Kylian Mbappe is closing in on the numbers posted by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the UEFA Champions League.

Kylian Mbappe’s scoring run during the 2025-26 season with Real Madrid has put him in the conversation with the all-time greats Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The French forward scored this Wednesday against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League and now sits sixth on the all-time scoring list with 70 goals.

What stands out most about the French forward is how quickly he has climbed the rankings: Mbappe reached that mark at just 27 years and 116 days, surpassing the career totals of other legends such as Thomas Muller, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

That milestone puts Mbappe in direct competition with the two defining stars of this century, Messi and Ronaldo. They remain the top scorers in Champions League history, but Kylian is on track to seriously challenge their records.

At the same age Mbappe is now, neither Messi nor Ronaldo had reached 70 goals in the competition. At 27 years and 116 days, the Argentine forward had scored 68 Champions League goals, while the Portuguese star had just 38.

IT'S MBAPPE'S TURN! 😱

OH MY GOODNESS, WHAT A MATCH! #UCL pic.twitter.com/g0RYwP92aF

— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) April 15, 2026

In terms of efficiency, Lionel Messi holds the edge. By the time he reached 68 goals, the then-Barcelona player had done so in 88 matches, averaging 0.77 goals per game. Mbappe follows with an average of 0.71, with 70 goals in 98 matches. Cristiano Ronaldo, at that same age, had scored 38 goals in 80 matches, for an average of 0.47.

All-time Champions League top scorers:

1- Cristiano Ronaldo – 140 goals

2- Lionel Messi – 129 goals

3- Robert Lewandowski – 109 goals

4- Karim Benzema – 90 goals

5- Raul Gonzalez – 71 goals

6- Kylian Mbappe – 70 goals

7- Thomas Muller – 57 goals

8- Erling Haaland – 57 goals

9- Ruud van Nistelrooy – 57 goals

10- Harry Kane – 51 goals

Mbappe makes history in Europe

Despite Real Madrid’s elimination against Bayern Munich, Kylian Mbappe still has plenty of reasons to be satisfied with his performances. He is, and very likely will remain, the top scorer in this edition of the UEFA Champions League with 15 goals in 11 matches.

Only three players had previously reached that total in a single edition of the tournament. Cristiano Ronaldo holds the all-time record, having done it three times, including the single-season mark of 17 goals. Robert Lewandowski and Karim Benzema have each reached 15 once.

However, this Wednesday the French forward achieved something that not even Ronaldo or Messi managed during their peak years in Europe. Mbappe became the only player in Champions League history to score 10 away goals in a single season — and he did it without even reaching the semifinals of the tournament, underlining his remarkable performance this campaign.

LA Galaxy will host Toluca in the second leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. Here’s everything you need to know about the date, venue, kickoff time, and viewing options for fans in the United States.

Match Overview

With a semifinal spot on the line, LA Galaxy return home needing a statement performance after falling 4-2 in the first leg against Toluca in the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. The California side will count on their home-field advantage and attacking firepower to erase the deficit.

Meanwhile, Toluca enter the decisive clash riding the confidence of a high-scoring win but aware that one slip could undo their advantage in a matchup that already produced six goals in their opening chapter—don’t miss what promises to be another high-stakes, action-packed showdown.

Inter will be without both Yann Bisseck and Lautaro Martinez for Friday evening’s Serie A clash with Cagliari at San Siro, with neither player having recovered sufficiently from their respective injuries to be available for selection.

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Bisseck has not yet returned to full group training following the muscle strain that has kept him out since the international break.

According to Sky Sport, via FCInter1908, the German defender is targeting a return somewhere between the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg against Como on Wednesday and the following weekend’s league fixture against Torino on Sunday.

Inter captain Lautaro expected back for Torino clash

Lautaro, meanwhile, is not even attempting to rush back for the Cagliari game, with the captain setting his sights directly on the Torino match on Sunday 26 April as his target return date.

The Argentine has been sidelined already this year after suffering a soleus muscle injury during the Champions League playoff against Bodo/Glimt in February and this latest setback means the Argentine will have missed a majority of the club’s 2026 fixtures.

With six league games remaining and a nine-point lead at the top of the table, Cristian Chivu has enough of a cushion to manage both players back to fitness carefully, though the sooner Lautaro is available, the better placed the Nerazzurri will be to see out what remains a significant if manageable lead.

Oliver Glasner has revealed he would be open to managing in Serie A in the future, while insisting Crystal Palace will approach Thursday’s Conference League quarter-final second leg at the Stadio Franchi with exactly the same attacking mindset that earned them a 3-0 victory in the first leg.

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The Austrian coach, speaking at his pre-match press conference in Florence, was asked about the perceived gap between the Premier League and Serie A following a week in which both Palace and Aston Villa dominated their Italian opponents in European competition. His response was measured and respectful.

“I watched both our match and the Bologna-Aston Villa game, Bologna missed several chances,” he said, via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“I don’t think there is much difference between the two leagues. The way teams play is different, but I would not say anything beyond that.”

Crystal Palace boss Glasner ‘open’ to Serie A switch

On the prospect of one day working in Italy, Glasner was equally open. “I follow Serie A closely and I am open to considering the idea of coming to Italy, certainly,” he said. “But what matters to me is the ambition of the club I go to work for. Right now I am not thinking about my future.”

Despite holding a commanding three-goal advantage, Glasner made clear his side will not be parking the bus at the Franchi.

“Nobody here has that mentality,” he said. “Since I arrived in London, our idea has always been to demonstrate our value against any opponent, home or away. Tomorrow our approach will be the same, we will not be defending.”

He also confirmed that the number of players on yellow card warnings will not influence his team selection for the first minute.

The only confirmed absentee is Guessand, who will miss the next two weeks, though Glasner pointed to Palace’s ability to cope without him, citing the Newcastle result as evidence.

Jean-Philippe Mateta returns having recovered from injury, though Glasner acknowledged he is not yet at full fitness. “I hope he can play a good World Cup with France,” the coach added, hinting that the striker’s future at the club beyond this season is uncertain.

Glasner also expressed admiration for what he expects from the Franchi atmosphere, while noting the frustration of seeing part of the stadium closed during the Lazio match. “I am certain the fans will create a great atmosphere,” he said. “And I expect much more aggression from Fiorentina tomorrow.”

Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada has sent a warm message to Lazio’s supporters ahead of Thursday’s Conference League quarter-final second leg against Fiorentina at the Stadio Franchi, while admitting he remains puzzled by the circumstances that led to his departure from the Roman club.

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The Japanese international was one of the standout performers in Crystal Palace’s 3-0 first-leg victory, and arrives in Florence as one of Oliver Glasner’s most influential figures, a far cry from the uncertainty that surrounded his exit from Lazio, where he had spent a single season before his contract situation was left unresolved.

“At Lazio I had a wonderful year,” Kamada told reporters at his pre-match press conference, via FirenzeViola.

“I also had some difficult moments, but it seemed like everything was in place for me to stay. Then, I repeat, I don’t know what happened between my agent and Lotito. But I send my regards to all the Biancocelesti supporters.”

The diplomatic but pointed comment is unlikely to go unnoticed in Rome, where Claudio Lotito’s handling of player contracts has been a recurring source of controversy.

Crystal Palace man Kamada reflects on continental experience ahead of Fiorentina clash

On the match itself, Kamada was measured about his own experience in European football while acknowledging the difficulty of predicting outcomes.

“I have played many European matches in the past and I have experience, but I don’t know how much that counts tomorrow,” he said. He pointed to the defensive solidity and counter-attacking efficiency that has defined Palace’s run in the competition as the key to their continued progress.

“Myself and Glasner have won trophies in the past, we try to replicate what we have done, defend well and hit on the break. That is why we have done well.”

On his own future, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Kamada was deliberately vague. “I want to focus on the present and enjoy the moment,” he said.

Jonathan Rowe has insisted Bologna were unfortunate in the first leg defeat and is backing his side to make the most of a second chance at Villa Park on Thursday evening, despite the daunting two-goal deficit they must overturn.

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The English winger, speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the Europa League quarter-final second leg, was candid about the injustice he felt in the first leg at the Dall’Ara.

“We were unlucky in the first game, we deserved to go in at half-time two goals ahead,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb. “But that is football. We were punished and now we have to make the most of this second chance.”

Aston Villa vs Bologna – Rowe: ‘We will give our all’

Rowe acknowledged that nothing short of their best performance of the season will be enough to turn the tie around against a Villa side that has been one of the most consistent teams in the competition.

When asked which Aston Villa player he would most like to remove from the equation, the Bologna forward was diplomatically evasive.

“I know several of them,” he said with a smile. “But I don’t know who will start, so I can’t choose. They are a strong team regardless of who plays. We will give everything, but so will they. Let’s see what happens.”

It is an enormous ask for Italiano’s side, but Rowe’s words suggest a group that has not given up on the possibility of one of European football’s great comebacks.

Arsenal secured their place in the Champions League semi-finals for the second consecutive year following a tense, albeit uninspiring, 0-0 draw against Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Gunners progressed 1-0 on aggregate thanks to Kai Havertz’s late heroics in the first leg, but the performance in North London left many critics questioning the team’s momentum.

Despite the lack of attacking spark, Mikel Arteta’s men successfully navigated a cagey encounter to set up a mouth-watering semi-final clash against Atlético Madrid.

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Declan Rice: “Who cares what people think”

Speaking to TNT Sports immediately after the final whistle, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was in no mood to apologise for the pragmatic nature of the victory.

Responding to suggestions that the performance was “frustrating” for the home support, Rice fired back at the mounting criticism following the club’s recent dip in form.

He said:

“I’m delighted. I’m so, so happy. We now want to go one step forward than last season and get to the final. Frustrating? No… we’ve just got to another semi-final. Who cares what people think.”

Rice emphasised that in the knockout stages of elite European competition, the result is the only statistic that matters.

“The tension is there because the stakes are so high. We were disciplined, we kept a clean sheet, and we are in the last four. That’s the reality.”

“Bring on these last couple of weeks!” ?

Declan Rice reacts after Arsenal reach back-to-back Champions League semi-finals!@julesbreach

Stream with TNT Sports on HBO Max pic.twitter.com/ktz4f6Sc5b

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 15, 2026

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Apr 15 2026, 22:32

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Massive game vs Manchester City next

While the European celebrations will be short-lived, the focus now shifts back to a domestic campaign that has hit a turbulent patch.

Arsenal head into a “make-or-break” weekend as they travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday to face Manchester City in a Premier League title decider.

Having recently suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth and been dumped out of both the FA Cup and League Cup, Arsenal’s season is at a critical crossroads.

With injuries mounting, including a fresh concern for Noni Madueke, Arteta must find a way to reignite his side’s attacking rhythm if they are to overcome Pep Guardiola’s defending champions.

 

The post “Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting appeared first on CaughtOffside.

BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton has suggested that Arsenal star William Saliba is no longer performing at the world-class level that saw him dubbed the rock of Mikel Arteta’s backline.

The comments were made during a tense Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sporting CP.

Sutton argued that the individual aura and reliability of the 25-year-old Frenchman have begun to flicker during a high-stakes period of the 2025/26 campaign.

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Chris Sutton says William Saliba not the same player anymore

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Sutton expressed concern over Saliba’s recent form, noting a dip in the authoritative presence that previously defined him since return from injury.

“William Saliba, since he got into the team, he has been a rock at the back, but he does not look the player he once was,” Sutton said.

“In the final third, Arsenal were massively disappointing, but defensively, there’s a lack of that ‘clockwork’ precision we’ve seen. On the odd occasion, Noni Madueke has not been confident enough to go around Maxi Araújo, but it’s more to do with their combination play from the back. It should be seamless, and right now, it isn’t.”

Sutton’s critique highlights a growing sense of frustration as Arsenal navigate a make-or-break week.

Saliba and Gabriel: One of the best defensive pairs?

For the past two seasons, the partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have been statistically recognised as the most formidable duo in the country.

However, recent lapses, including the defensive miscommunication that led to Bournemouth’s winner, have raised questions about whether fatigue is setting in.

Despite Sutton’s harsh assessment, Saliba remains a vital component of an Arsenal side chasing a historic double.

With captain Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka sidelined through injury, the responsibility on Saliba to anchor the team has never been greater.

 

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Marco Palestra has been linked with a move away from Italy at the end of the season, and Arsenal are interested in him.

The 21-year-old right back is currently on loan at Cagliari, and he will return to Atalanta at the end of the season. Arsenal have been monitoring his progress and are keen to secure his signature. They could offer over €40 million to sign the player.

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Arsenal and Man City eye Marco Palestra

However, a report from Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Manchester City are also interested in the defender. Arsenal could use an upgrade on Ben White, and the Italian would be an excellent addition. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and he has shown his quality in Italy this season. He has technical attributes for English football as well. Arsenal could nurture him into a future star.

Palestra has also been linked with Tottenham and Liverpool.

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More Stories / Latest News

“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

Gunners are also keen on Andrea Cambiaso

Meanwhile, Arsenal are also keeping tabs on the Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso. Myles Lewis-Skelly has been linked with a move away from Arsenal due to the lack of playing time. They will need to replace him if he moves on.

Having a specialist left back would be ideal for them. Cambiaso has been a star for Juventus. However, he will need guaranteed gametime, and he might not want to join Arsenal as a squad player. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal is prepared to provide him with a clear and defined role in the starting lineup. There is no doubt that he is good enough for the Premier League, and he could help Arsenal improve at both ends of the pitch.

Cambiaso has also been linked with Liverpool.

Palestra and Cambiaso could add a new dimension to the Arsenal team if they join the club. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

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Arsenal scraped into the Champions League semi-finals after Wednesday’s goalless home draw sent them through with a 1-0 aggregate win over Sporting CP. Kai Havertz’s late winner in last week’s first leg ultimately proved decisive as Arsenal teed up a last-four meeting with Atletico Madrid, but Mikel Arteta’s side were far from convincing at the […]

The post Arsenal 0-0 Sporting CP (1-0 agg): Arteta´s side edge into last four thanks to first-leg triumph appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Arsenal 0-0 Sporting CP (1-0 agg): Arteta´s side edge into last four thanks to first-leg triumph appeared first on Soccer News.

Liam Rosenior acknowledged “I need to win in this moment” as pressure continues to mount on the Chelsea boss ahead of Saturday’s visit from Manchester United. Chelsea have slipped down to sixth in the Premier League table heading into the weekend’s action, having lost their last three games in the competition. Rosenior is well aware […]

The post ‘I need to win’ – Rosenior desperate for Chelsea result against Man Utd appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ‘I need to win’ – Rosenior desperate for Chelsea result against Man Utd appeared first on Soccer News.

Harry Maguire will miss Manchester United’s huge Premier League clash with Chelsea, after being handed an additional one-match ban for his red card against Bournemouth. Maguire was sent off in the Red Devils’ 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on March 20 at the Vitality Stadium, also conceding a penalty for pulling back Evanilson. On what was […]

The post Maguire handed additional one-match ban for Bournemouth red card appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Maguire handed additional one-match ban for Bournemouth red card appeared first on Soccer News.

Arda Guler’s goal against Bayern Munich for Real Madrid is one of the fastest in UEFA Champions League history.

The second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid got off to a blistering start, as just 34 seconds in, Arda Guler capitalized on a mistake by Manuel Neuer to give the Spanish side the lead with a precise left-footed finish.

That strike allowed Guler to move into 13th place on the list of the fastest goals in Champions League history. The Turkish midfielder overtook Andreas Moller, who had held that spot since 1996 after scoring for Borussia Dortmund 36 seconds into a match against Juventus.

It is worth noting that this statistic only includes Champions League editions played since 1992, when UEFA adopted the current name — along with an expanded format — replacing the traditional European Cup.

Since then, the record for the fastest goal in the competition belongs to Roy Makaay, who scored after 10.12 seconds. Interestingly, that also came in a match between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, played in Germany in March 2007 during the Round of 16.

TERRIBLE MISTAKE FROM NEUER, BUT INCREDIBLE GOAL FROM GULER 😱#UCL pic.twitter.com/IQ2ZPoJrwr

— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) April 15, 2026

The podium is completed by Jonas, who scored after 10.96 seconds for Valencia against Bayer Leverkusen in 2011, and Gilberto Silva, who still holds third place thanks to his 20-second goal for Arsenal against PSV Eindhoven in 2002.

The fastest goals in Champions League history:

1- 10.12 seconds – Roy Makaay – Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid (2007)

2- 10.96 seconds – Jonas – Valencia vs Bayer Leverkusen (2011)

3- 20.07 seconds – Gilberto Silva – PSV Eindhoven vs Arsenal (2002)

4- 20.12 seconds – Alessandro Del Piero – Manchester United vs Juventus (1997)

5- 21.06 seconds – Clarence Seedorf – Schalke 04 vs AC Milan (2005)

6- 24 seconds – Alexandre Pato – AC Milan vs Barcelona (2011)

7- 25.02 seconds – David Alaba – Bayern Munich vs Juventus (2013)

8- 25.20 seconds – Marek Kincl – Rapid Vienna vs Club Brugge (2005)

9- 25.54 seconds – Dejan Stankovic – Inter Milan vs Schalke 04 (2013)

10- 27 seconds – Conor Gallagher – Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid (2025)

11- 28.21 seconds – Mariano Bombarda – Willem II vs Sparta Prague (1999)

12- 31 seconds – David Trezeguet – AS Monaco vs Manchester United (1998)

13- 34 seconds – Arda Guler – Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid (2026)

Guler also makes Real Madrid history

Arda Guler not only entered the Champions League record books, but also etched his name into Real Madrid history. The Turkish midfielder now owns the second-fastest goal in the club’s history in European competition.

According to sports statistics expert Mister Chip, only one Real Madrid player has scored faster in continental play: Rial, who has held the record since 1957 after scoring against Antwerp in 31 seconds. Guler now sits second with his 34-second goal, while the podium is completed by Felo, who scored against Juventus after 35 seconds in 1962.

Corinthians take on Independiente Santa Fe in Matchday 2 of the 2026 Copa Libertadores group stage. Fans in the United States can watch the matchup live—here’s all the key information on kickoff time and viewing options, including TV coverage and streaming details.

Match Overview

Corinthians opened group-stage play in strong fashion, delivering a 2-0 win over Platense to climb atop Group F as the only side to claim all three points on Matchday 1, and now Timao turn their focus to building momentum with another result despite a tougher challenge ahead.

Independiente Santa Fe, meanwhile, settled for a home draw against Peñarol in their opener—a result that arguably favored the visitors—and arrives in Brazil under pressure, knowing there’s little margin for error as they push for a crucial road victory.

River Plate take on Carabobo on Matchday 2 of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana group stage. Fans in the United States can watch all the action live—here’s everything you need to know about kickoff time and how to watch or stream the matchup.

Match Overview

River Plate’s Copa Sudamericana campaign got off to a shaky start, falling short of expectations despite grinding out a 1-1 draw on the road against Blooming while playing nearly the entire match down to 10 men.

Given the mismatch on paper, the result raised concerns, and now the Argentine side turns its attention to a critical bounce-back opportunity against Carabobo. The Venezuelan club arrives with momentum after a 1-0 win over Bragantino in its opener and will aim to build on that result with a strong showing at the Monumental.

Vincenzo Italiano arrived at his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg at Villa Park with his trademark wit intact, joking that he had asked the club to fly in Tom Cruise to help with what he described as a near-impossible mission, while also outlining a clear and serious tactical plan to give Bologna a genuine chance of completing one of European football’s more remarkable comebacks.

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The Rossoblù head into the tie trailing 3-1 from the first leg, and Italiano was under no illusions about the scale of the task.

“I’ll drop the percentages this time,” he said, with quotes via TMW, referencing his pre-match 50-50 prediction ahead of the first leg. “This is a mission that is almost impossible. I had asked the club to bring in Tom Cruise, he could give us a hand.”

The laughter subsided quickly, however, as Italiano returned to the serious business of how Bologna might make life uncomfortable for an Aston Villa side that will be looking to manage the game on home soil.

“We ruined the first leg with some lapses of concentration within what was otherwise a very high-level performance,” he said.

“Tomorrow we must make life difficult for them, not let them have a quiet evening. It would be important not to concede. And then we have to try to hurt them: they do give something away, as we saw in both previous matches here.”

Aston Villa vs Bologna – Italiano: ‘Ravaglia will play’

On Unai Emery’s attacking philosophy, Italiano was playful. “Emery’s mantra is attack, attack, attack. Mine, by contrast, is defence, defence, defence,” he said with a smile.

He was more measured on what he genuinely expects from Villa. “I would be surprised if they came at us aggressively given their two-goal lead. But I don’t know how they will approach it, what I do know is that the atmosphere pushes them and raises their level. We must find a way to respond.”

Italiano confirmed that Federico Ravaglia returns in goal, “from the start.”

With Lucumí also absent, he has Casale, Heggem and Vitik available in central defence, though he was deliberately cagey about his selection. “One of the three will be on the bench,” was all he would say.

His message to the squad was straightforward. “I told them to remember the matches we have played here before. We need to dig deep for a truly top-level performance and make our opponents work extremely hard. These games always throw up surprises, and that is our only hope.”

Paolo Vanoli has called on his Fiorentina players to cast aside inhibition and play with complete freedom when Crystal Palace visit the Stadio Franchi on Thursday evening, with the Viola requiring a 3-0 victory to overturn their first-leg deficit and reach the Conference League semi-finals.

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It is a tall order by any measure, and Vanoli was not about to pretend otherwise. But the Fiorentina coach, who has overseen one of Serie A’s more remarkable survival stories this season, knows better than most that the impossible can sometimes be achieved when a group of players stops thinking and starts believing.

“We will play with a free head, knowing that we will need something special,” he said, with quotes via AldredoPedulla.com.

“Sometimes what matters is not so much technical quality but desire, doing something that goes beyond what is expected, with courage and freedom. We have to risk, try and dream.”

Vanoli was equally honest about the context of this European run. With four points from their opening 11 league matches this season, survival was the only objective that mattered.

“When we had four points we were talking primarily about the league, that was the priority,” he said. “Then the story says the Conference must be an objective for this club.”

He also pointed to the broader lesson his side can take from facing a Premier League opponent of Palace’s quality. “The strong teams make you grow. When you don’t win, you learn.”

Fiorentina coach Vanoli: ‘I don’t want my future decided by one game’

On his own future, Vanoli was characteristically direct. He expressed genuine ambition to continue but refused to let Thursday’s result define his tenure one way or the other.

“I don’t want my future to be conditioned by one Conference League match,” he said. “I’m not a genius if we go through and I’m not a mediocre coach if we go out. I keep believing, despite the difficulties.”

He also delivered a pointed observation about Italian football’s relationship with courage, fitting given the national conversation currently raging about the men’s team. “In Italy, people say they want courage but then criticise it when they see it.”

On team news, Dodô will miss the match through suspension, while Pongracic is being assessed after carrying a hamstring overload. Rugani, who impressed against Lazio, is available, and Vanoli confirmed Kean is being monitored day by day as the club works to have him fit.

Vincenzo Italiano’s future at Bologna is attracting significant attention from elsewhere in Italian football, with transfer insider Fabrizio Romano warning that several major clubs have the coach firmly on their radar despite his contract running until 2027.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Aston Villa at Villa Park, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Romano was careful to frame the situation in context. Italiano has publicly committed to Bologna and renewed his deal as recently as May 2025, earning just over €3 million per season.

On paper, there is no immediate reason to question his future in Emilia. However, Romano’s caveat was pointed. “Italiano at Bologna, yes, but with an asterisk,” he said. “He is very well regarded by several important Italian clubs.”

