FIFA has been finalizing details for the 2026 World Cup in recent days, this time addressing how national teams will be required to submit their respective squads for the tournament. While reaffirming that the final roster will consist of 26 players, the governing body confirmed the deadlines for both the preliminary and final submissions.

First, national teams will be required to submit a preliminary list of up to 55 players by May 11. The expanded size of that list is intended to give coaching staffs a wide pool to draw from, accounting for potential injuries, dips in form or last-minute changes within the squad as the season winds down.

From that preliminary list, up to 29 names will then be cut, with the final 26-player roster due on May 30. Those are the players who will travel to North America to represent their respective nations throughout the tournament.

That gives coaching staffs just under three weeks between the preliminary and final submissions to make their last adjustments, factoring in player fitness and form heading into the competition. It is worth noting that most domestic leagues will have concluded by that point, with the one major exception being the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League final, which is scheduled to be played in Budapest on that same date, May 30.

The World Cup will kick off with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa on June 11. In the roughly two weeks between the final roster deadline and the start of the tournament, most national teams are expected to arrange warm-up friendlies to put the finishing touches on their preparation before beginning their campaigns in North America.

No extended 30-player list for 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup will make history not only as the first edition hosted across three different countries, but also as the first to feature 48 national teams. That expansion from the previous field of 32 has added an extra round to the knockout stage, meaning teams will now need to win eight matches instead of seven to lift soccer’s most coveted trophy.

With the addition of a Round of 32 and more games to be played, many federations had anticipated that squad sizes would be expanded further, as happened ahead of Qatar 2022 when rosters grew from 23 to 26 players, with some expecting a further increase to 30 for 2026. However, with this announcement, FIFA has stood firm on the position it first laid out in December 2025, confirming that squads will remain capped at 26 players.

The March FIFA break will be decisive for national teams still seeking a place at the 2026 World Cup. Both in UEFA and inter-confederation competition, this will be the final opportunity to secure qualification for the most important tournament in world soccer.

A total of six spots remain available for the World Cup. Four of them will be decided among national teams competing in Europe, while the remaining two will go to teams from other confederations facing off in Mexico.

The inter-confederation playoff is a tournament consisting of just four matches divided into two independent brackets. Pathway 1 will begin this Thursday at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, with the clash between New Caledonia and Jamaica.

The winner will then face DR Congo in the decisive match, to be played at the same venue next Tuesday. The team that prevails in that final will qualify for the World Cup, joining Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.

Pathway 2 of the inter-confederation playoff will be played entirely at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey. There, the semifinal matchup will feature Bolivia against Suriname, while Iraq await in the final. The winner of this bracket will be placed in Group I at the World Cup, alongside France, Senegal and Norway.

PATHWAY 1:

• Semifinal: New Caledonia vs Jamaica

• Final: DR Congo vs semifinal winner

PATHWAY 2:

• Semifinal: Bolivia vs Suriname

• Final: Iraq vs semifinal winner

European playoffs explained

At UEFA level, the playoff format will differ from the inter-confederation structure. A total of 16 national teams have qualified for this stage, divided into four independent brackets, from which four teams will advance to the World Cup.

Unlike the inter-confederation playoffs, which are played entirely at neutral venues, in Europe each bracket includes teams with home advantage and others forced to play away. All ties are single-leg matches and are played at the venue of the team listed first.

Path A features Italy vs Northern Ireland and Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina. The winners of those ties will meet in the decisive match on March 31 (to be played in Cardiff or Zenica), with the winner joining Group B alongside Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.

The Path B semifinals include Ukraine vs Sweden and Poland vs Albania. The final will be played in Valencia (where Ukraine are hosting due to security reasons) or Solna. The winner of this bracket will join Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia in Group F of the World Cup.

In Path C, the semifinal matchups will be Turkey vs Romania and Slovakia vs Kosovo. In the final, the possible venues are Bratislava and Pristina. The winner of this path will join Group D alongside United States, Australia and Paraguay.

Finally, Path D features Denmark vs North Macedonia and Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland. Prague and Dublin are the potential venues for the decisive match, which will grant the winner a place in Group A alongside Mexico, South Korea and South Africa.

PATH A:

• Italy vs Northern Ireland

• Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

PATH B:

• Ukraine vs Sweden

• Poland vs Albania

PATH C:

• Turkey vs Romania

• Slovakia vs Kosovo

PATH D:

• Denmark vs North Macedonia

• Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland

Lamine Yamal has gone from a promising young talent to one of the best players in the world in a very short time. A former Barcelona player like Ronald de Boer even placed him ahead of Raphinha, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius.

De Boer said this during the ‘Legends Trophy’ in Milan: “Yamal is the most decisive player in the world, especially for his age. He’s incredible. I also like Raphinha, Mbappé and Vinicius. There are many good players, I saw a few at Bayern Munich. But if I must choose one, I pick him.”

De Boer played just one season for Barcelona in a long career that also saw him spend many years with a strong Netherlands team. Even though he only won La Liga with the club in 1999, he also has a Champions League title with Ajax.

De Boer previews Barcelona – Atletico Madrid

While players are now in the international break, what comes after that with their clubs looks huge for everyone involved in important matches. The quarterfinals of the Champions League include some interesting ties, but Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid may be the most heated.

The Spanish clubs are renewing what was a dramatic Copa del Rey semifinal in which Barcelona almost came back from a 4-0 first-leg defeat before ultimately being eliminated by just one goal.

De Boer said: “It’s going to be very hard for Barcelona. Playing against Atletico Madrid is always hard. Barcelona must do their own game in both matches. I think they can win both matches if they are in shape and concentrated. With my Blaugrana heart, I cheer for them.”

Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid is set

If there were no surprises the round of 16, there were some potential classics to be seen in the quarterfinals. In the end, all the teams expected to advance did so. That left Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. The first match is set for April 8 in Barcelona, while the second leg should come on April 14 in Madrid.

Lionel Messi will be the face of Argentina‘s 2026 World Cup campaign in North America, with the tournament expected to be the final major competition of his career. With the March international friendlies serving as one of the last tests before the roster is set, reports have emerged claiming that Messi headlines a group of 21 players already locked into head coach Lionel Scaloni‘s plans.

Argentina will face Mauritania on Friday, March 27, and Zambia on Tuesday, March 31, in what will be among the final opportunities for players on the bubble to make their case for a World Cup spot. Scaloni has repeatedly stated that only Lionel Messi has his place guaranteed, while the remaining 25 spots are still up for grabs.

However, as reported by ESPN Argentina, Scaloni already has 21 names locked in for the Albiceleste’s World Cup squad. While Messi leads the list, the core group also includes several key members of the side that lifted the trophy in Qatar in 2022.

The matches against the two African nations will not be the only factor in the final decisions, as players will also have the opportunity to impress Scaloni during the training camp on home soil. Depending on how individuals adapt to the tactical setup and build chemistry with their teammates, just five spots remain open ahead of the official roster announcement in May.

Argentina’s 21 confirmed list

The 21 names reportedly locked in by Scaloni, organized by position and team, are the following:

• Goalkeepers: Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez (Aston Villa), Geronimo Rulli (O. Marseille), and Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid).
• Defenders: Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid), Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate), Nicolas Tagliafico (O. Lyon), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica), and Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United)
• Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Leandro Paredes (Boca Juniors), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid), Thiago Almada (Atletico Madrid), Nico Paz (Como), and Nicolas Gonzalez (Atletico Madrid).
• Forwards: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid), and Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan).

Who is battling for a place in Argentina’s squad?

Compared to the squad that won the 2022 World Cup, Argentina still appear to need one left back, one left-footed center back, one midfielder and one additional forward, with a fifth slot remaining flexible depending on squad needs. For the left back position, the race appears open among World Cup winner Marcos Acuna, Gabriel Rojas and Valentin Barco, the latter of whom has also been used in midfield during his time in France.

At center back, Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi and Olympique Marseille’s Facundo Medina are the primary candidates for the remaining spot, with Medina holding an edge thanks to his versatility. The battle in midfield appears to be between Franco Mastantuono and Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, with Mastantuono having lost some ground due to his performances at Real Madrid.

Finally, the third forward spot behind Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez remains wide open. The leading candidates appear to be Palmeiras’ Jose Luis Lopez and RC Strasbourg’s Joaquin Panichelli, who is currently among the top scorers in Ligue 1.

Real Madrid once again finds itself at the center of uncomfortable scrutiny. After the shocking controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s knee, new revelations suggest that Eduardo Camavinga may also have been affected by similar medical negligence. As France prepares for the 2026 World Cup, the national team now confronts growing unease over the condition of two of its biggest stars. The club, in the singular, insists that all protocols were followed, yet the evidence emerging paints a more concerning picture.

The fallout from Mbappe’s case has already become one of the most heavily criticized medical incidents in recent soccer memory. What first appeared to be a minor issue spiraled into a full-blown scandal after reports stated that Los Blancos’ medical staff scanned the wrong knee. Now, with France watching closely, the possibility of another misdiagnosis sends an unwelcome shock through a national setup already burdened by injury worries.

French media outlets, already angered by the Mbappe revelations, have reacted with disbelief at the suggestion that another key player may have faced similar treatment. For Real Madrid, the timing could not be worse. As the build-up to the summer accelerates and scrutiny increases on every detail, questions about trust, competence, and accountability grow louder.

Only after several days of speculation did the full story emerge, revealing that Camavinga’s diagnostic situation mirrored the Mbappe case in ways that France will find deeply unsettling. According to L’Equipe, Real Madrid’s medical team scanned the wrong ankle, clearing Camavinga to play despite a genuine injury.

Not just Mbappe: Real Madrid made second misdiagnosis

As reported by L’Equipe, “they also got the wrong leg concerning the MRI of Eduardo Camavinga’s left ankle injury, which occurred on December 3 in Bilbao.” The publication added that “four days later, he was on the bench against Celta Vigo, before being unavailable for two weeks.” This confirms that the doctors examined his right ankle instead of his injured left one, a repetition of the same type of mistake made during Mbappe’s knee scans.

The result was a predictable setback. Camavinga was cleared to return prematurely, played against Celta Vigo on December 7, and then immediately broke down again. The midfielder subsequently missed multiple weeks, mirroring Mbappe’s extended absence caused by a similar diagnostic error. For a club priding itself on elite standards, the pattern is deeply embarrassing.

Mbappe’s case still overshadows the club

The Camavinga revelations come on the heels of the Mbappe scandal, first exposed by The Athletic. The outlet reported that “Mbappe’s knee injury worsened when Real Madrid medical staff scanned the wrong leg.” French journalist Daniel Riolo went further, calling it a catastrophe: “It wasn’t just a mistake, it was a major accident… He could have completely smashed his knee.”

Mbappe unknowingly played three full matches with inflammation and a partial ligament rupture, scoring in all of them while unknowingly worsening the injury. France now sees both cases as troubling signals, especially with World Cup preparations underway.

Spain has a shortlist of top goalkeepers who could fit in any club in the world. Unai Simón plays for a less glamorous side with Athletic Club, but he has earned his place in the national team. His role has been important for Spain, and he compared his colleagues at Real Madrid and Barcelona, Thibaut Courtois and Joan García.

Simón praised them in an interview with El Partidazo: “Courtois is a goalkeeper who is always at the highest level. García is the one who comes closest because of the level he is showing and the points he is earning for his team. Barcelona are right up there because of performances like the one he had against Rayo Vallecano last weekend.”

His role in Luis de la Fuente’s team has been key in establishing Simón among the best. He looks ready to take the main spot for Spain at the World Cup, but he faces competition from Arsenal’s David Raya and Real Sociedad’s Álex Remiro.

Simón picks the best goalkeepers in the world

The Athletic Club player is a leader for his club, and also for Spain. His humility also showed when he was asked who the best goalkeepers in the world are, and he did not include himself in the list. Instead, he first chose the best in La Liga.

For Simón, the best three goalkeepers in his own league come from the three biggest clubs, as he picked Courtois, García and Atlético Madrid’s Jan Oblak to complete the podium.

As for the best three in the world, he replaced Oblak with another Spanish goalkeeper ahead of names like Gianluigi Donnarumma, Manuel Neuer and Emiliano Martínez. Simón said: “The best three in the world are Courtois, García and Raya.”

Simón on the Finalissima

The current conflict in the Middle East led to the cancellation of the Finalissima. There was strong anticipation for the match in which Spain was set to face Argentina.

Simón said: “It’s a special title and a perfect test of how you are arriving at the World Cup. It’s a shame it could not happen for whatever reason. I don’t know the exact motive, but I would have loved to play it.”

Despite his impressive level in the Premier League, Casemiro has announced his departure from Manchester United as a free agent. As a result, the Brazilian has been linked with a potential move to MLS. However, the 34-year-old star is reportedly close to reuniting with Cristiano Ronaldo, as Al-Ittihad are interested in signing him, but under a clear condition.

According to ESPN, Al-Ittihad are closely monitoring the potential arrival of Casemiro as a free agent, as he would be open to moving to Saudi Arabia. After shining with Manchester United, the Brazilian is seen as an immediate-impact signing. However, the 34-year-old star would only join the Saudi Pro League under one condition: The departure of Fabinho at the end of the season.

After arriving in 2023, Fabinho has established as one of Al-Ittihad’s most important players, becoming an undisputed starter. With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2026, the club are prioritizing his renewal over the 34-year-old midfielder. However, the Brazilian has not provided updates in negotiations, making Casemiro emerge as a world-class alternative.

While Casemiro would be open to a move to the Saudi Pro League, he may not be keen on arriving as merely an ‘alternative’ rather than a marquee signing. Due to his solid performances at Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr and Al Hilal are also interested on him, reports Ekrem Konur. For that reason, the Brazilian hold several offers to decide his future.

Casemiro keeps thriving at Manchester United

Amid the turmoil surrounding Manchester United’s sporting project, Casemiro has established as one of the team’s most important players. Although he started out as a substitute under Ruben Amorim, the Brazilian has earned his spot through strong performances. At 34, he remains a fixture in the lineup under interim coach Michael Carrick, prompting fans to call for a contract extension.

In light of this, Carrick has been candid about the Brazilian’s future: “I think it’s when something’s decided and in some ways the fact that it was decided makes things a little bit easier and everyone understands the situation really,” he said, as per Mirror. Despite this, he praised its impact: “I think the impact he’s had has been terrific, certainly since I’ve been here and working with him, and his influence in the team and big moments in goals.”

Casemiro could be a star signing for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Al Nassr have established themselves as the best team in the Saudi Pro League, excelling offensively. However, Marcelo Brozović’s future remains uncertain, as his contract expires in the summer and has not yet been renewed. In light of this, Casemiro could emerge as a transformative signing, potentially reuniting with Cristiano Ronaldo for the third time.

Although Marcelo Brozovic has put in solid performances at Al Nassr, he hasn’t managed to stand out and has been criticized for his lack of defensive impact, making his departure a solid possibility. Given this, Casemiro’s potential arrival would be a definite boost, as he continues to shine at Manchester United. Additionally, he has played 122 games with Cristiano throughout his career, so it would be a long-awaited reunion.

Despite being the national team with the most World Cup titles in history (5), many do not consider Brazil among the favorites to compete for the trophy in North America 2026. Surprisingly, that opinion is shared by one of the team’s biggest stars, Vinicius, who made a candid admission on the matter.

“We are not the favorites based on the results we’ve had,” Vinicius acknowledged during Wednesday’s press conference ahead of the friendly against France, according to Diario AS. This refers to Brazil’s performance during the World Cup qualifiers, where they finished fifth, suffering six defeats in 18 matches.

“But the weight of the shirt, the quality of the players we have here… We just needed to get in sync,” added the Real Madrid winger, showing satisfaction with the team’s current form. “Since Ancelotti arrived, we have a better idea of how to play. It takes a lot of pressure off us. We have to give everything we can.”

The impact of the Italian coach’s arrival was quickly evident. In June 2025, when Ancelotti was hired, Brazil were at serious risk of missing the World Cup. However, an away draw against Ecuador in the debut match under the new coach and a key win over Paraguay set them on the right path.

Since Ancelotti took charge, Brazil have recorded four wins, two draws, and two losses, considering World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. Beyond the 58.3% win rate, Ancelotti’s major contribution has been to give solidity to a team that previously appeared vulnerable, allowing the talent of their stars to shine more effectively.

Vinicius praises Ancelotti

For Vinicius, Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival at Brazil was a breath of fresh air. The coach was instrumental in the winger’s adaptation at Real Madrid, and together they experienced a successful period that included two UEFA Champions League titles.

Asked about Ancelotti’s influence on the Brazil national team, Vinicius was clear. “He’s in charge. He’s an important coach with many titles and experience,” said the 25-year-old. “You always learn when you talk with Ancelotti. He asks us about the position we want to play, how we prefer to defend, but the decision is his. We hope his ideas are absorbed as quickly as possible.”

Vinicius on his role with Brazil

Despite being an undisputed global soccer star and a key player for Real Madrid, Vinicius still needs to replicate that performance with Brazil. He has registered just 8 goals and 7 assists in 45 matches, and since his debut in 2019 has not won any titles.

“I imagine everyone wants me to be one of the leaders. I’m ready for all the challenges in my career,” Vinicius said, before sending a clear message about his ambitions for this summer’s FIFA tournament: “I’ve already played in a World Cup; I don’t want to lose again. I’ve been working hard at home, I don’t want to get injured.”

Christian Pulisic once again found himself at the center of the conversation after Milan’s tense 3-2 win over Torino last weekend. The United States forward, preparing for a challenging international window with the national team, delivered an important assist despite his ongoing search for a goal in 2026. And although Milan’s campaign remains intense, the eyes of the USMNT are fixed on how their star attacker handles this moment.

The match at San Siro carried its own symbolism, especially with speculation surrounding the relationship between Pulisic and Rafael Leao. The celebration after one of the Rossoneri’s goals, in which half the team performed Pulisic’s gesture and the other half imitated Leao’s, sent a loud message about unity. It was a moment the American embraced, even while carrying the weight of a growing narrative about his form.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, discussions around the USMNT intensify, particularly with tough friendlies against Belgium and Portugal on the horizon. Pulisic, who has been called up for the March training camp, remains at the center of tactical plans despite the headlines about his goal drought. Both Milan and the national team depend heavily on what he offers beyond scoring, a point his managers have stressed repeatedly.

