Brazil icon Hulk has created headlines after being involved in the Atlético Mineiro–Cruzeiro mayhem which saw 23 red cards.

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

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

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

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

Hulk’s message after the incident

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Despite the strong criticism, Mauricio Pochettino has managed to create a very interesting project with the USMNT. Nevertheless, the Argentine could be tempted to leave, as a top LaLiga team is reportedly interested in his arrival for the following season.

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

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

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

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

Not only Pochettino: Real Madrid reportedly eye other coach options

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

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

The international playoffs for the 2026 World Cup scheduled for March could end up facing a setback as Iraq national team has issued a postponement request to FIFA.

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

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

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

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

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

Alternatives still being weighed

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

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

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

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

Amid a season full of inconsistencies, Liverpool appear to be preparing for a possible departure of Mohamed Salah in the summer. In response, they are reportedly targeting a star from the Saudi Pro League as a key reinforcement for the 2026–27 season.

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

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

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

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

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

Report: Liverpool chase an offensive rebuild for the next season

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

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

Cristiano Ronaldo will be facing a long break due to FIFA calendar until his next game with Al Nassr.

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

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

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

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

Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule

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

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

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

With Cristiano Ronaldo now forced to have a speedy recovery to be available, the date when coach Roberto Martinez will be revealing Portugal's squad for the friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT has been confirmed.

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

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

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

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

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

Will Ronaldo recover in time?

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

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

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

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

Xabi Alonso was expected to be the undisputed leader of Real Madrid, but the team’s poor performances led to his dismissal shortly after his arrival. Despite this, he seems to be finding his path again, as he is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with a Premier League side.

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

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

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

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

Xabi Alonso could unlock the potential of several Liverpool stars

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

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

After his surgery, Neymar Jr. appears to be close to his best physical form at Santos, scoring two goals and providing one assist in three games. Given this, the veteran could be close to returning to Brazil, as Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly making a decision ahead of the upcoming friendly games.

Neymar Jr. appears to be gradually regaining his best competitive form at Santos. After undergoing meniscus surgery, he has managed to play three matches, showing an impressive level with two goals and one assist. With this, the veteran is aiming for a return to Brazil’s national team, which he has missed for several matches. Ahead of the upcoming friendlies, coach Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly made a key decision, exciting the fans.

According to Lucas Musetti of UOL Esporte, Carlo Ancelotti has made the decision to include Neymar Jr. on the list of pre-selected players with Brazil for the double round of friendlies against France and Croatia. In addition, the coach has decided to travel to watch him play with Santos, in order to follow his physical development. Despite this, the veteran does not have his call-up secured, but he is on a good path, drawing the attention of the Italian.

After shining in his first three matches following his recovery, Santos have decided not to call up Neymar for the match against Mirassol in the Brasileirão. Far from being a relapse of his injury, the veteran has been left out as part of load management, aiming to prioritize his physical continuity. Despite this, the 34-year-old star will train with the team and is expected to be available against Corinthians, where Ancelotti could go to watch him.

If he manages to maintain his physical continuity and good performances, Neymar Jr. could secure his spot with Brazil for the 2026 World Cup. After Rodrygo’s absence due to an ACL and meniscus injury, he could take his place in the roster, having Raphinha and Lucas Paquetá as competition. Because of this, the 34-year-old faces his biggest challenge in recent years: To shine with Santos in order to pursue his ‘last dance’.

Neymar Jr’s Brazil comeback receives major backing from legend Romario

After his return to Santos, Neymar Jr. has shown strong interest in making his return to due to physical problems. While he is coming off a season marked by injuries, he has undergone surgery and appears to be regaining his full physical condition. In response, the veteran’s return to the national team has received considerable support, with the legend Romário being the latest to come out in his defense.

“Neymar’s absence is certainly very bad for Brazil. The sixth title will definitely be farther away. We can only hope he is physically well and able to give everything he has… I don’t know if he’ll be able to be there without issues, but if Neymar is at 70 percent, that’s already good enough—he already helps, he already makes a difference,” Romario said, via Veja Magazine.

As Neymar is the national team’s all-time top scorer, his possible presence at the 2026 World Cup could be decisive. He may no longer be at his peak, but he has proven to be a key player creatively while still maintaining his goal-scoring instinct. Because of this, he could be crucial as an impact substitute, providing experience to manage the tempo of the game. In addition, he has received support from several players.

Scottish Cup TV Schedule World Soccer Talk's Scottish Cup TV schedule consistently updates with each game from Scotland's top cup tournament. In many ways, the Scottish Cup resembles that of the FA Cup, Copa del Rey, DFB Pokal and any other major club tournament. The one caveat to that statement is that it, unsurprisingly, only […]

Scottish Cup TV Schedule

World Soccer Talk’s Scottish Cup TV schedule consistently updates with each game from Scotland’s top cup tournament.

In many ways, the Scottish Cup resembles that of the FA Cup, Copa del Rey, DFB Pokal and any other major club tournament. The one caveat to that statement is that it, unsurprisingly, only applies to clubs in Scotland.

Clubs such as Celtic, Rangers, Hearts, and Aberdeen frequently excel in the competition, but the tournament consistently produces unexpected storylines. For example, the 2021 Scottish Cup Final featured St. Johnstone and Hibernian, proving that the trophy remains within reach for clubs across the country. This unpredictability is a hallmark of the competition, as shown again in 2024 when Celtic and Rangers met in the first Old Firm final since 2002.

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The 2016 Scottish Cup Final featured Hibernian and Rangers. For one, both clubs compete in the Scottish Championship, the second tier of league soccer in the country. Additionally, Hibs sought its first Scottish Cup title in 114 years. The dramatic final needed a stoppage-time winner to break Hibernian’s drought.

Despite playing in the second division, the triumph opened European potential for Hibs.

The Scottish Cup, also known as the Scottish FA Cup, guarantees a spot in the following season’s Europa League. Moreover, the competition used to have the runner-up reach the qualification stage, but that changed in 2014 to open up for placement in the Scottish Premiership.

Still, the Scottish Cup presents the opportunity for any club in the Scottish FA. Those in the Scottish Professional Football League, or the top four divisions, as well as the clubs in the fifth and sixth divisions qualify automatically. Clubs beneath that level, including amateur and junior teams, go through extended qualifying to reach the Scottish Cup.

History of the Scottish Cup

The Scottish Cup TV schedule features familiar names for soccer fans. Celtic has the most wins in the competition at 42. Just behind Scotland’s most successful side is its Old Firm rival Rangers, which has 34 Scottish Cups.

Despite the combined 76 Scottish Cups, there is still variety in terms of winners. In total, 25 different clubs can say they lifted the Scottish Cup. Yet, some of these clubs do not exist.

Aberdeen is the current defending champion for the 2025/26 season. They defeated Celtic 4–3 on penalties in the May 2025 final after a 1–1 draw at Hampden Park.

While the FA Cup is the oldest organized competition in the world, the Scottish Cup does produce the oldest trophy in the world. That is just because the current FA Cup trophy came around in 1911.

Interestingly, the Scottish FA uses the same trophy from 1874 in the celebrations after the final. Then, the winners receive a replica to hold on to, while the original goes back into a museum.

ESPN holds the rights in the United States to broadcast the Scottish Cup. Consequently, a number of games go through ESPN+.

Scottish Premiership TV Schedule If you're looking for the Scottish Premiership TV schedule for fans in the United States, you've come to the right place. CBS owns the rights to the Scottish Premiership as part of its extensive coverage of European soccer. Therefore, games in Scotland's top division are regularly available on CBS's streaming platform, […]

Scottish Premiership TV Schedule

If you’re looking for the Scottish Premiership TV schedule for fans in the United States, you’ve come to the right place.

CBS owns the rights to the Scottish Premiership as part of its extensive coverage of European soccer. Therefore, games in Scotland’s top division are regularly available on CBS’s streaming platform, Paramount+.

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For the 2025/26 season, CBS will carry at least one Scottish Premiership match per week on either CBS Sports Network or Paramount+. The network will also have coverage of select matches from the Scottish Championship and Scottish League Cup. The U.S. media rights include both English and Spanish to the Scottish Premiership, the top professional soccer league in Scotland.

The Scottish Premiership, previously known for sponsorship reasons as the William Hill Premiership, is the top division of the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), the league competition for men’s professional football clubs in Scotland.

Every week, we’ll update the TV schedules for you.

USL League One TV Schedule USL League One occupies the third tier of the American soccer pyramid. For the 2026 season, 17 clubs are competing for the title. This follows the late withdrawal of South Georgia Tormenta FC, which announced it would not participate in the 2026 campaign just days before the season opener due […]

USL League One TV Schedule

USL League One occupies the third tier of the American soccer pyramid. For the 2026 season, 17 clubs are competing for the title. This follows the late withdrawal of South Georgia Tormenta FC, which announced it would not participate in the 2026 campaign just days before the season opener due to internal financial restructuring.

While the USL Championship often features teams with sights set on the first division, USL League One serves as a vital professional battleground for rising talent and historic community clubs. Notably, the league consists entirely of independent organizations; all former MLS reserve sides have transitioned to MLS NEXT Pro, leaving League One as a platform for purely independent professional soccer.

The USL League One TV schedule airs on ESPN+. However, there are select games that air on some of the major ESPN networks. For instance, ESPN2 airs select games on the schedule below. Some games are also available on CBS Sports Golazo Network through Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, the Roku Channel, and other providers.

Amid Barcelona’s presidential elections, Xavi Hernández made explosive statements claiming that Joan Laporta blocked Lionel Messi’s return in January of 2023. In response, the presidential candidate delivered a firm reply, rejecting those claims.

After a successful tenure as Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta has positioned himself as a candidate seeking a third term at the club. While he has received support from several current and former players, Xavi Hernández has taken a stance against him, instead backing Víctor Font. Not only that, but he also made explosive remarks, blaming the candidate for Lionel Messi’s failure to return to the club. In response, Laporta delivered a strong reply.

Even though Xavi Hernández returned to Barcelona under Joan Laporta in 2021, his departure from the club in 2024 damaged the relationship between the two. After remaining silent for several years about his exit, the former coach decided to speak out, making a surprising revelation about the candidate who supposedly rejected Lionel Messi’s return in January 2023. In response, Laporta fired back at him.

“I was surprised and hurt. When I see these statements from Xavi, I think of Flick. It’s hard to be president of Barca and you have to make difficult decisions. I did what I had to do… With Xavi, I saw that we were going to lose, and with Flick, I see that we are going to win. I understand that he is hurt. While Xavi was losing, Flick is winning games with the same players,” Laporta said, via Mundo Deportivo.

Far from agreeing with Xavi Hernández regarding Lionel Messi’s potential return, Laporta decided to reaffirm his own version of events, rejecting the former coach’s comments: “It was like this with Messi: When we couldn’t renew him in 2023 due to financial issues, he told me that Messi wanted to return. I sent the contract to Jorge Messi, who later came to my house and told me that here he would have too much pressure.”

Barcelona’s Laporta has no regrets over Lionel Messi, Xavi departures

Following Josep Maria Bartomeu’s controversial tenure, Joan Laporta took over as president of Barcelona with serious financial challenges. With astronomical debt, they were on the verge of bankruptcy, but the board’s decisions put them back on the winning track. However, the former president had to make tough decisions, such as not renewing Messi’s contract and letting legends like Xavi and Ronald Koeman leave, which he does not regret.

“The three toughest decisions I have made are about Messi, Koeman, and Xavi. I made them by putting Barça’s interests first. I had two of them as players, and they are decisions one has to take. They are legends of Barcelona. Barça cannot be run with a computer; it is about feeling. Barça is above players and presidents,” Joan Laporta said, via Mundo Deportivo.

Alongside this, Laporta expanded on the reasons behind Xavi Hernández’s departure. He not only revealed that he had relaxed in his work, but also that he was dissatisfied with the squad and wanted to replace several players. With this, the former president made it clear that his priority has always been the team, and that he would make any decision necessary if it meant returning the club to a winning path and restoring its financial stability.

USL Championship TV Schedule The USL Championship TV schedule features a total of 34 games for each team. However, with some former USL Championship teams moving to MLS Next Pro, the quantity of teams is a nice round number of 25. Like past years, the 2026 USL Championship season features a total of 34 games […]

USL Championship TV Schedule

The USL Championship TV schedule features a total of 34 games for each team. However, with some former USL Championship teams moving to MLS Next Pro, the quantity of teams is a nice round number of 25.

Like past years, the 2026 USL Championship season features a total of 34 games for each team.

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The 2026 USL Championship season features a two-conference alignment consisting of 25 teams: 13 in the Eastern Conference and 12 in the Western Conference. Each club competes in a 34-match schedule, which includes 30 regular season league games and four group-stage matches in the Prinx Tires USL Cup.

To maintain regional rivalries, teams play their own conference opponents twice (once at home and once away). The remainder of the league schedule is filled by five or six inter-conference matchups against select teams from the opposite side of the bracket.

At the end of the 30-game regular season, the top eight teams from each conference qualify for the playoffs. The postseason follows a fixed-bracket, single-elimination format, culminating in the USL Championship Final to determine the league title.

Broadcast information

Ahead of the 2024 USL Championship season, the broadcasters in the United States for the league changed. ESPN, which had the rights previously, was still a regular for games. ESPN+ had games, with ESPN and ESPN2 also occasionally showing contests.

However, as part of the change, CBS got in on the action. That change meant games were available on TV channels like CBS, CBS Sports Network and the CBS Sports Golazo Network. Coverage was also available on Paramount+.

Select Spanish-language contests are available on TUDN.

We’re continually updating the USL Championship TV schedule throughout the season, so bookmark the page to watch for the latest listings.

MLS veteran and Apple TV commentator Brian Dunseth discusses his journey from being cut at age 12 to winning the U.S. Open Cup and balancing a manic broadcasting schedule with raising three soccer-playing sons.

Brian Dunseth has already staked out an unforgettable legacy as a soccer player, but now, he’s staking out a new legacy as a commentator.

Born in Upland, California, on March 2, 1977, Dunseth started playing for Upland Celtic, dominating against other teams in the state and eventually earning an invitation to a tournament in England. At 12 years of age, Dunseth faced off against teams from England, Denmark, and the Netherlands, and while he believed that he had done well enough to continue his progression, he was soon dealt a cold dose of reality. Immediately after heading back to the Golden State, Dunseth was cut from the squad.

“I was lucky enough to be playing at 12 years old for a Celtic team that smashed everybody in California. I mean, we were winning everything, so much so that we ended up going to England and playing teams from England, Holland, and Denmark. And at the end of that tournament, I was the only one on the team who got cut,” stated Dunseth in an exclusive World Soccer Talk interview.

“It was devastating, because my best friend’s dad was the team manager, these are all my friends, and all of a sudden, it was my first real failure in a protected environment. From that moment on, man, it was all I wanted. I continued to play all the other sports—basketball, baseball, football, all those things—and I was like, ‘You know what? Screw those guys. I’m gonna show those MFers.’ In my mind, I just locked in.”

Despite this early rejection, Dunseth didn’t give up on his dreams; instead, he grinded even harder. He started working alongside two ex-convicts, making $2.75 an hour as a dishwasher at a convalescent hospital, and excelled as Damien High School’s #10 before being one of the last players recruited to Cal State Fullerton, who agreed to pay for his parking, books, and one meal per day, but not his school expenses.

Dunseth transitioned from #10 to center back and kept his pedal to the metal, which eventually resulted in a breakthrough 1997. After representing the United States in Malaysia in the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship, Dunseth became one of the first players to sign a Project-40 (now Generation Adidas) contract, effectively fast-tracking him into MLS.

He was assigned to the New England Revolution and emerged as a key figure in defense before being traded to the Miami Fusion in 2001. However, his time in the 305 came to an abrupt end after the Fusion folded, with Dunseth being selected by the Columbus Crew in the 2002 MLS Dispersal Draft. He enjoyed the prime form of his career, helping them come within inches of the MLS Cup Final and winning the U.S. Open Cup, before being traded to the Dallas Burn (now FC Dallas) in September 2003.

“I always had seemed to find myself in situations and teams where I was good enough to play, but I wasn’t good enough to be on those consistent, winning teams that challenged for titles. I never felt in my professional career like I had a coach that really believed in me, like ‘that’s my guy.’ I mean this with the utmost respect, when you look at Bob Bradley, Bruce Arena, and Sigi Schmid, those three super iconic managers in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s of Major League Soccer, even the Dom Kinnears, the Frankie Yallops, I never had those type of coaches that just had blind faith in me, no matter what.

“I was their guy, and this was going to be a cultivated winning team. So when I got in that moment, I played in the first game at Crew Stadium with the New England Revolution. It was an amazing atmosphere: Brian McBride, Jeff Cunningham, Stern John, Brian Maisonneuve, all those guys… I’m frustrated, because we should have done the double. What people forget is that we ended up losing to the Revolution in the Eastern Conference Final to a Jay Heaps goal. We would have effectively played the Galaxy in the MLS Cup Final, and hosted the Galaxy in the Open Cup Final back-to-back within the same week. We were already devastated, we were frustrated, and the Galaxy had won the most important thing.”

“We didn’t care about it, and we smashed them from the opening whistle. And I remember spraying a ball out to Freddy ‘Cabeza de Hongo’ García; he ends up playing a ball back across to Brian West, back of the net. We end up winning 1-0. And what was cool about it at the time was Lamar Hunt. He was one of the most genuine human beings that you could possibly ever come across; he had invested in the club, he invested in Major League Soccer.

“To have the U.S. Open Cup trophy named after him, to be able to be up on that stage and get handed the trophy from the owner of the Columbus Crew in the first soccer-specific stadium with his name on it, it was really, really cool. And to be in those celebratory moments, to have him in the locker room with us, I can vividly remember going over to him and hugging him and saying, ‘Without you, these opportunities don’t exist. Without you, this moment is nothing more than a fantasy for a kid that grew up in Southern California with dreams and hopes and aspirations.’ I grew up trying to consume every bit of soccer in a world that’s not like today, when you can throw on Paramount Plus and have the opportunity to watch 80 games this afternoon. It was wild how much fun it was, both on and off the field, and the stories that will never be told… it was a really incredible moment.”

Dunseth spent just a few months in Texas before moving to Swedish side Bodens BK, returning after a year and spending a season with Real Salt Lake. He then bounced around from Chivas USA to the LA Galaxy, becoming the first-ever player in MLS history to be on the roster of seven different teams before retiring in 2006.

Similar to other Californians like Jordan Gardner, Dunseth continues to play a leading role in shaping American soccer culture, working for major outlets like Fox Soccer Channel, ESPN, SiriusXM, and NBC Sports and calling Real Salt Lake games for his local channel. And today, he’s serving as a commentator on Apple TV alongside Max Bretos, traveling across the country and announcing a number of different Major League Soccer matches.

“Usually, if it’s a West Coast game like Seattle, Portland, Salt Lake, or LAFC—those type of games—I’ll travel Saturday morning to the game just because it’s more efficient; I’ll gain that extra hour, call the game, come back first thing Sunday, and miss a majority of my kids’ soccer. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, I’ve got Counterattack with Tony Meola on SiriusXM FC; I’ll wake up at 6 and get the kids ready for school. Now my oldest is driving, I don’t have to worry about him; middle boy back to school, youngest to school; I’ll do the show from 8 to 11 local time. If I’m booked to do any appearances or podcasts, I’ll try to knock those out on Mondays. I have a podcast called ‘Week in the Tackle’ with Tom Rennie. He’s the Premier League announcer for TalkSport; he’s amazing, really, really talented, he does the football show on SiriusXM, and our podcast on ‘Week in the Tackle’ is usually recorded either Monday or Tuesday. Thursday I’ll do a local show, called Talking RSL, for one of the local television channels.”

“If I have any hosting commitments or any appearances sprinkled throughout there, Fridays are usually committed to doing SiriusXM in the morning, and then doing our preview conversations with coaches. In the midst of all of this, I’ve got three boys that are playing ECNL soccer, so I’m heavily invested in driving them to practices and staying at their practices and being there with them, because I miss out on a majority of their games. And in the mornings of those Saturdays, I’m usually glued to my computer or to my phone, logged in to the Hudl Cam to watch their games, and then communicate with them afterwards. I’ve been happily married for 20 years… there’s always something going on, there’s always something that we’re either driving to or trying to get to, with my kids so heavily committed to soccer.”

Although Real Madrid managed to secure their place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, they will face Manchester City with significant absences. Not only will Vinícius Jr. be without Kylian Mbappé, but another key player for Álvaro Arbeloa has now been added to the list of absentees.

After the victory against Benfica, Real Madrid secured a place in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. Despite this, they still have several absences ahead of their clash with Manchester City, with Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo being the most notable. Far from recovering players, Vinícius Jr. has now lost another key teammate for coach Álvaro Arbeloa, forcing the team to make significant rotations.

Just days before facing the Citizens, Álvaro Carreras was diagnosed with a muscle injury in the calf of his right leg, Real Madrid reported on their official website. While the club did not provide further details on his recovery timeline, Diario MARCA reveals that the Spanish defender could be sidelined for only one week, meaning he could still be available for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.

Despite only arriving at Los Blancos at the start of the season for €50 million, Carreras quickly established himself as the undisputed starter at left back. Not only does he contribute defensively, but he also offers a great deal creatively, making him one of the most complete players in his position. For this reason, his absence against Manchester City is quite significant, but coach Arbeloa already seems to have a replacement in mind.

According to Diario MARCA, coach Álvaro Arbeloa has decided to rely once again on Ferland Mendy, who recently recovered from a series of muscle injuries. With only 202 minutes played this season, the Frenchman’s potential start raises considerable uncertainty among fans. Nevertheless, the 30-year-old defender has proven to be a rock at the back, which could be crucial in countering Manchester City’s powerful attack.

Real Madrid’s Arbeloa reportedly set to bet on youngster in midfield

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have been hampered by injuries in defense and midfield, creating inconsistency in their performances. However, Jude Bellingham’s thigh injury has notably weakened the team. In response, coach Álvaro Arbeloa has decided to rely on two young academy players, but one of them has surprised with his level and is reportedly set to start against Manchester City.

While Jorge Cestero was one of the first youngsters to debut under Arbeloa, it has been Thiago Pitarch who has truly impressed with his performances. After playing against Benfica and getting minutes in LaLiga, he is now expected to start against Manchester City, according to Diario AS. If that happens, he would become ineligible to play in the UEFA Youth League with Juvenil A, as it would be his third appearance in the Champions League.

Inter Miami co-owner recently revealed to Bloomberg that he pays Lionel Messi in between $70M and $80M, opening questions over the biggest pay package the star has perceived over his career.

Lionel Messi‘s extraordinary performances on the soccer field have made him one of the highest-paid athletes in sports history, and even after leaving Europe behind, his earnings have kept climbing. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has revealed that the club pays the Argentine star somewhere in the range of $70 million to $80 million annually, raising the question of whether this represents the most lucrative deal of his career.

Inter Miami recently became the most valuable franchise in MLS history, according to Sportico’s 2026 rankings, with the club’s valuation reaching $1.45 billion. That financial structure, however, is built on far more than what happens on the pitch, with a range of commercial and business activities underpinning the club’s revenue model.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Mas offered a rare glimpse into the club’s finances, noting that sponsorships and commercial deals account for roughly 55% of Inter Miami‘s revenue. That commercial success has been fueled by the global appeal of world-class names like Luis Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul and, above all, Messi himself, while media rights make up just 2% of total revenue, according to the co-owner.

It was in that context that Mas dropped the headline figure. “The reason that I need to have sponsors and for them to be world class is because players are expensive. I pay Messi — worth every penny — but it’s $70 to $80 million a year. Across everything,” the Inter Miami co-owner said.

The MLSPA’s salary guide, released in October 2025 ahead of Messi’s contract extension through 2028, listed his base salary at $12 million and his guaranteed compensation at $20.5 million. Mas’ figure, however, takes a much broader view, encompassing not only salary but also equity rights and other forms of player compensation.

Is this Messi’s biggest deal in his club career?

Messi has long since transcended soccer to become a global brand in his own right, with business ventures spanning luxury hotels (MiM Hotels), his own clothing line (The Messi Store), sports drink brand Más+, and co-ownership of Uruguayan side Deportivo LSM alongside teammate Luis Suárez, among numerous other interests. But when it comes to direct compensation from his club, the numbers at Inter Miami are not quite unprecedented in his career.

In 2017, Messi signed what would turn out to be his final and most lucrative contract with FC Barcelona, running through June 2021. As revealed by El Mundo, the deal amounted to a total gross of 555,237,619 euros (around $673 million) over four seasons, working out to approximately €138.8M per year before taxes, or a net figure of around €74.9M annually (roughly $86.4 million), placing it above even the range Jorge Mas referenced for Messi’s current Inter Miami arrangement.

That contract was the largest in the history of soccer at the time it was signed. It incorporated a fixed salary, image rights, a series of unprecedented signing and loyalty bonuses, per diems and a wide range of performance-based incentives. Ultimately, the deal’s staggering financial weight contributed to Barcelona’s well-documented economic crisis, and played a central role in Messi’s abrupt and emotional departure from the club in 2021.

After winning the Champions League last season, PSG star Vitinha addressed the key difference between the current squad and the team when the attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé were still part of it.

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Neymar formed one of the most dangerous attacking combinations in recent soccer history at Paris Saint-Germain, yet their individual brilliance repeatedly failed to translate into collective European success. Now, with PSG finally having claimed the UEFA Champions League, squad star Vitinha has shed light on the key difference between that star-studded trio and the current crop of European champions.

The rationale behind assembling three of the world’s most expensive players was always to deliver Champions League glory, but across the two seasons the trio played together in 2021-22 and 2022-23, PSG failed to advance beyond the Round of 16 on both occasions. With all three since departed, a cohesive and tactically disciplined side built by Luis Enrique has delivered the trophy that Nasser Al-Khelaïfi’s project had long been chasing.

Speaking on the program Soltinhos pelo Mundo on Canal 11, Vitinha reflected warmly on sharing a locker room and a pitch with three of the most iconic forwards of the modern era: “It was a privilege to have shared a locker room and the pitch with them, to have learned from them. They really are players apart—they are extraterrestrials, they are stars, and they perceive things that we don’t.”

That admiration, however, came with a candid observation about where the arrangement fell short. “That doesn’t mean it’s always what’s best for the team. And that is what ended up happening. It’s very difficult when one, two, or three players don’t run or don’t help out on defense,” the midfielder stated.

Little has changed on that front for any of the three forwards since their time together in Paris. Messi and Neymar may be less relevant to the conversation given age and injury respectively, but Real Madrid have had to contend with the same issue from Mbappé this season. The reality is that, had the trio remained together, PSG’s defensive structure would have been carrying three significant voids from the front.

“Today’s game is increasingly competitive. Even a team fighting against relegation knows how to organize and make life difficult for the opponent. That makes it very hard in modern football when one, two, or three players aren’t running,” Vitinha added.

High pressing: PSG’s signature during the last Champions League

PSG caught the soccer world off guard in the second half of the 2024-25 season, emerging as one of the most compelling and fearsome sides in Europe through a combination of relentless intensity and technical quality spread across every line of the pitch. The numbers back it up: João Neves led the entire Champions League in ground covered, logging an extraordinary 106.17 miles (170.87 km) throughout the competition.

Vitinha, widely regarded as the second-best player at PSG behind Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, summed up what makes this incarnation of the club so different from its predecessor: “You see the wingers chasing down the fullbacks when they attack. You see Ousmane Dembélé and Gonçalo Ramos dropping back to defend in our own box and being the first ones to press high up the pitch.“

While a new venue has emerged, the Finalissima between Lionel Messi’s Argentina vs. Lamine Yamal’s Spain is reportedly nearing a final decision.

The Finalissima has been shrouded in uncertainty due to the ongoing situation in Qatar, with the highly anticipated clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal stuck in a prolonged state of limbo. As a new host venue has emerged as a frontrunner, the parties responsible for organizing the Argentina vs. Spain showdown are reportedly closing in on a final decision.

Given the proximity of the 2026 World Cup, all parties involved are keen to keep the Finalissima on its originally scheduled date of Friday, March 27. However, reports suggest Qatar has been reluctant to relinquish hosting rights, given the size of the commercial agreement already in place to stage the event in Doha.

Against that backdrop, RNE Deportes reports that a high-level meeting is set to take place on Monday to reach a definitive resolution. The meeting will bring together UEFA, representing Spain, CONMEBOL, representing Argentina, and representatives of the Qatari government, which has been a key stakeholder pushing to retain the match.

Estadio da Luz proposed as new Finalissima venue

Even though the situation in Qatar has not dramatically escalated since the incidents of early March, both continental confederations are prioritizing the safety and security of Messi, Yamal and all those who would need to travel to Doha, a city currently considered unsuitable for hosting the game. While Qatar would only walk away from its contractual obligations as a last resort, alternative venues have been actively surfacing.

According to the Spanish outlet, the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal, has emerged as the leading candidate to host the Finalissima. Rome’s Stadio Olimpico has also been put forward as a potential alternative, though the Lisbon option is understood to be well ahead in consideration.

In recent days, a number of other countries have been floated as possibilities, including the United States, Spain, Argentina and England. The U.S. has been ruled out given its direct involvement in the same regional tensions affecting Qatar, while staging the game in either Spain or Argentina has been dismissed due to the home advantage it would confer on one of the competing nations.

A return to Wembley, where Messi lifted the Finalissima trophy in the 2022 edition, was also floated as a sentimental option, but the March 27 date is already occupied by a Uruguay vs. England fixture at the stadium, making it unavailable. With a decision now imminent, all parties are aligned on one priority: ensuring the Finalissima goes ahead, with the venue set to be the defining topic on the table come Monday.