Big Serie A role beckons for Bologna coach Italiano

The key phrase Romano used was “domino effect on managerial positions,” a reference to the considerable upheaval currently rippling through Serie A benches, with multiple top clubs facing uncertainty over their coaching situations heading into the summer. Should that instability create unexpected vacancies, Italiano’s name is among the first that would be considered.

Since taking charge at Bologna in the summer of 2024, the coach has recorded 45 wins, 27 draws and 28 defeats, with his side scoring 144 goals and conceding 119 at an average of 1.62 points per game.

The Europa League quarter-final run alone represents a significant achievement for a club of Bologna’s resources, and it is precisely that kind of overperformance that makes Italiano so appealing to clubs with greater ambitions and deeper pockets.

Jacobo Ramon has been linked with a move away from Como at the end of the season, and the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool are keen on him.

The player has also been linked with a return to Real Madrid. However, a report from TEAMtalk claims that Real Madrid will wait until 2027 to secure his signature. They want him to return to the club, but they are unwilling to sign him at the end of this season. Their decision has put the Premier League clubs on alert.

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Is Jacobo Ramon moving to England?

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool decide to make a move for the 21-year-old central defender in the summer. They need more quality in the defensive unit, and Ramon could prove to be an excellent long-term investment. Chelsea and Liverpool, in particular, have been quite poor at the back. They need to bring in upgrades on players like Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile and Joe Gomez.

Ramon has proved himself in Italy, and he has the quality to thrive in England as well. He could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for Chelsea or Liverpool. The opportunity to play for some of the biggest clubs in England will be hard for him to turn down. Regular football at Chelsea or Liverpool could bring out the best in him and help him fulfil his potential.

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“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

Real Madrid return could tempt Ramon

It will be interesting to see if the 21-year-old is prepared to turn down the opportunity to move to England and wait for Real Madrid until 2027.

Meanwhile, the links with Arsenal are quite surprising. They have the best defensive unit in the country, and they will not be able to accommodate the Spaniard in the starting lineup. It would make no sense for the defender to join them and sit on the bench at the London club.

The post Liverpool & Chelsea alerted as 21-year-old Spaniard faces career crossroads appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Real Madrid star Arda Guler has just scored an outrageous freekick to restore the lead for the visitors at the Allianz Arena.

Having already scored one from long range inside one minute following a howler from Manuel Neuer, the young Turk was at it again, this time curling an-inch perfect free-kick straight into the top left corner.

The goal was as good as it gets, with Neuer trying his best to get to it but it was so well placed that he could only get his finger tips to it as it curled straight into the top right corner.

Watch the free-kick below:

 

More Stories / Latest News

“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

 

The post Watch: Take a bow!! Arda Guler scores outrageous freekick to restore Real Madrid’s lead against Bayern appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Morten Hjulmand has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months, and Manchester United are on him.

According to a football insider, Manchester United are leading the race for the 26-year-old Danish international midfielder, despite links with Manchester City. The report further claims that the player is pushing for a move to the Premier League.

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Man United lead Morten Hjulmand race

Manchester City were also linked to the player, but they do not view him as a priority target. They are more interested in signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.

Manchester United now have a clear run at the player, and he is keen on the move as well. It remains to be seen whether the Red Devils can get the deal done. They need more quality and depth in the middle of the park.

Casemiro has decided to leave the club in the summer, and they need to replace him. The 26-year-old will add physicality and defensive cover to the team. He is at the peak of his career, and he has shown his quality in Portugal with Sporting CP.

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More Stories / Latest News

“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

Can Man United land Hjulmand?

He has an €80 million release clause in his contract, but it is fair to assume he could be available for a more reasonable fee. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United follows up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done.

They need to improve in the middle of the park if they want to fight for major trophies next season. They are pushing for a top-three finish in the Premier League this season, and they will look to improve further next year.

Hjulmand will want to prove his quality at the highest level as well. The move to Manchester United would be ideal for him.

The post Man United leading race for €80m Man City-linked star as player pushes for move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Goncalo Inacio has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months.

The 24-year-old Portuguese defender has done quite well for club and country, and multiple clubs are monitoring his situation. According to Edu Burgos, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United are interested in signing the Sporting CP defender.

He has consistently shown his quality in Portuguese football, and the opportunity to move to England could be exciting. It could be the ideal next step in his career.

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Premier League clubs eyeing Goncalo Inacio

Burgos wrote on X: “Gonçalo Inácio awakens interest from the big clubs.

“His great season at Sporting, especially in the Champions League, has drawn attention in England (Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United) and Spain.

“His release clause amounts to 60M€, but it’s negotiable.”

Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile have been linked with moves away from Chelsea at the end of the season, and Chelsea will need to replace both players. Chelsea have looked vulnerable at the back of this season, and they need to improve in that area of the pitch. Signing the Portuguese International would be a wise decision.

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More Stories / Latest News

“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

Liverpool could use Inacio

Similarly, Liverpool need more defensive depth. Joe Gomez has suffered from persistent injury problems, and they need to upgrade on him. Ibrahima Konate will be a free agent at the end of the season and has not yet signed an extension with the club. Inacio could be a quality addition for them. The left-footed defender can operate as a central defender as well as a full back. His versatility would be an added bonus.

As for Manchester United, they need a long-term replacement for Harry Maguire. Matthijs de Ligt has had his fair share of injury problems this season as well. Adding more depth to the defensive unit would be ideal for them.

It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs is willing to pay the €60 million asking price for him.

The post Chelsea, Liverpool & Man United circle for €60m-rated versatile defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

A night of high-stakes Champions League drama at the Allianz Arena began with a moment of pure disbelief as Bayern Munich legend Manuel Neuer committed a catastrophic error to gift Real Madrid a lead inside the opening 35 seconds.

The veteran German, so often the gold standard, saw his legendary composure desert him in the most hostile of atmospheres.

Receiving a routine pass back, Neuer appeared to experience a momentary lapse in concentration.

Instead of clearing his lines, he played a casual, lateral pass directly across the edge of his own penalty area.

Incredible finish from Arda Güler

Real Madrid’s teenage sensation Arda Güler was the quickest to react, reading the situation with a maturity far beyond his 21 years.

The young Turk intercepted the stray pass, took one touch to set himself, and unleashed a curling strike from 25 yards.

The ball sailed over Neuer and into the empty net, giving Real Madrid the perfect start to the second-leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Steve McManaman was left stunned by the mistake from the German.

He said on TNT Sports (via BBC Sport): “The best goalkeeper in the world has come up with the most horrendous mistake in the first minute, but what a finish by the young Turk.

“It’s a simple pass back, what is he thinking? I’ve no idea what Neuer was looking at. He was superb last week, but that is an unbelievable error.”

Arda Güler scores from range just 45 seconds into the game after Neuer’s mistake ?

? Stream with TNT Sports on HBO Max pic.twitter.com/jx8lcHCtT0

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 15, 2026

Bayern equalise instantly

While Neuer’s howler threatened to derail Bayern’s European ambitions before the game had even settled, the Bavarian giants showed remarkable resilience.

Refusing to let the early setback define their evening, Vincent Kompany’s side pushed forward immediately and found a way back into the contest just five minutes later.

In the 6th minute, Bayern won a corner following a deflected strike from Harry Kane. Joshua Kimmich’s pinpoint delivery found Aleksandar Pavlović, who rose highest in a crowded box to thunder a header past Andriy Lunin.

Bayern make it 1-1 inside just six minutes, and regain their lead on aggregate ?

? Stream with TNT Sports on HBO Max pic.twitter.com/D9a2x7GYSA

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 15, 2026

The post Watch: Manuel Neuer produces a horrible howler as Arda Güler scores one from 25 yards out appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Lucas Bergvall has been outstanding for Tottenham since joining the club, and he has been linked with a move away from the London outfit in recent months. 

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Fabio Paratici could look to swoop for the Swedish International midfielder at the end of the season. The Italian helped Tottenham sign the player during his time, and he could look to bring the player to Fiorentina now.

Liverpool wanted to sign Bergvall a few weeks ago.

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Lucas Bergvall linked with an exit

Bergvall is highly rated at Tottenham, and it is extremely unlikely that they will let the player leave. He has all the attributes to develop into a future star. They must keep players like him at the club if they want to build a formidable team for the future.

Having said that, they are fighting for survival in the Premier League. If they go down to the championship, it will be difficult for them to keep their best players.

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More Stories / Latest News

“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

Paratici to move for Lucas Bergvall?

“To be honest, Roberto De Zerbi and Tottenham are currently only focused on staying in the Premier League,” Di Marzio said via Fotboll Direkt.

“They are not listening to offers, and they have not even decided which players they want to keep or sell. If I were to name a club that I think could potentially sign Lucas Bergvall if Tottenham were to let him leave, I think Fiorentina is an option.

“Their sports director Fabio Paratici likes young players, and especially Bergvall. So, they could try to sign him if his future does not lie in Tottenham. If he is on the market, Fiorentina will try.”

Bergvall could be tempted to join a big club if Tottenham go down, but the move to Fiorentina might not be as appealing. He will want to join a club where he can regularly compete for major trophies. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. Bergvall has also been linked with Chelsea.

The post Tottenham face nightmare scenario as Paratici “could try to sign” rising star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

After Barcelona’s elimination against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, Raphinha aimed strong criticism at the referee — and it could prove costly.

Barcelona’s exit against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League dealt a heavy blow to the Catalan side. And the fallout from that disappointment could extend into the future, with Raphinha now facing the possibility of a suspension after claiming that “the match was a robbery.”

According to Diario AS, UEFA is already reviewing those comments to determine whether the Brazilian winger deserves a sanction. If so, any punishment would only be served during his next appearance in European competition — most likely in the 2026-27 Champions League.

There are similar precedents that suggest an unfavorable outcome for Raphinha. During the 2018-19 season, UEFA sanctioned Neymar after he publicly criticized officiating following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League elimination against Manchester United.

“It’s a disgrace. They put four guys who don’t understand soccer to analyze a play,” Ney wrote at the time in a story on his official Instagram account. That led to a three-match suspension in European competitions for the Brazilian forward, which was later reduced to two by CAS.

🚨🏡 Raphinha to Atletico Madrid fans on DAZN cameras: “You’re going home [next round]”.@DAZNFutbol @DAZNFootball 🎥 pic.twitter.com/eaYRdTnVQT

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 14, 2026

Raphinha involved in another controversial incident

Despite not being able to play in the series against Atletico Madrid due to injury, Raphinha still drew attention for his actions after the match. In addition to his comments criticizing the officiating, the winger also made gestures toward opposing fans at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Several cameras captured the exact moment when Raphinha, on the pitch, gestured toward the crowd, signaling that Atletico Madrid would be eliminated in the next round of the Champions League. As in the previous case, there are precedents of players being sanctioned by UEFA for making gestures and directing offensive remarks at rival fans.

Raphinha apologizes to Atletico Madrid fans

Several hours after the final whistle — and likely with emotions having cooled — Raphinha reflected on his behavior at the Metropolitano Stadium and posted a message on his official Instagram account apologizing to Atletico Madrid fans.

“I apologize for my gesture, which does not reflect my values or my character. It was an act committed in a moment of tension, in response to a fan who was being disrespectful toward me,” the Barcelona star wrote.

Racing Club will face Botafogo on Matchday 2 of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana group stage. Fans in the United States can watch all the action live—here’s everything you need to know about kickoff time and how to watch or stream the matchup.

Match Overview

Racing Club opened their Copa Sudamericana campaign in impressive fashion, rolling to a convincing 3-1 win over Independiente Petrolero to immediately stake their claim as a group frontrunner, but the job is far from finished as La Academia look to build on that momentum and stay atop the standings.

Next up is a tougher test against Botafogo, a talented but inconsistent side that stumbled out of the gate with a 1-1 draw against Caracas and now enters this matchup under pressure to secure its first victory, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash between a red-hot Argentine squad and a Brazilian team still searching for rhythm.

Napoli have made their first move in the pursuit of Nicolò Zaniolo, with sporting director Giovanni Manna having opened exploratory talks with the Udinese midfielder’s entourage ahead of the summer transfer window.

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According to Kiss Kiss Napoli, via TuttoMercatoWeb, the approach represents a continuation of Manna’s long-standing admiration for the Italian, having previously targeted him during his time at Juventus.

Antonio Conte is also understood to be a fan of the player, though the extent of Napoli’s pursuit will depend heavily on whether the manager remains in charge next season, a question that has yet to be resolved following Aurelio De Laurentiis’ recent public comments from the United States.

Napoli keen on Zaniolo as Udinese man finds form

Zaniolo has rediscovered his best form this season, registering six goals and seven assists in 34 appearances for Udinese, a return that has underlined his quality when fit and in a settled environment.

The Italian international joined on loan from Galatasaray, and Udinese are understood to be ready to trigger their purchase option of approximately €9 million to make the deal permanent.

Manna is aware that other Italian clubs are also monitoring the situation, giving the contact an added urgency. Napoli are not prepared to be caught flat-footed in what promises to be a competitive summer window, and Zaniolo, available at a relatively modest cost given his current form, represents an attractive and attainable target.

Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori has not been included in Arsenal’s starting lineup or bench in Wednesday night’s UEFA Champions League quarter final match against Sporting.

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Arsenal won the first leg 1-0 in Portugal and are expected to come out on top at the Emirates Stadium.

Calafiori, however, will play no part in the match – indeed, after missing Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat against Bournemouth.

The Italian’s condition is not likely serious though, and the Italian may be available for the weekend’s huge match against Manchester City.

Arsenal vs Sporting – Official Lineups as Calafiori misses out

Arsenal: Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Rice, Zubimendi, Eze; Madueke, Gyokeres, Martinelli

Sporting: Rui Silva; Quaresma, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulman, Morita; Geny, Pedro Goncalves, Trincao; Suarez

Juventus are set to secure the long-term future of Manuel Locatelli, with an agreement in place to extend his contract until 2030.

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The Italy international’s current deal, which was due to expire in 2028, will be extended by a further two years, while also including a salary increase from €3m to €4m per season, according to CalcioMercato.

The official signing is expected to take place on April 17.

Locatelli renewal is huge boost for Juventus

Locatelli joined Juventus from Sassuolo in 2021 for €37.5m, having previously come through the ranks at AC Milan. Since arriving in Turin, he has made 224 appearances, contributing nine goals and 17 assists, and played a key role in the club’s Coppa Italia triumph in 2024.

At international level, he has earned 36 caps for the Italy national team, scoring three goals and being part of the squad that won Euro 2020.

Locatelli’s renewal is the latest in a series of key extensions for Juventus, following new deals for Kenan Yildiz, Weston McKennie and head coach Luciano Spalletti.

Attention will now turn to the future of Dusan Vlahovic, whose current contract is due to expire in 2026 and remains unresolved.

There’ll surely be huge demand for Manchester City vs Arsenal tickets as this weekend’s game at the Etihad Stadium looks like potentially deciding the Premier League title.

BUY MAN CITY VS. ARSENAL TICKETS

The Gunners have had a bit of a blip recently, while Man City have looked back to their best, and now they go head-to-head in this huge six-pointer.

If Arsenal win, then defeat in the last game against Bournemouth will quickly be forgotten, and they’ll be major favourites again, but a win for City will confirm what we appear to be seeing now, with Mikel Arteta‘s side perhaps bottling it again. A draw leaves us all guessing.

Years from now you’ll surely wish you’d been there, so read on for our Manchester City vs Arsenal tickets guide.

How to buy Manchester City tickets

Manchester City fans looking for tickets to this game will likely make the official site here their first port of call, but it’s not necessarily the best way to guarantee you’ll grab a seat.

We can also recommend following the link here for another dedicated ticket portal that is easy to navigate, reliable, and backed by a 150% money-back guarantee if, for whatever reason, you’re not satisfied.

How to buy Arsenal tickets

Arsenal’s official ticket page can be found here, but we would again recommend having a backup plan in place, as you’ll struggle to get ahead of season-ticket holders and club members for such an in-demand fixture.

You could also try following our link here for a better chance to make sure you get a seat in the Etihad Stadium away end, for what could end up being an unforgettable game that ends up taking a place alongside Anfield in 1989, Old Trafford in 2002, and White Hart Lane in 2004 in the club’s history books.

How Manchester City could line up vs Arsenal

City are in fine form at the moment, so will surely take the game to Arsenal with an attacking approach and as many of their stars on the pitch at once.

Pep Guardiola can’t fit everyone in, but he has plenty of good options that can cause the Gunners problems, as they did in the Carabao Cup final recently.

Expect something like the below…

Man City predicted line-up: Donnarumma; Nunes, O’Neill, Guehi, Khusanov; Rodri, Silva, Cherki, Semenyo, Doku; Haaland.

How Arsenal could line up vs Manchester City

Injuries continue to be a problem for Arsenal as they have been for so much of the season, with doubts over Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori going into this game.

That makes it hard to predict Arsenal’s starting XI, but based on recent reports it’s probably more likely that Saka and Timber will be back than the other two.

We’ll go with this line-up for now…

Arsenal predicted line-up: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Rice, Zubimendi, Eze; Saka, Trossard, Gyokeres.

Fine line between success and failure

Two wins, or even two draws for Arsenal this week will have them in the Champions League semi-finals and probably as title favourites. Two defeats and it’s likely they’re heading for another trophyless season.

These are the fine margins for Arteta now, whose own future as Arsenal manager will surely come into question if this project once again yields a second-place finish and failure to lift any of the other three trophies despite for so long this season looking like they might genuinely be in the running for a quadruple.

Quite simply, this is an absolutely massive game for Arsenal in their modern history – can their players rise to the occasion or will the pressure get to them again? Give us your predictions in the comments!

Leonardo Bonucci remains part of the Italy national team setup despite the recent overhaul at the Italian Football Federation, as he continues to build towards a future in coaching.

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The former Juventus defender is currently working as part of the federation’s technical structure, focusing on scouting and analysing players while completing the required steps to obtain his UEFA Pro licence, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport.

His role is independent of the previous coaching staff and remains valid until June 2026, meaning he has stayed on despite the departures of Gennaro Gattuso, Gabriele Gravina and Gianluigi Buffon.

Bonucci stays on pathway to Serie A coaching

Bonucci began his post-playing path in 2024 as an assistant to Bernardo Corradi with the Italy Under-20 side, before later being integrated into the senior national team environment. His current duties involve monitoring both established and emerging Italian players, compiling detailed reports as part of his coaching education.

This work is essential for completing the hours required to sit the final exams at Coverciano, which would allow him to coach in Serie A. He has already earned his UEFA A licence and is regularly attending matches across Italy and Europe to continue his development.

Bonucci’s contract is set to expire in June, when he will decide together with the federation whether to continue. For now, his focus remains on gaining experience and preparing for a future on the touchline, with several coaches, including Antonio Conte, having already shown interest in bringing him into their staff.

Cesc Fabregas confirms Como are targeting more Real Madrid talents after Nico Paz and Jacobo Ramon and hopes to remain at the Stadio Sinigaglia long term: ‘I’m in love with everything I’m doing here.’

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Como visit Sassuolo in a crucial Serie A match on Friday, as the Azzurri are just two points below a Champions League spot despite last Sunday’s 4-3 loss to Inter.

Como have mostly used a 4-2-3-1 system this term, but Fabregas has also made some tactical twists along the way.

“I don’t like to talk about a structure. There’s always an evolution, and it’s always very hard. We analyse all the time,” he said at a press conference via TMW.

“If you look at PSG, Liverpool, and Barcelona, they are all very dynamic.”

Argentine talent Nico Paz scored a goal and provided one assist in Sunday’s loss to Inter after managing just one goal in the previous four league fixtures.

“I congratulated Nico Paz; we have revived him. He’s the player we used to see,” Fabregas said.

Como remain the least-beaten defence in Serie A despite their recent heavy defeat to Inter.

“Our defence was not in confusion. We recovered possession many times with high pressing,” insisted Fabregas.

“Our defence was incredible, with top-notch pressing. It’s true that we didn’t do well on set pieces, but that had to do with the pressure at that moment, too.

“It’s been a constant growth, thanks to the players, a great staff and the intensity we put in every day. We push hard, we know we are ranked higher than we would have thought, but it all depends on the players and what they learn day by day,” he added.

“We continue to push, hoping to finish as high as possible. When you see the players’ determination, the result goes in the background. There will be moments when only the result is missing, but now we are building an idea.”

Speaking about the defensive attitude he wants to see from his players, Fabregas mentioned Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday: “Yesterday, Eric García consistently anticipated the play and maintained the right positioning, even though he isn’t the most physical or the fastest. It’s exactly what we want.”

Fabregas was asked whether Lucas Da Cunha embodies his playing style, and the coach replied that the Frenchman has completed “96% of the training sessions” at Como over the last two seasons.

“Kolo Touré was somebody who didn’t miss any training sessions. It’s the typical player a scouting team must identify,” added Fabregas.

Fabregas confirmed that his assistant coach has travelled to Madrid twice in recent weeks to watch some Real Madrid Castilla players in action.

Nico Paz and Ramon have joined the Azzurri from the Merengues over the last two years, and Como fans should probably expect more reinforcements from the Spanish capital going forward.

“Yes, we are always on the move. It’s too important to watch players live,” Fabregas said.

“We are looking for players to improve. We know what Nico and Ramon have achieved here.”

Fabregas, a former Chelsea, Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder, reiterated that he’s not considering leaving Como at the end of the season, not even of the Italy national team job.

“It’s hard, right now, this is what I feel. I’m in love with everything I’m doing here,” he said.

“This won’t change. My life is about preparing for the Sassuolo game. I experienced it as a player. Today it all goes well, but lose two games and people would not want you anymore. People are accustomed to having a high bar, and I’m the first one who wants it.”

One final question was whether he’d like to replicate Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal career at Como, spending several years at the club and reshaping their identity: “I’d love it,” he concluded.

Arsenal are keeping tabs on the highly talented Fredrikstad FK midfielder Eirik Granaas.

According to a report from TV2, Arsenal are interested in the 16-year-old midfielder, and it remains to be seen whether they decide to make a move for him in the summer. He could prove to be a quality long-term investment for the club.

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Eirik Granaas on the radar of top clubs

The 16-year-old is highly rated across Europe, and multiple clubs are scouting him. Along with Arsenal, RB Leipzig are keeping tabs on the talented young midfielder as well.

The opportunity to join a big club in the summer will be exciting for Granaas, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. He has a contract with the Norwegian club until December 20 27, and he could be available for a reasonable fee in the summer. That said, TV2 claims the Norwegian outfit will hold out for a club-record fee for the youngster. They sold Fallou Fall for just under 40 million kroner last year, and they will demand more than that for Granaas. 

Arsenal have the financial muscle to get across the line, and they will be an attractive destination for the young playmaker as well. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they have an outstanding track record of grooming young players. They could help Granaas fulfil his tremendous potential.

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

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More Stories / Latest News

“Who cares what people think” – Arsenal star Declan Rice fires back at critics after 0-0 draw vs Sporting

Apr 15 2026, 22:32

Chris Sutton singles out Arsenal star with brutal ‘not the same player’ verdict

Apr 15 2026, 21:36

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

Apr 15 2026, 21:35

What next for Granaas?

The 16-year-old has already broken through to the first team seen at the Norwegian club, and it remains to be seen whether he is prepared to live in the summer. He needs regular high-level opportunities to continue his development. At Arsenal, he is unlikely to get opportunities in the Premier League right away.

Granaas should focus on his development for now. He will have plenty of opportunities to play for elite clubs if he fulfils his potential in future.

Report: Arsenal plot double raid on Serie A clubs to improve in the wide areas

The post Arsenal ready to challenge Europe’s elite in record-breaking move for midfield prodigy appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Jose Mourinho has emerged as a “genuine contender” for a sensational return to the Premier League, with the Portuguese icon reportedly identified as the leading candidate to replace Eddie Howe at Newcastle United.

