also growing talk of Enzo Fernandez possibly pushing for an exit, as reported by Simon Phillips and others.

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It’s surely vital for Chelsea to keep players like Palmer and Fernandez, who have mostly performed very well since joining the club.

Most of their other signings in the BlueCo era have not been as successful, so this project surely cannot go anywhere if those two end up moving on.

The post It’s “likely” this Man United transfer target would want to leave current club, says journalist appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Roma are increasingly concerned that the injury Wesley sustained on international duty with Brazil could be serious, while Zeki Celik’s condition is more reassuring.

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The Giallorossi were already struggling with an injury crisis going into the break for international duty, but with a huge game against leaders Inter coming up, the situation has deteriorated further.

Roma crisis intensifies with Wesley blow

Wesley had started in Brazil’s friendly defeat to France, but was sent home early with a muscular injury in his right thigh.

More tests are required for a clearer picture, but the Corriere dello Sport warns the wing-back will certainly miss the Inter clash, and could be out for a while longer too.

There are reports of a lesion to the thigh muscle, which would mean several weeks on the treatment table.

It’d be particularly poor timing, because Wesley risks missing Roma’s big matches against Atalanta and Bologna, which could be decisive for Champions League qualification.

Meanwhile, Celik pulled out of Turkiye’s match against Romania, but tests showed no lesions, so he is already back in training ahead of the World Cup play-off final with Kosovo.

Transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano reassures that Scott McTominay is totally focused on Napoli, despite rumours he was talking to Saudi Pro League clubs.

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The midfielder has already become a legend since joining the club in the summer of 2024 from Manchester United, winning the Serie A title and Supercoppa Italiana.

He has continued that extraordinary form this season, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists in 36 competitive games.

Napoli only priority for McTominay

McTominay’s current contract runs to June 2028, so there were rumours circulating of interest from Premier League sides, including a potential return to Manchester United, as well as the Saudi Pro League.

However, transfer pundit Romano points out there are no discussions currently taking place with the Saudi teams, and his “focus remains on Napoli.”

The Scotland international turned 29 in December and is preparing for the World Cup this summer in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

In a concerning update for Milan, France national team head coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed that Adrien Rabiot will not feature against Colombia on Sunday evening after missing training with a knee issue. 

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Rabiot to miss France friendly with knock to knee

Rabiot was named as a starter for France’s 2-1 victory over Brazil in an international friendly on Thursday evening, but will not feature when Les Bleues take on Colombia at 20.00 BST on Sunday. 

Deschamps has confirmed that Rabiot has suffered a knock to his knee in training and that he was not involved in his national side’s final session ahead of the Colombia friendly on Sunday evening. 

“As a precaution, Rabiot didn’t participate in training because he suffered a blow to his knee,” Deschamps confirmed. 

According to Calciomercato.com, Rabiot’s absence from the France squad is on precautionary grounds, however, this was also the case when he came back from international duty with a calf problem in October. 

Rabot started and scored in France’s first game of the international break in October, but then missed the second on precautionary grounds due to a problem with his calf. However, once he returned to Milan, he then went on to miss five league fixtures as a result of the calf issue. 

It remains to be seen whether the 30-year-old will be forced to miss any action at club level as a result of the latest knock to his knee.

1982 World Cup winner and former CT Dino Zoff is one of the latest stars to condemn the viral video clip that showed a handful of Italy players celebrating Bosnia and Herzegovina’s penalty shoot-out victory against Wales in their World Cup play-off semi-final, but says that he is ‘optimistic’ that the Azzurri will still qualify for the final tournament. 

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Italy beat Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo in Thursday’s World Cup play-off semi-final, while Bosnia defeated Wales after a penalty shoot-out in Cardiff just over half an hour later. 

As Italy got the job done in regular time, the players were already back inside and watching along on screens as Kerim Alajbegovic converted the winning spot kick at the Cardiff City stadium. 

Footage of the Italy players’ reactions, focusing on Federico Dimarco, Guglielmo Vicario and Pio Esposito, were shown on Rai’s live TV broadcast in Italy and the clip has since been shared thousands of times on social media. 

Dimarco and Vicario were seen pumping their fists and patting each other on the backs as Bosnia eliminated Wales, and while their exact motivation remains unclear, there were accusations of ‘disrespect’ and ‘arrogance’ and concerns that the footage has only served as an additional bit of motivation for the Bosnia squad heading into Tuesday’s play-off final. 

Dimarco has since come out in a press conference and has insisted that he meant no disrespect by his actions, and claimed that he and his teammates can’t be arrogant given that Italy haven’t qualified for the World Cup for 12 years. 

• Read more: Dimarco unwise to celebrate, but televising incident only harms Italy

Zoff on Italy’s celebration video and chances of qualifying for the World Cup

“I’m optimistic: Italy will get to the World Cup,” said legendary former Italy and Juventus goalkeeper Zoff in an interview with Il Giornale. “It was important to win against Northern Ireland. Two goals were enough, even if they didn’t shine.” 

Zoff was asked for his opinions on the now infamous clip of Dimarco and Vicario celebrating Bosnia’s penalty shoot-out victory. 

He said: “It’s an attitude that I didn’t like. It wasn’t a positive given that it will fire up the opponents even more ahead of the challenge against us. I would have behaved differently.” 

Zoff went on to express his excitement at the qualities that Inter forward Pio Esposito has to offer. 

“I like him a lot. He has great potential and could play for the national team for many years. He’s impressed me a lot, not only from a technical point of view, but from every angle. Pio’s a strong player and his behaviour on the pitch is already very mature as well, despite his age.”

But, there is another striker that Zoff thinks will score the goal that takes Italy to the World Cup. 

“I’d say Kean. I thought he did very well against Northern Ireland and scored a very good goal.”

There has been yet another Arsenal player withdrawing from international duty as Piero Hincapie joins Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Noni Madueke as fitness concerns for the Gunners.

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Mikel Arteta’s side have been plagued with injuries for much of the season, with big names like Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz missing large chunks of the campaign.

Meanwhile, other key players like Gabriel Magalhaes and Riccardo Calafiori have had spells out, while Eberechi Eze missed the Carabao Cup final through injury and might not be returning that soon.

According to James Benge, Hincapie now has an unspecified issue after “medical tests” and has left the Ecuador squad…

Following medical tests, Piero Hincapie has withdrawn from the Ecuador squad ahead of their friendly against the Netherlands.

— James Benge (@jamesbenge) March 29, 2026

Arsenal fans will hope this isn’t too serious and that both clubs and national teams are just being careful at this late stage of the season, with so many big games coming up between now and May, while there’s then also the World Cup in the summer.

Arsenal injuries – what we know so far

Arsenal can’t afford to lose so many players at once as they look to keep their lead at the top of the Premier League table, and it certainly seems far from ideal that Madueke had to go off in England’s game against Uruguay.

According to the Evening Standard, the injury to Madueke looks like a more serious concern than the likes of Rice and Saka.

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Their report suggests that Rice and Saka withdrawing from England duty was more of a precaution, with the pair expected back for either the upcoming FA Cup tie against Southampton, or the Champions League quarter-final clash with Sporting Lisbon a few days afterwards.

There is similar optimism on William Saliba, who withdrew from the France squad, but it’s less clear how serious Gabriel’s latest setback is after he was missing from Brazil duty.

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Chelsea and Arsenal registered an interest in the transfer of Nico Paz, but he always intended to return to Real Madrid after his spell at Como, as first reported here for the Daily Briefing.

Los Blancos will activate their buy-back clause for the 21-year-old this summer, despite other top clubs also asking about his situation.

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Real Madrid now plan to build around someone they believe will be one of the game’s next big things next season after seeing off competition from the Premier League.

Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City all enquired about this superb talent, only to be told in no uncertain terms that his only intention was to return to Real Madrid.

Sources close to Real Madrid tell me that “Paz only ever wanted to come back to Real Madrid. He’s been promised a key first-team role. They believe he’s the next superstar of world football.”

Nico Paz Premier League transfer snub revealed by sources

I’m also told that Paz had interest from other big clubs, with the 21-year-old having been firmly on Chelsea’s radar for some time.

I first reported here back in September that Chelsea were expected to push for Paz, and I’m told that an enquiry was indeed made, but was unsuccessful.

Sources in the industry have since informed me that Chelsea were not alone, with Arsenal and Manchester City also looking into Paz’s situation and also being turned down by the Argentina international.

“Chelsea were really keen to sign Paz, he’s just the kind of profile they’re looking for,” my source said. “Arsenal and Man City have also watched him and been very impressed. Real Madrid have done really well to secure his future.”

What next for Nico Paz?

Paz initially looked like struggling to break into the Real Madrid team in his first spell at the Bernabeu, but the club always felt there was a big chance he could raise his game with more experience.

With time, that’s precisely what’s happened with the talented young playmaker during his time in Serie A, and the €9m buy-back clause looks like an absolute bargain for a player many in the game feel will soon be worth €100m or more.

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Paz has 17 goals in 68 games in all competitions in his two seasons with Como, drawing comparisons with Barcelona midfield gem Pedri.

It’s not been the best season for Real Madrid this term, so they’ll hope that Paz can come back and make a big impact, perhaps as an upgrade on the likes of Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler, who have not really performed consistently enough.

The post Sources: Why football’s “next superstar” snubbed Chelsea & Arsenal transfer interest appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Matteo Politano insists that Italy ‘deserve’ to get to the 2026 World Cup but says that he and his teammates have to prove their worth on the pitch first, and has emplored supporters to ‘stay with’ the national team and to cheer them on through their final challenge against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night. 

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Politano previews Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Italy World Cup play-off final

Italy is the highest-ranked nation in the world not to have a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped up. They finished second behind Norway in their qualification group, which condemned them to the play-offs for the third tournament cycle in a row. 

Since then, Italy have beaten Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo in order to qualify for Tuesday’s play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who beat Wales on penalties in Cardiff on Thursday night to complete the tie. This match will be played in Zenica on Tuesday evening at 19.45 BST.

“The guys are focussed, we’re happy after achieving this first goal, now we have a couple of days to recover our strength and prepare as best as we can for this battle,” said Politano in an interview with Vivo Azzurro TV (via TMW). 

Italy looked a touch nervous during their first half against Northern Ireland on Thursday evening, but the pressure seemed to lift the second that Sandro Tonali’s second-half strike hit the back of the net. 

“It was essential for us to free ourselves from the weight we had on us during that game,” the Napoli winger said. “There was fear and we saw some ghosts in the first half. But we broke the deadlock after we scored, we did it the right way.” 

He continued: “We’re doing well. We’re calm even though we’re aware of what we’re playing for. Especially for me and some of the others who are no longer young guys, it’s the last opportunity we have and we’re particularly keen to take advantage of it.” 

Tuesday’s opponents, Bosnia, have a core of Serie A-experienced players at their disposal including the likes of Edin Dzeko, Sead Kolasinac and Tariq Muharemovic. 

“It has a bit of an effect,” Politano admitted. “Someone like Dzeko is experienced but we have to focus on ourselves and our game more than on the opponent.” 

Politano was asked what he thinks Italy need to do in order to overcome Bosnia on Tuesday night. He said: “To start strong from the first minute, without being affected by the opponent or the environment. We have to think about giving our best and do our talking on the pitch.” 

The current Italy squad is led by Politano’s former Napoli head coach, Gennaro Gattuso. 

“Rino cares a lot about the group and the fact that we all have to be heading in the same direction, that everyone thinks in the same, healthy way. He’s a motivator and asks the best from everyone in training and in matches. I think he’s even more fired up than he was at Napoli.” 

And on the pressure that is on the national team’s shoulders heading into Tuesday’s play-off final, Politano said: “We’ve had it for a couple of months. We deserve to go to the World Cup, but we have to prove it on the pitch by giving 100%. I’m sure that we will succeed.” 

And when asked if he has a final message for the Italy national team supporters ahead of the crucial play-off final, Politano said: “To stay with us, we will give our best. Cheer us and push us on.” 

Sunday’s reports claim that at least seven Juventus players will be put up for sale during the upcoming summer transfer window, including three signings that were brought in at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign. 

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Which players are expected to leave Juventus this summer?

The Bianconeri still have a long way to go in Serie A this season, sitting in fifth place, three points behind Como in the top four positions. The Old Lady have eight games remaining to secure their goal of Champions League qualification.

Juventus also have plenty of work to do behind the scenes, including arranging new contracts for head coach Luciano Spalletti and for striker Dusan Vlahovic, whose hefty €12m-per-season contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season. 

As well as looking at potential incomings, Juventus are also hoping to sell a number of first-team players during the off-season after a somewhat underwhelming season. 

The goalkeeping department is an area that the Bianconeri will look to address this summer after a series of unconvincing performances from Michele Di Gregorio, who will almost certainly be sold if an appropriate offer comes in. As per Corriere dello Sport, the former Monza stopper is more likely to be moved on than Mattia Perin, but his long-term future in Turin is not exactly guaranteed either. 

Centre-forward is the other area of the Juventus side that is due a complete overhaul. Summer signings Jonathan David and Lois Openda have not lived up to expectations and it seems like their careers at the Allianz Arena are already over. 

The sale of David is less likely to cause an issue for the Old Lady. Recent reports claim that he has suitors back in Ligue 1, and recouping a fee for the Canada international should be less of an issue given that he arrived on a free transfer last summer. 

The situation surrounding Openda is more complicated, however, as Juventus signed him on loan with a €42m obligation to buy last summer, and finding a new buyer at those prices after a disappointing 2025-26 season will be a tough task. 

Elsewhere, full-back Joao Mario, currently on loan with Bologna, is expected to leave the club this summer. Reports from Corriere dello Sport claim that Juventus will also sell Italy international Andrea Cambiaso should an enticing offer come in. 

Filip Kostic’s contract is expiring and he will also be allowed to leave on a free transfer once the current season comes to an end. 

Lastly, Corriere dello Sport claims that Juventus will entertain offers for a third summer signing in Edon Zhegrova, who has struggled to put injury and fitness issues behind him during his first season in Serie A. Sunday’s report claims that there is interest in him in Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga.

Antonio Conte has taken a fine but has avoided any form of suspension after the controversial comments he made towards referee Gianluca Manganiello during Napoli’s Coppa Italia exit at the hands of Como in February. 

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Conte escapes suspension after calling referee a d***head

Napoli were eliminated on penalties after a 1-1 Coppa Italia quarter-final draw against Como last month in a game that saw Conte lose his head towards fourth official Giovanni Ayroldi after a series of decisions that he thought to be errors from referee Manganiello. 

The Partenopei head coach was left enraged after a foul on Rasmus Hojlund by Como centre-back Jacobo Ramon, which he felt warranted a VAR check at the very least. The Spaniard made a similar challenge again towards the end of the first half, but escaped a booking.

Conte was caught on camera calling referee Manganiello a ‘d***head’ in a heated confrontation with fourth official Ayroldi, and also claimed that the official ‘does it on purpose with me’. 

The coach’s comments led to an investigation from FIGC prosecutor Giuseppe Chinè, and according to article 36 of the sporting code of justice, Conte was at risk of a minimum four-match suspension as a result of the ‘abuse’ that he gave the officials. 

According to Corriere dello Sport, Conte was questioned in a private interrogation with the prosecutor’s office a few days after the Napoli vs. Como match took place. 

Given Conte’s co-operation with the investigation, his legal representative has been able to reach an agreement with the authorities that will see him handed a €6,000 fine instead of any matchday suspensions.

Liverpool are reportedly eyeing up a surprise potential transfer raid on rivals Everton for in-form midfielder James Garner.

The England international has performed at a high level for the Toffees this term, and now looks likely to be involved with the Three Lions at the 2026 World Cup this summer.

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It could also be that Garner will earn himself a big move, with Liverpool said to be determined to make a move for him, according to Fichajes.

It’s not often we see Liverpool and Everton doing business, so this deal would undoubtedly be hugely controversial if it were to go through.

The 25-year-old is also a former Manchester United player, and again it’s not often the case that players go on to represent them and Liverpool.

James Garner looks set for big summer transfer

Garner has three goals and six assists in all competitions this season, putting in some assured and well-rounded displays in midfield.

Stats site WhoScored has Garner as the highest rated player in the Everton squad, with an average rating of 7.23/10 for the 2025/26 season.

They also state that Garner has a lot of stand-out strengths, such as crossing, passing, tackling, and interceptions, while they also judge that he has no significant weaknesses to his game.

It makes sense that we’re now seeing Garner linked with a big move like LFC, with Arne Slot arguably in need of more quality in the middle of the park.

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Still, Everton have done well to tie Garner down to a new contract, which was recently confirmed on their official site.

Prior to that, the Daily Mail had also linked Garner with his former club Man Utd, who would also surely benefit from adding more midfielders this summer.

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Manchester United are reportedly preparing to make an offer of around €60m for the transfer of Benfica sensation Andreas Schjelderup.

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The talented 21-year-old is fast establishing himself as one of the most exciting prospects in Europe, leading to interest from the likes of Man Utd and Barcelona.