Former coach Xavi Hernandez revealed that Lionel Messi could've returned to Barcelona after winning the 2022 World Cup, but the move ended up being turned down by president Joan Laporta over a "power war" between the two.

Lionel Messi‘s departure from FC Barcelona in 2021 was one of the most painful moments in the club’s recent history, and both the player and the institution were eager to find a way to reunite. But former coach Xavi Hernández has now revealed that a return following Messi’s 2022 World Cup triumph was ultimately blocked by club president Joan Laporta, who feared it would trigger a “power war” he could not afford.

With Messi’s two-year deal at Paris Saint-Germain set to expire at the end of the 2022-23 season and his relationship with the club increasingly strained, the conditions for a return to Barcelona appeared to be falling into place. Xavi confirmed that contact was made over the possibility of bringing the Argentine back as a free agent, and that progress was being made until a significant obstacle emerged.

In an interview with La Vanguardia, Xavi directly challenged Laporta’s version of events: “That’s another instance where the president isn’t telling the truth. Leo was a done deal. In January 2023, after won the World Cup, since we have a great relationship, we got in touch and he told me he was excited about coming back—and I could see it happening. We spoke until March, and I told him, ‘Look, as soon as you give me the green light, I’ll tell the president, because from a football perspective, I see the fit.‘”

The former coach then described the moment the deal collapsed, pointing squarely at Laporta’s intervention in negotiations. “The president began negotiating the contract with Leo’s father, and his deal was done, we had the green light from LaLiga, but it was the president who pulled the plug on everything. Once again, he isn’t telling the truth,” the former Barcelona boss continued.

He went on to paint a vivid picture of how the situation unraveled in its final stages: “Then, suddenly, Leo stopped picking up my calls because, on the other side, they had told him it couldn’t be done. I called his father and said, ‘Jorge, this can’t be,’ and he told me, ‘Talk to the president,’ and the president told me that he wasn’t going to do it. I insisted to him that we had been talking to Leo for five months—it was done. There were no doubts on the pitch; economically, we were moving to Montjuïc and we were going to have a ‘Last Dance’ just like Michael Jordan’s. Everything was ready.“

Xavi ultimately concluded that Laporta’s reluctance came down to a fear of losing control of the club’s narrative, given his standing as the man who had rebuilt Barcelona from the brink of financial collapse. “Laporta told me, verbatim, that if Leo returned, it would ‘start a war’ that he couldn’t afford. That’s the truth, I’m not trying to lie to anyone, I have no interest in returning to Barca, nor with Victor Font’s candidacy.“

“Leo didn’t come to Barca because the president didn’t want him to. Not because of LaLiga, nor Jorge Messi asking for more money. That’s not true. It’s the president and his people who said he couldn’t afford it, that he has all the power and that power would be poorly managed with Messi around, that there would be a war,” he candidly stated.

Xavi Hernandez and a situation that affected his relationship with Messi

During the 2022-23 season, Xavi Hernández led Barcelona to the La Liga title and was the driving force behind efforts to bring Messi back for the following campaign. Had the move gone through, Messi would have been reunited with a close friend and former teammate who had already been a cornerstone of the Barca squad when the Argentine made his debut against Espanyol back in 2004.

The failure to secure that return, however, left a mark on one of soccer’s most storied friendships: “It took a heavy toll on my relationship with Leo. We spoke recently and we’re on good terms now, but for a while, he thought I was part of the scheme—that I had deceived him. That couldn’t be further from the truth. I was dying for Leo to come back.“

Though reluctant to elaborate on what Messi shared with him regarding the Barcelona presidential elections, Xavi made clear that, in his view, the Argentine could still make a meaningful contribution even today. “Even now, I still believe he would help the team score goals and provide that final ball, without a doubt. I mean, he’s about to play in another World Cup! Leo would have triumphed once again at the Camp Nou; it was his dream and mine, and he knows that now. It was a shame, but it was because of those currently in charge,” he concluded.

After Real Madrid's lackluster performances, Rodri Hernández's potential arrival from Manchester City was considered as a solid midfield reinforcement. Nevertheless, Kylian Mbappé's team reportedly ruled out pursuing him, opting instead for a young Premier League talent.

Following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Real Madrid have struggled to find the right balance in midfield, as the exits of Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos seem to have disrupted the squad’s structure. Amid their underwhelming performances, Rodri Hernández of Manchester City emerged as a potential reinforcement. However, Kylian Mbappe’s team reportedly decided against pursuing his signing, opting instead to target a young Premier League star.

According to José Félix Díaz of Diario AS, Real Madrid are not interested in signing Rodri Hernández from Manchester City. Despite approaching the final year of his contract, the Spanish midfielder is expected to renew with the Citizens, as Los Blancos reportedly have serious doubts about his level following the serious injury he suffered. While he may be close to regaining his best form, his age—29—also raises concerns about pursuing the transfer.

Coupled with this, Antonio Hernández, Rodri‘s father, disclosed the intentions of the 29-year-old star during the National Sports Awards ceremony: “He is very happy where he is. You will understand the natural discretion in these circumstances. I don’t know anything, and I truly mean that. I don’t know anything—the story still has to be written… He’s desperate to go to the World Cup.” With this in mind, Pep Guardiola could soon secure his stellar midfielder.

Instead of pursuing Rodri Hernandez, Los Blancos are preparing to enter the bidding for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, reports Diario AS. The Englishman has established as one of the most consistent players in the Premier League. Not only does he shine defensively, but he also has a quality with the ball that resembles the Spaniard’s style. Despite this, Real Madrid would have to pay more than €100 million for his transfer, other Premier League teams are also pursuing him.

Not only Wharton: Real Madrid reportedly target three other midfielders

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled with the absence of midfielders capable of organizing play, as Jude Bellingham has not managed to shine in that aspect. In response, the emergence of Adam Wharton appears ideal, as he contributes defensively while also helping build play. However, they reportedly have two alternative options to the Englishman, as they seem determined to sign a new midfielder.

According to José Félix Díaz of Diario AS, Los Blancos are also targeting Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar and Vitinha from PSG. While the Portuguese midfielder has expressed his desire to remain with the French club, Real Madrid are looking to convince him. The Dutchman is different a situation as he would be open to joining the club, but his transfer fee could exceed €50 million due to his exceptional potential growth.

Not only Vitinha and Kees Smit are being followed as Real Madrid are also reportedly considering the return of Nico Paz by activating their €9 million buyback clause. With the possible arrival of new reinforcement, they could shift to a system with four midfielders, with one of them playing as an attacking midfielder: Jude Bellingham. Therefore, the new signing would likely operate closer to the base of play, taking responsibility for organizing the midfield.

After scoring against Athletic Club, Lamine Yamal has now reached the 50-goal milestone two years earlier than legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Lamine Yamal has been reshaping the boundaries of what is possible in world soccer since his sudden emergence in Barcelona‘s first team as a teenager, shattering records once thought untouchable. The Spanish winger has added another chapter to his remarkable story, reaching the 50-goal milestone at a younger age than both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Back in action following their Copa del Rey elimination at the hands of Atlético Madrid, Barcelona needed to refocus quickly to maintain their grip on the La Liga title race. The Blaugrana traveled to San Mamés on Saturday to face Athletic Club, and it was Yamal who provided the decisive moment, curling home a composed finish in the 68th minute after a perfectly weighted pass from Pedri to secure a 1-0 victory.

That goal against Bilbao took Lamine Yamal to 50 career goals at just 18 years and 237 days old. The breakdown includes 44 goals for Barcelona across all competitions and six more while representing the Spain national team.

For context, Lionel Messi reached the same milestone in 2008 at the age of 20 years and 315 days, more than two full years older than Yamal was on Saturday. Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time leading scorer in soccer history, netted his 50th career goal in 2007 at 21 years and 297 days old, nearly three years later than the mark Yamal has now set.

At club level, Yamal has scored 44 goals in 142 games for Barcelona since making his debut at 15 years old. Those goals span every competition he has featured in for the Blaugrana: 28 in La Liga, eight in the UEFA Champions League, five in the Copa del Rey and three in the Spanish Super Cup.

At international level, his six goals for Spain are spread across three competitions: three in the UEFA Nations League, two in the Euro qualifiers and one in the EUROs themselves. Yamal was absent from Spain’s World Cup qualifying campaign during the October and November windows, meaning he has yet to score in that competition, but the upcoming tournament in June will give him the opportunity to add yet another to his tally.

Yamal through his best goalscoring season

Despite the midweek Copa del Rey exit, Barcelona remain one of the most formidable sides in Europe and remain firmly in contention for Champions League glory. In Hansi Flick’s second season in charge, Yamal has been one of the primary driving forces behind the Blaugrana‘s La Liga surge, as they currently lead the table with 67 points, four clear of Real Madrid.

Saturday’s goal was his 19th of the season in all competitions, adding to 15 assists in 36 games and making it comfortably his most prolific campaign to date. His previous best was 18 goals across 55 games last season, and with at least 13 matches still to play, not accounting for potential Champions League progression, Yamal is well-placed to surpass that mark.

Early in his career, Yamal was viewed primarily as a creator rather than a finisher, with his goalscoring rate cited as one of the few areas for improvement. Ten goals in his last 11 games has put that notion firmly to rest. With Ronaldo sitting on 965 career goals and Messi on 899, it may be too early to speculate about those kinds of numbers, but at the rate Yamal is going, the question is at least worth asking.

Benfica and Porto face off today on Matchday 25 of the 2025–26 Primeira Liga, with both teams seeking a crucial victory to solidify their objectives. With that in mind, we will follow the game minute by minute, providing live updates.

As leaders of the 2025–26 Primeira Liga, Porto entered the match as clear favorites against Benfica. Not only had they dominated defensively, but they had also been very dangerous offensively. In contrast, José Mourinho’s side came into the game as the underdogs, yet they managed to make a difference going forward throughout the match. However, it was halftime that ultimately changed the course of the draw.

Even though coach Francesco Farioli opted for a defensive strategy, Porto still managed to shine offensively. Taking advantage of Benfica’s high press, they were efficient on the counterattack, exploiting the midfield’s struggles. As a result, Victor Froholdt and Oskar Pietuszewski stood out, scoring the two goals in the first half. Despite this, they faced significant difficulties in the second half.

⚽ GOLO
O. Pietuszewski 40'
I Liga (#25) | Benfica 0-(2) FC Porto#LigaPortugalBetclic #VSPORTSLPBETCLIC #EPOCA2526 #JORNADA25 #SLBFCP #SLB #FCP
Todos os vídeos 👉 https://t.co/QhBlIEF8G8 pic.twitter.com/2SCkKBZX24

— VSPORTS (@vsports_pt) March 8, 2026

Despite consistently shining in attack, Benfica looked very weak defensively. Their high press was effective going forward, but it left Nicolás Otamendi and Tomás Araújo exposed, which led to the two goals conceded. However, José Mourinho completely transformed the team in the second half, taking advantage of two key changes from Porto that caused them to lose control of the match.

After the departures of Gabri Veiga and Oskar Pietuszewski, Porto lost their threat on the counterattack, struggling to find through passes against Benfica’s defense. In response, coach José Mourinho opted to bring on Franjo Ivanović and Dodi Lukebakio, who transformed the attack. Not only did they inject freshness into the team, but they also helped distribute the play, with Andreas Schjelderup eventually scoring to lift the team’s spirits.

⚽ GOLO
Schjelderup 69'
I Liga (#25) | Benfica (1)-2 FC Porto#LigaPortugalBetclic #VSPORTSLPBETCLIC #EPOCA2526 #JORNADA25 #SLBFCP #SLB #FCP
Todos os vídeos 👉 https://t.co/QhBlIEF8G8 pic.twitter.com/inOTNffTF1

— VSPORTS (@vsports_pt) March 8, 2026

Far from ending their offensive revolution there, Benfica regained control of the ball and kept looking to break through Porto’s defense. While coach Farioli’s strategy held for a long time, Ivanović eventually managed to crack it. After a run to the byline, with Bah playing a key one-two, he found Leandro Barreiro alone in the box and delivered the pass. The 26-year-old midfielder finished with composure, equalizing the match in the 89th minute.

⚽ GOLO
Leandro Barreiro 88'
I Liga (#25) | Benfica (2)-2 FC Porto#LigaPortugalBetclic #VSPORTSLPBETCLIC #EPOCA2526 #JORNADA25 #SLBFCP #SLB #FCP
Todos os vídeos 👉 https://t.co/QhBlIEF8G8 pic.twitter.com/4qqG1bdmHc

— VSPORTS (@vsports_pt) March 8, 2026

Lionel Messi "effect" in the MLS keeps on going as star has now set back-to-back away attendance records in the first two 2026 MLS games with Inter Miami.

Now in his fourth MLS season since arriving in 2023, Lionel Messi continues to prove that the excitement surrounding him shows no signs of cooling off. With the 2026 campaign barely underway, the Inter Miami star has already set back-to-back away attendance records in the opening two matchdays of the season.

To launch the 2026 season, MLS arranged a marquee Matchday 1 showdown between LAFC and Inter Miami, bringing together two of the league’s biggest global stars in Son Heung-min and Messi on the same night. Seizing the moment, LAFC relocated the match from their regular home at BMO Stadium to the iconic LA Memorial Coliseum, a decision that more than justified itself.

The February 21 clash drew a crowd of 75,673 to the Coliseum to watch what turned into a dominant 3-0 home victory. The attendance set the record for the largest crowd at an MLS season opener, while also contributing to the biggest opening weekend attendance in league history, and ranking as the second-largest crowd ever recorded for a regular-season MLS match.

D.C. United took a similar approach, moving their home game against Inter Miami from the 20,000-capacity Audi Field to M&T Bank Stadium, home of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. The result was a crowd of 72,026 on Saturday, not only the largest in D.C. United’s history as one of the league’s founding clubs, but the biggest ever recorded at that venue.

The previous M&T Bank Stadium record had stood since January 15, 2012, when 71,547 fans packed the building for the Ravens’ 2011 AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Houston Texans, a 20-13 Baltimore victory that stood as the largest crowd in franchise history. Messi has now surpassed that mark after more than 14 years, a reminder that his influence on sport extends well beyond the soccer field.

Will Messi break another consecutive attendance record in the MLS?

Inter Miami will briefly shift their attention away from league play, with the first leg of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 against Nashville SC at Geodis Park coming up on Wednesday. But the next MLS attendance test is already on the horizon, with the Herons set to visit Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday, March 14 for Matchday 3.

That fixture presents another opportunity for Messi to extend his remarkable away attendance streak. Bank of America Stadium holds 74,867 fans, and the venue record stands at 74,479, set during Charlotte FC’s inaugural home match against the LA Galaxy on March 5, 2022. Eclipsing that mark, however, will be far from straightforward.

In recent seasons, Charlotte have maintained a policy of limiting MLS regular-season games to a lower-bowl sellout rather than opening the full stadium, and that approach has applied to Messi’s visits as well. In 2025, for example, just 35,000 tickets were made available for his appearance. The only time Charlotte opened the full stadium for a Messi game, it drew 66,101, suggesting that unless the club changes its approach, the Argentine’s remarkable streak of away attendance records could come to an end.

After the match against CD Osasuna, Kylian Mbappé was diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee, which would rule him out of France’s upcoming matches. Despite this, he has reportedly made a surprising decision regarding the national team for a clear reason.

Kylian Mbappé has remained Real Madrid’s most in-form player, leading the team’s scoring ahead of Vinícius Jr. However, the French star was diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee, which appears likely to sideline him for several matches. As a result, Kylian could miss France’s upcoming international friendly doubleheader. Nevertheless, he has reportedly made a surprising decision regarding the national team despite his injury recovery.

According to Diario AS, Mbappé will not be able to take part in France’s friendlies against Brazil and Colombia, as he is not expected to recover in time. Despite this, the 27-year-old striker will travel with the national team to the United States, remaining part of the delegation while continuing his recovery process. This decision is due to commercial commitments with sponsors, which would require his presence.

Unlike other national teams, Kylian renegotiated his image rights with the French Football Federation (FFF) alongside his teammates around 2022 and 2023, according to L’Équipe. For this reason, Mbappé could be required to join the national team, as he may have taken on greater responsibilities under this new agreement. Despite this, the 27-year-old striker remains focused on continuing his recovery from the sprain in his left knee.

Kylian Mbappé’s recovery remains shrouded in uncertainty

Just days after announcing the sprain in his left knee, Kylian Mbappé, together with Real Madrid’s medical staff, consulted a doctor in Paris to obtain a more precise evaluation of the injury. Following this, he was reportedly diagnosed with a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament, according to Antón Meana. However, Los Blancos have reportedly rejected the accuracy of this information, maintaining their original diagnosis.

Far from helping to clarify the situation, this conflicting information has only served to confuse fans even more. If Kylian only has a sprain, he could be back soon, facing Manchester City in the second leg. However, in case he has a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament, he would be out for most of the season, arriving just in time for the 2026 World Cup. Furthermore, Real Madrid have not released any new official updates on his recovery status.

Unlike earlier reports, Kylian Mbappé’s return to the pitch is generating optimism at Real Madrid. According to MARCA, the French star remains committed to his recovery at Valdebebas and still has two sessions scheduled on Monday, March 9, and Tuesday, March 10, to prove that he is in full fitness. In addition, his recovery has reportedly been progressing very positively, giving Los Blancos reason for optimism.

After getting knocked out of the FA Cup by Premier League side Chelsea, Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds issued an encouraging message to Wrexham.

Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were in the stands at Racecourse Ground to watch Wrexham‘s FA Cup run come to an end against Chelsea, as the Blues ended what had been a memorable campaign for the Red Dragons. In the aftermath, Reynolds took to social media to send an uplifting message to his team and its fans.

While also chasing promotion to the Premier League, Wrexham had put together an impressive FA Cup run, reaching the fifth round for the first time in 29 years after knocking out top-flight side Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town. Tuesday’s clash with Chelsea, the reigning Club World Cup champions, represented arguably the biggest test the club has faced since Reynolds and McElhenney took over, with a quarterfinal berth up for grabs.

Wrexham led twice at Racecourse Ground, but Chelsea fought back to level it at 2-2, and a red card shown to George Dobson in the 90th-plus third minute proved to be the turning point. In extra time, the Premier League side took advantage of the numerical superiority to go ahead 3-2, and after a Wrexham equalizer was chalked off by VAR, Chelsea sealed the tie at 4-2.

Despite the defeat, Reynolds turned to his X account to celebrate the progress his club has made “Three years ago this week, we battled Maidenhead United to a draw. Today we pushed Chelsea to extra time. So incredibly proud of Wrexham’s performance today.“

The post referenced a match played on March 4, 2023, when Wrexham traveled to York Road, a stadium with a capacity of just 4,500, to face Maidenhead United in the National League, ending in a 2-2 draw while still outside the English Football League. Fast-forward to today, and the Red Dragons are competing toe-to-toe with some of the best clubs in world soccer.

A first look at VAR

Having already eliminated Forest and Ipswich Town along the way, Wrexham encountered VAR for the first time in this cup run, as the technology is introduced from the fifth round onwards. Two key interventions tilted the tie against the Red Dragons: Dobson’s yellow card was upgraded to a red following a VAR review, and a Lewis Brunt goal that would have leveled the match at 3-3 was disallowed for a marginal offside call on his left foot.

In his post-match press conference, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson defended his side’s performance. “In the second half I think we were the better team and I was confident we were going to win,” he said, before turning to the red card to Dobson: “The referee gave a yellow. I’m not sure of the rules, it’s the first time we’ve had VAR and it has to be clear and obvious to overturn it. I think the referee could have just kept it at a yellow.“

Parkinson also reflected on the opportunities that arose in extra time despite being a man down. “I said at the break in extra time there are still going to be chances for us. Unfortunately we didn’t take one but we have to take a lot of heart from that performance. It’s been a great cup run. Tonight was a great spectacle and we were competitive against a very good side. We will take a lot of positives from it,” he concluded.

What’s next for Wrexham?

With the FA Cup behind them, Wrexham can now channel all of their energy into the EFL Championship and the promotion push they have been building toward all season. The Red Dragons currently sit sixth in the table with 57 points from 35 games, firmly inside the playoff places and riding a strong run of nine wins, two draws and two defeats from their last 13 matches.

Next up is a pivotal six-pointer at home against Hull City on Tuesday, March 10 at Racecourse Ground. The Tigers are fifth with 60 points from 36 games, one spot and three points ahead of Wrexham, but with the Red Dragons holding a superior goal difference, a home win would be enough to leapfrog Hull and move them into the top five.

AC Milan clashes with Inter Milan during Matchday 28 of the 2025/2026 Serie A campaign. Supporters in the United States can find here the complete kickoff schedules and broadcast details available for both television coverage and streaming services.

Match Overview

The Derby della Madonnina returns this weekend with major implications in the Serie A title race as Inter Milan and AC Milan collide in one of Italy’s fiercest rivalries. Inter enter the showdown leading the standings with 67 points and holding a 10-point edge over their city rivals

The Nareazzurri sit on 57 and need a victory to keep their championship hopes alive. A win for Inter would tighten their grip on first place, while Milan sees this clash as a must-win moment to close the gap—don’t miss this high-stakes battle between two historic clubs.

Benfica and Porto face off on Matchday 25 of the 2025–26 Primeira Liga. While José Mourinho’s side aims to close the gap in the standings, Francesco Farioli’s team is looking to extend its lead at the top of the table. Here are the predicted lineups for both sides.

Although SL Benfica managed to look quite competitive against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, their reality in the 2025–26 Primeira Liga is completely different. With 58 points, they remain seven points behind the leaders, sitting in the Europa League qualification spots. Because of this, Benfica face Porto today, the current leaders, looking to reduce the gap. However, they do not have an easy task.

Porto have managed to remain the most dominant team in the league, being the most balanced side overall. Despite the ACL injury to top scorer Samu Aghehowa, coach Francesco Farioli has managed to maintain his team’s winning form, relying on Deniz Gül, supported by Oskar Pietuszewski and Pepê. However, the contribution of Gabri Veiga is expected to be decisive, as he has been the most outstanding player at a creative level.

Despite the defeat against Real Madrid, coach José Mourinho has managed to maintain a strong winning run with Benfica, coming off four consecutive victories. For this, the scoring contribution of Vangelis Pavlidis has been vital, as he has 20 goals in the Primeira Liga. However, their strength is based on the solidity of their midfield. In addition, Andreas Schjelderup is expected to be a difference-maker with his dribbling ability.

Far from being just another match, Benfica and Porto arrive with the urgency of securing victory in the game. While Mourinho’s side are looking to move closer to the Champions League spots, Farioli’s team aim to increase the gap over Sporting Lisbon, who are just three points behind them, putting their lead at risk. For this reason, both teams are expected to field their strongest lineups, promising a highly competitive clash.

Benfica confirmed lineup vs. Porto

Even though Benfica arrive in strong winning form, they head into the match against Porto with two key absences: Georgiy Sudakov and Fredrik Aursnes. In addition, Bruma and João Veloso remain doubtful due to physical issues. Because of this, coach José Mourinho has included Richard Ríos in midfield alongside Enzo Barrenechea. Alongside this, he’s kept a lineup quite similar to recent matches, looking to maintain the team’s good form.

With this in mind, Benfica jumps to the pitch with the next XI: Anatoliy Trubin; Amar Dedić, Tomás Araújo, Nicolas Otamendi, Samuel Dahl; Richard Rios, Enzo Barrenechea; Gianluca Prestianni, Rafa Silva, Andreas Schjelderup; Vangelis Pavlidis.

Porto confirmed lineup vs. Benfica

Like Benfica, Porto arrive at today’s match with three key absences: Samu Aghehowa, Luuk de Jong, and Nehuén Pérez. However, coach Francesco Farioli still has impressive roster depth, which should allow the team to remain highly competitive. Led by Gabri Veiga, Victor Froholdt, and Pepê, they will look to dominate offensively. In addition, Rodrigo Mora could make the difference coming off the bench.

Considering this, Porto’s lineup goes as follows: Diogo Costa; Alberto Costa, Jan Bednarek, Jakub Kiwior, Martim Fernandes; Alan Varela, Victor Froholdt, Gabri Veiga; Pepê, Deniz Gul, Oskar Pietuszewski.

Benfica and FC Porto meet in a Matchday 25 showdown during the 2025/2026 Primeira Liga season. Here you can find full match information, including kickoff time and details on how to watch the game on TV or through available streaming platforms.

Match Overview

With the Primeira Liga title race heating up, Benfica head into a massive rivalry clash with Porto needing a victory to keep their championship hopes firmly alive. Benfica currently sit seven points behind the league leaders, meaning anything less than three points would make the road to the title significantly tougher.

Meanwhile, Porto enter the weekend on top of the table with 65 points, holding a four-point advantage over Sporting CP and looking to strengthen their grip on first place with another statement win in one of Portugal’s most intense derbies. With pride, pressure, and the title race all on the line, this showdown promises high drama.

After dominating Serie A, AC Milan and Inter Milan face off in an exciting derby, where the Rossoneri will be looking to close the gap on the leaders. To this end, fans are keeping a close eye on Christian Pulisic's condition ahead of the game.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, AC Milan and Inter Milan have dominated Serie A convincingly. While the Nerazzurri have managed to remain league leaders, Massimiliano Allegri’s side are following closely behind Because of this, they face each other today in an exciting derby, with both teams looking to move closer to the league title. Given the Rossoneri’s need to secure a victory, they are closely monitoring Christian Pulisic’s fitness ahead of the match.

Following returning from his injury, Christian Pulisic has managed to stay in full physical condition, avoiding any relapses. For this reason, the USMNT star will start against Inter Milan, as he remains one of the team’s most important players. Although he is not currently in his best form, he could look to make this match his triumphant return to his top level, which could make him decisive.

Alongside the USMNT star, coach Allegri will rely on Rafael Leão, a duo that has proven to be quite effective throughout the season. However, Christopher Nkunku could have a key role off the bench, something he has often done in recent matches. In addition, Adrien Rabiot will once again be a decisive factor in organizing the attack, looking to be influential against the Nerazzurri.

Inter Milan remain the sole leaders of Serie A, holding a 10-point advantage over AC Milan. Despite this, they face growing pressure, as they were recently eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Bodø Glimt, meaning fans may not accept another defeat. In addition, coach Cristian Chivu’s position could be at risk, as he lost the last derby — something that has raised concerns among supporters.

AC Milan lineup vs. Inter Milan

Despite Christian Pulisic being in full physical condition, AC Milan still have three significant absences for the match against Inter Milan: Matteo Gabbia, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Santiago Gimenez. Because of this, coach Massimiliano Allegri will aim to keep a lineup quite similar to that of previous games, relying on Rabiot, Luka Modric and Youssouf Fofana in midfield. In addition, Strahinja Pavlovic will lead again the defense.

With this in mind, the Rossoneri will play as follows: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Koni De Winter, Strahinja Pavlovic; Alexis Saelemaekers, Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Pervis Estupiñan; Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic.

Inter Milan lineup vs. AC Milan

Not only AC Milan face major absences, as Inter Milan will also be without their top scorer Lautaro Martínez due to a calf injury. Because of this, coach Cristian Chivu will rely on Ange-Yoan Bonny and Pio Esposito. Alongside this, the Nerazzurri will maintain their consistency in midfield, keeping Henrik Mkhitaryan, Piotr Zielinski and Nicolò Barella. With this, they aim to secure a victory to consolidate their lead at the top of the table.

Considering this, the Nerazzurri will lineup as follows: Yann Sommer; Yann Bisseck, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Nicolo Barella, Piotr Zielinski, Henrik Mkhitaryan; Federico Dimarco; Marcus Thuram, Pio Esposito.

Rangers FC and Celtic FC clash in the quarterfinal round of the 2025/2026 Scottish Cup. Fans in the United States can learn here the date, venue, kickoff time, and the TV or streaming options available to follow the match live.

Match Overview

The stakes couldn’t be higher when Celtic and Rangers collide once again in the legendary Old Firm, a showdown that feels like a semifinal before the actual semifinal. The Glasgow rivals have been separated by the slimmest margin all season in the Scottish Premiership standings, with Celtic holding 58 points and Rangers right behind at 57.

The situation of both makes this clash a true toss-up between two sides carrying similar momentum. With a spot in the next round on the line and pride always part of the equation in this rivalry, expect intensity from the opening whistle—this is the kind of match fans won’t want to miss.

Atlas receive Chivas during Matchday 10 of the Liga MX Liga MX Clausura 2026 season. Below is all the essential information ahead of this matchup, including kickoff times and complete broadcast coverage for TV and streaming options available in the United States.

Match Overview

One of Mexican soccer’s fiercest rivalries returns this weekend in Liga MX as Chivas Guadalajara and Atlas renew the heated Derby Tapatio with both sides chasing crucial points. Chivas opened the campaign with six straight wins but have stumbled with back-to-back losses to Cruz Azul and Toluca.

These results increase the urgency to rebound and stay near the top of the table. Atlas arrive with momentum after a key victory over Club Tijuana lifted them to 16 points, setting the stage for another high-stakes showdown between Guadalajara rivals determined to strengthen their place in the standings.

If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full DirecTV Stream soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.

Inter Miami defeated DC United 2-1 in Major League Soccer, with Lionel Messi contributing one of the goals.

This Saturday, Inter Miami secured their second consecutive victory of the 2026 MLS season with a 2-1 win over DC United in Baltimore. Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring, while Lionel Messi extended the lead with his 899th career goal.

From the start, the roles of both teams were clear. Inter Miami quickly imposed their style and dominated possession, forcing their opponents to sit back and rely on counterattacks to try to create chances. However, the hosts struggled to do so and failed to neutralize the strengths of the Herons.

The opener came in the 17th minute, when German Berterame recovered the ball near the opponent’s box. The Mexican forward quickly passed to Telasco Segovia, who set up Rodrigo De Paul to comfortably control the ball and finish with a precise right-footed strike.