According to the latest from talkSPORT, the Newcastle hierarchy are seriously considering a change in leadership following a string of poor results that has seen the Magpies slump to 14th in the table.

The club’s Saudi owners are believed to be increasingly attracted to the idea of a “big-name” appointment to spearhead the next phase of their project at St James’ Park.

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The report suggests that Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, has significant admirers within the Newcastle boardroom.

While Eddie Howe has credit in the bank after delivering the League Cup last season, recent defeats, including a 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace where Newcastle surrendered a first-half lead, have put his position under immense scrutiny.

As per talkSPORT, if Howe leaves this summer, Mourinho is the main target, though he is also expected to be a top candidate for the Portugal national team after the World Cup should Roberto Martinez step down.

Jose Mourinho’s Premier League record

A move to Tyneside would mark Mourinho’s fifth stint in English football, having previously managed Chelsea (twice), Manchester United, and Tottenham.

His track record in the Premier League remains one of the most decorated in history:

• Premier League Titles: 3 (2004/05, 2005/06, 2014/15)
• Total PL Wins: 217
• Win Percentage: ~60%
• Major English Trophies: 3 Premier Leagues, 1 FA Cup, 4 League Cups

While his pragmatic style may not go down well with the Newcastle faithful, his history of delivering immediate silverware is precisely what the PIF-backed ownership desires.

Mourinho has previously teased a return to London, which he considers home, but the temptation of the “elite support and financial backing” at Newcastle may prove impossible to resist.

The post Jose Mourinho has emerged as ‘genuine contender’ to become manager of surprise Premier League club – report appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly keeping tabs on Santiago Castro, and they will scout the player in action when Bologna takes on Aston Villa on Thursday night.

The two teams will be in action in the Europa League, and Castro will look to make his mark on the game, as per Il Resto del Carlino.

The player has 11 goals and four assists in all competitions this season, and he has impressed Manchester United and Chelsea with his performances. The 21-year-old is a talented young striker with a bright future, and he could prove to be a quality long-term investment for both clubs.

Manchester United and Chelsea have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official offer at the end of the season. Manchester United will need to replace Joshua Zirkzee in the summer. The Netherlands international is not a key player for them, and his performance in the Premier League has been mediocre. He will also want to move on in search of regular playing time.

Castro could compete with Benjamin Sesko for the starting spot at Manchester United next season. The competition for places could bring out the best in both players.

Meanwhile, Chelsea need more depth in the attacking unit as well. They have been overly dependent on Joao Pedro. Liam Delap has found the back of the net just once in all competitions. They need to replace him in the summer.

Castro has the technical attributes to do well in the Premier League, and he could be a superb option for Chelsea in the attack.

It will be interesting to see if Bolona is prepared to sanction his departure in the summer. They have a reputation for selling talented players for the right price, and they have sanctioned exits of Riccardo Calafiori, Joshua Zirkzee and Dan Ndoye in recent windows.

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Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike picked up a serious Achilles tendon injury against PSG in the UEFA Champions League last night.

The French International could be sidelined for 9 to 12 months. They are now looking to bring in two quality attackers at the end of the season. According to a report from TEAMtalk, they are interested in signing the Newcastle United attacker Anthony Gordon.

The former Everton star has done quite well for Newcastle this season, and he could be a superb acquisition for Liverpool. He is a dynamic attacker who can operate on the flanks as well as a Centre forward. He will add goals and creativity to the team. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact at Liverpool. In addition, he is a lifelong Liverpool fan, which could give Liverpool an edge in the transfer race.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle is prepared to sanction his departure. They are struggling in the attack right now, and selling their best attacking player would be a huge blow.

Gordon has 22 goal contributions for Newcastle this season.

On the other hand, Liverpool are admirers of Iliman Ndiaye as well. The Senegal International has been outstanding for Everton, and it remains to be seen whether the Toffees are willing to sell him to their bitter rivals. Ndiaye has 9 goal contributions in the league.

The report further claims that Jarrod Bowen, Harry Wilson and Bazoumana Toure are on Liverpool’s radar as well. They will need to replace Mohamed Salah at the end of the season, and signing quality wingers should be a priority for them. They have not been able to replace Luis Diaz yet, who left the club at the start of the season. Investing in two quality wide players would be ideal.

Gordon and Ndiaye are indispensable assets for their respective clubs, and they are likely to cost a lot of money.

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Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces a defensive crisis ahead of Saturday’s clash against Chelsea, with both Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martínez confirmed to miss the trip to Stamford Bridge.

The news would come as a significant blow to United’s pursuit of a top-four finish, as Carrick will be forced to field a makeshift backline against a Chelsea side currently sitting just seven points behind them in the table.

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Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez out of Chelsea clash

The FA confirmed on Wednesday, that it has upheld a misconduct charge against Harry Maguire, resulting in an additional one-match suspension and a £30,000 fine.

The 33-year-old was penalised for his aggressive reaction toward fourth official Matt Donohue following a red card in United’s recent 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.

Although Maguire had already served a suspension for the initial dismissal, the FA ruled that his “improper manner and abusive words” warranted further punishment.

Adding to Carrick’s woes, Lisandro Martínez will also be absent. The Argentine defender is starting a three-match ban for violent conduct after he was caught pulling the hair of Leeds United’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin during Monday’s 2-1 defeat.

With Matthijs de Ligt still sidelined through injury, United are expected to rely on 20-year-old Leny Yoro and teenage prospect Ayden Heaven to anchor the defense against the Blues.

??? Harry Maguire set to be banned for +1 game as “FA uphold charge of misconduct”, reports @lauriewhitwell.

Man United could be without Maguire and Lisandro Martínez against Chelsea. ?? pic.twitter.com/sQVZhqc9vy

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 15, 2026

Harry Maguire’s importance to the Carrick era

The timing of the suspension is particularly frustrating given Maguire’s recent “renaissance” at the club.

Just last week, Maguire signed a new contract extending his stay at Old Trafford until June 2027.

Since Carrick took over in January, Maguire has been an ever-present, starting every league game until his recent disciplinary issues.

His leadership has been a fundamental part of United’s climb to third in the standings, and his absence leaves a vocal void in a backline.

 

The post Massive blow for Carrick: Man United to be without two key players for match against Chelsea appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Igor Paixao has been linked with a move away from Marseille, and Liverpool are interested in securing his signature.

The 25-year-old has impressed with his explosive pace and dribbling ability at the French club. Liverpool is looking to add more cutting-edge in the final third, and they believe the 25-year-old Brazilian could be an excellent addition for them.

Paixao joined Marseille for a fee of €30 million, and the French outfit could look to double their investment in the player, as per SportsBoom. He has 19 goal contributions this season.

Along with Liverpool, Arsenal are also keeping tabs on his situation. Both teams need more quality in the final third. The Brazilian will add unpredictability and technical ability to the team. The opportunity to play for Arsenal or Liverpool will be hard to turn down. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they could provide him with the platform to fight for major trophies. It remains to be seen whether they are prepared to pay the asking price for him. €60 million is a lot of money, and they will hope to sign the player for a more reasonable fee.

The report claims that Arsenal are preparing an offer of €35 million plus bonuses for the Brazilian attacker. It remains to be seen whether they can beat Liverpool to his signature.

Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze have not been able to live up to expectations since joining the club, and Arsenal need someone who can take on defenders, beat them in 1v1 situations, and create opportunities.

Liverpool will need to replace Mohamed Salah, who has announced he will leave the club in the summer. It remains to be seen where the Brazilian ends up.

The post Arsenal prepare cut-price offer as Liverpool join hunt for €60m dribbling sensation appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bayern Munich and Real Madrid faced off in a hard-fought match in the 2025-26 Champions League quarterfinals. While the German side dominated, Real Madrid shone with their efficiency. However, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise led the way to victory with two brilliant goals.

Throughout the match, Bayern Munich established as the more dominant side, enjoying long spells of possession and excelling with their high press. However, Real Madrid managed to compete by sitting deep defensively and breaking on the counterattack, proving quite efficient. While this kept the game closely contested, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise ultimately decided the Champions League victory with two stunning goals in the closing minutes.

Los Blancos started the match in top form, as just 36 seconds in, Arda Güler scored a long-range goal following a mistake by Manuel Neuer in the build-up. However, they chose not to seek control through possession, instead sitting back defensively and hitting on the counterattack. Because of this, they were able to dictate the rhythm of the game, with the Turkish midfielder completing a brilliant brace, including a stunning free-kick goal.

Arda Güler beautifully curls home the freekick 🇹🇷

Astonishing game between Bayern and Real Madrid 🤯 pic.twitter.com/wF7OgHrrYj

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 15, 2026

While the German side controlled possession, Real Madrid looked more dangerous. Aleksandar Pavlović and Harry Kane scored the two goals that brought the game level, showcasing their quality. However, Kylian Mbappé restored the lead in the 45th minute, finishing off a great cross from Vinícius Jr. with two touches to beat Manuel Neuer and send his team into halftime in front.

A HEAVYWEIGHT #UCL CLASSIC IN MUNICH 🤯

Bayern Munich and Real Madrid trade goals to level this tie on aggregate 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/fnbX9kEzQo

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 15, 2026

Far from easing their attacking pressure in the second half, Bayern Munich continued to dominate the game, constantly pushing to score and secure the win. In response, Los Blancos relied on a solid low block that cut out any attacking moves while breaking quickly on the counter. After persistent pressure, the German side eventually found the victory, with two impressive individual moments from Luis Díaz and Michael Olise late in the match.

Luis Diaz and Michael Olise impressed with their brilliant goals

Relentlessly pressing for a goal in the second half, Bayern Munich finally broke the deadlock in the aggregate score. Driving into Real Madrid’s box, Aleksandar Pavlović executed a short pass to Luis Díaz on the left, who then returned it and laid it off to Jamal Musiala. The German executed a first-time backheel pass, setting up the Colombian perfectly. After dribbling past the defenders, Díaz fired an excellent shot past Lunin.

Far from settling after Luis Díaz’s goal, the German side maintained their attacking intent. Following a pass from Harry Kane, Michael Olise drove efficiently toward Real Madrid’s box. Taking on Antonio Rüdiger and Franco Mastantuono, the Frenchman unleashed a stunning strike from outside the area, placing the ball into the corner of the net and leaving Andriy Lunin with no chance, making it 6–4 on aggregate.

LUIS DÍAZ AND MICHAEL OLISE WIN IT FOR BAYERN AT THE DEATH 🔥

THEY KNOCK 15-TIME CHAMPIONS REAL MADRID OUT OF THE UCL 💥 pic.twitter.com/sS4AWvsEgs

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 15, 2026

Arsenal and Sporting CP are clashing at the Emirates Stadium for the UEFA Champions League, a must-watch game alongside our liveblog coverage.

Arsenal hosted Sporting CP on Wednesday, April 15, for the second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals at Emirates Stadium. Following a scoreless draw, the Gunners maintained their aggregate advantage from the first leg to secure a spot in the semifinals for the second consecutive season.

The Gunners returned home holding a 1-0 aggregate lead established at José Alvalade Stadium, courtesy of Kai Havertz’s dramatic last-minute winner. Aware of their slim cushion, the hosts adopted a disciplined approach, conceding just one shot on target to a Sporting CP side that proved unable to crack Arsenal’s defensive shape.

With the result, an unbeaten Arsenal side has reached the Champions League semifinals in back-to-back seasons for the first time in club history. They now advance to face Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid, an opponent they already dismantled earlier this season with a dominant 4-0 victory during the league phase at the Emirates.

After being eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, Liverpool appear to have no choice but to focus on the next season. With Hugo Ekitike reportedly suffering an Achilles tendon injury, the Reds are said to be accelerating their plans, adding a striker reinforcement.

Unlike the previous season, Liverpool are having a disappointing campaign, no longer competing for the Premier League and being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League. Alongside these struggles, Hugo Ekitike had to be substituted in the previous match, reportedly suffering a season-ending injury. Because of this, the Reds have allegedly accelerated their plans, now adding a striker reinforcement in their objectives.

According to L’Equipe, Hugo Ekitike has suffered a torn Achilles tendon, ruling him out of the 2026 World Cup with France. As a result, the forward could be sidelined for 7–9 months, missing the first half of next season and possibly returning in top form by the end of the 2026–27 season. For this reason, the Reds have reportedly decided to accelerate their transfer plans for the summer of 2026, with Anthony Gordon as their target.

Following Mohamed Salah’s departure at the end of the season, the Reds had decided to pursue a winger, reportedly making Yan Diomande their top priority. Alongside the Ivorian, they have also targeted a striker, with Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United emerging as the main objective. However, Liverpool are also closely monitoring Jarrod Bowen, Harry Wilson, Iliman Ndiaye, and Bazoumana Touré, according to TEAMtalk.

Unlike Ekitike, Anthony Gordon is not a natural centre-forward, but he mainly excels as a left winger. However, the Englishman has shown the ability to perform in this role, making his arrival a strong possibility. In addition, he could also provide depth on the flanks once the Frenchman returns. For this reason, he would be an ideal fit for the squad, although his transfer could exceed $100 million.

Liverpool have already lost both of their starting forwards

Liverpool have not had success with their marquee attacking signings. After paying €240M (around $283M) for Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, both have suffered serious injuries in their first season at the club. While the Swede suffered a severe fibula fracture, the Frenchman suffered an Achilles tendon rupture, with both missing the chance to shine on the pitch in the Reds’ initial plan.

Even though Isak is back, he’ll need to get back into competitive form, as he hasn’t managed to shine under Arne Slot. With just a few games left to secure a spot in the 2026–27 Champions League, the Swede will get plenty of playing time as he looks to recapture the form that made him shine at Newcastle United. Alongside him, Rio Ngumoha will play a more prominent role on the team, as he has impressed and will be untransferable for next season, reports Football Insider.

Hugo Ekitike had been the Reds’ most efficient striker. After playing 45 games, the Frenchman had emerged as the team’s top scorer, netting 17 goals. As a result, the team will face a tough challenge in replacing him, so Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah must step up to contribute to the scoring effort. With nearly nine months of recovery time, the possible arrival of Anthony Gordon would be an interesting alternative.

Set to face Sporting CP in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Arsenal might be dealing once again with the absence of star Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal host the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash against Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium this Wednesday, looking to protect a slim lead and advance to the final four. While the Gunners enter as heavy favorites, star winger Bukayo Saka has been entirely left out of the Gunners’ squad.

Bukayo Saka won’t be featuring in the return leg against Sporting CP due to injury. The England international was widely expected to return for Saturday’s fixture against Bournemouth but failed to make the squad; his subsequent absence from Tuesday’s training session further dims the prospects of him playing a role in this continental decider.

Manager Mikel Arteta was noncommittal when asked if Saka or defender Jurrien Timber might return to the fold, offering only that “maybe one of them” could be involved. However, when pressed on the nature of the winger’s injury and its recent persistence, the Spaniard provided a bit more clarity for the worried Emirates faithful.

“It’s something that he was carrying for a while. It was an Achilles issue,” Arteta said. “It’s progression but hopefully it’s going to be a matter of days and not weeks. But he has to see when the load is more how he responds to that kind of progression,” he added.

Arsenal navigating a fitness crisis

Saka isn’t the only concern for a depleted Arsenal squad; Tuesday’s training session raised red flags regarding several other key contributors. Missing from the main group were midfield anchors Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, along with defender Riccardo Calafiori.

While Rice has reportedly recovered and should be available for selection, significant questions remain over whether Odegaard and Calafiori are fit enough to start. This personnel crunch may force Arteta to lean on his depth as he looks to defend a narrow 1-0 aggregate advantage in the Champions League clash.

Confirmed lineups for Arsenal and Sporting CP

Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): David Raya; Cristhian Mosquera, William Saliba, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli; Viktor Gyokeres.
Head coach: Mikel Arteta.

Sporting CP’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Rui Silva; Eduardo Quaresma, Ousmane Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Maximiliano Araujo; Morten Hjulmand, Hidemasa Morita; Geny Catamo, Francisco Trincao, Pedro Goncalves; Luis Javier Suarez.
Head coach: Rui Borges.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence continues to stretch far beyond his own performances, now shaping the early career of his son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., within Al-Nassr.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence continues to stretch far beyond his own performances, now shaping the early career of his son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., within Al-Nassr. As attention grows around the next generation, the young forward is beginning to attract headlines of his own. Playing for the same club in the youth setup, his development is already drawing comparisons that feel almost inevitable.

The connection between father and son has long fascinated soccer supporters. From training habits to playing style, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is steadily building his own identity while reflecting elements of one of the game’s greatest players. His journey through the academy system is being followed closely, especially as moments of brilliance begin to surface more frequently.

A recent video shared online sparked widespread excitement among fans. According to the viral 44-second clip circulating on social media, the teenager delivered a standout performance in a youth match. The clip, filmed during a night game, showcases the young talent in a competitive setting against Al-Fayha at youth level.

The short video offers glimpses of attacking movements, quick decision-making, and composure in front of the goal. It also reinforces the growing narrative that Ronaldo’s legacy could continue through his son’s progress within the same soccer environment.

Watch Ronaldo Jr.’s standout performance vs Al-Fayha

In fact, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. scored a hat-trick in a 4-3 victory for Al-Nassr U-16, delivering a decisive contribution in a tightly contested game. As can be seen, one of the goals came from a direct free-kick, adding another layer to the performance.

Beyond the goals themselves, the celebration that followed captured just as much attention. He recreated his father’s iconic ‘siu’ celebration, a moment that resonated strongly with fans familiar with Ronaldo’s trademark style. The resemblance in both execution and confidence added to the sense of déjà vu surrounding the performance.

Growing under the spotlight

At 15 years old in 2026, Ronaldo Jr. is still in the early stages of his soccer journey. Fans highlighted how he seems to be gradually shaping his own identity while still mirroring key traits of his father. From movement off the ball to finishing instinct, the parallels between the two are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr has clearly created an environment where his son is not only developing as a player but also growing within a global spotlight. Every performance is now viewed through the lens of legacy and expectation.

Christian Pulisic could soon share the dressing room with 2022 World Cup winner Paulo Dybala at Milan, with both names now circulating in a developing transfer story that has caught attention across Europe.

Christian Pulisic could soon share the dressing room with 2022 World Cup winner Paulo Dybala at Milan, with both names now circulating in a developing transfer story that has caught attention across Europe. At the center of the story is Dybala’s unclear future with Roma.

His contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and no renewal has been agreed, placing him among the most high-profile free agents potentially available. Despite receiving offers from abroad, his preference has been to remain in Italy and continue competing at the highest level.

Reports from Italy suggest that Dybala is seriously considering a move to Milan. According to Corriere dello Sport, the Argentine forward is willing to accept a significant salary reduction in order to join the club, underlining his desire to make the move happen.

Further reports reinforce the same idea, pointing to Dybala’s admiration for the opportunity to play at San Siro. Calciomercato notes that he could even accept a performance-based contract due to his recent injury history, reflecting a pragmatic approach to negotiations. His priority remains staying competitive in Europe, even as other options emerge.

The factor behind a possible move

While the prospect of the 32-year-old forward joining Milan is gaining attention, there is a key condition shaping the situation. The report adds that much depends on the future of Rafael Leao, whose role and consistency have come under scrutiny this season. His performances have been affected by tactical changes and fitness issues, leading to growing debate among supporters.

Milan faces a difficult decision regarding Leao, who remains one of the club’s most valuable assets. A potential departure would create both the financial space and tactical need for a player like Dybala, making the connection between the two situations impossible to ignore. Without that shift, any move becomes far more complicated.

Milan’s bigger transfer picture

The club is already exploring ways to reshape its attack ahead of the summer. Multiple names, including high-profile forwards like Robert Lewandowski and Dusan Vlahovic, have been linked as the Rossoneri evaluate how to strengthen their frontline, particularly with Champions League qualification still uncertain. Financial considerations continue to play a major role in every decision.

The uncertainty around Pulisic also adds another layer to the equation. While he remains an important figure, his recent form has been inconsistent, and the club is assessing its options carefully. A potential arrival like Dybala could either complement or complicate the existing structure.

Christian Pulisic finds himself at the center of growing transfer speculation despite a difficult run of form, as interest from Liverpool and Tottenham begins to intensify

Christian Pulisic finds himself at the center of growing transfer speculation despite a difficult run of form, as interest from Liverpool and Tottenham begins to intensify. The situation surrounding the winger has taken on a new dimension, with uncertainty over his future at Milan and questions about his role moving forward.

The season began with promise, as Milan found rhythm and attacking fluidity in the early months. Pulisic scored eight league goals between August and December, playing a central role in the team’s push near the top of the table. That early momentum, however, has faded as the campaign entered a more demanding phase.

The turn of the year has brought a dramatic shift in the Americans’ performances. He has not scored a competitive goal in 2026 and is currently enduring a drought of more than 100 days, a statistic that has raised concerns inside the club. Injuries have played their part, disrupting his consistency and limiting his overall impact in key matches.

Milan’s broader struggles have only increased scrutiny on Pulisic and the attacking unit. A heavy 3-0 defeat highlighted the team’s inconsistency, with just two wins in the last five league matches putting its Champions League hopes under threat. Despite being among the more active attackers on the pitch, Pulisic has found it difficult to influence decisive moments.

His inability to convert chances has mirrored the team’s struggles, contributing to a slide down the table at a crucial stage of the season. The Serie A giant remains in contention for a top-four finish, but the margin for error is shrinking. Upcoming fixtures are now seen as pivotal, both for Milan’s ambitions and for Pulisic’s future at San Siro.

Milan’s reported asking price revealed

As speculation grows, attention has shifted to Milan’s stance on a potential transfer. According to Il Giornale, Milan would consider offers in the region of $65 million for Pulisic. With just one year remaining on his contract worth approximately $5.5 million per season, the Italian outfit is under pressure to make a decision.

Selling the 27-year-old winger could generate significant funds to reinvest in the squad, especially if Champions League qualification is not secured. At the same time, the club must weigh the loss of a high-profile player who has played a key role in its recent rebuild.

Premier League interest gathers pace

The report adds that interest from England continues to gather momentum as two major clubs monitor the situation closely. Liverpool is reportedly exploring attacking reinforcements, while Tottenham views Pulisic as part of a potential rebuild. Both clubs see an opportunity to secure a proven player who has already experienced the demands of top-level soccer.

His revived reputation after leaving England, combined with his versatility and experience, makes him an attractive option despite recent struggles. The financial strength of Premier League sides means that meeting Milan’s valuation may not be a major obstacle. The key question is whether that interest will translate into a formal offer in the coming months.

Gabriele Gravina has admitted regret over his time in charge of the FIGC, acknowledging he may have stayed on too long before stepping down after acknowledging “what had been done could not be improved further.”

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Speaking to Le Iene, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, Gravina said he felt “bitter” about failing to deliver the results fans deserved, particularly in light of Italy’s ongoing struggles on the international stage.

“I’m disappointed for not giving our fans what they deserved,” he said. “Above all, I regret not stepping aside earlier, when I realised that what had been done could not be improved further.”

Gravina pushes back against Italy critics

Gravina also pushed back against criticism of his leadership, highlighting key achievements during his tenure.

“What I cannot accept is being called unworthy,” he added. “Important work was done, especially in terms of financial stability. We secured co-hosting rights for Euro 2032, one of the biggest sporting events in the world. People forget that after 53 years we won the European Championship, and the Under-17 side also lifted their first European title.”

However, Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup remains a major shadow. Gravina pointed to structural issues within Italian football, particularly the limited opportunities for domestic players.

“We produce talent, but it is not used,” he explained. “Around 70% of players are foreign, leaving only 30% eligible for the national team. Clubs operate as businesses, so you cannot force them to make different choices. The only solution is to change the culture and introduce incentives.”

He also clarified previous controversial remarks about other sports, insisting they were misunderstood.