That’s according to a report from Fichajes, which adds that the Red Devils hope to move into a strong position to sign Schjelderup by moving forward with a €60m offer to Benfica.

United could do with adding a bit more spark to their attack this summer, as we’re yet to truly see the best out of Matheus Cunha since his move to Old Trafford, while even Bryan Mbeumo’s form has faded a bit as the season has gone on.

Andreas Schjelderup to Manchester United looks like one to watch

It has seemed the case for a while that we could see Schjelderup move to the Premier League, as he’s attracted interest from big clubs in England for a few years now.

O Jogo previously linked the Norway international as a target for Liverpool, while Goal also reported on him having trials with big clubs like Bayern Munich and Juventus when he was 17 years old.

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Schjelderup is now more experienced and has proven himself at the highest level, so it could be the right time for MUFC to try bringing him in to become a key player.

Capable of playing a variety of attacking roles, and possessing natural skill, flair, and intelligence to his game, it’s easy to imagine Schjelderup being a big hit with the United fans if he can go on to fulfil his enormous potential.

The post Offer prepared: Man United ready to bid €60m for outstanding 21-year-old appeared first on CaughtOffside.

In a worryingly bad omen for the Italy national team, the same referee that took charge of the infamous 2022 World Cup play-off semi-final defeat against North Macedonia will be tasked with officiating Tuesday’s play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

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Why is the refereeing appointment for Bosnia play-off not a good sign for Italy?

Clement Turpin has been chosen as the referee for Italy’s play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which kicks off at 19.45 BST on Tuesday evening. Turpin will be joined by assistants Nicolas Dagos and Benjamin Pages and fourth official Jose Maria Sanchez from Spain. Jerom Brisard and Willy Delajod will be the Video Assistant Referees. 

Alarmingly for the Azzurri, Turpin was also chosen as the referee for the infamous 1-0 loss against North Macedonia in the 2022 World Cup play-off semi-final, which cost Roberto Mancini and his players, who were the reigning European champions at the time, a spot at the final tournament later that year. 

That game ended in heartbreak for Italy, as former Palermo striker Alesandar Trajkovski netted in the 92nd minute to prevent the Azzurri from qualifying for the World Cup for the second cycle in a row. 

Italy have not qualified for the final World Cup tournament for 12 years now, dating back to the 2014 tournament in Brazil. They have not featured in a knock-out game at the World Cup in 20 years, since beating France in the final to claim the trophy back in 2006. 

This time around, Gennaro Gattuso and his squad will have to travel to a currently frozen-over Zenica to take on Bosnia and Herzegovina for a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada. 

The Nazional finished second behind Norway in their World Cup qualifying group, which condemned them to the play-offs for the third tournament cycle in a row. They have since beaten Northern Ireland by two goals to nil thanks to second-half strikes from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean in Thursday’s evening’s play-off semi-final in Bergamo. 

Bosnia, meanwhile, eliminated Wales on penalties in Cardiff in order to qualify.

An almost entirely French officiating team led by referee Clement Turpin will take charge of the upcoming World Cup play-off final between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy coming up on Tuesday evening. 

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The Azzurri will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica at 19.45 BST on Tuesday evening for a spot at the final 2026 World Cup tournament. 

Gennaro Gattuso’s side beat Northern Ireland 2-0 thanks to second-half goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean in order to qualify, while Bosnia and Herzegovina required penalties to get past Wales in Cardiff on Thursday night. 

Referees appointed for Italy’s World Cup play-off final 

43-year-old Turpin will be the man with the whistle for Italy’s World Cup play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Turpin will be joined by assistant referees Nicolas Dagos and Benjamin Pages, also from France, plus fourth official Jose Maria Sanchez from Spain. Frenchmen Jerom Brisard and Willy Delajod will assist from the VAR booth. 

In a slightly alarming precedent for Italy, Turpin was also the referee for their infamous 1-0 loss against North Macedonia during the World Cup play-off semi-final in 2022, which cost the Azzurri their place at the final tournament later that year. 

The North Macedonia match was one of five previous Italy matches that Turpin has been involved in. He also took charge of a 3-0 win against Uruguay in a 2017 friendly, a 2-0 win over Poland in the Nations League in 2020, a 3-1 loss against England in qualification for EURO 2024, and the 3-0 win over Israel in World Cup qualifying earlier this season. 

Turpin has refereed 12 matches in Ligue 1 so far this season, plus six in the Champions League, two in Champions League qualification, 2 in the UAE Pro League, one in the Saudi Pro League and one in the Coupe De France. 

Napoli’s 3-2 Champions League defeat against Chelsea is Turpin’s only match involving an Italian side so far this season.

Alessandro Bastoni continues to be linked with a potential summer transfer to Barcelona, and the latest reports in Italy claim that Inter will target a replacement already playing in Serie A if the Italy international does decide to leave in the coming months. 

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According to recent reports in both Italy and Spain, Barcelona are becoming increasingly keen on the idea of signing Bastoni from Inter this summer. 

The Nerazzurri star won’t come cheaply, though, and La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that it will take an offer in the region of €80m, or at least €70m with significant bonuses in order to convince Beppe Marotta’s side into selling. 

Negotiations are not formally underway just yet, but the latest reports in Spain claim that Bastoni is Barca’s ‘top target’ ahead of the 2026-27 campaign and that the Italy stay is open to a move to Camp Nou. 

Who could Inter sign if Bastoni leaves for Barcelona?

Sunday’s reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Lazio’s Mario Gila would be Inter’s top target to replace Bastoni should he leave this coming transfer window. 

Gila, 25, already has 113 appearances from his time in Italy in Lazio and has 83 outings in Serie A to his name. The Spaniard is also of interest to Inter’s city rivals Milan, given the connection between the player and former Lazio director Igli Tare, who currently serves as the sporting director for the Rossoneri. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport warns that it will not be easy to negotiate with the Biancocelesti, even though Gila will be heading into the final year of his contract this summer, expiring in 2027. 

Other options for the Nerazzurri reportedly include Sassuolo’s Tariq Muharemovic, Udinese’s Oumar Solet and Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez, all of whom are expected to be worth around €20m-€30m.

Italy are preparing to take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final on Tuesday evening, but aside from the threats posed by Edin Dzeko, his teammates, and the viral video clip of Federico Dimarco mid-celebration, the weather could also now come into play. 

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Three issues facing Italy ahead of World Cup play-off final

Italy beat Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo in Thursday’s World Cup play-off semi-final thanks to second-half goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean, which set up a final date with Bosnia and Herzegovina, who beat Wales on penalties in Cardiff. 

It took just a matter of minutes after Thursday’s semi-finals came to an end for controversy to cloud over the Italy national team, when Rai decided to broadcast a video of Dimarco and a handful of his colleagues celebrating Bosnia’s penalty shoot-out victory over Wales. 

• Read more: Dimarco unwise to celebrate, but televising incident only harms Italy

The video has caused mixed reactions, many negative, particularly in Bosnia, for whom the clip has only served as additional motivation heading into Tuesday’s play-off final. 

Dimarco has since come out and insisted that he was filmed in a private setting, did not mean to cause any disrespect and has hushed claims that he and his teammates were arrogant by pointing to the fact that Italy have not qualified for the World Cup for the last 12 years. 

Of course, it would be a sign of disrespect in itself to suggest that the now infamous video clip is the only threat posed against Italy heading into Tuesday’s World Cup decider.

Bosnia have qualified by attaining a similar set of results to Italy over the World Cup qualifying campaign and have players of their own that can threaten the Azzurri, from the legendary Dzeko to the Serie A-accustomed Tariq Muharmovic and Sead Kolasinac, to the exciting talent of Kerim Alajbegovic. 

And now, according to the latest updates, the weather in a freezing Zenica, where rain and snow continues to fall, is the latest issue heading into the World Cup play-off final. 

According to meridiansport.ba, heaters are being used on the pitch for the first ever time in Bosnia in an attempt to clear the snow and ice from the pitch in time for the play-off decider, which kicks off at 19.45 BST on Tuesday evening.

Manchester United reportedly have Sandro Tonali at the top of their wish-list in midfield this summer, according to Matteo Moretto.

Tonali’s Newcastle future has been in some doubt recently, with a summary below of some recent transfer rumours involving the Italy international and interest from clubs such as Man United, Man City, and Arsenal…

• 6th March – Arsenal chief Andrea Berta working on a deal for Tonali, according to Tuttosport.
• 12th March – Tonali part of three-man list of midfield targets for Man Utd, according to the Sun.
• 19th March – United have made calls to ask about Tonali‘s situation, according to Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel.
• 24th March – Tonali wanted by both United and Man City but prefers a return to Serie A, according to talkSPORT.

Now Moretto has posted on X about Tonali being United’s preferred target for that area of their squad…

In cima alla lista dei desideri del Manchester United per rinforzare il centrocampo c’è Sandro Tonali.

Nelle prossime settimane si capirà la reale fattibilità dell’operazione.

Anche il Manchester City è molto attento alla situazione del calciatore italiano, valutato intorno… pic.twitter.com/49eCAnf2G1

— Matteo Moretto (@MatteMoretto) March 29, 2026

“At the top of Manchester United’s wishlist to bolster their midfield is Sandro Tonali. In the coming weeks, the true feasibility of the operation will become clear. Manchester City is also very attentive to the situation of the Italian footballer, valued at around 100 million,” Moretto posted.

Sandro Tonali transfer talk is being overhyped

Tonali is a fine player, but his high price tag and career phase mean he simply doesn’t look like the best option for most of the top clubs being linked with him.

See below as we’ve previously given Tonali 11/25 using our Transfer Fit rating system – read more here about how we calculate these.

Sandro Tonali	TOTAL SCORE: 11/25
Transfer fee	–
Performance	**
Achievements	**
Career phase	***
Squad need	****

This is a low-medium score, with Tonali just not looking like someone who makes sense as being United’s preferred midfield target.

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Someone like Elliot Anderson would surely fit better, but at the same time clubs can’t always land the ideal option.

Tonali could be a decent alternative, but perhaps these stories are being slightly exaggerated at the moment as the player’s agent might be keen to get him out of Newcastle this summer.

The post £100m star “at the top” of Manchester United’s transfer wish-list appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bernardo Silva’s future has been the subject of much speculation in recent times, but I’ve been told that a decision has already been made and communicated to Manchester City.

After consulting sources close to the agents industry, the clear message I’m getting is that Silva has already formally informed Man City that he’ll be leaving the club this summer when his contract expires.

This story was first published on the Daily Briefing – click here to subscribe to make sure you get these exclusive updates first!

The Portugal international’s future has been uncertain for some time, though he’s now publicly hinted that he’s unlikely to sign a new deal, and my understanding is that this follows behind-the-scenes talks with City officials.

Silva has loved his time at City but is now looking for a new challenge, with a number of avenues being explored by his agents ahead of the summer.

Bernardo Silva transfer suitors revealed

There is not yet a clear frontrunner in the race for Silva’s signature, with the player likely to make that decision at a later date.

The 31-year-old has interest from MLS and the Saudi Pro League, but also from Europe, and it’s possible that he’ll decide he’s ready to continue playing at the top level for a little while longer.

Silva is eager for a competitive project, but he also has high salary demands, so this looks like an open race for his signature as things stand.

I haven’t had specific Saudi clubs named just yet, but LAFC are understood to be his main suitors from the MLS.

In Europe, there is some interest from Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, and Napoli, with these clubs all sounded out to gauge their interest.

Bernardo Silva exit a blow for Manchester City

Internally at City, there is some concern about the prospect of losing this experienced star, whom sources describe as “Pep Guardiola’s right-hand man on the pitch”.

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The former Monaco star is a popular figure in the dressing room, bringing leadership and experience to the squad alongside other senior names like Rodri.

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However, it could now be that both Silva and Rodri will leave in the same summer, while there also remain ongoing questions over Guardiola’s future as manager.

This could potentially mean a lot of upheaval at the Etihad Stadium, with reports emerging about MCFC already working on two big-name midfielder signings to replace this star duo.

The post Sources: Transfer suitors named as Bernardo Silva tells Manchester City he’s leaving appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are reportedly one of the clubs interested in the potential transfer of Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder Julian Brandt.

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The 29-year-old has had a fine career in the Bundesliga with both Bayer Leverkusen and current club Dortmund, and it would be exciting to see what he could do in the Premier League.

According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Arsenal are among Brandt’s suitors for this summer, along with West Ham, Aston Villa, Roma, and Fenerbahce.

See below for details as a decision should come at the end of the season, which is not too far away now…

?? #BVB
Arsenal are interested in Julian Brandt.

? Borussia Dortmund ? decision only after season ends.

? Fenerbahçe, AS Roma, Aston Villa & West Ham ? also monitoring the player. https://t.co/bleZr6Bhvn pic.twitter.com/5SsjOkwqHQ

— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) March 28, 2026

Brandt has ten goals and four assists in his last 38 games for Dortmund, so although there are perhaps better options out there, he’s a very decent option for clubs to consider as a free agent.

Julian Brandt to Arsenal transfer could work but shouldn’t be a priority

See below for our Brandt to Arsenal Transfer Fit score, as we took a look at his recent form, age, and cost to weigh up if he’s really right for the Gunners…

Julian Brandt	TOTAL SCORE: 13/25
Transfer fee	****
Performance	***
Achievements	***
Career phase	*
Squad need	**

Overall, we gave Brandt a 13/25, which is pretty much smack bang in the middle MEDIUM.

There’s surely some sense in AFC looking at the German playmaker as one option to give them more depth, but even if he’d be cheap, he wouldn’t be a long-term option and there are surely better players out there.

It’s also debatable if Arsenal need more attacking options when they already have the likes of Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke all competing in that position.

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There’s also up-and-coming Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman, and it would be a shame for a young player’s progress to be blocked by someone whose best years are surely behind him.

Brandt might be an interesting market opportunity, but if Arsenal are to make changes in attack it surely needs to be for someone who’s a meaningful upgrade on what they already have.

The post Journalist claims Arsenal “interested” in experienced playmaker, decision soon appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are the favourites for the transfer of talented young German forward Nicolo Tresoldi, according to Christian Falk.

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The Gunners are already in talks over a move for Tresoldi and are seriously interested in bringing the highly-rated 21-year-old to the Emirates Stadium.

Falk has posted about this piece of Arsenal transfer news on X, whilst also providing CaughtOffside with further insight into the player.

Tresoldi is eligible to play for Italy and Argentina as well as Germany, but Falk has told us: “He seems to be the future of Germany in the striker position.”

? @Arsenal are currently the favorites to sign German striker Nicolò Tresoldi (21/Club Brugge). The club is seriously interested and talks are underway pic.twitter.com/xvJPkLmy4y

— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) March 29, 2026

“Arsenal are currently the favorites to sign German striker Nicolò Tresoldi (21/Club Brugge). The club is seriously interested and talks are underway,” Falk wrote on X.

This sounds promising for Arsenal as they look to add more options to their attack next season after a mixed debut campaign in England from last summer’s big signing Viktor Gyokeres.

Nicolo Tresoldi could be a fine signing for Arsenal’s future

It remains to be seen if Tresoldi is ready to go straight into Mikel Arteta’s starting line up, but he’s shown real promise in his relatively short career so far.

The youngster has 13 goals in 30 games in the Belgian top flight this term, and 17 in 47 in all competitions in total.

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If Tresoldi can continue to develop, he looks like he has what it takes to be one of the top strikers in Europe, and he could already be a useful squad player for Arsenal.

Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have struggled for fitness and form in recent times, so it might be worth offloading them and bringing in someone else to rotate with Gyokeres.