Not satisfied with just one, Inter Miami went for more 10 minutes later. Mateo Silvetti assisted Lionel Messi, who controlled the ball inside the box and delicately finished over goalkeeper Sean Johnson.

Silvetti. Messi. 2-0.

Pure class from Miami in Baltimore. 😍 pic.twitter.com/9IpJdGyPUi

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 7, 2026

After halftime, the visitors seemed to relax, confident in their two-goal advantage. DC United took advantage, creating several chances until Tai Baribo capitalized on a rebound inside the box to cut the deficit. In the final minutes, the Herons faced tense moments but held on for an important win to climb the standings.

When can Messi score his 900th goal?

Having reached just one goal shy of 900 in his professional career, Lionel Messi will soon have the chance to hit that milestone. On Wednesday, Inter Miami are set to visit Nashville SC for the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Concacaf Champions Cup, while next Saturday they will face Charlotte FC in MLS play.

Barcelona face Athletic Club in La Liga, and Robert Lewandowski drew attention for wearing a mask covering part of his face.

Barcelona have a key La Liga 2025-26 match this Saturday against Athletic Club, as a victory would allow them to maintain their four-point lead over Real Madrid in the standings. Robert Lewandowski started the game on the bench, with a peculiar detail in his appearance.

The Polish forward is wearing a mask that covers part of his face as a precaution to prevent impacts in that area. This is due to a heavy blow he suffered to the head during last Saturday’s match against Villarreal, which caused a bone fracture in the inner part of his left eye socket.

The injury kept Lewandowski out of the second leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atletico Madrid last Tuesday, where Barcelona won 3-0 but failed to advance to the final after losing 4-0 in the first leg in Madrid.

After a few days of recovery from that blow, the 37-year-old is now fit to return to the field, but he must do so wearing the mask to avoid any impacts that could worsen the injury. In fact, during training sessions with his teammates over the week, he had to follow the same precaution.

𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐔𝐏 🔵🔴#AthleticBarça pic.twitter.com/QGyVkYBxEn

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 7, 2026

Interestingly, Barcelona already had a player this season who had to play with a protective mask. Eric Garcia, in November 2025, suffered a facial blow that caused a nasal fracture during a UEFA Champions League match against Club Brugge, forcing him to wear protection for several games.

Lewandowski has worn a mask before

During his years with Bayern Munich, Robert Lewandowski faced a similar situation. In the 2014-15 season, a fracture of the nose and jaw forced the forward to wear a mask to return to official action sooner than expected. At that time, he played five matches with the mask and scored two goals.

“I remember perfectly when I had to wear a mask, and it wasn’t pleasant,” Lewandowski said years later, according to Mundo Deportivo. “It was a tough challenge for me. I don’t remember playing well with the mask.”

He explained why playing with the mask made it difficult to perform on the field: “It’s hard, especially for forwards who play around the box. I remember having trouble reacting and seeing the ball and the opponents clearly.”

Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann has been the subject of rumors about a possible move to Orlando City in Major League Soccer.

After weeks of speculation, it has been confirmed that Antoine Griezmann will remain at Atletico Madrid this season. However, the possibility of a move to Major League Soccer to play for Orlando City remains on the table.

The Florida club’s interest was concrete, and reportedly there were negotiations to make the deal happen before the MLS transfer window closed on March 26. However, that would have meant leaving Atletico Madrid in the middle of the 2025-26 season, just ahead of the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad and with the UEFA Champions League in full swing.

Given this context, Los Colchoneros decided to keep the French forward, a decision confirmed by the sporting director. “He has a contract, he’s going to stay with us. He has this season and two more,” Mateu Alemany said on Saturday according to Marca. “He’s going to be with us, he’s going to continue, and nothing else.”

Alemany also highlighted Griezmann’s contribution to the team this season, with 12 goals and 2 assists in 38 matches across all competitions. “Antoine is in extraordinary form, he’s playing some outstanding matches. Fans will applaud him as always. He’s delivering spectacular performances, and that’s the most important thing,” said the sporting director.

Orlando City remain a possibility for Griezmann

Even though Mateu Alemany’s words put an end to speculation about a mid-season exit from Atletico Madrid, the possibility of Antoine Griezmann moving to MLS in the near future remains high.

“Orlando City remain in talks over FREE transfer in July for Griezmann, focus on the summer window now,” reported Fabrizio Romano on his official X account shortly after Alemany’s statements.

The conditions of a potential MLS move are not minor in this case. Griezmann is under contract with Atletico Madrid until June 30, 2027, meaning any early exit would require approval from the Spanish club. In that scenario, they could insist on a transfer fee in exchange for terminating the contract. Orlando City’s negotiations, as well as the player’s own intentions, could be key to securing a free transfer.

Griezmann could leave with a trophy from Atletico Madrid

Over the last decade, Antoine Griezmann has developed a special bond with Atletico Madrid. He joined the club from Real Sociedad in 2014 and, aside from a brief spell with Barcelona between 2019 and 2022, has remained a key player for the team.

The French forward was not part of the two La Liga titles Atletico Madrid won under coach Diego Simeone: he arrived just after the 2014 trophy and was at Barcelona when the club won the next one in 2021. However, he did contribute to the Spanish Super Cup 2014, UEFA Europa League 2018, and UEFA Super Cup 2018 victories.

This season, Atletico Madrid are close to winning another trophy, as they will play the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad. They also remain in contention in the UEFA Champions League, where they will face Tottenham in the round of 16. That means Griezmann has two opportunities to win another title with the club before potentially making his move to MLS.

Inter Miami visit DC United in Major League Soccer, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi.

This Saturday marks the start of Matchday 3 of the Major League Soccer season, with Inter Miami looking for another win to continue climbing the Eastern Conference standings. Their opponent will be DC United, who will host the match at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, where a full crowd is expected due to the excitement surrounding Lionel Messi.

The Argentine forward played in the first two games of the season: a loss to Los Angeles FC in the opener and a victory last Sunday against Orlando City SC, where he scored a brace. Now Inter Miami have the chance to secure another win and reinforce their status as favorites to repeat as 2025 champions.

DC United have had an identical start to the season. They opened at home with a 1-0 win over Philadelphia Union, but could not repeat that performance in their second match, falling by the same scoreline to Austin FC last Sunday. They now face the challenge of containing one of the most talented teams in MLS.

Confirmed lineup for Inter Miami

The performance shown by Inter Miami in their second game of the season was noticeably better than in their opener against Los Angeles FC. For that reason, head coach Javier Mascherano is opting to stick with most of the starting lineup.

Inter Miami’s confirmed XI against DC United is: Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Maximiliano Falcon, Micael Silva, Noah Allen; Mateo Silvetti, Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, German Berterame.

Confirmed lineup for DC United

Unlike most matches this season, DC United are expected to focus primarily on limiting their opponent’s strengths. Head coach Rene Weiler made that clear when asked how to stop Messi. “The key is not giving him space and defending well as a team,” he said.

With that in mind, DC United’s confirmed lineup to face Inter Miami is: Sean Johnson; Silvan Hefti, Lucas Bartlett, Kye Rowles, Keisuke Kurokawa; Joao Peglow, Brandon Servania, Matti Peltola, Jackson Hopkins; Gabriel Pirani, Tai Baribo.

DC United host Inter Miami CF in a 2026 Major League Soccer regular-season clash. Discover the full information about this matchup, including the date, venue, and broadcast options to watch the action live across the United States.

Match Overview

Momentum will be on the line when Inter Miami and DC United meet after nearly identical starts to the MLS season. DC United opened with a 1-0 win over Philadelphia Union before falling by the same score to Austin FC.

Meanwhile, Inter Miami rebounded from an opening loss to Los Angeles FC by defeating Orlando City SC 4-2 in the Florida Derby behind a standout performance from Lionel Messi. With both clubs looking to build early-season momentum, this matchup promises intensity —make sure you don’t miss it.

It took extra time, but Chelsea secured its spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals, narrowly defeating Wrexham 4‑2 at the Racecourse Ground.

Cup competitions are built on nights like this. The lights are brighter, the crowd louder, and belief grows with every minute the underdog stays alive. At the Racecourse Ground, the atmosphere crackled with that familiar FA Cup magic as Wrexham pushed one of England’s giants, Chelsea, to the brink.

For long spells it felt as if another famous chapter might be written in the club’s modern fairytale, one fueled by passionate supporters, the presence of celebrity owners in the stands, and a team refusing to bow to superior opposition. Yet by the end of a dramatic evening filled with twists, controversy, and late heartbreak, the dream slipped agonizingly out of reach. What followed was a chaotic, emotional contest that ultimately decided who would move on to the quarter-final of the FA Cup.

From the opening whistle, the home side showed no intention of playing the role of respectful underdog. Wrexham stayed organized defensively but were ready to attack whenever an opportunity appeared. Despite early possession from Chelsea, the first major moment belonged to the host. A long ball from the back caught the visiting defense off guard, allowing Sam Smith to break free and slot a composed finish into the bottom corner. The stadium erupted as the underdog took the lead.

Even though the goal required a VAR check, the decision stood. The Racecourse Ground roared with belief, sensing that something special might be unfolding. Chelsea struggled to respond immediately, rattled by Wrexham’s energy and direct play. But eventually the Premier League side found a way back.

A swift attacking move ended with Alejandro Garnacho driving forward before a shot ricocheted off goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo for an unfortunate own goal, leveling the match before halftime. By the break, the contest stood at 1-1, setting the stage for a gripping second half.

Chaos and drama after the break

The second half transformed the match into a true cup classic. Wrexham continued to press forward and were rewarded when Callum Doyle cleverly redirected a long-range effort into the net, giving the home side the lead once again and sending the stadium into delirium.

For a moment, the upset seemed within touching distance. Yet the Blues responded almost immediately. Defensive lapses allowed Josh Acheampong to fire a powerful shot into the roof of the net, leveling the score once more and keeping the visitors alive. The match was now a frantic back-and-forth battle.

As time ticked away, tension escalated. In stoppage time, Wrexham suffered a major setback when George Dobson was sent off following a VAR review for a studs-up challenge on Garnacho. The dismissal meant the host would have to face extra time with 10 men, drastically shifting the balance of the contest. Still, the home side refused to collapse.

Extra-time heartbreak

Despite the numerical disadvantage, the hosts defended bravely at the start of extra time, hoping to drag the match toward penalties. But eventually the pressure told. A well-worked Chelsea move ended with Alejandro Garnacho finishing from close range, a goal that briefly confused the crowd as the ball bounced out of the net before anyone realized it had crossed the line.

Chelsea finally had the lead. Even then, Phil Parkinson’s players refused to surrender. The home side pushed forward desperately and nearly found an equalizer dramatically. One moment seemed destined for FA Cup folklore when Brunt bundled the ball into the net, appearing to force the game toward penalties. However, the celebrations were cut short. The decision left the crowd furious and the home side stunned.

Chelsea then delivered the decisive blow. With Wrexham pushing forward, space opened for the visitors. Joao Pedro collected the ball outside the area and produced a superb finish into the corner, finally ending the contest.

The goal confirmed a 4-2 victory after extra time for Chelsea, sending the Premier League club into the FA Cup quarter-final. Despite the defeat, Wrexham left the field to a standing ovation from supporters and co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

Athletic Club receive FC Barcelona in a Matchday 27 clash during the 2025/26 La Liga campaign. Here’s all the essential information for this highly anticipated contest, including kickoff schedules and details on how to watch the broadcast live via TV or available streaming services.

Match Overview

After Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Celta de Vigo tightened the title race in La Liga, league leaders Barcelona enter the weekend with just a one-point cushion and plenty of urgency as they prepare for a tough test against Athletic Club.

The Catalan side remains the favorite, but the Basque squad—currently battling in the middle of the table with hopes of securing a European spot—has built a reputation for frustrating top contenders and could shake up the standings with an upset.

2025–26 Saudi Pro League action continues on Matchday 25 as Al Nassr face NEO. Fans in the USA can find all the essential information here, including kickoff times and full broadcast details for both television and streaming platforms.

Match Overview

Pressure is mounting in the Saudi Pro League title race as Al Nassr prepares for a pivotal clash against NEOM. Following wins by Al Hilal and Al Ahli, second-place Al Nassr enters the matchup with 61 points and a chance to seize sole possession of first place with a victory.

Led by Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr understands the stakes in a tight championship battle, while mid-table NEOM looks to capitalize on the spotlight opportunity by earning a statement result and climbing the standings.

The spotlight surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo rarely fades, and that is especially true whenever the Portuguese icon is missing from the starting lineup.

The spotlight surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo rarely fades, and that is especially true whenever the Portuguese icon is missing from the starting lineup. Ahead of an important Saudi Pro League clash between Al‑Nassr and NEOM SC, fans quickly noticed that the global superstar would not be involved in the matchday squad.

For Al-Nassr, the absence of its captain and leading scorer represents a major storyline ahead of a match they are expected to dominate at home. The Saudi side is ranked second in the Saudi Pro League standings, enjoying an excellent run of form and entering the match with strong momentum. Meanwhile, NEOM, a recently promoted club that has shown flashes of promise this season, will attempt to capitalize on the absence of the league’s most recognizable figure.

Despite the Portuguese’s absence, Jorge Jesus and his players enter the match as the clear favorites. The team has won 12 consecutive matches in all competitions, demonstrating both attacking firepower and defensive stability.

The visiting side, coached by Christophe Galtier, currently sits mid-table and has struggled for consistency in recent weeks. The club includes notable names such as Alexandre Lacazette and Said Benrahma, but it will still face a difficult challenge away from home.

The previous meeting between the two sides ended in a 3–1 victory for Al-Nassr, a match in which Ronaldo himself found the net. This time, however, the league leader must attempt to secure another three points without its most iconic player.

The reason for Ronaldo’s absence revealed

The reason for Ronaldo’s absence traces back to Al-Nassr’s 3-1 victory over Al-Fayha, a match that saw the Portuguese forward leave the pitch earlier than expected. During that game, Ronaldo suffered a hamstring muscle injury, forcing him to be substituted before the final whistle.

Subsequent medical tests revealed that the injury was more serious than initially feared, prompting the club to take immediate action. The decision was made to send the veteran striker to Spain for specialized treatment and recovery. According to reports and statements from the club’s coaching staff, Ronaldo will temporarily step away from the squad while undergoing rehabilitation.

Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus addressed the situation in a press conference, explaining the reasoning behind the decision. “In the last game, Cristiano left with a muscle injury,” Jesus said. “After the tests he underwent, it became clear that it is a more serious injury than we were expecting.”

The Portuguese manager also confirmed that Ronaldo would receive treatment outside Saudi Arabia in order to accelerate his recovery. “Cristiano will travel to Spain for treatment… We hope he will return soon to help the team.”

Ronaldo makes Madrid trip as Portugal sweats over his fitness

The news that Ronaldo had traveled to Madrid quickly fueled speculation online. Public flight-tracking data even appeared to show his private jet landing in the Spanish capital, leading some outlets to suggest alternative reasons for his absence.

However, those rumors were quickly dismissed by the club. The trip was purely medical, with the 41-year-old veteran expected to work closely with his personal physiotherapist and medical team during the recovery process. The expected recovery timeline is between two and four weeks, meaning Ronaldo could miss several important matches for both club and country.

That timeline raises additional questions regarding Portugal’s upcoming international schedule. The national team is set to play friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT later this month, and the superstar’s availability for those games is now uncertain.

Wrexham play against Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup during the 2025/2026 season. Here’s everything to know for viewers in the United States, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and details on TV coverage or live streaming.

Match Overview

A place in the next round of the FA Cup will be at stake when Chelsea meet Wrexham in the fifth round of the historic tournament. Wrexham arrive in strong form, enjoying an impressive EFL Championship campaign while continuing their rapid rise through English football and hoping to deliver a major upset.

Chelsea, meanwhile, remain near the top of the Premier League standings and see the FA Cup as a key opportunity to secure silverware this season. With plenty on the line for both sides, this matchup has all the ingredients for an exciting clash—so make sure not to miss the action.

Spanish soccer is preparing for a nostalgic celebration unlike anything the league has attempted before. Yet even before the initiative begins, attention has already shifted toward the absence of some of the sport’s brightest stars.

Spanish soccer is preparing for a nostalgic celebration unlike anything the league has attempted before. Yet even before the initiative begins, attention has already shifted toward the absence of some of the sport’s brightest stars. Supporters expecting to see players such as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior representing Real Madrid, or teenage sensation Lamine Yamal stepping out for Barcelona, during a special celebration will instead witness something very different.

In fact, despite the excitement surrounding the league’s newest marketing experiment, two of the most influential clubs in Spanish soccer will not fully participate on the pitch, creating a surprising twist in what was meant to be a united tribute to the past. The league’s ambitious project promised to transport fans back in time, but the absence of these global stars has left many asking the same question: why would Barcelona and Real Madrid step aside from such a historic occasion?

The La Liga has announced an unprecedented event scheduled for April 10-13, 2026, when clubs across Spain’s top two divisions will participate in the first-ever Retro Matchday. The concept is simple but visually powerful: teams will wear kits inspired by iconic designs from their own history, recreating the aesthetic of famous seasons, legendary players, and unforgettable triumphs.

In total, 38 clubs across La Liga and the Segunda Division have agreed to join the initiative. Their retro uniforms will be unveiled during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, transforming the jerseys into both sporting and cultural artifacts. Beyond the jerseys themselves, the retro theme will extend to the entire broadcast experience. Referees will wear vintage-style uniforms, match balls will carry classic designs, and television coverage will feature retro graphics meant to evoke the look of older soccer broadcasts.

According to league officials, the initiative represents a major cultural moment for Spanish soccer. As explained by La Liga Club Office director Jaime Blanco: “The Retro Day is a unique opportunity to pay tribute to the history of our clubs and the symbols that have shaped several generations of fans. It is a way to bring the past into the present, continuing to create experiences and forge a legacy that connects emotionally with fans.”

The surprise absence of four clubs

Despite the overwhelming enthusiasm across the league, four clubs will not wear retro kits during the special matchday. Those teams are Real Madrid, Barcelona, Getafe, and Rayo Vallecano. While the league had envisioned a collective moment of nostalgia involving every club, the reality has proven more complicated.

The absence of the two most globally recognized teams, Barcelona and Real Madrid, has particularly drawn attention, as it means fans will not see some of the world’s biggest stars wearing throwback shirts during the event.

Why Barcelona and Real Madrid are skipping the retro kits

The reasons behind the decision vary between the clubs. Barcelona, Getafe, and Rayo Vallecano will not wear retro kits on the pitch due to logistical and production issues. Reports indicate that there was insufficient time to prepare the vintage designs for this season’s matchday. However, those clubs will still participate in the campaign’s promotional aspects and are expected to introduce their retro kits in future editions of the initiative.

The situation is different for Real Madrid. Los Blancos have chosen not to participate in the project at all, meaning the team will simply wear its standard 2025-26 kit during Matchday 31. League officials have not indicated that Madrid formally opposed the campaign, but the club has reportedly distanced itself entirely from the initiative, without providing a detailed public explanation.

As a result, the Santiago Bernabeu side will be the only club fully absent from the wider retro celebration, while the other three teams remain involved in promotional activities.

As Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli chase the title and their star forwards compete for the Golden Boot, a stunning development has shaken the race.

The battle for supremacy in the Saudi Pro League is reaching a dramatic climax, and the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney has suddenly taken center stage. As Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli chase the title and their star forwards compete for the Golden Boot, a stunning development has shaken the race.

A decisive moment arrived during a heated derby clash that could reshape both the scoring charts and the championship battle. What happened that night did more than help a team climb the table; it also placed serious pressure on Ronaldo’s pursuit of a historic individual milestone. Now, with the season entering its final stretch, the question is growing louder: could Ronaldo’s dream of another Golden Boot be slipping away?

The drama unfolded at the packed Alinma Stadium in Jeddah, where Al-Ahli defeated Al-Ittihad 3-1 in a fiery Sea Derby that carried enormous implications for the title race. The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Toney finished a sweeping attacking move. Brazilian winger Galeno burst down the left flank and delivered a precise low cross into the box. Waiting inside the six-yard area was the English striker, who calmly tapped the ball into the net to give Al-Ahli the lead.

The visitors fought back early in the second half. After Steven Bergwijn was brought down inside the penalty area, former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho stepped up to convert from the spot, leveling the match. But the parity lasted only a few minutes. Former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez restored Al-Ahli’s advantage just before the hour mark with a clinical left-footed strike.

Late in the game, substitute Feras Al-Buraikan capitalized on a defensive mistake to seal the 3-1 victory.  The win extended Al-Ahli’s remarkable form, marking its 13th victory in the last 14 league matches and temporarily pushing the club to the top of the Saudi Pro League table, just ahead of Al-Nassr.

The moment that rewrote the record books

While the derby victory grabbed headlines, the significance of Toney’s opening goal ran much deeper. With that strike, the England international reached 24 league goals for the season, strengthening his position at the top of the Golden Boot standings. Ronaldo, by comparison, currently sits on 22 goals, placing him behind his rival with only nine matches remaining.

But the milestone did not stop there. The Englishman’s goal also ensured that he had now produced 29 goal contributions in the league this season, combining 24 goals and five assists. That tally surpassed a long-standing benchmark set by Syrian striker Omar Al Somah, who had recorded 28 goal contributions during the 2015-16 campaign.

In other words, Toney now holds the record for the most goal contributions in a single Saudi Pro League season for Al-Ahli, breaking a mark that had stood for ten years. The achievement highlights just how transformative the 29-year-old has been since arriving in the Middle East.

Direct threat to Ronaldo’s historic ambition

The implications of Toney’s form extend far beyond club records. They strike directly at Ronaldo’s own pursuit of history. The Portuguese icon entered the season chasing an unprecedented feat: becoming the first European player to win the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot in three consecutive seasons.

Ronaldo’s dominance in recent years made that possibility seem almost inevitable. He captured the award in 2024 with 31 goals and repeated the feat in 2025 with 30 goals. Even at the age of 41, his scoring record remains extraordinary.

Over the last three seasons, Ronaldo has consistently produced numbers that rival those of the world’s best strikers. However, Toney’s relentless scoring has now turned what once looked like a comfortable path into a tense and unpredictable duel.

Wrexham play against Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup during the 2025/2026 season. Here’s everything to know for viewers in the United States, including the date, venue, kickoff time, and details on TV coverage or live streaming.

Match Overview

A spot in the next round of the FA Cup is on the line as Arsenal welcome Mansfield Town in a classic David-vs-Goliath matchup. The visitors arrive from EFL League One, where they currently sit 16th, while the Gunners enter the clash riding high at the top of the Premier League and carrying serious expectations to lift the historic trophy.

Arsenal are heavy favorites on paper, but cup competitions are known for dramatic upsets, giving Mansfield a chance to chase a memorable result against one of England’s strongest sides—so don’t miss this intriguing FA Cup showdown.

Real Madrid could spend a fortune on signings this summer, potentially including Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.

Real Madrid’s performances this season have fallen short of expectations, especially considering the high standards typically associated with a club so accustomed to excellence. As a result, they could spend significant money this summer to strengthen the squad, including a possible move for 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.

“The first €100 million that Real Madrid want to spend this summer is on Rodrigo Hernandez and Schlotterbeck,” journalist Alberto Pereiro said this week on Radioestadio Noche on Onda Cero, as cited by Mundo Deportivo.

Rodri has been linked with Real Madrid for years. His performances at Manchester City since 2019 have been outstanding, turning him into a key figure in the club’s successes, including the UEFA Champions League title in 2023. That, combined with his leading role in Spain’s UEFA Euro triumph, earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2024.

However, things have been difficult for the midfielder since then. During the 2024-25 season, Rodri played only eight matches for the Citizens due to a serious knee injury that kept him out for eight months. In the current campaign, although he has featured more regularly, he has still had to deal with knee and muscular issues.

Schlotterbeck, the other major target for Real Madrid

In addition to a top-level central midfielder like Rodri, Real Madrid know they will also need defenders. The futures of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba remain uncertain, while Dean Huijsen’s performances have not been entirely convincing. That could lead Los Blancos to target high-quality center backs ahead of next season.

Nico Schlotterbeck fits that profile. The German defender is only 26 years old, suggesting he still has many years at the elite level ahead of him, while already having built significant experience with Borussia Dortmund. He has played more than 150 matches there over the past four seasons and has also become a regular member of the Germany national team.

How much are Rodri and Schlotterbeck worth?

Reports indicate that Real Madrid are willing to allocate around $115 million to sign Rodri and Schlotterbeck. That figure, as impressive as it may seem, could still fall short of the combined market value of two players of their quality.

According to the specialized website Transfermarkt, Rodri is valued at €75 million and Schlotterbeck at €55 million, bringing their combined estimated value to roughly $150 million. However, the fact that both players are just one year away from becoming free agents could be a valuable negotiating tool for Real Madrid in potential talks with Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund.

In the never-ending debate about soccer’s greatest players, the names of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo usually dominate every conversation. But one striker currently playing in the Premier League has unexpectedly inserted himself into the discussion, at least in one very specific area.

In the never-ending debate about soccer’s greatest players, the names of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo usually dominate every conversation. But one striker currently playing in the Premier League has unexpectedly inserted himself into the discussion, at least in one very specific area. At Fulham, Mexican forward Raul Jimenez has quietly built himself a worthy reputation in world soccer.

His confidence recently led him to make a bold claim: in one key statistical category, he believes he stands above both Messi and Ronaldo. The statement raised eyebrows across the soccer world. Yet when the numbers behind Jimenez’s record are examined, the comparison suddenly becomes much harder to dismiss.

Jimenez has become one of the most successful Mexican players ever to play in England. After making his mark with Wolverhampton and continuing his career with Fulham, the striker has established himself as a dependable presence in the Premier League.

The former academy product of Club America now holds the record for the most goals scored by a Mexican player in England, with 67 goals across his Premier League career. Beyond the raw numbers, his influence has been particularly evident during his time at Fulham. His leadership in attack and calm presence in crucial moments have made him a key figure at Craven Cottage.

This season alone, the 34-year-old has scored nine goals in all competitions, helping the club push toward the upper half of the league table. But it is not just his open-play goals that have drawn attention. Instead, a remarkable pattern has emerged whenever a referee points to the penalty spot.

The hidden record that sets Jimenez apart

While comparisons with Messi and Ronaldo usually focus on total goals or trophies, Jimenez’s advantage comes from a different category entirely. Since the beginning of his professional career, the Mexican striker has produced an extraordinary level of efficiency from the penalty spot.

Jimenez has an incredible 95.5 percent success record in official competitions since making his professional debut, scoring 42 penalties from 44 tries. His only two misses came under unique circumstances: one with the Mexican national team in a friendly against Uruguay, when goalkeeper Fernando Muslera saved his effort in 2018, and another during a high-pressure Europa League quarter-final against Sevilla while he was playing for Wolves.

Aside from those two moments, the experienced veteran has been nearly flawless. By comparison, Messi has converted 114 penalties from 146 attempts, a success rate of 78.1 percent, while Ronaldo has scored 181 out of 217 penalties, producing an 83.4 percent success rate, according to statistics compiled by Transfermarkt.

Jimenez’s bold claim about the GOAT debate

Despite the intimidating reputations of Messi and Ronaldo, Jimenez has no hesitation in backing his own numbers. During an interview with FOX Sports, the Fulham striker was asked to compare his penalty-taking ability with several famous names, including Messi and Ronaldo.

The Mexican forward confidently placed himself at the top of the list. “Whether you like it or not, I have a better success rate than all of the ones you mentioned,” Jimenez said. “I don’t know if I’m the best in the world, but it’s something that characterizes me. I’ll stick with myself.”

The comment quickly sparked debate among fans on social media, with many surprised by the striker’s bold comparison with two of soccer’s greatest icons. Yet the numbers provide strong support for his claim.

The future of Christian Pulisic at Milan could soon be shaped by a decision unfolding far from the pitch. With speculation swirling across Europe and persistent whispers from Real Madrid, attention has turned to the fate of the Rossoneri’s head coach, Massimiliano Allegri.

The future of Christian Pulisic at Milan could soon be shaped by a decision unfolding far from the pitch. With speculation swirling across Europe and persistent whispers from Real Madrid, attention has turned to the fate of the Rossoneri’s head coach, Massimiliano Allegri.

As the season approaches a decisive stretch, the American star and the rest of the squad are watching closely while the club weighs its next move. Reports in Italy suggest that Milan has already reached an internal conclusion regarding the future of its coach, while Allegri himself has quietly made clear what direction he prefers. Yet the situation remains layered with intrigue, especially as Madrid once again circles around the veteran tactician.

The speculation intensified after reports from Corriere dello Sport suggested that Real Madrid is again considering Allegri as a potential manager for the 2026-27 season. The Italian newspaper reported that the Spanish giant “could make an attempt to hire Allegri next season,” reviving a connection that has existed for years. This would not be the first time Madrid has pursued the Italian coach.

The Spanish club previously approached Allegri in both 2019 and 2021, when the idea of bringing the experienced Serie A strategist to the Santiago Bernabéu came close to becoming reality. In 2021, the deal reportedly progressed to an advanced stage. However, the tactitian ultimately decided against the move after a crucial meeting with Juventus president Andrea Agnelli, opting instead to return to Turin after two years away from coaching.

Now, years later, the situation appears to be resurfacing again. Madrid’s leadership, led by club president Florentino Perez, continues to evaluate long-term options for the bench. The Spanish club’s recent managerial instability has only fueled the rumors. After replacing Xabi Alonso with Álvaro Arbeloa earlier this season, results have reportedly failed to meet expectations, opening the door for another change next summer.

Milan’s decision emerges

Despite the growing rumors from Spain, the situation inside Milan appears far clearer. According to multiple Italian outlets, including Corriere della Sera and La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan is preparing to offer Allegri a contract extension that would keep him at the club until 2028, with an option for a further season.