Still, beneath all the noise surrounding form, relationships, and upcoming challenges, another storyline quietly emerged from the weekend. One that hints at something much bigger than a single assist. Christian Pulisic has made Serie A history in a way no other player has managed since the moment he arrived in Italy.

Pulisic reaches historic Serie A milestone

According to data highlighted by Milan News, Christian Pulisic is the only Serie A player since the 2023-24 season to record at least 30 goals (31) and 20 assists (20) in the competition. This extraordinary statistic, quietly tucked behind conversations about droughts and form, underscores just how influential he has been in Italy. While the drought headlines dominate, the numbers paint the opposite story: consistent output over two seasons unmatched by anyone else in the league.

Pulisic’s latest contribution came in the win over Torino, where his precise delivery set up Adrien Rabiot for Milan’s second goal. It was his first goal involvement of 2026, and though not the goal he’s been craving, it could prove a turning point. Massimiliano Allegri’s side opened the scoring through Pavlovic before Rabiot and Fofana extended the lead, with Torino responding through Vlasic’s penalty.

The American’s creative influence shone through, showing why both Milan and the USMNT continue to value his presence despite the temporary dip in finishing. And with eight league games left as Milan pursues the Scudetto, his timing could not be more important.

The 2026 goal drought debate and support from Pochettino

Despite going three months without a goal, Pulisic insists he is far from concerned. Speaking to Men’s Journal, he explained his mindset: “I’m not too concerned about it. I really do feel like I’m in a good spot and also playing well.” He emphasized the unpredictable nature of scoring form, adding: “This is just how the career goes, ups and downs.”

USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino echoed that sentiment when announcing his squad for the March friendlies. “Christian is playing and of course he’s not scoring, but for me, it’s not only to score goals,” Pochettino said. “I am happy with him in the way that he’s performing, his commitment with the team, and the time that he’s playing.”

Rafael Leao has been one of AC Milan‘s standout performers in recent years, but his future at the Italian club has reportedly been called into question over the past several days. With a potential replacement already being discussed internally, the Portuguese star’s situation figures to come to a head in the upcoming transfer window.

As reported by Sky Sports‘ Maurizio Compagnoni, there is a real chance Rafael Leao departs AC Milan in the summer transfer window at the end of the 2025-26 season. The uncertainty stems from the fact that both the club and the player have been unable to reach an agreement on a contract extension.

Leao’s current deal runs through June 2028, but with Milan simultaneously working on renewals for stars like Christian Pulisic and Mike Maignan, his situation is one the club is also eager to resolve. Talks have been underway for several months, with the Italian side tabling a proposal that would keep him at the club through 2030 or 2031.

Through 24 appearances in the 2025-26 season, Leao has contributed 10 goals and two assists. Even so, the Portuguese has been operating below his best, in part because head coach Massimiliano Allegri has deployed him in a more central role as a finisher rather than as an orthodox winger, limiting the one-on-one opportunities in which he has traditionally thrived.

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport and other Italian outlets, Arsenal and Manchester United have emerged as the clubs most interested in signing Leao. However, his Transfermarkt valuation of 65 million euros, combined with a reported release clause of 150 million euros, represents a significant obstacle to any potential departure.

An Argentine striker as the main candidate

Allegri has typically preferred more physically imposing strikers, in the mold of Santiago Gimenez or Niclas Fullkrug, over quick, dribble-heavy wide forwards in the mold of Leao. That stylistic tension has been one of the factors behind the underperformance of the Leao-Pulisic combination compared to previous seasons, and a new name has now surfaced as Milan’s primary attacking target.

As reported by Sky Sport Italia, Bologna striker Santiago Castro has emerged as the leading candidate to join AC Milan. The Argentine fits Allegri’s preferred profile well, offering not only the traits of a traditional center forward but also the ability to link up play effectively, as evidenced by his team-leading nine goal contributions this season, seven goals and two assists.

Even so, Castro arriving in Milan remains more hypothetical than concrete at this stage, with only reported interest and no contact between the clubs yet. Prizing him away from Bologna would likely cost between 40 and 50 million euros, a sum that Milan are not currently in a position to commit.

The world’s biggest soccer event is inching closer, yet tension hangs in the air long before the first whistle blows. FIFA has confirmed that its long-awaited “last-minute” ticket window for the 2026 World Cup is officially scheduled, even as supporters voice fierce opposition to soaring prices.

The governing body insists that demand is unprecedented, framing the upcoming sales phase as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. Fans, however, fear it may be little more than another rushed scramble in a process already marked by frustration. Despite the excitement surrounding a World Cup hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, many supporters feel sidelined.

Reports of heavy financial burdens, obscure terms, and unpredictable ticket costs have continued to overshadow the buildup to the final sales wave. Critics say loyal followers of the game, especially those traveling long distances, face a system that rewards speed, luck, and deep pockets rather than devotion.

At the heart of the controversy is the price of entry to soccer’s most iconic matches. Consumer associations in Europe have gone as far as filing a formal complaint, claiming FIFA’s methods constitute an abuse of monopoly power. For fans hoping to follow their national team across three countries, the ticketing landscape has become something of a minefield rather than a celebration.

Just before the next major phase unfolds, FIFA has clarified when the final sales will open to the public, a date many supporters instantly recognized, not for its convenience, but for its symbolism. And that date is April 1, the day FIFA opens general access to the final sales window.

Final ticket phase begins as FIFA confirms release

According to FIFA’s official statement, “tickets will be available to the general public on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 11 a.m. ET on Wednesday, April 1.” The Last-Minute Sales Phase launches immediately after the final six qualifying spots are determined, with four European play-off winners and two intercontinental finalists rounding out the tournament field.

This marks the final opportunity for supporters to secure seats for the largest World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across the three host nations. FIFA highlighted that, for the first time in this cycle, fans will be allowed to select specific seats, departing from the previous system of rigid four-tiered categories.

Additionally, “those who have already purchased tickets will be able to see their assigned seat locations from April 1,” a change intended to add clarity after months of uncertainty. Yet while choice has expanded, so too have concerns over the cost of that choice.

Supporter groups file formal complaints over “excessive” prices

The Soccer Supporters Europe group has spearheaded a major pushback, calling FIFA’s pricing model “a monumental betrayal.” The organization accused the governing body of “opaque and unfair purchasing conditions,” arguing that fans are left with only two options: “pay up or lose out.” 

With final tickets reaching $4,185 at face value and resale listings exploding to $190,000 per seat, supporters say affordability has all but vanished. Dynamic pricing, described by Gianni Infantino as a reflection of “high demand”, has become the primary target of complaints. Critics argue that the model lacks safeguards, allowing prices to surge without warning.

Meanwhile, a small allocation of $60 tickets has offered little relief, as FSE claims they were “virtually sold out before sales opened to the general public.” European regulators are now assessing the formal complaint filed with the European Commission.

Lionel Messi established as the most important player in FC Barcelona’s recent era. Through his impact on the pitch, the Argentine became the club’s all-time top scorer and its most decorated player in history. While many fans and players consider him the greatest soccer player of all time, president Joan Laporta chooses to pass on him, selecting Johan Cruyff instead.

“He has been the most aesthetically pleasing soccer player I have ever seen in my life… We praise Johan (Cruyff) the coach a lot because he was a revolution, but Johan the player, for those of us who saw him, has been the best player in history for me. With all due respect to figures like Pelé, Maradona, Ronaldinho or Leo Messi, Johan had it all. And he also had leadership,” Laporta said, via Esport3.

While Joan Laporta’s words may sound like a subtle dig at Lionel Messi, he is aiming to elevate the legacy of Johan Cruyff, who is often comparatively overlooked in soccer history. Throughout his professional career, the Dutchman led Ajax to three UEFA Champions League titles, earning three Ballon d’Or awards. In addition, he captivated fans with his elegance on the pitch, defining an era.

Even though Laporta’s arguments being well-founded, his remarks contradict his previous statements. Over the course of his tenure as Barcelona president, he has repeatedly referred to Lionel Messi as the GOAT, even describing him as the most impactful player in the club’s history. For this reason, his shift in narrative could indeed reflect his tense relationship with the Argentine.

Cruyff is the most influential figure in Barcelona’s history

Unlike Real Madrid, Barcelona have not been a dominant team since their founding, winning their first UEFA Cup in the 1991–92 season. Consequently, Johan Cruyff’s arrival in 1973 did transform the team’s fortunes, boosting its competitiveness. However, the real impact came when he became the Blaugranas’ coach in 1988, establishing a style that elevated the team’s global influence.

Cruyff transformed the ‘total football’ style pioneered by Rinus Michels, emphasizing control of the game, and introducing a new way of viewing the game. In doing so, he inspired legends such as Frank Rijkaard, and Pep Guardiola. While Lionel Messi is the most outstanding player, without the Dutchman’s impact, the Blaugranas would not be such a dominant team.

Throughout his career, Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Johan Cruyff is the most transformative figure in soccer history over the last 50 years: “There is no one who has given as much to soccer as both a player and a coach… The Barcelona that has dominated Europe and the world could not be understood without his arrival,” he said, as per RTVE.

Lionel Messi took Barcelona’s impact to historic levels

Lionel Messi’s legacy does not compete with or seek to diminish Johan Cruyff’s legacy. Far from competing with him, the Argentine became the player who best embodied his style of play. Not only did he score 672 goals, but he also contributed 303 assists. Furthermore, he led the most successful era in Barcelona’s history, winning numerous titles that brought his legacy into sharper focus.

With his immense impact, the Argentine stands out as Barcelona’s GOAT, having led the team to legendary success. Not only is he the all-time leading scorer and assist provider in the team’s history, but he is also the most decorated player in the Blaugranas’ history. For this reason, Joan Laporta’s words came as a shock to the fans, as Messi’s arrival is equally historic.

For the March friendlies against France and Croatia, Carlo Ancelotti decided not to include Neymar in the Brazil squad, which reduces his chances of being part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The head coach spoke on the matter and sent a message to those who criticized his decision.

“I observe and hear everything that is said about Neymar,” Ancelotti began, during the pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s game against France, shared by Diario AS. “It’s normal. Everyone can have an opinion on soccer. There is no clear science. I have to respect everyone’s opinion.”

Many expected Neymar to have the chance to return to the national team during this March FIFA break, after two and a half years away. However, the coach decided not to call him, arguing that he is not in optimal physical condition, while clarifying that there is still a chance Ney could join ahead of the World Cup.

Among the critics of that decision are several icons of Brazilian soccer, including Romario, who sent a strong message to Ancelotti: “I want to make it clear that while I am fully in favor of Neymar going, I will continue to support the pursuit of the ‘Hexa’ even if he doesn’t. But the message is clear: Pay attention, mister!”

Similarly, Fabinho also defended Neymar’s inclusion in the Brazil roster. “He can make a difference at any moment, so he can be very important in a World Cup. If he is in good form and physically ready, he is the best,” said the former Liverpool star during an interview with L’Equipe.

Ancelotti reflects on his work in Brazil

In the same press conference, Carlo Ancelotti reviewed his first months in charge of the Brazil national team, which is his first international coaching experience. “Many of us regret that there is little time to train, and we have to focus on the quality of training sessions, meetings… It’s more a matter of quality than time,” he explained.

Regarding the next challenge against France, Ancelotti admitted he has not yet finalised the lineup and spoke about his priorities when planning strategy. “We want to play a good game by controlling the match and maintaining balance,” said the coach. “Playing against France is an important game, especially against a team that is a favourite to win the World Cup. We want to show good attitude and quality.”

Vinicius speaks on Neymar’s absence

After Carlo Ancelotti, it was Vinicius’ turn to face the press in the conference room. The Real Madrid winger was also asked about Neymar’s absence and did not hesitate to praise his teammate.

“Ney is one of my idols. He is doing everything possible to be at 100%, to return to the national team… Now, the decision is in the hands of the coach,” Vini said, placing the responsibility for the decision on Ancelotti.

After nine years, Mohamed Salah has decided to leave Liverpool at the end of the season. While he had a contract through 2027, both parties reached an agreement for him to leave as a free agent. While his current season has drawn criticism, the Egyptian has left a historic legacy in the Premier League, prompting legend Jamie Carragher to rank him ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo in the league’s history.

“In the pantheon of overseas attacking players to have excelled in England, only Thierry Henry eclipses Salah’s output and consistency. While many will argue the merits of players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Eden Hazard, Gianfranco Zola, Dennis Bergkamp or Eric Cantona, none of them produced the same devastating numbers as consistently, season-after-season, as the Egyptian,” Carragher said, via The Telegraph.

Cristiano Ronaldo has built a legendary career, playing a central role in the GOAT debate. While he has won a Ballon d’Or and multiple Premier League titles, he made a far greater impact in LaLiga with Real Madrid, netting 450 goals and contributing 131 assists. In his six-year tenure at Manchester United, he tallied 145 goals and 73 assists, being frequently overtaken by Wayne Rooney.

While Cristiano has made a significant impact on soccer history, Salah has been more influential in the Premier League. He has become the highest-scoring foreign player with 191 goals and ranks fourth among all-time Premier League scorers, behind Wayne Rooney, Harry Kane, and Alan Shearer. In addition to this, he led an historic era within Liverpool, winning multiple trophies.

Mohamed Salah reigns as a transformative figure at Liverpool

Mohamed Salah has become one of the most legendary figures in Liverpool’s history. Alongside Steve Gerrard, the Egyptian has emerged as the player with the greatest impact on the team’s recent modern era. He not only made his mark as a goal-scorer but was also part of the legendary attacking trio featuring Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mané that competed with Manchester City for several years.

While Firmino and Mané left the team, the Egyptian remained with the Reds, continuing to shine for several more seasons. In fact, Salah was the top scorer in the most recent Premier League season with 29 goals. As a result, he has demonstrated impressive consistency that has led Liverpool for nearly a decade, cementing his status as a true legend.

Unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, Mohamed Salah experienced his peak performance in the Premier League, making history as a goalscorer and at Liverpool FC. Moreover, the Egyptian played a key role in lifting the Reds from a difficult period to becoming one of the top teams in England.

Match Overview

A trip to the semifinals is at stake as Real Madrid prepare for a massive quarterfinal test against domestic rival Barcelona. Madrid come in riding confidence after surviving a demanding battle with Paris FC, proving their resilience and setting the stage for a potential breakthrough performance on Europe’s biggest stage.

The face a Barcelona side that dominated the league phase to secure the top spot, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament’s top contenders and a team accustomed to deep runs. With pride, momentum, and a place in the final four all hanging in the balance, this rivalry clash has all the ingredients of a must-watch showdown.

With Robert Lewandowski’s form on the decline, Ferran Torres has established as Barcelona’s starting striker. However, the Spaniard’s performance has dipped, and his contract renewal is now in doubt. Given this situation, his departure could potentially pave the way for Julián Álvarez to join the Blaugranas, as he could be transferred amid Atlético Madrid growing interest.

According to a report by Fernando Polo and Roger Torello in Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugranas have put Ferran’s renewal on hold, as they believe he is already earning a good salary and do not plan to offer him a higher one. With his current contract set to expire in 2027, the Spaniard could be transferred this summer. In light of this, Atlético Madrid are showing interest in his talent.

The Colchoneros have set their sights on Ferran Torres, as sporting director Mateu Alemany supports his signing, having already brought him to Barcelona in 2021, reports Mundo Deportivo. As a result, the Blaugranas would be open to his departure, aiming to raise funds to pursue Julián Álvarez. They are even considering including him as part of a deal for the Argentine.

As a cornerstone of Atlético Madrid, and after Antoine Griezmann’s move to Orlando City, they are reluctant to let Julián Álvarez leave, which could further complicate negotiations. Despite this, the possibility of signing Ferran Torres could help unlock talks, but it would still need to be accompanied by a significant transfer fee, as they reportedly value the Argentine at €150 million.

Report: Barcelona also keep Victor Osimhen as key target

Looking ahead to the 2026-27 season, Barcelona appear to have clarified their objectives for the striker spot. As per president Joan Laporta, they continue to view Robert Lewandowski’s contract extension as a priority, as they consider him essential. With Ferran’s potential departure and the difficulty in securing Julián Álvarez, the Blaugranas are reportedly keeping Victor Osimhen as an alternative.

According to Sergi Solé, via Mundo Deportivo, Victor Osimhen is emerging as the top candidate to bolster the attack. With a contract with Galatasaray running through 2027, the Nigerian could command a hefty transfer fee, meaning negotiations would not be straightforward. However, he has scored 56 goals in 70 games, so he would also be a signing with an immediate impact.

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., just 15, has stepped into the spotlight after training with Real Madrid’s academy, a moment that has naturally reignited speculation about what such a move could mean for the family. For a forward whose father still dominates headlines at 41, the timing could not be more intriguing.

Ronaldo Jr. has been developing his game at Al-Nassr, following the path his father set in Saudi Arabia. Now, with these first sessions for Real Madrid’s U-16s, the young striker appears to be entering a decisive new phase. And because the Ronaldo name has always carried weight in one club in particular — Real Madrid — whispers about the future have intensified.

But while fans are already imagining the teenager in white, the attention has also drifted toward what this could represent beyond the boy’s development. Cristiano Ronaldo Sr., still scoring freely and still chasing his 1,000-goal dream, has long insisted he is focused on the present. Yet a move of this nature touches the past, the present, and the future all at once.

It is more than a simple youth training session; it reconnects Cristiano Ronaldo’s family to the club where he built the most dominant years of his career. And as that connection reopens, so too does another question, one tied closely to the young player’s trial and revealed only now: whether this development hints at a return to Spain for Cristiano Ronaldo himself.

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. takes first steps toward Real Madrid move

According to The Athletic, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. trained with Real Madrid’s U-16 side as part of an ongoing evaluation process. The report notes that the teenager took part in at least two sessions at Valdebebas, where coaches were “impressed” with both his attitude and his adaptability. AS added that staff described him as “super humble and polite,” praising his “perfect first impression.”