The post Exclusive: Arsenal favourites to sign “future of Germany in the striker position” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

 

Mission no.1s 

The climb of Antonelli and Sinner

Kimi: Another pole in Suzuka on track with Formula 1 legends. GP This morning at  6 

Jannik: Final against Lehecka (20.00). If he wins in Miami and then in Monte Carlo, he will become the king of tennis again 

I’ll take you to the World Cup 

Gattuso growls and does it for Italy 

The CT between a desire to remain unchanged and the Cristante and Pio options. His dad: ‘My Rino is loved by the country’ 

Bosnia-Italy: Play-off final on Tuesday

Dimarco and that video: ‘No arrogance, we haven’t qualified for 12 years’

Bastoni leaving? There’s Gila 

Wanted by Barca. Inter, battle with Milan for the Laziale

Corriere dello Sport 

We believe in Pio 

World Cup at stake in a freezing Zenica: Esposito temptation

A battle with Retegui: Gattuso thinks about it. Dimarco: ‘The celebration after Bosnia beat Wales on penalties? No lack of respect towards Dzeko’s national side. But Alajbegovic warns the Azzurri: ‘It will be a brutal match’

Rain and snow | Play-off final in Bosnia on Tuesday evening: The challenges for Italy are Dzeko, an 8,000-capacity stadium and the climate 

Conte admits and pays: He won’t be suspended 

Fine of €6,000 after the insults to Manganiello 

The Napoli coach, with the help of lawyer Grassani, has reached an agreement that avoids further sanction. He was at risk of missing four games 

Roma look for Carlos Augusto 

Ausilio works on Kone: Massara wants the Brazilian 

Bastoni, Barca get to work 

Laporta’s club contacts the agent: Inter don’t make any discounts 

Juve study Bernardo Silva 

The Portuguese to leave on a free: Serie A is an idea 

Milan wait for Modric’s signature 

Contract expiring, but Luka is at the centre of Allegri’s plans 

Tuttosport

Bosnia raise the tension

Italy, World Cup decider in Zenica on Tuesday

Our rivals ride off the good-for-nothing video of certain Azzurri players celebrating their beating Wales on penalties. Dimarco: ‘It was a private moment, it’s disrespectful. Us arrogant? But we haven’t qualified for 12 years’. Here’s how Muharemovic awaits them: ‘We fear only God, let us feast on the Italians’. Snow in Bosnia, finishing in Coverciano

With Spalletti, the market is easier 

The Super agent d’Amico and his Juve future 

‘Now with Luciano here, the players know where they’re going and why. His renewal is not just a signing, it’s a signal. All offers will be listened to, apart from for Yildiz’. From Alisson to Rudiger, Kolo to Silva, the effects of the coach’s renewal

Toro, the dossier of the sale 

A trail opens up in the USA: A report about the Bank of America is circulating

The rumour from Sole 24 Ore is shaking up more than just the Torino world. The second-largest banking giant in the USA is implicated, and is said to have begun pitching the ‘Torino deal’ to potential investors

 

Manchester United’s interim manager Michael Carrick is reportedly now firmly on course to be named the club’s next permanent manager.

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The Red Devils are happy with the job Carrick has done, and it’s been suggested that links with the likes of Luis Enrique and Unai Emery have been played down.

That’s according to TEAMtalk, who add that Man Utd have also had to reassess their options after Thomas Tuchel committed to a new contract with England.

All in all, this points towards Carrick being given the opportunity to take over as United manager on a permanent basis after a strong start in his interim spell.

Michael Carrick impressing at Manchester United

Carrick is not the most experienced name out there, with his only previous job coming with Championship club Middlesbrough, but his record so far speaks for itself.

The 44-year-old has a record of seven wins, two draws, and just one defeat from ten matches in charge this season, putting United firmly back into contention for Champions League qualification…

Carrick at Man Utd	Wins	Draws	Losses	Win %
2025/26	7	2	1	70%

Carrick is also highly regarded by MUFC for the work he’s done off the pitch since replacing Ruben Amorim at the start of this year.

The report from TEAMtalk states that his leadership and handling of the squad have made a real impression on the club’s hierarchy.

Other names to watch for the Man United job

A final decision probably won’t be made just yet, even if things are currently looking good for Carrick.

The report from TEAMtalk also mentions other possible candidates like Julian Nagelsmann and Mauricio Pochettino, but it’s suggested that they’re not currently being pursued that strongly.

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It will be interesting to see if anyone else comes into contention, with two impressive managers set to be available this summer in the form of Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola.

Still, why change things when Carrick has already shown he can do the job?

The post This manager is now firmly on course to land the Manchester United job appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro insists he won’t U-turn on his decision to leave Old Trafford at the end of his contract this summer.

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The Brazil international is set to become a free agent as his current deal is due to expire, though he’s been in superb form for Man Utd lately.

Although this has led to some calls for Casemiro to change his mind and extend his stay with the Red Devils, he seems pretty clear that he’s already made his final decision.

Speaking to the Athletic, he said: “I am still enjoying it a lot (in Manchester). I believe the announcement is now done. It is huge, the affection that the fans have shown towards me.

“But I do really believe the decision is made and done. I am enjoying myself right now. I believe it will be some difficult (emotional) moments, these (final) games at Manchester United.”

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Where next for Casemiro as Manchester United spell comes to an end?

Casemiro will likely have a lot of options this summer, with Inter Miami perhaps being the most strongly linked with the 34-year-old at the moment.

See below as Fabrizio Romano has posted on X about Casemiro receiving an offer from the MLS giants, though there’s also still the possibility that he moves to the Saudi Pro League or perhaps even stays in Europe…

??? Understand Inter Miami have started talks with Casemiro’s camp as first proposal has been sent!

Casemiro, open to Miami move with ambitious project + personal life.

Deal depend on financial proposal, as he received more bids from Europe/Saudi.

?? https://t.co/GpSmSjPykI pic.twitter.com/FglVvog09d

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 28, 2026

“Understand Inter Miami have started talks with Casemiro’s camp as first proposal has been sent! ” Romano said. “Casemiro, open to Miami move with ambitious project + personal life. Deal depend on financial proposal, as he received more bids from Europe/Saudi.”

Casemiro clearly still has what it takes to perform at a high level, as his recent United form shows, but at this age it’s possible that a decline could start soon, and that a move to playing in a less competitive league could be the best way to extend his playing career.

The post “The decision is made” – Player won’t U-turn on Man United transfer decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea star Cole Palmer is reportedly increasingly unsettled at Stamford Bridge and is on the radar of Manchester United and other top clubs.

The England international has not quite been at his best for Chelsea this season, though he still has a decent return of ten goals and three assists in the Premier League and Champions League.

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It seems Palmer is unhappy with changes made to the tactical set-up at Chelsea this term, leading to him being open to leaving the Blues, according to the Sun.

Man Utd are mentioned as one of the clubs interested in the £150m-rated playmaker, who could also be a target for Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, according to the Sun’s report.

Cole Palmer to Manchester United transfer – could it really happen?

This will certainly be an intriguing saga to watch, as it suggests Palmer is keen to make a change, though of course this doesn’t necessarily mean Chelsea will agree to let him go.

The Sun suggest Palmer would cost as much as £150m, and given that he’s tied down to a contract until 2033, CFC are in full control of his future.

Cole Palmer	TOTAL SCORE: 14/25
Transfer fee	–
Performance	**
Achievements	****
Career phase	*****
Squad need	***

How we calculate Transfer Fit rating

The west London giants don’t need to accept anything they don’t want, and it then becomes a question of clubs paying a crazy fee for Palmer.

Even if the 23-year-old can be a world class performer on his day, he is not currently performing at his best, so it’s hard to imagine United or anyone else paying quite that much for him.

The Sun also suggest that MUFC have other priorities this summer, such as a central defensive midfielder, with Casemiro set to be out of contract at the end of the season.

Cole Palmer is the face of this Chelsea project

Chelsea will surely feel they have to keep Palmer as he has been probably the biggest success story under this current ownership.

The club have focused a lot on signing elite young talents, but Palmer has been by far the best performer among a lot of flops.

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Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez have also performed well, while Estevao Willian looks like a terrific prospect.

Still, Chelsea will hope Palmer can turn his form around and become the face of this project again, as he’s surely still capable of being.

The post Why Cole Palmer is now unhappy at Chelsea as Man United eye potential £150m transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City may now reportedly be increasingly open to selling Rodri to Real Madrid as talks over a new contract have been put on hold.

Rodri has been linked with Real Madrid by Fabrizio Romano in a recent post on his Instagram, and it seems speculation is continuing to hot up ahead of the summer.

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The Spain international himself has also refused to rule out a move to the Bernabeu, playing down talk that his past ties to Atletico Madrid could stop him playing there.

According to TEAMtalk, it now seems that both Man City and Rodri are increasingly open to going their separate ways this summer.

What Rodri said about Real Madrid transfer

“I have a year left on my contract. There will come a point when we’ll have to sit down and talk,” Rodri said, as quoted by Sky Sports.

“There are other players who’ve taken that path (between both Madrid clubs). Not directly, but over time. You can’t turn down the best clubs in the world.

“I would like to return (to La Liga) yes, of course. For me, LaLiga is where I started. I still follow it, not as much as before, but I still follow it. But right now, I am very happy here (in the Premier League).”

Manchester City’s plans to replace Rodri

The report from TEAMtalk also mentions that City are already looking at big names like Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali to replace Rodri.

Of course, the 29-year-old is not someone who will be straightforward to ever truly replace after a great career at the Etihad Stadium.

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Rodri’s immense performances have seen him win four Premier League titles, the Champions League, and even the prestigious Ballon d’Or award during his time at City.

He will leave big boots to fill if he does end up leaving Manchester this summer, and there’s no doubt he’d also be a very exciting signing for Real Madrid.

The post New contract talks on hold as Manchester City now open to surprise transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Inter Miami have reportedly made their first proposal to Manchester United midfielder Casemiro as talks get underway over a summer transfer.

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The experienced Brazil international is set to become a free agent at the end of this season and it seems his next destination could be a move to the MLS.

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who has posted the following update on his X account: “Understand Inter Miami have started talks with Casemiro’s camp as first proposal has been sent! Casemiro, open to Miami move with ambitious project + personal life. Deal depend on financial proposal, as he received more bids from Europe/Saudi.”

??? Understand Inter Miami have started talks with Casemiro’s camp as first proposal has been sent!

Casemiro, open to Miami move with ambitious project + personal life.

Deal depend on financial proposal, as he received more bids from Europe/Saudi.

?? https://t.co/GpSmSjPykI pic.twitter.com/FglVvog09d

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 28, 2026

It seems Casemiro has other options to consider as well, but Inter Miami seem to be advancing with their pursuit of the 34-year-old.

Casemiro’s time at Manchester United coming to an end

Casemiro will be out of contract at Old Trafford this summer and has previously already confirmed that he’ll be leaving.

Still, the former Real Madrid man has been in fine form for Man Utd this season and a lot of fans will surely miss him after his impressive response to a previous dip in form.

Most people would probably agree that Casemiro joined United a bit too late in his career to have the kind of impact he could have had if he’d joined when he was younger and closer to his peak years.

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At the same time, however, we’ve still seen glimpses of Casemiro’s best form as a reminder of why he is sure to go down as one of the top defensive midfielders of his generation.

It’s probably the right time for Casemiro to be moving on and looking for a club outside of Europe, but he won’t be easy for MUFC to replace.

The post Club have submitted proposal to Manchester United star, says Fabrizio Romano appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool reportedly look set to miss out on the transfer of Nico Schlotterbeck for the time being, but that may not be the end of the story.

According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Borussia Dortmund have everything agreed for a new contract for Schlotterbeck until 2031.

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As reported in Plettenberg’s post on X below, this new deal would make the Germany international Dortmund’s highest earner, though it would apparently also include a new release clause active from summer 2027, which could still give Liverpool some hope of a deal in the future, even if they’re not currently in the race…

?? Borussia Dortmund have agreed everything with Nico Schlotterbeck’s management: contract until 2031, top earner status, and a release clause from 2027.

All that’s missing now is Schlotterbeck’s final approval. #BVB

Liverpool and Real Madrid are not in the race. @SkySportDE… pic.twitter.com/CszrSswDqH

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) March 28, 2026

“Borussia Dortmund have agreed everything with Nico Schlotterbeck’s management: contract until 2031, top earner status, and a release clause from 2027. All that’s missing now is Schlotterbeck’s final approval. #BVB Liverpool and Real Madrid are not in the race,” the journalist posted.

Nico Schlotterbeck could’ve been a superb signing for Liverpool

Schlotterbeck has impressed a great deal during his time at Dortmund, and it’s fair to say he could really have improved this Liverpool defence.

The links with the Reds have come from multiple sources for a while now, and Bild also claimed a few months back that it looked like the 26-year-old was not keen on signing a new contract with Dortmund.

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This would have been a great opportunity for LFC to bring in a long-term successor to the ageing Virgil van Dijk, while there might also be a gap to plug this summer if Ibrahima Konate doesn’t sign a new contract and leaves as a free agent.

BVB have done well to secure Schlotterbeck’s future amid interest from other big clubs, with Plettenberg also mentioning Real Madrid as someone now out of the race.

The post “Everything” has been “agreed” for Liverpool transfer target as release clause details revealed appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are reportedly among the clubs who’ve made checks on OH Leuven central defender Roggerio Nyakossi ahead of a potential summer transfer window move.

The talented 22-year-old is also on the radar of other Premier League clubs such as West Ham United and Crystal Palace after impressing for the Belgian club.

Chelsea could do with adding more quality and depth to their defensive options this summer, and it looks like Nyakossi could be a bargain option available on the market.

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That’s according to a report from the Sun, who state that Nyakossi is expected to cost just £8m this summer.

What Roggerio Nyakossi has said about a transfer

Nyakossi himself sounds happy to be linked with big clubs, judging by what he said last month.

When asked about the speculation, he described it as “pleasing”.

“It is of course always pleasing when big teams are interested,” he said, as quoted by the Sun.

One imagines the Swiss defender is now ready to make that next step in his career, so a move to a big name like Chelsea would surely be really appealing.

The Blues also look an ideal destination due to their recent commitment to a strategy of building around top young players.

Who else are Chelsea looking at in defence?

Some Chelsea fans might be concerned that Nyakossi is lacking that star quality that could really take this team to the next level.

It’s previously been reported that CFC are leading the race to sign Murillo from Nottingham Forest, as per TEAMtalk, so that could be one better option.

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We’ve also previously been informed of Castello Lukeba being on Chelsea’s radar, but there could be a lot of competition for names like these.

Nyakossi might not be as experienced at the highest level as those players, but at £8m he could be worth a try alongside at least one other new signing in defence.

The post Report: Chelsea making checks on 22-year-old talent who’d cost bargain £8m appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City are reportedly ready to offer players to Newcastle United in a bid to win the race for the transfer of Sandro Tonali this summer.

Pep Guardiola’s side are potentially looking to sign two new midfielders this summer, with Tonali on their list alongside Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.

That’s according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states that Man City could try bringing Tonali‘s £100m price tag down by including one of four players in a swap deal.

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Those players include James Trafford, Rico Lewis, Issa Kabore, and Juma Bah, according to the report, which also mentions other big clubs potentially in the mix for Tonali.

Where next for Sandro Tonali as clubs line up?

Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea are also mentioned by TEAMtalk as potential suitors for Tonali, with the player’s agent sounding out these teams as possible destinations.

There has been a lot of speculation about the Italy international’s future ahead of the summer, with just some of the recent reports detailed below…

• 6th March – Arsenal chief Andrea Berta working on a deal for Tonali, according to Tuttosport.
• 12th March – Tonali part of three-man list of midfield targets for Man Utd, according to the Sun.
• 19th March – United have made calls to ask about Tonali‘s situation, according to Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel.
• 24th March – Tonali wanted by both United and Man City but prefers a return to Serie A, according to talkSPORT.

Still, it sounds like City are serious about making major changes in midfield this summer and they have the resources to give Newcastle a tempting offer.

If MCFC were able to offer a decent amount of cash and a top player like Trafford, then that would surely be hard for the Magpies to turn down.

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Sandro Tonali to Man City Transfer Fit rating

We’ve previously scored Tonali to Arsenal as a weak fit using our Transfer Fit rating system, which you can find out more about here.

But how about City, who arguably need a midfielder more, and who have the potential to bring his considerable transfer fee down by including players in the deal?

Sandro Tonali	TOTAL SCORE: 14/25
Transfer fee	**
Performance	**
Achievements	**
Career phase	***
Squad need	*****

These factors certainly bump Tonali’s score up a bit, though he’s not quite in the same league as some other midfielders on the market this summer.

Anderson has shown more potential with his performances for Forest and England, while others like Adam Wharton are also younger and look like having a higher ceiling.

The post Four players on offer as Man City prepare swap deal for £100m Arsenal & Man Utd transfer target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sean Dyche has broken his silence on the intensifying rumors linking him to the Tottenham Hotspur job, describing the North London outfit as a “massive” club while dismissing reports of immediate talks.

The former Everton and Burnley boss, widely regarded as English football’s premier “firefighter,” has seen him linked with the Spurs job as their nightmare 2025/26 season threatens to end in a historic relegation.

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Speaking during a guest appearance on talkSPORT, Dyche laughed off a recent social media frenzy sparked by a fan sighting in a London pub.

Despite the lighthearted tone, the gravity of Tottenham’s situation remains undeniable as the club enters a high-stakes international break.

Sean Dyche admits no talks with Tottenham as yet

Addressing the speculation that he was meeting with Spurs chairman on Friday night, Dyche revealed the reality was far more grounded.

“It’s brilliant, honestly,” Dyche laughed. “I was in the pub just up the way near my place… and this guy goes, ‘Ah, you’re meant to be in talks with Spurs tonight?’ And I say, ‘I’m sat next to you having a pint of Guinness, so it’s unlikely, unless you work for Spurs!'”

While confirming no formal contact has been made, Dyche was full of praise for the club. “You try to be respectful because let’s use Tottenham as an example. A brilliant club, massive club… one of my first ever memories is Ricky Villa’s goal [in 1981]. So you go, ‘Yeah, I’m flattered.'”

? Sean Dyche on talkSPORT! ?

Sean Dyche reacts to rumours of him being linked to Spurs, as the north London club face a relegation scrap ?