The proposed deal would also increase his salary from $5.8 million to roughly $7 million per season, particularly if the club secures qualification for the UEFA Champions League. The decision reflects the Rossoneri’s belief that the experienced Italian boss should remain the central figure of the club’s long-term project. Club directors reportedly see continuity on the bench as vital for both recruitment and player development.

For a squad featuring key figures like Pulisic, managerial stability could prove decisive. Allegri’s return at San Siro has already restored structure and discipline to a team that struggled for consistency in previous seasons.

Allegri’s own preference comes to light

Equally important is the stance of the coach himself. According to several reports, Allegri’s preference is to remain at Milan, a club he considers both professionally and personally significant. The Livorno-born manager has repeatedly emphasized his satisfaction with the current project.

While the 58-year-old manager appears committed to staying, he reportedly has specific conditions for the next phase of the project. The coach wants a stronger voice in Milan’s transfer strategy, particularly as the club prepares for a potential return to the Champions League. Playing in Europe would require a deeper squad capable of competing every three days.

Thus, discussions about the long-term plan are expected only after the season concludes, when Allegri and Milan’s leadership will evaluate the squad and define their strategy for the future.

Inter Miami will visit DC United this Saturday in Major League Soccer, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi.

This Saturday, Inter Miami will play their third official match of the 2026 Major League Soccer season. It will be against DC United at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, a venue expected to be packed due to the huge anticipation surrounding Lionel Messi.

In the hours leading up to the match, the Eagles’ head coach was asked about his plan to stop the Argentine forward. “Lionel Messi is the best in the world. It’s impossible to truly stop him,” Rene Weiler said during a press conference, shared by journalist Jose Armando on X.

Despite acknowledging that stopping Messi is impossible, the coach then explained his plan to make things as difficult as possible for the Inter Miami star on the field. “The key is not giving him space and defending well as a team,” Weiler said.

However, the DC United boss emphasized that focusing only on Messi will not be enough to neutralize the Herons. “It’s not only him. It’s like the benchmark of the league, because they won the league last season. They have very good players and we have to be aware for 90 minutes,” the 52-year-old Swiss coach added. “We have to anticipate all situations very quickly. We have to defend perfectly, otherwise we can’t get a good result.”

The Messi effect in MLS

As happens every time Inter Miami play away from home, local fans’ attention is focused far more on Lionel Messi than on supporting their own team. Rene Weiler also addressed that reality during the press conference.

“It’s an honor to face Messi, and we’ve prepared for it like an away game,” the DC United coach admitted. However, Weiler did not hide a certain level of disappointment with that reality: “It’s about business and marketing. I would prefer it to be more about the sport. But it will be an honor to take part in this match in front of 60,000 people.”

Inter Miami’s upcoming challenges

Saturday’s match against DC United will be Inter Miami’s third of the season, following a loss to LAFC and a win over Orlando City. After the trip to Baltimore, the Herons will make their official debut in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup against Nashville SC.

The first leg of the Round of 16 will take place on Wednesday, March 11 at Geodis Park, while the decisive match will be played a week later at Chase Stadium, which will be the Herons’ final game there before the official opening of Nu Stadium. Between those two matches, Lionel Messi and his teammates will also be in MLS action, visiting Charlotte FC on Saturday, March 14.

An injury to the Portuguese legend has left Al-Nassr vulnerable at a critical moment in the championship race, while developments involving Benzema have suddenly shifted momentum elsewhere.

The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema once defined an era at Real Madrid. Years later, that competitive edge has followed them to Saudi Arabia, where their clubs now fight for domestic supremacy in the Saudi Pro League. As the season approaches a decisive stage, the title race involving Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal has taken an unexpected twist. Injuries, squad decisions, and returning stars have all played a role in shaping the battle.

What initially appeared to be a moment of opportunity for Ronaldo’s club has quickly turned into something far more complicated. An injury to the Portuguese legend has left Al-Nassr vulnerable at a critical moment in the championship race, while developments involving Benzema have suddenly shifted momentum elsewhere.

The Saudi Pro League campaign has been fiercely contested, with Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli all battling for the top spot. For much of the season, Ronaldo has been at the center of the Riyadh outfit’s charge. The Portuguese superstar has maintained impressive form despite entering his forties, continuing to deliver goals and leadership for his club.

However, the title race took an unexpected turn when both Ronaldo and Benzema experienced injury setbacks within a short period. In late February, Al-Hilal announced that Benzema had suffered a muscle problem during training. “Karim Benzema will be out for a period ranging from 10 to 15 days due to a groin injury,” the club confirmed in an official statement.

The diagnosis ruled the French striker out of several important fixtures, including league matches against Al-Shabab and Al-Najma. During his absence, Al-Nassr appeared ready to capitalize on the opportunity, climbing above its rivals in the standings while maintaining a narrow lead at the top of the table. But the situation soon reversed.

Ronaldo’s injury adds new uncertainty

Just as Al-Nassr seemed poised to strengthen its title push, Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury during a recent match. The injury forced the five-time Ballon d’Or winner to leave Saudi Arabia for specialized treatment in Spain. Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus confirmed the seriousness of the issue. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected,” Jesus said.

“Cristiano will now travel to Spain, like other players who went for treatment when they were injured. His injury required treatment in Madrid with his personal therapist, and we hope he returns quickly and helps the team.”

The setback means Ronaldo will miss upcoming matches, including an important league clash against Neom. For a player renowned for extraordinary durability, the injury has raised concerns. According to available data, the last time Ronaldo missed more than two weeks due to a muscle problem was in 2019 during his spell at Juventus.

The moment that changed the dynamic

While Ronaldo continues his recovery, the development that altered the title race came from the opposing side. Karim Benzema returned from his injury and rejoined the Al-Hilal squad, providing a major boost to the club’s attack. What’s more, Italian manager Simone Inzaghi included the French striker in the starting lineup for the league clash against Al-Najma, and it proved to be the right decision. The Frenchman even bagged a brace in his club’s 4-0 win.

The Frenchman had been sidelined after sustaining the injury following a match against Al-Ittihad, which ended in a 1-1 draw. His recovery now arrives at a pivotal moment. His return effectively deals a double blow to Al-Nassr: Ronaldo is sidelined while one of its biggest rivals has regained a key attacking weapon.

As the season enters its decisive stretch and the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, the Portuguese icon faces an uncertain moment following a new injury setback.

The spotlight rarely leaves Cristiano Ronaldo, but the latest news surrounding the legendary forward has sparked fresh concern across the soccer world. As the season enters its decisive stretch and the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, the Portuguese icon faces an uncertain moment following a new injury setback.

At the center of the story is the situation unfolding at Al-Nassr, where Ronaldo remains the club’s central figure. The Saudi Pro League title race continues to heat up, yet the team now finds itself dealing with the sudden absence of its most influential player. Meanwhile, the captain of the Portugal national team must also think about his international commitments, with friendlies against the United States men’s national team and the Mexico national team approaching quickly.

The situation has left fans wondering when the 41-year-old might return to the pitch. Concerns began after Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury during a league match against Al-Fayha. The injury occurred late in the game and forced the veteran forward to leave the pitch, immediately raising fears about how serious the problem might be.

Soon after, Al-Nassr confirmed the diagnosis in an official statement. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury sustained during the match against Al-Fayha. He has begun a rehabilitation program and will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis,” the club announced.

The news immediately cast doubt over the forward’s short-term availability. Ronaldo is certain to miss upcoming domestic matches, including the clash with Neom, while additional fixtures may also be affected depending on his recovery. Despite being 41 years old, Ronaldo has remained a key player for Al-Nassr this season, scoring 21 league goals and helping keep the club near the top of the Saudi Pro League standings.

World Cup fears and international doubts

Further details about the injury were revealed by Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus, who confirmed that the situation was more complicated than initially believed. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected,” Jesus admitted.

The timing of the injury could hardly be worse. Portugal is preparing for two high-profile international friendlies that will serve as important preparation before the 2026 World Cup. The team coached by Roberto Martinez is scheduled to face Mexico and the United States at the end of the month. These matches could play a significant role in shaping the squad for the global tournament.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also provided insight into the potential recovery timeline. “Cristiano Ronaldo could be out for up to four weeks with muscle injury,” Romano wrote on social media, adding that further tests would determine the final prognosis. If that timeline proves accurate, the experienced ace could miss the entire international break, forcing Roberto Martinez to test alternative attacking options during the friendlies.

The potential return date revealed

While uncertainty remains, reports have begun pointing to a possible target for Ronaldo’s comeback. Following the international break and the matches Portugal plans to play in North America, Ronaldo could potentially return to action in the Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Najma on April 3.

That fixture has quietly emerged as the most realistic timeline for the forward’s comeback, assuming his rehabilitation progresses without setbacks. Before that point, however, Ronaldo is expected to miss at least two league matches for Al-Nassr, including games against Neom and Al-Khaleej.

Paulo Dybala underwent surgery weeks before Argentina’s clash with Spain in the Finalissima.

The March international break is approaching, during which Argentina and Spain are scheduled — pending confirmation — to face each other in the Finalissima. In this context, Paulo Dybala underwent surgery on the meniscus of his left knee, putting his potential participation in the match at the center of attention.

“After experiencing discomfort during training at Trigoria on Thursday, the striker and Roma decided to investigate the cause of the problem,” Sky Sports Italy reported Friday. “Dybala was diagnosed with ‘a complete longitudinal tear of the external meniscus’ and so the decision was made to proceed with the surgery.”

This procedure will sideline the Argentine forward for a considerable period while he undergoes the slow process of returning to full fitness. “Regarding recovery time, he will require at least 45 days from an orthopedic standpoint,” the report adds.

That timeline rules Dybala out of the potential Argentina vs. Spain match on March 27. Even if the Finalissima does not take place due to complications arising from the ongoing tense situation in the Middle East, Lionel Scaloni’s team will likely play matches during this FIFA break elsewhere in the world.

What is Dybala’s situation with the Argentina national team?

According to Argentina national team specialist Gaston Edul, Dybala “could have continued playing with that discomfort and postponed surgery until midyear, but he didn’t want to wait until the end of the season — he wanted to address it now to be fully ready for the summer and the final part of the calendar.”

This explains why the forward chose to undergo surgery now, even though it meant missing the Finalissima: Dybala has lost ground in Lionel Scaloni’s considerations, and his presence against Spain was already highly unlikely.

In fact, the last time the AS Roma forward was called up was in September 2024, when he scored in Argentina’s World Cup qualifier victory over Chile. Since then, Scaloni has prioritized other players such as Thiago Almada and Nicolas Paz.

Frequent injuries have been a major reason for Dybala’s reduced international role, despite having been part of the squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and playing in the final against France. His decision to undergo surgery now appears aimed at reaching peak form ahead of the 2026 World Cup and attempting a return to the national team.

How many matches will Dybala miss for AS Roma?

Beyond his situation with Argentina, Dybala also needs to focus on his future with AS Roma. The minimum 45-day absence will rule the forward out for at least the next 10 matches across Serie A and the UEFA Europa League.

This extended absence could be decisive for Dybala’s future beyond this season. His contract with AS Roma expires on June 30, and it remains unclear whether the Italian side will offer a renewal, given his high salary and recurring physical issues.

Real Madrid are set to face Celta Vigo in La Liga, and Kylian Mbappe is not part of the squad.

This Friday, Real Madrid and Celta Vigo will kick off Matchday 27 of La Liga in a key clash for Los Blancos as they try to close the gap on leaders Barcelona in the standings. Despite the importance of the game, Kylian Mbappe will not be in the squad.

The French forward is recovering from a knee injury that has troubled him since late 2025. He missed several matches earlier this season due to these issues, but the situation worsened in recent weeks, forcing him to skip training and follow a more cautious treatment plan.

Regarding his recovery timeline, there have been varying reports in recent days. While some speculation suggested Mbappe could miss the rest of the season to be fully fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with France, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa offered an optimistic update.

“We’re keeping a close eye on what’s happening to him, how he’s doing. It’s a process we’ll take day by day, monitoring how he’s feeling. He’s getting better every day,” Arbeloa said this week. These comments come alongside reports indicating that Real Madrid expect to have Mbappe available at least for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 against Manchester City, scheduled for March 17.

📋✅ Our starting XI!
🆚 @CeltaEnglish pic.twitter.com/h58jNHjTuj

— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) March 6, 2026

Confirmed Real Madrid lineup vs. Celta Vigo

Alvaro Arbeloa has typically chosen Gonzalo Garcia as Mbappe’s replacement when needed. However, for this match, the coach will opt for a lineup without a traditional center forward next to Vinicius Junior.

The confirmed Real Madrid lineup for Friday’s visit to Celta Vigo in La Liga is: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy; Aurelien Tchouameni, Thiago Pitarch, Federico Valverde, Arda Guler; Vinicius Junior, Brahim Diaz.

How much do Real Madrid miss Mbappe?

It’s clear that Kylian Mbappe’s absence at this crucial point of the season is a significant blow for Real Madrid. The impact is reflected in statistics comparing the team’s performance with and without him: Real Madrid have lost 43% of matches played without Mbappe this season.

This is understandable considering the French forward’s performances. He is the top scorer in La Liga with 23 goals, while also leading the Champions League with 13 goals. Overall, Mbappe has 38 goals and 6 assists in 33 matches this season for Real Madrid.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano spoke about the milestone of 900 goals that Lionel Messi is on the verge of reaching.

At nearly 39, Lionel Messi remains one of the most important figures in global sports, not only because of his superstar status but also because of the performances he continues to deliver week after week on the field with Inter Miami and Argentina. Javier Mascherano addressed the topic.

The coach was asked by Bolavip about Messi’s increasingly close pursuit of 900 career goals, a mark that only one player in the history of soccer has reached so far — Cristiano Ronaldo — and one that Leo now needs just two more goals to achieve.

“The numbers that you mention are incredible, he’s unbelievable,” Mascherano said about Messi during Friday’s press conference ahead of Saturday’s Major League Soccer matchup against DC United at M&T Bank Stadium.

“I’m just a privileged spectator,” the Inter Miami coach added regarding the chance to enjoy Messi’s magic on a daily basis, just as he did during their years together as teammates with Barcelona and Argentina. “I just get to watch him closer than you on the sidelines.”

Lionel Messi could surpass Cristiano Ronaldo’s record

While Cristiano Ronaldo remains the first and only player in soccer history to reach the remarkable total of 900 official goals, Lionel Messi could surpass him in terms of efficiency and speed if he reaches that number in the near future.

Ronaldo scored his 900th goal on September 5, 2024, during Portugal’s match against Croatia in the UEFA Nations League. At that time, CR7 was 39 years and 7 months old, and he needed 1,238 official matches between club and international play to reach that milestone, averaging 0.73 goals per game.

Messi could eclipse those numbers. Right now he has 898 goals across his time with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and Argentina, and he needs just two more. What stands out is that Leo reached those numbers in a considerably shorter time than Ronaldo. The Argentine forward is 38 years, 8 months, and 10 days old and has played 1,149 matches, resulting in an average of 0.78 goals per game.

What are Messi’s upcoming matches?

With another brace, like the one he scored in Inter Miami’s win over Orlando City last Sunday, Lionel Messi would reach the 900-goal mark. That could happen as soon as this Saturday, when the Herons visit DC United in MLS action.

If it does not happen then, the opportunity could come in the Concacaf Champions Cup, where Inter Miami will begin their campaign next Wednesday, March 11 against Nashville SC at Geodis Park. And even if the two expected goals take longer to arrive, the opportunity could come with Argentina during the March international break, although it is still unclear whether they will face Spain in the Finalissima.

Robert Lewandowski addressed his future with Barcelona.

For months, there has been speculation in Barcelona about the future of several of the team’s attacking players. Expiring contracts, purchase options that must be exercised, and potential reinforcements have been major topics among fans and the media, with several high-profile names involved in those conversations. Robert Lewandowski is among them, with his future still uncertain.

The Polish striker’s contract with Barcelona expires on June 30 of this year, in the middle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, and there is still no clarity about what will happen beyond that date.

“I’ll give myself around three months to decide what I want to do. Me, just me,” Lewandowski said about the situation during a recent interview with Sky Sports. That means Robert will wait until the end of the current campaign to evaluate his next step, likely so he can get a full picture of both his own performances and the club’s results during the decisive stages of the season.

“What is good is that I don’t have pressure,” he added. “At 30 or a few years (younger), this kind of feeling is going to be different. ‘I want to see where I’m going to play’. But in this moment, I don’t have to know. I have patience.“

Lewandowski is 37 years old and will have turned 38 by the start of the 2026-27 season. He clearly knows he is entering the final stage of his professional career, which is why he is approaching every decision with caution, aware that his next move could be the last of his soccer career.

Lewandowski remains motivated for Barcelona’s upcoming challenges

Just because Robert Lewandowski knows he is nearing the end of his career does not mean he has lost the competitive fire that has always driven him to perform at the highest level. In fact, he appears motivated by the challenges Barcelona have ahead in the coming months.

“The season is starting again,” the Polish striker said in the same interview, referring to the fact that the Blaugranas are now entering the decisive stages of La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. “We have to be ready for the most important time in this part of the season.”

Speaking about that mindset, Lewandowski explained how he prepares himself for the challenges ahead: “You always have to be ready. Always you have to think, what can I do better, what can I do more? You have to think 24 hours per day about your football. You need always this feeling that you’re hungry for more.”

Lewandowski also thinking about the World Cup

Beyond his focus on Barcelona’s challenges, Robert Lewandowski also has a clear goal in the near future: leading Poland to another World Cup. They are set to play in the European play-off during the March FIFA break, where they will face Albania in the semifinals and, if they advance, play for qualification against either Sweden or Ukraine.

“We have two games, two finals. We don’t have any space for the mistakes,” Lewandowski said. “If we’re winning first game, then we have to be ready for the final. It’s the challenge for every team in these play-offs: to play not one game but two games on the higher level. I take this challenge and it’s going to be interesting. I hope we can enjoy and go to the USA for the World Cup.“

Celta de Vigo receive Real Madrid in a Matchday 27 clash of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign. Below, you’ll find all the key details for this matchup, including kickoff times and full information on how to watch the game live on TV and through available streaming services.

Match Overview

Pressure is mounting on Real Madrid after a costly stumble against Getafe left them four points adrift of rivals Barcelona in the La Liga title chase. With little room for another misstep, Kylian Mbappe and company know a convincing response is essential to keep pace at the top.

But a surging Celta de Vigo squad, enjoying a strong 2025/2026 campaign and eyeing European qualification, won’t make it easy in a matchup loaded with major implications—be sure to tune in for what should be a high-stakes showdown.

PSG battles Monaco during Matchday 25 of the 2025/2026 season. Supporters within the United States can witness every moment; start times and media information reside below for cable and digital platforms.

Match Overview

A pivotal Ligue 1 showdown is on deck as AS Monaco look to shake up the title race when they host league leaders Paris Saint-Germain. Monaco enter the weekend with 37 points and sitting outside the European places, making this a crucial opportunity to spark a late surge up the standings.

Meanwhile, PSG sit comfortably at the top with 57 points, holding a four-point edge over second-place RC Lens and aiming to extend their winning streak to protect their cushion. With major implications at both ends of the table, this is a must-watch clash you won’t want to miss.

United States president Donald Trump welcomed Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates to commemorate the club’s historic 2025 MLS Cup triumph, a milestone moment for the franchise and for soccer in the US.

A celebration of sporting excellence inside the White House quickly turned into one of soccer’s most intriguing talking points. United States president Donald Trump welcomed Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates to commemorate the club’s historic 2025 MLS Cup triumph, a milestone moment for the franchise and for soccer in the US.

While the ceremony celebrated the Herons’ remarkable rise in Major League Soccer, it also produced a moment that immediately sparked debate across the global soccer community. The comment revived one of soccer’s oldest arguments, a comparison between generations of legends. Inter Miami’s visit to Washington followed the club’s first MLS Cup victory, secured in December after defeating Vancouver Whitecaps in the final.

The triumph marked a historic step for a club founded only a few years earlier and co-owned by David Beckham. The White House ceremony continued the long-standing American tradition of honoring championship teams. Players, staff members, and club executives gathered for the event, which celebrated the season that transformed Inter Miami into one of the most recognizable teams in world soccer.

Messi, who joined the club in mid-2023, has been central to that transformation. His impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. According to season statistics, the Argentine superstar recorded 43 goals and 25 assists in 49 appearances during the 2025 campaign, leading Inter Miami to the league title and earning the MLS Most Valuable Player award for a second consecutive season, the first player in league history to achieve that feat.

During the ceremony, Messi presented Trump with a bejeweled pink soccer ball, symbolizing the club’s iconic kit and its growing cultural influence. Trump addressed the Argentine directly while praising his achievements. “Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very, very unusual,” Trump said.

The moment that sparked a global debate

Midway through the ceremony, Trump shifted the conversation toward soccer history, recalling his memories of watching Brazilian legend Pele during the 1970s. The Brazilian famously played for the New York Cosmos between 1975 and 1977, a period widely credited with helping popularize soccer in the United States.

That memory led Trump to deliver the remark that quickly spread around the world. “I shouldn’t say this because you’ll say I’m old, but I watched Pele play,” he said. “You may be better than Pele… Who’s better?”

The comment reignited one of soccer’s most enduring debates: whether Messi’s achievements surpass those of the Brazilian icon. The president then appeared to make his own stance clear. “I agree. I think he is.” Within minutes, the statement had spread across social media and sports networks, adding a political voice to the long-running GOAT (Greatest of All Time) discussion.

Praise for Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami

Trump also used the occasion to highlight Messi’s decision to continue his career in the United States rather than returning to Europe or moving elsewhere. “You could have gone anywhere in the world. You could have chosen any team in the world, and you chose Miami,” he said. “I don’t blame you. The weather’s extremely good.”

While Messi remained silent during the ceremony, his presence alone reflected the enormous influence he has had on American soccer since arriving.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure for both Al-Nassr and the Portugal national team, but recent comments from his club coach Jorge Jesus have raised fresh concern over the striker’s physical condition.

Uncertainty has suddenly surrounded one of soccer’s most enduring superstars. Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure for both Al-Nassr and the Portugal national team, but recent comments from his club coach Jorge Jesus have raised fresh concern over the striker’s physical condition.

The veteran forward limped off during Al-Nassr’s recent match against Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League, sparking immediate questions about the severity of the problem. At first glance, the injury appeared manageable, but the latest update from inside the club suggests the situation could be more complicated than initially believed.

The timing could hardly be worse. With the club pushing for a historic domestic title and Portugal preparing for crucial friendlies against the Mexico national team and the United States men’s national team, the health of their captain has become a major talking point just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What did Jorge Jesus say about Ronaldo?

The setback occurred late in Al-Nassr’s league victory over Al-Fayha when Ronaldo left the field in the 81st minute after feeling discomfort in his hamstring. Initial reports suggested the injury might only be minor fatigue, but further examinations painted a more worrying picture.

Speaking ahead of the team’s next league fixture against NEOM, Jorge Jesus revealed the result of those tests. “After tests, we see the injury suffered by Cristiano Ronaldo was more serious than expected.” That revelation marked a significant shift in the narrative surrounding the injury. What initially looked like a minor muscle issue has now been confirmed to be more complicated, forcing the Portuguese superstar to seek specialist care outside Saudi Arabia.

Jesus explained the next step in the recovery process. “Cristiano will now travel to Spain, like other players who went for treatment when they were injured. His injury required treatment in Madrid with his personal therapist, and we hope he returns quickly and helps the team.” The decision reflects Ronaldo’s long-standing practice of working with trusted medical staff in Madrid, where he spent nearly a decade playing for Real Madrid.

Treatment in Spain and uncertain timeline

The trip to Spain highlights the seriousness of the rehabilitation process. According to the club’s coaching staff, Ronaldo will follow a personalized recovery program under the supervision of his own physiotherapist, a strategy often used by elite athletes dealing with muscle injuries. However, the exact recovery timeline remains unclear.

Medical experts generally categorize hamstring injuries into several grades. A grade-one strain typically requires one to three weeks of recovery, while a grade-two tear can sideline a player for four to eight weeks. Until the full extent of the damage is confirmed, neither Al-Nassr nor Portugal can predict exactly when their captain will return.

Portugal’s World Cup preparation at risk

Beyond club soccer, the situation has also raised concerns for Portugal’s preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The national team, coached by Roberto Martinez, is scheduled to face Mexico on March 28 and the United States on March 31 in North America. Those matches represent the final testing ground before the global tournament begins.

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano suggested the injury could keep Ronaldo sidelined for several weeks. “Cristiano Ronaldo could be out for up to four weeks with muscle injury.” If that timeline proves accurate, Portugal could be forced to prepare for those friendlies without its captain and all-time leading scorer.

Despite the setback, the 41-year-old’s ultimate goal remains unchanged. The Portuguese legend hopes to participate in a record sixth World Cup, with the 2026 tournament set to begin in the United States, Mexico, and Canada in just over three months. At 41, maintaining fitness is crucial, and the medical teams around him will prioritize long-term recovery over rushing him back too soon.

After sharing several seasons at FC Barcelona and Inter Miami, Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have established a historic record in soccer history.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have shared practically a lifetime on the pitch, first taking their earliest steps together at FC Barcelona, and then reuniting at the twilight of their careers on the other side of the Atlantic with Inter Miami. Beyond the countless trophies won along the way, the Messi-Busquets partnership has now cemented itself in the history books with a remarkable record.

It all began in 2008, when Messi was already emerging as one of the game’s most exciting talents and a 20-year-old Busquets, a product of La Masia, was still working to earn his place on the biggest stage. In the 2008-09 season, Pep Guardiola’s first in charge at the Camp Nou, the new manager turned to one of his former B team players, handing Busquets his debut on September 13 in a 1-1 draw against Racing Santander, the first time the two shared a pitch together.

From that point on, Messi evolved into arguably the greatest forward in soccer history, while Busquets reinvented the defensive midfielder position with a style so unique that no one has quite managed to replicate it. By the time of Messi’s emotional departure from Barcelona in 2021, the two had shared the pitch together for the Blaugrana on 569 occasions.

Their reunion came in 2023, when both arranged moves to Inter Miami, a franchise that was struggling at the bottom of the MLS standings at the time. Together, they helped transform the Herons into one of the league’s powerhouses, contributing to Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup glory across the 84 games they shared in South Florida before Busquets made the decision to retire last season.

Messi, Busquets, and a record that will be tough to break

When combining their appearances together at Barcelona and Inter Miami, Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have been confirmed by the IFFHS as the pair who have played the most games alongside each other in soccer history, with a staggering total of 653. The number speaks not only to their extraordinary chemistry, but to the remarkable consistency and longevity of one of the sport’s most iconic partnerships.

To put it in perspective, one of Messi’s most prolific attacking partners, Luis Suárez, has shared the pitch with the Argentine just 324 times according to Transfermarkt, fewer than half the appearances Busquets managed alongside him.

The previous record holders were Busquets himself and Gerard Piqué who made their Barcelona debuts at the same time as Busquets made his alongside Messi in 2008. With both playing not only at Barcelona but also as key figures in one of the greatest Spain national team sides in history, the two accumulated 533 club appearances together and another 87 with La Roja, for a combined total of 620, falling 33 short of the Messi-Busquets mark.

Third on the all-time list are Bayern Munich and Germany legends Gerd Müller and Sepp Maier, the striker and goalkeeper duo who shared 14 seasons to accumulate 611 games together. The only current pair with any realistic chance of threatening the list is Thomas Müller and Manuel Neuer, also on 611, but with Müller now at Vancouver and Neuer still at Bayern, adding to their tally would require one to follow the other, an increasingly unlikely scenario given where both find themselves in the final chapters of their careers.

With the move to the MLS currently stalled, Orlando City are reportedly offering Antoine Griezmann a salary that challenges the one from league star Lionel Messi.

Antoine Griezmann has been one of the defining names of the 2026 MLS primary transfer window, with Orlando City making a determined push to bring the French star to North America. While the move appears to have hit a significant snag, reports indicate the Lions have tabled a contract offer that would make Griezmann one of the highest-paid players in the league, rivaling even Lionel Messi‘s earnings.

With Marco Pašalić and Martín Ojeda already in the fold, Orlando still have one Designated Player slot to fill as the 2026 season gets underway. Holding Griezmann’s discovery rights and well aware of his long-documented admiration for MLS and American culture, the club has made him their primary target for the current transfer window, which closes later this month. But completing the deal is proving to be far more complicated than anticipated.

According to ESPN, Griezmann has put his potential move to Orlando City on hold. Atlético Madrid’s run to the 2025-26 Copa del Rey final, secured after eliminating FC Barcelona in the semifinals, has given the Frenchman pause, presenting him with the opportunity to end his decade-long association with the club on the highest possible note.

The Copa del Rey final will pit the Colchoneros against Real Sociedad at La Cartuja in Seville on April 18. That date falls well beyond the MLS transfer window deadline of March 26, forcing Griezmann into a decision: commit to Orlando City in the coming days, or wait and explore a summer move instead.

A massive salary that almost reaches Lionel Messi’s

In an effort to tip the scales in their favor, Orlando City are prepared to make a significant financial statement. As reported by Matteo Moretto on Radio Marca, the club’s contract offer to Griezmann falls in the range of 10 million to 15 million euros, which works out to roughly 7 million euros net after taxes.

For context, the MLSPA’s 2025 Salary Guide lists Lionel Messi with a base salary of $12 million and a total compensation of $20,446,667. At the top end of Orlando’s reported offer, approximately $17.4 million, Griezmann would sit just around $3 million shy of what Inter Miami’s star earns in total compensation.