Ronaldo Jr., who currently plays in Al-Nassr’s academy, has already built an impressive résumé at youth level. He previously spent time at Manchester United and Juventus, mirroring his father’s journey. Internationally, he has represented Portugal at U-15 and U-16 level, scoring in the Vlatko Markovic International Tournament — a competition his team went on to win.

During his Real Madrid sessions, he was deployed primarily as a winger, showcasing his speed and technical ability. The Cadete A squad he trained with is one of the strongest youth teams in Spain, currently top of their league with 19 wins and one draw in 20 matches. Integrating into such an elite environment—even temporarily—signals how highly he is regarded.

The club’s interest is said to be genuine, and more sessions are planned. Should everything progress smoothly, Ronaldo Jr. is expected to formally join La Fábrica, making him the latest in a growing list of sons of legends currently in Madrid’s academy.

What it means and why it raises questions about his father

The possibility of Cristiano Jr. joining Real Madrid naturally brings attention back to his father’s ties to the club. Cristiano Ronaldo Sr., the all-time leading scorer in Real Madrid history with 450 goals, remains under contract with Al-Nassr until 2027. Yet AS and Marca both acknowledge that such a move “inevitably sparks speculation.”

And for good reason. Ronaldo Sr. still maintains strong emotional and professional connections to Madrid. He visits the city often, owns property there, and recently purchased 25% of La Liga club Almería. A return to Spain in a sporting or ambassadorial capacity has always seemed like a question of when, not if.

His current football reality complicates things only slightly. Ronaldo stands at 964 career goals, still working toward the mythical 1,000-goal milestone. He is thriving in the Saudi Pro League with 22 goals and 4 assists in 26 matches this season, keeping Al-Nassr at the top of the table. Leaving now appears unlikely.

But if his son were to settle in Madrid? The timeline begins to shift. Multiple reports suggest that while Ronaldo will honor his Al-Nassr contract, a return to Spain is “expected at some point” — whether as a club figure, a mentor, or simply to remain closer to his family’s footballing trajectory.

Kylian Mbappe‘s knee injury has kept alarm bells ringing at both Real Madrid and the France national team, especially with the World Cup less than three months away. Now, reports have emerged confirming that, prior to his evaluation in Paris, the Spanish club conducted their injury tests on the wrong knee.

The news broke on Tuesday when journalist Daniel Riolo revealed on RMC‘s “After Foot” program that Mbappe had received “a poor diagnosis in Madrid,” leaving the star reportedly frustrated with the club. French specialist Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet, whom Mbappe consulted in Paris, also confirmed that “work had been done poorly in Madrid,” and went on to propose a muscle-strengthening protocol that avoided surgery and has since allowed Mbappe to recover.

When asked about his condition, Mbappe told Diario AS that he was “recovered 100 percent,” while noting that he had received a thorough diagnosis during his time in Paris. The Real Madrid star also addressed the swirl of speculation surrounding his fitness that had led to misinterpretations during a stretch in which he sat out five consecutive games.

The story was later picked up in Spain by Miguel Angel Diaz on Deportes COPE. “Real Madrid, in the initial diagnosis, got the knee wrong. Instead of examining Mbappe’s left knee, they examined the right one,” said the Spanish journalist, corroborating the reports of negligence in the club’s initial assessment.

These reports would also lend credibility to Mbappe’s decision to travel to Paris specifically for treatment, a move that at the time drew significant questions about his commitment to the club.

Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa had cited Mbappe’s fitness as the reason he did not start in the derby against Atletico Madrid, but the star has now pushed back on that framing, raising further questions about his physical condition and the apparent breakdown in communication between the parties involved.

Mbappe and France arrive in Boston

While the reports surrounding his knee continue to swirl, Mbappe made clear his excitement about rejoining the France national team for the March international window. Les Bleus have already arrived in Boston and are based at the Four Seasons hotel, which will also serve as their headquarters during the 2026 World Cup.

Set to train at New England Revolution facilities on Wednesday, France will open their two-game tour against Brazil on Thursday, March 26, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. Mbappe and company will then travel to Landover, Maryland, to face Colombia at Northwest Stadium on Sunday, March 29, wrapping up a challenging run of matches against two of South America’s top sides.

Bernardo Silva has been strongly linked with a potential move to Inter Miami to play alongside Lionel Messi, with his contract set to expire in June 2026. However, despite the reports connecting him to the MLS club, the Herons will face significant financial hurdles to get the deal done.

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Miami have identified Bernardo Silva as an attractive target for the second half of the 2026 season. The Portuguese midfielder will not be continuing at Manchester City once his contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 campaign, and with his 32nd birthday arriving in August, his agent Jorge Mendes has reportedly begun working to find his client a new club.

While Mendes is one of the most powerful agents in the game and the draw of playing alongside Lionel Messi is undeniable, Inter Miami will not be the only suitor. Beyond the Herons, Mendes is reportedly fielding interest from Europe and Saudi Arabia, with Juventus, Galatasaray and Benfica, the club where Silva came through as a youth player, all considered concrete options.

Bernardo Silva remains a key figure both for the Portugal national team and at Manchester City, where he serves as captain and wears the armband in every game he starts. With 42 appearances for the Citizens this season, contributing three goals and five assists, he could follow the path of players like Son Heung-min and Rodrigo De Paul by making the move to MLS while still performing at a high European level.

Would Bernardo Silva’s signing be financially viable?

With the CONCACAF Champions Cup as the primary objective for the 2026 season, Inter Miami invested heavily in squad reinforcements, spending over $40 million on several signings, with German Berterame the headline addition at $15 million from Monterrey. Now that the club fell short of even reaching the quarterfinals, the Herons are left chasing MLS glory with limited financial flexibility.

As published by MLS in February, Inter Miami currently have the second-lowest amount of available 2026 General Allocation Money in the league, with just $17,361 remaining. With only the LA Galaxy holding less at zero dollars, pulling off a signing of Bernardo Silva’s caliber will be an enormous challenge.

With his contract expiring on June 30, Inter Miami would not owe Manchester City a transfer fee. However, Silva is currently the second-highest-paid player at City behind Erling Haaland, earning $26.7 million per year ($21.4 million base salary plus $5.3 million in bonuses), a figure well beyond what the Herons could realistically offer.

Now approaching 32, it is unlikely any European club would match that salary either, but Inter Miami’s position is no more favorable. At present, the only realistic path to landing Bernardo Silva would involve the club selling off several current players to free up enough GAM, while also clearing at least one of their Designated Player slots, all of which makes this particular deal look closer to a long shot than a done deal.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have seen their club schedules disrupted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, forcing the AFC to make significant adjustments. Al Nassr, Al Hilal and all clubs still competing in the AFC Champions League Elite, Two and Challenge League will now contest the knockout stages in single-leg ties.

Most of the AFC knockout matches had been scheduled as two-legged affairs in early March. Ronaldo’s Al Nassr were set to face Al Wasl on March 4 and March 11 in the Champions League Two quarterfinals, while Benzema’s Al Hilal were due to meet Al Sadd in the Champions League Elite Round of 16 on March 3 and March 10.

The security situation in the West Region forced the Asian Football Confederation to postpone all affected matches until further notice, with ties involving East Region clubs already settled. In a statement released on Tuesday, March 24, the governing body confirmed that, in order to manage the revised schedule, all remaining club competitions “will now be decided in single-leg ties at centralized venues.“

The measures, however, will not be applied uniformly across all three competitions. In the AFC Champions League Elite, Al Hilal and the remaining clubs will play their Round of 16 matches on April 13 and 14 at King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, one week before the Finals, which are scheduled to run from April 16 to 25.

For the AFC Champions League Two and AFC Challenge League, both in their 2025-26 editions, the timeline will differ. Currently at the quarterfinal stage, both that round and the semifinals will be decided in single-leg matches on April 19 and 22, though the centralized venues have yet to be confirmed.

A change of venues that could affect both Ronaldo and Benzema

Having topped their respective groups in the first phase, both Al Hilal and Al Nassr had earned the right to host the second legs of their knockout ties at home. The shift in both format and venue could prove costly for both clubs, whose home records in the 2025-26 season had been close to flawless.

In Al Hilal’s case, the club has played 17 home matches at Kingdom Arena across the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League Elite this season. Benzema‘s side has gone unbeaten at home, winning 14 of those games and drawing the other three.

A similar story applies to Ronaldo’s Al Nassr. The club has played 16 matches at Al Awwal Park between the Saudi Pro League and the Champions League Two, posting a near-perfect record of 15 wins and just one defeat, a 2-1 home loss to Al Qasidiya on January 8 in league play.

In Ronaldo’s case, if the centralized venues are also based in Saudi Arabia, it could work in Al Nassr’s favor, as head coach Jorge Jesus has noted that the Portuguese star tends to perform at a higher level on home soil. That said, being denied the chance to close out their respective series in front of their own fans still represents a meaningful disadvantage for both Al Nassr and Al Hilal.

The mood around Al-Nassr has shifted noticeably in recent days, and it begins with two names that define the club’s ambitions: Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane. The club, which often rises and falls on the shoulders of its stars, now finds itself navigating a delicate moment. And yet, those close to the team speak of renewed optimism fueled by encouraging medical reports, rising fitness levels, and a belief that both icons may soon light up the pitch again.

For Ronaldo, it has been a tense few weeks. His injury against Al-Fayha in late February sent shockwaves through both Saudi Arabia and Europe, prompting concerns that the 2026 World Cup countdown might be troubled by untimely physical setbacks.

Meanwhile, Mane’s ankle issue deprived Al-Nassr of its second-most decisive attacker, forcing tactical adjustments and raising internal questions about depth during a crucial stage of the season. Now, that unease appears to be fading.

The Senegalese’s recovery has taken a sharp turn for the better, leaving coaches and medical staff satisfied with his progress. CR7, working at high intensity far from Riyadh, is pushing himself with familiar determination in Madrid, signaling that his comeback may not be far off. Supporters have interpreted their recoveries as a sign that the club’s attacking heartbeat is slowly returning to rhythm.

But beneath the excitement lies a lingering mystery, a key question the club refuses to fully answer. Will the two stars be ready for the highly anticipated Al-Najma clash? According to Asharq Al-Awsat, Sadio Mane has officially been given the medical green light and is set to resume group training in the coming days, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s return date remains under evaluation depending on his response to treatment.

Positive boost as Mane steps back toward the pitch

The first major breakthrough for Al-Nassr arrived with Sadio Mane. Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper confirmed that the Senegalese star has made “significant progress” in his rehabilitation after the ankle injury that kept him out of the match against Al-Khaleej. The report states that “the medical team has given Sadio Mane the green light”, allowing him to begin working with the squad on a gradual basis over the next two days.

A similar report from Arriyadiyah highlighted that the 33-year-old completed fitness drills, including running laps and mobility work, marking his first outdoor session since the injury. He had not appeared in training since suffering the setback just 48 hours before the Al-Khaleej fixture, but internal evaluations now classify his situation as stable and ready for reintegration.

Meanwhile, defender Inigo Martinez continues to push through his rehabilitation program, hoping to reach acceptable fitness levels in time, although his timeline remains tighter and less predictable.

Ronaldo intensifies rehabilitation in Madrid

While Mane’s progress offers immediate impact, Cristiano Ronaldo’s recovery carries an entirely different weight. The Portuguese forward has spent the past few days training vigorously in Madrid, committing to an advanced rehabilitation plan aimed at accelerating his return. Asharq Al-Awsat noted that the club has not yet determined when Ronaldo will rejoin group training in Riyadh, keeping his precise comeback date under assessment.

The injury he suffered on February 28 sparked global concern, not only for club play but for Portugal’s World Cup preparations. His recent updates on social media, including the message “Getting better every day”, helped calm fears and reassured fans that his recovery was moving forward.

Medical assessments suggest that Ronaldo could return within one to two weeks, a timeline that places him firmly in contention for upcoming club commitments after the international break.

The story of Mohamed Salah has never followed a predictable path, and now, as his era at Liverpool reaches its final chapter, intrigue surrounds the next step in his extraordinary career. Even in the first wave of speculation, two possibilities instantly captured the public imagination: the allure of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League and the commercial pull of Lionel Messi’s MLS.

The announcement of his departure triggered the kind of global impact reserved only for the sport’s most revered icons. This is the man who reshaped Liverpool’s modern identity, who defined a generation of Premier League brilliance, and who forged a legacy so vast that the club itself described his career as “illustrious.”

Yet now, as Salah prepares to walk away from Anfield after nine unforgettable years, the soccer world stands poised for the next seismic move. For months now, rumors have swirled with increasing intensity. Is this the moment for a Middle Eastern homecoming? Would he choose the lights of America? Could a European giant tempt him one last time?

And just as the anticipation reaches its peak, the picture finally sharpens: the options on Salah’s table include offers from Saudi Arabia’s leading clubs, multiple proposals from Major League Soccer, and interest from several of Europe’s elite teams, forming the backdrop to a summer that may reshape global soccer’s balance of power.

All the clubs interested in Mohamed Salah

The race for the Egyptian superstar will define the upcoming transfer window. Multiple sources across Saudi Arabia, Europe, and North America have confirmed interest from a wide selection of clubs:

• Saudi Arabia: Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Qadsiah, NEOM
• MLS: San Diego FC
• Europe: Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona

The strongest pressure comes from the Saudi Pro League. Al-Ittihad, whose previous world-record bid was rejected, retains long-standing admiration and is viewed as a frontrunner. Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, clubs reshaped by recent superstar arrivals, are also preparing substantial offers.

Meanwhile, Al-Qadsiah and NEOM represent ambitious long-term Saudi visions, seeing Salah as a centerpiece for branding and legitimacy. In MLS, San Diego FC has explored signing Salah, though interest has not yet progressed to a formal offer. And in Europe, PSG and Barcelona have monitored developments, aware that such opportunities rarely present themselves.

Agent issues strong warning as transfer rumours intensify

As speculation exploded across Europe, the Middle East, and America, Salah’s agent Ramy Abbas intervened with one of the sharpest public statements of his career. His representative issued a stern warning to those claiming to know the truth of his next chapter, reminding the world that Salah has made no decision, and that no one else should pretend otherwise.

Speaking on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “We do not know where Mohamed will play next season. This also means that no one else knows. Beware of the click-wh*ring attention seekers.”

The future of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr could soon take an unexpected turn, as reports suggest that his teammate Joao Felix is attracting serious interest from Manchester United. With the English club actively exploring options to strengthen the attack, the Portuguese forward has emerged as a surprising yet intriguing candidate ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Felix’s resurgence in the Saudi Pro League has not gone unnoticed. After a turbulent spell across European soccer, the forward appears to have rediscovered his rhythm, delivering consistent performances and impressive numbers. His revival has sparked renewed attention from top clubs, particularly those looking for creative attacking solutions capable of operating across multiple positions.

At the same time, Manchester United is navigating a period of transition. With uncertainty surrounding key players and a desire to reshape the squad, the club is casting a wide net in search of reinforcements. Felix’s profile—technical, versatile, and experienced at the highest level—fits the mold of what the club is reportedly seeking, especially as it looks to re-establish itself among Europe’s elite.

Yet beyond the statistics and transfer speculation, there is another layer to this story—one centered on the player’s own stance. While negotiations, fees, and club strategies dominate headlines, the personal preference of the player often proves decisive in moves of this magnitude. In this case, that preference adds a compelling twist to an already developing narrative.

That twist becomes clearer when examining the player’s outlook more closely: Felix is reportedly excited by the prospect of moving to Old Trafford, a factor that could significantly influence how this transfer saga unfolds.

Manchester United’s interest takes shape

Manchester United’s pursuit of Felix highlights a clear intention to strengthen the attacking unit ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. With concerns over squad depth and potential departures, the club has identified multiple targets, and Felix has quickly risen on that list.

According to Fichajes, the Portuguese forward is now firmly on United’s radar, with discussions already underway behind the scenes. Reports indicate that a transfer fee of up to $70 million may be required, underlining both his current form and perceived market value.

The involvement of super-agent Jorge Mendes further signals that the situation is advancing. His role in facilitating major transfers across Europe suggests that this is more than speculative interest; it is a move with tangible momentum.

What Felix’s potential exit would mean for Ronaldo

Felix’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. After struggling for consistency at Chelsea and failing to secure a stable role during his return from Atletico Madrid, the forward made a bold switch to Al-Nassr.

That decision appears to have paid off. Felix has recorded 21 goals and 15 assists in 37 appearances, marking one of the most productive spells of his career. These numbers not only demonstrate his attacking output but also highlight his ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment.

For Al-Nassr, the potential departure of Felix would represent a significant shift in attacking dynamics. Playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, he has contributed to a productive partnership that blends experience with creativity.

Losing a player in such form could disrupt the club’s momentum, especially as it aims to compete domestically and internationally. At the same time, the financial and strategic implications of a high-profile sale may present opportunities for reinvestment.

The most important part of the season is coming for a big club like Real Madrid. But this year is different, with the World Cup also approaching. Antonio Rüdiger shared his thoughts on what Germany must change to become champions.

Rüdiger said in an interview with German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung: “We must go back to being a team that’s uncomfortable for others. We have a lot of talent and technique, everybody knows that. But talent alone doesn’t win World Cups. We must regain that mentality.”

For the defender, the mental side of the game seems to be the main point. Rüdiger said: “We must be so hard to face that rivals don’t even want to leave the tunnel. If we move that limit and each one is willing to do the dirty work for the other, then we would be extremely hard to defeat.”

Rüdiger on the criticism of his playing style

As most defenders probably do around the world, Rüdiger knows his job is partly to be feared. His style shows that every time he is on the field, but sometimes he has gone too far in that regard.

The main example that drew criticism toward his physical style came in a play against Getafe. In that match, which ended in a loss, Rüdiger went with his knee directly to Diego Rico’s face. Despite the impact, he did not face any consequences.

This has led to criticism because a red card can affect his team, and Rüdiger said: “I know there have been instances when I went over the line. That also influenced me in being even more concentrated. I don’t want to be a point of problem. I want to give stability and security. The debate reminds me I have a responsibility.”