“My comments were about regulations, not a lack of respect,” Gravina said. “I admire athletes from all disciplines and their sacrifices. I never intended to offend anyone.”

Chelsea face Manchester United this weekend in what could be the Blues’ last real chance to keep their Champions League qualification hopes alive.

BUY CHELSEA VS. MAN UNITED TICKETS

Liam Rosenior’s side are on an awful run of form at the moment, winning just one of their last six games in all competitions, and losing three in a row without even scoring a goal in the Premier League.

Still, there are five Champions League places up for grabs now and the gap with Liverpool is not insurmountable just yet, so can Chelsea pick up a vital win against Man Utd this weekend?

The Red Devils have been much-improved under Michael Carrick and are looking reasonably sure of Champions League qualification, but could that mean they end up taking their eye off the ball a little bit?

Either way, it should be an unmissable game between two big clubs who always put on a show when they meet, whether it’s been in title races or in top-four battles like this.

How to buy Chelsea tickets

Chelsea fans can find the club’s official ticket page via the link here, but there can be issues with both affordability and availability if you go down that route.

It’s well worth trying our alternative here as it allows you an easy-to-use site with direct access to the games you care about, without the extra cost and hassle of becoming a season ticket holder or club member.

How to buy Manchester United tickets

Manchester United supporters looking for the club’s official ticket page can use the link here, but we’d again suggest keeping an alternative in mind as well.

To make sure you don’t miss out on this big game and others, our link lets you follow your club without extra costs or getting stuck behind season-ticket holders in the queue.

BUY CHELSEA VS. MAN UNITED TICKETS

How Chelsea could line up vs Manchester United

Chelsea fans will no doubt be keen to see if Enzo Fernandez returns to Rosenior’s line up for this game after the club suspended him for two games.

If the Argentina international does make it back, it should give CFC a much stronger-looking side to take on United, though there are clearly still issues in this team.

It remains to be seen if Rosenior will be tempted to rotate some of the players who performed so poorly against Man City, but one imagines his lack of options probably means there won’t be too much rotation.

Chelsea predicted line-up: Sanchez; Gusto, Cucurella, Fofana, Hato; Caicedo, Fernandez, Palmer; Garnacho, Neto, Pedro.

How Manchester United could line up vs Chelsea

Man United’s team more or less picks itself these days, but Matthijs de Ligt and Patrick Dorgu remain long-term absentees from the squad.

Still others, like Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, should be fit again for this game, while Harry Maguire will be back from suspension and will probably be back in the team.

Man Utd predicted line-up: Lammens; Dalot, Shaw, Maguire, Martinez; Casemiro, Mainoo, Fernandes; Mbeumo, Cunha, Sesko.

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Chelsea vs Manchester United head-to-head record

This fixture has tended to be quite close down the years, though going further back through history, it’s United who have the upper hand overall.

MUFC have won this fixture 84 times in total, drawing 57, and losing 57.

In more recent history, there’s been very little between them, with Chelsea winning three of their last twelve meetings, United winning the other three, and six draws.

At Stamford Bridge, however, United have a pretty poor record, having failed to win there since February 2020.

Reports in Italy claim that Milan sporting director Igli Tare recently met with Robert Lewandowski’s agent, but the Rossoneri’s CEO, Giorgio Furlani, doesn’t seem inclined to pay a high salary to a player well over 30.

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Milan are looking for a new centre-forward for 2026-27, given their strikers’ struggles in the current campaign.

Milan in talks with Lewandowski

Barcelona star Lewandowski, whose contract at the Nou Camp expires in June, has long been a transfer target for the Rossoneri, and according to Calciomercato.com, Tare recently met the striker’s representative, Pini Zahavi, for dinner.

Technically, Milan are interested in Lewandowski, who is said to have also attracted interest from Juventus and received a big-money offer from an unnamed MLS club.

However, according to Calciomercato.com and Corriere della Sera, Milan CEO Furlani is currently reluctant to make a major investment, even in salary terms, for a player who will turn 38 in August.

Milan signed Niclas Fullkrug on loan with an option to buy from West Ham in the January window, but seem eager to send the German back to London at the end of the season.

 

Arsenal are interested in signing the Sunderland defensive midfielder Noah Sadiki at the end of the season.

According to reports from Spain, they have identified the 21-year-old as a key target for the summer transfer window. The DR Congo International has impressed in the Premier League since joining the Black Cats at the start of the season. It will be difficult for them to hold onto him beyond this season. Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also admire the player.

The 21-year-old midfielder has a contract with Sunderland until 2030, and they are under no pressure to sanction his departure in the summer. Arsenal will have to pay a premium to get the deal done. They could use an upgrade on Christian Norgaard, and signing the Sunderland star could be a wise investment. He is a young player with a bright future, and Arsenal could groom him into a star. He will add physicality and defensive cover to the team.

The opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs in the country will be exciting for Sadiki as well.

Meanwhile, Tottenham will need to replace Joao Palhinha. The Portuguese international will leave the club when his loan expires. They need a defensive presence in the middle of the park, and the 21-year-old Sunderland star could be the ideal fit for them.

Chelsea already have Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia at their disposal. It will be interesting to see how they accommodate the 21-year-old in the starting lineup if they end up signing him. Sadiki will want to play regularly. Sitting on the bench at a big club will not appeal to him.

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Liverpool fans have been hit with the worst possible news as their season continues to spiral, with star forward Hugo Ekitike confirmed to miss up to nine months after suffering a devastating injury during Tuesday night’s Champions League exit to PSG.

The 23-year-old was stretchered off in tears after just 22 minutes at Anfield, having collapsed unchallenged while clutching his ankle.

The atmosphere at the club, already described as being at an all-time low, has plummeted further with the confirmation of a ruptured right Achilles tendon.

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Ben Jacobs gives update on Hugo Ekitike’s injury

Journalist Ben Jacobs has confirmed the severity of the situation, noting that the French international will not only miss the remainder of Liverpool’s campaign but is also officially ruled out of the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Jacobs posted the following on X:

“Hugo Ekitike faces several months out with an Achilles tendon injury sustained in the Champions League quarter-final defeat. The French international will miss the World Cup and could be sidelined for up to nine months.”

Ekitike, who has been Liverpool’s top scorer this season with 17 goals, might not return to training until 2027.

Manager Arne Slot, who had already seen his side dumped out of the FA Cup and Champions League in a matter of days, admitted the situation looks really bad.

Liverpool’s mounting attacking crisis

The timing of Ekitike’s injury creates a catastrophic vacuum in Liverpool’s frontline.

With Mohamed Salah officially confirmed to be leaving Anfield this summer and club-record signing Alexander Isak still struggling to find his rhythm after returning from a broken leg, the Reds are facing a total offensive rebuild.

Slot’s “star signings” from last summer have rarely been able to play together due to a persistent injury curse.

Competition	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Premier League	28	11	4
UEFA Champions League	12	3	1
FA Cup	3	1	1
Community Shield	1	1	—
EFL Cup	1	1	—
Total	45	17	6

Hugo Ekitike stats for 25/26 via transfermarkt

With Ekitike sidelined for the bulk of next season, the recruitment team will now be forced back into the market to find an elite replacement.

Failure to do so could see the Reds’ poor season extend well into the 2026/27 campaign.

The post Journalist shares worst possible news for Liverpool fans as season hits rock bottom appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are looking to replace Robert Sanchez at the end of the season, and they have identified James Trafford as a target.

The English goalkeeper has struggled for regular opportunities at Manchester City and might need to leave to play more often. He’s a talented goalkeeper with a bright future, but sitting on the bench at Manchester City could be detrimental to his development. He needs regular opportunities in order to fulfil his potential.

Trafford has been described as a “world class” goalkeeper in the past.

Sanchez has failed to live up to the expectations at Chelsea, and they are prepared to cash in on him. Replacing him with Trafford could be a wise decision. The Manchester City goalkeeper will be determined to prove himself at the highest level, and his hunger to succeed will be a huge bonus for Chelsea.

It will be interesting to see if Manchester City is willing to sanction his departure.

According to reports from Spain, the player’s market value is around €25 million. The 23-year-old certainly has the quality to justify the investment, and he could even prove to be a major bargain at that price.

Meanwhile, Chelsea is not the only club after him. Newcastle United and Tottenham are also monitoring his situation.

Newcastle need a quality long-term replacement for Nick Pope, who is in the twilight stages of his career. On the other hand, Tottenham need a replacement for Guglielmo Vicario, who has been quite inconsistent. The Italian has been linked with a return to his homeland, and Trafford could be the ideal replacement.

All three clubs have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen where the 23-year-old Manchester City goalkeeper ends up eventually.

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Arsenal are prepared to sanction the departures of Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz at the end of the season.

Jesus has recently returned from injury and has struggled for gametime with the London club. He needs to leave in order to play more often. It is no surprise that Arsenal are prepared to sanction his departure. He is not a guaranteed starter for them, and they should look to cash in on the Brazilian and invest the proceeds into the squad.

According to reports from Spain, they are prepared to sell Jesus for €40 million in the summer. On the other hand, Havertz has fallen down the picking order at the north London club, and he could be sold for a fee of around €80 million. The German International has not been able to make the desired impact since joining Arsenal, even though he has shown flashes of his quality at times, and he has scored some important goals for the club.

Havertz has 33 goals and 16 assists in 104 matches for the Gunners.

The report claims that Arsenal view Viktor Gyokeres as the focal point of their attacking unit going forward, and therefore, they would be prepared to sell the two players for a substantial sum in the summer.

Arsenal will be hoping to fight for League titles and the Champions League in the coming season. They need a deeper squad in order to do well across multiple competitions. Keeping multiple quality players at the club should be a priority for them. Havertz and Jesus are dynamic attackers who can slot into multiple roles and perform at a high level. They could prove very useful to the club in the future.

Havertz, in particular, is a technically gifted player and tactically quite intelligent. He has been labelled as an “amazing player” by his teammates in the past. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

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Verdict: Eli Junior Kroupi over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 7/10 Bookmaker: Dachbet Looking to pile more pressure onto Newcastle this weekend, Bournemouth will travel to St. James’ Park on Saturday afternoon. Newcastle Starting with the hosts, making history at Wembley 13 months ago as they were crowned EFL Cup champions and securing a […]

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Verdict: Both teams to score Best Odds: 7/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet With west London bragging rights up for grabs on Saturday lunchtime, Brentford will welcome Fulham to the Gtech. Brentford Starting with the hosts, while Brentford might have cemented their spot as one of the Premier League’s ultimate surprise packages this season, the Bees do find […]

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Manchester United are dealing with a shortage of central defenders ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea, following the FA’s decision to lengthen Harry Maguire’s suspension stemming from his dismissal against Bournemouth. The defender was absent from Monday’s loss to Leeds United after serving the standard one-game ban triggered by the red card he […]

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According to multiple sources, Ibrahima Konate is on the verge of reaching an agreement over a new contract with Liverpool. It is very close, with minor details over bonuses the only issue remaining to be ironed out. The talks were put on hold for a few days as the Merseysiders focused on their Champions League […]

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Some Santos fans were involved in an unfriendly exchange with Neymar.

Santos are having serious trouble getting positive results this season, both domestically and continentally. In that context, Neymar was involved in a tense argument with some fans, who demanded a greater level of commitment to the club.

This Tuesday, Santos drew 1-1 against Recoleta FC in the Copa Sudamericana group stage and, after the final whistle, some people at Urbano Caldeira Stadium booed the Brazilian forward, who responded with gestures asking them to be quiet.

“I’m going to give you your minute of fame. Am I spoiled? I’m giving absolutely everything out here and you don’t respect that,” Ney said to one of the fans who criticized him. He then took aim at the fan’s physical appearance: “You should train more! You’re getting a little chubby!”

A few minutes after that tense exchange, Neymar gave an interview to ESPN in which he addressed his confrontation with the fans in the stands. “I understand fans who criticize our play, but when it becomes personal and they attack me in a different way, I can’t accept it,” he said.

“I can’t accept it because I’m a very consistent guy. I give my life for soccer and for this club. I even do more than I should, so they can’t treat me like this,” added the 34-year-old star. “I’m not saying they shouldn’t criticize my performances on the field, but I don’t accept criticism for what I do off it.”

Santos struggling to find direction

The fans’ animosity toward Neymar, while surprising, is understandable given that the team’s recent results have fallen well short of expectations. After avoiding relegation in the final matches of last year, they entered this season with hopes of competing for trophies, but so far that has not been the case.

In the Brazilian Serie A, Santos are in 15th place with just three wins in 11 matches, only three points clear of the relegation zone. Their Copa Sudamericana campaign has also been underwhelming: they lost their opener against Deportivo Cuenca and drew their second match against Recoleta FC, leaving them at the bottom of Group D for now.

Neymar needs to stand out at Santos

Santos’ slow start to the season certainly does not help Neymar. He has two months to try to show Carlo Ancelotti that he is in peak physical and competitive condition to be part of the 26-man roster that will represent Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Individually, however, he has shown consistent form. So far in 2026, Ney has recorded eight appearances for Santos, with seven goal contributions (four goals and three assists). Those are solid numbers, especially considering the difficult team context, which has included a recent coaching change.

After losing 1-2 to Bayern Munich, Real Madrid are looking to stage a comeback in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals. However, los Blancos do not only need a win, but are also forced into a specific scenario. Here, we will analyze the three possible outcomes.

While Real Madrid did not deliver a standout performance in the first leg, they managed to stay alive against Bayern Munich thanks to Kylian Mbappé and his late goal. Needing to overturn the scoreline, Los Blancos could opt for an offensive approach in search of making the difference. Despite this, they require a specific scenario to secure their place in the semifinals of the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League.

Bayern Munich have proven to be one of the best teams in the world. Led by Harry Kane and Manuel Neuer, they have dominated their opponents throughout the season. In addition, coach Vincent Kompany welcomes back Serge Gnabry, who claims to be in peak physical condition and will be key to organizing the offense. However, they will face a tough challenge defensively, as los Blancos already exploited their spaces in the first leg with Vinícius Jr. and Mbappé.

The German side dominated much of the first leg, but they suffered a drop in performance after substituting Serge Gnabry and Konrad Laimer, as they were the ones leading and supporting the attack. As a result, both are expected to start and play key roles in pressing Real Madrid, who will be without Aurélien Tchouaméni—forcing coach Álvaro Arbeloa to adjust the midfield, a very tough challenge for the second leg.

Los Blancos will have to make changes to their starting lineup, as Tchouaméni’s absence is significant. Therefore, coach Arbeloa is reportedly set to deploy Federico Valverde as a defensive midfielder, as Eduardo Camavinga did not fully convince with his performance against Girona FC. In addition, Jude Bellingham could play a crucial role, as he impressed in the first leg and appears to be back in top form after his physical issues.

How could Real Madrid’s win against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

In case Real Madrid secure a victory over Bayern Munich, they would not immediately guarantee a place in the 2025–26 Champions League semifinals. Trailing by just one goal in the aggregate score, Los Blancos need to win by a two-goal margin against the German side to advance. Should they accomplish this, they would face PSG, another top contender for the title, as they pursue their second consecutive Champions League victory.

How could Real Madrid’s draw against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

Holding just one-goal margin in the overall score, Real Madrid would be directly eliminated of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League in case they draw against Bayern Munich. For that reason, the German side would be getting a ticket for the semifinals, for a second consecutive season, facing PSG in one of the best clashes, as both have been dominating.

If Los Blancos clinch a victory by a one-goal margin, they would level the aggregate score, opening the door to compete for a place in the next round of the tournament. As this is the second leg, a winner would have to be decided in extra time, with two periods of 15 minutes each. If there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where a definitive winner would to face PSG.

How could Real Madrid’s defeat against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

Having failed to secure a decisive victory in the first leg, Real Madrid would be eliminated from the 2025-26 Champions League if they lose to Bayern Munich. For that reason, los Blancos would go two seasons without reaching the tournament’s semifinals—something that hasn’t happened since 2020, when they were eliminated in the round of 16 for two consecutive seasons. Meanwhile, the German side returns to this stage after a two-year absence.

Bayern will face Real Madrid in the second leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Check here for kickoff times and how to watch the match on TV or via streaming in the United States.

Match Overview

Real Madrid head into the decisive second leg trailing on aggregate, but their late push in the opener—highlighted by a key goal that cut Bayern Munich’s lead to 2-1—has kept this heavyweight showdown finely balanced.

Bayern, now back on home soil, will aim to build on their advantage after dictating much of the first meeting, yet the presence of Kylian Mbappe and Madrid’s reputation for thriving under pressure ensures there’s little separating these European giants as a semifinal spot hangs in the balance.

Arsenal receive Sporting CP in the second leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Check here for kickoff times and how to watch the match on TV or via streaming in the United States.

Match Overview

All eyes shift to the return leg as Arsenal prepare to defend a fragile advantage on home soil after escaping the first meeting with a late 1-0 breakthrough. What looked on paper like a comfortable matchup turned into a battle, with the Gunners forced to dig deep despite their superior form and squad depth.

Now, with everything still in the balance, Sporting CP arrive knowing a single moment could flip the tie, bringing urgency and belief into a showdown that promises intensity from the opening whistle—don’t miss a second of what’s shaping up to be a must-watch clash.

Former Milan star Marcel Desailly feels Alessandro Bastoni could bring Barcelona to a ‘different level’, but the Inter defender ‘isn’t even half of Paolo Maldini.’

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Ex-Milan and France defender Desailly spoke to the Italian Football Podcast about two under-fire Serie A stars in recent weeks: Inter’s Bastoni and Milan’s Rafael Leao.

Bastoni has received criticism from fans and media alike in recent months. The Inter star was first involved in a huge controversy during a Serie A match against Juventus in February, when he caused and celebrated a red card for Pierre Kalulu.

A few weeks later, he received a straight red card in Italy’s World Cup play-off Final against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which proved to be a big turning point in the Azzurri’s loss on penalties.

“I think he has been consistent, I think he’s been at Inter for like seven seasons and doing well no matter who the coach is,” Desailly said.

“I don’t think he’s a top international leader, but as you said, he is a player who knows how to adapt to the system. This is his limit.

“He has helped Inter to probably win the league this season by his consistency and understanding of how to read the game. But I think the limit is there, international level, this is it. They don’t play the same system.

Desailly on Bastoni transfer: Barcelona ‘weak at the back’

“He managed to adapt himself again with Gattuso. He is on the left side, if you want to compare him to Maldini, but he isn’t even half of Maldini. But he is who he is.”

Several sources claim that Bastoni, who is under contract with Inter until 2028, is keen to join Barcelona in the summer, and Desailly believes that both the defender and Barça would benefit from such a move.

“Yes I mean it is a good experience to match your level. Same as Leao, I don’t know his winning mentality. He is a defender, he isn’t a creative player,” said Desailly, a 1998 France World Cup winner.

“But maybe he can lift the level to understand and adapt to Barcelona’s level where they are in need of a strong defensive attitude.

“You can see Barcelona, in each position they are just amazing, but they are weak at the back, and that is why they don’t win the Champions League.

“So he could be that player that brings that consistency and that strength on the defensive block to bring Barcelona to another level. Because they definitely need defensive leaders in the squad.”

Milan star Rafael Leao hasn’t scored a goal since March 1, and Gazzetta dello Sport recently argued that the Portuguese winger and the Rossoneri should part ways at the end of the season.

“You said it, you cannot criticise him, because the day you criticise him, he will produce magic on the pitch. And you are stuck, and you don’t know what to say anymore. In five seconds, he will crash out all the negativity you put on him,” argued Desailly.

“But we know 100% that he doesn’t have the consistency. And he isn’t on his own a leader for a full season like Messi was, and Neymar was.

“He doesn’t have that consistency. He is an important player for the team, but he can never be the main man throughout the season. He can be the main man once in a while because he will be on and off.

“And he looks like he has reached the maximum level he can produce. I can’t criticise him because he is earning a lot of money and plays for Milan and the Portuguese national team.

“But I think that he thinks he is everything. He isn’t mentally ready to study where he can improve physically, because he potentially cannot give more physically,” continued the ex-Milan defender.

“Then maybe he can potentially study how to change his diet, training or whatever to have that consistency. He is a bit of a problem in a system because he doesn’t track back. He’ll push forward but when the action is finished, he stops.

“It means he doesn’t have the legs to get back into position. So, there must be a physical and mental approach that could eventually bring him to the level of, because he could be Ballon d’Or.

“But does he really want it? Is his entourage smart enough to be able to tell him, ‘Look, what you’ve done is great, but to get to the next level, you will need to adjust certain things.’

“Because for now this is the maximum we can expect from Leao.”

 

Diego Simeone tells Italy legends Alessandro Del Piero and Alessandro Costacurta that Atletico Madrid have learned that they must ‘hurt’ Barcelona, ‘otherwise, they will.’

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Simeone’s Atletico Madrid knocked Barcelona out of the Champions League quarter-finals with a 3-2 aggregate win.

Simeone, a former Catania coach and an ex-midfielder of Pisa, Lazio and Inter, spoke to Sky Sport Italia at full-time.

Simeone examines Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona with Italy legends

Fabio Capello asked whether the Colchoneros should have kept a higher line in the final ten minutes, with Barcelona reduced to ten men.

• Read more – Ruggeri on Italy snub and marking Yamal: ‘Not just me’

“You know well that sometimes what one wants is not what the players can give,” Simeone replied.

“Sometimes the coaches shout, but the players are like: ‘Gaffer, I just can’t get there.’ Even with one man down, they couldn’t get there. We knew we had to keep a higher line. I kept telling Julian: ‘Mark Pedri, go on the right.’ But he said: ‘Mister, I’m dead.’ I was angrier after the first leg, because we played one man up for 45 minutes, so I was angry when I left. If you don’t score against them, you lose, because they are so strong. Even if you play behind the ball, you’ll concede in the end.”

Ex-Italy defender Costacurta praised Simeone for resting all his starters in the previous La Liga match.

“On Saturday, we had made many changes to the lineup; everyone rested, knowing the effort we’d need today,” said Simeone.

“But, Mamma Mia, they play so well, they attack so well, they come from everywhere. Against them, we have understood that we have to hurt them; otherwise, they will.”

Atletico Madrid have reached the Champions League semis four times under Simeone and twice made it to the Final, so Del Piero asked if the Argentine felt “something special” this season.

“Yes, I do. And there is,” Simeone concluded, smiling.

 

According to multiple sources, Ibrahima Konate is on the verge of reaching an agreement over a new contract with Liverpool. It is very close, with minor details over bonuses the only issue remaining to be ironed out. The talks were put on hold for a few days as the Merseysiders focused on their Champions League […]

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The Saudi Pro League returns with a high-stakes clash that could shape the title race, as Al-Nassr welcomes Al-Ettifaq in Riyadh.

The Saudi Pro League returns with a high-stakes clash that could shape the title race, as Al-Nassr welcomes Al-Ettifaq in Riyadh. With Cristiano Ronaldo at the center of attention, uncertainty surrounding his involvement has added intrigue to an already crucial encounter.

The home side enters the match in dominant form, sitting at the top of the table and pushing for a long-awaited league title. A five-point lead and a remarkable winning streak have placed Al-Nassr in a commanding position, but the pressure remains intense with only a handful of matches left. Meanwhile, Al-Ettifaq arrives looking to disrupt the momentum despite inconsistent performances in recent weeks.

The stakes could hardly be higher as the league campaign approaches its decisive stretch. Al-Nassr has collected over 70 points and built one of the strongest attacking records in the competition, scoring freely while maintaining defensive stability. Its recent 2-0 victory over Al-Akhdoud reinforced its credentials as the team to beat.