That figure would also place him as the second-highest earner in the entire league. That spot is currently held by LAFC’s Son Heung-min, who carries a base salary of $10.4 million and total compensation of $11.2 million. With Sergio Busquets now retired, Atlanta United’s Miguel Almirón sits third at $7.9 million in total compensation, making clear just how extraordinary Orlando’s offer would be for a franchise of their size.

After Mauricio Pochettino revealing his expectations for the 2026 World Cup with the USMNT, Chicago Fire boss and former coach of the national team Gregg Berhalter highlighted the squad experience as one of the key factors for it.

Mauricio Pochettino has set an ambitious target for the USMNT, openly admitting that his goal is nothing short of winning the 2026 World Cup on home soil. Underlining that bold declaration, Chicago Fire head coach and former USMNT boss Gregg Berhalter identified squad experience as one of the most critical factors in turning that dream into reality.

Speaking on The High Performance Podcast, Pochettino revealed that he told U.S. President Donald Trump he believes the USMNT can win the World Cup. “When we accepted the challenge to go there, it was because we really believe that we can win it. After a year and a half working there, people start to feel that we can win. The last few camps in October and November… we competed against very good teams and we started to show that possibility to perform well,” he stated.

The comments quickly made the rounds across media outlets and among prominent voices in the sport, generating considerable excitement with the tournament fewer than 100 days away. One of those who weighed in was Berhalter, who did not hesitate to throw his support behind the Argentine when asked about Pochettino’s World Cup ambitions by Bolavip‘s Martín O’Donnell at Thursday’s press conference ahead of the Fire’s Matchday 3 clash against Columbus Crew.

“I love it. I mean, that’s the mentality we need, right? We go into any tournament, and you believe you can win. And I think that’s the most important thing for the mindset of any group entering a tournament,” Berhalter said.

The Chicago boss echoed Pochettino’s confidence, going as far as to say the USMNT “can beat any team in the world,” while expressing genuine enthusiasm about the direction of the program. “I think it shows intention,” Berhalter added, signaling his belief in the squad’s untapped potential.

The former national team coach also stressed the value of the experience accumulated during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he guided the side to the Round of 16. “The group has had World Cup experience, the majority of that group. So they understand what a World Cup is like. We’ll have the home fans behind us, and I think it’s a great mindset to go into the World Cup with,” Berhalter concluded.

World Cup-proven stars and fresh legs, the bet of Pochettino

One of the moments that best illustrated the USMNT’s ceiling came during that 2022 World Cup, when Berhalter’s side held England to a 0-0 draw in the Group B clash, competing on equal terms with one of the tournament’s top contenders and the reigning European champions at the time.

That squad carried genuine quality, with the vast majority of players plying their trade in European clubs from the top five leagues. Berhalter’s starting lineup against England featured Matt Turner, Tim Ream, Walker Zimmerman, Antonee Robinson, Sergino Dest, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Timothy Weah, Haji Wright and Christian Pulisic.

Since then, the talent pool has grown considerably. New additions with European pedigree such as Mark McKenzie, Malik Tillman and Chris Richards have entered the picture, while Pochettino has also opened the door to MLS-based players including Matt Freese, Diego Luna and Gregg’s son Sebastian Berhalter, among others. The blueprint is clear: pair the World Cup-tested core from 2022 with a wave of hungry newcomers, and send a confident, well-rounded USMNT into battle in front of its home fans.

As preparations intensify for the next international window, uncertainty has suddenly surrounded the Portuguese icon following a worrying injury update from his club, Al-Nassr.

The soccer world may soon miss a moment many fans had been waiting for: a potential showdown between Cristiano Ronaldo and Christian Pulisic on the international stage. As preparations intensify for the next international window, uncertainty has suddenly surrounded the Portuguese icon following a worrying injury update from his club, Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo has been enjoying another prolific season in the Saudi Pro League, continuing to lead the attack for the Riyadh-based club while also remaining the central figure of the Portugal national team. At the same time, excitement had been building for the Selecao’s upcoming friendlies against the Mexico national team and the United States men’s national team; fixtures that could have featured a high-profile duel with Milan star Pulisic.

However, recent developments have thrown those expectations into doubt. Ronaldo’s injury has triggered concern not only for his club but also for Portugal’s preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup. While the full implications were not immediately clear, the situation has raised a crucial question: could the Portuguese captain miss those highly anticipated matches entirely?

The concern began during Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Fayha. Ronaldo, who had already missed a penalty earlier in the game, was visibly in discomfort late in the match before eventually being substituted in the 81st minute. Soon after, the Riyadh outfit confirmed the diagnosis in an official statement. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after the last game against Al-Fayha. He started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day.”

The update immediately raised alarms because of the timing. Ronaldo has been one of the most decisive players in the Saudi Pro League this season, delivering 22 goals and seven assists in just 24 league appearances, making him the competition’s top scorer. His performances have played a crucial role in Al-Nassr’s title push under coach Jorge Jesus, with the club fighting for its first league championship of the Ronaldo era. If the injury sidelines him for several weeks, it would leave a major void not only for Al-Nassr but also for Portugal’s upcoming international fixtures.

Race against time for international friendlies

Portugal’s next matches are part of the final preparations before the 2026 World Cup, making them extremely important for coach Roberto Martínez. The national team is scheduled to face Mexico on March 28 at the historic reopening of the famous Estadio Azteca, before taking on the United States on March 31 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

According to medical assessments relayed by Saudi physical therapist Thamer Al-Shahrani and widely reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the recovery timeline could threaten Ronaldo’s participation in those matches. “Cristiano Ronaldo could be out for up to four weeks with muscle injury. More tests will follow soon as Cristiano is working with clear target to return ASAP after hamstring problems”, the Italian journalist revealed.

Romano added that the timeline could extend long enough to affect the upcoming international break. “He’s expected to miss the upcoming two games as his recovery could take 2-4 weeks maximum — also on this will depend his presence with Portugal this month.” In other words, Ronaldo may not be available for the clashes against Mexico and the USMNT, meaning the anticipated meeting with Pulisic might not happen after all.

Crucial moment before the World Cup

The timing of the injury is particularly sensitive because these friendlies are expected to be Portugal’s final competitive rehearsals before the 2026 World Cup. For Ronaldo, the tournament could represent his sixth and potentially final World Cup appearance, further increasing the importance of maintaining full fitness in the months leading up to the competition.

Despite being 41 years old, Ronaldo has repeatedly defied expectations throughout his career with his remarkable physical conditioning. He has often returned from injuries faster than predicted and rarely misses extended periods of action. That resilience gives hope to both Al-Nassr and Portugal supporters that he could yet recover in time.

With elite clubs monitoring his development and the financial power of the Saudi Pro League continuing to reshape global soccer, questions have emerged about whether the Portuguese midfielder might one day follow his international teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to the Middle East.

As speculation swirls across Europe and beyond, the future of Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha has become a major talking point in the transfer market. With elite clubs monitoring his development and the financial power of the Saudi Pro League continuing to reshape global soccer, questions have emerged about whether the Portuguese midfielder might one day follow his international teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to the Middle East.

Vitinha’s performances for PSG have elevated him into one of the most admired midfielders in Europe, attracting attention from clubs such as Real Madrid and sparking discussions about lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League. Some reports have even suggested he could dramatically increase his salary by making such a move, potentially earning two or three times his current wages.

Yet when the 26-year-old finally addressed the rumors publicly, he delivered a striking response that revealed far more about his priorities than many expected. During a recent interview, the Portuguese midfielder made a bold seven-word declaration explaining his stance on chasing money and leaving Europe, a statement that has quickly become the centerpiece of the debate surrounding his future.

What did Vitinha say about possible move to Saudi Arabia?

Since joining Paris Saint-Germain from Porto in 2022 for around $46 million, Vitinha has transformed into a central figure in the Parisian midfield, particularly under the guidance of coach Luis Enrique. His ability to dictate tempo, maintain possession, and control games from deep has made him one of the most consistent performers in European soccer.

While interest from Real Madrid generated headlines in Europe, the financial power of the Saudi Pro League has also raised questions about whether the Portugal international could eventually be tempted by a massive offer similar to those accepted by many stars in recent years.

Speaking in an interview with Canal 11, the player acknowledged the enormous financial incentives available in Saudi Arabia. Yet he delivered a short but powerful statement that summed up his approach to career decisions. “Let’s not be naive. I’m more committed to a stable career.”

The seven-word declaration — “I’m more committed to a stable career” — revealed the midfielder’s priorities clearly: long-term sporting success matters more to him than financial gain. He went on to elaborate on his reasoning, explaining that he already earns a significant salary playing at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

“I already earn very well here in Europe, at a big club. Doubling or tripling that salary wouldn’t make me any happier.” The remark stands out in an era when many top players have accepted massive offers from the Middle East. The comments represent one of the clearest statements yet from the Portuguese international about his long-term future, especially after he signed a contract extension with PSG that runs until 2029.

As he prepares to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with South Korea, Son Heung-min has revealed his favorite legend in the tournament’s history.

Son Heung-min will undoubtedly be one of the main attractions at the 2026 World Cup. He is the biggest star for South Korea and has already proven to be a notable figure in the United States since arriving in MLS to play for LAFC. Now, the forward has chosen his favorite legend in the history of the FIFA tournament.

With the event in North America drawing closer, FIFA’s official social media accounts released a video this week showing players from different national teams selecting their favorite legend in World Cup history.

Among them was Son Heung-min, who did not hesitate in his answer: “Cristiano Ronaldo.” Unlike many of the other players interviewed, the LAFC star did not choose an icon from his own country, instead basing his selection on personal preference and his admiration for the Portuguese forward’s qualities.

This is not the first time Son has singled out Ronaldo above any other player. In fact, a few months ago he also named the Portugal star as an inspiration. “Cristiano Ronaldo has always been my biggest idol and I’ve grown up watching him when he was playing for Manchester United alongside Park Ji Sun. I still watch him play and he’s still my idol,” Son said.

Who’s your pick? 👀 100 days until we watch new legends rise! #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/H3opckXOK0

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) March 3, 2026

Other players gave a variety of answers. South Korea star Lee Jae-sung chose a legend from his own country, Park Ji Sung. Others did the same, including Brazil’s Estevao, who picked Ronaldo Nazario; Colombia’s Luis Diaz, who highlighted Radamel Falcao Garcia; and Japan’s Takefusa Kubo, who named Yuto Nagatomo.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo a World Cup legend?

Beyond Son Heung-min’s comments and his personal reasons for choosing Cristiano Ronaldo, it is fair to ask whether the 41-year-old forward can truly be considered a World Cup legend based on his performances with the Portugal national team.

In Ronaldo’s favor, he is among the players who have appeared in the most editions of the FIFA tournament in history. So far he has played in five, starting with Germany 2006, and he is tied with players such as Lionel Messi, Lothar Matthaus, Gianluigi Buffon, and Andres Guardado. In fact, this year he could break that record and become the first player to appear in six World Cups, something Messi could also achieve.

However, in terms of team results, Ronaldo’s World Cup résumé is less remarkable. Across his five appearances, Portugal’s best finish was fourth place in 2006, when they were eliminated by France in the semifinals. That was followed by one quarterfinal exit, two Round of 16 eliminations, and one group-stage exit.

Individually, Cristiano Ronaldo’s numbers are solid, though they fall short of the extraordinary standards he has set throughout his career. He has played 22 matches at the World Cup — fifth on the all-time list — recording 8 goals and 2 assists. His best tournament performance came at Russia 2018, when he scored a hat trick against Spain and added another goal against Morocco.

Amid the major uncertainty surrounding Bernardo Silva, Manchester City have reportedly decided to pursue a midfield reinforcement. For this reason, Pep Guardiola appears to be leading the race against Manchester United for a Bundesliga star valued at €70 million.

Despite an unstable start to the season, Pep Guardiola has managed to steer Manchester City‘s performances back on track following the arrival of Marc Guehi. Even so, they face significant uncertainty in midfield next season due to the possible departure of Bernardo Silva. As a result, the Citizens are reportedly leading the race ahead of Manchester United to sign a Bundesliga star.

Over the past few months, Manchester United have shown interest in Felix Nmecha, who has been shining at Borussia Dortmund, according to Fussball Daten. Amid their midfield rebuild, the Red Devils view the German’s box-to-box and organizational profile as key. Under contract until 2028, the German side are reportedly asking for €70 million. However, Manchester City have joined the race for his signing and are currently leading the pursuit.

According to TEAMtalk, the Citizens are pushing for Nmecha’s return, as he developed in the club’s youth academy. While the Manchester United showed interest first, Pep Guardiola’s side have now moved ahead in the race for his signature. At just 25 years old, the German wants to play in the Premier League. In addition, Manchester City may not hesitate to pay the transfer fee, as Bernardo Silva is reportedly heading towards a free agent exit.

After Jude Bellingham’s departure in 2023, Borussia Dortmund decided to give control of the midfield to Felix Nmecha, something that proved to be a complete success. He not only shines defensively, but also manages to organize the play, making him key for coach Nico Kovac. After failing to secure a big-money sale in recent years, the German side could now opt for the departure of the 25-year-old star.

Nmecha’s potential arrival at Manchester City could be crucial

Unlike previous seasons, Manchester City are going through a significant midfield transition. Pep Guardiola has not found the team’s stability in Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovacic, leaving much of the responsibility on Bernardo Silva. However, the Portuguese midfielder is reportedly heading toward a free-agent exit, something that could also happen with the Croatian, who has struggled to shine. Because of this, the arrival of Felix Nmecha could become crucial.

With Rodri Hernandez and Nico Gonzalez in the defensive pivot, the Citizens could deploy Nmecha as a playmaker, rotating with Reijnders. As a physical player who contributes both defensively and offensively — and still relatively young — the German could be seen by Guardiola as a vital addition. In addition, he developed in the club’s youth academy, meaning he already knows the working methodology, which could be a major advantage.

The General Manager of Los Angeles Galaxy addressed the possibility of signing Philippe Coutinho.

Los Angeles Galaxy face the challenge of bouncing back from a poor 2025 season and seriously competing for the Major League Soccer title this year. In that context, there has been speculation about the possible arrival of Philippe Coutinho, something the club’s General Manager recently addressed.

During an interview on Cobi Club with former USMNT player Cobi Jones, Will Kuntz was asked about the rumors regarding negotiations with Coutinho. “I can say that where there’s smoke, there’s fire,” the GM said, hinting that there was some truth to those reports.

“We analyzed many players during this offseason. There were several very interesting and high-level profiles,” Kuntz later added. “But the reality is that we wanted to prioritize bringing the group together as soon as possible and having the full squad as soon as possible. That’s why we couldn’t wait for players who weren’t aligned with that objective.”

LA Galaxy’s roster moves this year

While the MLS transfer window still has several weeks remaining — it does not close until March 26 — clubs have already been competing in the league for weeks. For that reason, most teams have opted to finalize their squads early rather than lose valuable time during the season.

That has been LA Galaxy’s approach, as they made several changes to their roster compared to last season’s disappointing campaign. One of the club’s most significant additions this year was forward Joao Klauss, who arrived from St. Louis. He was joined by three other players who were already in MLS: Jakob Glesnes, Justin Haak, and Erik Thommy. Among the departures, the most notable include Jonathan Perez to Nashville SC, John McCarthy to New York Red Bulls, and Matheus Nascimento to Botafogo.

While none of the players who joined LA Galaxy this year have the quality and experience of Philippe Coutinho, they all arrived early in the offseason and allowed head coach Greg Vanney to shape the squad with enough time to compete in MLS and the Concacaf Champions Cup.

What will happen with Coutinho?

For weeks, Coutinho’s future appeared to be down to two possible paths: LA Galaxy or retirement. The player’s own comments during his farewell to Vasco da Gama — in which he referenced prioritizing his mental health — seemed to increase the chances of that being the final outcome of his career.

However, with the possibility of joining Galaxy now off the table, reports have pointed to other opportunities for a potential return to Europe. According to Sports Illustrated, cited by Fichajes, three La Liga clubs have shown interest in the Brazilian midfielder: Elche, Girona, and Rayo Vallecano.

Coutinho has played in Spain before, with Espanyol and Barcelona. Those experiences came at very different moments in his career: with Espanyol he spent only a few months during the 2011–12 season on loan from Inter Milan, while he joined Barcelona as a global superstar in 2018 after shining at Liverpool. Considering that his last spell in La Liga did not leave the best impression, the Brazilian playmaker may be motivated by the opportunity to get another chance there.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup on home soil grows shorter, debates around the greatest players in U.S. men’s national team history are heating up again.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup on home soil grows shorter, debates around the greatest players in U.S. men’s national team history are heating up again. With the tournament set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, one question has resurfaced among fans: who truly stands as the greatest American player of all time, and what’s Christian Pulisic‘s rank on the eternal list?

A new ranking from Sports Illustrated attempted to answer that question by listing the Top 25 USMNT players in history. And the result has already sparked discussion across the soccer world, particularly because of where one current superstar landed. At the center of the conversation is a player who is still writing his story in Europe and who could lead the national team into the biggest tournament in its history.

According to the ranking, Christian Pulisic sits at No. 1 among the greatest American players ever. The list places the current Milan winger ahead of several legends who defined earlier generations of U.S. soccer.

For a player still in his prime, the placement is significant. Pulisic has already built a résumé unmatched by most American players abroad. After emerging at Borussia Dortmund, he later became a key figure at Chelsea, where he won the UEFA Champions League in 2021.

Since moving to Milan, his impact has only grown, with consistent goals and assists in Serie A helping solidify his reputation as the most influential American attacking player in Europe. By placing him at the top, Sports Illustrated effectively argues that Pulisic’s club success and international influence already outweigh the achievements of past U.S. icons.

Legends still close behind

Despite Pulisic’s top spot, the list heavily honors players who carried the U.S. national team through earlier eras. Second place went to Clint Dempsey, long regarded as one of the most creative and fearless American attackers. Dempsey shares the USMNT scoring record and built an impressive European career with Fulham and Tottenham.

Third place belongs to Landon Donovan, whose name is forever linked with the iconic last-minute goal against Algeria at the 2010 World Cup, a moment widely considered the most famous in U.S. soccer history.

Behind them, the ranking continues with several pillars of the national team’s past: Fourth place went to legendary goalkeeper Brad Friedel, followed by playmaker Claudio Reyna. Defensive stalwart Eddie Pope and midfielder Cobi Jones also made the top ten, alongside figures like Tab Ramos and Marcelo Balboa, who helped establish the modern identity of American soccer.

The list also highlights the influence of later stars such as Tim Howard, remembered for his heroic performance against Belgium at the 2014 World Cup, and midfield leader Michael Bradley.

Current generation also represented

Interestingly, the ranking doesn’t only celebrate past heroes. A few members of the current generation already appear on the list, including Giovanni Reyna and Weston McKennie. Their inclusion suggests that the modern U.S. player pool, many of whom compete in Europe’s top leagues, could eventually reshape the historical hierarchy. However, none of them come close to Pulisic’s position at the summit.

Thinking ahead of the 2026 World Cup, France national team has reportedly taken a decision on Kylian Mbappé’s presence in the upcoming March international window.

Kylian Mbappé‘s latest injury has forced both Real Madrid and the France national team to adjust their plans around the striker’s condition and recovery. With the 2026 World Cup fewer than 100 days away, Les Bleus have reportedly reached a final decision regarding Mbappé’s involvement in the upcoming March international window.

The March window represents the last opportunity for coaches of already-qualified nations to finalize and fine-tune their squads ahead of the tournament. For Didier Deschamps, who guided France through UEFA World Cup qualifying with a group stage victory, sweeping changes to a side considered among the favorites are unlikely, but one significant omission has been confirmed.

According to L’Équipe, Mbappé will not feature for France during the upcoming international break. The decision has been made to give the striker the best possible chance of recovering from the knee injury that has kept him out of action for Real Madrid in recent weeks.

The Spanish club recently released a medical update confirming that Mbappé is dealing with a knee sprain, the same issue that has troubled him since the end of 2025. With surgery already ruled out, considerable uncertainty remains over his precise return date, and the FFF, in agreement with the player, has determined that the risk of calling him up for friendlies outweighs the benefit, given the limited competitive importance of the fixtures.

That means there will be no Mbappé when France travels to the United States for the March window. Les Bleus are scheduled to face Brazil on March 26 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before taking on Colombia on March 29 at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.

The absences from those two friendlies will not raise alarm given the broader picture, but they do come at a personal cost for Mbappé. The striker currently sits on 55 international goals for France, just two shy of the all-time record of 57 held by Olivier Giroud, a milestone that will have to wait a little longer.

What about Real Madrid?

The situation at club level carries a different sense of urgency, not only because Mbappé has been Real Madrid’s top scorer in the 2025-26 season, but because Los Blancos are entering a pivotal stretch of the campaign. The first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 takes place next week, in a tie that could define the remainder of their season.

With that in mind, reports from Diario Marca indicate that Mbappé is doing everything in his power to be available for the March 11 first leg, targeting at the very least a place on the substitutes’ bench. Speaking at his press conference on Thursday ahead of the Celta Vigo match, interim head coach Álvaro Arbeloa offered an encouraging update on the striker’s progress.

“I speak with him every day, and of course, we’re closely monitoring what’s happening and how he’s doing. He’s getting better every day; it’s a process where we’re just taking it day by day. As of right now, it’s nothing but good news, and he’s steadily improving,” Arbeloa said, raising hopes of a return sooner than initially anticipated.

he discussion has intensified around stars such as Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, especially as the growing global influence of Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer continues to reshape the sport’s profile in North America.

As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, debate continues over where the best American players should develop their careers. The discussion has intensified around stars such as Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, especially as the growing global influence of Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer continues to reshape the sport’s profile in North America.

With Messi’s arrival having transformed the perception of MLS and drawn global attention to the league, some supporters have wondered whether more elite American players might follow the same path and return home before the 2026 tournament. However, one former international star has delivered a blunt assessment explaining why that scenario remains unlikely.

In a recent discussion about the future of American talent, former Italy international Giuseppe Rossi offered a stark perspective on why players like Pulisic and McKennie are expected to continue building their careers abroad rather than joining MLS, even as the World Cup approaches.

The current United States men’s national soccer team is widely regarded as one of the most talented squads the country has ever produced. Unlike previous generations, many of its key figures are competing at the highest level in Europe. Players such as Pulisic, McKennie, Folarin Balogun, and Antonee Robinson have all established themselves in elite European competitions.

Their presence in leagues like the Premier League, Serie A, and Bundesliga has played a major role in raising expectations for the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Yet despite MLS investing heavily in infrastructure and attracting major global names, Rossi believes the league still faces structural challenges that prevent it from becoming the preferred destination for elite American talent in their prime years.

What did Giuseppe Rossi say?

Speaking in an interview with Goal, Rossi did not hesitate when asked whether a top American player could reach their full potential by staying in MLS rather than moving abroad. “That is a big challenge, but the real football is played in Europe. Real football is played in Europe. That’s where everybody wants to be.”

The former forward, who spent his career at clubs including Manchester United, Villarreal, and Fiorentina before a late-career spell with Real Salt Lake, argued that the structure of the American league still differs significantly from that of traditional football competitions.

According to Rossi, MLS is organized more like a typical American sports league, which limits its ability to compete with the global football ecosystem dominated by European competitions. “The big league here in America is the MLS. The MLS is run like an American sport, but we have to remember that football is an international sport.”

He continued by highlighting the contrast between sports that originated in the United States and the global nature of soccer. “You could run the NFL, you could run the NBA, you could run baseball in an American way… because it’s an American sport. Those are three American sports, but football is an international sport.”

Why Europe still holds the advantage

In Rossi’s view, the gap between MLS and Europe’s top leagues remains substantial. He believes the best players will continue to pursue opportunities in Europe because of the level of competition and the structure of those leagues. “They have a long, long way to go to be at the same level of a Premier League, of a Serie A, of a Bundesliga. And rightfully so, they should aspire to play in Europe.”

Salary caps and centralized league management have long been debated topics in MLS, and Rossi hinted that these systems may limit the league’s ability to retain young stars. “It’s not the right structure that you’re going to attract young players to develop, to keep around. I think it’s great for owners… but I don’t like things that are built from the top down. I’m always a believer of building from the bottom up.”

Tyler Adams has managed to establish himself as one of the most solid defensive midfielders in the Premier League. As a result, the USMNT star is reportedly attracting attention from major English teams in a potential post-2026 World Cup move.

After shining at Leeds United, Tyler Adams joined AFC Bournemouth in 2023, establishing himself as one of the team’s most important players. While he has suffered numerous injuries during his tenure, the USMNT star has managed to stand out as one of the most solid defensive midfielders. For this reason, the 27-year-old star is reportedly attracting the attention of several top teams in the Premier League in post-2026 World Cup move.

According to the Daily Mail, Tyler Adams’ performances at AFC Bournemouth are attracting interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool. Under contract until 2028, he could leave for around €40 million. However, the USMNT star may not move until after the 2026 World Cup. While the 27-year-old midfielder is being monitored, he has not yet received any formal offers.

While he is coming off a medial knee ligament tear, Tyler has managed to regain his place in the starting lineup, shining alongside Alex Scott. The USMNT star may not stand out in terms of goals or creativity, but his defensive contribution fully balances the midfield. In addition, he has managed to remain one of the most consistent players over the last three years, making a move to Chelsea, Liverpool or Manchester United sound increasingly likely.

Tyler Adams’ potential move to Red Devils could be his best move

Unlike with the Blues, Tyler Adams might hold a key role in Manchester United. With Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s potential transfer, he could see significant playing time. Whether as a starter or in rotation, he may not face much competition for his spot. Moreover, his foot skills have developed well under coach Andoni Iraola, making him a solid fit for Michael Carrick’s system, especially given his €40 million price tag.

According to some British media outlets, the Red Devils are aiming for a midfield rebuild, keeping only Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount. With this in mind, they could target not only Tyler but also a world-class option such as Elliot Anderson or Bruno Guimarães. Taking this into account, the USMNT player might not be an undisputed starter, but he could still play an important role in the rotation, as he would not face much more competition.

If Tyler Adams decides to move to Chelsea, it could be more difficult for him to secure playing time. With Dário Essugo, Roméo Lavia, Andrey Santos and Moisés Caicedo already in the squad, the USMNT star might struggle to find minutes. It would be very different at Liverpool, as they are reportedly planning to depart with Curtis Jones, Stefan Bajčetić and Wataru Endo, opening space for him. However, it would depend on those departures.

Lionel Messi will play another edition of the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami.

In addition to Major League Soccer and the Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami will also face the challenge of competing in the Leagues Cup this year. The tournament that brings together top teams from MLS and Liga MX will begin after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Lionel Messi will be among the stars taking part.

This Thursday, the matchups and schedule for Phase One of the Leagues Cup were officially revealed. The tournament is set to begin on Tuesday, August 4, with the final scheduled for Sunday, September 6.

Inter Miami will, of course, be one of the tournament’s main attractions, driven by the global appeal Lionel Messi brings, as well as other stars such as Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul. They will play their three matches in the opening stage at home, at the soon-to-be inaugurated Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park.

The Herons will make their Leagues Cup debut on Wednesday, August 5 against Atletico San Luis. Three days later, they will play their second match against CF Monterrey — where German Berterame will face his former club — and they will close out Phase One on Wednesday, August 12 against Club Leon.

What will the 2026 Leagues Cup format look like?

This year, the Leagues Cup will keep most of the rules that were introduced in the 2025 edition. There will be 18 participating teams from each league, ranked according to their performance during the 2025 regular season. During Phase One and the quarterfinals, all matches will be played between teams from the two different leagues.

The biggest change in 2026 is that, for the first time, some matches in the tournament will be played in Mexico. The three highest-ranked Liga MX clubs in the Leagues Cup standings will have that advantage during the opening stage: Club Toluca, Tigres UANL, and Club America.

Once Phase One is completed, the four best teams from each league will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face one another. The semifinals will then take place — scheduled for September 1 and 2 — before the final on Sunday, September 6. The Leagues Cup champion will qualify directly for the Round of 16 of the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup, while two other clubs will also secure qualification for the continental tournament.

Messi has plenty of experience in the Leagues Cup

For Lionel Messi, the Leagues Cup holds special significance. It was the first tournament he played after arriving at Inter Miami in the summer of 2023. On that occasion, the Argentine forward led the Herons to the first title in the club’s history, a trophy that also helped Leo become the most decorated player of all time.

The 2024 edition was far less successful for Inter Miami, who were eliminated in the Round of 16 after losing to Columbus Crew. But in 2025 they were once again among the tournament’s protagonists, reaching the final before falling 3-0 to Seattle Sounders. Messi has posted impressive numbers in the Leagues Cup, recording 12 goals and 3 assists in 11 appearances.

FIFA will be implementing for the first time in the World Cup two guaranteed cooling breaks for the 2026 edition, prompting questions on how these will work.

FIFA has taken a significant step toward protecting player welfare with a notable rule change set to be exclusive to the 2026 World Cup, at least for now. Every match in the competition will feature two guaranteed cooling breaks, each governed by a specific protocol.

Cooling breaks have become a familiar sight in soccer over recent years, particularly when players are competing in extreme heat. However, this will mark the first time in the tournament’s history that two hydration breaks will be guaranteed in every single game of a World Cup.

The groundwork for this decision was laid during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, played under conditions similar to what the upcoming World Cup is expected to present. With several players, including Enzo Fernández, voicing complaints about the heat, FIFA president Gianni Infantino flagged the issue publicly, stating that “cooling breaks are very important and we will see what we can do, but we have stadiums with roofs, and we will definitely use these stadiums during the day next year.“

How will cooling breaks work during the World Cup?

Under current practice, cooling breaks have no fixed trigger point and are typically called in dead-ball situations around the 30th and 75th minutes. For the World Cup, more specific guidelines will be in place to bring greater consistency to the process.