Rüdiger on dealing with injuries

Rüdiger has not played every match he could have because he has dealt with injuries at different times in the past. Fortunately for Real Madrid, the defender has shown he is ready to play at full speed in the next matches.

The defender explained his current situation while reflecting on those issues: “I feel really good and I’m relieved that my medical treatments are over. Since August-September 2024, there’s always been something wrong. Things got worse this year in January, and I knew I had to take a break because the World Cup is coming up in the summer. But now I’m back at 100%.”

The spotlight surrounding Christian Pulisic has intensified in recent weeks, as the United States men’s national soccer team prepares for a crucial stretch ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With Mauricio Pochettino overseeing the national team and monitoring player form closely, questions have emerged about the American star’s recent struggles in front of goal. While his club, Milan, continues to rely on his influence, concerns about his scoring drought have sparked debate over his current level and long-term impact.

Despite maintaining a strong presence on the pitch, Pulisic’s numbers tell a more complicated story. The forward has gone an extended run without scoring in 2026, a stark contrast to his electric start to the season. Early performances suggested he would play a decisive role in both club and country campaigns, but injuries, tactical shifts, and inconsistency have disrupted that momentum.

Still, his importance has not diminished entirely: his ability to create space, link play, and influence attacking phases keeps him central to the Rossoneri’s system. The situation becomes even more intriguing when viewed through the lens of international soccer. With the World Cup approaching, every performance carries added weight. The USMNT is entering a defining preparation phase, using high-profile friendlies to assess form, chemistry, and tactical balance.

Pulisic remains a key figure in that setup, yet the lack of goals inevitably raises questions about whether he can deliver when it matters most on the global stage. At the same time, the narrative surrounding his form has not been entirely negative. Coaches and teammates continue to highlight his contributions beyond scoring, noting his intelligence, movement, and work rate.

However, the lingering concern remains: can he rediscover his finishing touch in time for the biggest tournament of his career? That underlying tension is best captured in a revealing statement from the player himself, one that offers insight into his mindset during this challenging period.

What did Pulisic say about his goal drought?

It is within this context that Pulisic finally addressed the situation directly, offering a composed and telling response to growing concerns. Speaking to Men’s Journal about his struggles in front of goal, he delivered a calm yet confident message: “I appreciate the support always. I’m not too concerned about it. I really do feel like I’m in a good spot and also playing well. So it’s been kind of an interesting time.”

The statement, subtle but significant, reflects a player unfazed by external pressure. Expanding further, he added, “I always get the feeling that you can be playing very poorly, and if you score a few goals, people will rave about you. And the opposite can be true.

“And you just have to go along. This is just how the career goes, ups and downs. I’m just trying to continue playing well, being in a good place physically, and feeling good. And that’s the most important thing“, he said.

Those 10 words—”This is just how the career goes, ups and downs”—reflect a broader belief within the USMNT setup that form is temporary, but quality is permanent. Pochettino’s system places value on intensity, adaptability, and collective effort, all qualities that the 27-year-old winger consistently brings to the squad.

Still influential despite the numbers

Despite the drought, Pulisic’s impact remains evident. He recently registered an assist in a 3-2 win over Torino, showcasing his vision and intelligence in the final third. His ability to read the game, create passing lanes, and link-play continues to make him a vital component of the team’s attacking structure.

Moreover, his early-season form—six goals in his first seven matches—serves as a reminder of his capabilities when fully fit and utilized effectively. The challenge now lies in rediscovering that rhythm during the decisive stretch of the campaign.

The rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid this season is not only defined by the La Liga title race, but also by the battle for the league’s top goalkeeper award. Thibaut Courtois and Joan Garcia are competing for that honor in a tight race.

During a recent interview with Diario AS, Garcia was asked about his chances of winning the Zamora Trophy, with the Real Madrid goalkeeper currently seen as his main rival. “Courtois is a top-class goalkeeper,” the Barcelona player said. “Everyone can see it. He’s been performing at the highest level for many years.”

The Zamora Trophy was created by Diario Marca in 1959 in honor of legendary goalkeeper Ricardo Zamora, who played for Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Espanyol. It is awarded each year to the best-performing goalkeeper in La Liga, based on the ratio of matches played to goals conceded. To qualify, players must meet a minimum number of appearances—currently set at 28—and play at least 60 minutes in each.

“Of course it would be an honor to win a Zamora,” Joan Garcia added in the same interview. However, he emphasized that the team’s objective of winning the league with Barcelona remains the priority: “But it would be even more special if it also helped us win La Liga.”

How the Zamora Trophy race stands this season

With 29 of 38 matches played in the 2025–26 La Liga season, the teams with the fewest goals conceded are Real Madrid (26), Barcelona (28), and Atletico Madrid (28). However, that does not necessarily reflect the Zamora race, as those teams have rotated goalkeepers at times during the season.

Thibaut Courtois has played 28 of Real Madrid’s 29 matches, conceding 24 goals for a 0.85 ratio. At Atletico Madrid, Jan Oblak holds a 0.96 average after allowing 25 goals in 26 matches. The best numbers so far belong to Joan Garcia (0.73), with 17 goals conceded in 23 matches, though he has the fewest appearances and little margin for error if he hopes to reach the 28-match threshold required for eligibility.

Top winners of the Zamora Trophy

In this year’s race, Joan Garcia faces the added challenge of being the only one among the top contenders who has never won the award. Jan Oblak holds the all-time record with six Zamora trophies since 2016, while Thibaut Courtois has won three. Antoni Ramallets and Victor Valdes each stand out with five titles apiece.

Lionel Messi has arrived in Argentina to take part in the March international window friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia. In a message that ignited excitement for the 2026 World Cup among fans, Messi made clear that the “dream remains intact.“

After scoring a free kick in Inter Miami’s most recent win against NYCFC, Lionel Messi touched down in Argentina on Tuesday morning at Ezeiza International Airport to join the national team. Attention now turns to the upcoming friendlies, first against Mauritania on Friday, March 27, and then against Zambia on Tuesday, March 31.

Upon arriving at Argentina‘s training camp, Messi posted on Instagram in a message that quickly caught the attention of fans. “The dream remains intact. Together again,” wrote the Argentine star, sharing photos from his arrival ahead of what will be the last games on home soil before the 2026 World Cup.

With Monday as the squad’s only rest day, Argentina will hold three training sessions before the first friendly, scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with head coach Lionel Scaloni set to hold his customary pre-match press conference on that final day.

While facing two African sides ranked 91st and 115th in the FIFA standings will not pose a major test on paper, the international window will give several players a chance to stake their claim for a spot at the 2026 World Cup. For Messi, who is expected to feature in both games, it will also serve as a farewell to the home fans, with questions mounting over whether these could be his final appearances on Argentine soil.

Argentina and a squad that underwent several changes

With Lionel Messi as the focal point of the group, head coach Scaloni used this call-up to fine-tune his options ahead of the 2026 World Cup, naming a 28-man roster with an eye on the final picture. However, a series of key absences and late changes disrupted his original plans.

Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan), Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis) and Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United), all important figures for Scaloni, are the most notable absentees due to injury. In response, the head coach expanded the roster from 28 to 30 players by adding Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono and RC Strasbourg’s Joaquin Panichelli.

Further disruption came when defenders Leonardo Balerdi and Gonzalo Montiel picked up late injuries, prompting Scaloni to call up Lucas Martinez Quarta and Agustin Giay as replacements.

Amid a season full of injuries and inconsistencies, Real Madrid have managed to remain one of the best teams in the world under Álvaro Arbeloa. While his continuity is highly uncertain due to his limited experience, the Spaniard is reportedly gaining support from the squad for his permanent role due to his significant impact in the dressing room.

According to Diario Marca, Real Madrid squad supports Álvaro Arbeloa’s continuity as permanent head coach for next season. While the team has faced difficulties throughout the campaign, his leadership and playing ideas are highly appreciated within the dressing room. In addition, the Spaniard has managed to transform the locker room atmosphere, motivating the squad game after game.

Since his arrival, Arbeloa has even installed a grey sofa in his office, regularly inviting players in to get to know them better. Through this approach, he has earned the backing of key figures such as Vinícius Jr, Federico Valverde, Thibaut Courtois, Antonio Rudiger and Aurelien Tchouameni as he is defends them in public, but remains direct and honest in private, reports Diario Marca.

Despite this, Real Madrid’s front office have not yet decided whether they will back Álvaro Arbeloa for next season. However, he could gain further support if he leads the team to a UEFA Champions League title or a LaLiga title. While this seemed unlikely just a few weeks ago, the team has improved its competitiveness, securing a place in the quarterfinals of Europe’s top competition.

Report: Real Madrid lose two main head coach candidates

Following Xabi Alonso’s departure and Álvaro Arbeloa’s lack of experience, Real Madrid have reportedly made it a priority to bring in a coach with a proven track record and extensive experience. While several names have been mentioned, the focus has narrowed to two main candidates: Zinedine Zidane and Jürgen Klopp. However, both coaches appear to be heading elsewhere, paving the way for Arbeloa to remain in charge.

While Los Blancos explored a possible return for Zidane, he is reportedly aiming to become France’s head coach after the 2026 World Cup. Alongside him, Jürgen Klopp has denied any contact with Real Madrid, making it clear he wants to remain at Red Bull as Head of Global Soccer. As a result, names such as Unai Emery, Mauricio Pochettino, and Enzo Maresca have been mentioned, but none have gained consensus.

Barcelona always look for the best players on the market when they identify someone they like. However, they are often outbid because of their financial situation, even when players are open to joining them. That could be the case with Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso, whose price tag may leave Hansi Flick frustrated.

It will not be cheap for Barcelona if they want to buy the left back. Juventus have reportedly put a $50 million price tag on him for any interested club, as he remains an important player for the team, according to Marca.

The idea of replacing Alejandro Balde has grown lately, as the young player has not been able to provide much security on the left side. Cambiaso has a contract with Juventus for three more years, so Barcelona will not be able to get him cheaply.

Cambiaso’s career

Cambiaso has established himself at a major Italian club like Juventus. However, the journey was not easy for the 26-year-old defender. His career includes loans to smaller clubs such as Albissola, Savona and Alessandria, where he played in Serie D and Serie C.

He was also loaned to Empoli to play a few matches in Serie B before returning to his parent club, Genoa. Another loan spell at Bologna followed, helping him become a more complete player before taking a major step forward.

Curiously, the club where he played the most is the one where he has performed best so far, as he joined Juventus in 2023 with much more experience. He established himself as a promising player ready to become a reliable option, and in 2024 he made his debut for Italy, where he has already collected 19 appearances.

More options for the defense

Spanish reports suggest Cambiaso is Flick’s preferred target for the next transfer window. However, Barcelona must also consider options that fit more comfortably within their budget, as Gerard Martín’s future is uncertain, which forces the club to have backup plans for the left side of the defense.

Alessandro Bastoni is another importante target despite his price, and the player who fits that mold perfectly is Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi, as the center back could arrive on a free transfer.

There’s little debate that Christian Pulisic is already one of the most important players in U.S. soccer history—even at just 27 years old, with plenty of his career still ahead of him. He acknowledged as much himself, placing his name among the country’s all-time greats.

During a recent interview with Men’s Journal ahead of the FIFA international break, which will see the United States men’s national team face Belgium and Portugal, Pulisic was asked to name his Mount Rushmore—his four greatest players in U.S. soccer history.

“Am I not allowed to include myself?” the AC Milan forward said with a laugh. After the interviewer responded positively, the 27-year-old forward didn’t hesitate. “Okay, I would put myself,” he said.

“I’d definitely put Clint (Dempsey) on and then I’d probably put Landon (Donovan),” Pulisic added, referencing two players who defined an era for the USMNT and Major League Soccer, while also enjoying successful careers in Europe.

After taking a few moments to think it over, Christian added another active player—and a current international teammate. “For the last spot, let’s put Weston (McKennie) on there. That’s my guy. So let’s put him,” Pulisic concluded.

Pulisic has earned his place in U.S. soccer history

While including himself on his Mount Rushmore may come as a surprise to some, Christian Pulisic has built a résumé worthy of that recognition. At just 27, he has put together a European career unmatched by any of his compatriots.

Although other U.S.-born players have had standout spells in top leagues—such as Clint Dempsey in the Premier League—none have reached the same level of global recognition Pulisic enjoys today.

He first broke through at Borussia Dortmund and later starred for Chelsea, before reaching arguably his best form with AC Milan. In Italy, he has established himself as one of the most decisive players in Serie A, even in a season where injuries have limited his consistency.

Pulisic is the most expensive American player of all time

Another indicator of Christian Pulisic’s impact on American soccer is his market value. He remains the most expensive U.S. player of all time and even appears twice among the highest transfer fees involving American players.

The USMNT star still tops the list thanks to the $65 million Chelsea paid Borussia Dortmund for him in 2019, surpassing the $46 million Bayer Leverkusen invested in Malik Tillman in 2025. Meanwhile, Pulisic’s 2023 transfer from Chelsea to AC Milan for $24.2 million ranks sixth on the all-time list.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, AC Milan have been known for their solid midfield. However, they have set their sights on Leon Goretzka as the main target, looking for a definitive offensive and defensive boost. Amid criticism of his current form at Bayern Munich, the German is reportedly seen as the ‘perfect fit’ for Massimiliano Allegri, but one issue keeps jeopardizing his arrival.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Leon Goretzka is emerging as AC Milan’s top priority, as he fits perfectly the profile sought by Allegri and would arrive as free agent from Bayern Munich. However, they face a major issue, as the German is reportedly seeking a salary of €9 million plus bonuses, while the Rossoneri are willing to offer €6–7 million per season along with a signing bonus.

While salary differences remain, AC Milan remain hopeful of convincing the German to join. According to Christian Falk, via CFBayern, Goretzka remains quite tempted by the prospect of playing in Serie A, so the Rossoneri could continue to push for his signing. However, the 31-year-old star has also attracted interest from Arsenal, complicating matters for the Italian side.

Leon Goretzka’s potential arrival would not replace Luka Modric’s role, as he would instead take over Youssouf Fofana’s current position, contributing as a box-to-box midfielder. With this, the Rossoneri would look to gain much more presence in attack—something they have lacked since Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s absence due to injury.

Goretzka’s form at Bayern Munich could pose a risk for AC Milan

Leon Goretzka once established as one of Bayern Munich’s best players, becoming an undisputed starter. However, he has lost importance following Vincent Kompany’s arrival, being overtaken by Aleksandar Pavlović. In addition, the German is no longer that key offensive contributor, which makes a potential move to AC Milan a rather risky bet.

With 31 years old, the German would be expected to deliver an immediate impact at the Rossoneri—something he has not consistently provided at Bayern in recent seasons. Moreover, coach Allegri would likely have to bench either Ruben Loftus-Cheek or Fofana, both in strong form, to accommodate Goretzka, whose current level remains a significant question mark.

If Allegri manages to bring out the best in Leon Goretzka, Samuele Ricci would become the last option in the rotation, making his departure likely despite being one of Italy’s most promising talents. Only Modric’s departure could ensure playing time for the 24-year-old star, as he could compete with Jashari. Since renewing the Croatian’s contract is a priority, this option seems quite unlikely.

Antoine Griezmann will finally be leaving Atletico Madrid after 10 seasons with the club, but not before giving everything he has to send them out on the highest note possible. Set to join Orlando City at the start of next season, Griezmann has made clear his ambition to push for the UEFA Champions League with the Colchoneros before he goes.

After traveling to Florida to finalize the details, Orlando City officially announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Tuesday. With the 2025-26 season still ongoing, the MLS club confirmed that the move will be completed in July 2026 on a deal running through the 2027-28 season with an option for one additional year, bringing his European career to a close.

With the deal made official, Griezmann took to social media to post a heartfelt message to Atletico fans. “It isn’t easy to find the words for what I’m feeling, because this club is my home and you are my family. It has been an incredible journey, filled with unforgettable matches, goals, joy, and a passion that only those of us who feel ‘Atleti’ can truly understand,” he wrote on Instagram.

Rather than simply saying goodbye, the French striker turned his focus to the months ahead and the chance to leave on the highest possible note, with the Champions League firmly in his sights: “But for now, let’s leave the future in the future—because I am not leaving yet. I still have months left in this shirt; months to give my life for this club at our stadium and away from home, to lift that Copa del Rey, and to dream of going as far as possible in the Champions League.“

Despite Orlando City‘s push to secure his signing in the primary 2026 MLS window, Atletico’s run to the Copa del Rey final made both the club and Griezmann reluctant to finalize the move mid-season. Now into the quarterfinal stage of the Champions League, roughly five games away from a potential title, Griezmann has added European glory to what he described as his “Last Dance” with the club in his post.

“We still have many opportunities ahead of us to find happiness. I want every minute I have left here to be a tribute to this crest. The best is yet to come. We will do it as we always have: together. My present remains Red and White until the very last breath of this 2026 season. And my heart will be forever. Aúpa Atleti,” Griezmann’s message concluded.

Can Atletico go all the way in the Champions League?

Rather than framing it as a lifelong dream of finally winning the Champions League, a trophy that has eluded him throughout his career, Griezmann took a measured approach, expressing the desire to go “as far as possible” in the competition. With Atletico still in the thick of the Copa del Rey race as well, advancing deep into the European stage will be far from a walk in the park.

After eliminating Tottenham Hotspur in a tie that finished 7-5 on aggregate, Atletico will face Barcelona in the quarterfinals. The first leg is scheduled at Camp Nou on April 8, with the return leg set for April 14 at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

Should Atletico manage to get past one of the tournament’s top contenders like Barcelona, they would face the winner of Arsenal vs. Sporting CP in the semifinals. The Gunners, currently leading the Premier League, enter that tie as heavy favorites, and have been the stingiest defense in the competition this season, conceding just five goals across 10 Champions League matches.

As for the final, any club emerging from the other side of the bracket would pose a serious threat to Atletico, with PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich all still in contention. For Griezmann personally, the stakes could not be higher: he was on the pitch for Atletico’s last Champions League final appearance in 2016, a match Real Madrid claimed in a penalty shootout after Griezmann had missed a penalty during regular time, and now, a decade later, the stage is set for one of soccer’s great stories to find its ending.