? Watch the full discussion on our YouTube channel: https://t.co/PfilEzxvja pic.twitter.com/baEUVNXMQH

— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) March 28, 2026

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Mar 29 2026, 8:15

The links to a recently sacked Dyche come as interim head coach Igor Tudor struggles to stem a collapse that has seen Tottenham fail to win a single Premier League match in 2026.

Following a devastating 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend, Spurs have slumped to 17th place, sitting just one point above the relegation zone with only seven matches remaining.

Tudor, who replaced Thomas Frank in February, has overseen five defeats in his seven games across all competitions.

Combined with a 13-match winless run in the league, the club’s worst since 1915, the Spurs hierarchy is reportedly not afraid to pull the trigger on their second manager of the year..

 

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Anfield was treated to a masterclass on Saturday as Thiago Alcantara made a sensational return to for the 2026 LFC Foundation charity match.

Despite retiring from professional football in 2024, the Spanish maestro looked as though he had never stepped away, shining in the 2-2 draw against Borussia Dortmund Legends with his trademark flair and vision.

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Playing under the watchful eyes of a returning Jurgen Klopp and Sir Kenny Dalglish, Thiago took just six minutes to remind the 60,000-strong crowd why he remains one of the most gifted midfielders of his generation.

The deadlock was broken in spectacular fashion early in the first half. Thiago orchestrated the move himself, turning over possession in the Dortmund half before finding Ryan Babel with a brilliant no-look pass.

As Babel held the ball up, Thiago continued his run into the penalty area. Receiving the return pass, the 34-year-old found himself forced wide by the onrushing Roman Weidenfeller.

However, with the narrowest of margins to work with, Thiago produced a sublime finish from an almost impossible angle, sliding the ball into the far corner to spark a roar from the Kop.

Thiago and Steven Gerrard link-up

Throughout the first half, he combined effortlessly with Steven Gerrard.

His chemistry with Gerrard was incredible, with the duo exchanging a series of intricate “triangles” that dictated the tempo of the game.

Fans were so enamored by the display that many fans on social media called for the duo to sign a short-term deal for Arne Slot’s first team.

Thiago Alcantara vs BVB legends
pic.twitter.com/WnPyClAMH6

— ?? (@kfjcomps_) March 28, 2026

 

 

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Mexico and Portugal played to a 0-0 draw at Estadio Azteca in a match where Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence was felt.

Portugal were unable to make the difference, settling for a 0-0 draw against Mexico in the reopening of Estadio Azteca. Without Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Martinez’s side struggled to create danger in the opponent’s box.

From the first half, it was clear that Portugal would face a tough challenge. Mexico set up with a physically intense and tactically disciplined strategy, making it difficult for stars like Bruno Fernandes and Joao Felix to stand out. In that context, Portugal’s clearest chance came from Goncalo Ramos, who controlled the ball inside the box but fired wide.

Mexico tried long-range shots but lacked the precision to trouble goalkeeper Rui Silva. In the second half, their best opportunity came when Armando Gonzalez met a cross from the left with a header, but sent it over.

Roberto Martinez’s side brought on other stars in the second half, including Pedro Neto, Vitinha, Joao Cancelo, and Diogo Dalot, but they were unable to make an impact. Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence was obvious, as his presence in the box has been a key weapon for Portugal in recent years.

For Mexico, the next challenge comes on Tuesday, when they face Belgium in another friendly. Portugal will travel to Atlanta, Georgia, to take on the USMNT at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

West Ham have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s midfielder Aleix Garcia as a “concrete” priority for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to report from Fussballdaten.

The 28-year-old, who has been a key player for Leverkusen, is currently regarded as the most ‘serious’ target for the Hammers as they look to inject world-class creativity into their engine room.

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The Hammers’ interest is not new, having attempted to sign him back in 2024 as well.

Garcia is having an impressive season, contributing nine assists and five goals across all competitions.

West Ham face competition from Atletico Madrid

While West Ham are leading the interest from the Premier League, they face a formidable rival in Atletico Madrid.

Diego Simeone is reportedly desperate to bring Garcia back to Spain as a replacement for Conor Gallagher, who recently joined Tottenham.

Atletico previously failed with an inquiry in January, but the report suggests that they are returning with a €25 million offer.

Leverkusen, however, are holding firm. Despite Garcia’s market value sitting around €20 million, the German champions have reportedly set the price at €30 million (£25m), refusing to part with their playmaker for anything less.

West Ham face serious relegation risk

Despite the club’s ambitious transfer plans, West Ham’s pursuit of Garcia could heavily depend on their Premier League status.

The Hammers are currently involved in a relegation battle, sitting 18th in the table with just 29 points from 31 games.

With only seven matches remaining and trailing 17th-placed Tottenham by a single point, the London Stadium outfit is facing its most uncertain end-of-season run in years.

A player of Garcia’s quality is unlikely to entertain a move to the Championship, which is why the club’s Premier League status could play a decisive factor in the player’s decision.

Garcia’s rise: From Manchester City academy to Bundesliga star

García’s journey has come full circle. Once a prospect in Manchester City’s academy, he truly found his footing at Girona before exploding under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen.

Player	Club	Games	Goals	Assists	G+A
Aleix García	Bayer Leverkusen	85	10	13	23

Now thriving under the tactical shift at the BayArena, he has become one of Europe’s most impressive midfielders.

Position	Games	Goals	Assists	G+A
Defensive Midfield	143	8	16	24
Central Midfield	133	15	20	35
Attacking Midfield	24	2	1	3

Aleix Garcia stats across various positions via Transfermarkt

Whether he chooses a return to his homeland or a high-profile return to England, Garcia is set to be one of the summer’s most sought-after signatures.

The post Report: West Ham ‘most serious’ in signing ex-Man City midfielder with 15 goals & 20 assists appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace are reportedly keeping a close watch on the deteriorating situation at Chelsea, with former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown revealing that the Eagles are “long-term admirers” of Blues head coach Liam Rosenior.

Despite only taking the reins at Stamford Bridge in January, Rosenior is facing intense scrutiny following a dismal run of results that has left Chelsea’s Champions League hopes hanging by a thread.

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According to Brown, the hierarchy at Selhurst Park has tracked Rosenior’s progress since his time at Hull City and his successful stint in France with Strasbourg.

Should the 41-year-old become a casualty of Chelsea’s ruthless managerial cycle, Palace are expected to be at the front of the queue for his services.

Crystal Palace monitoring Liam Rosenior as Oliver Glasner successor

Speaking to Football Insider, Brown highlighted that Rosenior’s reputation remains high among football insiders, despite the recent “Stamford Bridge slump.”

With current Palace boss Oliver Glasner officially confirming he will depart at the end of the season, the search for a successor is well underway.

“Obviously it seems like Liam Rosenior is under a bit of pressure.

“If he was to be sacked by Chelsea, he’s somebody Crystal Palace will be looking at, because they’ve been long-term admirers since before he came to Chelsea.

“The people I speak to at Hull City speak very, very highly of him, the way they played under him, the organisation, the way he interacted with his players.

“Everything about him as a manager, I’ve heard nothing but praise about until he’s gone to Chelsea and results maybe haven’t been as they’d have hoped.

“So from a Crystal Palace perspective, those are good signs, because he was highly rated in France as well and there are people at Palace who like him.

“If he was to leave Chelsea, they’d be alerted to that and he’s somebody I’m sure they would be looking at as an option to replace Glasner.

“It’s certainly something Palace will be keeping an eye on.”

Rosenior job safe for now despite nightmare form

The pressure on Rosenior is building up following four consecutive defeats across all competitions, including a humbling 8-2 aggregate exit from the Champions League at the hands of PSG.

Domestically, a 3-0 drubbing by Everton has seen the Blues slide to sixth in the Premier League table.

But reports suggest the Chelsea hierarchy currently intends to give Rosenior at least one full season in charge before conducting any formal performance review.

 

The post Crystal Palace considering surprise move for Premier League manager as Oliver Glasner replacement appeared first on CaughtOffside.

This Saturday night, Mexico and Portugal face off at Estadio Azteca.

Portugal will kick off their North American friendly tour on Saturday night. During the March FIFA break, they are scheduled to play two matches: the first comes tonight at Estadio Azteca against Mexico, followed by a clash next Tuesday against the USMNT at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Unfortunately for Mexican and American fans, Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of these matches. The Al Nassr forward was not included in coach Roberto Martinez’s squad as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him for exactly one month.

Even so, Portugal will field an extremely competitive side, with most of their stars available. Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes will be one of the main attractions, alongside other top-level players such as Ruben Neves, Joao Felix, and Nuno Mendes.

On the other side are Mexico, who remain in the process of building a clear playing identity. Head coach Javier Aguirre knows he faces the difficult task of shaping his squad into a serious contender ahead of a World Cup that will be especially meaningful, as they are one of the hosts. That makes this test against one of the world’s top national teams, Portugal, particularly valuable.

Confirmed Mexico lineup

While facing Portugal will require Mexico to be more cautious than they typically are against Concacaf opposition, Javier Aguirre will not sacrifice attacking firepower. Key players such as Raul Jimenez and Roberto Alvarado will feature in the starting lineup.

Mexico’s confirmed XI: Raul Rangel; Johan Vasquez, Cesar Montes, Jesus Gallardo, Israel Reyes; Erick Lira, Obed Vargas, Alvaro Fidalgo; Brian Gutierrez, Roberto Alvarado, Raul Jimenez.

Confirmed Portugal lineup

In addition to Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence, Roberto Martinez must also cope with missing key players such as Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias during this March international break. However, that will not prevent him from naming a lineup filled with top-tier talent.

Portugal’s confirmed XI to face Mexico: Rui Silva; Matheus Nunes, Renato Veiga, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes; Samu Costa, Ruben Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Joao Felix, Francisco Conceicao, Gonzalo Ramos.

Christian Pulisic and Milan continue to move cautiously as discussions over a new contract progress, with both sides taking their time amid a challenging period on the pitch.

Christian Pulisic and Milan continue to move cautiously as discussions over a new contract progress, with both sides taking their time amid a challenging period on the pitch. The American winger has remained a key figure for the club despite recent setbacks, while Milan maintains long-term confidence in his importance.

The situation surrounding Pulisic reflects both sporting and strategic considerations, with the Rossoneri balancing performance concerns and future planning. His current deal still has time remaining, but the direction of negotiations suggests that patience is the preferred approach for now. This approach hints at something deeper about the relationship between player and club.

As discussions continue in the background, there are subtle signals that both sides are aligned in their long-term thinking. It is now being reported that clear Milan and Pulisic’s mutual preference is to continue together, even if talks are progressing slowly.

Contract situation and negotiation status

Pulisic’s current contract runs until June 2027, with Milan holding an option to extend until 2028. According to Calciomercato, this is one reason why contract talks have not been rushed, as the club already retains a degree of control over his future.

Reports suggest that both parties could revisit discussions at the end of the season, potentially agreeing on a new deal lasting until 2031 with a modest salary increase from his current $4.3 million per year. This reflects a long-term vision, even if formal negotiations are not currently a priority.

At the same time, there has been interest from other leagues, including the Premier League and Saudi Arabia, but the Serie A giant has respected the player’s desire to focus on his current situation. This careful handling of the situation highlights the trust between player and club.

Club confidence and long-term vision

The report adds that Massimiliano Allegri’s side remains committed to Pulisic as part of their future plans. The club values not only his technical ability but also his professionalism and character, even during difficult periods.

A statement highlighted by Milan’s internal discussions reflects this trust: “The club has always appreciated not only his technical qualities but also his character.” This underscores the broader belief that Pulisic is a key piece of the team’s identity.

The club’s structure also includes safeguards, such as the option to extend his contract, allowing flexibility in planning while maintaining control over potential transfer scenarios. This ensures the Rossoneri are well-positioned regardless of how negotiations evolve.

Now Martinez has hinted at something deeper shaping Portugal’s chances, a key attribute within Ronaldo that could inspire and elevate the entire squad on the road to World Cup success.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal’s journey toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup is beginning to take shape, with the national team already having learned its group-stage opponents and mapped out a challenging path ahead. Under head coach Roberto Martinez, expectations remain high as Portugal prepares for a tournament that could define an era.

As the tournament approaches, the focus is not only on fixtures and formats but also on leadership and mentality within the team. Portugal enters the competition with one of its most talented generations in years, blending experience with emerging stars. The balance between ambition and pressure will be crucial as the team aims to go further than ever before.

The 2026 World Cup itself promises a historic format, with an expanded field and more matches than ever before. Portugal’s placement in the draw presents both opportunity and risk, as it will need consistency and resilience to progress through the stages. Amid all this anticipation, Martinez has pointed to a defining quality within the squad that could prove decisive.

Now Martinez has hinted at something deeper shaping Portugal’s chances, a key attribute within Ronaldo that could inspire and elevate the entire squad on the road to World Cup success.

What did Martinez say about Ronaldo?

Beyond tactics and fixtures, Martinez has emphasized the importance of mentality within the squad, an area where Ronaldo stands out. Speaking about the players, Martinez revealed: “When I announced my first call-up to the Belgian national team, I had a very strange feeling reading the names of so many players I didn’t know. So, when I arrived in Portugal, I went to visit all 32 of them. I asked them why they were on the national team, wow did we get into football, who are our heroes? There’s always a figure who explains why they love playing football.”

“I asked them who their role model was. Many players didn’t hesitate to answer and said Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s very special and unique to have a player who has dedicated 21 years to the national team”, he told the media, before adding: “Carlos Forbes was born in 2004, when Cristiano Ronaldo was already on the national team. When players who grew up watching him see what he does every day, they look up to him.”

This statement highlights the 41-year-old’s role as a model figure for the national team, influencing not just performance but also identity. His longevity—spanning more than two decades—has made him a reference point for younger players entering the squad.

Martinez further praised Ronaldo’s mindset, stating: “An elite player isn’t defined by their talent, but by their mentality and resilience.” This reflects the belief that the superstar’s approach to preparation and commitment could be the driving force behind Portugal’s World Cup ambitions.

Portugal’s path to possible World Cup glory

Portugal has been drawn into a competitive group alongside South Korea, South Africa, and a playoff winner, setting up a demanding start to their campaign. Their fixtures will take place across multiple venues in the United States, testing both adaptability and depth.

For the Selecao, the group stage begins on June 17 and concludes on June 27, with matches spread across Houston and Miami. If they progress, they could face teams like England or other top European sides, depending on their final position. For Ronaldo, this tournament represents what could be his final World Cup, thus, the motivation to secure the only major trophy missing from his career adds emotional weight to Portugal’s campaign.

Milan have moved quickly to secure one of the Balkans’ most promising young forwards, with Partizan teenager Andrej Kostic set to undergo his medical on Friday ahead of completing a permanent move to the club.

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The 2007-born Montenegrin will join at the end of the current season for a fee of around €3 million, according to TMW, and will initially be integrated into Milan Futuro, the club’s reserve team setup, as part of a carefully planned development pathway.

Milan have been tracking Kostic for several months and decided to act now to beat rival clubs to his signature.

Kostic next in Milan hunt for younger talent

The move reflects the club’s broader strategy of identifying and securing young talent from emerging markets before competition drives up prices, with the forward considered one of the most exciting prospects currently playing in the region.

The intention is to nurture Kostic gradually through Milan’s system, with the long-term aim of eventually integrating him into the first-team setup.

At just 19, he has plenty of time on his side, and the club are in no rush to accelerate his development beyond what is appropriate for his age.

It is a measured but forward-thinking piece of business from sporting director Igli Tare, low risk, high potential, and exactly the kind of deal that can pay significant dividends further down the line.

Leeds United could be set to part ways with Japanese international Ao Tanaka this summer, as the club adopts an open-minded stance regarding the midfielder’s future.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, the 27-year-old has emerged as a primary target for several German clubs, with Leeds reportedly willing to consider bids if the right valuation is met.

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German clubs showing interest in Ao Tanaka

A return to Germany appears the most likely destination for Tanaka, where his reputation remains high following his successful stint in the 2. Bundesliga.

The interest is currently being led by Schalke 04 and Hannover 96, two historic sides currently embroiled in a fierce promotion race.

Schalke sit at the top of the 2. Bundesliga with 52 points, while Hannover are in fifth place, just three points off the automatic promotion spots.

Both clubs view Tanaka as a ready-made option to bolster their squads should they secure a return to the top flight.

Additionally, Union Berlin are said to have “tentative” interest, viewing the Japanese enforcer as a potential squad-depth option for their midfield.

Tanaka has struggled at Leeds United this season

Despite being a fan favorite during the promotion charge, Tanaka has struggled to maintain his influence in the Premier League.

Tanaka arrived at Elland Road last summer for a bargain £2.9 million from Fortuna Düsseldorf and was an instrumental figure in the club’s Championship-winning campaign.

However, since the Whites returned to the Premier League, the midfielder has found himself on the fringes of Daniel Farke’s starting XI, courtesy of injuries and a dip in form.

This season he has been limited to just seven starts, often appearing as a late-game substitute.

Statistically, his output has cooled significantly; he has managed just two goals and zero assists in 26 total appearances this campaign.