In terms of timing, the breaks will occur at roughly the midpoint of each half, meaning approximately the 27th minute in the first half and the 72nd in the second. The exact moment will not be identical in every match, as it will depend on the flow of play, with the referee responsible for calling the stoppage.

Each cooling break will last three minutes. From the moment the referee blows the whistle, players will head to the sidelines to hydrate, and coaches will be permitted to address their players and make tactical adjustments in what amounts to a brief mid-half team talk.

What about the spectators?

Those three minutes are designed to give players sufficient time to recover, rehydrate and reduce the risk of heat-related illness during what will be a summer tournament played in warm conditions across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The experience for those watching from home, however, raises its own set of questions.

According to The Athletic, broadcasters are not required to cut away from the match during a cooling break. They will have the option to stay on the field, return to a studio for analysis, or use the time as they see fit, at their own discretion.

When it comes to commercial advertising, however, certain rules will apply. The outlet reports that any ads shown must align with FIFA’s official World Cup sponsors. In addition, broadcasters must wait at least 20 seconds after the referee’s whistle before cutting to commercials, and must return to the match feed no later than 30 seconds before play resumes, leaving a maximum window of approximately two minutes and ten seconds for advertising during each break.

The French forward has delivered goals and decisive performances throughout the season, but this season has been dominated by uncertainty surrounding his knee woes.

Kylian Mbappe arrived at Real Madrid in summer 2024 with enormous expectations, instantly becoming the centerpiece of the club’s attack. The French forward has delivered goals and decisive performances throughout the season, but this season has been dominated by uncertainty surrounding his knee woes. Amid that concern, a curious debate has begun to emerge: Does Real Madrid play better without Mbappe?

With the season entering a crucial phase across La Liga and the Champions League, Real Madrid now faces a complicated reality. Its star striker is battling discomfort in his left knee, leaving his availability uncertain. While the club insists the issue is manageable, the situation has reportedly triggered tension behind the scenes and raised questions about how the team performs without its most explosive attacker.

The Frenchman’sphysical issue dates back to early December, when he first felt discomfort after a league defeat against Celta Vigo. Since then, the problem has lingered despite periods in which he continued playing and scoring. Los Blancos eventually confirmed the diagnosis at the end of December, releasing a brief statement that offered little detail about the recovery timeline. “He has been diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee. His progress will be monitored,” the club stated.

Although Mbappe has continued to feature intermittently, the injury forced him to miss recent matches, including a shock 1-0 home defeat to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu. That result intensified scrutiny around both his fitness and Madrid’s overall performance.

Manager Alvaro Arbeloa acknowledged the delicate nature of the situation when discussing the forward’s recovery. “It’s hard to tell the difference between discomfort and injury,” Arbeloa explained. “Obviously, when someone isn’t playing, it’s because they’re injured… we decided that he should stop, recover, and come back with confidence.”

The key stat that sparked the debate

Amid the ongoing drama surrounding Mbappe’s fitness, an intriguing statistic has begun circulating in Spanish media. Kylian Mbappe has missed seven games for Real Madrid this season, and the club lost in three of them, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano.

The numbers immediately triggered debate among supporters and analysts. For a club accustomed to dominating domestic and European competitions, a 43 percent defeat rate in matches without their star forward is unusually high. While the sample size remains relatively small, the figures highlight how significantly the team’s dynamics can change when Mbappe is unavailable.

Why Mbappe’s presence still matters

Mbappe’s importance to Real Madrid extends far beyond simple goal totals. The French international provides several tactical elements that shape the team’s attacking identity. His explosive pace allows Madrid to transition rapidly from defense to attack. His movement behind defensive lines forces opponents to retreat deeper, creating space for teammates. And his clinical finishing often turns half-chances into decisive goals.

This season alone, Mbappe has scored 38 of Real Madrid’s 87 goals across all competitions, representing 43.7 percent of the team’s total scoring output. When he is absent, Madrid still possesses elite talent, but the attacking structure inevitably changes. The team loses its most direct outlet, and opponents can defend with slightly less fear of sudden counterattacks.

The numbers suggest that Real Madrid is not entirely dependent on Mbappe, but the Whites are clearly more consistent with him on the pitch. Winning four of seven matches without him demonstrates the squad’s depth and quality. However, the losses in those games indicate that his presence provides a crucial margin for error.

Despite Michael Carrick’s strong impact at Manchester United, they are reportedly still searching for a candidate. In light of this, Gareth Bale and Paul Scholes have dared to name an ‘ideal’ manager to lead the Red Devils for the upcoming season.

After several years of sporting failures, Manchester United seem to be finding some consistency under Michael Carrick. Despite this, they appear to be looking for a candidate with experience and several titles to his name to lead the project. In light of this, Gareth Bale and Paul Scholes decided to join the conversation, recommending a world-class manager as the “perfect” option to take charge of the Red Devils.

“I think he (Carlo Ancelotti) would do great [at Manchester United]. He’s not just the manager, he is a coach as well. He can do the tactical stuff [too]… If you go into a big club, you’ve got good players, whether they’re performing at the time or not. Like Man United, they have been the last few weeks, but, prior to that, they hadn’t been performing… He’ll get the best out of players and will just simplify things, which you see now with Michael Carrick,” Gareth Bale said, via The Overlap.

Joining Bale statements, Red Devils legend Paul Scholes echoed the Welsman thoughts. Known as a fierce critic of Carrick’s tenure, he decided to support the Italian coach: “The perfect one out there – I say perfect – Ancelotti is still out there. I know he is coach of Brazil. He is the perfect one for Manchester United where you think he will make players feel a million dollars. And he has the experience of winning stuff,” he said, via The Overlap.

While Ancelotti is a coach appreciated by the Red Devils, he has already made it clear that he is close to extending his contract with Brazil for four more years, complicating his arrival. With this in mind, the English side would have a very difficult task convincing him to join the team, as he would not have the same level of stability. For this reason, Manchester United have rather limited options when it comes to choosing their next manager.

Report: Carrick gains ground as Manchester United’s head coach

Following the mid-season departure of Ruben Amorim, Manchester United decided to appoint Michael Carrick as interim manager until the end of the season. With this, they aimed to buy time to search for a world-class coach, moving away from inexperienced candidates after failing in recent years. However, the Englishman coach now appears to be gaining momentum to become the permanent manager due to compelling reasons.

Throughout the season, the Red Devils have targeted Thomas Tuchel and Luis Enrique as their priority candidates. However, both managers appear to have rejected the possibility, remaining in England and at PSG, respectively. While Oliver Glasner seemed like a strong candidate, he now appears to be attracting the attention of Red Bull as Global Head of Soccer. In light of this, Michael Carrick emerges as a strong possibility.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United are considering backing Carrick as their permanent manager. After running out of experienced options, the Englishman’s impact has caught attention, as he has kept the team unbeaten and in the Champions League places since his arrival. In addition, Michael has already expressed that he would be open to this possibility, leaving the door open to any outcome.

Despite the many rumors surrounding Kylian Mbappé’s injury, Real Madrid remain quite optimistic about his imminent return in a couple of weeks. In light of the situation, legend Luis Figo offered heartfelt advice to the French star as he continues his recovery process.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Kylian Mbappé has established as the team’s most decisive player. After netting 38 goals, he has consolidated his place as the team’s top scorer, proving crucial against world-class opponents. However, the Frenchman has suffered an injury to his left knee that has created significant uncertainty. In response, Real Madrid legend Luis Figo decided to offer advice to the 27-year-old star on his recovery.

After missing the game against CD Osasuna, Mbappé was diagnosed with a sprained left knee. However, he is reportedly suffering from a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament, which could keep him out longer than expected. Despite these reports, Los Blancos remain optimistic about his return, expecting him to be back for the second leg against Manchester City. In light of this, Luis Figo decided to give Mbappé some advice on his recovery.

“Mbappé’s injury is really a matter of seeing, on a personal level, what the player truly feels. Whether he can take the risk or not, and if by taking that risk he might suffer worse consequences… In my case, on some occasions, I pushed myself and it didn’t go so well, but it was always because I wanted to be present on the pitch… Afterwards, those sacrifices take their toll,” Figo said, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Following Rodrygo’s season-ending ACL and meniscus injury, fans have been urging caution in managing Mbappé’s health, a concern reinforced by Figo’s words. Nevertheless, coach Álvaro Arbeloa offered a positive update, raising hope for a mid-March return. However, this optimism also brings concerns about a potential relapse that could sideline him of the 2026 World Cup and the next season.

Real Madrid face serious doubts as injuries hit several star players

Unlike previous seasons, Los Blancos have suffered several injuries to key players such as Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão and now Rodrygo Goes. Far from ACL injuries being an isolated incident, Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba have also suffered this injury in recent years. In addition, Real Madrid are dealing with constant player injuries, generating significant doubts among fans regarding the club’s medical services.

Seeking to distance all criticism and rumors, coach Álvaro Arbeloa explained that the decision to have a second opinion on the injuries of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé came from the club itself. With this, he rules out any lack of trust from the players in the medical staff. What still remains unaddressed, however, are the constant injuries to the team’s stars, which raise doubts regarding physical preparation and the workload of matches.

Qatar are still not ready to give up their bid to host the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain, which would feature Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi as the main attractions.

In recent days, there has been plenty of speculation surrounding the staging of the Finalissima. The clash between Argentina and Spain, headlined by Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, is scheduled to be played on Friday, March 27 in Doha, Qatar, but conflicts in the region have raised doubts about whether the event can go ahead as planned.

Reports have suggested the possibility that the match could still be played on the scheduled date, during the March international break, but at a different venue. Moving the game away from a region currently facing serious security threats and taking it to another continent could be a solution, though the situation is far from straightforward.

“We are aware of the speculation surrounding the Finalissima, given the situation in the region. Discussions are ongoing with the local organizers, who have made a tremendous effort to ensure the match is a success,” UEFA said on Thursday in a statement sent to Europa Press.

“The final decision is expected to be made by the end of next week,” UEFA added. “At the moment, no alternative venue is being considered. We will not make further comments until a decision has been taken.”

Qatar want to host the Finalissima

UEFA’s statement came after a meeting involving all parties responsible for organizing the event. That was revealed by journalist Gaston Edul, who closely covers the Argentina national team. “No decision was made in today’s meeting. It will be decided next week,” he wrote on his X account.

“The Finalissima has not been canceled,” Edul added, before pointing out the main obstacle to moving the match to another venue. “Qatar do not want to give up the match easily because of the commercial agreement they already have in place. There have been no changes yet.”

In fact, Qatar had planned to host a series of matches during the March FIFA break, with the Finalissima as the centerpiece, along with friendlies involving Argentina, Spain, Serbia, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Given the scale of the event, the Asian country was expecting to generate significant benefits from these matches, which is why they are reluctant to give up that opportunity now.

Potential venues rumored to host the Finalissima

While UEFA have clarified that there have been no official moves to relocate the Finalissima to another country, that has not stopped speculation from growing about possible destinations for the showdown between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

Marca reported earlier this week that two cities have emerged as the leading candidates to host the Finalissima: “The two most likely venues (not the only ones), if Qatar withdraws, are London, where the first and only edition of this tournament was played in 2022, and Miami, which will host World Cup matches.” Other possible alternatives could include Madrid and Rome.

While Ángel Di María has stepped away from Argentina, he remains attentive to the development of his former teammates. For that reason, the 2022 World Cup winner delivered strong criticism of Atlético Madrid's handling of their stars, such as Julián Álvarez, exposing their weaknesses.

Despite shining with Argentina in the 2022 World Cup, Ángel Di María decided to announce his retirement from the national team in 2024, continuing his career with Rosario Central. Nevertheless, he has remained very attentive to the development of his former teammates ahead of the 2026 edition. In this context, he issued strong criticism toward Atlético Madrid’s handling of their stars such as Julián Álvarez, exposing a major weakness.

“Atlético de Madrid are strange. From one moment to the next, they sideline their players and then they start to sort of disappear; it happens to most of the guys who were there. Very few manage to keep a run as starters, who never come out of the lineup… The beautiful thing about the national team is that when they put on the sky blue and white shirt, they become different players — they transform and play incredibly,” Angel Di Maria said, via Radio La Red.

Even though Diego Simeone is the legendary head coach of Los Colchoneros, very few Argentine players have managed to shine consistently at the club. In fact, they have had a series of players who failed to make a real impact: Luciano Vietto, Nicolás Gaitán, Eduardo Salvio, Cristian Ansaldi, Matías Kranevitter, among others. Along with them, the coach has still not managed to get the best version out of Nahuel Molina and Julián Álvarez.

Both Molina and Álvarez are heavily criticized players at Atlético Madrid. Although they usually shine with Argentina as regular starters, both are experiencing a rather irregular spell at the club, losing their status as undisputed starters to Marcos Llorente and Alexander Sørloth. As a result, criticism toward Simeone continues to grow, as only a few players truly seem to reach their full potential under him.

Julián Álvarez’s future could be far from Atletico Madrid

Julián Álvarez established himself as one of the best strikers in the world, shining at Manchester City. However, Erling Haaland’s undisputed starting role forced his departure from the club, leading to his €75 million move to Atlético Madrid. Although he was expected to consolidate himself as a cornerstone of the team, the Argentine is going through a rather difficult period and could look for a way out.

While Julian managed to shine by scoring 29 goals in his first season, he is not at his best. With his overall performance declining, coach Simeone has opted for Alexander Sørloth, causing him to lose his status as an undisputed starter. Given this situation, Barcelona are reportedly interested in him, as he may be motivated to leave. However, his departure would not be easy, as Diario Sport claims that he would be valued at around €150 million.

As the club navigates a demanding stretch of fixtures, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has attempted to reassure supporters that progress is being made.

Knee injuries can often create as many questions as they do answers. At Real Madrid, uncertainty has become the dominant theme surrounding the fitness of star forward Kylian Mbappe. As the club navigates a demanding stretch of fixtures, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has attempted to reassure supporters that progress is being made. Yet, behind the scenes, speculation continues to swirl around the forward’s recovery and the timing of his comeback.

The situation has only grown more intriguing in recent days, as Arbeloa publicly addressed Mbappe’s condition while reports hinted at a controversial timeline for his return. With Real Madrid preparing for key domestic and European matches, the striker’s recovery has quickly become one of the most closely watched storylines of the season. The France captain has been sidelined with a sprain in his left knee, an injury that has troubled him since December and recently forced him to miss several important matches.

What did Arbeloa say about Mbappe?

While the exact timeline for his return remains unclear, Arbeloa insists the situation is improving. Speaking at a press conference, the Spanish coach stressed that the player’s recovery is progressing positively. “Of course, I speak to him every day,” the manager said. “It’s under control, every day he’s better. I’ve said it’s a process where we’ll go day by day according to his feelings. Right now, it’s all good news.”

The 27-year-old star has already missed the Champions League playoff second leg against Benfica as well as a 1-0 La Liga defeat to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu. That loss left Los Blancos four points behind Barcelona in the league title race. Madrid now faces a demanding run of fixtures, including a league trip to Celta de Vigo and a crucial Champions League two-leg clash with Manchester City.

Despite the pressure, Arbeloa reiterated that the club is carefully managing Mbappe’s recovery. “We’re keeping a close eye on what’s happening to him, how he’s doing. It’s a process we’ll take day by day, monitoring how he’s feeling. He’s getting better every day.”

The controversial return timeline causing inside rift

While Arbeloa remains publicly optimistic, the debate surrounding Mbappe’s recovery intensified after reports emerged about when Real Madrid hopes the forward could return. According to Diario AS, the club believes Mbappe could recover in time for the second leg of their Champions League round-of-16 clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

However, that timeline has reportedly sparked disagreement. The player’s entourage is said to be far more cautious about the injury, believing the situation could be more serious than initially described. The concern revolves around the condition of the posterior cruciate ligament in the player’s knee, which some sources claim is under significant strain.

Spanish journalist Anton Meana explained the issue in stark terms. “The player’s left posterior cruciate ligament is at its limit,” he told Cadena SER. “We are going to call it a sprain because that is what the medical report says, but the injury is really significant.”

Because of this, Mbappe’s camp is reportedly unwilling to accept Real Madrid’s estimated recovery timeline, fearing that rushing the striker back could worsen the injury. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, protecting the long-term health of the France captain is also a major priority for his entourage.

With Real Madrid facing serious midfield problems, they have reportedly set their sights on Vitinha, who is seen as a potential solution to their issues. In response, the PSG star has decided to shut down all the rumors at their source, delivering some emphatic words.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled to find real consistency. While they shine offensively thanks to Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., they have not managed to find balance in midfield. Facing these issues, Los Blancos have reportedly set their sights on Vitinha as a marquee reinforcement. However, the PSG star decided to shut down all rumors of his departure at the root, leaving a blunt statement.

“It would be foolish for me to leave. I don’t think it would be the best thing for me. I feel very good here at PSG! I feel that people appreciate me a lot and that I have earned that affection. I love being here; my family does too. The group is fantastic and the head coach (Luis Enrique) is incredible,” Vitinha said, via Canal 11.

Having arrived for just €40 million in 2022, he established himself as one of the most impactful signings in the history of the French club. Emerging as one of the best players in the world, Vitinha has become a cornerstone of PSG and stands as one of the highest-paid players on the roster, with a contract until 2029. Furthermore, he is one of Luis Enrique’s untouchable players, which makes the idea of his move to Real Madrid nonsensical.

Despite Vitinha’s rejection, Los Blancos remain eager to strengthen their midfield, making a summer 2026 signing imminent. They could prioritize bringing back Nico Paz, using the €9 million buy-back clause, alongside Kees Smith, who stands out at AZ Alkmaar. With this, they will not only reduces the transfer expenditure but also results in considerable salary savings compared to pursuing the Portuguese player.

Real Madrid could adjust their midfield strategy next season

Ahead of next season, Real Madrid do not seem to have a clear idea of who their head coach will be. Following the poor results under Álvaro Arbeloa, they have reportedly turned their attention to other candidates, with Massimiliano Allegri emerging as one of the most mentioned. Despite this uncertainty, Los Blancos could still push for a structural change in midfield, with the possible arrival of Nico Paz seen as a key organizing presence.

Los Blancos have key players in midfield such as Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham. Despite this, they have not achieved a notable balance, so they could opt for an adjustment in the formation with four midfielders, where Paz would join the others near the base of the play. With this, Vitinha’s non-arrival might not be detrimental, as they could make the most of their stars and bet on Mbappe and Vinicius as the only attacking forwards.

The Saudi Pro League has reportedly issued a key message to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, Karim Benzema's Al Hilal, and the rest of the clubs regarding the continuation of the competition.

The Saudi Pro League found itself at the center of a major decision as tensions continued to escalate across the Middle East, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema serving as the faces of a league now facing an uncertain path forward. Reports have now emerged claiming the SPL has issued a key message to Al Nassr, Al Hilal and the rest of the league’s clubs regarding the continuation of fixtures.

A pressing question hung over whether the SPL would follow Qatar’s lead and suspend its activities. The Qatar Football Association had already announced on Sunday the postponement of all tournaments, competitions and matches “effective from today and until further notice,” but Saudi authorities appear to have reached a different conclusion.

According to The Athletic, the Saudi Pro League has informed its clubs that upcoming fixtures will not be suspended and will proceed as originally scheduled. While the Asian Football Confederation moved to postpone matches in international competitions such as the AFC Champions League Elite and Champions League Two, the Saudi authorities have opted not to follow suit on the domestic front.

That said, the decision remains subject to change as the situation develops. As the outlet noted, security protocols are being followed to ensure the safety of all involved, but the landscape “continues to be monitored day by day.“

What’s next for the SPL?

Matchday 25 gets underway on Thursday with Al Kholood hosting Al Qadsiah and Damac FC welcoming Al Riyadh. Beyond the results on the pitch, both matches will also serve as an important gauge of how smoothly the league can operate and what protocols need to be in place going forward.

On Friday, Al Hilal will host Al Najma, who currently sit at the foot of the table. Benzema‘s side has been struggling for consistency of late, picking up back-to-back draws against Al Ittihad and Al Taawoun, dropping them from the summit to third place with 58 points from 24 games.

Then on Saturday, Al Nassr will welcome Neom SC to Al Awwal Park. Cristiano Ronaldo’s side has been in formidable form domestically, riding a 10-game winning streak in the SPL to sit top of the standings with 61 points from 24 matches.

Ronaldo himself, however, will not be part of it. The Portuguese star was recently diagnosed with a hamstring injury sustained in the win over Al Fayha, ruling him out of Saturday’s fixture. Head coach Jorge Jesus is expected to turn to Abdullah Al-Hamdan to fill the void up front as Ronaldo bides his time on the road to recovery.

With Kylian Mbappe as the main face, Real Madrid are heading to the Round of 16 Champions League series against Manchester City with a list of six stars injured.

Kylian Mbappé‘s latest injury has become a serious headache for Real Madrid in a season that has fallen well short of expectations. With Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City looming in the Champions League Round of 16 next week, the French star headlines a list of six Madrid players currently sidelined and in doubt for the tie.

After a blistering start to the season that saw him sitting atop both the La Liga and Champions League scoring charts, Mbappé’s momentum was halted at the turn of the year by a knee sprain. The same issue flared up again ahead of the playoff second leg against Benfica, prompting the club to enroll him in a specific recovery program while opting not to disclose a return date.

Adding to the growing injury concerns, Rodrygo has now been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and the start of the next, after tearing his ACL and lateral meniscus in his right leg. The news sent shockwaves through the squad, drawing messages of support from Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Brazilian legend Neymar.

Rodrygo’s injury brings Real Madrid‘s walking wounded to six. Alongside Mbappé’s knee sprain, defender Éder Militão is also recovering from a torn ACL, while David Alaba, Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos are all sidelined with muscular problems.

Ceballos suffered a tear in the soleus muscle of his right leg in late February, with a recovery timeline of around seven weeks. Alaba, meanwhile, has been plagued by chronic muscular issues throughout the 2025-26 campaign, and despite managing to hold down a starting berth, he was substituted off in the 55th minute of the most recent match against Getafe.

Bellingham, for his part, is still managing an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg, one that appears likely to rule him out for the entire Manchester City series. According to Marca, the Englishman has decided to seek a second medical opinion on his hamstring, following a similar path to Mbappé, who recently consulted outside specialists to assess his knee.

Real Madrid hopeful to see Mbappe against City

With the 2026 World Cup fewer than 100 days away, Mbappé’s knee has become a focal point of concern not only for Real Madrid but also for the France national team, which has been closely monitoring his condition. With surgery already ruled out, both Mbappé and the club are firmly against taking any risks that could lead to a fresh setback or further damage to the same area.

That said, there is still a flicker of hope on the horizon for both player and club. As reported by Diario AS, Mbappé has not been entirely ruled out for the first leg against Manchester City on Wednesday, March 11, with the player acutely aware of just how much is at stake in what remains of Real Madrid’s season.

Initially, the expectation was that Mbappé might be ready to return, albeit not at full fitness, in time for the second leg on Tuesday, March 17. But the player’s own ambitions appear to go further than that, with reports suggesting he is pushing to be available for the first leg, at minimum as an option off the bench, in what would be a race against the clock.

Lionel Messi can still get handed a squad boost in the 2026 MLS season with Inter Miami reportedly eyeing the signing of a young Argentine prospect.

Lionel Messi has wasted no time making his mark on the 2026 MLS season, reigniting expectations with a stunning brace in Inter Miami‘s 4-2 comeback victory over Orlando City. With the club’s ambitions stretching across all competitions, reports have emerged linking the Herons to a young Argentine prospect as they look to add further depth to their roster.

The 2026 winter transfer window proved to be the most active in Inter Miami’s history from a spending standpoint. Messi’s squad was bolstered by the returns of key players like Tadeo Allende and Rocco Ríos-Novo, as well as marquee additions in Germán Berterame and goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair (among others), but the club’s business may not be done yet.

According to journalist Leandro Belli and transfer expert César Luis Merlo, Inter Miami have added Racing Club youngster Matías Acevedo to their list of potential signings. Having failed to secure the permanent transfer of Baltasar Rodríguez from the Argentine club, the MLS side is now turning their attention to the 18-year-old as a viable alternative.

The key question surrounding a potential move for Acevedo is timing. As both journalists report, Inter Miami are weighing whether to make an offer before the primary transfer window closes on March 26, or to wait until the summer window, with the move described as an attractive opportunity rather than an urgent priority.

Acevedo first announced himself as one of Racing’s brightest prospects when he made his debut in September 2024 at just 16 years old, logging 15 minutes of first-team action. While he has yet to return to the senior squad since, the offensive midfielder has since been promoted to the reserve team and continues to develop.

Standing 5-foot-5 and still just 18 years old, Acevedo is a technically gifted player capable of operating as an attacking midfielder or as a winger on either flank. With Tadeo Allende currently the primary option on the right side, the youngster would offer genuine competition and cover, particularly given his ability in one-on-one situations, an area where the current Inter Miami squad, Messi aside, lacks proven options.

Inter Miami still able to pull off one more signing

At a recent FIFA event, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas suggested the club’s window activity may be winding down, saying he would not be “anticipating any more signings.” Still, the board member also noted that six of their seven identified targets for the current transfer window had already been secured.

That said, the door remains open for at least one additional move. Inter Miami acquired an international roster slot from the New England Revolution, with a club statement noting that the slot will return to New England when the secondary transfer window opens, leaving the Herons with the flexibility to make one more addition before the March 26 deadline.

Antoine Griezmann could stay after Atletico Madrid's elimination of Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinals.

The saga that could see a star going to MLS continues as his move may be delayed. Antoine Griezmann was part of Atletico Madrid’s victory in the Copa del Rey semifinals over Barcelona that could see him stay.

Griezmann has an offer from Orlando City that tempts him to leave the continent. However, Tuesday’s result gave the striker a new goal with the potential of a trophy, and that was the deciding factor in putting the transfer on hold for now, according to ESPN.

The report states: “Antoine Griezmann has put a potential move to Orlando City on hold this season now that Atletico has advanced to the Copa del Rey final. Diego Simeone and the front-office team were keen to see Griezmann stay on for the season to give him the best potential farewell possible, including a shot at the Copa del Rey trophy.”

Atletico Madrid’s executive addresses Griezmann’s contract

This information backs what was said by an Atlético Madrid executive. Last Friday during the Champions League draw, Mateu Alemany referred to Antoine Griezmann’s situation and reinforced the idea that his stay remains likely.

The executive made it clear that, despite the speculation surrounding the forward’s future, the club remains calm about his contract status and trusts his commitment at this stage of the season, especially with important matches ahead.

Alemany said: “This is a topic that sparks much journalistic speculation. Antoine has two more years left on his contract with us; he’s focused on the things that are coming for the club. His performance has been great.”

Griezmann’s deadline to make a move

With the European transfer window closed, any departure would depend on the destination league’s rules; in MLS the registration deadline is March 26, a date that falls during a crucial stretch of the season and makes an immediate move unlikely even if a future transfer cannot be ruled out.

Massimiliano Allegri’s arrival transformed AC Milan’s reality, turning them into one of the top teams in Italy. Despite this, the coach is not entirely certain about continuing with the Rossoneri, drawing interest from a LaLiga side ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Following the inconsistencies of recent years, AC Milan decided to bet on the return of Massimiliano Allegri. While he was coming off a criticized spell at Juventus, but the coach has managed to make a real impact on the team. With only two defeats in Serie A, the Rossoneri have established themselves as one of the best sides in Italy. Despite this, the Italian’s future is far from secure, drawing the attention of a LaLiga side.

While Allegri only arrived at AC Milan at the beginning of the season, the coach may not be entirely certain about staying for another year. According to Michele Criscitiello on Sportitalia, the Italian is reportedly quite dissatisfied with the management of the front office and the club’s transfer policy. For that reason, he is said to be considering leaving at the end of the season, which has allegedly attracted the attention of Real Madrid.

According to Antonio Vitiello in Corriere dello Sport, Massimiliano Allegri is once again on Real Madrid’s radar, as the club seeks an immediate impact for next season. After having been approached on two previous occasions while he was at Juventus, the Italian could consider the possibility, but the Spanish side may be required to pay a fee, as the coach remains under contract with the Rossoneri until 2027.

Although he may not have led the Rossoneri to a Serie A title, Allegri’s potential departure would be highly detrimental. Despite limited investment, he has managed to maximize his players’ performances by imposing a clear tactical structure. Should he guide them to the Champions League, the coach would demand attacking reinforcements, and if he does not receive them, he could choose to leave the club, as he is seeking a truly competitive project.

AC Milan may need key reinforcements to convince Allegri

Throughout the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri have managed to establish themselves as one of the most solid teams in Italy. Unlike in previous campaigns, they have excelled in defense and midfield, suffering only two defeats in Serie A. Nevertheless, AC Milan still have significant issues within their roster that raise doubts about Massimiliano Allegri’s continuity. For that reason, they may require strategic signings to boost their offensive competitiveness.

With uncertainty surrounding Luka Modrić’s continuity and the lack of scoring impact, AC Milan may need at least two world-class signings: a playmaking midfielder and an established center forward. Although names such as Bernardo Silva, Leon Goretzka, Mateo Kovačić, Dušan Vlahović, and Moise Kean have been mentioned, they have not secured any reinforcements. If they fail to land proven additions, Allegri could ultimately decide to leave the club.

Lionel Scaloni is reportedly interested in a La Liga player who is eligible to represent either Argentina or Spain.

As Argentina and Spain move through a pivotal stretch while awaiting clarity on the next Finalissima, the two national teams are also linked by another developing storyline. A La Liga player is eligible to play for either side, and Lionel Scaloni is reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

According to Diario AS, Joaquin Martinez Gauna, nicknamed Oso, has caught Argentina’s attention. “AFA and Lionel Scaloni, the head coach, already have Oso on their radar and, if he continues to break out, they will try to snatch him away from La Roja,” the report states.