Teams rarely make major moves at the start of the year. Being in the middle of the season means most competitive clubs are already settled by then, but Barcelona made a strong signing in João Cancelo’s loan from Al-Hilal.

The Portuguese defender arrived for free after pushing for the move to Spain, even if only temporarily. Barcelona seem ready to keep him for next season too, partly because he can offer versatility at the back.

However, it may not be that simple, as local reports suggest Al-Hilal will not let him go easily. Even if he did not have much of a role there, the fee Barcelona may be asked to pay would be $15 million. While that figure could discourage them from keeping Cancelo next summer, there is still plenty of time to negotiate for the experienced player.

Hansi Flick was not very firm on Cancelo’s stay

Before Sunday’s victory against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga, Hansi Flick had given a press conference touching on several topics. One of them was the future of players like Cancelo and Marcus Rashford.

With still too much to happen before Barcelona have to decide whether to keep these players, it was somewhat surprising that the manager was not more certain. He may want to keep them if the conditions are right.

Flick has liked what he has seen from them, but he is not ready to confirm they will stay with the team: “We’ll talk at the end of the season and we’ll see what happens. Now it’s not the time to say, ‘I want this player’ or ‘I don’t want this player.’ Anything can happen.”

Cancelo’s season with Barcelona

Cancelo arrived at Barcelona last January to give Flick more versatility at the back. With Jules Koundé playing too many matches and Alejandro Balde showing some inconsistency, the Portuguese has filled those roles. His season includes seven La Liga matches and one goal, three in the Copa del Rey and two in the Champions League, for a total of a dozen appearances for the club.

Mohamed Salah has announced that he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the 2025-26 season in an emotional video posted to his social media accounts. With the announcement, the Egyptian star brings to a close a nine-year stint with the club, one in which he claimed numerous trophies and rewrote several records.

On Tuesday, March 24, Salah released a two-minute video revealing he had made the decision to leave Liverpool. Throughout the announcement, however, the forward did not directly address the reasons behind his decision, but still thanked the support of the fans over the years at Anfield.

The news lands as a significant shock, given that Salah came extremely close to leaving Liverpool last season amid a contract dispute between the player and the club. Despite eventually signing a new deal through June 2027, the Egyptian will be cutting his time at Merseyside short by a year, with several clubs already circling.

Salah and a legacy written at Liverpool and the Premier League

Liverpool paid 42 million euros to AS Roma back in June 2017 to bring in Mohamed Salah, and from that moment on, the Egyptian, once cast aside by Chelsea, began writing his legacy. His records left a mark not only at Liverpool, but across the entire history of the Premier League.

Trophies won with Liverpool

Since arriving at Merseyside, Mohamed Salah has lifted nine trophies with Liverpool, helping restore the club’s status as a powerhouse both in England and in Europe, and finally ending their long league title drought with the 2019-20 championship. The full breakdown of Salah’s honors with the Reds is as follows:

• 2 Premier League: 2019-20, 2024-25
• 1 UEFA Champions League: 2018-19
• 1 FIFA Club World Cup: 2019
• 1 UEFA Super Cup: 2019
• 1 FA Cup: 2021-22
• 2 EFL Cup / League Cup: 2021-22, 2023-24
• 1 FA Community Shield: 2022-23

Records with Liverpool

Despite playing primarily as a right winger who only occasionally stepped into a center forward role, Mohamed Salah has shattered records at Liverpool both as a scorer and a creator. In 435 appearances to date, he has scored 255 goals and contributed 122 assists, with the following marks to his name:

• Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League (191 goals).
• Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the UEFA Champions League (50 goals) and across all European competition (56 goals).
• First Liverpool player to score 20 or more goals in eight consecutive seasons (2017-18 through 2024-25).
• Most goals scored in a debut season with Liverpool across all competitions (44 goals).
• Fastest player to reach 100 goals for Liverpool (151 appearances).
• Liverpool’s all-time leading assist provider in the Premier League (93 assists).

Salah’s records in the Premier League

Salah not only revitalized Liverpool but also raised the bar across several categories in Premier League history. Among those records are the following:

• Premier League’s all-time leading foreign goalscorer and fourth on the overall list (191 goals).
• Most goal involvements in a single 38-game Premier League season (47 goals and assists combined).
• All-time highest-scoring African player in Premier League history.
• Only player to register 10 or more goals and 10 or more assists in six separate Premier League seasons.
• Most goals scored on Premier League opening day (10).

Gonzalo Montiel’s injury forced Lionel Scaloni to abruptly change his plans and call up Agustin Giay for the matches against Mauritania and Zambia during the FIFA March international break, which has already proven problematic for Argentina following the cancellation of the Finalissima against Spain.

“Palmeiras player Agustin Giay has been added to the squad for the upcoming friendlies,” Argentina announced via their official social media accounts on Tuesday. The 22-year-old defender will get his first opportunity with the senior national team after impressing with San Lorenzo in the Argentine Liga Profesional and with Palmeiras in Brazil’s Serie A.

The need for a last-minute addition arose after Gonzalo Montiel suffered a muscle injury on Sunday, after playing 90 minutes –and scoring a goal- in River Plate’s 2–0 win over Estudiantes de Rio Cuarto.

Montiel’s absence left Argentina with just one natural right-back, Nahuel Molina, making another call-up at the position necessary. With Juan Foyth ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to a ruptured Achilles tendon just two months ago, Giay emerged as a logical option thanks to his strong form at Palmeiras, where he has made 12 appearances — seven as a starter — this season.

All Argentina absences for the March FIFA break

The March international break has proven to be a headache for Argentina. The controversies that ultimately led to the cancellation of the Finalissima against Spain were just the beginning, followed by difficulties in securing opponents for the friendlies in Buenos Aires.

With Mauritania and Zambia confirmed as opponents for March 27 and 31, respectively, Lionel Scaloni’s focus shifted to assembling the squad amid a growing list of injuries. From the outset, Lisandro Martinez, Giovani Lo Celso, and Lautaro Martinez were ruled out, with more names added in the following days.

Leonardo Balerdi was also sidelined after suffering an injury following Olympique Marseille’s match against Lille OSC in Ligue 1. The defender, primarily a center-back, can also play at right-back — something that would have been useful following Montiel’s injury.

Scaloni forced into four additional call-ups

Argentina announced their initial 28-man squad list for the March fixtures on March 18. Since then, head coach Lionel Scaloni has been forced to make four additions to address last-minute issues.

The first players added were Franco Mastantuono, a winger from Real Madrid, and Joaquin Panichelli, a striker from RC Strasbourg. Later, Leonardo Balerdi’s injury led to the inclusion of Lucas Martinez Quarta from River Plate, while Agustin Giay became the latest addition following Gonzalo Montiel’s withdrawal.

Marcus Rashford has had a promising impact at Barcelona, netting 10 goals and contributing 13 assists. Nonetheless, the Englishman has experienced a dip in his performance, going nearly one month without making an impact. Moreover, the Blaugranas are reportedly targeting Jan Virgili’s comeback after his impressive impact and promising potential at RCD Mallorca, complicating the 28-year-old’s future.

Despite his drop in form, Barcelona remain interested in signing Marcus Rashford. However, they do not consider the €30 million buy clause to be an ideal price, and are therefore looking to reduce that figure. Given his impact, Manchester United are reportedly unwilling to negotiate a lower fee. For this reason, the return of Jan Virgili is supposedly gaining significant momentum.

According to José Álvarez via El Chiringuito TV, the Blaugranas are targeting Jan Virgili, who is currently shining at RCD Mallorca, delivering six assists. At just 19 years old, the Spaniard is considered a potential replacement for Raphinha. With 40% of his sale rights and the right of first refusal, Barcelona could have an easy path to signing him.

While Virgili’s potential return gains momentum, he might not match Marcus Rashford’s scoring prowess. For this reason, the Spanish side has not ruled out a permanent transfer for the Englishman, as he will provide an immediate impact. Nonetheless, Barcelona reportedly consider the 19-year-old winger as a key prospect for the future, contributing off the bench as Raphinha’s replacement.

Not Virgili or Rashford: Barcelona reportedly have other priorities

While the continuity of Marcus Rashford or the return of Jan Virgili are hot topics in FC Barcelona, they reportedly maintain other priorities for the transfer market. With defensive and scoring issues, the Blaugrana have supposedly decided to target a left-sided defender and a center forward, with two clear objectives.

According to Diario Sport, Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan has emerged as the favorite to strengthen the defense, with his transfer valued at €60 million. Alongside the Italian, Barcelona are prioritizing the signing of Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid, and are willing to listen to offers for Ferran Torres in order to finance the deal.

After focusing their resources on both signings, the Blaugrana are reportedly pushing Manchester United for another loan move for Rashford, reports Ben Jacobs via X. In addition, they are keeping Virgili as an option for 2027, as they want his development to continue at RCD Mallorca. However, they risk losing the 19-year-old winger, as his €25 million release clause is attracting interest from several clubs ahead of the summer of 2026.

Following the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, Rafael Leão has faced serious difficulties readapting at AC Milan. While he stands as the team’s top scorer, he has faced significant criticism for not shining as he did in previous seasons. In response, club legend Andriy Shevchenko has stepped forward to defend the Portuguese player, pointing out that he is not playing in his natural position.

“He’s not a striker, he’s not playing in his natural position right now. He’s been asked to play as a forward: In some games he’s done well, in others less so. But to judge him in that role, you need to give him time. Of course, it also depends on whether he has the willingness to help the team he’s the only one who can play that role,” Shevchenko said, via Legends Trophy.

With Santiago Giménez injury, and the poor form of Christopher Nkunku and Niclas Füllkrug, Leão has been deployed as a center forward for the Rossoneri. Having dribble and pace as his main strengths, he has struggled to find his best version. However, he has managed to remain the most important player in AC Milan‘s attack, so the criticism could be considered unfair.

While many point to Leão’s underwhelming form, others blame a poor tactical approach from Massimiliano Allegri. Rather than prioritizing the Portuguese’s optimal role, the head coach has chosen to persist with a two-striker system, despite not having any forwards in top condition. Despite the criticism, Rafael has managed to score 10 goals, making him the team’s top scorer amid the dip in form of Christian Pulisic.

AC Milan’s Allegri may bet for a tactical change, boosting Leao

Massimiliano Allegri has consistently opted for a 3-5-2 system, prioritizing defensive solidity and stability in midfield. However, the coach has already experimented with shifting to a 4-3-3 in several matches, such as the previous game against Torino in the second half. Following positive results, the Italian coach is reportedly open to making this change permanent, boosting Rafael Leão’s performances.

According to Pedro Mazzara via MilanNews.it, Allegri would be willing to test the 4-3-3 more frequently. With this, Rafael Leão could regain prominence in his best position, left wing. Despite the tactical shift, the midfield would remain unchanged: Adrien Rabiot, Luka Modrić, and Youssouf Fofana. However, they would drop a defender, relying on the Portuguese winger and Christian Pulisic on the flanks.

Far from being just a minor tweak, this could revitalize Rafael Leão’s performances, bringing him closer to his best version. With this, the Portuguese winger could shine again, recovering his dribbling input and ending constant criticism. Alongside him, Santiago Giménez could also receive a great opportunity, as he returns from injury and is the only natural striker, along with Füllkrug.

Orlando City officially announced the signing of Antoine Griezmann on Tuesday, with the French star set to join Major League Soccer after the conclusion of the 2025–26 European season. He will join Lionel Messi and Thomas Muller as one of the FIFA World Cup winners to play in the league.

Griezmann becomes the 20th player to compete in MLS after previously winning the World Cup. He achieved that honor at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he, alongside Kylian Mbappe, led France to a convincing victory over Croatia in the final.

During that triumph, the Atletico Madrid forward played a pivotal role with four goals and four assists, earning the Silver Boot as the tournament’s second-leading scorer, recognition as its top assist provider, and the Bronze Ball as the third-best player—behind only Luka Modric and Eden Hazard.

Interestingly, that same France squad also featured another World Cup winner who later moved to MLS: Hugo Lloris. The goalkeeper joined Los Angeles FC in 2024 from Tottenham Hotspur and has since made 99 appearances across all competitions.

Active World Cup winners in MLS

Once he joins Orlando City SC this summer, Antoine Griezmann will become the fifth active player competing in MLS with a World Cup title. His former France teammate Hugo Lloris is also part of that select group, while Thomas Muller—who won the 2014 World Cup with Germany—now stars for Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

At Inter Miami are the other two. Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul were crowned champions with Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, defeating Griezmann and Lloris in the final. They are also teammates at club level, with Messi joining the Herons in the summer of 2023 and De Paul arriving in mid-2025.

All World Cup winners to play in MLS

Beyond the four players currently active in MLS, another 15 World Cup winners have played in the league over the past decades, adding quality and prestige to a competition that continues to grow in stature.

The first World Cup winner to play in MLS was Branco, who joined MetroStars in 1997 after winning the 1994 World Cup with Brazil. That same club later featured German legend Lothar Matthaus in 2000. The team eventually rebranded as New York Red Bulls and continued to attract high-profile talent, including Youri Djorkaeff and Thierry Henry, both World Cup winners with France. From the same country, Blaise Matuidi (Inter Miami) and Olivier Giroud (LAFC) also made their way to MLS in later years.

Among Brazilian World Cup winners to play in MLS are Denilson (FC Dallas), Kleberson (Philadelphia Union), and Kaka (Orlando City). They are joined by Italian stars Alessandro Nesta (CF Montreal) and Andrea Pirlo (New York City FC), as well as Spanish standouts David Villa (NYCFC) and Sergio Busquets (Inter Miami). Germany’s Bastian Schweinsteiger (Chicago Fire) also featured in the league.

The final case deserves special mention. Thiago Almada was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, alongside Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul. What makes his case unique is that he lifted the trophy while still a player for Atlanta United FC, making him the only player in history to win the World Cup while playing in MLS.

Nico Schlotterbeck has established as Borussia Dortmund’s best player, leading the defensive line. With his contract set to expire in 2027, both Real Madrid and Barcelona had reportedly made him a priority for the 2026–27 season. However, the German is now said to be close to renewing his contract, effectively shutting down any potential move to LaLiga this summer.

According to BILD, Nico Schlotterbeck is close to renewing his contract with Borussia Dortmund, extending his deal until 2031. With this, the German would hold the longest contract at the club. In addition, he would earn a salary of up to €14 million per season, including bonuses, making it one of the highest wages in the squad.

While this represents a setback for Real Madrid and Barcelona, Schlotterbeck has chosen to follow a formula similar to Dayot Upamecano’s at Bayern Munich. As part of his new deal, the German defender may include a release clause that can be activated from the summer of 2027, valued at €60 million, thereby leaving the door open for a future move away from Borussia Dortmund.

Despite opening the door to a potential exit, the German could cease to be a target for Real Madrid or Barcelona. Following his defensive struggles this season, both clubs are looking to reinforce their backlines in the summer of 2026, which could rule out a move for Schlotterbeck. Additionally, Los Blancos and the Blaugranas are already believed to have other targets in mind.

Report: Real Madrid chase two defensive reinforcements

Looking ahead to the 2026-27 season, Real Madrid are set to lose David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, as their contracts expire at the end of the season. Given the reported renewal of Nico Schlotterbeck, they have decided to pursue defensive reinforcements, seeking to improve the roster’s performance. As a result, Jacobo Ramon of Como 1907 and Ibrahima Konate, a free agent, have emerged as the new targets.

According to Matteo Moretto, Los Blancos are pleased with Jacobo Ramón’s development and are considering a return in the summer of 2026 through his €8 million buy-back clause. However, they are in no rush, as they also hold buy-back options in 2027 for €9 million and in 2028 for €10 million. Additionally, the Spaniard prioritizes a return to Real Madrid.

Alongside the young Spaniard, Ibrahima Konaté remains a clear target for Real Madrid, reports Defensa Central. With significant experience, he would arrive to provide immediate impact, but his salary demands are complicating the move. The Frenchman is reportedly asking for £200,000 per week on a five-year contract, along with a €15–18 million signing bonus.

Alessandro Bastoni supposedly emerges as Barcelona’s main target

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Nico Schlotterbeck was reportedly emerging as a priority for head coach Hansi Flick. However, Real Madrid’s growing interest and his proximity to a contract renewal led to him being ruled out. As a result, Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni has emerged as Barcelona’s main target, as per Diario Sport.

With a contract running until 2028, the Italian defender is valued at around €60 million, as reported by Diario Sport. Despite the high price, the Blaugranas consider him the ideal player to lead the defense due to his experience and strong ball-playing ability. For this reason, the German would be discarded, prioritizing Bastoni, who is reportedly keen on joining the Spanish side.

The soccer world held its breath when Cristiano Ronaldo went down with an injury against Al-Fayha on February 28, raising immediate concerns about his availability for the biggest tournament on the horizon. With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, every update surrounding the iconic forward has been closely monitored, especially given his importance to both Al-Nassr and Portugal.

In recent days, however, a sense of cautious optimism has begun to replace anxiety. Ronaldo has broken his silence with a brief but meaningful update, offering a glimpse into his recovery process. While the message itself was short, its impact was significant, calming fears that the injury could derail his final World Cup appearance.

The timing of this update could not be more crucial. Portugal is entering a decisive phase of preparation, with international friendlies and squad selections shaping the final roster. Ronaldo’s absence from the latest call-up raised eyebrows, but it also highlighted a broader strategy focused on long-term fitness rather than short-term gains.

At club level, the situation is equally serious. Al-Nassr continues its path towards a historic double with Ronaldo as its primary attacking force, and his return could prove decisive in the closing stretch of the season. Now, he seems to have eased any concerns, stating “Getting better every day” on social media.

Positive sign amid injury concerns

Ronaldo’s recovery began after he suffered a hamstring injury in late February, forcing him to step away from action for both club and country. The setback ruled him out of key fixtures, including Portugal’s friendlies against Mexico and the United States, but recent developments suggest that the situation is far from serious.