While earlier reports suggester that Leeds United don’t plan on sanctioning an exit for Tanaka, it now appears that the club may look to capitalise on the interest in the Japanese international.

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Leicester City are reportedly ready to sacrifice star winger Abdul Fatawu this summer as the club grapples with a deepening financial crisis and a potential slide toward League One.

According to The Telegraph, the Foxes intend to maintain their long-standing model of selling at least one marquee player per window to balance the books.

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Despite being a bright spark in an otherwise dismal campaign, Fatawu is increasingly viewed as the club’s most prized asset.

With Leicester recently announcing staggering annual losses of £71 million, the hierarchy has privately conceded that high-value sales are a necessity to ensure long-term stability.

Leicester expected to sell Abdul Fatawu amid financial struggles

The financial pressure on the King Power hierarchy is immense. The club is currently navigating its second stint in the Championship in three seasons and sits dangerously in 22nd place, just above the relegation.

Falling into the third tier would trigger further loss of revenue, making Fatawu’s departure almost inevitable.

Fatawu, who joined permanently from Sporting CP for €17 million last summer, represents a significant return on investment.

With his contract running until 2029, Leicester are in a strong position to demand a fee that could exceed €30 million, providing vital relief for their strained balance sheet.

Abdul Fatawu wanted by top clubs including Napoli

The 22-year-old’s individual form has not gone unnoticed by Europe’s elite. Napoli have emerged as the primary suitors, with reports suggesting the Serie A giants are preparing a €25 million opening bid.

The Italian side views the Ghanaian international as a priority target to add pace and directness to their wide areas next season.

Fatawu’s numbers this season, 9 goals and 7 assists in 38 games, have made him one of the most productive wingers in the Championship.

While several Premier League sides are also monitoring his situation, a move to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona would represent a significant step up, offering the young star a chance to return to the Champions League stage.

 

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Former Borussia Dortmund captain Marco Reus has publicly advised Jadon Sancho to snub a permanent move to the Premier League in favor of a return to the Westfalenstadion.

Sancho, currently on a season-long loan at Aston Villa from Manchester United, faces a defining summer as his contract at Old Trafford approaches its final months.

Despite showing flashes of his immense talent under Unai Emery, Sancho has struggled for consistent output in the Midlands, registering just one goal and three assists in 31 appearances across all competitions.

With his contract with Manchester United set to expire in the summer, Reus has backed his former teammate to return to Dortmund to save his career.

Marco Reus advises Jadon Sancho to return to Borussia Dortmund

Speaking to the German newspaper Bild, Reus, who shared a prolific partnership with Sancho between 2017 and 2021, insisted that emotional comfort is now more important than financial gain for the winger.

He said: “My advice to Jadon is to first and foremost look for a place where he feels comfortable again and can rediscover his game. And if that’s at BVB, then it would be good for both him and Dortmund! He knows what the game needs.”

Reus also praised Sancho, adding:

“I have rarely played with a player who instinctively made such good decisions in tight situations. He was sometimes quiet and introspective, but he still radiated good humour.

“Apart from his assists and goals, he knows what the game needs and what his teammates need. He is a player who draws two or three opponents to him and can accurately assess when to involve his teammates at the right moments.”

Dortmund are keen on re-signing Reus

The interest is not one-sided. Reports from Germany suggest that Dortmund are keen on bringing Sancho back for a third stint, though it would come with strict conditions.

The best period of Sancho’s career has been with the German giants, where he scored 53 goals and assisted another 67 in 158 games across all competitions.

Club	Games	Goals	Assists	G+A	Avg G+A per Game
Borussia Dortmund	158	53	67	120	0.76

He struggled to replicate his form in the Premier League despite having played with three different clubs, Chelsea, Manchester United and Aston Villa.

While Villa have not fully shut down a potential permanent transfer, perhaps a return to Germany would be the best option for Sancho to revive his career.

The post Aston Villa star urged to snub Premier League club for Borussia Dortmund appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Supporters and analysts alike often debate not just how many goals they’ve scored, but which national teams have suffered most from their prolific scoring.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have spent decades thrilling fans with their goal-scoring exploits for their national teams, turning every fixture into a chance to extend their legendary records. Their rivalry transcends clubs and continents, and one fascinating aspect of that duel lies in the opponents they have repeatedly punished. Supporters and analysts alike often debate not just how many goals they’ve scored, but which national teams have suffered most from their prolific scoring.

Both players have enjoyed remarkable longevity at the international level, finding the net against dozens of countries in official matches. Ronaldo, leading the all-time international goalscoring charts, has been particularly effective against a wide range of European sides. Messi, while operating mainly in South American competitions and qualifiers, has carved out his own set of favored opponents.

The contrast in their scoring patterns highlights differences in their careers and competitive environments, yet the underlying theme is consistent: both forwards have a knack for repeatedly finding weaknesses in certain defenses. These patterns are more than trivia; they reflect how two of soccer’s greatest have shaped international soccer over the past two decades.

For Ronaldo, one European nation stands out above all others as his most frequent target, while Messi’s scoring has been particularly devastating against a specific South American side.

Ronaldo’s most frequent targets

Ronaldo’s scoring record for the Portugal national team is nothing short of historic, having found the net against 48 different national teams, a record unmatched in international soccer. Among those, one opponent emerges as his most frequent victim: Luxembourg, against whom he has scored 11 goals in as many appearances.

Other European sides have also suffered regularly, with nations like Hungary (nine goals) and Sweden (seven goals) appearing high on his list of victims. These figures underscore Ronaldo’s consistency over time, especially in UEFA qualifying campaigns and international fixtures where Portugal has often been dominant.

The 41-year-old forward’s ability to score against a diverse array of opponents, from minnows to established sides, speaks to his adaptability and longevity. Scoring 11 goals against a single national team is a remarkable feat, reflecting not just opportunity but ruthless efficiency when presented with the chance to score.

Messi’s preferred scoring opponents

Messi’s international scoring patterns, shaped largely by CONMEBOL competitions and qualifiers, reveal a different set of ‘victims’. According to Transfermarkt, Bolivia stands out as the national team Messi has scored against most often, with 11 goals in official matches.

Following Bolivia, teams such as Venezuela and Ecuador have also conceded multiple goals to Messi, highlighting his dominance in South American fixtures. Unlike Ronaldo’s European spread, Messi’s favorite opponents are clustered within a single confederation, reflecting the regional focus of Argentina’s competitive calendar.

The Argentine superstar’s scoring against these sides has often come in high-stakes contexts like World Cup qualifiers and Copa América tournaments, making his impact all the more significant. Repeatedly finding the net against the same opponents demonstrates not just skill, but consistency under pressure.

The club has learned that FIFA will compensate them for the winger’s absence, but early indications suggest that the figure is not only modest; it is also deeply perplexing to those within the Catalan institution.

Barcelona’s frustration has reached a boiling point after Raphinha suffered yet another injury while representing Brazil in a pre-2026 World Cup friendly. The club has learned that FIFA will compensate them for the winger’s absence, but early indications suggest that the figure is not only modest; it is also deeply perplexing to those within the Catalan institution. With tensions already high due to the congested schedule and the stakes of the season, the decision has only amplified Barcelona’s sense of injustice.

The injury, sustained during a friendly against France in the United States, came at a time when Barcelona was preparing for the most decisive weeks of their season. Now, the club must navigate a critical set of fixtures without one of its most influential attackers, a player who had been central to Hansi Flick’s tactical approach.

Brazil used the friendly as a test before the upcoming World Cup, but the Blaugrana argue that such matches place an excessive burden on players who already deal with an overloaded club calendar. Barcelona’s anger is rooted in the belief that national-team friendlies, particularly long-distance ones, carry risks that are disproportionate to their sporting relevance.

While Carlo Ancelotti’s players sought rhythm and cohesion in the singular context of national duty, Barcelona is left to cope with the consequences at club level. The Catalans feel that they have once again paid the price for what they believe are poorly timed fixtures organized beyond their control.

And although FIFA has activated its Club Protection Program, Barcelona has already expressed privately that the compensation offered is nowhere near enough to offset the sporting damage. In fact, Barcelona has discovered that the compensation amounts to around $155,000, a number the La Liga giant views as completely disproportionate to the magnitude of its loss.

The injury blow that changes Barcelona’s season

Raphinha suffered a right-thigh hamstring injury during Brazil’s friendly defeat to France in Boston, an incident that immediately triggered concern within Barcelona’s medical department. 

The club’s statement said, “The player is returning to Barcelona to begin the appropriate treatment. The estimated recovery time is five weeks.” This timeline rules the winger out of between five and seven La Liga matches and both legs of the Champions League quarter-finals against Atletico Madrid, with the potential for him to miss the first leg of a semi-final as well.

This is the player’s third hamstring injury of the season, following earlier issues in September and October. With 19 goals and eight assists across 31 matches, he had established himself as one of Hanis Flick’s most decisive players. His absence now shifts responsibilities toward Marcus Rashford, who could use this window to strengthen his case for a permanent stay.

Why Barcelona believes FIFA’s compensation is not enough

Barcelona’s irritation, as Mundo Deportivo reveals, stems from their perception that these friendlies, scheduled by national federations and often driven by commercial interests, place unnecessary risk on players. The club has argued privately that sending key players across the Atlantic weeks before crucial Champions League ties is borderline irresponsible. The fixture calendar, they say, is simply too compact to absorb such losses.

Under FIFA’s Club Protection Program, compensation is triggered when a player misses more than 28 days after being injured on international duty. In Raphinha’s case, Barcelona becomes eligible for payments beginning April 23. From that day onward, they receive $22,300 per day until the player is medically cleared, a system that theoretically covers absences up to 365 days.

However, because the 29-year-old forward is expected to return around April 28 or 29, Barcelona’s total payout will be roughly $155,000. This, according to club sources speaking to Sport, is viewed as “insufficient and bizarre,” considering the volume of matches he will miss and the competitive weight of those fixtures.

Former Italy midfielder Riccardo Montolivo has expressed concern about the mental state of Gennaro Gattuso’s squad ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup playoff final against Bosnia, calling on the players to approach the match with freedom rather than anxiety.

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Speaking to Sky Sport, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Montolivo pointed to Italy’s nervy start against Northern Ireland as a warning sign.

“I am a little concerned about the morale of our players,” he said.

“The team must not start as tense as they did against Northern Ireland, they need to be loose. That is the key issue, and we are also playing away from home. The manager will have to work on the players’ mindset.”

Montolivo: ‘I’d like to see Pio Esposito start for Italy’

On potential selection changes, Montolivo backed Pio Esposito for a starting role.

“I would like to see him from the first minute,” he said, though he acknowledged the value of an impact substitute, noting that those who come off the bench are often more decisive than those who start.

In midfield, Montolivo saw no reason to change personnel, defending Manuel Locatelli despite some early difficulties in the Northern Ireland match.

“He is having an excellent season and deserves his place in the national team,” he said.

“The other night he had some early difficulties but it was purely a tactical issue to adjust, nothing more.” He suggested any tweaks should be positional rather than involving personnel changes.

Tuesday’s World Cup playoff final against Bosnia in Zenica carries enormous consequences beyond the pitch, with prominent journalist Giancarlo Padovan warning that a third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup could trigger a complete overhaul of the FIGC’s senior leadership.

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Speaking on Radio Radio, via CalcioMercato, Padovan was unequivocal.

“I think that if Italy fail to qualify for the World Cup, the federation would be placed under external administration for a year with the current leadership wiped out,” he said.

FIGC boss Gravina in trouble if Italy miss out on World Cup

FIGC president Gabriele Gravina is the most prominent figure under threat.

Despite overseeing back-to-back World Cup absences, he was re-elected recently, running unopposed, and has so far survived significant pressure to step down.

A third consecutive failure to reach the tournament would make his position almost certainly untenable, according to Padovan, with other senior officials around him also at risk.

Italy face Bosnia knowing that only a victory will secure their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Gennaro Gattuso’s side won their semi-final against Northern Ireland and now stand one match away from ending a painful absence from the global stage.

Defeat, however, would set in motion what Padovan describes as a fundamental reset of Italian football’s governing structures.

Mario Giuffredi, one of Italian football’s most prominent agents, has spoken at length about several of his clients ahead of Italy’s World Cup playoff final against Bosnia, touching on Pio Esposito’s potential starting role, Matteo Politano’s remarkable evolution and Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s injury timeline.

On the question of whether Pio Esposito should start in Bosnia, Giuffredi was careful not to overstep, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“Gattuso will know how to make the right choices for the good of the national team, he does not need advice from anyone,” he said. “Pio Esposito is a boy with great personality. If he is called upon from the first minute, he will approach this match the same way he approaches every game, with simplicity. That is one of his qualities.”

After Pio Esposito comments, Giuffredi talks Napoli contingent

Politano, who impressed alongside Tonali in the win over Northern Ireland, drew particularly enthusiastic praise from his agent.

“When he was at Inter he was not mentally ready for the sacrifice his current role demands,” Giuffredi said. “Now he is more predisposed, mature, and he has accepted playing as a complete wide midfielder. He and Tonali were the best players on the pitch against Northern Ireland. The longer time goes on, the stronger he becomes, which is unusual, because most players’ performances start to decline.”

Di Lorenzo will not travel to Bosnia, having already made a significant personal sacrifice to attend the Northern Ireland match in Bergamo while managing a serious injury.

“He left after his afternoon therapy sessions and returned to Naples at 6am the next day,” Giuffredi revealed. The agent expressed hope that his client could return to action in the final week of April.

On Antonio Vergara, another Napoli client who has broken into Conte’s plans this season, Giuffredi expressed frustration that injury had struck at precisely the wrong moment. “He could have received a national team call-up. The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate.” A contract renewal is expected to be discussed at the end of the season.

Giuffredi also reserved special praise for Torino loanee Luca Marianucci, a former Napoli academy product. “I believe he will be part of Italy’s future,” he said firmly. “I have said the same about Hysaj, Mario Rui, Di Lorenzo and Politano over the years, and I have rarely been wrong about players from Napoli.”

Follow the live coverage of USMNT vs Belgium in an international friendly match.

The USMNT faced a tough test against Belgium, the strongest team they have played so far. In a result that raises plenty of questions, Belgium came out on top with a 5-2 victory in Atlanta.

After a promising first half where the USMNT had the better scoring opportunities, everything fell apart. Weston McKennie had put the team ahead with a set-piece goal, but a long-range strike just before halftime leveled the score and shifted the momentum.

Belgium dominated the second half, scoring three goals in 15 minutes to pull away. The rest of the match saw just one more goal for each side, making the final score 5-2 in a disappointing outing for the U.S.

The spotlight on Brazil has intensified dramatically in recent days, with Vinicius Junior and Raphinha unexpectedly finding themselves at the center of growing uncertainty.

The spotlight on Brazil has intensified dramatically in recent days, with Vinicius Junior and Raphinha unexpectedly finding themselves at the center of growing uncertainty. As the national team prepares for its next test, concerns are mounting, not just about results, but about player fitness at a critical stage of the season. What initially appeared to be routine squad management has quickly evolved into a situation carrying deeper implications.

For Brazil, the timing could hardly be worse. With key fixtures approaching and the countdown to the 2026 World Cup accelerating, every training session and every medical update carries added weight. The absence of two influential attacking players has sparked questions about readiness, rhythm, and the team’s overall attacking balance.

Behind the scenes, the situation is layered with complexity. Raphinha is already ruled out, while another remains in doubt, creating a ripple effect across tactical planning. Coaches and medical staff are working cautiously, aware that pushing too hard now could have longer-term consequences.

It is only upon closer inspection that the initial diagnosis revealed that there was, in fact, no injury for Vinicius, offering a crucial but cautious sense of relief amid the growing concern.

Vinicius doubt adds to growing anxiety

While Raphinha’s situation is clear, Vinicius Junior’s status remains uncertain, creating an additional layer of tension. The Real Madrid star did not train with the squad, instead remaining in the gym and undergoing treatment.

Globo Esporte now indicates that he is now a doubt for Brazil’s upcoming friendly against Croatia, a key preparation match ahead of the World Cup. Despite the reassuring early diagnosis, caution remains the priority.

The decision to keep him out of training reflects a broader strategy: protect the player now rather than risk aggravating any underlying issue. For a player of his importance, even minor discomfort is treated with maximum care.

Raphinha blow leaves Brazil and Barcelona reeling

The bigger setback, however, surrounds Raphinha, whose injury has been confirmed as a significant hamstring problem. The winger suffered the issue during Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to France, forcing him off at halftime and immediately raising alarms. According to the official statement: “Raphinha has a right hamstring injury… The estimated recovery time is five weeks.” This timeline delivers a major blow not only to the national team but also to his club, Barcelona.

With 19 goals and 8 assists in 31 appearances this season, the 29-year-old has been a cornerstone of the system, and his absence will be deeply felt. Crucially, he is now set to miss both legs of the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, along with key domestic fixtures.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti initially downplayed the issue, stating: “He had some muscle discomfort… we had to substitute him.” However, further tests confirmed the worst-case scenario, turning early optimism into a confirmed setback.