Martinez Gauna is a 22-year-old left back who can also operate as a wide midfielder. He emerged in La Liga over the past several months after making only a handful of appearances between 2023 and 2024. This season, he has played 12 matches for Sevilla across the Spanish league and the Copa del Rey, recording two assists.

Oso’s personal background allows him to choose between two national teams. He was born in Torrevieja, Alicante, in July 2003, making him Spanish by birth. However, his parents are Argentine and moved to Europe more than two decades ago, meaning the young defender is also eligible to represent Argentina.

Where would Martinez Gauna have a better chance to play?

Given that Joaquin Martinez Gauna is primarily a left back, with the versatility to push further up the field if needed, the question becomes whether his profile better fits the current needs of Argentina or Spain.

Luis de la Fuente’s side currently have multiple options at that position. Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella is widely regarded as one of the most reliable players in the world in that role, while Spain also have Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo available.

Argentina, by contrast, have fewer established options in that area. Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nicolas Tagliafico is expected to remain the starting left back, but there is uncertainty about who will serve as his primary backup. Marcos Acuña could remain in contention, although his age (34) is a factor.

Other alternatives available to Lionel Scaloni include Bournemouth’s Julio Soler and RC Strasbourg’s Valentin Barco, both of whom have minimal experience with the senior national team. That scenario appears to tilt the balance toward Argentina when considering where Oso might have a clearer path to playing time.

Other players contested by Argentina and Spain

The shared language and cultural ties between Argentina and Spain have, for decades, led to significant migration between the two countries. During the first half of the 20th century, migration largely flowed from Europe to South America, while in this century the trend has largely reversed.

That dynamic has inevitably had an impact on soccer, with numerous players over the years forced to choose between the two nations. The most iconic case is Alfredo Di Stefano, who represented Argentina early in his career and later became a star for Spain after establishing himself at Real Madrid.

FIFA regulations now impose much stricter limits on such cases, requiring players to commit permanently once they represent a senior national team in official competition. Alejandro Garnacho and Nicolas Paz are recent examples of Spain-born players who represent Argentina because of their family roots. Lionel Messi himself could have taken the opposite path and chosen Spain, as he recently revealed, but ultimately committed to Argentina.

Even though he surpassed LAFC legend Carlos Vela, Anders Dreyer has been unable to snub Lionel Messi from an unique MLS -contribution record.

Lionel Messi has already etched his name into the MLS record books in numerous ways, raising the bar for what the league’s fans have come to expect and standing as the only player in history to win back-to-back Player of the Season honors. One particularly unique goal-contribution record, however, remains his alone, even as Anders Dreyer surpasses LAFC legend Carlos Vela on the all-time list.

San Diego FC have burst out of the gates this season, sitting at the top of the league on goal difference after a crushing 5-0 win over CF Montréal and a 2-0 victory over St. Louis City. Dreyer was central to both performances, contributing two assists in the opener before adding a goal and an assist in the second.

Those contributions have elevated Dreyer to second on the all-time list for the fastest players to reach the combined milestone of 20 goals and 20 assists in MLS history. The San Diego forward hit the mark in just 36 games, a testament to the immediate and sustained impact he has made since arriving in the league in 2025.

Last season, Dreyer was the on-field engine of a San Diego side that not only reached the playoffs but topped the Western Conference and finished just four points shy of the Supporters’ Shield. The Danish star posted an exceptional 19 goals and 17 assists across 34 games in 2025, and has already added one goal and three assists in just two appearances this year.

Despite those remarkable numbers, the top spot on the list remains comfortably Messi’s. The Inter Miami star reached the 20-goal, 20-assist milestone in a staggering 26 games (six in 2023 and the following 20 in 2024) making him the fastest player ever to achieve the feat in MLS history.

Dreyer’s rise, however, has been enough to displace Carlos Vela from second place. The former LAFC standout reached the milestone in 41 games, five more than the Dane. The top five is rounded out by Italian star Sebastian Giovinco in 42 games and Kansas City Wizards legend Preki in 45, underscoring just how significant Dreyer’s achievement is — and how far ahead of the field Messi remains.

Dreyer, the leader of San Diego FC on the pitch

In under two years in North America, Anders Dreyer has established himself not only as the cornerstone of MLS’s newest franchise, but as one of the most dynamic players in the entire league.

San Diego secured Dreyer in January 2025 for a fee of around $5 million from Anderlecht, making him the club’s second Designated Player after Mexican international Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. While Lozano’s stint with the club seems to have reached a point of no return, Dreyer has more than filled the void, with his market value on Transfermarkt rising from €10 million to €15 million since his arrival.

Even though Ricardo Kaká announced his retirement in 2017, he has always remained closely attentive to AC Milan’s present. In a recent interview, the Brazilian star delivered a bold take Luka Modrić’s future, as the Croatian has not yet renewed his contract.

Ricardo Kaká established himself as one of the greatest players in AC Milan‘s storied history. During his time with the club, he led the team to a UEFA Champions League title and earned the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Although he announced his retirement from professional soccer in 2017, his passion for the Rossoneri endures. In that sense, the Brazilian offered a bold perspective on Luka Modric’s tenure in the Italian side, leaving a clear idea.

“It’s incredible: He still has the desire to play, calls his teammates to action, always fights, and brings energy and personality… Considering Luka’s importance to the team right now, I believe he could continue for two or three more years, but who knows: There is physical condition, and then there are the player’s decisions, his family’s needs, and the desire to return home,” Kaka said, via La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Despite arriving as a full-fledged veteran, Modrić has become one of AC Milan’s most important players. Having played 2,234 minutes, the veteran ranks as the team’s fourth-most used player. Serving as the midfield axis, the Croatian organizes the game and stands as the most influential figure on the roster, even at 40 years old. Moreover, he has become the ideal mentor for youngsters Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari.

Although Luka Modrić has established himself as a key figure for AC Milan, he is not entirely certain about renewing his contract. His current deal expires in June 2026 and includes a player option to extend it. However, the veteran intends to make this decision after the 2026 World Cup, as Dinamo Zagreb are also reportedly interested in signing him. Despite this, the Italian side continue working to convince the Croatian to extend his stay.

AC Milan could chase Modric’s renewal with two decisive promises

The Rossoneri have managed to establish themselves as one of the top teams in Serie A. Although draws have hurt their pursuit of the league lead, they have remained ahead of sides such as Napoli, AS Roma, Como, and Juventus. Looking to sustain their strong results, AC Milan are aiming to renew Luka Modrić’s contract, and they could rely on two key factors to convince him to extend his tenure.

After having won everything throughout his career, Luka Modrić’s decision may not depend on a strong financial offer. With this in mind, the Rossoneri could attempt to secure the Croatian’s continuity by guaranteeing a spot in the UEFA Champions League and reinforcing the roster with world-class players, especially in attack. While this would not guarantee his renewal, it would bring it much closer, as a truly competitive project could tempt him.

Bayern Munich are reportedly interested in signing a forward in the event Harry Kane leaves the club.

Since arriving in Germany in the summer of 2023, Harry Kane has shown he possesses the qualities needed to fill the void left by Robert Lewandowski’s departure and lead Bayern Munich through his goal-scoring ability. However, it remains unclear what the future holds for the England striker.

Kane’s performances have turned him into an attractive target for other European giants, even though he has publicly stated that his focus remains on Bayern for now. Still, a potential move elsewhere is not the only factor the German side are weighing.

“The Munich management is anticipating all eventualities regarding Harry Kane’s (32 years old) aging and is actively preparing for his eventual departure,” FootMercato stated this week. The report adds that, as a possible long-term solution, Bayern’s attention is beginning to turn toward Victor Osimhen.

The Nigerian striker holds one clear advantage over Kane: he is considerably younger (27 compared to the England forward’s 32). That offers greater long-term projection, while his current performances suggest he can deliver immediately.

Osimhen has recorded 17 goals and six assists in 25 appearances for Galatasaray this season across the UEFA Champions League and Turkey’s Super Lig. “These stratospheric performances have rekindled the interest of Bayern Munich, who are currently considering how to prepare for life after Harry Kane,” FootMercato added.

Kompany knows Osimhen well

Beyond his current form at Galatasaray, Victor Osimhen reached star status during his years with Napoli. Between 2020 and 2024, the Nigerian striker made 133 appearances for the Italian club, scoring 76 goals and winning the Serie A title in 2022-23.

Before his move to Italy, Osimhen impressed in the French and Belgian leagues. Because Vincent Kompany is Belgian, the Bayern Munich head coach followed Victor’s development closely during that period. “Kompany greatly admires the former Lille player, whose explosive start in Belgium with Charleroi he remembers fondly,” FootMercato reports.

In addition, a potential move to Bayern Munich would represent a second chance in the Bundesliga for Osimhen. He had his first professional experience there with Wolfsburg between 2016 and 2017. However, that stint did not unfold as planned: he made just 16 appearances over two seasons and failed to score a goal.

Former Barcelona player Arturo Vidal said he felt wronged playing against Real Madrid.

There have been many episodes in which Arturo Vidal has been at the center of controversy. He featured in El Clásico matches with Real Madrid for Barcelona, but he also faced Los Blancos during his time with Bayern Munich.

The Chilean played for the German club from 2015 to 2018, during which they were eliminated by Real Madrid twice in the Champions League. In the podcast “Show en el Fútbol” he was asked if he felt robbed every time they faced Real Madrid.

Vidal jokingly said: “Yes. They eliminated me two times. In the semifinal and in the quarterfinals with Bayern Munich. That’s why they invented VAR then. Because it was already too much.”

The background for those eliminations by Real Madrid

It is common for players to feel referees do not favor them when they lose, but the ties Vidal mentioned are widely remembered. The matches took place in the 2017-2018 semifinals and the quarterfinals the year before.

In the semifinals the tie opened with a Real Madrid 2-1 victory in Germany and finished with a 2-2 draw in Madrid, which sent the Spanish side to the final, where they went on to defeat Liverpool.

Particularly the 2016-2017 quarterfinals are remembered for Vidal’s controversial red card late in regulation and for two offside goals by Cristiano Ronaldo in extra time that sealed the series.

Vidal on Lionel Messi

Vidal spent three seasons at Barcelona while Lionel Messi was still at the club. During that time he saw the Argentine up close and experienced all his talent. Vidal said: “He’s an amazing player. He’s above everybody else. I was also surprised by Frank Ribery for his strength.”

Canada U20 face Nicaragua U20 for Matchday 5 of the 2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship group stage. Discover below how to watch this game in the USA, including start times and live streaming or TV options.

Match Overview

Nicaragua are hunting for redemption following a 2-0 shutout loss to Aruba, but their path to the knockout rounds runs directly through a high-octane Canada U20 squad fresh off a historic 14-0 blowout.

With the group stage at a boiling point and qualification on the line, both programs are desperate to close the opening round with a statement win, so make sure you don’t miss a single second of this high-stakes clash as these two sides battle for tournament survival.

Atletico Nacional are scheduled to meet Millonarios in the first stage of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. Supporters in the United States can watch the matchup live—here’s all the essential information on kickoff time and broadcast or streaming options.

Match Overview

It’s win-or-go-home time in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana as Colombian heavyweights Atletico Nacional and Millonarios collide in a high-stakes opening-round showdown with just one spot in the next phase on the line.

Nacional come in riding early-season momentum from domestic play, giving them a slight edge on paper, but Millonarios’ championship pedigree and experience in pressure-packed moments could quickly flip the script. With pride, history and continental survival at stake, expect a physical, intense battle from the opening whistle.

As Milan prepares to face Inter in another edition of the Derby della Madonnina, uncertainty clouds the build-up.

Christian Pulisic once decided this fixture with a single, instinctive touch inside the penalty area. Now, as Milan prepares to face Inter in another edition of the Derby della Madonnina, uncertainty clouds the build-up. The club enters the week knowing that the margin for error has disappeared. Inter sits top of the table, Milan chases from behind, and Sunday night’s showdown at San Siro could redefine the Scudetto battle. Yet while tactical debates rage, the real drama begins in the treatment room.

The build-up to the derby has been far from smooth. Davide Bartesaghi and Matteo Gabbia remain under medical supervision after recent muscle issues. Gabbia has already missed matches, while Bartesaghi picked up a problem that initially sparked fears of a longer absence.

Scans on the wing-back revealed no serious injury, raising hopes of a swift return. However, according to SportMediaset, Bartesaghi trained separately at Milanello despite the positive diagnosis. His status as a potential starter now hangs in the balance.

Gabbia’s situation appears even clearer: the central defender also worked alone, suggesting that Koni De Winter is increasingly likely to retain his place in the back three. For a club preparing for one of its biggest matches of the season, enforced stability at the back may prove both a necessity and a gamble.

The Pulisic problem emerges

If the defensive concerns were not enough, attention has shifted sharply toward Milan’s No. 11. As reported by Calciomercato and Corriere della Sera, Pulisic has been struggling with knee bursitis, an issue that has slowed him down in recent weeks. The inflammation has forced him to ration his efforts, and the impact on his performances has been visible.

The American has not scored or provided an assist in 2026. His missed opportunities against Parma and Cremonese have amplified scrutiny, especially considering his decisive contribution in the previous derby on November 23, when he tucked in a rebound from Alexis Saelemaekers’ shot to secure victory.

Since that moment, the league’s balance has shifted dramatically. Inter has recorded 14 wins and one draw in 15 matches, opening a 10-point advantage at the summit. The Rossoneri’s hopes of keeping the Scudetto race alive may hinge on this very fixture.

Will Pulisic play against Inter?

With not many days remaining before kickoff, doubts about Pulisic’s starting role have intensified. The forward has not started two consecutive matches since early January and has been carefully managed due to his knee condition.

Calciomercatonotes that Massimiliano Allegri is considering changes to an attack that has struggled for productivity and efficiency in recent outings against Como, Parma, and Cremonese. Rafael Leao is certain to start, but the second attacking berth is under debate.

There is little doubt that Pulisic will push to be available. His competitive nature and history in this fixture make that almost certain. Yet the medical staff’s caution suggests that risking him from the outset may not be straightforward. Nkunku may now have the edge to start, with Pulisic potentially deployed as an impact substitute should his knee fail to respond fully in training.

As the report underlines, the decision may come down to balancing immediate necessity with long-term risk. Deploying the American winger from the bench, when defensive lines tire and spaces open, could maximize his impact without overburdening his knee.

Now, as the Brazil national team prepares for another World Cup journey, the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner has spoken glowingly about his old coach.

Carlo Ancelotti and Kaka share a bond forged in the red and black of Milan and strengthened under the bright lights of Real Madrid. Now, as the Brazil national team prepares for another World Cup journey, the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner has spoken glowingly about his old coach.  

Ancelotti is preparing to lead the Brazil national team into his first-ever World Cup as a head coach. The Italian tactician took charge last May following his departure from Real Madrid, guiding the Selecao through the final stretch of their qualifying campaign.

No national team boasts more World Cup titles than Brazil, with five triumphs, the most recent arriving in 2002 in Japan and South Korea. Yet since lifting that trophy, the Selecao have endured a prolonged wait for another global crown. They have advanced beyond the quarter-finals only once in that period, finishing fourth on home soil in 2014.

The weight of expectation remains immense. According to Opta’s supercomputer, Brazil has been given a 5.6% chance of winning a record-extending sixth World Cup title in the 2026 tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The numbers suggest caution, but history demands belief.

What did Kaka say about Ancelotti?

It is in that context that Kaka’s endorsement becomes significant. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, he made clear his confidence in Ancelotti’s leadership: “Ancelotti is the right person at this moment for Brazil, which, given its history, is always considered amongst the favorites. Maybe not in the top three, but it’s a good team, and Carlo is Carlo.”

The remark encapsulates both realism and reverence. Kaka acknowledges that Brazil may not currently stand above every rival on paper, yet he insists that the combination of tradition and Ancelotti’s steady presence elevates the national team into the contender category.

For Kaka, this belief is shaped by personal experience. He flourished under Ancelotti at Milan, winning major honors, and later experienced the intensity of World Cup tournaments firsthand. “I’m confident, I’ve been lucky enough to play at three World Cups, and I know how exciting it can be. Having a good tournament after so many disappointments would be great for the country.”

Those words reflect not just optimism but an understanding of the emotional stakes. Brazil is a singular football nation, where the World Cup defines generations.

The bold prediction revealed

In the middle of his reflections, Kaka made his position clear: Brazil will be among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup under Ancelotti’s guidance, even if they are not universally ranked in the top three pre-tournament picks.

It is a bold stance considering the recent record. Twenty-four years have passed since the last triumph. The Selecao have repeatedly fallen short in knockout rounds. Pressure, scrutiny, and expectation will follow them into North America once again.

Yet the 42-year-old midfield maestro’s faith rests heavily on the experienced tactician’s temperament. The Italian’s calm authority, tactical flexibility, and experience managing elite dressing rooms at Milan and Real Madrid are seen as crucial assets. Brazil is not merely seeking talent; it is seeking composure in decisive moments.

Throughout the current season, Bruno Fernandes’ continuity at Manchester United has been called into question due to the team’s instability. However, the Red Devils have reportedly submitted a formal renewal offer, though the Portuguese has set a clear condition.

Bruno Fernandes has managed to remain Manchester United’s best player, shining both creatively and in front of goal. However, the team’s unstable situation supposedly led him to consider a departure. As the club’s standout performer in recent years, the Red Devils do not seem willing to let him leave. Instead, they have reportedly submitted a formal contract renewal offer to the Portuguese, who has set a clear condition.

According to The Mirror, Manchester United have decided to aggressively pursue Bruno Fernandes’ contract renewal, as his current deal runs until 2027. Seeking to compete with offers from the Saudi Pro League, they have presented a proposal worth £400,000 per week, which would make him one of the highest-paid players in the league. Although he has made his intention to remain in the team, he has imposed a firm condition.

Bruno Fernandes has opened the door to continuing at Manchester United, but he has tied that possible renewal to one requirement: The Red Devils must secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League, as money is no longer his priority. While this seemed impossible at the beginning of the season, they remain unbeaten since the arrival of Michael Carrick and currently sit third in the standings.

Although the Portuguese is already 31 years old, he has managed to remain a key piece for the Red Devils. In the current season, he has made 27 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing 14 assists. Moreover, he continues to be a central figure in the team’s tactical structure, bringing balance and also making a difference at a creative level. For that reason, his renewal is a priority for Manchester United as part of their rebuilding process.

Michael Carrick’s influence could be key to Bruno’s renewal

Following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, Bruno Fernandes was reportedly deeply disappointed, as he was experiencing yet another failure since his arrival at Manchester United. He even revealed that the Red Devils had attempted to transfer him, straining the relationship between both parties. However, Michael Carrick’s arrival appears to have changed the team’s reality, bringing the Portuguese closer to a contract renewal.

With Carrick’s arrival at the Red Devils, they have climbed to third place in the Premier League, currently sitting in a Champions League qualification spot. As a result, the Englishman appears to be emerging as the leading candidate to remain as the team’s head coach. With his continuity, Bruno’s renewal could move closer, as he has already seen that the team functioned, won, and dominated with him playing a key role in the lineup.

The United States face Canada on Matchday 2 of the 2026 SheBelieves Cup. Supporters across the country can watch every minute of the matchup, with kickoff times and full broadcast information listed here for both TV and streaming options.

Match Overview

First place in the 2026 SheBelieves Cup will be on the line in Matchday 2 as the tournament’s only unbeaten teams square off in a matchup that could shape the title race. The United States, playing on home soil and widely viewed as the frontrunner to win it all, aims to build on its opening victory.

On the other hand, Canada enters brimming with confidence after a commanding 4-1 win over Colombia that signaled its intent to contend. With early momentum and bragging rights at stake, this showdown has all the makings of a defining moment—don’t miss it.

With three months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Carlo Ancelotti has set high expectations for Brazil.

As is the case in every World Cup, Brazil are once again listed among the favorites to lift the trophy. Their storied history supports that status, as does the quality of their current squad. The 2026 edition is no exception, and head coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team will live up to the challenge.

“It’s a joy to have time to prepare for this important event for Brazil,” Ancelotti began in a recent interview shared by Marca. “It’s a great motivation and, at the same time, a great responsibility to do as well as possible.”

The Italian coach quickly made clear his confidence in the level Brazil will reach this summer at the FIFA tournament in North America. “I am sure we are going to have a World Cup of a very high level,” Carlo said.

Expectations around Brazil are always sky-high, considering they are the only national team to have played in every World Cup in history and the most successful nation ever, with five titles.

For that reason, when Ancelotti promises a “high-level” performance, he understands the margin for error is virtually nonexistent. In their last three appearances, Brazil reached one semifinal and two quarterfinals, yet the overall assessment after those eliminations was still viewed as failure. This year, Brazil will need to go even further to avoid similar criticism.

Brazil are close to matching their worst title drought

As the most successful national team in world soccer history, Brazil are currently in the midst of an unusually long dry spell. Their last World Cup title came 24 years ago, when a star-studded squad featuring Ronaldo Nazario, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho lifted the trophy at Korea-Japan 2002.

Since the creation of the FIFA tournament, only once have Brazil gone longer without winning the title. That stretch came between the first tournament — played in Uruguay in 1930 — and their first championship, claimed in Sweden 1958. Those 28 years, however, require important context: two World Cups, scheduled for 1942 and 1946, were canceled due to World War II.

Following the 1958 triumph came additional titles in 1962 and 1970, cementing Brazil as the dominant national team in the sport. However, another lengthy drought followed, one that did not end until United States 1994. Now, the Selecao have equaled that 24-year drought, and if they fail to win the title this summer, they will reach the longest championship drought in their history.

Rodrygo's serious ACL injury has reportedly opened the door for Neymar to make his return to the Brazil national team under head coach Carlo Ancelotti for the March international window.

Neymar has once again become the center of debate in Brazil, with fans divided over whether he will earn a place in the 2026 World Cup squad with fewer than 100 days until the tournament begins. Now, with Rodrygo suffering a serious injury, reports suggest that Carlo Ancelotti is strongly considering recalling Neymar to the Seleção for the March international window.

On Tuesday, Brazil were dealt a significant blow when Real Madrid confirmed that Rodrygo had suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus in his right knee. The severity of the injury means the forward will miss almost the entirety of 2026 — and, barring a miraculous recovery, the World Cup itself.

With one of his regular starters now sidelined, UOL Esporte reports that Ancelotti is giving serious thought to calling up Neymar for the upcoming March fixtures. ESPN Brasil had previously indicated that the Santos forward was not in the Italian’s plans for the games against France on March 26 and Croatia on March 31, but Rodrygo‘s injury has reportedly prompted a rethink.

Beyond Rodrygo, another potential absence could further strengthen the case for Neymar’s recall. Estevao, the top scorer of the Ancelotti era with five goals, has already missed Chelsea’s last three Premier League matches with a hamstring injury, and if he is unable to return to fitness in time, it would open the door even wider for Neymar to force his way back into the picture.

Ancelotti and fitness as the key factor

From the moment Ancelotti took charge of Brazil, he made his stance on fitness abundantly clear. “We have very good players, but I need to choose those who are at 100%. And it’s not just about Neymar—it’s the same with Vinícius. If Vinícius is at 90%, I will call another player who is at 100%, because this team has a very, very high level of competition, especially in attack, where we have many very good players.” he said in an interview with Esporte Record back in December.

That philosophy has defined his eight games in charge of the Canarinha, and it has been the primary reason for his reluctance to bring Neymar back into the fold. With Rodrygo now ruled out and Estevao’s availability in serious doubt, however, the conditions for the former Barcelona man’s long-awaited return have never looked more favorable.

Neymar running against the clock for the March games

On the fitness front, Neymar has made encouraging progress since returning from arthroscopic surgery to address a meniscus issue, featuring in Santos’ last three matches and completing the full 90 minutes in each of the past two. Even so, the window to impress Ancelotti ahead of the squad announcement is an extremely narrow one.

Ancelotti is set to name his Brazil squad for the March window on the 16th — just 12 days away. Santos’ elimination from the Campeonato Paulista in the Round of 16 has significantly reduced Neymar’s remaining opportunities to make a case, leaving clashes against Mirassol on the 10th and Corinthians on the 15th as the only two matches available to him before the Italian coach finalizes his roster.

Real Madrid still can't see Jude Bellingham on the field, so they are trying the approach they had with Kylian Mbappé.

Injuries have been with Real Madrid in the most important part of the year. This happened to Kylian Mbappé as the Frenchman continues missing matches, while Jude Bellingham is also out.

Mbappé had a knee injury that bothered him for several matches until the club chose to take a cautious approach by sitting him out for the Benfica rematch in the Champions League. Even if the English midfielder is dealing with a muscle injury, the plan may be similar for them.

Real Madrid has decided to take Bellingham to get a second opinion on his hamstring injury. The player currently is in England with Doctor Nico Mihic, following the same step Mbappé previously took of seeking an external medical evaluation, according to Marca. The idea remains looking for ways to see him come back earlier than planned.

More about Real Madrid injuries

The list of injuries gets longer every time Real Madrid plays. With Rodrygo out for the rest of the year with a torn ACL in the La Liga match against Getafe, the attacking options for manager Álvaro Arbeloa are very reduced.

Bellingham has been out since February 1 after leaving the field in victory over Rayo Vallecano. His time to recover was expected to be around five to six weeks, so it is not a good sign that he still does not seem close to returning.

Mbappé has been working with traumatologist Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet and the club’s trainers in Paris with a return date to the capital on Friday as reported by the Madrid outlet. His presence in the Champions League match with Manchester City on Wednesday remains unlikely for them.

Raúl Asencio nears his return

Real Madrid’s victory to Benfica in the Champions League playoff left a problem for the defense. Raúl Asencio had to leave with a head injury after a severe hit. Fortunately for the manager’s lineup plans, he was partially part of Wednesday’s training session after missing one match.

A Greek court handed the Manchester United defender a 15-month suspended prison sentence following a retrial related to an altercation on the island of Mykonos in August 2020.

When it comes to Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, the spotlight is more often on his performances. Instead, this week, attention has shifted back to a long-running legal saga in Greece, reviving questions about his 15-month suspended sentence. The incident, which traces back to a chaotic night in 2020, has lingered through appeals, retrials, and prolonged legal proceedings.

A Greek court handed the Manchester United defender a 15-month suspended prison sentence following a retrial related to an altercation on the island of Mykonos in August 2020. The hearing took place in Syros, with Maguire not required to attend in person.

The charges stemmed from an incident outside a bar during a family holiday. At retrial, the English defender faced allegations of non-serious assault, resisting arrest, and attempted bribery. He was convicted on all three counts.

This ruling reduced his original 2020 sentence of 21 months and 10 days suspended, which had been automatically nullified after he appealed under Greek law. That appeal triggered a full retrial, one that endured multiple postponements before finally concluding in March 2026.

Throughout the process, Maguire has firmly denied wrongdoing. According to Sky Sports, his legal team plans to escalate the matter further. “His legal team will appeal to the Greek Supreme Court against the guilty verdict,” the report said.

What a suspended sentence actually means

The phrase “15-month prison sentence” naturally raises alarm. But in practice, a suspended sentence operates differently from immediate incarceration. In simple terms, Maguire will not serve prison time now, Sky Sports has explained. A suspended sentence means the prison term is imposed but not activated, provided the individual complies with the law and does not commit another offence during the suspension period.

There is no jail time and no fine attached to this retrial verdict. However, it is crucial to understand what it means. The conviction stands unless overturned on appeal. The suspended term effectively hangs over him as a legal warning. If he were to breach Greek law within the applicable period, the sentence could theoretically be activated. Thus, a suspended sentence is not the same as being cleared. It remains a conviction on record in Greece unless successfully challenged.

What does it mean for Manchester United and England?

From a soccer perspective, the immediate impact appears limited. Manchester United has maintained support for the defender throughout the proceedings. The club continues to select him for matches, and he remains in contention for Premier League fixtures, including the clash against Newcastle.

Historically, former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate temporarily omitted Maguire from the national squad following the original conviction. However, he later regained his place before falling out of selection after 2024 for sporting reasons rather than legal restrictions.

Sports law experts generally agree that suspended sentences rarely affect professional contracts, especially when appeals are ongoing. Travel and visa implications can vary by jurisdiction, but there has been no indication of restrictions affecting his playing career at present.

What’s more, the legal story is far from over. Maguire’s team intends to take the case to Greece’s Supreme Court, arguing procedural flaws and contesting the verdict. If the appeal succeeds, the conviction could be overturned entirely. If not, the suspended sentence remains in effect until it expires under Greek legal timelines.

A statistical analysis of leagues around the world over the past year places Lionel Messi at the top, ahead of stars such as Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe.

No one is surprised anymore that Lionel Messi, who is set to turn 39, remains one of the most influential players in the world. However, the fact that the numbers place him ahead of elite stars like Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane only further underscores his remarkable impact.

The CIES Football Observatory published a study on Wednesday examining the most influential players across the 67 strongest leagues in the world over the past 365 days, based on goals and assists. Lionel Messi finished in first place, opening up a significant gap over his closest challengers.

Messi recorded 59 goal contributions with Inter Miami over the last year, totaling 37 goals and 22 assists. That figure puts him well clear of the next closest player in the ranking, Harry Kane, who posted 42 contributions (35 goals and 7 assists) with Bayern Munich.

Further down the list is another MLS player, Anders Dreyer, who registered 22 goals and 19 assists with San Diego FC over the past 365 days. His 41 goal contributions were matched by Kylian Mbappe, who scored 37 goals and added four assists with Real Madrid.

Age is no limit for Messi

Lionel Messi’s achievement in leading this list becomes even more impressive when considering the age comparison with his main competitors. The Argentine forward is the oldest player in the top ten, less than four months away from his 39th birthday.