Al-Ettifaq, on the other hand, finds itself in a very different situation. Sitting seventh with mixed results, the team has struggled for consistency, including a recent 3-2 defeat that exposed defensive vulnerabilities. Despite that, their ability to challenge stronger opponents keeps this fixture unpredictable.

Will Ronaldo play?

As anticipation built, the focus inevitably shifted to whether Ronaldo would feature in such a crucial match. Cristiano Ronaldo will start and lead the attack, adding firepower to the lineup. The Portuguese partnership between Ronaldo and Joao Felix has added creativity and finishing power in the final third.

The Portuguese forward returned from a recent hamstring injury in sharp form, scoring three goals in his last two appearances. His tally of 24 league goals and an astonishing 968 career goals underline his continued influence, even at this stage of his career. What’s more, he needs six more goals to surpass Mohammed Al-Sahlawi and become Al-Nassr’s all-time top goalscorer in the Saudi Pro League.

Both sides enter the match with important squad updates that could influence the outcome. Al-Nassr will be without Angelo Gabriel after a fitness setback, while the return of Inigo Martinez strengthens the defensive options.

Al-Nassr vs Al-Ettifaq: Confirmed lineups

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

Al-Ettifaq confirmed XI (5-3-2): Rodak; Radi, Khateem, Jack, Calvo, Nkota; Duda, Medran; Wijnaldum; Al Ghannam; Dembele.

In the aftermath, Yamal addressed the defeat with a message that reflected both realism and ambition.

The spotlight once again fell on Lamine Yamal as Barcelona bowed out of the UEFA Champions League dramatically. The teenager played a decisive role on the night, yet the result left the club facing another painful European exit.

Barcelona arrived at the Metropolitano needing a response against Atletico Madrid after the first-leg setback. The start could hardly have been more promising, with Yamal inspiring belief by striking early and setting the tone for a frantic opening.

The team surged forward with confidence, and the deficit was erased during an electric first half. However, the momentum shifted after the break, as Atletico regained control and ultimately secured a 3-2 aggregate victory, ending the Catalans’ European hopes.

Yamal’s influence was evident from the opening seconds, as he tested the goalkeeper almost immediately before finding the net. His energy and creativity helped Hansi Flick’s side push to the brink of a famous turnaround, but the effort proved insufficient in the end.

As the match wore on, fatigue crept in, and control slipped away. The host capitalized on key moments, and a late red card further complicated Barcelona’s task, sealing a defeat that will linger.

What did Lamine Yamal say on social media?

In the aftermath, Yamal addressed the defeat with a message that reflected both realism and ambition. “We gave it our all, but it wasn’t enough. This is just part of the journey: to reach the top, you have to climb, and we know it won’t be easy, nor will they make it easy for us. But giving up is not an option.”

His words struck a balance between acknowledging the setback and reinforcing belief in the future. The tone suggested a player already thinking beyond the immediate disappointment. The 18-year-old’s message did not stop at reflection, as he also looked ahead with determination.

“We have plenty of reasons to be hopeful, and we’re going to go all out for them. Every mistake is a lesson, and rest assured, we’ll learn from each one.” He then delivered a statement that resonated deeply with supporters. “We are Barca, and we’ll be back where we belong. My parents taught me that a man’s word is his bond… and we’ll bring that to Barcelona.”

Moment of maturity despite disappointment

What stood out after the final whistle was not frustration, but composure. Instead of retreating into disappointment, Yamal remained on the pitch, moving from teammate to teammate in a show of support.

The image of the 18-year-old consoling others, including more experienced players, captured a different kind of leadership. It was a clear sign of maturity, as he chose unity over individual frustration in a difficult moment.

Following the tight result in the first leg, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are preparing to face off in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals. As a result, fans are closely monitoring the status of Kylian Mbappé, as his presence could be decisive in front of goal.

Despite being inferior for much of the first leg, Real Madrid still hold hope of overturning the result against Bayern Munich, as they trail by just one goal. Given the narrow scoreline, both sides expect a contested game, with an offensive approach dominating. Moreover, fans are closely monitoring the status of Kylian Mbappé as his presence could prove in the Champions League Quarterfinals.

After avoiding injuries in recent matches, Kylian Mbappé is in peak physical condition. Because of this, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will start the Frenchman, hoping his scoring impact will help overturn the result. In addition, he was decisive in the first leg, so another standout performance is expected. With this, he could look to silence the criticism surrounding his season, which has otherwise been impressive.

Alongside the Frenchman, Real Madrid will once again rely on the partnership with Vinícius Jr. However, the absence of Aurélien Tchouaméni due to yellow card accumulation will force adjustments in the starting lineup, such as deploying Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde at the base of midfield. As a result, Brahim Díaz could take on a key role, aiming to exploit spaces in the opposition’s midfield.

Bayern Munich will also have most of their squad available, with Harry Kane and Manuel Neuer returning to top form. After dominating in the first leg, coach Vincent Kompany may opt not to make changes to his starting lineup, as he confirmed that Serge Gnabry is fit enough to play 120 minutes if needed. In addition, Konrad Laimer and Josip Stanišić could once again play key roles, contributing to the team’s build-up play.

Bayern Munich predicted lineups vs Real Madrid

After their dominant performance in the first leg, Bayern Munich face Real Madrid as clear favorites. Coach Vincent Kompany will be without Lennart Karl and Sven Ulreich. However, the German side will rely on Kane, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, and Neuer as their core, maintaining their consistency. Despite this, they will face a tough challenge in defending space in behind, as Mbappé and Vinícius could use their pace to make the difference.

The German side could lineup as follows: Manuel Neuer; Josip Stanišić, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Konrad Laimer; Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlović; Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Luis Díaz; Harry Kane.

Real Madrid lineups vs Bayern Munich

Although they didn’t dominate the first leg, Real Madrid managed to be quite efficient, thanks to Kylian Mbappé. However, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be forced to make changes to his lineup, as Aurelien Tchouameni will be out due to yellow card accumulation. As a result, they will start Valverde as a defensive midfielder. Following that, Arda Guler and Brahim will be responsible for linking the midfield and the attack.

With this in mind, Real Madrid will play as follows: Andriy Lunin; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy; Brahim Diaz, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler; Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappé.

The road to the 2026 World Cup was always expected to test France in new ways, but few imagined that Hugo Ekitike would become the center of a devastating late setback just weeks before the tournament.

The road to the 2026 World Cup was always expected to test France in new ways, but few imagined that Hugo Ekitike would become the center of a devastating late setback just weeks before the tournament. France will enter driven by the scars of the 2022 final, where it fell short in a dramatic clash that still lingers in memory.

Ranked third in the world and placed on a favorable path in the bracket, the national team once again looks like a serious contender aiming for a third world title. With stars like 2018 World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and 2025 Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele leading the charge, belief inside the camp remains strong.

The national team arrives with a blend of experience and attacking firepower that few can match. N’Golo Kante has returned to orchestrate play from midfield, while the defensive core brings years of elite European experience into the tournament. This generation believes it has unfinished business on the world stage, especially after coming so close in Qatar.

That confidence has now been shaken by a major setback. Ekitike suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during a Champions League clash between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, an injury that immediately raised fears about his availability.

The devastating blow confirmed

The uncertainty surrounding the striker has soon turned into confirmation of the worst possible outcome. “Carried off on a stretcher… Hugo Ekitike suffered a rupture of his right Achilles tendon,” reported L’Equipe, leaving little room for optimism. As per the report, the injury immediately rules him out of the 2026 World Cup and potentially sidelines him for seven to nine months.

The incident occurred during a high-stakes clash between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, where the striker collapsed without contact. “It doesn’t look good for Hugo. It’s especially difficult for him because you never want to get injured, especially at this time of the season,” admitted the Reds’ boss Arne Slot, reflecting the mood inside the club.

What this means for France’s tactical setup

France’s attacking structure has been one of its greatest strengths, blending pace, creativity, and finishing quality. Ekitike had emerged as a valuable option, contributing 17 goals in 45 appearances at club level and earning his place in the national team setup. His absence forces the coaching staff to rethink rotations and attacking combinations ahead of the tournament.

Despite the setback, France still enters the competition with strong depth and experience. The team remains on a favorable path in the tournament draw, avoiding early clashes with giants like Spain and Argentina. However, maintaining squad fitness and adapting to injuries will now be even more critical for Didier Deschamps and his squad.

Who steps into the spotlight?

Since it’s safe to say that Ekitike is officially ruled out, attention now turns to who could fill the void in the national team. According to Le Parisien, Randal Kolo Muani has emerged as the leading candidate to take his place, largely due to the trust he maintains within the coaching staff. His international experience could prove decisive despite mixed club form.

Other options remain firmly in contention. Christopher Nkunku offers versatility and technical quality, while Jean-Philippe Mateta has impressed with his efficiency in limited appearances for the national team. Each brings a different profile, leaving the final decision open as the tournament approaches.

Al Nassr host Al Ittifaq in Matchday 29 of the 2025/2026 Saudi Pro League season. Discover everything you need to watch the game, including kickoff times and full broadcast information for TV and streaming in the United States.

Match Overview

League leaders Al Nassr enter this matchup determined to keep their grip on first place, riding strong form and relying on the firepower of Cristiano Ronaldo to extend their winning run. Standing in their way is Al Ittifaq, currently seventh with 42 points, a side eager to turn an inconsistent campaign into a defining moment with a marquee upset.

With the title contenders focused on maintaining momentum and the underdogs hungry to disrupt the race, this showdown shapes up as a must-watch battle—be sure to tune in and catch every minute of the action.

Former Italian striker Antonio Cassano argues he was more ‘creative’ than Francesco Totti and had more physicality than Roberto Baggio: ‘But I never reached my prime.’

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Former Serie A star Cassano released some bold statements in his latest appearance on the Viva El Football podcast, which he hosts alongside Daniele Adani and Nicola Ventola.

Cassano: I was ‘more creative’ than Totti

A follower asked Cassano whether, in his prime, he was better than legendary strikers Baggio, Del Piero and Totti, and he replied without hesitation: “In my prime, absolutely yes; even though I never actually reached it in my career or in my life. I like myself much more,” he said via FcInter1908.

“Baggio was brilliant; Totti was the greatest No.10 in the history of Italian football; Del Piero was a phenomenal player, but if I had reached 100%, I would have been stronger than all three.

“What did I have more than Totti? I was more creative, more physical than Baggio and more of everything than Del Piero. He scored more than I, but I’m talking about my prime,” he added.

“If I had done what I was meant to, I would have had no rivals. Goals don’t tell the whole story. I was something else.”

Cassano scored 112 goals and provided 100 assists in 400 Serie A appearances with Bari, Roma, Sampdoria, Milan, Inter and Parma.

He also played for Real Madrid but managed only four goals and three assists in 29 appearances.

The former striker scored 10 goals in 39 appearances for the Italy national team, helping the team reach the Euro 2012 Final.

Del Piero and Totti won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, while Baggio finished 3rd with the Azzurri at Italia ’90, 2nd at USA ’94, and was knocked out in the quarter-finals at France ’98.

 

Paolo Vanoli says Fiorentina are doing ‘everything we can’ to recover Moise Kean for a Conference League game against Crystal Palace, where the Tuscans will need ‘courage’ and ‘heads free’ to try to overturn a three-goal deficit.

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Fiorentina host Crytal Palace at the Stadio Franchi on Thursday night in the second leg of the Conference League quarter-finals.

The Tuscans suffered a 3-0 loss in the reverse fixture played in England last week, but hope to see Italy international Kean return to action tomorrow: “We are trying to recover him; we are doing everything we can, including double training sessions with the player,” Fiorentina coach Vanoli told Sky Sport.

“He is keen to try to help us in this final part of the season. It’s a problem that has somewhat interrupted what he did last year, but thanks to the group, we have been able to make up for the absence of an important player.”

Kean has missed the last two games for Fiorentina, including the reverse fixture at Selhurst Park last week.

Fiorentina spent most of the season in the Serie A drop zone, but bounced back in recent months and are now eight points above the bottom three.

On Monday, they secured a crucial 1-0 win over Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio.

“It was the most important league win of the season, for the group and for how we approached it, especially given all the absences we had,” Vanoli said.

“There were three important points, knowing they bring us closer to something extraordinary, numbers in hand. Now, however, we need to keep our feet on the ground and go to Lecce, thinking we still have to earn the points we need.”

Vanoli is under contract with Fiorentina until the end of the season and his future at the Stadio Franchi is far from certain.

“I’ve been in football for many years, I know how it works, and I move on,” he said.

“I have to look at what we are doing and what the numbers are saying.”

Surely, however, Vanoli would love to remain at the Franchi beyond the summer.

“Absolutely, when I do something, I want to keep going with it,” he insisted.

“The club has always given me trust, and I know the esteem they have for me. I have to look at the present and finish what we started, which may seem little, but is actually a lot.”

During his pre-match press conference, Vanoli shifted his focus on the upcoming European game against Palace, highlighting the approach he expects from his players: “With head free and knowing that we’ll need a feat. Sometimes, for these things, you don’t need technique, but the desire to do something that goes beyond, with courage and with our heads free,” he said via TMW.

“We’ll have to take risks to try to dream. I’m sorry I don’t have the full squad available. Substitutions are helpful, but against Lazio, we proved we are a proper team.

“We know Crystal Palace are one of the favourites to win the Conference League,” continued the Fiorentina coach.

“They got to this game after a comeback against Newcastle, who have a complete team.

“I showed the lads the opening 30 minutes before the penalty kick. It’s not true that we didn’t play well. I think we paid a high price for incidents in which we lacked attention. This must serve as a lesson on how to become a top side. We were unlucky in the draw, but it’s nice because strong opponents make you grow. When you don’t win, you learn.”

• Read more – Mandragora sends warning to Crystal Palace: ‘We believe in the miracle’

Jonathan David has had an opportunity to discuss the criticism he has received in his first season at Juventus, has put to bed any rumours that he hasn’t settled in the dressing room and says that the Old Lady are ‘under more scrutiny than any other club in Italy’. 

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David on Juventus struggles, false rumours and failed panenka penalty attempt

The Canada international, who joined Juventus on a free transfer after five successful seasons with Lille in Ligue 1, spoke to TSN in his homeland after what has been a fairly underwhelming first campaign in Serie A. 

David has made 30 appearances in Serie A this term, but has only started 17 times and is only on five league goals for the season, four of which came in a run of five games in January. For reference, David averaged 17.4 league goals per season during his time in France and never scored fewer than 13 in the league during his five seasons with Lille. 

“For me, I think it’s been up and down. I came to a new club with high hopes, high expectations and obviously I wasn’t scoring as regularly as I wanted to,” David told TSN when asked how he thinks his 2025-26 season has gone. 

He feels that playing for a club the size of Juventus also opens players up to wider criticism: “Juventus is the club that is under more scrutiny than any other club in Italy, there’s all these eyes on you and obviously people will talk.” 

There had been rumours earlier in the season that David had not settled into the dressing room at Continassa, and there were some reports that the players had stopped inviting him out to team dinners. 

Head coach Luciano Spalletti had to step in to put the story to bed, joking that the first time David was invited out for dinner with his teammates, he committed the Italian sin of grating parmesan cheese over seafood pasta, which is why his Italian colleagues, supposedly, didn’t take him out again. 

David insists that these rumours were not true in the slightest. 

“I don’t know how or why that rumour came out but obviously I know it wasn’t true because I’m in the dressing room with these guys, we get along very well,” he said. 

David also faced criticism after making a mess of an attempted panenka from the penalty spot in a 1-1 draw with Lecce, which ended up costing Juventus a precious two points. 

“I knew what I wanted to do, it didn’t come off right. After that game there was a lot of talk about the way I kicked the penalty, why it was me doing it.”

It was immediately after the Lecce game that David went on his run of scoring four times in five Serie A matches: “It was a very special moment for myself and I think for the team also,” he said. 

“Maybe sometimes people don’t understand you, people don’t really know you so they tend to judge you but that doesn’t really matter because you have people that are close to you, who care for you, who understand the way you are so I’m not really worried about that.” 

PSG star Marquinhos is grateful to Italy and Serie A, saying that his former Roma coach, Zdeněk Zeman, forced him to ‘get out of my comfort zone.’

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PSG’s Marquinhos qualified for the Champions League semifinals on Tuesday following a 2-0 away win at Liverpool.

The ex-Roma defender, who played for the Giallorossi in the 2012-13 campaign, spoke to Sky Sport Italia after the match, recalling his only season in Serie A.

Marquinhos: Roma ‘meant a lot’ to me

“I only spent one season in Italy, but it opened the door to Europe for me and meant a lot,” he said, in perfect Italian.

“I had a coach, Zeman. He likes fast defenders who understand the timing: when the ball is covered, when it’s uncovered, and how to execute offside. It taught me so much, and it forced me to get out of my comfort zone, where I was in Brazil, where I was much more comfortable. It taught me so much.

“Here [at PSG], I played with many players who had been in Italy, who helped me understand the tactics and the play. Thiago Silva, Maxwell, Thiago Motta, and many others who passed a lot on to me. So, I’m always grateful to Italy.”

Roma finished 6th in the 2012-13 campaign, and Zeman was sacked after round 23, replaced by Aurelio Andreazzoli until the end of the campaign.

Marquinhos commented on PSG’s win over Liverpool, answering a question from Fabio Capello, one of the Sky Sport Italia pundits, who asked the Brazilian whether Mohamed Salah’s introduction in the second half somehow concerned the Ligue 1 giants.

“I think they had nothing to lose in the second half. They had to use their strength, which is physicality, and played many long balls on the wings to win the second ball,” Marquinhos replied.

“But we are aware of our strengths and weaknesses, so we didn’t want to bring the game where they wanted, corner kicks, first ball, second ball, and we defended smartly. Even if it’s not our main strength, we must be able to defend and take on the pain in these tough moments. Don’t concede and be able to suffer to make the most of our best moments.”

PSG are the defending Champions League title holders, having beaten Serie A giants Inter 5-0 in the 2024-25 Final.

Under ex-Roma coach Luis Henrique, PSG have once again reached the semis, where they’ll face Bayern Munich or Real Madrid.

 

Interviewed by Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel after Paris Saint-Germain beat Liverpool in the Champions League quarterfinals, on the eve of the 37th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster, the Ligue 1 champions’ president Nasser Al-Khelaifi paid his respects to the victims of that fateful event, and even sent best wishes to Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike […]

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Atletico Madrid edged their way into the Champions League semi-finals despite going down 2-1 to a resurgent Barcelona on Tuesday. Trailing 2-0 from last week’s first leg, the Blaugrana, who ended the contest at the Metropolitano with 10 men, fought back bravely, but Ademola Lookman’s goal was enough to seal a 3-2 aggregate win for […]

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Rolando Mandragora is aware that Fiorentina need a ‘perfect game’ to overturn their 3-0 deficit against Crystal Palace in the second leg of their Conference League quarter-final tie, but warns the South Londoners that ‘we believe in the miracle’. 

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The Viola will host Palace at the Stadio Franchi at 20.00 BST on Thursday evening, requiring a statement performance to overturn the 3-0 defeat they suffered at Selhurst Park last week. 

Palace are the bookies’ outright favourites to go on and win this season’s Conference League title, but Fiorentina are two-time finalists themselves and are hoping to make amends for what has been a largely disappointing season across the board. 

Mandragora previews Fiorentina vs. Crystal Palace second leg: ‘Difficult, but we believe in it’

“We’ve managed to keep ourselves alive and are still in the running. It will take a big feat but we believe in the miracle,” Mandragora warned during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday (via TMW). 

“We’ve often suffered comebacks in the second leg in the past few years. Now could be the right time to do it ourselves. Of course, we’ll need the perfect game and that Palace will concede against us. It will be difficult, but we believe in it.” 

Mandragora hopes that the support from the home fans at the Stadio Franchi will spur the players on on the night. 

“We can do something special with the support of our fans. We didn’t want to disappoint them with a result like that in the first leg. But for most of the game, the performance was there, there were chances. We’ll try to play our game at home, even if they are strong and complete.” 

Fiorentina are five games unbeaten over in Serie A and are finally starting to look safe from relegation after moving eight points clear of the drop zone after their 1-0 win over Lazio on Monday night. 

“It’s been a one-off year and the celebration the other night was a sort of liberation, even if it’s not over yet,” said Mandragora. 

“We didn’t expect to have a season like this. We started with completely different goals and we needed a lot of humility to change them. It wasn’t obvious we’d be in this situation.” 

Despite the 3-0 defeat at Selhurst Park last week, Mandragora insists that he didn’t feel too much of a difference in quality between the Premier League and the Serie A outfit. 

“I honestly don’t (notice a difference in quality). Of course, the Premier League is elite, as is Serie A with its pros and cons. Every game has its own story and the first leg told us that they were better than us. We’ll see if we’re better than them in the second.” 

 

Cristian Chivu is on course to win the Scudetto in his first full season as a head coach, and reports on Wednesday indicate that a contract extension is now close and that the Romanian will be given more of a say on Inter’s transfer decisions moving forwards. 

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Chivu was given his first senior head coach role with Parma last February, but did enough in his short time in charge to convince Inter into appointing him as the replacement for 2023-24 Scudetto winner and two-time Champions League finalist Simone Inzaghi ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. 

Fast forward 10 months later, Chivu and Inter have a nine-point lead at the top of the Serie A table heading into the final six games of the season and it is now widely expected that the Nerazzurri will go on to claim their 21st league title. 

Multiple outlets in Italy indicate that Chivu will be rewarded with a new and improved contract extension at the end of the season, potentially doubling his €2.5m-per-season salary until 2029 or potentially even 2030. 

Chivu and Inter align on transfer strategy

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Chivu will also have more of a say over Inter’s potential recruits on the transfer market moving forwards. 

Last summer, Chivu had no say at all in two of the five new signings that the club brought in: Deals for Luis Henrique and Petar Sucic were negotiated by the club long before Chivu was appointed head coach. 

Additionally, there were two high-profile players that Chivu attempted to sign last summer, namely former Atalanta star Ademola Lookman, now with Atletico Madrid, and Roma midfielder Manu Kone, but was unsuccessful on both fronts. 

This time around, however, the club and coach plan to be in complete harmony in their decision making and are aiming to provide Chivu with players with profiles that suit his style of play. They are said to be targeting more physically imposing players, particularly in defence and midfield.

Names that have been linked with Inter ahead of the summer transfer window include Kone again, Atalanta’s Marco Palestra and Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic.

 

Bayern Munich are reportedly exploring attacking reinforcements ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, with Brian Brobbey emerging as a player of interest following his encouraging debut campaign in the Premier League.

According to The Independent, the German champions have been closely tracking the Sunderland forward, who has made a positive impression during his first full season in England’s top flight.

At 24 years old, Brobbey represents the type of developing striker Bayern have historically targeted to strengthen squad depth.

With Harry Kane firmly established as the club’s primary goal scorer, Bayern are believed to be seeking reliable competition capable of supporting the England captain while also contributing meaningful minutes across multiple competitions.

Brian Brobbey has made a mark at Sunderland

Brobbey’s journey to the Premier League has been marked by steady development and persistence.

Having previously gained recognition during his time with Ajax, where he demonstrated physical strength and sharp finishing ability.

The Dutchman has scored seven goals for Sunderland in all competitions this season.

His move to Sunderland provided an opportunity to test his abilities in one of the world’s most demanding leagues. Despite the challenges associated with adapting to Premier League football,
Brobbey has shown encouraging signs of growth.

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Can Bayern Munich lure him to the Bundesliga?

Since signing Kane, Bayern Munich have relied heavily on the England international’s goal-scoring consistency.

However, the demands of competing across domestic and European competitions have reinforced the need for additional attacking depth.

Historically, Bayern have maintained strong competition within the squad to ensure sustained performance levels.

The addition of a striker like Brobbey would not only provide cover for Kane but also create tactical flexibility.