Cristiano Ronaldo's recovery journey has taken a decisive step forward, offering renewed optimism for his club, Al-Nassr.

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s recovery journey has taken a decisive step forward, offering renewed optimism for his club, Al-Nassr. After weeks of uncertainty surrounding his fitness, the veteran forward is now edging closer to a return that could reshape the final stretch of the season. For the Saudi giant, his comeback could not come at a more crucial time.

The injury, sustained during a dominant league victory, initially raised concerns about how long Ronaldo would remain sidelined. His absence not only affected results but also disrupted momentum during a pivotal phase of the campaign. Yet, recent developments suggest that the situation has improved significantly, with visible progress being made behind the scenes.

Images and updates shared by Ronaldo himself have fueled that optimism. Training sessions, even under difficult weather conditions, have demonstrated his determination to regain full fitness as quickly as possible. In a brief but telling message, he wrote “good to be back,” hinting at a positive shift in his recovery process.

While individual training marked an important milestone, the next phase—reintegrating with teammates—was always going to be the true indicator of readiness. Thus, Ronaldo has reportedly been cleared to rejoin group training starting Sunday, marking a crucial turning point in his recovery and bringing him closer to a competitive return.

Ronaldo steps up recovery with planned group training return

Following a rehabilitation period in Spain and continued treatment in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has now completed the most demanding phase of his recovery. According to Arriyadiyah, the club’s medical team has given him the green light to resume full training with the squad on Sunday.

This progression is significant. Individual sessions focus on regaining fitness, but group training signals readiness for match intensity, tactical integration, and physical contact. It is often the final hurdle before a player returns to competitive action.

Ronaldo himself hinted at this transition in a social media update, posting “On the ball”, suggesting he is close to rejoining full sessions while still carefully managing his workload.

Would Ronaldo be ready to face Al-Najma?

For Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s return could provide a major boost. The Riyadh side has navigated a challenging period without its captain, missing both his leadership and goal-scoring ability during key fixtures.

His absence came during a critical phase of the campaign, forcing the team to adapt without its focal point in attack. With important matches approaching, including a league clash against Al-Najma on April 3, the timing of his recovery could prove decisive.

There is a growing expectation that Ronaldo could be available for selection if his progress continues without setbacks. His return would not only strengthen the squad but also restore confidence as the season reaches its defining moments.

After weeks of uncertainty surrounding his fitness, the veteran forward is now edging closer to a return that could reshape the final stretch of the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s recovery journey has taken a decisive step forward, offering renewed optimism for his club, Al-Nassr. After weeks of uncertainty surrounding his fitness, the veteran forward is now edging closer to a return that could reshape the final stretch of the season. For the Saudi giant, his comeback could not come at a more crucial time.

The injury, sustained during a dominant league victory, initially raised concerns about how long Ronaldo would remain sidelined. His absence not only affected results but also disrupted momentum during a pivotal phase of the campaign. Yet, recent developments suggest that the situation has improved significantly, with visible progress being made behind the scenes.

Images and updates shared by Ronaldo himself have fueled that optimism. Training sessions, even under difficult weather conditions, have demonstrated his determination to regain full fitness as quickly as possible. In a brief but telling message, he wrote “good to be back,” hinting at a positive shift in his recovery process.

While individual training marked an important milestone, the next phase—reintegrating with teammates—was always going to be the true indicator of readiness. Thus, Ronaldo has reportedly been cleared to rejoin group training starting Sunday, marking a crucial turning point in his recovery and bringing him closer to a competitive return.

Ronaldo steps up recovery with planned group training return

Following a rehabilitation period in Spain and continued treatment in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has now completed the most demanding phase of his recovery. According to Arriyadiyah, the club’s medical team has given him the green light to resume full training with the squad on Sunday.

This progression is significant. Individual sessions focus on regaining fitness, but group training signals readiness for match intensity, tactical integration, and physical contact. It is often the final hurdle before a player returns to competitive action.

Ronaldo himself hinted at this transition in a social media update, posting “On the ball”, suggesting he is close to rejoining full sessions while still carefully managing his workload.

Would Ronaldo be ready to face Al-Najma?

For Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s return could provide a major boost. The Riyadh side has navigated a challenging period without its captain, missing both his leadership and goal-scoring ability during key fixtures.

His absence came during a critical phase of the campaign, forcing the team to adapt without its focal point in attack. With important matches approaching, including a league clash against Al-Najma on April 3, the timing of his recovery could prove decisive.

There is a growing expectation that Ronaldo could be available for selection if his progress continues without setbacks. His return would not only strengthen the squad but also restore confidence as the season reaches its defining moments.

Mexico take on Portugal in a 2026 international friendly. Here’s all the key information you need, including kickoff time and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

Mexico and Portugal are set to square off in a friendly that still carries plenty of intrigue despite a notable absence. Many fans had originally targeted this matchup as a chance to see Cristiano Ronaldo in action, but the Al Nassr forward will not be part of the squad for this one.

Even so, both sides enter with serious intent as they continue preparations for the 2026 World Cup, using this clash to evaluate talent and sharpen tactics. With two competitive teams eager to make a statement, this game has all the ingredients of an entertaining, high-tempo contest—so be sure to tune in and catch every minute.

Ardon Jashari has opened up on his settling-in period at Milan since arriving from Club Brugge in January, paying warm tribute to Massimiliano Allegri’s influence while outlining his personal ambitions at San Siro.

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The Swiss midfielder, who has been gradually integrating into Allegri’s squad since his winter move, was effusive in his praise for the Milan head coach in an interview with Il Foglio.

“He is a master for me, I try to learn as much as possible from him,” Jashari said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“He has great experience and speaks to me often. He tells me to get forward more, to play with intensity and to shoot when the opportunity arrives. He pushes me to improve even in training.”

Jashari: ‘I’m at Milan to win – for myself, the team and the fans’

The midfielder also acknowledged that his positional role has evolved significantly in recent years, suggesting Allegri’s guidance has been particularly valuable in helping him adapt.

His ambitions at the club are refreshingly straightforward.

“I am here to win, for myself, for the team, for the supporters,” he said. “I want to give my maximum every day, with enthusiasm and professionalism. I hope to wear this shirt for many more years.”

On the immediate priorities, Jashari was equally clear. Milan currently sit second in Serie A, six points behind Inter with eight games remaining, and the Swiss international knows what the minimum requirement looks like.

“We must think game by game, our objective is to return to the Champions League among the most important clubs in Europe,” he said. “We know we have to work hard, but that does not scare us.”

Manuel Akanji has delivered a confident and unambiguous message to Inter’s title rivals as the season enters its final stretch, insisting the Nerazzurri are focused solely on themselves and fear nobody in the race for both the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia.

The Swiss defender spoke to Sportmediaset, via CalcioMercato, following Switzerland’s thrilling 4-3 friendly defeat to Germany, a result that raised eyebrows despite the loss, but his mind is clearly already fixed on the decisive weeks ahead with Inter.

Cristian Chivu’s side sit six points clear at the top of Serie A with their nearest rivals closing in, and face a Coppa Italia semi-final second leg against Como at San Siro that could book their place in the final at the Stadio Olimpico.

Akanji: ‘Inter are not afraid of anyone’

Akanji was refreshingly direct when asked about the pressure of leading the title race.

“We are focused only on ourselves,” he said. “We don’t look at our opponents and above all we are not afraid of anyone, we just have to win our matches and if we do, we will be champions.”

He laughed as he delivered the line, but the conviction behind it was unmistakable.

On the Coppa Italia, Akanji was equally bullish.

“We want to win both competitions that remain, the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia,” he said. “In Serie A we are first with a six-point lead and we want to stay there until the end. The same goes for the cup. We have a home game against Como and we hope to win there too and lift the trophy.”

For a squad that has been dominant for much of the campaign, the confidence feels entirely earned. Whether it translates into silverware over the coming weeks remains to be seen, but Inter are clearly in no mood to let either prize slip from their grasp.

Milan are set to allow Niclas Fullkrug to return to West Ham at the end of the season, with the club already scouting for a replacement striker despite the German’s buyout clause sitting at just €5 million.

The striker joined on loan in January as an emergency measure with Milan’s attack badly depleted, but has failed to make the impact the club hoped for.

A foot injury has hampered his progress throughout, and a single goal in 14 appearances, covering just 429 minutes of football, has done little to change minds at senior level.

Milan unlikely to trigger Fullkrug option after disappointing loan

According to transfer journalist Matteo Moretto, via CalcioMercato, Milan viewed the deal as a straightforward loan from the outset, with the purchase option only ever intended to be triggered in the event of an exceptional contribution.

That contribution has not materialised, and despite the remarkably low buyout fee, unusually modest given Fullkrug’s contract with West Ham runs until June 2028, the club are not prepared to exercise it.

The Rossoneri have already instructed their scouting network to identify a striker with similar physical characteristics for the summer window.

As for Fullkrug himself, a return to London looks the most likely immediate outcome, though a move back to Germany, particularly if former club Schalke earn promotion to the Bundesliga, has not been ruled out as a longer-term possibility.

His brief spell in Serie A will be remembered as one that never truly got off the ground.

Portugal are facing Mexico at Estadio Azteca, and Cristiano Ronaldo is not part of the squad.

Physical issues will keep Mexican fans from enjoying Cristiano Ronaldo’s magic tonight at Estadio Azteca. The Portugal forward was left out of Roberto Martinez’s squad for the March FIFA international break, which is why he will not play against Mexico this Saturday or against the USMNT next Tuesday.

Ronaldo has been out of action for exactly one month. He last played an official match for Al Nassr on February 28, in a 3-1 win over Al Fayha in the Saudi Pro League. Following that performance, the forward was diagnosed with a hamstring injury that he is still recovering from.

This physical issue forced CR7 to miss his club’s last two league matches, but it has had an even bigger impact at the international level. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez was unable to include him in the squad for the March FIFA international break, during which the national team is facing Mexico and the USMNT.

That means Ronaldo will not return to action with Portugal before Martinez finalizes the 26-man roster that will represent the country at the 2026 World Cup, a decision that must be made by May 30. While this does not affect the forward’s chances of making the squad, it does represent a setback in the team’s preparation, as they will be without their biggest star at a key stage on the road to the FIFA tournament.

O 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗼 𝗡𝘂́𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗼 𝟭 da nossa preparação para o Mundial 📍🗺️ #VaiDarPortugal | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/2N8YKnRar3

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) March 28, 2026

Possible return date for Cristiano Ronaldo

At the time Ronaldo’s injury was confirmed in early March, Al Nassr avoided providing a specific timeline for his return, instead stating that “he started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day.”

Days later, Jorge Jesus was candid in acknowledging that the situation was not encouraging. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected,” said the Al Nassr coach.

Several weeks have passed since then, and Ronaldo has shown positive signs of nearing a full recovery with an optimistic message. “Good to be back! Looking good,” he said in a social media post. Based on that latest update, reports now indicate that CR7 could return on April 3, when Al Nassr face Al-Najma in the Saudi Pro League.

Who will replace Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal?

For Saturday night’s matchup vs. Mexico at Estadio Azteca, Roberto Martinez faces the challenge of finding a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. Reports indicate that Goncalo Ramos will take the center forward role in the starting lineup, supported in attack by Joao Felix and Pedro Neto.

Juventus and Dusan Vlahovic are edging closer to a contract renewal, but a formal meeting between all parties has yet to take place, and one is needed before any deal can be signed.

According to CalcioMercato, Vlahovic’s father Milos visited his son in Turin this week, but the timing did not align for a summit with the club, with CEO Damien Comolli abroad on scouting trips and international engagements.

Contract discussions therefore remained within the family circle, with a fresh meeting between all parties now expected before Easter.

The broad parameters of a deal are already understood by both sides.

Juventus will not go beyond the salary structure agreed with Kenan Yildiz in his recent renewal, meaning Vlahovic would need to accept a reduction to €6-7 million net per season, roughly half his current earnings.

In return, his entourage are pushing for a substantial signing-on bonus to offset the pay cut.

Juventus willing to give Vlahovic three-year extension

On contract length, there is agreement, a maximum of three years, potentially with an option in the club’s favour, replacing the five-year deal originally signed.

Vlahovic himself is understood to be genuinely open to staying.

A candid conversation with Luciano Spalletti, who has assured the Serbian striker of his central role in the attack going forward, has been pivotal in shifting his thinking.

Meanwhile, reported approaches from Barcelona and Premier League clubs have never materialised into concrete offers, with only Milan maintaining a communication channel without ever submitting a real proposal.

That lack of genuine alternatives strengthens Juventus’ hand in negotiations and could prove decisive.

Securing Vlahovic’s renewal would also free up what is expected to be a limited summer transfer budget for reinforcements in other positions, a practical consideration that makes the deal as important strategically as it is sporting.

A potential crisis is brewing at Napoli after Romelu Lukaku failed to return to the club following the international break with Belgium, opening what La Gazzetta dello Sport describes as a growing rift between the Belgian striker and the club.

For those with long memories, the situation carries uncomfortable echoes of previous episodes in Lukaku’s turbulent career, and Gazzetta has drawn the comparison explicitly, via CalcioNapoli, highlighting a pattern of behaviour that has surfaced at multiple clubs over the years.

The most striking parallel is with his departure from Manchester United in 2019.

Lukaku had been so determined to join Antonio Conte’s Inter that he engineered a dramatic exit from Old Trafford, making no secret of his desire to work with the Salento-born coach whom he has long regarded as a father figure.

That partnership delivered the Serie A title in 2020-21, albeit in the eerie silence of stadiums emptied by the Covid pandemic.

Lukaku & Conte relationship tense at Napoli

Now, with Conte once again his manager, this time at Napoli, the relationship that has defined Lukaku’s career appears to be under strain for the first time.

The Belgian’s decision to remain isolated in his homeland rather than report back to the club is being interpreted as a significant signal, particularly given that transfer windows are approaching and Lukaku has historically timed his periods of withdrawal to coincide with contract uncertainty.

Gazzetta’s verdict is blunt, Lukaku is a player capable of forming intense bonds with clubs and managers before abruptly reversing course when new opportunities arise.

Whether Conte can smooth things over with one of his most trusted attacking weapons remains to be seen, but the situation is one Napoli will need to resolve quickly with the season entering its decisive phase.

According to Marca, Inter star Alessandro Bastoni is open to joining Barcelona in the summer, yet club-to-club negotiations have not begun.

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Bastoni’s green light to Barcelona move

Inter defender Bastoni is reportedly open to discussing a summer move to Barcelona, according to Spanish newspaper Marca.

Bastoni is said to have already informed Barcelona that he’d consider a move to Camp Nou in 2026-27.

According to the report, even Inter are open to offers for their star defender, but Barcelona have not yet made a formal approach to the Serie A table leaders.

Bastoni has been linked with a summer move to Barcelona for several weeks. This past February, the Italian received praise from the Catalans’ defender, Pau Cubarsì, who described Bastoni as a “spectacular centre-back.”

Marca adds that Barcelona will be looking for a left-footed central defender who is dominant in the air for next season and that Bastoni is their primary target for 2026-27.

Inter, however, are unwilling to negotiate a sale for less than €70m.

Bastoni, 26, has proved his ability on both ends, scoring two goals and providing six assists in 35 appearances with Inter this season.

• More Inter transfers – Tottenham’s Vicario joins Inter and Juventus stars for Italy dinner amid transfer speculation

The projected lineups for the 2026 international friendly USMNT vs Belgium.

The international window continues with a friendly between the USMNT and Belgium at 3:30 PM ET. The match, set to be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, will be the seventh meeting between these teams, with Belgium leading the series 5-1.

The USMNT have some missing players, as Mauricio Pochettino confirmed in his press conference. The defense is the main area affected, with Miles Robinson and Chris Richards ruled out through injury.

Belgium are entering what could be one of the final chances for some players from their golden generation to win a trophy. Even if that will not be easy, they have improved with an attack that still looks as dangerous as ever.

USMNT vs Belgium lineups

Pochettino uses this lineup for the match: Matt Turner; Timothy Weah, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson; Tanner Tessmann, Johnny Cardoso; Weston McKennie, Malik Tillman, Christian Pulisic; Folarin Balogun.

Rudi García opts for this lineup: Senne Lammens; Thomas Meunier, Zeno Debast, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper; Nicolas Raskin, Amadou Onana; Jeremy Doku, Kevin De Bruyne, Alexis Saelemaekers; Charles De Ketelaere.

USMNT and Belgium World Cup groups

The World Cup draw has already defined the groups and opponents for both national teams. The USMNT are in Group D with Paraguay, Australia and the winner between Türkiye and Kosovo, while Belgium are in Group G with Egypt, Iran and New Zealand.

Emiliano Martinez admitted that Argentina could have run into trouble if they had faced Spain in the Finalissima.

The Finalissima between Argentina and Spain was scheduled to be played this Friday, but it was canceled days ago due to disagreements between the two countries’ associations over the organization of the match, which was originally set to take place in Qatar. Now, Emiliano Martinez has admitted he is relieved the clash was called off.