The players closest to him in the ranking are significantly younger: Harry Kane is 32, while Anders Dreyer and Kylian Mbappe are 27. In fact, to find a player older than Messi on the list, one must drop to 15th place, where Cristiano Ronaldo appears. At 41, he has recorded 31 goal contributions with Al Nassr over the past 365 days.

The other ranking Messi leads

The same CIES Football Observatory study also includes a different ranking system. Unlike the first list, which simply totals goals and assists, this alternative ranking factors in the relative difficulty of each league when evaluating statistical output.

To calculate that, a coefficient is created based on various criteria, such as clubs’ performances in continental and global competitions. That coefficient is then applied to goals and assists data, offering a more contextualized view of individual performance.

Even under that more complex formula, Messi remains the clear leader. With a coefficient score of 66.3, he ranks ahead of Kylian Mbappe (65.4) and Harry Kane (64.5). What makes that even more impressive is that while La Liga and the Bundesliga rank among the top leagues used to calculate the coefficient, MLS does not even crack the top ten. And yet, Messi still claims the top spot.

With Real Madrid links still growing, Jurgen Klopp’s future as Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull is reportedly being put in doubt to poor results.

Jurgen Klopp stunned the soccer world when he stepped away from the dugout to become Global Head of Soccer at the Red Bull group, despite his standing as one of the most influential coaches of his generation. Now, however, his future within the organization is reportedly in serious question, a product of underwhelming results across the group’s clubs, and persistent links to Real Madrid.

Announced on January 1, 2025 as Red Bull‘s Global Head of Soccer, Klopp was tasked with overseeing the soccer operations of a portfolio spanning six countries: RB Leipzig in Germany, Red Bull Bragantino in Brazil, the New York Red Bulls in the United States, RB Omiya Ardija in Japan, Leeds United in England and Paris FC in France, a role he was contracted to fill through December 2029.

When speculation over his future surfaced, Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff moved swiftly to shut it down. “That is complete nonsense and entirely made up. On the contrary, we are extremely satisfied with the work Jurgen Klopp is doing. He invests a great deal of time and effort, is in constant communication with our coaches and sporting directors, and continues to develop our Red Bull soccer philosophy in a sustainable way. We are convinced that he is the right man for this job. That is where we are putting all our focus and energy,” he said to Sky Germany.

Results are far from accompanying Klopp

Despite the public vote of confidence, results across the group’s flagship clubs have fallen well short of expectations since Klopp took the role. At RB Leipzig, the team sits fifth in the Bundesliga, well outside the title race and without European football to show for it, and his decision to appoint Ole Werner as head coach last summer continues to draw scrutiny.

At RB Salzburg, meanwhile, the situation has been equally disappointing. The Austrian side were eliminated in the Europa League group stage, a result that cost Thomas Letsch his job and led to the appointment of Daniel Beichler as his replacement, a chain of events that has placed Klopp squarely in the crosshairs of those questioning the direction of the project.

Against that backdrop, L’Équipe reports that Klopp’s tenure as Red Bull’s Global Head of Soccer could come to an end in the summer of 2026. The French outlet names Oliver Glasner, who has already announced he will be departing Crystal Palace at the end of the current season, as the leading candidate to succeed him in the role.

Real Madrid links still looming

From the moment Xabi Alonso was dismissed as Real Madrid head coach, Klopp’s name was among the first to emerge as a potential replacement. Despite his commitment to the Red Bull project, German journalist Florian Plettenberg reported in January that Klopp “is seriously considering a return as head coach should Real Madrid make a concrete move for the summer.”

The circumstances at the Bernabéu have done little to dampen that speculation. Interim coach Álvaro Arbeloa has struggled to convince, posting a record of eight wins and four defeats in 12 games (33 percent loss rate) while also suffering back-to-back La Liga defeats against Osasuna and Getafe and a Copa del Rey elimination at the hands of second-division side Albacete. With pressure mounting on Real Madrid’s hierarchy to make a statement appointment, Klopp’s name looks set to remain firmly in the conversation heading into the summer.

Despite his importance in recent years, Rodrygo is not enjoying his best season, even losing his starting role at Real Madrid. Alongside this, he suffered a season-ending ACL injury, which reportedly has its roots in a physical issue dating back to 2023.

Rodrygo Goes has managed to become one of Real Madrid’s most important players, playing a key role in several of the club’s titles. However, he is not enjoying his best season, having lost his starting spot and logging just 1,106 minutes. Amid rumors about a potential departure, the Brazilian suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Despite this, his latest setback reportedly has its roots in a physical issue he has been carrying since 2023.

According to Mario Cortegana in The Athletic, Rodrygo Goes continued playing with a partial anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered while representing Brazil in 2023. At the time, Real Madrid decided that the Brazilian would not undergo surgery and instead follow a conservative treatment plan. In light of this, experts state that while the decision was appropriate, the risk of a relapse was higher — something that ultimately occurred.

With a torn anterior cruciate ligament and a torn lateral meniscus, Rodrygo faces a recovery timeline ranging from six to nine months, meaning he will miss most of the 2026–27 season. In light of this, Real Madrid’s alleged decision not to operate on the Brazilian in 2023 is facing strong criticism, as it has not only impacted his performances in the following seasons but also significantly harmed the player.

Far from Rodrygo’s ACL injury being an isolated incident, several Real Madrid players have suffered this same setback in recent years: Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão (twice), and the Brazilian star himself. With this in mind, Los Blancos face serious questions from supporters, who are casting doubt on whether the club’s medical staff truly prioritize the health of their stars or the needs of the roster.

Mbappe, Bellingham act on injuries amid Real Madrid medical concerns

Unlike previous seasons, Real Madrid have struggled to find consistency among their players, stringing together a series of serious injuries. In fact, coach Álvaro Arbeloa currently has seven players sidelined, raising questions about Los Blancos’ medical services. Adding to the speculation, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have made a surprising decision regarding how to treat their injuries.

According to Manuel Bruña in Mundo Deportivo, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have decided to seek second opinions regarding their injuries. While the Frenchman is undergoing treatment in Paris, the Englishman is doing so in London. However, both players are being accompanied by the club’s medical staff. Despite this, Los Blancos maintain that the decision to consult outside specialists was made by the club, not the players.

Brighton face Arsenal in a Matchday 29 game during the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below is all the essential information, including kickoff times and details on how to watch the action on TV or through streaming platforms.

Match Overview

With the Premier League title race heating up, Arsenal step into this matchup knowing the stakes couldn’t be higher. Sitting five points clear of Manchester City but with an extra game already in the books, the North London side can’t afford any slip-ups as the calendar winds down.

Standing in their way is a tricky Brighton squad hovering between a late European push and looking over its shoulder in the standings — a team talented enough to rattle the leaders on any given day. With the pressure mounting and the margin for error razor-thin, this showdown could have major implications at the top — don’t miss it.

Inter Miami will debut its new stadium this year, and it will do so with a name resulting from a commercial agreement.

This year, Inter Miami face the challenge of building on their 2025 performance, a season in which they were crowned Major League Soccer champions for the first time. To that end, they aim to repeat their domestic success while adding a similar run on the continental stage. But beyond the sporting challenges, the club also has its sights set on the inauguration of its new home.

Miami Freedom Park is in the final stages of construction, and the team is expected to begin playing its matches there by early April. In fact, the 2026 MLS schedule was specifically designed so that the Herons play their first five matches of the season on the road, providing enough time to finalize the project.

In this context, Inter Miami announced Wednesday that their new stadium will feature a name born from a commercial partnership. In a video posted on social media, Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, Luis Suarez, and Noah Allen are seen walking through the tunnels leading to the pitch, accompanied by the message: “The Nu era starts now.”

Nu is a Brazilian company that offers digital financial services platforms. “As a cornerstone of the agreement, Inter Miami CF’s new state-of-the-art home stadium at Miami Freedom Park will officially be named Nu Stadium,” explains the statement published on the company’s official website.

This is our commitment to build a new standard. For the club, our fans and the future of the game. Vamos 💗 pic.twitter.com/eKF8IUkFih

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) March 4, 2026

“Designed for year-round enjoyment, the 26,700-seat stadium will serve as the home of Inter Miami CF while also hosting concerts of various sizes, corporate and private events, and a wide range of additional sporting events including friendly and competitive matches,” the message adds.

David Beckham and Jorge Mas speak on the new stadium

In the same statement announcing the commercial deal, reflections from two of Inter Miami’s owners were also shared. “Miami has always been a place where people come with big dreams and from the very beginning, we wanted this Club to reflect that spirit,” said David Beckham. “Opening our new stadium is a really special moment on our journey – a place for fans across South Florida and for people from around the world who feel connected to our Club to watch us play.”

Jorge Mas also expressed excitement about what the opening of the new stadium will mean for the Herons. “Inter Miami was built to set new standards and redefine what’s possible in football. That’s why we pursue greatness on the pitch by signing the best players in the world, and just as importantly, we hold ourselves to that same standard when choosing the partners who help bring our vision to life,” said the club’s co-owner.

“Together, we are proud to welcome our fans to Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park very soon, a special place they can call home where they can feel connected, inspired, and part of something truly extraordinary,” Mas added.

How many matches will Inter Miami play before moving to the new stadium?

The estimated date for the official inauguration of Nu Stadium is Saturday, April 4, when Inter Miami face Austin FC in MLS action. However, before then, they must play several more matches across two different competitions.

In league play, they will face DC United, Charlotte FC, and New York City FC; all of those matchups will be on the road. Additionally, in the Concacaf Champions Cup, they must navigate the Round of 16 series against Nashville SC. They will play the first leg at Geodis Park before the decisive return leg in Miami. That match, scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, will be the last one the Herons play at Chase Stadium.

Newcastle clash with Manchester United in a Matchday 29 battle during the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign. Below is all the essential information, including kickoff times and details on how to watch the action on TV or through streaming platforms.

Match Overview

Fresh off a statement comeback, Manchester United strengthened their push for a coveted UEFA Champions League berth with a gritty 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. After conceding first, the Red Devils responded with urgency and resilience, flipping the script to secure three massive points that keep them firmly in the qualification race.

Sitting third in their group, United understand there’s little margin for error down the stretch. Their next test comes against Newcastle, who are aiming to rebound after a 3-2 setback against Everton, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with major implications at both ends of the table.

Although Barcelona displayed their scoring power against Atlético Madrid, they were eliminated from the Copa del Rey after losing on aggregate. Additionally, Lamine Yamal received terrible news, as the Blaugrana announced the extent of the injuries to Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé.

Barcelona imposed their high offensive tempo against Atlético Madrid, securing a 3-0 victory thanks to an outstanding performance by Marc Bernal. Despite this, they failed to level the aggregate score and were eliminated from the Copa del Rey. In addition, Lamine Yamal faced disappointing news as he lost two key teammates. The Blaugrana announced that Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé sustained injuries, ruling them out for several weeks.

After the match against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona announced that Alejandro Balde suffered an injury to the distal biceps femoris of his left thigh. Because of this, he will have to be out for about four weeks. Moreover, Jules Koundé was also diagnosed with an injury to the mid-third of the biceps femoris of his left thigh. While they did not provide an estimated recovery time for the Frenchman, Diario Sport states that he will be out for around four weeks.

With this absences, coach Hansi Flick now has five players sidelined for an extended period, as Gavi, Andreas Christensen and Frenkie de Jong are also set to remain out until early April. In light of this, the Blaugrana will be forced to rely on youngsters such as Jofre Torrents, Marc Bernal and Marc Casadó. Moreover, João Cancelo may hold a key role as he stood out against Los Colchoneros.

Even though these absences are certainly significant, Barcelona may not have too many problems staying competitive. Throughout the season, Flick has managed to show that his deep roster can help them at any moment, which is why they remain favorites to win La Liga and to advance to the Champions League quarterfinals. In addition, the level shown by Marc Bernal and João Cancelo could prove decisive in the upcoming matches.

Robert Lewandowski could soon return to Barcelona’s roster

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Barcelona have managed to establish as one of the best offensive teams, maintaining a wide variety of scorers. Ferran Torres may have emerged as a major contributor, but his lack of effectiveness at key moments weighed heavily against Atlético Madrid. However, coach Hansi Flick could soon receive some good news amid injuries to Kounde and Balde, as Robert Lewandowski is reportedly set to return earlier than expected.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Lewandowski will be available for the match against Athletic Bilbao, as he will wear a mask following his fracture to his left eye socket. With this, the Polish striker would have one game to adapt, arriving in full shape to face Newcastle United, where he could be decisive either as a starter or coming off the bench. His early return is a definitive boost for Lamine Yamal, who regains an experienced presence in the goal-scoring side.

Ronaldo’s recent hamstring injury has forced the club into a reshuffle at a crucial stage of the season, placing immediate pressure on Al-Hamdan to step into the spotlight.

Abdullah Al-Hamdan will carry the heavy burden of replacing the injured Cristiano Ronaldo when Al-Nassr faces NEOM SC in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo’s recent hamstring injury has forced the club into a reshuffle at a crucial stage of the season, placing immediate pressure on Al-Hamdan to step into the spotlight.

With the Portuguese superstar sidelined and undergoing rehabilitation, Al-Nassr must once again adapt without its talisman. However, how the club has actually fared in his absence during the 2025-26 campaign adds an intriguing layer to the story. The setback occurred during a 3-1 league victory over Al-Fayha last Saturday, February 28. Ronaldo endured an uncharacteristically difficult night, missing a 12th-minute penalty before signaling discomfort late in the match.

He was substituted in the 81st minute, and days later, the diagnosis was confirmed. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after the last game against Al Fayha. He started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day,” the club announced on Tuesday.

Reports suggest the 41-year-old could be sidelined for two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the hamstring strain. While his participation in the 2026 World Cup is not believed to be under threat, his short-term absence creates immediate tactical challenges for Al-Nassr.

Head coach Jorge Jesus has reportedly decided that Abdullah Al-Hamdan will start against NEOM, as noted by Arriyadiyah newspaper journalist Khaled Al-Rashid. The Saudi forward now shoulders the responsibility of filling Ronaldo’s role at the spearhead of the attack.

Team tested without its captain

Whenever Ronaldo has been unavailable this season, either due to rotation or injury, attention has shifted to how Al-Nassr responds. The numbers from both domestic and continental competition reveal a compelling pattern.

Saudi Pro League record without Ronaldo

In league fixtures where Ronaldo was not in the squad, Al-Nassr has delivered emphatically:

• Al-Nassr 2-0 Al Ahli – Win
• Al-Nassr 2-0 Al Riyadh – Win
• Al-Nassr 4-1 Al Ittihad – Win
• Al-Nassr 4-0 Al Khaleej – Win

League record without Ronaldo:

• Played: 4
• Wins: 4
• Draws: 0
• Losses: 0
• Win percentage: 100%

Interestingly, when Ronaldo has featured in league matches this season, Al-Nassr’s win rate stands at 66.7% (10 wins from 15 games). While the sample size without him is smaller, the club has not dropped a single point during those absences.

AFC Champions League Two record without Ronaldo

The same trend appears in the AFC Champions League Two. In matches where Ronaldo did not feature, Al-Nassr maintained dominance:

• Al-Nassr 4-0 FC Goa – Win
• Al-Nassr 2-1 FC Goa – Win
• Al-Nassr 4-0 Istiklol – Win
• Al-Nassr 2-0 Al Ahli – Win

ACL Two record without Ronaldo:

• Played: 4
• Wins: 4
• Draws: 0
• Losses: 0
• Win percentage: 100%

Even when he has played in Asia, the club has remained flawless, winning all three of his appearances in the competition.

Overall combined record in 2025-26 season so far

Without Ronaldo (All competitions):

• Played: 8
• Wins: 8
• Draws: 0
• Losses: 0
• Win rate: 100%

With Ronaldo (All competitions):

• Played: 18
• Wins: 13
• Draws: 2
• Losses: 3
• Win rate: 72.2%

What the numbers really mean

Statistically, Al-Nassr has shown it can win without its captain. The squad has demonstrated improved depth, tactical flexibility, and shared scoring responsibility. Defensive solidity and collective attacking output have allowed the club to collect maximum points even in Ronaldo’s absence.

However, context matters. Many of the matches without Ronaldo came against beatable opposition. In high-pressure fixtures or tightly contested encounters, his presence often alters defensive structures, boosts confidence, and influences momentum.

The broader takeaway from the 2025-26 campaign is clear: Al-Nassr is no longer structurally dependent on Ronaldo to win matches. The team’s system functions efficiently without him. Yet his aura, leadership, and goal-scoring instinct elevate the ceiling of what the club can achieve.

After dealing with knee problems for several months, Kylian Mbappé has been diagnosed with a sprained left knee. However, Real Madrid star’s injury is reportedly more serious than initially expected, meaning he could face a longer recovery timeline.

Kylian Mbappé has managed to establish himself as one of Real Madrid’s best players, currently standing as the team’s top scorer. However, he was diagnosed with a sprained left knee, ruling him out for several matches. After deciding to undergo treatment in France, he was reportedly diagnosed with a more severe injury. As a result, Mbappe could now face a longer recovery timeline than initially expected.

According to Antón Meana on El Larguero, Kylian Mbappé’s injury is more complex than initially expected, as his left posterior cruciate ligament is reportedly at its limit. With this in mind, the French forward would need to use the remaining 100 days before the 2026 World Cup to recover fully, which would rule him out for the rest of the season. Despite this, Real Madrid do not share the same view being reported from the player’s inner circle.

While Mbappé’s close camp is allegedly emphasizing the seriousness of the injury, Los Blancos are said to be far more optimistic. In fact, they reportedly believe the player could return in time for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 against Manchester City. However, the Frenchman’s entourage denies this information, making it clear that he would not take any risk of suffering a relapse.

In case Kylian’s absence for the rest of the season is confirmed, Real Madrid would suffer a real blow to their season’s objectives. To face the Citizens, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be without Eder Militao, Rodrygo Goes, following his season-ending ACL injury, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, and possibly the Frenchman. On top of this, Los Blancos are not at their best, having been defeated by Getafe and raising doubts about their competitiveness.

Mbappe reported injury extent explained by sports therapist

Kylian Mbappé has been suffering from knee problems since mid-December 2025, causing him to miss two games. Although he managed to maintain his scoring pace, the Frenchman had to stop playing after being diagnosed with a sprained left knee by Real Madrid. However, he is reportedly suffering from a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament. In light of this, a physiotherapist specializing in sports injuries explains the extent of this supposed injury.

As explained by expert Ángel Villanueva via X (formerly Twitter), the posterior cruciate ligament is the main restraint that prevents the tibia from moving backward in relation to the femur. If it is partially torn, it loses its ability to stabilize the joint. As a result, the knee may feel unstable when braking or turning, fail during explosive actions, and lose efficiency in accelerations. He also outlined a recovery timeline of between 16 and 24 weeks.

Despite this, Real Madrid have not issued a new medical report on Kylian Mbappé’s injury status. As it stands, the Frenchman has only been diagnosed by the club with a sprained left knee, leaving reports of a more serious injury to information published by journalists. With that in mind, the 27-year-old striker’s recovery timeline remains within the parameters initially set by the club, pending any new medical update should it become necessary.

As Cristinao Ronaldo's likely return timeline emerges as Al-Nassr captain’s World Cup hopes remain intact, the early signs point toward caution rather than catastrophe.

Cristiano Ronaldo had just helped Al-Nassr secure a 3-1 league victory, yet the image of him with ice strapped to his right leg quickly overshadowed the result. Now, as his likely return timeline emerges as Al-Nassr captain’s World Cup hopes remain intact, the early signs point toward caution rather than catastrophe.

For a 41-year-old icon preparing for what could be a historic sixth World Cup appearance, every muscle strain is magnified. But inside the club, the message is calm: manage the recovery, avoid risks, and keep one eye firmly on June.

The injury occurred during Al-Nassr’s demanding Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Fayha. Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute after visibly struggling. Television footage showed him on the bench with an ice pack on his hamstring, an ominous sight for supporters.

Medical examinations conducted on Tuesday, March 3 confirmed the issue. In an official statement, the club clarified the situation. “Cristiano Ronaldo has started a rehabilitation programme and his condition will be assessed day by day,” the statement read.

Further clarification described the problem as a hamstring tendon injury, a setback that typically requires careful management, particularly for an athlete in his forties. While muscle injuries can vary in severity, the early communication from the club emphasized structured rehabilitation rather than alarm.

No crisis for the World Cup

The central concern was always the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins on June 11 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Ronaldo is in line to become the first male player to feature in six World Cups, a milestone that would further cement his legacy. Crucially, current projections indicate that his participation in the tournament is not under serious threat.

Medical experts cited in regional reports suggest that even in the event of a moderate-grade strain, the recovery window would allow ample time for full fitness before Portugal’s World Cup opener. The Portuguese coaching staff is reportedly in constant contact with the medical team in Riyadh to monitor progress. At this stage, the focus remains simple: full recovery before competitive intensity resumes.

The timeline emerges

While the initial club statement avoided specifics, further details have gradually come into view. According to medical assessments relayed by Saudi physical therapist Thamer Al-Shahrani and widely reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo is expected to be sidelined for a short spell.

The likely scenario is that he will miss the upcoming league fixtures against NEOM SC and Al-Khaleej, with rehabilitation projected to last between two and four weeks maximum. If recovery proceeds smoothly, he could return toward the end of March, potentially rejoining Portugal for international duty. This timeline places his World Cup ambitions firmly on track.

It is worth noting that hamstring injuries, particularly tendon-related ones, require disciplined management. Rushing back too soon increases the risk of recurrence, and it’s something neither club nor country can afford at this stage of the season.

Carlo Ancelotti and Kylian Mbappe both added their sympathetic words to the flood of messages to Rodrygo after a devastating twist altered both club and country ambitions in one cruel moment.

Carlo Ancelotti and Kylian Mbappe both added their sympathetic words to the flood of messages to Rodrygo after a devastating twist altered both club and country ambitions in one cruel moment. What was initially feared has now been confirmed, and while the full emotional weight of those messages will emerge later, the reality is already painfully clear: Rodrygo’s season is over, and his 2026 World Cup dream with Brazil has been shattered.

The club confirmed the worst in an official medical update that sent shockwaves through Madrid and beyond. In a formal announcement, Real Madrid detailed the severity of the injury suffered by the Brazilian forward. “Following tests carried out today on our player Rodrygo by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and a rupture of the lateral meniscus of his right leg,” the club statement read.

The diagnosis leaves little room for optimism. A full ACL rupture combined with meniscus damage is among the most serious knee injuries in soccer, typically requiring extensive surgery and a long rehabilitation period.

Rodrygo had appeared as a substitute during the club’s 1-0 La Liga defeat to Getafe, entering the match in the 55th minute as the side chased an equalizer. According to multiple reports, the injury occurred roughly ten minutes later when he attempted to accelerate down the flank. Though he briefly went down in visible discomfort, he astonishingly continued playing until the final whistle. Medical examinations the following day revealed the full extent of the damage.

Whole season and World Cup lost

Initial projections suggested six to seven months on the sidelines, but subsequent assessments paint a far grimmer picture. El Mundo indicates that the recovery timeline could stretch closer to nine to 12 months, potentially ruling the Brazilian winger out until early or even mid-2027. That timeline carries enormous consequences.

Rodrygo will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season, and more heartbreakingly, he will not be available for Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in the United States. For a player entering his prime at 25, it is a crushing personal and professional setback.

The comparison within the club is sobering. Club captain Dani Carvajal endured a similar ACL and meniscus injury in October 2024 and required nine months to return. Rodrygo now faces a similarly long and arduous path. Compounding the difficulty is the context. The forward had only just returned from a month-long absence due to tendonitis. His comeback lasted barely half an hour before fate intervened again.

What did Mbappe and Ancelotti say about Rodrygo?

Amid the devastation, messages of solidarity poured in from teammates, compatriots, and former colleagues. Among them were Neymar and Vinicius, but two more tributes in particular carried profound emotional weight.

Kylian Mbappe shared his own heartfelt message: “All the strength of the world, cousin. Take time for yourself and your family, and come back stronger.” The affectionate “cousin” remark reflects the close bond between the two forwards; not a familial tie, but a symbol of their on-field chemistry and locker-room connection.

Shortly after, Brazil’s national team coach, Carlo Ancelotti, publicly expressed his support for the forward he once coached in Madrid. On social media, he wrote: “We will be by your side every step of the way until you’re back. Stay strong, Rodrygo.”

For Ancelotti, the blow is twofold. As Brazil’s manager since mid-2025, he had counted on Los Blancos’ star as a key figure in the Selecao’s bid for a record-extending sixth World Cup. Now, those plans must be redrawn without one of the nation’s most dynamic attacking threats.

Lionel Messi could end up suffering a major setback for the 2026 World Cup, in this case due to the lack of preparation of the Argentina national team.

Lionel Messi will enter the 2026 World Cup carrying the weight of defending champion for the first time in his career, tasked with leading Argentina in pursuit of back-to-back titles following the triumph in Qatar. But the legendary forward could be heading into the tournament facing a significant handicap, with the Albiceleste’s preparation schedule increasingly at risk of falling apart.

Under normal circumstances, national teams not involved in playoff fixtures would have up to four friendly matches across the March and May/June international windows before the competition kicks off. While several federations have already confirmed their schedules and venues, Argentina find themselves in a far more precarious position.

For the upcoming March window, the centerpiece was set to be the Finalissima against Lamine Yamal’s Spain, scheduled for March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar. However, the escalating tensions in the country have thrown those plans into disarray, with the venue now very much up in the air, even as both the Argentine and Spanish federations push to preserve the original date.

Further complicating matters, Argentina had also been slated to take part in the Qatar Football Festival alongside Spain, Serbia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the host nation, with a friendly against Qatar penciled in for Tuesday, March 31. But the Qatar Football Association has since announced the postponement of all tournaments, competitions and matches “effective from today and until further notice,” effectively wiping the event off the calendar.

What about the next international window?

With the Qatar friendly all but off the table, Argentina are racing against the clock to find both a replacement opponent and a venue for an additional match. As things stand, the Finalissima against Spain, itself still subject to logistical uncertainty, could end up being the only game on Argentina’s March schedule.

Looking further ahead, the plan had been to arrange friendly matches between June 1 and 10 against Mexico and Honduras, in Las Vegas and Miami respectively, as final tune-ups before the World Cup. However, as reported by TyC Sports, both of those fixtures have also fallen through, meaning that, at this point, the Finalissima could be the only preparation game before Argentina’s World Cup group stage opener against Algeria on June 16.

Argentina already struggled to organize friendlies

Given their status as one of the world’s elite national teams and the pulling power of Lionel Messi, one might assume arranging friendlies would be a straightforward task for Argentina. In practice, the AFA has repeatedly struggled to put games together, and the most recent example is not far back.

During the November international window, Argentina were set to travel to Angola for a friendly tied to the celebration of the African nation’s 50th anniversary of independence. Reports from Sport News Africa later revealed that the Angolan Football Federation paid approximately €12 million (around $12.7 million USD) to host the match, with Messi’s participation listed as one of the conditions of the deal.

That ultimately proved to be the only friendly of that window, after L’Équipe reported that Morocco, a late candidate to host Argentina, turned down the possibility after the AFA reportedly requested around €10 million to make the trip. With Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Angola representing Argentina’s most recent friendly opposition, the concern is no longer just about the quality of preparation, it is about whether there will be enough games at all.

Antoine Griezmann's move to the MLS with Orlando City has been put into question as head coach Diego Simeone is reportedly pushing him to stay at Atletico Madrid.

Antoine Griezmann has been one of the hottest topics in soccer over the past few weeks, with Orlando City making a strong push to bring the French star to Major League Soccer. However, his move to the Lions may be in jeopardy, with head coach Diego Simeone reportedly working to convince Griezmann to remain at Atlético Madrid.

Long coveted by MLS clubs, Griezmann has reportedly been the subject of advanced talks between Orlando City and Atlético Madrid. The move would represent a significant blow to the Colchoneros‘ squad mid-season, but with one Designated Player slot available, the Lions have been pushing hard to get the deal done before the primary MLS transfer window closes on March 26.

Adding to the intrigue, Simeone raised eyebrows last week when he appeared noncommittal about Griezmann’s future, saying he “doesn’t know” what will happen and suggesting the veteran forward is “in a position where he deserves to be able to choose” given everything he has contributed to the club. But Atlético‘s Copa del Rey run may have changed the calculus entirely.

Simeone to persuade Griezmann to stay

According to Cadena SER, Simeone is now close to convincing Griezmann to turn down an immediate move to Orlando City. The situation has shifted dramatically following Atlético’s Copa del Rey semifinal victory over FC Barcelona, a tie they advanced through despite losing the second leg 3-0, a game in which Griezmann underscored just how important he remains to this team.

Griezmann himself has shown no shortage of commitment to the Atlético cause. Following the elimination of Barcelona, the Frenchman posted an Instagram photo of himself celebrating alongside fallen Barça players with the caption “Does this photo go hard?,” a pointed callback to a similar post from last year when the Blaugrana knocked out the Colchoneros.

Now with a Copa del Rey final on the horizon, Simeone was asked whether Griezmann would be part of it: “I certainly hope so. He deserves it more than anyone. What he gave on the pitch today, the way he ran, was incredible. The quality and talent he possesses is something he will carry with him for the rest of his life.

“What more can I add to what you already know I feel for him? I love him dearly, I always want the best for him, and I truly hope he gets to play in that final,” Simeone added in his post-match press conference, sounding notably more optimistic about keeping Griezmann away from Orlando than he had in recent days.

The 2025-26 Copa del Rey final is scheduled for April 18 in Seville, with Atlético set to face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club, presenting Griezmann with the opportunity to cap his time at the club with a trophy. The only catch is that the final falls well after the MLS transfer window closes. To complicate matters further, SER reports that Orlando have warned the offer will not be renewed in the summer window, forcing Griezmann into a difficult choice: stay and play in the final, or make the move to North America now.