Getting Sunderland to part ways with their marquee striker won’t be a walk in the park.

The Black Cats are well aware of his rising stock and will undoubtedly demand a premium fee to sanction his departure, especially knowing the depths of Bayern’s pockets.

The lure of Champions League football and competing for major honors is usually too strong for any player to ignore.

Brobbey would jump at the opportunity to play for a club like Bayern Munich.

Bayern Munich launch audacious pursuit of attacker wanted by Arsenal and Liverpool 

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Manchester United’s search for long-term stability in the dugout appears to be gathering pace, with fresh reports suggesting that club officials have recently reached out to the representatives of Julian Nagelsmann.

According to a source circulating on social media platform X, contact between United and Nagelsmann’s camp was made within the last 24 hours, signaling that the club may be actively exploring alternatives as they evaluate their managerial options ahead of the new season.

While such early-stage communication does not guarantee formal negotiations, it indicates that Man United are carefully assessing potential candidates capable of leading the club into its next phase of development.

The German tactician’s growing reputation across Europe makes him a natural figure of interest for a club aiming to restore consistent success.

Man United are looking for a long term manager

Following a devastating string of domestic results, highlighted by that bitter, humbling defeat to bitter rivals Leeds United, Carrick’s grip on the managerial wheel has looked incredibly shaky.

While the board has reportedly paused any immediate mid-season sackings, reaching out to a heavyweight like Nagelsmann proves they are actively putting out feelers and exploring elite contingency plans.

The ownership group is desperate to implement a modern, progressive footballing identity, and the 38-year-old German fits the INEOS blueprint flawlessly.

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Appointing Nagelsmann comes with challenges

However, pulling off this massive managerial coup won’t be a simple walk in the park.

Nagelsmann is currently at the helm of the German national team, entirely focused on preparing Die Mannschaft for the fast-approaching 2026 World Cup in North America.

This means United’s recent approach is highly likely aimed at testing the waters and securing a pre-agreement for Nagelsmann to officially take over the Old Trafford hot seat once his World Cup campaign concludes in mid-July.

From a purely tactical standpoint, it’s incredibly easy to see why Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his sporting directors are infatuated with the idea.

Nagelsmann is renowned across Europe for his high-octane, fluid pressing systems, the exact brand of aggressive, front-foot football that United fans have been begging to see for years.

Man United closely monitor attacking and defensive duo from Premier League club 

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It’s no secret that focusing on just one competition can be beneficial to a team when it comes to the cut-throat run-in to any given season. That’s simply common sense. Fewer games mean star players can sit out games of lesser importance in order to be in tip-top condition for those that matter. Never has that been more noticeable than at Atletico Madrid in this season’s UEFA Champions League. 

Unlike in recent campaigns when Diego Simeone’s men have been competing alongside both Barcelona and Real Madrid in a quest to win La Liga, this season, Los Rojiblancos are well off the pace and are simply settling for a spot in the top four. But while that may be somewhat of a pessimistic approach, it is also a smart one. Atleti have already secured a spot in the Copa Del Rey final by beating Barca across two legs in the semifinals, and now, they look poised and ready to dump the Blaugrana out of the Champions League as well. 

Atletico Madrid Stun Barcelona 

The Spanish capital’s perceived “second club” headed to Catalonia for the first leg of their quarterfinal in the Camp Nou with the betting odds stacked against them. Some outlets listed them as long as 5/1 to secure the victory against the current runaway La Liga leaders, as well as 25/1 outsiders to win the Champions League outright. But Simeone’s side has never been one to shy away from their underdog status. 

With ‘El Cholo’ heavily rotating his squad domestically in the weeks leading up to the contest, Atletico were fresh and ready for the fight. Barcelona, meanwhile, looked jaded and in need of a rest. And when their highly rated teenage defender Pau Cubarsi was sent off on the stroke of half-time with the game finely poised at 0-0, Simeone and Atleti took full advantage. Julian Alvarez slammed home the resulting free kick to give the visitors the lead, before Alexander Sørloth bundled home to double the lead in the second half. 

Atletico now have a 2-0 lead to defend in the second leg, and they will do so with a fully rested squad, and with history on their side. Los Rojiblancos haven’t lost when hosting the second leg of a Champions League tie in 29 years, let alone by two clear goals. As such, it’s safe to say that those aforementioned betting odds have now swung in their favour. 

Websites allowing soccer betting with Bitcoin now give Atletico a 10/1 shot to win the Champions League this season, less than half of the 25/1 they were ahead of the first leg. As they continue to rest players in La Liga to focus on their continental adventure, those odds will surely shorten further should they make it through to the semifinals. 

Atletico aren’t the first team to see their European efforts benefit from not being involved in a domestic title fight. Here are two other teams that have also followed the same blueprint. 

Chelsea 

When Roman Abramovich took over Chelsea in the summer of 2004, the one trophy he valued above all others was the Champions League. The Blues would reach the semifinals of the competition five times in their first six seasons in charge, even reaching the final for the first time in 2008. Unfortunately for the Russian owner, his West London side lost all of them, with their Premier League fortunes — the club won three league titles throughout the same time frame — costing them dearly on the continental stage. 

By 2012, the club was in disarray domestically. Out of league contention by the new year, interim manager Roberto Di Matteo — appointed following the disastrous tenure of Andre Villas-Boas — immediately prioritised the Champions League above all other competitions. The decision paid dividends. 

While Chelsea finished fifth in the Premier League, they would go on to lift the famous big-eared trophy for the first time, beating both Barcelona in the semi-finals and Bayern Munich — on their home turf — in the final in fairytale fashion. And nine years later, history would repeat itself, as Thomas Tuchel led a Blues team that finished fourth in the Premier League to a second-ever Champions League crown. 

AC Milan 

Carlo Ancelotti’s AC Milan were arguably the Champions League’s dominant force throughout the 2000s. They reached three finals in five seasons between 2003 and 2007, winning two of them. On none of those runs to European football’s showpiece fixture, however, did they win Serie A. In fact, they barely even competed for the Scudetto. 

In the 2002/03 season, the Rossoneri finished third in the Italian top flight, a whopping 11 points behind Juventus. However, the Bianconeri were forced to continually play stars such as Alessandro Del Piero and David Trezeguet week after week as they looked to pip Inter to the title. Don Carlo, meanwhile, was able to rest his key men, and that was the crucial difference maker as his side beat Juve in the Old Trafford final. 

Two years later, Milan would reach the final once again, and once again, they were never truly in Scudetto contention, finishing seven points behind Juve. Still, the likes of Kaka and Andriy Shevchenko — who were well-rested — powered them to the Champions League final, and it looked as though they would once again lift the trophy when they raced into a 3-0 halftime lead against Liverpool in Istanbul. Unfortunately for them, they would fall victim to one of football’s greatest ever miracles as the Reds mounted a comeback for the ages. But still, the blueprint of prioritising Europe over domestic matters shone through. 

In 2007, the agony of that Istanbul collapse would end as Milan met Liverpool once again in the final, this time in Athens. This time around, the Rossoneri finished a whopping 36 points behind cross-city rivals Inter as they finished fourth in Serie A. But their domestic woes were irrelevant when Filippo Inzaghi’s brilliant brace downed the Reds in the Greek capital to claim the European Cup yet again. Nearly two decades on, Atletico Madrid look to follow in those illustrious footsteps. 

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Raphinha believes that bad refereeing decisions across their Champions League quarter-final tie with Atletico Madrid robbed his team of a spot in the final four. Barcelona were eliminated from the competition despite winning Tuesday’s second leg 2-1 at the Metropolitano, with Ademola Lookman’s 31st-minute strike proving decisive. Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres had wiped out […]

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Diego Simeone is still astonished by the competitive edge his Atletico Madrid team can find after they saw off Barcelona in the Champions League. Atletico lost the quarter-final second leg 2-1 at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, but Ademola Lookman’s strike proved enough for them to seal a 3-2 aggregate victory. Simeone’s Atletico have reached the […]

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Verdict: Bruno Fernandes over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 5/6 Bookmaker: Dachbet With all eyes falling on Stamford Bridge this weekend, Chelsea will welcome historic rivals Manchester United to west London. Chelsea Starting with the hosts, while Chelsea might have enjoyed an immediate boost following Liam Rosenior’s shock arrival back in January, the Blues […]

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Liverpool must “sell to buy” this coming summer, but Arne Slot is sure the club are braced for the challenge. The Reds’ disappointing season continued with a 4-0 aggregate defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, sealed by a 2-0 loss at Anfield. Liverpool have lost five games in a single Champions League campaign […]

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The post ´We have to sell to buy´ – Slot warns of tough summer for Liverpool appeared first on Soccer News.

Wednesday’s reports claim that Juventus are interested in potential deals for two Italian left-backs in Lorenzo Bernasconi and Leonardo Spinazzola in the event that Andrea Cambiaso, who has been linked with a potential Premier League move, leaves the club this summer. 

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Juventus could reshuffle left side of defence in summer transfer window

According to reports from Tuttosport, Premier League interest in Cambiaso is hotting up again. The Italy international has on several previous occasions been linked with a move to Manchester City, and now, according to Wednesday’s update, there is interest from Spain and from Milan in Italy as well. 

Juventus had previously cited an asking price of €60m for Manchester City, but this figure could potentially be as low as €40m during the next summer transfer window. 

In the event that Cambaiso does leave in the summer, Tuttosport claims that Juventus could replace him with two relatively affordable options. 

The first is Atalanta’s Bernasconi, who has established himself as a regular Serie A starter for La Dea in the second half of the 2025-26 season, and has also started in 10 Champions League matches this campaign. 

The 22-year-old has been described as an ‘experienced project player’, i.e. one with room to improve but still with a decent level of exposure at the highest level of the game. Wednesday’s report claims that Juventus could strike a deal for a fee in the region of €20m for Bernasconi, who cost Atalanta around €1m to sign from Cremonese in 2024. 

Additionally, Juventus could also make a potential move for the 33-year-old Spinazzola, whose contract with Napoli is due to expire at the end of the season. The Italy international was also linked with a potential move to Milan earlier this week.

Inter and Italy legend Sandro Mazzola believes Alessandro Bastoni should not even consider a move to Barcelona and hopes Lautaro Martinez remains at San Siro forever.

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Former Inter and Italy star Mazzola advises Bastoni against joining Barcelona.

The Italian centre-back is said to be eager to join the Catalans in the summer, even though formal talks between the two clubs haven’t even started.

According to Italian sources, one reason for Bastoni’s potential exit over the summer is the hostile reception he receives at Italian stadiums following an incident that led to a red card for Pierre Kalulu during Inter-Juventus in February.

Mazzola: Bastoni should not join Barcelona from Inter

“What has he done that’s so serious? Mistakes can happen; every player on every team makes them, but only Inter players get this kind of treatment,” Mazzola told Gazzetta.

“The only thing I can say to him is: keep your head up and get back to work straight away.”

Asked on whether Bastoni should consider leaving Inter, the Nerazzurri legend replied: “Where should he go? Milan is even more beautiful than Barcelona. If Luisito [Suarez] were still around, he would have confirmed that too.”

Mazzola went on to say that Italian players in the Inter team “excite” him, “even though we failed to qualify for the World Cup, and that’s a huge pain,” he noted.

“Not so much for me, since I’ve played and seen many of them, but for my grandchildren, who can’t dream like kids used to. This time we were a bit unlucky, especially our Inter defender [Bastoni].”

Just as he hopes Bastoni, who is contracted with Inter until 2028, won’t leave the club in the summer, Mazzola wishes that Lautaro Martinez would stick around until the end of his career.

“We can only hope he stays with us for life,” the 70-year-old concluded.

Argentines sometimes want to return home, but Lautaro shouldn’t get any strange ideas. In time, he’ll surpass Altobelli in the number of goals, and just getting close to Meazza would already be an incredible achievement.”

 

Wednesday’s reports claim that Roma star Paulo Dybala is keen to play for Milan under his former Juventus head coach Massimiliano Allegri, and that La Joya could potentially be one of several new arrivals to reshuffle the Rossoneri attack. 

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Reports Milan could reshuffle attack with Dybala and either Lewandowski or Vlahovic

Wednesday’s reports from Corriere della Sera (via Calciomercato.com) claim that Milan could reshape their attacking department during the summer transfer window and that Dybala could potentially be a part of it, but this still depends on several varying factors. 

Firstly, Milan need to make a decision on Rafael Leao, who has struggled to reach the same heights in 2025-26 as he has done in previous seasons, despite being the club’s top scorer in Serie A this season (with 9) and their joint-top scorer across all competitions (with 10, along with Christian Pulisic). 

This is partly due to a pubalgia issue that has impacted Leao’s fitness, as well as the fact that he has most regularly been playing as a striker in a 3-5-2 as opposed to a left winger in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1. 

Certain Rossoneri supporters have grown impatient with the Portugal international, who was loudly booed during the team’s recent 3-0 loss at home against Udinese. Wednesday’s reports claim that Milan could consider a sale this summer, and while an exact transfer fee has not been specified, it is certain that Leao’s €175m release clause will not be met. 

If Leao is to leave, Milan would be left needing to reinvest in their attacking unit. 

Firstly, a more traditional centre-forward is being sought ahead of the summer transfer window, regardless of Leao’s future. Robert Lewandowski, available on a free transfer at the end of his Barcelona contract, has been linked with a move to San Siro, while Milan are reportedly still monitoring the situation between Juventus and Dusan Vlahovic. 

Also out of contract at the end of the 2025-26 season is Dybala, whose future with Roma remains uncertain at this stage. 

Calciomercato reports that Dybala has not received confirmation either way as to whether his Roma contract will be extended or allowed to expire, but that he is already beginning to receive offers within Europe and South America. 

Wednesday’s report claims that Dybala is not opposed to the idea of staying on with Roma, even with a reduction in salary, but that he also has options in Argentina, Brazil and potentially in Italy as well. 

If his time with Roma were to come to an end this summer, Dybala would reportedly prefer to stay in Europe and ideally in Italy. 

This is where Milan comes back in, as Dybala is said to be keen on the idea of reuniting with his former Juventus head coach, Allegri, at Milan. La Joya had also been linked with a potential move to San Siro before joining Roma at the end of his stay with the Old Lady. 

As the 32-year-old has been hampered by injuries, especially over the last two seasons, it has also been reported that he would be ‘willing’ to accept a performance-based contract, i.e. one that depends on appearances and goal contributions. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport calls Matteo Ruggeri ‘heroic’ after Atlético Madrid’s aggregate win over Barcelona, which sent the Colchoneros to the Champions League semi-finals.

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Ruggeri’s Atlético Madrid suffered a 2-1 home defeat to domestic rivals Barcelona in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday, but still managed to progress to the semis with a 3-2 aggregate victory.

Italy international Ruggeri played the full game, emerging as one of the best players on the field at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Praise for Ruggeri as Atletico Madrid knock Barcelona out of Champions League

La Gazzetta dello Sport rated Ruggeri 7/10, the same as Antoine Griezmann and ex-Atalanta star Ademola Lookman, only behind his teammates Marcos Llorente and Kone and Barça’s star Yamal (7.5).

“The man from Bergamo had to deal with that demon on Lamine Yamal once again. And he did,” wrote Gazzetta.

“Bloodied and, in the end, heroic.”

Ruggeri was elbowed by Barcelona midfielder Gavi in the final minutes, leaving him with a bleeding head wound and forcing the Italian to finish the match wearing a bandage.

Ruggeri, 23, is in his first season at Atlético Madrid, where he has collected seven assists in 39 appearances across all competitions.

Ruggeri was called up to the Italy national team only once, during the March break in 2025, and has yet to make his senior Azzurri debut, despite playing 16 games with Italy U21.

Fabio Capello believes that Antonio Conte is primed and ready to re-claim the Italy national team job, but feels that the need to adapt to international management would not put off Massimiliano Allegri either. 

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Conte and Allegri are the two leading candidates to take over as Italy national team head coach following the recent resignation of Gennaro Gattuso. Italy are still without an FIGC President as well, with elections scheduled for June 22, and so a decision on the next CT is not expected to arrive before a new head of the football association is in place. 

Despite the uncertainties regarding the leadership of the Italian FA, there are two main candidates for the Italy head coach role, and Fabio Capello, speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, has given his thoughts on both. 

Capello on the next Italy CT: ‘Conte knows what awaits him, Allegri is intelligent’

One of the benefits in appointing Conte is the fact that he has already held the Italy head coach role between 2014 and 2016. 

“That would be a plus point for him,” says Capello. “If he returns to the Azzurri dugout, he would already know what awaits him, even though the scenario has changed compared to 10 years ago.

“It’s practically impossible to get worse than this, we’ve hit rock bottom.” 

For Allegri, however, it would be a first step into international football. 

“You don’t have the daily relationship with the players,” Capello warned. “And that’s not trivial, you have less control over what happens during the season. From injuries to the form of various players, you experience everything from the outside until the players are in training camp at Coverciano.”

But does Capello feel that this would be an issue should Allegri take over the Italy job? 

“I don’t think so, it would just be different. As I said, Max is intelligent and would quickly understand how to go about it. It would still clearly be a novelty for him at the beginning, while for Antonio it would not. 

“Allegri, on the other hand, has something more in terms of communication. Conte has been less diplomatic on some occasions in the past.” 

Capello believes that Conte did a decent job with the Italy national team during his time in charge between 2014 and 2016, but feels that the players he had available back then were of a slightly higher standard than the current crop of Azzurri representatives. 

“He definitely had a European championship that was up to par, but there were also some different players available,” Capello said, referring to the likes of Gianluigi Buffon, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli. 

“And there is no longer a real block of a (club) team in the national side. We have some from Inter, but it’s not as large as we’ve had in the past.” 

This is not the first time that Capello has mentioned the need for a ‘block’ of players who play for the same club to be deployed in the Italy team. 

“Look, the first piece of advice I would give to any coach: You need to create a base of players immediately, possibly focusing on ‘blocking’ a team from the national league.” 

Capello feels that this is easier said than done, though, given the lack of opportunities handed to Italian players in Serie A at the moment. 

“I know it well, our current difficulties stem from here. The level of Italian players has dropped and even the clubs are struggling. So for a recruiter, this is a very complicated task.” 

Capello himself was once offered the Italy national team job but turned down the opportunity: “I received the Azzurri offer, but at the moment I didn’t feel like it and so I refuse. 

“The national team is a matter of feeling and responsibility, and if at that precise moment I didn’t feel I could make myself available and it would have been wrong to do it and accept.

“The Italy job is not to be taken or rejected for the logic of convenience. It’s something you have to feel inside, because when the anthem starts, you are representing your country and you’re not ‘just’ at the service of a club like with other jobs. So I can’t suggest anything either way, it’s all strictly personal.” 

Altay Bayindir seems to have finally reached his absolute breaking point at Manchester United.

With the summer transfer window peeking around the corner, the Turkish international is reportedly plotting his escape route from Old Trafford.

According to Fanatik, the 28-year-old shot-stopper has officially agreed on personal terms with Istanbul giants Besiktas, setting the stage for a highly dramatic return to his homeland.

When Bayindir arrived in Manchester back in the summer of 2023, he knew he was stepping into a challenging environment.

However, he probably didn’t expect to be quite this starved for minutes. Throughout his tenure at the club, the goalkeeper has been a back up option for the Premier League side.

Altay Bayindir has struggled to impress at Man United

First he played second fiddle to Andre Onana and this season he has been the back up for Senne Lammens.

For a goalkeeper of Bayindir’s pedigree and ambition, sitting on the bench week in and week out just isn’t sustainable, especially when he is desperate to maintain his standing within the Turkish national team setup.

Before his big-money move to England, Bayindir was the captain and a beloved figure at Fenerbahce.

Moving back to the Turkish league to join Besiktas is a massive, highly controversial move that will undoubtedly dominate the sports pages in Turkey.

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Besiktas move could revive the goalkeeper’s career

Besiktas have been actively hunting for a commanding, top-tier presence between the sticks, and scooping up a homegrown star who is incredibly hungry to prove himself is a clever piece of business.

Man United would have to step into the market again to sign a new back-up goalkeeper to replace the Turkish star.

While personal terms are reportedly all wrapped up and the player is keen, there is still some serious boardroom negotiating left to do.

Man United and Besiktas now have to sit down and thrash out an agreeable transfer fee.

Given that United only paid around £4.3 million (€5m) to bring him to the Premier League originally, they will likely be looking to simply recoup their initial investment.

Man United closely monitor attacking and defensive duo from Premier League club 

The post Personal terms agreed: Man United outcast close to ending Old Trafford nightmare appeared first on CaughtOffside.

It’s the news every Liverpool and France fan has been absolutely dreading.

fter Hugo Ekitike was forced off the pitch in clear agony during that miserable Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, the collective mood around Anfield was incredibly bleak.

A fresh update has just emerged straight from Ekitike’s family camp, and it’s an absolute heartbreaker for the young forward.

The French attacker went down against PSG in the Champions League, holding his lower leg in agony.

He was replaced by Mohamed Salah in the Champions League quarterfinal and it became clear straight away Ekitike has suffered a serious blow.

Ekitike injury update confirmed by his family

According to journalist Lassana Camara, close members of Ekitike’s family have sadly confirmed the harsh reality of the situation.

While Liverpool’s medical team is still finalising the extent of the injury, the family’s inner circle reportedly relayed to French media that the 23-year-old striker has suffered a severe knee injury, widely believed to be a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

He is expected to undergo surgery in the coming days, meaning his 2025/26 campaign is officially over in the blink of an eye.

The journalist reported:

“Hugo Ekitike is out for the rest of the season + the World Cup!

“No Achilles tendon rupture, however, all of this confirmed by his family.”

For Arne Slot and Liverpool, this is basically the final nail in the coffin of a genuinely disastrous week.

Losing your top scorer, a guy who has been the absolute focal point of the attack with 11 crucial league goals this term, at the most critical juncture of the season is a catastrophic blow.

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A massive loss for Liverpool and France national team

Ekitike’s injury would not only have consequences this season but it could also alter Liverpool’s summer transfer window plans.

Although they still have Alexander Isak at the club, who is struggling with fitness issues of his own, the Merseyside club might look to add more depth in the attacking department.

As for Ekitike, he would most likely miss the World Cup for France which is a blow to the French and the striker’s ambitions.

issing out on the biggest tournament on the planet when you are arguably in the form of your life is the kind of bad luck that makes you feel bad for the Liverpool star.

Hopefully, he bounces back even stronger next season, but for now, it’s just a massively bitter pill to swallow for the player, his club, and his country.

“I think..” – Ibrahima Konate issues worrying update on Liverpool teammate Ekitike

The post ‘Confirmed by his family’ – Journalist issues update on Ekitike injury from his family appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus could find himself at the center of transfer speculation this summer, with reports suggesting the Brazilian striker is willing to consider potential offers should interest arise.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the 29-year-old recently changed representation, a move that often signals preparation for key career decisions, although his immediate focus remains on finishing the current season strongly with the Gunners.

Jesus remains under contract at Arsenal until 2027, giving the club a strong position in any negotiations.

However, with Arsenal continuing to refine their attacking options and explore potential new signings, the coming transfer window could present opportunities for both player and club to reassess their long-term plans.

Change of agent signals at possible move for Jesus

Romano has reported that Jesus’ new representation could open the door to fresh discussions regarding his future, even though no formal move is currently underway.

Since joining Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022, Jesus has been an important figure in Mikel Arteta’s tactical system.

However, injuries have disrupted his rhythm in recent seasons, limiting his ability to deliver consistent goal-scoring numbers.

Also, the arrival of Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres at the club has limited the playing time that Jesus used to get at the club.

The Brazilian attacker has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium and that could force him to look at other options in the market.