The forward shared images of his rehabilitation routine, showing him engaged in intensive gym work, including leg-strengthening exercises and upper-body training. These visuals, combined with his short message, reassured fans that progress is being made behind the scenes. Supporters quickly reacted with enthusiasm, interpreting the update as a clear indication that their captain remains on track for a timely return.

Recovery timeline and expected return

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez recently moved swiftly to dismiss any lingering doubts about the 41-year-old’s availability for the World Cup. “No, he’s not in danger. It’s a minor muscle injury,” Martinez stated. He further emphasized the player’s condition, adding, “Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he’s in great shape.”

Medical assessments suggest that Ronaldo could return within one to two weeks, placing him firmly on track for upcoming Saudi Pro League fixtures after the FIFA break. This timeline means the veteran forward may soon rejoin Al-Nassr, potentially returning on April 3 against Al-Najma. Such a comeback would not only boost his club but also provide valuable match fitness ahead of the World Cup.

The arrival of another global superstar in Major League Soccer has taken center stage, as Lionel Messi is set to be joined in the United States by yet another iconic name from European soccer. Antoine Griezmann has officially completed a move to Orlando City, signaling a major statement of intent from the American club. However, while the headlines celebrate the blockbuster reunion of La Liga and World Cup winners’ pedigree in MLS, there remains an intriguing layer beneath the surface that adds mystery to the deal.

For Orlando, the signing represents more than just a high-profile acquisition; it is a declaration of ambition. The MLS side has been eager to elevate its global standing, and bringing in a player of Griezmann’s stature achieves exactly that. With Messi already transforming the league’s visibility at Inter Miami, the addition of another decorated European star strengthens the narrative of MLS as a growing destination for elite talent.

Griezmann’s move also carries emotional and historical weight. Having spent the majority of his career dominating Spanish soccer with Atletico Madrid, alongside spells at Barcelona and Real Sociedad, the Frenchman leaves behind a legacy built on consistency, creativity, and decisive moments. His journey from La Liga to MLS mirrors a broader trend of legendary players choosing the United States as the stage for their next chapter.

At first glance, the transfer appears straightforward: a world-class forward joins an ambitious club, ready to make an immediate impact. Yet, behind the excitement lies a crucial detail that reshapes expectations and adds a layer of suspense to the entire situation. The twist, however, is that Griezmann will not immediately join Orlando City. He will remain with Atletico Madrid and only link up with his new club in July 2026, when the summer transfer window opens.

Landmark signing for Orlando City

Orlando City confirmed the signing of Griezmann on a two-year Designated Player contract running through the 2027-28 season, with an option for an additional year. The deal, while subject to standard procedures such as a medical and visa approval, is already being hailed as transformative.

“Bringing Antoine to Orlando is a landmark moment not only for our club, but for our city, our supporters and for Major League Soccer,” said club owner Mark Wilf. “He is one of the most gifted, accomplished and influential players of his generation.” This move firmly places Orlando among the league’s most ambitious projects, reinforcing its commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.

Griezmann’s vision for a new chapter and what it represents

Despite the delayed arrival, Griezmann has already expressed excitement about his future in Orlando. “I am very excited to begin this next chapter of my career with Orlando City,” he said. “From my first conversations with the club, I could feel a strong ambition and a clear vision for the future.” His words highlight a mutual alignment between player and club, both driven by ambition and the desire to achieve something significant in MLS.

The 35-year-old forward’s move underscores MLS’ growing appeal as a destination for world-class players. Following Messi’s arrival, the league continues to attract global attention, blending star power with competitive growth.

Kylian Mbappé started the 2025–26 season in top form, going head-to-head with Harry Kane for the European Golden Boot. Despite this, he was dealing with serious knee problems since December 2025. While he has returned to the field, Real Madrid reportedly put his knee at risk by misdiagnosing his injury. However, the 27-year-old striker decided to deny the information, defending los Blancos.

According to Daniel Riolo, via RMC Sport, Mbappé had been playing through various injuries since December 2025, but Real Madrid classified his physical issues as something that could be managed on a game-by-game basis. As a result, he pushed his knee beyond its limits and putting it at risk. Consequently, he consulted a Parisian knee specialist and followed a special muscle-building program to resolve his issues.

Far from confirming Riolo’s report, Kylian Mbappé gave a positive update on his knee and criticized the constant rumors. “My knee is fine. It’s getting better. Things are going pretty well and I know there was a lot of speculation about it and false things were said… It’s the life of a top athlete, and we’re used to people saying things without verifying them or having any basis in fact,” he said, via Diario AS.

Even though he had claimed that his recovery was surrounded by fake news, Mbappé admitted that he had recovered away from Real Madrid: “I have recovered 100 per cent. I had the opportunity to receive a thorough diagnosis in Paris,” he said, via Diario AS. Nonetheless, the Frenchman acknowledged that Los Blancos were constantly working with the Parisian knee specialists.

Mbappé denies managing minutes at Real Madrid ahead the 2026 World Cup

With the 2026 World Cup just a few months away, Real Madrid fans expected Kylian Mbappé to have his minutes managed, aiming to arrive in peak condition with France. However, the 27-year-old striker has publicly rejected this approach, making clear his commitment to his club and his experience heading into the anticipated tournament.

“I’ve played two World Cups, I won one, and I reached the final in the other. How did I prepare? By playing all matches with my club. For me, it’s very clear that I want to play all matches with Real Madrid… I prepared for my last two World Cups in the best way possible, which is by playing, scoring goals, winning titles and fighting until the last minute with my club,” Mbappé said, via Diario AS.

After missing several matches with Real Madrid, Kylian is looking to regain the scoring form he had before his injury. With this, he aims not only to boost Los Blancos, but also to pursue his second World Cup title, being a key figure for the third consecutive time. Additionally, the Frenchman states that he is fully fit, so there would be no risk of a relapse from his injury.

Enzo Fernandez has been on Real Madrid‘s radar since he burst onto the scene at the highest level of the game, and with rumors of a potential Chelsea departure at season’s end continuing to swirl, the Spanish giants would be eager to make a move. Now linking up with the Argentina national team for the March friendlies, Fernandez has revealed that he has held “no talks” with Real Madrid so far.

After arriving in Argentina ahead of friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia, Fernandez was approached by reporters at the airport and, in comments collected by ESPN, addressed the speculation around Real Madrid‘s reported interest: “There are no talks. Right now I am focused on Chelsea; we’ll see what happens after the World Cup.“

Far from offering Chelsea fans any reassurance, Fernandez echoed remarks he made following the club’s UEFA Champions League Round of 16 elimination against PSG last Tuesday. “Can my continuity at Chelsea be guaranteed for next season? I don’t know. Right now, my mind is here; after that, the World Cup is coming, and we’ll see then,” he said in a post-match interview.

With an early exit from the Champions League against the Parisian side, Chelsea are now left with limited objectives for the remainder of the season, still alive in the FA Cup but well off the pace in the Premier League title race. Currently sitting sixth in the league, the Blues’ primary goal has become securing Champions League qualification for next season, a factor that, if left unmet, could weigh heavily on Fernandez’s thinking.

The Argentine midfielder joined Chelsea in early 2023 when the club paid his release clause of 121 million euros to sign him from Benfica on a deal running through June 2032. Now one of the team’s captains and key figures, his latest comments have sent shockwaves through a Chelsea side already dealing with a turbulent 2025-26 campaign.

Enzo Fernandez reportedly open to Real Madrid move

Despite his denial of any ongoing talks, reports suggest there is more substance to the story ahead of a potential summer move. As revealed by talkSport‘s Ben Jacobs, Enzo Fernandez is open to joining Real Madrid if a genuine opportunity presents itself in the summer transfer window following the World Cup.

Part of his willingness to consider a departure stems not only from Chelsea’s on-field struggles and their distance from Champions League contention, but also from recent developments in the dugout. The dismissal of head coach Enzo Maresca has reportedly unsettled the squad, with Fernandez said to be particularly unhappy about the way the decision was handled.

One major obstacle any suitor would face is Fernandez’s price tag, currently listed at 90 million euros on Transfermarkt. While Saudi Arabia and PSG have reportedly shown interest, the Argentine would only seriously entertain a move to Spain, setting up a saga that figures to reach its conclusion in the weeks following the World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo ended up missing Portugal’s upcoming friendlies in North America due to injury problems that have lingered since late February. Now set to remain in Saudi Arabia to complete his recovery, the star striker could be in line for a return to the pitch, with Al Nassr having reportedly arranged a friendly during the FIFA break.

As reported by Ali Alabdallh, Al Nassr will face Al Anwar in a friendly match on Friday, March 27, in Riyadh. The club moved quickly after Jorge Jesus reportedly asked the front office to arrange a friendly so that players left off their respective national team rosters would not lose fitness during the break.

The game will be played just one day before Portugal visits Mexico to face El Tri at the Estadio Azteca on March 28. Head coach Roberto Martinez has already made clear that he preferred for Cristiano Ronaldo to remain in Saudi Arabia rather than risk another injury setback by traveling to the other side of the world.

As for Al Anwar, the club currently competes in the second tier of Saudi Arabian soccer, sitting 12th after 26 games in the 2025-26 season. With no real competitive challenge expected, coach Jorge Jesus is simply looking to distribute minutes and keep his available players sharp ahead of Al Nassr’s next match.

Ronaldo’s club currently sits atop the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League table with 67 points from 26 games, holding a three-point advantage over chasing Al Hilal. Al Nassr are also riding a 14-game winning streak, and with their next league fixture against Al Najma set for April 3, the club will be eager to return from the international break firing on all cylinders.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo feature in Al Nassr’s friendly?

Ronaldo has already missed Al Nassr’s last two matches, a 1-0 win over Neom SC and a 5-0 victory over Al Khaleej. In the game against Al Fayha on February 28, the forward suffered a hamstring injury, with reports at the time indicating that a worst-case scenario could keep him sidelined for up to four weeks, meaning his recovery is now entering its final stages.

As revealed by Roberto Martinez at Friday’s press conference, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to make a full recovery within one to two weeks, a timeline that lines up with Al Nassr’s friendly on March 27.

Ronaldo’s most recent Instagram post showed him training in the gym with the caption “Getting better every day.” With just a few days to go, the Portuguese star may well see some action in the friendly, though his involvement is likely to be limited compared to his teammates who have been fully fit throughout the break.

Neymar‘s absence from Brazil‘s March roster sparked strong reactions, not only from the player’s inner circle but also from heavyweight figures in the national team’s history. This time it was Romario who made his voice heard, calling for Neymar’s inclusion in the 2026 World Cup squad and taking aim at head coach Carlo Ancelotti for leaving the forward out of the upcoming friendlies.

Despite citing Neymar’s fitness as the primary reason for his omission, Carlo Ancelotti has not been spared from scrutiny, and not just from fans. Recently, Barcelona and Brazil star Raphinha said he hopes to see Neymar at the 2026 World Cup, a statement that, while not directed at Ancelotti, only adds to the pressure on the Italian manager to make a call on the country’s most iconic player.

This time, it was Romario’s turn to go to bat for Neymar. In an interview with Jornal O Dia, the legend made his stance clear: “A star player has to play. The national team is the place for the best and most talented. Preparation for the World Cup lasts a month, sufficient time for an athlete to recover, both physically and technically, to gain match rhythm, and to build chemistry with the group.“

Romario then pushed back directly on Ancelotti‘s fitness threshold for national team inclusion. “Everyone knows it, but it is always necessary to repeat it: it is better to have a star player like Neymar, even when he is not at 100%, than to call up any other player. Talent must not be wasted. And a coach can never do without it. I still hold out hope of seeing Neymar prove on the pitch, in the Brazilian Championship, that he deserves to be on the final list and bring home the sixth world title,” the legend stated.

Romario also argued that, despite being left out of the friendly squad, Neymar should not be subject to the same evaluation criteria as any other player, given his exceptional status. In his view, the current squad lacks that one transcendent figure whose presence alone makes opponents feel “a mix of respect, reverence, and fear,” a quality he believes only Neymar and a handful of others have ever possessed.

Romario closed with a pointed message to Ancelotti, whom he sees as a key figure in Brazil‘s pursuit of a sixth World Cup title. “I want to make it clear that while I am fully in favor of Neymar going, I will continue to support the pursuit of the ‘Hexa’ even if he doesn’t. But the message is clear: Pay attention, mister!” he concluded.

Ronaldo Nazario, another legend calling for Neymar

Reports effectively ruling Neymar out of World Cup contention have set off alarm bells, even with months still to go before the final roster is announced in May. For a player who has described the tournament as one of the last great dreams of his career, the situation carries enormous weight, and Brazil’s biggest names are increasingly lining up to make the case for his inclusion.

One of those voices belongs to Ronaldo Nazario, who spoke to CNN Brasil and offered his take on the situation: “If Neymar is physically fit, I would take him to the World Cup. I am going to hope that Neymar is physically well. If he is, I am certain that Ancelotti will take him.“

Without directly criticizing Ancelotti, Ronaldo made clear that Neymar remains the kind of difference-maker the current Brazil squad is missing in its pursuit of the title. “He can help. Perhaps he will not play every match, but he is a player who has already proven his worth everywhere he has been. Lately he has been going through significant injuries, but we do not need to scout Neymar to take him to the World Cup. If Neymar is physically fit, I would take him,” Ronaldo concluded.

Noah Allen has steadily climbed the Inter Miami all-time appearances list, showing consistency and reliability as the franchise has grown exponentially over the years. With the defender now just two games away from reaching the top of that list, attention turns to where legend Lionel Messi sits in the standings.

Inter Miami faced New York City FC in their fifth game of the 2026 MLS season, with Messi converting a free kick in a 3-2 win at Yankee Stadium, the first victory for the Herons at that venue. Forced into changes in the starting lineup with Sergio Reguilon sidelined by yet another injury, Noah Allen stepped up at left back and even contributed the assist for Micael’s winning goal with a well-delivered whipped cross.

Beyond adding another assist to his career tally, Noah Allen extended his Inter Miami appearance record to 116 games. The Greece international now sits in a share of second place on the club’s all-time list, level with former Herons Robert Taylor and Sergio Busquets.

A Miami academy product since 2019, Allen made his first-team debut on February 26, 2022, against the Chicago Fire in MLS play, and has since witnessed the franchise’s transformation before and after Messi’s arrival. Across all competitions, he has recorded just one goal and seven assists, a reflection of his profile as a natural defender rather than an attacking outlet at left back or left midfield, as he was sometimes deployed in his earlier days.

Rotating between starter and substitute over the past four years, Allen has been a consistent presence with only a handful of injury disruptions early in his career. Now 21 years old, the defender is just one game away from claiming second place outright and two away from matching the all-time record of 118 appearances, currently held by goalkeeper Drake Callender.

Where does Lionel Messi stand in the ranking?

Since arriving at Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has made a habit of rewriting the club’s record books, leaving his mark both on and off the field. He currently leads the franchise in goals with 82 and in assists with 44, but when it comes to appearances, the Argentine icon still has some ground to cover before reaching the top.

Messi currently sits eighth on Inter Miami’s all-time appearances list with 94 games to his name. Reaching the 100-game milestone will be significant not only as a round number, but also because it will draw him level with seventh-place Leonardo Campana, with sixth-place Jordi Alba (103), fifth-place Benjamin Cremaschi (107) and the top four all within reach after that.

Even with the possibility of being rested for certain games, Inter Miami have 32 matches scheduled between the 2026 MLS regular season and the Leagues Cup group stage, leaving room for his tally to grow considerably. Having featured in 49 games last season, Messi could realistically challenge Drake Callender’s record of 118 appearances, though the battle for the top spot may ultimately come down to how much playing time Noah Allen continues to see.

After becoming a legendary coach at Liverpool, Jürgen Klopp decided to leave the team and took some time away from soccer. However, he became Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer, signing a contract through 2029. Far from this being his retirement, the German has been surrounded by rumors linking him to Real Madrid’s head coach spot. In response, he denied any contact with the Spanish side.

Amid growing rumors on taking Real Madrid head coach spot, Klopp denied any approach to the Spanish side. “All the news that’s coming out is complete nonsense…They haven’t called me even once, not even a single time! They haven’t called my agent either!... Preferably, I’d take over at Atlético Madrid at the same time. Sorry Madrid, you’ll have to call first,” he said, via Magenta TV.

Despite this admission, Jürgen did not rule out a potential move to Real Madrid should he receive a concrete offer: “I’m quite advanced in life at my age, but as a coach I’m NOT completely at the end yet. I haven’t reached retirement age. Who knows what will happen in the next few years? But nothing is planned right now.”

After leaving the door open to any future possibility, Jürgen Klopp maintains two priorities if he were to leave Red Bull: Becoming head coach of Real Madrid or taking charge of Germany, reports Florian Plettenberg via Sky Sports Deutschland. However, the legendary coach remains very comfortable as Head of Global Soccer, stating that he enjoys a much calmer life than in previous years.

Coupled with this, Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of Corporate Projects and New Investments at Red Bull GmbH, has commended Klopp’s work and made it clear that the organization hopes to retain him for several more years. Therefore, any potential move by Klopp to Germany or Real Madrid would likely involve significant compensation, as he still has three years remaining on his contract.

Jürgen Klopp might hesitate to join Real Madrid

Throughout his successful career as a head coach, Jürgen Klopp has always taken on sporting projects with a clear long-term vision. This approach allows the German to build a competitive and sustainable project over time. Unlike his previous teams, Real Madrid demand immediate results, which could make the legendary coach hesitant to join the club.

After Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Los Blancos turned to Xabi Alonso, aiming to create a competitive project with immediate impact while keeping an eye on the future. However, he was dismissed just seven months into his tenure. In addition, Real Madrid tend not to retain coaches who fail to win any titles in a season, which directly clashes with the philosophy Klopp follows.

Despite this, the German could be tempted to take the helm at Real Madrid, representing the biggest risk of his career. If immediate results are not achieved, he could leave the club. Furthermore, his demanding tactical approach might conflict with player preferences, as Gareth Bale noted that they favor a manager who is more of a facilitator—something quite different from Klopp’s style.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Vinícius Jr. has faced heavy criticism, as his goal-scoring output has declined. After playing 43 matches, the Brazilian has recorded just 17 goals, a figure well below his numbers from previous seasons. Despite this, the Real Madrid star has managed to write his name into LaLiga history, reaching 100 goal contributions over the last five seasons.