“Good thing it wasn’t played,” Martinez said when asked about the scrapped matchup against Spain in an interview with TyC Sports following Friday’s 2-1 win over Mauritania in Buenos Aires. “If we played like that, we would have lost.”

The goalkeeper was visibly frustrated with Argentina’s performance in the friendly, in which they barely secured a narrow win against an opponent ranked No. 115 in the FIFA Rankings and one that failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

“It was one of the worst friendlies we’ve played. We lacked intensity, buildup play, speed, and defensive solidity. It’s something we have to analyze,” Martinez admitted. “Every time we put on the national team shirt, we have to do a little better—we need to show more heart.”

𝑫𝒊𝒃𝒖 🧤 pic.twitter.com/QQYjsTCImQ

— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) March 27, 2026

Dibu Martinez confident in Argentina ahead of the World Cup

Despite his criticism of Argentina’s performance against Mauritania, Emiliano Martinez expressed confidence heading into the 2026 World Cup. In particular, he was asked about the opinion of some Spanish journalists, who argued after the Finalissima cancellation that Lionel Scaloni’s side are unlikely to advance beyond the quarterfinals this summer in North America.

“The last World Cup was similar—we didn’t play many big matches beforehand and still had a great tournament,” said the Aston Villa goalkeeper, before delivering a pointed message toward Spain: “It’s one game at a time. We have experience going deep in the World Cup—they don’t.”

What’s next for Argentina?

Following the 2-1 win over Mauritania, Argentina will now have several days to rest and train before their next challenge. On Tuesday, they will face Zambia, also in Buenos Aires, in what will be their final home match before the 2026 World Cup.

By late May, Lionel Scaloni will have to finalize the 26-man roster that will represent Argentina in this summer’s FIFA tournament. During the June international break, they will play two friendlies in the United States before their group-stage opener. One of those matches will likely be against Serbia, as Scaloni acknowledged earlier this week.

United States will face Belgium in a 2026 international friendly. Here’s all the key information you need, including kickoff time and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawing closer and most of the field already locked in, high-profile friendlies are ramping up across the globe—and this matchup fits the bill. The United States, automatically qualified as a host nation, continues fine-tuning its roster with the clear goal of peaking on home soil.

Belgium, meanwhile, arrives with a deep and dangerous squad capable of making a serious run on the world stage, adding extra intrigue to this clash. With both sides using this opportunity to measure themselves against elite competition, this is the kind of tune-up fans won’t want to miss.

Italy players enjoyed an evening off on Friday, and Inter target Guglielmo Vicario, who has joined the national team despite a recent surgery, was spotted at dinner with four Nerazzurri stars.

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Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso gave his players a Friday evening off after a day of training at Coverciano, the day after a 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final.

As reported by Gazzetta, a group of Azzurri players, including Inter’s Federico Dimarco, Nicolò Barella, Alessandro Bastoni, and Francesco Pio Esposito, went out for dinner at a restaurant not too far from the Azzurri training centre.

Juventus’ Manuel Locatelli and Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario were also at the table and posed for photos with the restaurant owner, who later shared them on social media.

Several sources have been reporting for weeks that Vicario is Inter’s top goalkeeping target for next season, so his private dinner with some of the most influential Nerazzurri players has fuelled transfer speculation in Italy.

Tuttosport reported earlier this month that even Juventus had begun preliminary talks with the goalkeeper’s entourage.

Vicario recently underwent hernia surgery, so he’s not available for the World Cup play-off, but he still joined his teammates in Coverciano last week.

Italy players enjoy an evening out in Florence

 

Miralem Pjanic, a former Juventus and Roma star, says he doesn’t understand why Italy celebrated Bosnia and Herzegovina’s win over Wales: ‘They’ll need personality in Zenica.’

Ex-Serie A star Pjanic commented on Italy’s celebration of Bosnia’s victory against Wales in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport.

Pjanic: ‘I don’t understand’ Italy’s celebration

“I don’t understand why,” said the ex-midfielder.

“Bosnia is waiting for them with open arms,” he added, smiling.

“We’ll see how it ends, anyway. Italy is Italy, and we have the utmost respect, but who knows?

“They’ll have to be good at playing a game in a terrible environment. They’ll need personality to leave Zenica with a victory.”

Pjanic also spoke to Sky Sport Italia, warning the Azzurri that the atmosphere in his country will be far from friendly on Tuesday.

Italy secured a home 2-0 win over Northern Ireland on Thursday to qualify for the World Cup play-off Final, while Bosnia and Herzegovina needed penalties to beat Wales away.

Some Italian players, including Federico Dimarco, were caught on camera celebrating Bosnia’s victory, and the video has quickly gone viral on social media.

Dimarco explained his reaction at a press conference on Saturday, insisting that he was not arrogant and that it was “disrespectful” to show the Azzurri’s celebration on live TV.

Pjanic scored 42 goals in 281 Serie A appearances with Roma and Juventus.

He won four Serie A titles with the Bianconeri and retired last year.

The World Cup play-off Final between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina will be played in Zenica on Tuesday, March 31 at 20:45 CET.

Italy have an allocation of 500 tickets for the World Cup play-off Final against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Tuesday.

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Sky Sport Italia reports that only 500 Italian fans will be allowed in the away sector at Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Tuesday for the World Cup play-off Final between the Azzurri and the home side, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

A draw determined the home side in December.

The stadium has a capacity of 15,600, which, however, has been reduced by 2,100 seats by FIFA following incidents during Bosnia’s most recent home match against Romania in November 2025.

The Bosnian Football Federation has already confirmed that all the tickets available for the Final against Italy were sold just a few hours after their victory on penalties against Wales in the semis on Thursday.

Date and time for World Cup play-off final

On the same day, Italy beat Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo with goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean.

The World Cup play-off Final will be next Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT).

Kevin De Bruyne admits Romelu Lukaku is ‘not in a good situation’ but feels that whatever happens at Napoli ‘gets amplified.’

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Belgium star De Bruyne commented on the latest incident involving his compatriot and Napoli teammate Lukaku during a press conference on Saturday.

De Bruyne comments on Lukaku’s Napoli row

Lukaku has remained in Belgium without Napoli’s consent as he aims to train individually to regain full fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The Partenopei are furious with the 32-year-old and will freeze him out of the team if he fails to return to the club’s training centre by next Tuesday.

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia sided with Lukaku and said he hopes the striker will get more playing time at Napoli after the break.

“There’s always a lot of noise around Napoli. If something happens, it gets amplified. I don’t know the details or what exactly happened,” De Bruyne added, via Gazzetta, while on Belgium international duty.

“But it’s not a good situation for Romelu. There was a long-lasting injury, and I just hope he returns as soon as possible.”

Lukaku is currently in Antwerp, training at the same clinic where De Bruyne was treated for a high-degree muscle injury over the last few months.

De Bruyne has recently returned to action for the Partenopei, while Lukaku has only made seven appearances across all competitions, playing barely 60 minutes and scoring one goal.

“Romelu and I followed a similar path after our injuries. I did a full rehabilitation [in Belgium], Romelu partially in Antwerp and partially in Naples,” concluded De Bruyne.

“When there are two different views, it’s hard to work together. There have been differences, and this is not ideal if you aim to get back in shape.”

Scotland play against Japan in a 2026 international friendly. Here’s all the key information you need, including kickoff time and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

With the World Cup on the horizon, a compelling international friendly pits two determined sides eager to sharpen their edge before the global stage. Japan enters as a disciplined and steadily rising program, building on three decades of growth and now pushing toward a deeper breakthrough.

Across the pitch, Scotland arrives with a proud World Cup pedigree and renewed momentum, marking its return after a six-year absence and focusing on dialing in every detail ahead of the tournament. With both teams treating this as a crucial tune-up, this is a showdown you won’t want to miss.

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia sides with Romelu Lukaku, who has to follow a ‘specific program’ to get back in shape and hopes the 32-year-old will get ‘more playing time’ when he returns to Napoli.

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Belgium coach Garcia, a former Napoli tactician, appeared to back Lukaku despite the striker’s decision to cancel his return to Naples to train individually in Belgium during the break.

Belgium coach defends Lukaku after Napoli row

Lukaku broke the internal rules at Napoli and will be fined by the club. According to several sources, the Partenopei will even freeze him out of the team if he fails to return by next Tuesday.

Lukaku initially joined the Belgian national team during the March break, but was soon left out because of his poor form.

“Lukaku was not 100% fit, and he had to follow a specific program to recover,” Garcia explained at a press conference on Saturday, via Gazzetta.

“It’s normal for him to want to be at the top. When you are not, the mental aspect plays a significant role because there’s a fear of getting injured again. We understand him. Totti had the same injury, and we know it takes time to recover from something like that.”

Lukaku sustained a severe muscle injury during the pre-season and has played barely 60 minutes across all competitions this season, scoring one goal in seven appearances.

“I hope Lukaku can return to Napoli soon and get more playing time there,” continued Garcia.

“It’s important for the club and for us that he returns to full fitness as soon as possible. We must convince everyone that Romelu needs to do what he thinks is best to get in his best shape, physically and mentally.”

A former Napoli coach, Garcia, is not on good terms with President Aurelio De Laurentiis. Last year, the coach said he had enjoyed “everything” of his time at the club, except for the owner.

Read more – De Bruyne admits: ‘Not a good situation’ for Lukaku at Napoli

During his press conference at Coverciano today, Italy star Federico Dimarco said the Azzurri would mostly need ‘mental strength’ in the World Cup play-off Final against Bosnia and Herzegovina next week.

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Dimarco met reporters at Coverciano on Saturday, three days before the World Cup play-off Final against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Dimarco’s Italy press conference ahead of World Cup play-off Final

“We expect a fiery atmosphere and a team that has the same desire to qualify for the World Cup,” said the Inter defender via TMW.

“We need a bit of everything. We’ve been missing at the World Cup for too long, and we absolutely want to earn qualification because we deserve it.

“This is a group that has fun together. We must take it. We must be mentally strong. We know the environment, but if we stay in the game for the full 95 minutes, I believe we’ll take it home.”

When asked about the “best quality” the Azzurri will need to show in Zenica on Tuesday, Dimarco replied: “Mental strength. After a somewhat tense first half and Retegui’s missed opportunity, we didn’t get discouraged.

“One might have started seeing the ghosts, but instead, we stayed there; we scored the first goal and then killed it off with Moise. We remained focused for the whole 90 minutes.

“In the end, it’s the head that controls the legs; we know we’ll face a strong team,” he continued.

“They have a few players from our league, and we’ll have to be good in every aspect. They’ll attack strongly, and we’ll have to hit back.”

During his press conference, Dimarco explained his reaction to Bosnia’s win over Wales on Thursday, saying it was disrespectful to show it live on TV.

Dimarco also confirmed that he texted his former Inter teammate and Bosnia captain, Edin Dzeko, after the video went viral.

“He’s such a great person; you had to provide assists to him to make him happy,” Dimarco said.

“I also met him on holiday last summer, and I know him really well.”

Dimarco has contributed to 22 Inter goals in 38 appearances this season, and one of his Nerazzurri teammates, Francesco Pio Esposito, is tipped to start against Bosnia next week.

“I’m having a good season, but as I’ve always said, personal achievements count little. The results are what matter; otherwise, numbers are meaningless,” Dimarco concluded.

“Pio is in this group because he deserves it; but the coach decides whether he plays or not.

“He’s truly a special lad because, despite his age, he’s ahead mentally. It’s really hard to get angry with him because he always gives 100% in games and training sessions. This explains his growth in the last six or seven months. There is little advice to give him, because it’s useless to put more pressure on him.”

Dimarco, 28, has scored three goals in 37 appearances with the Italy national team, making his senior debut in June 2022.

 

Italy defender Federico Dimarco insists he respects Bosnia and Herzegovina and confirms he texted Edin Dzeko, but believes it was ‘disrespectful’ to show his celebration on TV.

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Dimarco made headlines following Italy’s win over Northern Ireland on Thursday as he and other Italy players were caught on camera while celebrating Bosnia and Herzegovina’s win on penalties against Wales.

The Azzurri had just beaten Northern Ireland 2-0 and were following the outcome of the penalty shootout in the other World Cup play-off semifinal on their phones.

Dimarco spoke for the first time about the incident during a press conference in Coveciano on Saturday: “I’m here, given that after the game against Northern Ireland, I was the protagonist of an incident. I respect every club and every country; it was an instinctive reaction,” the Inter star explained via TMW.

“I was simply watching the penalty shootout with my teammates. Dzeko also plays for Bosnia. I played with him for two years, and I texted him. He replied to me, and I’m happy to see him in the final.”

Dzeko is the Bosnia and Herzegovina captain, and his late goal against Wales on Thursday night forced the game to extra time and then penalties.

Two other Serie A players, Tarik Muharemovic of Sassuolo and Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta, are part of the Bosnia squad and are expected to start against Italy next Tuesday.

“I didn’t lack respect for Bosnia or the Bosnian people,” concluded Dimarco.

“It was said I was arrogant; with what right, since we haven’t been at the World Cup since 2014? How could I be arrogant? That said, I believe it was disrespectful to be filmed in a context where there were also friends, family, and children present.”

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma’s Manu Koné remains a top Inter target for next season, and the Nerazzurri could offer Davide Frattesi in a player-plus-cash swap deal.

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Inter will make a new attempt to sign Roma midfielder Koné next summer, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports.

Inter’s new attempt for Koné next summer

The Serie A leaders already tempted the Giallorossi and the France international with a formal offer last summer, but the Roma owners blocked the midfielder’s exit.

According to Gazzetta, the Nerazzurri are determined to add physical strength to their midfield in 2026-27, so Koné remains very high on their summer agenda.

The Pink Paper claims that Inter would even be ready to invest up to €50m to sign the Frenchman, but one way to potentially reduce costs would be to include Italy international Frattesi in the deal.

Roma will face strong interest in Koné next summer, and the Giallorossi might be forced to sell one of their stars for financial reasons if they don’t qualify for the Champions League.

Frattesi has been struggling for playing time under Cristian Chivu this season, and he has already played in Roma’s youth sector from 2014 to 2017.

The Italian midfielder has provided only three assists in 29 appearances across all competitions with Inter this season, without scoring.

Senegal face Peru in a 2026 international friendly. Here’s all the key information you need, including kickoff time and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

After a difficult World Cup qualifying campaign, Peru enters this international friendly in search of a reset, aiming to rebuild confidence and shift momentum against a top-tier opponent. Standing in their way is a red-hot Senegal squad that continues to build on an impressive AFCON run.

Peruvians want to use this matchup as another step in fine-tuning a roster with clear World Cup ambitions. With one team looking to turn the page and the other pushing forward at full speed, this clash delivers an intriguing contrast that fans won’t want to miss.

The capacity of Zenica’s Bilino Polje Stadium, the venue of the World Cup play-off Final between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina, was reduced by 20% by a FIFA ruling this past January, so over 2,100 seats will be unavailable for the match against the Azzurri.

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Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina will meet in the World Cup play-off Final on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Why World Cup play-off Stadium final has limited capacity

The stadium chosen by the Bosnian federation is Bilino Polje in Zenica, with a capacity of 15,600. 

The World Cup play-off Final against Italy, however, will be played with fewer fans in the stands due to a FIFA decision dating back to this past January.

FIFA reported several incidents during the most recent Bosnia and Herzegovina home match against Romania on November 15, 2025, so the Bosnian federation received a fine and a warning, and was ordered to play the following home match with a reduced capacity.

FIFA reported “Team misconduct, discrimination and racist abuse, lighting of fireworks or any other objects causing a disturbance during national anthems and a lack of order or discipline in or around the stadium.”

The Bosnian federation confirmed FIFA’s decision in a statement in January: “Due to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee decision (No. FDD-26056) dated January 9 2026, ordering partial stadium closure for the next qualifying match, FFBiH must reduce the number of commercial tickets for the playoff in Zenica on March 31 2026.

“The sanction was imposed following incidents at the FIFA World Cup qualifier Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Romania match. The ruling requires closure of at least 20% of available seats, primarily behind the goals. As a result, the South stand blocks B, C, and D will be fully closed (1508 seats), along with part of the West stand (first three rows, 592 seats), totalling 2100 seats unavailable for this crucial match.”

The Bosnian Federation announced on Friday that all tickets for the World Cup final against Italy had sold out just hours after a penalty shootout victory over Wales in the semis.

Italy’s Minister for Sport and Youth, Andrea Abodi, believes that the Azzurri’s celebration of Bosnia’s victory over Wales has been overemphasised: ‘There doesn’t seem to be anything provocative.’

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Minister for Sport: No ‘excessive enthusiasm’ in Italy’s celebration

A group of Italian players was caught on camera on Thursday night while briefly celebrating Bosnia and Herzegovina’s penalty shootout win over Wales in the World Cup play-off semifinal.

The victory sent Bosnia to the Final against Italy as the Azzurri had beaten Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo.

The celebration by Italian players upset a few fans on social media and even prompted one of the players involved, Federico Dimarco, to text his former Inter teammate and Bosnia captain Edin Dzeko, according to Gazzetta.