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Arsenal transfer strategy could influence the decision of Jesus

Arsenal are widely expected to strengthen their forward line in the summer, particularly as the club seeks a reliable, high-output striker capable of delivering consistently in major competitions.

Although they have Gyokeres has who impressed this season but they are still being linked with new attackers to lead their attack.

One such name is Atletico Madrid attacker Julian Alvarez, who according to our exclusive today, remains high at the wishlist for Arteta and his management.

If Arsenal do bring in a new striker, it could affect Jesus’ role within the squad.

While his versatility remains a significant advantage, allowing him to operate across the front line, increased competition could prompt both player and club to evaluate the most suitable path forward.

Arsenal ready to sign 22-year-old La Liga ace as club sets strict terms for transfer

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Ousmane Dembele’s double propelled Paris Saint-Germain to a 2-0 win over Liverpool and into the Champions League semi-finals. Under-pressure Liverpool boss Arne Slot knew overturning PSG’s 2-0 advantage from the first leg would be a tall order, and two moments of brilliance from Dembele at Anfield saw the European champions win 4-0 on aggregate. Khvicha […]

The post Liverpool 0-2 Paris Saint-Germain (0-4 agg): Dembele double sends Slot´s men crashing out of Champio appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Liverpool 0-2 Paris Saint-Germain (0-4 agg): Dembele double sends Slot´s men crashing out of Champio appeared first on Soccer News.

Antonio Conte continues to be linked with a potential move to re-claim the Italy national team head coach job following the recent resignation of Gennaro Gattuso, and Wednesday’s reports claim that Napoli have four potential candidates lined up to replace last season’s Scudetto winner. 

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Who could become Napoli head coach if Conte leaves to take over Italy job?

Conte along with Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri are the two names at the top of the list of potential replacements for Gattuso as head coach of the Italy national team. There have also been mentions of a potential return for Roberto Mancini and suggestions that ex-Inter head coach Simone Inzaghi could be an option as well. 

The Conte option is picking up traction again, especially after an interview given to The Athletic by Napoli President Auurelio De Laurentiis on Tuesday. 

De Laurentiis claimed that Conte ‘will never abandon me at the last minute’, but urged him to decide sooner rather than later regarding his future in order to allow Napoli enough time to line up an adequate replacement. 

According to reports from the Corriere dello Sport, Napoli’s ideal replacement for Conte in the event that he leaves to take over the Italy job is Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. 

Gasperini had also been a candidate to take over at the Stadio Maradona before Conte was given the job in the summer of 2024. His future at Roma has been put in doubt recently as well, following reports of tension between him and Giallorossi advisor Claudio Ranieri. 

There are three other potential options for Napoli as well according to Wednesday’s reports, including Bologna’s Vincenzo Italiano, Sassuolo’s Fabio Grosso, and a potential return for former head coach Maurizio Sarri, who had the Napoli job between 2015 and 2018 and is currently in his second stint with Lazio.

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

Chivu power 

More weight on the transfer market after the Scudetto 

The Inter coach will sign a renewal to open a new cycle. Salary doubled 

Mazzola, the interview: ‘Deserved title, Lautaro will stay for life and surpass Meazza 

Leao 

Playing them all 

Milan continue ahead with Rafa (despite the whistles) 

The CT race 

Nazionale question 

The Diavolo want to tie Allegri down. De Laurentiis: ‘Conte decide now’ 

Spalletti, here’s Kim again 

Only big names for Juve, the Korean colossal if Bremer goes 

Locatelli signs: 2030

Atletico knock Barca and Yamal out, Super PSG, two goals again in Liverpool

Corriere dello Sport 

Conte changes everything 

De Laurentiis: ‘If he wants to go, say it now’

Antonio is the key | ADL’s interview with The Athletic reopens the discourse on Napoli’s future

A meeting is expected between the President and the ‘coach of miracles’, who will decide whether or not to continue. Gasperini, Italiano, Sarri and Grosso on the list of possible replacements 

Cholo, party with Lookman 

Champions League: Atletico in the semi-finals, Barca out 

Simeone loses 2-1 at home, but the goal from the ex-Atalanta man is enough to get through. Brace from Dembele: PSG win 2-0 again in Liverpool and also make it through. This evening, Real Madrid looking for the turnaround at Bayern Munich’s home (20.00)

From Alisson to Hojbjerg: Spalletti’s list 

Juve’s objectives 

Lucio wants an ‘instant team’ to aim for the Scudetto. Bremer alarms: The €54m clause reachable 

Serie A has lost goals and goalscorers 

782 goals scored 

Only eight in double figures up until now. For the first time in 35 years, the top goalscorer could be won by someone with fewer than 20 (The last was Vialli) 

Tuttosport 

Juve reshape the left 

Bernasconi and Spinazzola if Cambiaso leaves 

Premier League clubs (as well as Milan) interested in the Bianconeri left-back, valued at €40m. They like the 23-year-old from Atalanta and the possibility of signing the Napoli wing-back for free is intriguing. Need €30m to come in in June: From Gatti to Kelly, the players who could save the balance sheet 

Cholo masterpiece, bye-bye Barca

Champions League quarter-final second legs: Dembele freezes Liverpool (0-2), PSG through. 

Atletico in the semi-finals despite defeat: Lookman’s goal decisive after going 2-0 down, Ruggeri heroic. Now it’s Arsenal or Sporting (who kick-off at 1-0). This evening, Real looking for a come-back against Bayern after the 1-2 in Madrid 

Vlasic’s promise: ‘Yes, I’m staying at Toro’ 

Meeting between the fans and the Croatian 

Meanwhile, the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Scudetto also involve D’Aversa: ‘Radice was a hero of mine, he coached me at Monza: A great man’ 

‘Lock yourselves in a room and only come out with reforms’ 

FIGC elections and the new CT, interview with Calentini 

Manchester United remain supportive of Michael Carrick despite a disappointing defeat to Leeds United, with club officials continuing to view him as a strong candidate for the permanent managerial role.

Fabrizio Romano has suggested that the mood inside Old Trafford remains positive regarding Carrick’s leadership, even as speculation links Andoni Iraola with a possible move to Manchester.

The loss to Leeds sparked renewed debate among fans and pundits about United’s long-term managerial direction.

However, internally, the club appears focused on evaluating Carrick’s overall progress rather than judging his performance on a single result.

Michael Carrick faces crucial time at Man United

With Champions League qualification still a major objective, the coming weeks could prove decisive in shaping the future of United’s bench.

On his Youtube channel, Romano reported:

“After the Leeds defeat, which was impacted by the referees, Man Utd remain feeling really positive about Carrick.

“They’re very happy with his attitude, tactical decisions, approach, and the relationship he has with the dressing room.

“They want to be in the UCL next season, so that remains the target for Carrick in the next six games, which is when United will make the decision on the permanent manager.”

The Red Devils have won just one out of their last four games. It is a massive turnaround from how Carrick started his tenure as the interim manager this season.

Despite the setback against Leeds, Man United’s hierarchy are reportedly satisfied with Carrick’s tactical approach, communication style, and relationship with the squad.

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Carrick has done well since replacing Ruben Amorim

Since stepping into the role following the departure of Ruben Amorim, Carrick has been tasked with stabilising performances and guiding the club through a crucial phase of the season and he has done a brilliant job in the role.

Romano has indicated that the club’s internal sentiment toward Carrick remains “really positive,” even after the recent defeat.

United officials are believed to value his calm leadership and the sense of unity he has fostered within the dressing room.

United’s hopes of securing Champions League football are likely to be the defining factor in determining Carrick’s future. Finishing among Europe’s elite would strengthen his position significantly and validate the club’s decision to trust him during a transitional period.

Man United closely monitor attacking and defensive duo from Premier League club

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Liverpool boss Arne Slot has delivered a brutal warning to his underperforming squad: expect a massive summer fire sale, and don’t assume your spot is safe just because you’re considered a “good player.”

Following a string of nightmare results, the honeymoon period at Anfield is officially dead and buried, and management is ready to clean house.

The Reds have been knocked out of the FA Cup by Manchester City and in the Champions League, they have once again been dumped out of the competition by Paris Saint-Germain.

If the European exit wasn’t bad enough, the night was completely overshadowed by a devastating, potentially season-ending injury to star striker Hugo Ekitike.

Nothing is going right for the Merseyside club and this upcoming summer transfer window promises to be crucial for the Premier League side.

Slot explains Liverpool transfer plans for the summer

Slot is reportedly fuming over the miserable return on investment from a squad that has seen a staggering £450 million pumped into it over recent transfer windows.

Behind closed doors, he has essentially told the dressing room that the current standards are utterly unacceptable.

‘That is what we have to play for now in the coming weeks,’ Slot told Amazon Prime. as reported by Daily Mail.

‘The good thing is Alex (Isak) is back, well able to make minutes.

‘Much has been said that the club is in a transition. The club has sold eight or 10 players to make money to sign five or so very talented players. We have to sell to buy.

‘We are losing some players on a free transfer. It is a big challenge in the summer but the club has shown this model works. As I said many times the future looks very good, especially if we can sign players after good players leaving this summer.’

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Big changes are expected at Anfield at the end of the season

While no specific names were named in the fiery post-match media talk, you don’t have to look too hard to spot the potential summer casualties.

Andy Robertson wasn’t offered a new contract and will depart, while Mohamed Salah will also bring an end to his time at the club.

The Liverpool boss has made it clear that the club need to sell players in order to buy new ones. This has been their model for a long time.

Liverpool now face a grueling, high-pressure scramble just to secure Champions League football for next season. But regardless of where they finish in May, one thing is certain, Slot is getting ready to ruthlessly make changes to the squad.

“I think..” – Ibrahima Konate issues worrying update on Liverpool teammate Ekitike

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The Jadon Sancho era at Manchester United is finally coming to an end.

His arrival promised so much but he failed to deliver at the biggest stage. He was sent out on loan to Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea and Aston Villa but none of the moves proved to be beneficial for him and to revive his Man United career.

According to the Mirror, the 26-year-old England winger has his heart completely set on a permanent return to Borussia Dortmund when his Old Trafford contract officially expires this summer.

However, if he wants to reunite with the famous Yellow Wall, he is going to have to accept a seriously drastic wage cut to make the math work.

Man United spell has been a nightmare for Sancho

Sancho’s mega-money move to Manchester back in 2021 just hasn’t worked out for anyone involved.

He originally arrived as one of Europe’s most exciting and explosive creative talents, commanding a staggering £73 million transfer fee and landing a blockbuster contract reportedly worth north of £250,000 a week.

Fast forward five years, and his time in England has been dominated by inconsistent form, off-pitch drama, and heavy stints out of the first-team picture.

Now, with his five-year deal finally running out, United are more than ready to wipe their hands clean and clear his massive salary off their books as a free agent.

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Dortmund are ready to offer him a new career lifeline

While Dortmund would absolutely love to welcome their former golden boy back on a permanent, full-time basis, the German club operates in a completely different financial model compared to the Premier League giants.

They simply cannot, and will not, blow up their wage bill to match the absurd money Sancho has been raking in over in Manchester.

Dortmund’s top brass have made it crystal clear during early background talks, if Sancho wants to wear the black and yellow again, he needs to slash his salary expectations in a major way.

At 26 years old, he should be stepping into his absolute prime. He knows exactly how good he can be in the Bundesliga, an environment that perfectly suits his technical, fluid style of play. But walking away from premium Premier League money is always dificult for players.

Man United closely monitor attacking and defensive duo from Premier League club

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Unai Emery’s side have entered the race to sign highly-rated Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, according to Daily Mail.

With mounting uncertainty surrounding the future of their World Cup-winning number one, Emiliano Martinez, Villa are proactively searching for a long-term successor, and the 23-year-old Englishman has rocketed straight to the top of their wishlist.

Trafford’s current situation at Man City is undeniably frustrating for a player of his immense potential.

After originally progressing through City’s academy and making a name for himself with some incredible shot-stopping displays at Burnley, he made a triumphant return to the Etihad just last summer.

However, the fairytale homecoming was abruptly derailed when Pep Guardiola’s side also pulled off the blockbuster signing of 27-year-old Italian superstar Gianluigi Donnarumma.

James Trafford is looking for more playing time

As a result, Trafford has found himself glued to the bench. Despite recently earning his senior England debut, you can’t expect a 23-year-old with his ceiling to be content playing second fiddle forever.

He’s been limited to barely over 250 league minutes this season, meaning he is widely expected to push for a move this summer in search of the regular first-team football he desperately needs to continue his development.

Over at Villa Park, the pursuit of Trafford makes perfect financial and tactical sense.

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Aston Villa are looking to replace Martinez

Martinez is an absolute club legend, but at 33 years old, there is a growing acceptance that his time in the Midlands might be drawing to a natural conclusion.

The Argentine is one of Villa’s highest earners, and cashing in on him now would provide a massive boost as the club navigates tricky Premier League and UEFA financial and sustainability regulations.

Trafford is a commanding, modern goalkeeper with brilliant distribution skills and excellent reflexes, traits that Emery heavily relies on to build out from the back.

Man City are notorious for driving a hard bargain and will likely demand a hefty fee, potentially upwards of £30 million, to part with a young domestic asset.

However, if Martinez does finally bid farewell to Villa Park this summer, securing a hungry, ready-made replacement like Trafford would be an absolute masterstroke.

Aston Villa prepare offer as Tottenham and Newcastle circle for 26-year-old Dutchman

 

The post Aston Villa target move for Premier League goalkeeper to replace Emi Martinez appeared first on CaughtOffside.

During Liverpool’s massive heavyweight clash against Paris Saint-Germain, the wind was completely sucked out of the stadium when star striker Hugo Ekitike went down with a horrible injury.

Instead of dissecting the tactical battle of a classic European tie, the post-match conversation was purely focused on the 23-year-old’s health and unfortunately, the early signs are incredibly grim.

The French attacker has been in incredible form for the Premier League giants this season.

His injury came as a massive blow to Liverpool’s chances to mount a comeback.

A devastating blow to Liverpool and France

Moreover, his injury looked so serious that questions are being raised about the chances of participation in the World Cup this summer.

Speaking to the media after the final whistle, Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konaté didn’t try to sugarcoat the situation regarding his club teammate and French compatriot.

Looking visibly shaken by what he saw on the pitch, Konaté offered a sobering update.

“I think it’s a bad injury,” the defender admitted to reporters, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.

“I don’t want to talk about that because with the World Cup, all of the things coming this summer, it’s very, very hard for him at this moment. I send him my prayers and everything.”

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Reds are waiting to find more information on the injury

What makes this situation an absolute gut-punch is the timing. Ekitike has been absolutely flying for the Reds this season, cementing himself as the focal point of the attack and leading the club’s scoring charts.

He was practically a guaranteed lock to be selected for Didier Deschamps’ French squad heading to North America for the 2026 World Cup this summer.

To suffer a potentially tournament-ending blow in the middle of a career-best season, and ironically, while playing against his former employers in PSG, is really unfortunate.

Amidst all this, it should be remembered that the Premier League side are waiting for more information regarding the injury. Even though it looks bad, no time-frame can be put on it.

Shearer reveals “exactly what Liverpool have been missing” against PSG tonight 

The post “I think..” – Ibrahima Konate issues worrying update on Liverpool teammate Ekitike appeared first on CaughtOffside.

According to Daily Mail, Manchester United have sent their scouts down to the South Coast to monitor Bournemouth duo Junior Kroupi and Marcos Senesi.

If the rumours hold weight, United could be plotting a massive double raid on the Vitality Stadium.

The Red Devils are expected to be active in the summer transfer window and they are planning to strengthen their attacking as well as defensive ranks.

Their latest defeat in the Premier League against Leeds United exposed more problems for them.

Junior Kroupi can add new dimension to Man United attack

Junior Kroupi has been an absolute revelation since making his mark.

Traditionally, Man United love a pacy, versatile forward with a bit of flair, and the 19-year-old Frenchman fits that profile.

Capable of playing across the front line or dropping slightly deeper to link up play, Kroupi brings a level of youthful fearlessness that United’s attack often desperately needs when they look flat.

With the INEOS regime clearly keen on building a squad for the future, snapping up one of the Premier League’s most exciting teenagers makes perfect sense. He’s raw, sure, but his ceiling is sky-high.

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Senesi will be a defender in high demand this summer

On the completely opposite end of the spectrum is Senesi.

At 28, the Argentine international is right in his prime and completely battle-tested in the brutal environment of the Premier League.

What makes Senesi so incredibly attractive to United’s recruitment team is his profile: he is a naturally left-footed center-back.

Finding balance in the heart of defense has been a massive headache at Old Trafford, especially when injuries strike.

Senesi isn’t just a physical, no-nonsense defender who loves a crunching tackle, he is also brilliantly composed on the ball and capable of launching attacks from deep.

This reported interest tells us a lot about the current direction of Man United’s board.

Instead of solely chasing £100 million “galacticos” who might struggle to adapt to the English game, they are actively looking at players already thriving in the Premier League system.

Man United tracking 19-year-old PL talent since 2023, Arsenal and Chelsea circle 

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Arsenal are intensifying their efforts to secure the signing of Julián Álvarez, with the Atlético Madrid striker emerging as one of the club’s primary targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

The North London side are understood to be acting swiftly to position themselves ahead of rival suitors, particularly Paris Saint-Germain, who have maintained a long-standing interest in the Argentine forward.

The Gunners’ strategy appears focused on establishing a strong relationship with the player and his representatives before entering formal negotiations with Atlético Madrid, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

By doing so, Arsenal hope to strengthen their leverage when discussions with the Spanish club begin. However, Atlético’s firm stance suggests that prising away one of their key attackers will not be straightforward.

The 26-year-old has scored 18 goals in all competitions for Diego Simeone’s side this season.

Atlético Madrid hold firm despite growing interest

Atlético Madrid have publicly maintained that Álvarez is not available for transfer, with senior figures at the club repeatedly emphasising his importance to their long-term plans.

Since joining the Spanish side, the Argentine international has developed into a central figure in their attacking system.

Despite this strong public position, reports from Spanish and European media indicate that the club may reconsider if presented with an exceptional financial offer.

Atlético are believed to value Álvarez at approximately €120 million, a figure designed to deter interest while reflecting the player’s rising status.

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Arsenal are planning for exits to unlock the deal

Arsenal’s pursuit of Álvarez is believed to be closely tied to potential changes within their attacking department.

The club could consider moving on one of their current forwards, such as Gabriel Jesus or Kai Havertz, to create space within the wage structure and free up funds for a major signing.

Although Arsenal appear to be taking decisive steps, they are far from alone in their pursuit.

Paris Saint-Germain have tracked Álvarez for an extended period and could re-enter negotiations if their attacking lineup undergoes changes.

Chelsea are another club monitoring the situation closely. Reports indicate that their level of involvement may depend on outgoing transfers, particularly if they manage to sell players such as Nicolas Jackson or Liam Delap. Should funds become available, Chelsea could mount a serious challenge.

Meanwhile, Barcelona have maintained communication with Álvarez’s representatives and are expected to explore their options following the conclusion of their Champions League commitments.

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Nico Schlotterbeck has been heavily linked with a move away from Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season.

However, the German international has committed to the club by signing an extension. According to Florian Plettenberg, the player has a release clause of €50-60 million in his new deal, and it will be available to trigger for a few clubs.

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Liverpool boost in Nico Schlotterbeck chase

Liverpool and Real Madrid can activate the defender’s clause this summer. However, the release clause will not be valid for the entire transfer window. According to reports, it will expire around the time of the World Cup final, which is on 19 July. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool decides to make a move for the German defender in the summer.

Schlotterbeck has been outstanding in the Bundesliga, and he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League as well. Liverpool is trying to agree on a new contract with Ibrahima Konate, but they have not succeeded yet. If they failed to convince the French international to sign a new deal, it would be ideal for them to bring in the German as his replacement.

Manchester United have been linked with Schlotterbeck among other clubs.

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Schlotterbeck could fancy a big move

Real Madrid were on the player as well, but they are yet to come forward with an official approach. The defender will certainly want to compete at the highest level and move to the Premier League, and La Liga could be exciting for him. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds over the next few weeks.

Schlotterbeck is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to take on a new challenge. He will want to play for the biggest clubs in the world and regularly fight for major trophies.

The post Boost for Liverpool in their pursuit of €60m star, but they must act before 19 July appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Following their elimination, Barcelona star Raphinha blasted the officiating, calling their Champions League quarterfinal exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid a "robbery."

Barcelona‘s hopes of winning the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League were extinguished on Tuesday after falling short of overturning the aggregate deficit despite a 2-1 win at the Metropolitano. The controversy surrounding the tie against Atletico Madrid, however, is far from over, with star forward Raphinha pulling no punches in calling out what he described as a “robbery” by the referees across the entire quarterfinal series.

Raphinha had been one of the most significant absentees for Barcelona after picking up an injury during the March international break with Brazil, ruling him out of both legs against Atletico. Although he traveled to Madrid with his teammates to show his support, he made his feelings about the officiating crystal clear when addressing the media in the mixed zone.

“This match was a robbery. The refereeing had many issues; the decisions he made are unbelievable. Atletico committed I don’t know how many fouls, and the referee didn’t show them a single yellow card. I really want to understand his fear of Barca actually making it through the tie,” Raphinha said.

Among the most consequential decisions that went against the Blaugrana were the red cards shown to Pau Cubarsi in the first leg and Eric Garcia in the second, though both dismissals left little room for argument, with each player having fouled as the last man.

One of the more contentious moments from the first leg arose when Marc Pubill appeared to handle the ball after Juan Musso restarted play from a goal kick, only for the officials to wave away the appeals on the grounds that the ball was not yet in play. On the foul count, Atletico committed 15 compared to Barcelona’s eight in the second leg, yet the Colchoneros escaped without a single yellow card on the night.

For Raphinha, the accumulation of those decisions across both matches points to something more than isolated errors. “It was tough, especially when you see that you have to put in triple the effort just to win the match. I understand making a mistake in one match, but in two consecutive games?” the Brazilian added.

Musso responds to Raphinha

Raphinha’s pointed comments did not take long to make their way around the mixed zone, and Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso was given the chance to respond. The Argentine, who was outstanding across both legs, was having none of it.

“You can’t talk about a robbery. I understand what anyone might say. I respect everyone’s opinion, but let’s not frame the series as if it were a robbery, because that wasn’t the case. We won it on the pitch; we won 2-0 away. Being the last man in football is a red card, unfortunately,” Musso said, directly addressing the dismissals of Cubarsi and Garcia.

Having made seven saves in each leg, Musso was a central figure in Atletico’s progression through the Champions League quarterfinals, and he made a point of acknowledging the quality of the opponent while firmly rejecting Raphinha’s characterization. “They are a team we respect a lot and one that truly motivates us to play against. They are a great team, but I think talking about a robbery is madness,” he concluded.

Ousmane Dembele believes he showcased the best of his ability to lead Paris Saint-Germain into the Champions League semi-finals. Dembele scored twice in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield, which sealed a 4-0 triumph on aggregate for Luis Enrique’s side, who will face Bayern Munich or Real Madrid next. Last year’s Ballon d’Or winner […]

The post ´I´ve wanted to show my football for a long time´ – Dembele revels in Champions League heroics appeared first on Soccer News.

The post ´I´ve wanted to show my football for a long time´ – Dembele revels in Champions League heroics appeared first on Soccer News.

Hansi Flick was full of pride for Barcelona’s display in their Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, as he turned his focus to winning LaLiga. Barca were beaten 3-2 on aggregate by Atletico, despite winning Tuesday’s second leg 2-1. Diego Simeone’s side can now look forward to taking on either Sporting CP or Arsenal in […]

The post Flick turns full focus to LaLiga after Barcelona slump out of Champions League appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Flick turns full focus to LaLiga after Barcelona slump out of Champions League appeared first on Soccer News.