According to StatMuse, via X, formerly Twitter, Vinícius Jr. has become the first player in the last five seasons to reach 100 G/A. With this, the Real Madrid star establishes himself as the team’s best player in recent years and one of the undisputed leaders of the league.

Far from settling for that, Vinícius has also become the only player in the league to record more than 15 G/A in each of the last five LaLiga seasons. With this level of performance, the Brazilian has already established himself as Real Madrid’s 15th all-time top scorer, surpassing Gonzalo Higuaín, Juanito, Gareth Bale, Ronaldo Nazário and Sergio Ramos.

Following the arrival of head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, Vinícius Jr. regained his attacking freedom, contributing to more areas beyond goal-scoring. With Kylian Mbappé shining in front of goal, the Brazilian stands as the team’s second-leading assist provider with 12, only behind Arda Güler. With this, the 25-year-old winger establishes as Real Madrid’s most efficient player, amid criticism.

Report: Vinicius Jr. nears a contract extension with Real Madrid

Vinícius Jr. has established as Real Madrid’s most important player over the past five years, but he kept his future uncertain for several months. Amid a tense relationship with then-head coach Xabi Alonso, he was leaning toward not renewing his contract, which runs until 2027. However, the arrival of Álvaro Arbeloa has changed the outlook, reportedly bringing him closer to a renewal.

According to Diario AS, Real Madrid president, Florentino Pérez, has managed to bring positions closer with Vinícius Jr., moving toward a contract renewal. While no figures or contract length have been disclosed, the Brazilian could approach a deal similar to Kylian Mbappé’s, avoiding a potential departure and establishing himself as the cornerstone of the team.

Kylian Mbappe was one of the notable absences from Real Madrid‘s starting lineup for the derby against Atletico Madrid, raising questions once again about his fitness. After the match, and especially with France national team friendlies on the horizon, Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa acknowledged that Mbappe was not “100% fit.”

In a game that could have defined the La Liga title race, Real Madrid hosted Atletico on Sunday for Matchday 29. Los Blancos found their solutions through Federico Valverde and then Vinicius, who scored a brace in a 3-2 win, with Mbappe a spectator until the second half, when he finally entered the pitch in the 64th minute.

Asked about his team selection in the post-match press conference, Arbeloa shed some light on his reasoning: “Every day I try to field the best XI to face the opponent in front of us. When you have the best in the world, you try to make the most of him and have him on the pitch as much as possible.“

The Madrid coach then addressed Mbappe’s fitness after the forward’s return from a knee sprain. “I believe that after three weeks, nearly a month, that Mbappe has been out, the normal thing to do is to progress gradually. That is what I prefer and what I understand is best for him and for the team: having players who are at 100% fitness,” Arbeloa stated.

After playing 26 minutes in the derby, Arbeloa expressed confidence that the star would benefit from his time with Les Bleus: “Kylian put in some very good minutes; he was a constant threat, just like he was the other day, so I’m sure that with his national team he’ll be able to get more minutes and return even more prepared.“

Will Mbappe feature with the national team?

On Thursday, head coach Didier Deschamps announced the France squad for friendlies against Colombia and Brazil in the United States, with Kylian Mbappe headlining the list. The news came as a surprise to Real Madrid, given that the striker had sat out several games over the previous weeks.

Since missing the second leg of the Champions League playoff against Benfica on February 25, Mbappe had been absent for five games across all competitions before making his return against Manchester City. Even so, he has been far from his best (47 minutes), prompting questions about whether it might be preferable for him to rest during the March international window, especially with the Champions League quarterfinals against Bayern Munich just two weeks away.

France will face Brazil first on March 26, and then Colombia on March 29, with Mbappe also within striking distance of becoming his country’s all-time leading scorer, sitting just two goals behind Olivier Giroud’s record of 57, one more motivation for the forward to perform despite not being fully fit.

“We will see what happens this weekend against Atletico de Madrid, how he feels, and based on that, our intention is for every player called up to get some minutes, since we are playing two matches in three days,” said Deschamps, suggesting Mbappe is likely to feature, adding that he had not called him up “for marketing.“

Alphonso Davies has gone from being a promising left winger to one of the best left backs. In light of his impressive performance, Bayern Munich secured his future by signing him to an extension through 2030. However, the Canadian has endured two injury-plagued seasons, prompting the German club to reconsider his future. As a result, he could be headed to the Premier League.

According to Christian Falk via CFBayern, Bayern Munich are now open to hearing offers for Alphonso Davies due to his frequent injuries and his high salary. Given this, Manchester United have emerged as the clear favorite to sign him, as they had already been pursuing him before his latest contract renewal.

Having signed an extension until 2030 with the German side, Davies might not be completely open to leave the team. Moreover, the Canadian star reportedly earns $16 million gross per season, making him be pleased within Bayern Munich. For that reason, the Red Devils may hold a competitive sporting project coupled with a huge salary to convince him.

Davies could be a sure starter at Manchester United. Head coach Michael Carrick has only Luke Shaw available at left back, as Patrick Dorgu is viewed as a forward and Tyrell Malacia isn’t part of the team’s plans. As an attacking full-back, the Canadian would be a perfect fit for the Red Devils, where he could shine just as he did in previous seasons with the German side.

Davies may not fit on Kompany’s Bayern Munich lineup

Amid Alphonso Davies’ recurring injuries, head coach Vincent Kompany has opted for a very different system. With Konrad Laimer and Tom Bischof, Bayern Munich rely on an inverted full-back setup, consistently contributing to the midfield. While the Canadian remains an important player for the team, he may no longer have a guaranteed place in the starting lineup.

Davies has stood out as an attacking full-back, offering little to no defensive or midfield contribution. For this reason, Kompany may not see him as an undisputed starter, or could even shift him back to left wing, where Luis Díaz is already an option—meaning he could still be a backup. With this in mind, he could benefit from a transfer, as his offensive style might thrive in the Premier League.

Compounding his issues, the Canadian recently suffered a thigh strain, which will keep him out for more matches, marking two consecutive seasons without physical continuity. As a result, Bayern Munich have already grown accustomed to performing well without Davies in the lineup, making his potential departure not entirely difficult—rather, it could be beneficial.

Neymar‘s recent omission from the Brazil national team for the March international window came as a major blow to the Santos forward and his hopes of featuring in what would be his final World Cup in 2026. As head coach Carlo Ancelotti continues to plan his squad, reports suggest that Neymar is “practically ruled out” of the group set to travel to North America.

Making his return to Santos back in February 2025 proved to be a strategic move for Neymar to escape the pressures of European soccer and accumulate minutes in his bid to recover full fitness and force his way back into the Brazil national team picture following his severe ACL injury. However, ahead of the last friendlies before the final roster is announced, the forward failed to earn a place in Ancelotti’s plans, a decision that now appears to be definitive.

As reported by CNN Brasil‘s João Vitor Xavier, Neymar is practically out of the running for the World Cup, with his chances sitting at zero. The Santos star finds himself in a difficult position, as the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has serious doubts about whether he will be physically fit enough to contribute at the tournament in North America.

During last week’s press conference following the announcement of the March roster, Carlo Ancelotti once again cited fitness as the primary reason for Neymar’s omission from the Brazil squad. Time appears to have validated the Italian manager’s concerns, as Neymar ended up sitting out Santos’ most recent match against Cruzeiro.

New Santos head coach Cuca stated that Neymar’s absence was not due to injury or rest, but rather “load management,” citing the risk of injury with three matches in seven days. However, when the World Cup arrives, where every Brazil game will come with just three or four days of rest in between, serious questions remain as to whether the former Barcelona man will be able to meet the physical demands of the competition.

The CBF and a fallout with Neymar

Beyond the clear fitness concerns that have prevented Neymar from convincing Ancelotti to call him up, despite both coach and player acknowledging they have spoken, his relationship with the CBF has also soured. His recent public remarks about his desire to feature at the World Cup, along with his overall conduct, appear to have rubbed the federation the wrong way.

As reported by CNN, Neymar’s recent statements have been poorly received by the CBF, with the governing body considering whether the player is using his public platform to turn fans against both the federation and Carlo Ancelotti. The episode in Mirassol also proved to be another inflection point in how the player is viewed internally.

The Brazil coaching staff and Ancelotti had made the trip, several hours each way, specifically to watch Neymar in action during the Mirassol FC vs. Santos match. When Neymar did not appear in the game, reports immediately emerged suggesting his absence could factor into his exclusion from the national team, and the CBF interpreted his no-show as a sign of a lack of commitment.

Now, with even the Brazilian federation showing greater reluctance than before to hand him a call-up, Neymar will have limited opportunities to make his case. With Santos hovering near the relegation zone and 15 games remaining before the final roster is announced, every single one of those matches will feel like a must-win audition for a forward chasing one of the last great dreams of his career.

Since Hansi Flick’s arrival, Alejandro Balde has remained the undisputed starter at Barcelona. With impressive offensive prowess, the Spaniard has thrived under the German coach. Nonetheless, he has constantly suffered from injuries, prompting the Blaugranas to seek a reliable backup. For that reason, they are reportedly targeting Alejandro Grimaldo and a Serie A star.

According to Alfredo Martínez, via Diario Sport, the constant injuries to Alejandro Balde and the defensive inconsistencies of João Cancelo are raising concerns at Barcelona. As a result, Alejandro Grimaldo has emerged as the priority target, as his contract runs until 2027 and he could be available for around €15 million. At 31, he would represent a reliable short-term solution.

While Balde has imposed as the starter in the left-back spot, he is prone to injuries. In the current season, he has already missed 10 games due to muscle injuries. At 22 years old, the Spaniard remains the biggest bet for the Blaugranas, but Hansi Flick needs a reliable backup to maintain competitiveness. Being a La Masia graduate, Grimaldo could be a solid reinforcement.

Grimaldo is far from the only option; the Blaugranas are also eyeing Andrea Cambiaso. According to Gianluigi Longari via X, Hansi Flick values the Juventus star for his ability to play on both flanks and contribute both defensively and offensively. Nonetheless, the Italian star would not be a low-cost option, as he is an undisputed starter for coach Luciano Spaletti.

With Grimaldo or Cambiaso arrival, Joao Cancelo’s future would be in question, as his lack of defensive contributions raise serious doubts. Nonetheless, the Portuguese star reportedly hold chances to remain at Barcelona in case he arrives as free agent from Al Hilal. Having contract until 2027, it will not be an easy task, complicating his future.

Report: Alejandro Balde is not untransferable for Barcelona

Following his debut in 2021, Alejandro Balde has established as one of the best left-backs in the world. While the Spaniard stands out as one of the team’s most important players offensively, he still has serious defensive doubts and recurring physical issues. For this reason, Barcelona would no longer consider him untouchable, opening the door to a potential departure, under certain conditions.

According to Matteo Moretto, via X, the Blaugranas are open to listening to offers for Balde. However, they would not let him leave for a low fee, as Hansi Flick considers him key and he lacks real competition, with Gerard Martín operating as a left-sided center-back. As a result, Manchester United could pursue his signing, but they would need to submit a massive offer, or the Spaniard could end up renewing his contract.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Ferran Torres seemed to establish himself as Barcelona’s bet for the future. However, he has seen his performances decline, and his future could lie away from the club. Looking ahead to next season, the Blaugranas have reportedly clarified their plans for the forward line, setting two priorities that distance the 25-year-old striker from the project.

According to the Catalan outlet Què T’hi Jugues, the Blaugranas have clarified their plans for the forward line, setting two priorities: Renewing Robert Lewandowski and signing Julián Álvarez as the new leading striker. However, the Pole’s continuity would reportedly come with a more secondary role, as his leadership and experience are valued within the squad.

Coupled with these plans, Ferran Torres could become a third option, leaving his future at Barcelona in doubt. While he established as a starter under Hansi Flick, his inconsistency cost him his place to Lewandowski. Additionally, the Blaugranas would be open to including him in a deal for Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez, reducing the overall cost of the operation, reports La Ser.

Barcelona do not have an easy task in securing Álvarez’s arrival. As a cornerstone of Atlético Madrid, the Argentine’s departure could be valued at around €150 million, making Ferran’s potential inclusion crucial. If they manage to complete his signing and retain Lewandowski, coach Hansi Flick would gain significant firepower, aiming to compete once again for all titles.

Ferran Torres raises serious doubts as Barcelona’s starting forward

Amid Robert Lewandowski’s injury at the start of the season, Ferran Torres emerged as Barcelona’s main goalscorer, netting 13 goals up until December 2025. However, the Spaniard saw a significant drop in his offensive output in 2026, scoring only three goals so far this year. As a result, he raises serious doubts about his role as a starter.

While his talent is evident, Ferran tends to be quite inconsistent, which is why he is viewed more as an option off the bench, as he often fails to deliver in key moments. Given his strong market value, the Blaugranas could benefit from his sale, as they could reinvest the money in Julián Álvarez, who is seen as an ideal fit for Hansi Flick.

Lewandowski may be a short-term solution, but he has proven to be crucial to the team’s collective play, as well as delivering in decisive moments. For this reason, the Pole could still have a key impact in the 2026–27 season, paving the way for Víctor Barberá or Óscar Gistau as backups in 2027, making Ferran’s departure a strong option.

While Zinedine Zidane established himself as one of the best coaches in the world, he has remained away from soccer for several years. Amid the instability surrounding Real Madrid, president Florentino Pérez had reportedly been closely monitoring his possible return. However, the veteran now appears to have decided his future, as he has reportedly reached an agreement to coach France.

According to Julien Laurens via ESPN, Didier Deschamps will step down at the end of the 2026 World Cup, leaving his position as France’s head coach. In response, the Fédération Française de Football (FFF) has decided to back Zinedine Zidane, who will take over the national team after the anticipated tournament following a verbal agreement.

Far from being an easy task, Zidane will face the biggest challenge of his entire coaching career. Deschamps not only led the team to victory at the 2018 World Cup, but also to the 2020–21 UEFA Nations League title. While Zinedine has already excelled at Real Madrid, he has no experience with national teams, making his appointment a clear gamble for the FFF.

Having been one of France’s greatest legends, Zinedine Zidane could enjoy the unconditional support of the national team’s locker room, making his arrival and adjustment easier. Furthermore, the coach has demonstrated a knack for managing big egos, which could provide a significant boost to a project that seems to have lost momentum in recent years.

Didier Deschamps never quite won over French fans

Didier Deschamps has become one of the most important figures in France national team history. Not only did he win the 1998 World Cup as a player, but he also won it as head coach in 2018. Despite this, the 57-year-old coach never quite won over the fans, who complained about the lack of a recognizable playing style for such a talented roster.

Even though they have stars like Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, and Michael Olise, France have remained overly reliant on the individual talents. Due to a lack of teamwork, they tend to struggle against well-organized teams like Spain. Furthermore, they have struggled with these issues since his arrival on the team in 2012, growing fans criticism.

Zidane could be the key factor for France project

Throughout his career as a coach, Zinedine Zidane has not managed to impose a style in which his teams dominate matches through possession and creative play. However, he did ensure that his Real Madrid squad had the ability to adapt to opponents, adjusting their approach to secure victories. Along with his strong man-management, this could make him a key figure for France.

Unlike Deschamps, the former Real Madrid coach does maintain significant rotation within his teams, giving players consistent minutes and keeping them engaged. In addition, Zidane could take advantage of his players’ pace to maximize talents like Mbappé or Dembélé, much like he did with Los Blancos to hurt opponents.

Nicolas Otamendi has been one of the cornerstones and leaders of Argentina during one of the most successful eras in the national team’s history, but the veteran defender has now announced that the 2026 World Cup will mark the end of his international career. With that decision confirmed, Lionel Messi will be left as the sole remaining member of the squad that finished as runner-up at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Argentina are set to bid farewell to their home fans before departing for North America in June, with friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia arranged for the March international break. Called up for both games, Otamendi spoke to reporters upon arriving in Argentina, addressing his future with the Albiceleste directly.

When asked about the call-up and his mindset heading into the World Cup, the 38-year-old was unambiguous about his plans: “After the World Cup, my time with the national team will officially come to an end. I’m happy, I’m enjoying the moment, and now it’s time to get to work.“

When further pressed on whether he would return for the September international break to receive a farewell from the fans, Otamendi again left no room for doubt. “A cycle with the national team is closing; this will be my last World Cup, and after that, I’ll just be another fan,” he said, confirming that the tournament in North America will be his final appearance for the Albiceleste.

Set to experience his last World Cup alongside the man who has been his international teammate for so long, Otamendi was asked whether he and Messi speak about this final chapter together. “We don’t talk about that. We just live it when we get together; we live in the moment and enjoy the opportunity, the training grounds, and being together once again,” he replied.

Adding a bittersweet note to his farewell tour, FIFA has confirmed that Otamendi will be required to serve a one-game suspension at the World Cup, stemming from a red card he received in Argentina’s final CONMEBOL qualifier against Ecuador. The ban means he will miss the Albiceleste’s group stage opener against Algeria on June 16, though the tournament itself, spread across Canada, Mexico and the United States, will undoubtedly serve as a fitting final stage for one of Argentina’s most decorated international defenders.

Messi, the only one left from the 2014 World Cup squad

Otamendi made his World Cup debut in 2010 at just 22 years old under Diego Maradona, launching a remarkable international career that has run in parallel with Messi’s for the best part of 16 years. Their first unforgettable shared moment came in Brazil in 2014, when Argentina reached the final on their rival’s home soil, only to fall in extra time to Germany in a match that left the nation heartbroken.

From that point, the journey was filled with highs and lows: consecutive Copa America final defeats, Messi’s brief retirement from international duty and subsequent return, a bruising early exit at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and then the golden era that brought the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles, the Finalissima against Italy, and the crowning moment of the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar.

Many of those 2014 squad members have already hung up their international boots, with Angel Di Maria being one of the last to do so, stepping away after the 2024 Copa America in the United States. Otamendi will follow that same path after the 2026 World Cup, and while Messi’s own future beyond the tournament remains undecided, the Inter Miami star will stand alone as the last surviving link to that squad from 12 years ago.