Italy’s Minister for Sport Abodi, however, defended the Azzurri, arguing that the players did not want to provoke or mock their next opponents.

“It doesn’t seem to me that there was excessive enthusiasm,” Abodi told Gazzetta.

“I don’t even know what they were thinking at that moment. I don’t understand why that celebration was given so much importance. We’re talking about guys who had just finished a match, and there doesn’t seem to be anything provocative. Let’s try to move on. We already have plenty of objectively complicated things, and this is a controversy that doesn’t make any sense.”

Italy have returned to Florence to prepare for the World Cup play-off Final, which will be played at the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica, on Tuesday, March 31.

• Read more – Dimarco unwise to celebrate, but televising incident only harms Italy

 

Former Serie A referee Nicola Rizzoli recalls a classy gesture from Roberto Baggio during a tense Serie A match between Lazio and Brescia: ‘We won’t make things difficult for you.’

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Baggio is rightly regarded as one of the greatest Italian players ever, as his class and style inspired millions of fans in Italy and abroad.

His quality, however, was not only about his ability with the ball, as former referee Rizzoli told Gazzetta dello Sport.

“I refereed my second Serie A match at the Olimpico in Rome, Lazio against Brescia,” Rizzoli said.

Baggio told referee: ‘Let me know’ if my players put you under pressure

“I was about 29-30 years old. It had the potential to be a difficult game, but I felt good. You could have expected a 2-0 or 3-0 win for Lazio, but after four minutes, Luigi Di Biagio scored, and Brescia went ahead. The match changed in terms of tension and dynamics; it didn’t become easy.

“Between the first and second half, as we were going back onto the pitch, Baggio came up to me and said: ‘Look, you’re refereeing really well.’ He didn’t know who I was. Then he added: ‘We won’t make things difficult for you. If any of my players tries to put you under pressure, tell me. I’ll take care of it.’

“That gives you an idea of the willingness to let you do your job properly, even though I was just a young referee that nobody knew,” Rizzoli concluded.

“These kinds of moments help you understand the athletes’ level.”

Rizzoli went on to become one of the most respected Italian referees, officiating many big games, domestically and abroad, such as the 2014 World Cup Final between Germany and Argentina and the 2012-13 Final between Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich.

 

Juventus target Bernardo Silva hints at a possible summer exit, saying that Manchester is ‘not 100 per cent what I would ideally want in my life,’ but also admits: ‘If Manchester City were in Lisbon, I would stay until I’m 40.’

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Bernardo Silva’s contract with Manchester City expires at the end of the season, and according to Italian sources, Juventus are determined to make a move to sign the Portuguese star as a free agent this summer.

During an interview with the official Manchester City Podcast, the 31-year-old spoke about his life on and off the pitch in Manchester, leaving the door open for a possible summer exit.

“I have two sides of my life; I have the football side of my life, the professional side of my life, and then my life at home, where my wife and my daughter right now are really, really important to me,” Silva said as quoted by City Xtra.

“So, I definitely need a balance and to understand throughout my life, I always make decisions together with my wife, what was best for our family. Culturally, Portuguese and English are quite different; the weather is very different, the food is very different, the way of living is not very different but a bit different.

“I always joke and say that if Manchester City was located a bit more (in the) south of Europe, I would stay here until people kicked my ass out of the club,” he continued.

“Because I truly love the football club, I love my teammates, I love the staff, I love the fans, I love the (Etihad) stadium, I love the atmosphere, I love everything about my professional life.

“Then, the other side of my life, it’s different because I’m not saying that I don’t like, but culturally it’s not 100 per cent what I would ideally want in my life.”

Juventus and Benfica both interested in Bernardo Silva

Silva’s latest comments have been widely reported on Italian media, suggesting that the midfielder’s exit at the end of the season seems very likely.

On the one hand, it’s good news for Juventus, but on the other hand, Benfica are also said to be interested in the Portuguese star, and a return to his native country surely appeals to the Manchester City captain.

“Before I met my wife, I was alone in Manchester for a while, and I didn’t feel that well about myself,” Bernardo Silva continued.

“And I definitely thought a lot about leaving, not because I didn’t like the football club – which I really love – but because of the other side of my life. And at the end, it didn’t happen.

“I’m really happy that it didn’t! I’m really happy because I would’ve probably lost the opportunity to live the memories of the treble, the four-in-a-row, even now, these memories, this opportunity of being a captain, being in the leadership group and passing all this experience on to the young guys, and trying to put the club back it deserves to be.

“But if Manchester City were in Lisbon, I would stay until I’m 40.”

Lionel Messi looked impressed as Como talent Nico Paz scored his first goal for Argentina from a free kick last night.

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Como talent Nico Paz bagged his first goal for Argentina last night in a 2-1 friendly win over Mauritania at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires.

Paz made his senior Argentina debut in 2024, and last night marked his seventh international appearance with the defending World Cup champions.

Paz scored an excellent free kick at minute 31, while Barcelona legend Messi, watching from the sidelines, applauded the talent from Como after the goal.

Video: First Nico Paz goal for Argentina

Nico Paz has magic in his left foot pic.twitter.com/LDyNNchQc8

— WolfRMFC (@WolfRMFC) March 28, 2026

Nico Paz apontou o gol de falta que fez pro Messi no banco de reservas.

pic.twitter.com/w90kjeicgq

— LM10 Brasil (@MessiLeoBrasil_) March 28, 2026

Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown has been linked with a move away from the German club in recent months.

According to a report from FussballDaten, the 22-year-old is a target for Premier League clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City. Scouts from all four clubs have been looking at the player extensively, and Manchester United, in particular, are very keen on him as a long-term replacement for Luke Shaw.

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Nathaniel Brown is a player in demand

In Spain, Real Madrid and Barcelona are also monitoring his development. It remains to be seen in which of these clubs follow up on their interest with an official offer to get the deal done. The player could cost around €55 million.

He has proven his quality in Germany, and he has the technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League as well.

Frankfurt are open to selling the player, and they plan to invest the proceeds from his departure to improve the squad in multiple areas. Even though they are worried about losing him, they believe that he will fetch a substantial transfer fee for them.

Brown is regarded as the “next superstar” from the Bundesliga.

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Liverpool or Man United move is ideal for Brown

Arsenal and Manchester City already have multiple options in the left-back department, and it would be quite surprising if they decided to move for the player. A transfer to Liverpool or Manchester United would be ideal for the player. Liverpool needs a long-term replacement for Andrew Robertson, and the German would be the ideal acquisition.

He has proven himself to be a capable performer at both ends of the pitch, and he would be an asset for Liverpool if they manage to sign him.

The post Man United and Liverpool circle ‘next superstar’ in €55M transfer race appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are interested in signing Murillo from Nottingham Forest in the summer.

According to a report from TeamTalk, Liverpool has scouted him extensively and is prepared to offer €80 million to secure the deal. The report further claims that an exit is ‘very likely’ in the summer for the Brazilian.

The 23-year-old wants to compete at a high level, and joining Liverpool could be exciting for him. Murillo has also been linked with Chelsea.

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Arsenal and Man United want Murillo

Arsenal have also been linked with the player, but they might find it difficult to accommodate him in the starting line-up. They are already well-stocked in the defensive unit.

On the other hand, Manchester United could certainly use more quality at the back, and the Brazilian would be an excellent addition. He could be the ideal long-term replacement for Harry Maguire. The 23-year-old has been a reliable performer in the Premier League, and he has the quality to improve Liverpool and Manchester United. The opportunity to join them will be hard for the young defender to turn down.

Nottingham Forest will not want to lose a quality player like him, but an offer of €80 million (£70m) will be hard to turn down. Also, the Brazilian could have his head turned if there is a concrete proposal from clubs like Liverpool on the table.

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Liverpool could use Murillo

Liverpool have looked vulnerable at the back this season, and they need to improve defensively. Signing the Brazilian would be ideal for them. He could replace Ibrahima Konate, who will be a free agent in the summer.

It remains to be seen which of the three clubs can win the race for his signature. The defender is likely to want to join a club where he can regularly fight for trophies and play every week.

The post Liverpool prepare £70m offer as Arsenal & Man United join high-stakes chase for Brazilian appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United are looking to improve the defensive unit with the signing of Italian defender Alessandro Buongiorno at the end of the season.

According to a report from Sports Boom, the 26-year-old defender has attracted the attention of Newcastle with his performances for Napoli and the Italian national team. He has the physicality to succeed in the Premier League, and he could prove to be an excellent addition.

Buongiorno has also been linked with Tottenham in recent months. Chelsea wanted to sign the defender a year ago as well.

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Newcastle could use Alessandro Buongiorno

Newcastle need to improve that area of the pitch. Signing a quality defender could be a wise decision for them in the summer. It remains to be seen whether Napoli is prepared to sanction his departure. Buongiorno has been an important player for them, and they will not want to weaken the team.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have looked quite vulnerable at the back this season, and they need to improve defensively if they want to compete in Europe regularly and fight for trophies. They are likely to miss out on Champions League qualification this season, and they need to address the team’s weaknesses to bounce back strongly next year.

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Can Newcastle convince Buongiorno?

They are one of the wealthiest clubs in the world, and they have an ambitious project. It remains to be seen whether they can convince the 26-year-old Italian defender to join the club.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United defender Sven Botman is reportedly a target for Chelsea. It remains to be seen whether Newcastle sign the 26-year-old Italian as a replacement for the Netherlands International.

The Italian defender cost Napoli £30 million, and they are likely to demand a premium if Newcastle comes calling in the summer. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

The post Newcastle plot bold move for 26-year-old title-winner to fix key weakness appeared first on CaughtOffside.

It is no secret that Liverpool are looking to bring in a quality winner in the summer, and they have identified Francisco Conceicao as a target.

According to a report from Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t SportWitness), they have made early checks on the 23-year-old Portuguese international, and it will be interesting to see if they come forward with an official proposal to sign him.

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Francisco Conceicao has impressed with Juventus

The Portuguese attacker has done reasonably well for Juventus, with seven goal contributions in 34 matches across all competitions. Even though he is not lighting up the Italian league with his numbers, his performance has been impressive. He has been a decisive player for Juventus in the final third, and Liverpool needs more cutting-edge in the attack. The 23-year-old will add unpredictability and pace to the Liverpool team.

It will be interesting to see if Liverpool follows up on their interest with an official offer to the player. They are looking at multiple attacking players right now.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have also been linked with Conceicao in the past.

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Conceicao to replace Salah?

Mohamed Salah is set to leave the club in the summer, and they need to replace him properly. He has been a club legend for them, and his numbers have been exceptional since joining. Replacing him will be a massive challenge for Liverpool, and they need to work hard in order to fill the void left by the Egyptian.

Conceicao is a young player with a lot of potential. Even though his numbers are not world-class yet, there is plenty of room for growth. Regular football in the Premier League could help him improve further and accelerate his development. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

The post Liverpool ready to take a gamble on high-potential 23-year-old attacker appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Moroccan international Brahim Diaz from Real Madrid.

The 26-year-old has been a very important player for Real Madrid, and they do not want to lose him. However, they need to improve the squad, and they could free up space by selling him for the right offer.

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Arsenal and Tottenham keen on Brahim Diaz

According to a report from Sports Boom, Arsenal and Tottenham are very interested in signing the “match-winner”, and an offer of around €45 million could get the deal done. The two London clubs are very serious about securing his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. Brentford and Crystal Palace are also interested in the AFCON Golden Boot winner.

Liverpool have also been linked with the player recently.

The report claims that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is an admirer of Diaz, and Arsenal are preparing an offer of €35 million plus bonuses to sign the player.

It remains to be seen whether Tottenham follows up on their interest with an official proposal to sign the player. They wanted to sign Diaz when Thomas Frank was in charge as well.

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Diaz would be a superb addition

Both clubs need more quality in the final third, and the 26-year-old is a dynamic attacker who can slot into multiple roles and help them improve. His ability to create chances and find the back of the net makes him a very handy asset.

The opportunity to play regularly in the Premier League could be exciting for the Moroccan. He will not want to sit on the Real Madrid bench as a squad option. He is at the peak of his career, and he needs more gametime. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few months.

The post Arsenal prepare €35m offer for La Liga “match-winner” as Tottenham enter race appeared first on CaughtOffside.

San Marino take on Faroe Islands in a 2026 international friendly. Here’s all the key information you need, including kickoff time and how to watch the match on TV or through streaming platforms in the United States.

Match Overview

Two of UEFA’s emerging underdogs meet as San Marino team takes on Faroe Islands team in a matchup that’s more competitive than it may appear on paper. San Marino is coming off a historic Nations League campaign that delivered its first group win and promotion to League C.

Meanwhile, the Faroe Islands continue to build momentum after an impressive third-place finish in qualifying. With both sides focused on growth ahead of the next Nations League, this game offers a glimpse at two programs trending upward.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Federico Dimarco texted his former Inter teammate Edin Dzeko on Friday after a video of Italy players celebrating Bosnia’s win over Wales went viral on social media.

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Dimarco and a group of Italian players were caught on camera celebrating Bosnia and Herzegovina’s penalty shootout win over Wales on Thursday.

The video quickly went viral on social media, upsetting some Bosnia fans.

According to Gazzetta, the FIGC believes the incident was blown out of proportion, yet Dimarco reportedly texted Bosnia captain Dzeko on Friday to explain his reaction.

According to the report (via FcInter1908), the Inter defender and the ex-Nerazzurri star had a friendly exchange via WhatsApp, in which Dimarco clarified the Azzurri’s intentions.

Dimarco and Dzeko spent two years together at Inter, from 2021 to 2023, winning the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana twice.

Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina will meet in the World Cup play-off Final on Tuesday, March 31, in Zenica.

• Read more – Dimarco unwise to celebrate, but televising incident only harms Italy

La Gazzetta dello Sport

World Cup goals needed: Kean is there, Pio Esposito challenges Retegui

We give you America

Esposito tempts Gattuso. Promoted to starter in the Final? Bosnia furious with Italy: ‘Arrogant Azzurri, they celebrate our qualification…’ And Dimarco writes to Dzeko…

Lukaku is frozen out if he doesn’t return by Tuesday

Inter pounce on Diaby again on the right.

Due to the journalists’ national strike in Italy, La Gazzetta dello Sport is the only newspaper out today.

 

Manchester United and Liverpool are interested in signing the Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni during the summer transfer window.

According to reports from Spain, there is strong interest from several Premier League clubs in the French International, but Manchester United and Liverpool appear to be pushing hard for him.

Tchouameni has also been linked with Chelsea.

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Man United and Liverpool want Aurelien Tchouameni

The report claims that the two clubs are plotting substantial offers for the midfielder, and they could offer him a contract significantly higher than his current Real Madrid salary of €240k-a-week.

Manchester United need a quality defensive midfielder, especially with Casemiro leaving the club in the summer. There is no doubt that the French International will help them improve.

Similarly, Liverpool need an anchor in the middle of the park as well. They have used Ryan Gravenberch in that role, but the Netherlands International is better suited to central midfield. Having a natural defensive midfielder in the team will help Liverpool.

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Tchouameni move seems unlikely

It will be interesting to see if either of the two Premier League clubs can convince the Amit thriller. He is happy at Real Madrid, and he wants to continue pushing for major trophies with them. He has no desire to force an exit right now.

On the other hand, Real Madrid have no plans of selling the player either. They are preparing a contract renewal for him, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops.

It seems unlikely that they will be able to sign the Real Madrid player, even though they are interested in breaking the Bank for him. It will be difficult for them to convince the Spanish club and the player.

Tchouameni is well settled in La Liga and will not want to disrupt continuity.

The post Liverpool and Man United ready blockbuster offers for €240k-a-week La Liga star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Everton are interested in signing the Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio at the end of the season.

According to reports from Spain, West Ham United are keen on the 23-year-old defender as well, but Everton have emerged as the main contender to get the deal done. They are now preparing a formal €30 million offer to sign the player.

Asencio was also linked with Aston Villa a year ago.

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Everton could use Raul Asencio

It has been an impressive season for Everton so far, and they will look to finish as high as possible. They are targeting European qualification next season and need to further improve the team. Asencio could be a quality addition for them.

The young defender needs regular gametime, and Real Madrid will not be able to provide him with that opportunity. A move to the Premier League could be ideal for him. Regular football in England could help him improve further and fulfil his tremendous potential.

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Asencio would help the Toffees improve

Everton are eighth in the Premier League table, and they will feel they could have done much better if they had been more organised at the back. They have let in 35 goals in 31 league matches. They need to tighten up at the back if they want to compete at a high level. Signing a quality defender in the summer should be an absolute priority for them.

West Ham United are fighting for survival in the Premier League. They might not be a very attractive destination for the Spanish defender. It will be interesting to see if they can secure safety in the top flight. They have been quite poor defensively as well, and it is no surprise that they are keen on the Real Madrid player.

The post Everton prepare €30M offer for Real Madrid talent as transfer battle heats up appeared first on CaughtOffside.