Hugo Ekitike looks set to face a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a serious injury in Liverpool’s Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Liverpool lost 2-0 at Anfield on Tuesday, capping off a 4-0 aggregate defeat to the European champions, with Ousmane Dembele scoring twice in the second half. While PSG can now look […]

The post Slot confirms Ekitike´s injury looks bad as Konate bemoans ´unfair´ Champions League exit appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Slot confirms Ekitike´s injury looks bad as Konate bemoans ´unfair´ Champions League exit appeared first on Soccer News.

Christian Pulisic finds himself under the spotlight as Massimiliano Allegri’s influence in Italian soccer continues to grow amid rising speculation about a potential Italy national team appointment, with the situation at Milan becoming increasingly tense.

Christian Pulisic finds himself under the spotlight as Massimiliano Allegri’s influence in Italian soccer continues to grow amid rising speculation about a potential Italy national team appointment, with the situation at Milan becoming increasingly tense. At the same time, Allegri’s future is being shaped by internal expectations at the club, while discussions about what he demands to remain in charge continue to circulate behind the scenes.

According to multiple reports in Italy, Allegri has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the national team should Giovanni Malago secure the presidency of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). This scenario has gained traction quickly, especially after strong backing from Serie A clubs ahead of the upcoming election.

The situation is fluid, but “Allegri will become the favorite to become the next Italy national team head coach if the former CONI President is elected”, Calciomercato’s Daniele Longo revealed on X (formerly Twitter). That possibility has placed Milan in a delicate position, with its current manager suddenly at the center of a national rebuild.

What are Allegri’s reported demands to stay?

The uncertainty surrounding Allegri’s future is tied closely to his expectations from the club. At Milan, his position is far from settled. The club has suffered a dip in form in Serie A, with two consecutive defeats raising concerns about Champions League qualification and long-term direction. This has created friction between coaching expectations and transfer planning.

The coach is frustrated with the recruitment strategy, particularly the lack of defensive reinforcements and inconsistency in squad depth, La Gazzetta dello Sport adds. One internal concern is that the hierarchy’s inability to strengthen key areas has directly affected performance levels and tactical flexibility.

The tension has also created a scenario where the 58-year-old boss’ future depends heavily on guarantees. As outlined in La Gazzetta dello Sport’s report, he is expected to demand greater decision-making power over transfers if he remains beyond the season, especially if the club secures a top-four finish.

Allegri’s ‘what if’ clause and how his possible exit route could affect Pulisic

The situation has reached a point where multiple outcomes are being considered inside the club. Allegri’s contract could extend under normal conditions, but that extension is reportedly tied to performance and alignment with management expectations.

If disagreements over transfer policy continue, a potential separation between Allegri and Milan cannot be ruled out, particularly if a national team offer becomes concrete. Italy’s interest adds another layer, giving him an alternative path that avoids the day-to-day pressure of club action.

This uncertainty inevitably affects players like Christian Pulisic, who has become an important figure in Milan’s attacking setup since moving to the San Siro in 2023. However, his recent form has reflected the wider inconsistency of the team, with 2026 goalscoring output fluctuating as the club struggles to maintain rhythm in front of goal.

Within the squad, questions are being asked about attacking balance, chance creation, and finishing efficiency. A coaching change or tactical reset could directly influence Pulisic’s role and output, especially if Allegri’s system evolves or if a new manager arrives with different ideas.

Al-Nassr stands in a commanding position compared to Karim Benzema's Al-Hilal, but the final steps toward glory still demand precision and consistency.

The pressure is building around Cristiano Ronaldo as the Saudi Pro League season approaches its decisive stretch, with the title race entering a critical phase. Al-Nassr stands in a commanding position compared to Karim Benzema’s Al-Hilal, but the final steps toward glory still demand precision and consistency.

The club has placed itself at the summit of the table after a dominant campaign, showing authority in both attack and results. The margin at the top provides confidence, yet the title is not secured, and every remaining match carries weight.

From the opening months, Jorge Jesus’ side has established itself as the most consistent side in the league. With 73 points from 28 matches, the Knight of Najd leads the standings with a five-point cushion over Al-Hilal and a further seven-point gap to Al-Ahli, placing it firmly in control.

The numbers highlight a campaign driven by attacking firepower and resilience. A record of 24 wins and a goal difference of +57 underlines the club’s dominance, making it the benchmark for the rest of the league. However, dominance alone does not guarantee silverware, especially with six matches still to play.

What it will take for Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr to become champion

The key figure in this title race is 87 points. That number represents the maximum total Al-Hilal can reach if it wins all six of its remaining matches (68 + 18 = 86). Therefore, for Al-Nassr to guarantee the title regardless of other results, it must surpass that total.

Currently, Al-Nassr needs 14 points from its remaining six matches to mathematically secure the title, a total that would take it beyond the maximum possible tally of its closest rival. This would take the team to 87 points, making it unreachable.

There are multiple ways to reach that number, each carrying its own level of risk:

• Five wins = 15 points (more than enough)
• Four wins and two draws = 14 points
• Four wins, one draw, and one loss = 13 points (not guaranteed)

Anything less than 14 points opens the door for Al-Hilal to potentially overtake Cristiano Ronaldo’s side. The road to the title is far from straightforward, with several challenging fixtures ahead. Matches against teams like Al-Ettifaq, Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, and a crucial showdown with Karim Benzema‘s side will test the club’s resolve.

Three different scenarios

Scenario 1: Al-Nassr takes care of business

If Jorge Jesus’ players win at least five of their last six matches, the title is theirs; simple as that. Even four wins and two draws would be enough. Given their current form, 24 wins in 28 matches and a +57 goal difference, this is a very realistic outcome.

Scenario 2: Slips open the door

If Al-Nassr drops points, especially through defeats, the pressure shifts. For example, if it collects 12-13 points, it could finish on 85-86 points. That would allow Al-Hilal to catch or surpass it if the latter wins all remaining matches. In this case, goal difference could even come into play, although Al-Nassr currently has a strong edge.

Scenario 3: Rivals drop points

Al-Nassr may not even need the full 14 points if the club’s two rivals stumble. If Al-Hilal loses or draws even once, its maximum total drops below 86. That reduces the number of points Al-Nassr need to secure the title.

For instance, if Al-Hilal drops three points (one loss), its maximum becomes 83. Al-Nassr would then only need 11 more points to guarantee first place. The same applies to Al-Ahli, who are slightly further back but still mathematically in the race.

Brazil former star Filipe Luis highlighted the importance of Carlo Ancelotti at this crucial moment.

With two months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil are hopeful that Carlo Ancelotti can provide the national team with a tactical identity that allows them to compete for the title in North America. Filipe Luis expressed confidence that the Italian coach will get the job done in time.

“Ancelotti brings us many good things,” Filipe Luis said during a conference organized by Conmebol this week, according to Diario AS. “There are no guarantees we’ll win anything, but it’s the best that could have happened.”

The former Atletico Madrid defender pointed to the timing of Ancelotti’s arrival to take over the national team. In mid-2025, Brazil were coming off a heavy loss to Argentina in Buenos Aires and, with four matches remaining in the South American qualifiers, had not yet secured their place in the World Cup.

Carlo Ancelotti delivered the results needed to achieve that goal and has since used every FIFA break to shape a team that had struggled to meet expectations since the departure of Tite after the 2022 World Cup at Qatar.

Filipe Luis believes in Brazil’s chances

The general consensus among fans and analysts lists Spain, France and Argentina as the top favorites to win the 2026 World Cup. Despite being the most successful national team in the competition’s history, Brazil are not placed in that top tier, but rather in a second group alongside other powerhouses such as Germany, England and Portugal.

However, Filipe Luis warned those who might count Brazil out of the title race. “Brazil will always be one of the favorites, even when things aren’t going well,” said the former Flamengo manager, extending that view to Argentina as well.

To support his confidence in Ancelotti’s squad, Filipe Luis pointed to the team’s individual talent: “People don’t believe Brazil can win. But if you look at the five best players in the world, we have two: Raphinha and Vini Jr.”

Brazil’s path in the 2026 World Cup

Brazil are in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will open their campaign on June 13 against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, before traveling to Philadelphia six days later to face Haiti. Their final group-stage match will be on June 24 in Miami against Scotland.

If everything goes as expected and Carlo Ancelotti’s side finish top of the group, they will advance to the Round of 16, where they would face the runner-up of Group F — made up of Netherlands, Japan, Sweden and Tunisia — in Houston on June 29.

Ahead of the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals against Real Madrid, legend Manuel Neuer warned Bayern Munich to "be careful."

Manuel Neuer continues to perform at an elite level at 40 years old, proving to be the difference-maker in the first leg against Real Madrid, but the veteran keeper knows the job is far from finished. Ahead of hosting Los Blancos for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Neuer warned his Bayern Munich teammates to “be careful” when dealing with the Spanish giants.

Boasting nine saves and 1.05 goals prevented according to SofaScore, Neuer earned Man of the Match honors in the opening leg as Bayern secured a gritty 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite holding a narrow aggregate lead, the World Cup winner remains wary of a trademark Real Madrid comeback.

Speaking to the media during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, Neuer was quick to downplay Bayern’s upper hand: “The only advantage is that we have a (one-goal) lead, but it’s Real Madrid; it is a very tough challenge. We are fortunate to play the second leg at home, and we have confidence in the fans. We are very motivated and prepared. It’s a good situation to be in… but we must be careful, as we’ve seen in the past how Real Madrid can win.“

Real Madrid enter the fixture following a 1-1 draw against Girona on Friday, a result that leaves them trailing La Liga leaders Barcelona by nine points. With only seven games remaining in the domestic campaign, the Champions League likely represents their final path to avoiding a trophyless 2025-26 season.

40 years old and putting in special performances 👏

Manuel Neuer POTM 🏆#POTM | #UCL pic.twitter.com/ndU4NJSlrn

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 7, 2026

Asked if Bayern is wary of a desperate and motivated Madrid side, Neuer was candid. “Of course… we know this situation well. For a big club like Real Madrid, it’s a brutal thing. When you evaluate that situation, you know it can make you more dangerous. But I don’t want to think too much about their situation, only about us. About the run we’re on and the fact that we are still in every competition. And that is all we are thinking about,” he stated.

Neuer’s record vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid has evolved into one of Neuer’s primary antagonists in European play. The goalkeeper has faced them in four previous knockout ties, advancing only once back in the 2011-12 season while falling in the 2013-14, 2016-17, and 2023-24 campaigns. (While the clubs also met in 2017-18, Neuer was sidelined due to injury).

In nine career appearances against Madrid, Neuer holds a 3-5-1 record with 19 goals conceded. The 2016-17 series remains particularly etched in memory due to officiating controversies, a history Neuer subtly alluded to when noting he has seen “how Real Madrid can win.”

Neuer to decide future soon

Having turned 40 in March, questions regarding Neuer’s future have intensified as his contract expires at the end of the current season. Addressing his longevity, Neuer adopted a measured tone while suggesting a final call is imminent.

“The sooner I make the decision, the better. It won’t depend on the titles we win. But I haven’t decided anything yet, though it won’t take much longer,” he said. While rumors have swirled regarding a potential spot on Germany’s 2026 World Cup roster, the legend has already dismissed those claims, signaling that certain chapters of his storied career are indeed closing.

Club America take on Nashville SC in the second leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. Here’s everything you need to know about the date, venue, kickoff time, and viewing options for fans in the United States.

Match Overview

With a spot in the semifinals hanging in the balance, Club America head back home knowing the margin for error is razor-thin after a deadlocked first leg. The opening clash produced no goals but plenty of tension, leaving this series wide open as both teams prepare for a decisive showdown where one breakthrough could swing everything.

Standing in their way is a red-hot Nashville SC side that has quickly established itself among MLS’s elite, arriving with confidence and momentum as they chase a statement result on the road. With both clubs still in full control of their fate and everything to play for, expect a high-intensity battle.

Ousmane Dembele’s double propelled Paris Saint-Germain to a 2-0 win over Liverpool and into the Champions League semi-finals. Under-pressure Liverpool boss Arne Slot knew overturning PSG’s 2-0 advantage from the first leg would be a tall order, and two moments of brilliance from Dembele at Anfield saw the European champions win 4-0 on aggregate. Khvicha […]

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The post Liverpool 0-2 Paris Saint-Germain (0-4 agg): Dembele double sends Slot´s men crashing out of Champio appeared first on Soccer News.

Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain advanced to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League, earning a significant financial reward in the process.

On Tuesday, the first two clubs secured their spots in the semifinals of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League. Atletico Madrid lost 2-1 to Barcelona but still advanced thanks to their first-leg victory, while Paris Saint-Germain extended their advantage against Liverpool. Both clubs will receive a substantial financial prize for progressing to the next round.

Simply for reaching the Champions League semifinals, UEFA awards each club €15 million — approximately $17.6 million. While that alone represents a major boost for Europe’s top four teams, it is only part of the total revenue clubs generate from a deep run in the competition.

UEFA’s distribution system is made up of several components: participation bonuses, performance-based rewards, and milestone payments. As a result, each club’s total earnings vary depending on how far they advance and how they perform throughout the tournament.

The Champions League prize money structure

Each of the 36 clubs that participated in the UEFA Champions League league phase received a base payment of €18.62 million, roughly $22 million. From there, performance in that stage determines additional earnings.

Paris locked in for the semi-finals 🔒#UCL pic.twitter.com/O3eBTXtXCf

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 14, 2026

During the league phase, teams earn an extra $2.48 million for each win and $0.83 million for each draw. That is why the top-performing team in that stage — Arsenal — collected $19.8 million from eight wins, bringing their total to nearly $42 million when combined with the base payment.

How much do clubs earn for advancing in the Champions League?

Once in the knockout stages, teams also receive payments based on their position in the standings. On top of that, there are additional bonuses for advancing through each round: $13 million for reaching the Round of 16 and $14.7 million for making the quarterfinals.

As mentioned, the semifinals are worth an additional $17.6 million. Reaching the final brings in $21.8 million, and winning it adds another $7.6 million. That title also grants access to the UEFA Super Cup, which can be worth up to $5.9 million more.

Finally, each club receives a “value pillar” payment tied to broadcasting rights and other commercial revenues related to the UEFA Champions League. The amount varies by club, based on a coefficient that considers performances over the past 10 years.

Taking all these factors into account, the Champions League winner this season could earn around €150 million (approximately $175 million) in total, combining performance-based prizes and commercial revenue.

Cruz Azul square off against LAFC in the second leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. Here’s everything you need to know about the date, venue, kickoff time, and viewing options for fans in the United States.

Match Overview

What was billed as a tightly contested matchup quickly turned one-sided in the opening leg, as Los Angeles FC capitalized on home-field advantage in dominant fashion, rolling to a convincing 3-0 win that gives the MLS side firm control of the series heading into the return leg.

Still, with everything to play for, LAFC will look to finish the job, while Cruz Azul head back home knowing they face a steep climb but holding onto hope that a spirited performance in front of their fans could spark an unlikely comeback and keep its tournament hopes alive.

Hakan Calhanoglu’s agent has moved to categorically dismiss speculation linking the Inter midfielder with a return to Turkey, insisting there has never been any concrete contact with Galatasaray and that his client remains fully focused on winning the Scudetto with the Nerazzurri.

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Gordon Stipic spoke to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano to set the record straight after reports of Galatasaray interest resurfaced in recent days, a story that has circulated periodically without ever materialising into anything concrete.

“He has a contract with Inter until 2027 and is very happy both in Italy and at Inter,” Stipic said, via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“Speculation about a possible transfer to Galatasaray has emerged several times in the past and is now being recycled.”

Calhanoglu agent plays down Galatasaray links

The agent was emphatic in his denial of any formal approach. “The facts are clear, there have been no negotiations with Galatasaray, neither last summer nor in January,” he said. “At no point was there any request or concrete enquiry. Calhanoglu remains completely focused on what truly matters at this stage, Inter, the title race and achieving success together with the team.”

Stipic also took the opportunity to highlight his client’s broader ambitions, pointing to the World Cup as a source of additional motivation for the Turkish international.

“Week after week, through his performances, his passion and his sense of responsibility on the pitch, he continues to demonstrate his quality and his importance to the team,” he said.

“He looks ahead to the World Cup with great pride and determination, where he will lead his national team as captain, a responsibility that is a special honour and means everything to him.”

While Italian football’s men’s team grapples with the fallout of a third consecutive World Cup absence, their female counterparts are doing everything in their power to ensure Italy has a presence at the 2027 tournament, and a commanding 6-0 demolition of Serbia has kept that dream very much alive.

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Andrea Soncin’s Azzurre were utterly dominant from start to finish, leading 3-0 at half-time through goals from Cristiana Girelli, Oliviero and Lenzini before a blistering second-half display completed the rout.

Caruso added a fourth before Cantore and Greggi wrapped up a thoroughly convincing victory that has breathed new life into Italy’s qualification hopes.

Italy face Denmark decider for World Cup qualification hopes

The context makes Saturday’s fixture against Denmark all the more significant.

With only the group winner qualifying automatically, the remaining sides dropping into the playoffs, the standings are finely poised. Denmark lead the group on seven points, with Italy and Sweden level on four in second and third respectively, and Serbia rooted to the bottom without a win.

A victory for Italy against the Danes on Saturday afternoon would leapfrog them into first place, while a draw could still be enough depending on the outcome of other results.

Then, in June, Italy face Serbia and Sweden, to determine the final standings, with head-to-head record and then goal difference in direct matches serving as the tiebreaker.

The prize at the end of this journey is a place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, the first South American nation to host the tournament. For a group of players performing with growing confidence and conviction, Saturday represents the biggest match of their qualification campaign.

Liverpool have crashed to a 2-0 defeat at Anfield against PSG in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

After losing the first leg 2-0 away from home, they were hoping to overturn the deficit at home, but the defending European champions have managed to get the job done at Anfield, and they will head to the semifinals of the competition with a comprehensive result over the two legs.

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Liverpool lacking quality in the attack

While there is no doubt that Liverpool put on a strong performance against PSG tonight, they were simply missing the cutting edge in the final third. Despite putting the away side under tremendous pressure for most of the game, they failed to create too many opportunities and get on the score sheet.

Former Premier League star Alan Shearer has revealed that the extra bit of quality and brilliance on the edge of the box separates the two teams.

Despite struggling for most of the game, PSG opened the scoring in the second half through Ousmane Dembele, who found the back of the net with an effort from outside the box.

Liverpool lead race for 14-G/A forward who “delivers week after week”, face club-record transfer hurdle

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Alan Shearer on Liverpool’s shortcomings

Shearer told the BBC: “That is exactly what Liverpool have been missing tonight and for large parts of this season; that bit of quality and brilliance, on the edge of the box. The way he shifts it is magnificent forward play from Ousmane Dembele. A wonderful finish.”

Dembele doubled the advantage for his team late in the game to secure a 2-0 victory in the second leg. They will now face Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the Champions League semifinals.

As for Liverpool, they will look to secure a top-five finish in the Premier League and qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season. Hugo Ekitike picked up what looks like a season-ending injury earlier tonight, which will only make things harder for the team in the remaining games.

Liverpool star faces rumoured 12-month layoff after shock injury vs PSG

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PSG are 2-0 up on aggregate against Liverpool after the first half in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

They picked up the convincing lead in the first leg at home, and they have done well to navigate the first half of the second leg, which is goalless so far. Liverpool had a glorious opportunity to cut down the deficit through Virgil van Dijk, but he was denied by an exceptional goal-line block from Marquinhos.

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Hugo Ekitike picks up a serious injury

Liverpool decided to drop Mohamed Salah to the bench at the start of the game and opted to start with Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike. However, the French international picked up a serious injury in the first half, and he had to be stretchered off.

A huge concern as Hugo Ekitike is stretchered off during Liverpool’s Champions League quarter-final against PSG. pic.twitter.com/X43BkmkIzV

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 14, 2026

While the true extent of the damage is yet to be determined, it does seem like Ekitike has picked up a serious blow, and his season could easily be over. With the World Cup coming up later this summer, there will be major question marks over his participation in the mega event as well.

Rumours suggest the Liverpool striker might have damaged his Achilles tendon, and he could be ruled out for 9 to 12 months.

اصابة هوغو ايكتيكي من طريقة الاصابة هي قطع في وتر اخيليس وغياب لنهاية الموسم

فترة الغياب : 9-12 شهر pic.twitter.com/g3oF7espVN

— عبدالسلام الشمري (@alsllmii) April 14, 2026

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More Stories / Latest News

Romano issues update on Man United stance on Carrick following Leeds United humiliation

Apr 15 2026, 9:54

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Apr 15 2026, 9:39

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Apr 15 2026, 8:59

Ekitike injury will be a huge blow

With Isak just back from injury and Salah not at his best, the absence of their top scorer (17 goals) for the remainder of the season will be a huge blow for Liverpool. They have had a disappointing campaign so far, and they are fighting for Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign.

Ekitike has had a reasonably good debut campaign with Liverpool, and he could have been a very useful option for them in the attack for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, Ekitike has been linked with clubs like Real Madrid recently.

Shearer reveals “exactly what Liverpool have been missing” against PSG tonight

The post Liverpool star faces rumoured 12-month layoff after shock injury vs PSG appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Lamine Yamal continues to draw global attention as he delivers another historic UEFA Champions League performance for Barcelona. At the same time, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo remain the reference points for greatness in Europe’s elite competition.

Lamine Yamal continues to draw global attention as he delivers another historic UEFA Champions League performance for Barcelona. At the same time, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo remain the reference points for greatness in Europe’s elite competition. In a tense knockout clash against Atletico Madrid, Yamal’s influence once again stood out in a match that swung between control and chaos.

The teenager’s rise is now being measured not just in moments, but in records that place him ahead of soccer’s most iconic figures. At the same time, the discussion around Messi and Ronaldo has resurfaced, with their early Champions League milestones offering context for just how unusual Yamal’s trajectory has become.

The second leg at the Metropolitano began with intensity, as Barcelona tried to overturn a first-leg deficit against Atletico Madrid. Early pressure brought immediate danger, with Yamal creating the first real opening inside the opening minute, forcing an early save from Jan Oblak’s replacement.

The breakthrough arrived quickly when the Spaniard finished a flowing move after a defensive error, putting the club ahead on the night. It was the teen star who calmly finished through the goalkeeper’s legs to silence the stadium.

Lamine Yamal breaks unprecedented Champions League record

Amid the tension, Lamine Yamal reached a historic milestone by becoming the youngest player ever to record 20 Champions League goal contributions (11 goals and nine assists). According to Squawka, he achieved this at just 18 years and 275 days old, a record that places him in a category no other teenager has reached.

Even more striking is the context: he achieved this milestone in just 32 matches and before turning 19, a feat that places him in uncharted territory. He also became the youngest player to reach 10+ goal contributions in a single Champions League campaign. Even in a high-pressure knockout tie, his involvement remained decisive, as seen in his assist and attacking influence throughout the match.

When Messi reached the milestone

For Lionel Messi, the journey to similar numbers came later in his development at Barcelona. He reached 20 Champions League goals at 22 years and 266 days old, requiring around 40 appearances to hit that mark. At that stage, the Argentine was still transitioning into a central attacking role, gradually evolving into the defining figure of his era.

When Cristiano Ronaldo reached the milestone

Cristiano Ronaldo’s progression in Europe followed a different path, taking longer in his early years at Manchester United before exploding at Real Madrid. He reached 20 Champions League goals at 24 years old, doing so in 56 matches.

Like Messi, Ronaldo’s early Champions League years were about adaptation and growth before his peak scoring phase arrived. His transformation into a record-breaking forward came later, after refining his role as a consistent goalscorer. That places the Barcelona teenager roughly three to five years ahead of two of the greatest players in Champions League history.