Antoine Griezmann‘s time at Atletico Madrid is drawing to a close, with the Frenchman widely expected to spend the next chapter of his career in North America with Orlando City. With reports now indicating that Griezmann has flown to Orlando following the club’s green light, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he will end up facing Lionel Messi‘s Inter Miami in the 2026 MLS season.

With a Designated Player slot available, Orlando City pushed hard to bring Griezmann in during the primary MLS transfer window, but with the 2025-26 European season still in full swing, Atlético were unwilling to part with one of their key players mid-season. As a result, the Lions agreed to wait and target a move for the second half of the 2026 campaign.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Orlando City have now reached an agreement to sign Griezmann on a free transfer from July 2026. The Frenchman will wear the No. 7 shirt and has signed a two-year contract, with reports suggesting it will rank among the most lucrative deals in MLS history.

With the formal details still to be finalized, The Athletic has also reported that Griezmann will travel to Orlando to wrap up the remaining contractual specifics. Atlético gave players not involved in international duty two days off following Real Madrid’s game, and with the club’s blessing, the French star is using that window to make the trip to North America.

Griezmann has made clear his desire to play in the Copa del Rey final with Atlético and go as far as possible in the UEFA Champions League, with the team set to face Barcelona in the quarterfinals. With those prizes still within reach, the forward will be aiming to close his chapter with the club on the highest possible note before making his MLS debut.

When will Messi and Griezmann see each other?

Once Griezmann officially becomes an Orlando City player, one of the most anticipated matchups in MLS will be the Florida Derby against Inter Miami, reuniting the Frenchman with his former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi on opposite sides. However, fans may have to exercise some patience before that moment arrives.

The first Florida Derby of 2026 took place on Matchday 2 back on March 1, with Inter Miami claiming a 4-2 victory at Inter&Co Stadium. The second edition, with the Herons as hosts at the new Miami Freedom Park, is scheduled for May 2.

That game falls before Griezmann’s move to Orlando is set to be completed, and also before the conclusion of the La Liga season and a potential UEFA Champions League final on May 30. Under that timeline, a Messi-Griezmann reunion on the MLS pitch will have to wait until either a potential conference playoff meeting later in the year or the start of the 2027 season.

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s long-awaited return to North America had been one of the most anticipated storylines surrounding Portugal‘s March tour as soon as the friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT were announced ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With the veteran striker ultimately left off coach Roberto Martínez’s squad list due to injury, star teammate Bruno Fernandes has expressed his regret over the absence.

Last Friday, Martínez released his Portugal squad for the March international window and opted to leave Ronaldo out, citing the hamstring injury the Al Nassr forward is still recovering from. The news disappointed a significant number of fans who had been eagerly anticipating the chance to see the Portuguese icon in action, particularly in Mexico.

Speaking to TNT Sports Mexico after Manchester United’s game against Bournemouth, Fernandes was asked about the upcoming trip and expressed genuine enthusiasm for the experience at the Estadio Azteca: “We are very excited to play in such a legendary stadium. For us, it’s going to be a great trip to also get to know the country, the climate, and where we might eventually play later on in the World Cup.“

Portugal is scheduled to play two World Cup group stage matches at NRG Stadium in Houston and one at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, meaning their only potential appearance in Mexico would come later in the tournament. “At first, we aren’t going to play there—we’ll see later on—but that’s fine. It is also important to play against a team that is growing and has very good players,” Fernandes added.

The United captain then reflected on the significance of Ronaldo’s absence and what it means for those hoping to see him in person: “For us, I obviously know that the people wanted to see Cristiano because he is the main figure of our national team, and of football as well. I feel very sorry that they won’t be able to see him up close, but it will still be a very good match between two great national teams.“

Reports have already emerged suggesting that Ronaldo’s absence from the Mexico friendly could have a tangible financial impact on Portugal FA’s earnings from the tour. While the game remains a valuable test for both the Seleção and El Tri, the absence of the Al Nassr star from the lineup will undoubtedly factor into the decisions of many fans weighing whether to attend.

Who will be Portugal’s captain?

Over the past 15 years, Cristiano Ronaldo has worn the armband virtually every time he has taken the field for Portugal, leaving little opportunity for anyone else to lead the side. That does not mean, however, that Martínez is short of options in his absence.

In the last two years, Ronaldo has missed just five of Portugal’s 26 matches, either through rest or, most recently, suspension. During those absences, the captaincy has rotated among several players, passing through Pepe, now retired, Rúben Dias, João Cancelo and most recently Bernardo Silva, who has worn the armband on two occasions, making him the only player to do so more than once aside from Ronaldo during that period.

Notably, Bruno Fernandes, despite being club captain at Manchester United, has yet to captain the national side. With both Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias absent from the squad for the upcoming friendlies, Fernandes could finally get his opportunity to lead Portugal out for the first time.

Pep Guardiola has long been regarded as one of the finest coaches of the modern era, not only for the revolutionary tactics he has deployed across multiple countries, but for the remarkable haul of silverware he has accumulated along the way. With Manchester City‘s Carabao Cup victory over Arsenal, Guardiola now sits second on the all-time list of most decorated managers with 40 trophies.

Manchester City headed into Sunday’s final having been knocked out of the Champions League Round of 16 by Real Madrid, in need of a trophy to salvage something from the campaign. Guardiola delivered, with a disciplined and well-organized City side neutralizing an Arsenal team that struggled throughout to build from the back and create meaningful chances.

Nico O’Riley proved to be the match-winner in the second half, scoring a brace in the 60th and 64th minutes to clinch the 2025-26 Carabao Cup. The victory over his former pupil Mikel Arteta extended Guardiola’s personal trophy count to 40, ending what had been a barren previous campaign without silverware.

“Nobody – even myself – would (bet) £1 today for a victory. Arsenal were on an incredible run and we could not win against Nottingham Forest at home or West Ham away. We lost 5-1 aggregate against Real Madrid despite the fact we were 65 minutes 10 against 11. So few people, really few people, but the players proved it again – the older players and especially the new ones,” he admitted in the post-match press conference.

Pep Guardiola’s trophy cabinet

Guardiola began his managerial career with Barcelona B before being promoted to the first team in 2008, launching a career defined by sustained success, first at the Camp Nou, then at Bayern Munich, and now at Manchester City. His full trophy breakdown is as follows:

Guardiola’s 14 trophies at Barcelona (2008-2012)

• 3 La Liga titles (2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11)
• 2 Copa del Rey (2008-09, 2011-12)
• 3 Spanish Super Cups (2009, 2010, 2011)
• 2 Champions League titles (2008-09, 2010-11)
• 2 UEFA Super Cups (2009, 2011)
• 2 Club World Cups (2009, 2011)

Guardiola’s 7 trophies at Bayern Munich (2013-2016)

• 3 Bundesliga titles (2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16)
• 2 German Cups (DFB-Pokal) (2013-14, 2015-16)
• 1 UEFA Super Cup (2013)
• 1 Club World Cup (2013)

Guardiola’s 19 trophies at Manchester City (2016-2026)

• 6 Premier League titles (2017-18, 2018-19, 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24)
• 5 League Cups (Carabao Cup) (2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21, 2025-26)
• 3 Community Shields (2018, 2019, 2024)
• 2 FA Cups (2019, 2023)
• 1 Champions League title (2022-23)
• 1 UEFA Super Cup (2023)
• 1 Club World Cup (2023)

Who is the most decorated coach in soccer history?

Guardiola’s standing at each of his three clubs is a testament to his consistent excellence, holding the record as the most decorated manager in the histories of both Barcelona and Manchester City, while his three years at Bayern still placed him second on the club’s all-time list behind Ottmar Hitzfeld (11). But he still has ground to make up before reaching the summit of the overall rankings.

That distinction belongs to Sir Alex Ferguson, whose 39-year managerial career spanning from 1974 to 2013 produced a staggering 49 trophies. Ferguson claimed 11 during his time in Scotland with St. Mirren and Aberdeen before moving to Manchester United, where he spent 27 years and added 38 more titles across domestic and European competition.

Match Overview

With momentum and positioning in the early Brasileirao standings on the line, Corinthians head into a high-stakes weekend matchup holding 9 points and looking to cut into the gap above them. Standing in their way are Flamengo.

The Fla arrive with 13 points and firmly focused on keeping within striking distance of the league’s top spots, setting the stage for a hard battle between two contenders. Expect intensity, quality, and plenty of drama.

Match Overview

With both clubs searching for early momentum, the Los Angeles Galaxy return home looking to rebound after a narrow 2-1 defeat against Sporting Kansas City, a result that left them sitting 10th in the Western Conference with just four points.

Meanwhile, the Portland Timbers arrive in a similar position, having collected only three points through their opening four matches. With both sides hovering near the bottom of the standings, this showdown carries added weight as a chance to gain ground in the play-in race.

Match Overview

One of the marquee showdowns on the European soccer calendar headlines the weekend as Real Madrid collides with city rival Atletico Madrid in a high-stakes derby with far more than three points at stake. Led by Kylian Mbappe, Madrid enter the clash chasing a pivotal win to strengthen its grip atop the La Liga standings.

But the challenge won’t come easy against a battle-tested Atletico Madrid side determined to play spoiler. While Atletico may sit outside the title picture, the team has every incentive to tighten the race and disrupt its fiercest rival, setting the stage for a tense, emotionally charged matchup that could have major implications in the title race.

NYCFC hosted Inter Miami at Yankee Stadium on Sunday for Matchday 5 of the 2026 MLS season. With Lionel Messi once again finding the net from a free kick, the Herons secured a thrilling 3-2 victory.

Inter Miami started fast, with Gonzalo Lujan pouncing on a rebound in the box to open the scoring in the third minute. NYCFC drew level in the 17th when Nicolas Fernandez delivered a stunning free kick that clipped the crossbar and bounced in, leaving Dayne St. Clair with no chance.

The home side completed their comeback in the 59th minute when Maxi Moralez slipped a clinical pass through for Agustin Ojeda, who kept his composure in a one-on-one with St. Clair to restore NYCFC’s lead. But Messi had other ideas, and just two minutes later, the Argentine curled a free kick off Fernandez and into the net, the deflection catching Freese completely off guard to make it 2-2.

The Herons completed the turnaround in the 74th minute when Noah Allen delivered a well-weighted cross to the back post for defender Micael to rise and head home the winner. The result not only ended NYCFC’s unbeaten run but also leveled the two sides on 10 points each in the 2026 MLS standings after five games.

With his free kick against NYCFC, Messi has now extended his own personal record to 71 career free kick goals, his second from set pieces in 2026 following the one against Orlando City. The Argentine sits just one goal behind third-place Juninho Pernambucano (72) on the all-time list, with the top spot held by Marcelino Carioca on 78 firmly in his sights.

After a highly successful campaign, Arsenal entered as the clear favorites to defeat Manchester City. However, Pep Guardiola completely outcoached the Gunners, relying on high pressing and numerical superiority in attack. Led by Nico O’Reilly and his brace, the Citizens were crowned 2026 Carabao Cup champions, neutralizing Mikel Arteta’s midfield.

With absence of Rúben Dias and the inability to count on Marc Guéhi, Manchester City came into the 2026 Carabao Cup Final significantly weakened. Nevertheless, Guardiola imposed an intense high press on the Gunners, shutting down their entire attacking output. In addition, Jérémy Doku and Antoine Semenyo created space for Nico O’Reilly to take control with a decisive brace.

Despite Kai Havertz’s return to midfield, the Gunners were completely disrupted, lacking offensive ideas. As a result, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard emerged as threats on the counter, but City’s defense shut down every attempt. Moreover, coach Mikel Arteta introduced Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli too late, leaving them little time to make an impact.

With the victory in the 2026 Carabao Cup, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City ended a three-year winless run against Arsenal, with their last victory dating back to April 25, 2023. They also secured their first title of the season, hoping it will serve as a boost in their pursuit of the Premier League lead, currently held by the Gunners.

Nico O’Reilly’s brace led Manchester City to a key victory

While Jeremy Doku, Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki stood out as the top attacking performers, it was Nico O’Reilly who led Manchester City to victory. After a ball recovery, Bernardo Silva received possession, dribbled past Arsenal defenders and unleashed a powerful shot at Kepa Arrizabalaga. However, O’Reilly reacted to the rebound and finished first-time to score his first goal.

Just minutes after his opener, Jeremy Doku led an impressive run down the left flank. After beating his markers, he found Matheus Nunes free at the edge of the box, delivering the pass. The Portuguese then combined with Rodri in a quick one-two to break into space out wide and deliver a cross, which Nico O’Reilly confidently headed home to complete his brace.

Match Overview

Pressure is mounting in the Brasileiro as Santos and Cruzeiro prepare for a crucial showdown that could heavily influence the relegation picture. Cruzeiro arrive still searching for their first win of the campaign after managing just three draws alongside four losses, a run that has stalled any early momentum.

On the other side, Santos come into this matchup under pressure following a 2-1 home defeat against Internacional, leaving them stuck on six points and in urgent need of a turnaround. With both teams desperate to change the narrative of their seasons, this matchup carries massive implications.

Amid their instability, Real Madrid have managed to turn their situation around, putting together a strong run and securing their place in the Champions League quarterfinals. However, they face Atlético Madrid today, aiming for a win to extend their streak in LaLiga. In the midst of this uncertainty, Kylian Mbappé will indeed play today, as confirmed by head coach Álvaro Arbeloa.

Following getting minutes against Manchester City and being called up by France for the upcoming friendlies, Kylian Mbappé will see playing time today against Los Colchoneros, coach Álvaro Arbeloa stated in the latest press conference. While he has rejoined full team training, the Frenchman will not start in today’s clash.

Coupled with Mbappé, Real Madrid have also included Jude Bellingham in their squad to face Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, the Englishman will not start, though he might see some playing time. In his place, Thiago Pitarch will start for the sixth consecutive game. Alongside the Spaniard, Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Arda Guler will compose the midfield.

Atlético Madrid arrive in top form to face Real Madrid. Not only have they secured a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals, but they also remain unbeaten in their last four LaLiga games. Moreover, coach Diego Simeone has revitalized Julian Álvarez, who is leading the scoring alongside Ademola Lookman and Giuliano Simeone. Finally, Johnny Cardoso is expected to anchor the midfield.

Real Madrid lineup vs Atlético Madrid

While Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham have reentered on Real Madrid squad, they will have six key absentees: Thibaut Courtois, Raul Asencio, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy, Dani Ceballos, and Rodrygo due to injury concerns. With this in mind, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be forced to make some changes in the lineup, including Andriy Lunin and remain Thiago Pitach in the midfield.

Considering this, Real Madrid will play as follows: Andriy Lunin; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen, Fran Garcia; Federico Valverde, Arda Guler, Aurelien Tchouameni, Thiago Pitarch; Vinicius Jr, Brahim Diaz.

Atlético Madrid lineup vs Real Madrid

Like Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid also arrive with four key absentees: Jan Oblak, Matteo Ruggeri, Pablo Barrios and Rodrigo Mendoza. Nonetheless, coach Diego Simeone has reached to maintain a good streak, betting for Juan Musso as goalkeeper, David Hancko as left back and Johnny Cardoso and Marcos Llorente in the midfield. Moreover, the Colchoneros will bet for Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann as strikers.

With this in mind , the Colchoneros will lineup as follows: Juan Musso; Marcos Llorente, Jose Maria Gimenez, Robin Le Normand, David Hancko; Giuliano Simeone, Koke, Johnny Cardoso, Ademola Lookman; Julián Álvarez, Antoine Griezmann.

Match Overview

New York City FC have a prime opportunity to shake up the Eastern Conference standings as they enter this matchup with 10 points, knowing a win could lift them to 13 and potentially into first place, but Inter Miami stand in the way as they look to bounce back from a frustrating scoreless draw against Charlotte that halted their momentum.

Still dealing with the fallout from their Champions Cup exit, the Florida side will turn to Lionel Messi and their star-studded squad to reignite their push at the top, setting up a high-stakes early-season clash with major implications—don’t miss this one.

Match Overview

With silverware on the line, Manchester City and Arsenal are set to collide in the Carabao Cup final, a matchup featuring two of the Premier League’s top-performing sides this season. City arrive determined to salvage their campaign with a domestic title after falling short in Europe.

Meanwhile, Arsenal continue their surge as league leaders and fresh off booking a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals. Both teams bring elite form and urgency into this clash, setting the stage for an intense, high-tempo battle with no shortage of drama—miss a second!

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Match Overview

With a direct UEFA Champions League league-stage spot on the line, Feyenoord enter this high-stakes clash looking to solidify their grip on second place after falling well behind PSV in the title race. Every point matters at this stage, and protecting their advantage is the clear priority as the season winds down.

Meanwhile, Ajax come into this matchup under pressure after an inconsistent campaign, but they remain firmly in the hunt, sitting just five points back and fully aware that anything less than a win could seriously damage their chances.

Match Overview

All eyes turn to Barcelona as they continue their push to stay atop the La Liga standings, carrying serious momentum into this matchup after a dominant 5–2 victory over Sevilla. Holding a four-point advantage over Real Madrid, the Blaugrana know every result matters as they aim to maintain — or even extend — their lead depending on how their closest challengers perform.

Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano enter with urgency of their own, sitting on 32 points and trying to create more distance from the relegation zone, currently holding a six-point buffer. With Barcelona chasing the title and Rayo battling for security, this clash brings high stakes on both ends of the table—don’t miss a minute of the action.

Match Overview

With positioning in the Liga MX table beginning to tighten, Club America find themselves in seventh place on 17 points, fully aware that a strong result could be the difference between holding onto a playoff spot or slipping into a dangerous position.

On the other side, Pumas UNAM enters with 20 points and a clear opportunity to strengthen their push toward the top while delivering a statement win against its fiercest rival. That added urgency only intensifies what is already one of the most emotional fixtures in Mexican soccer—the Capital Derby—where pride, momentum, and bragging rights are always on the line.

Barcelona are looking for a reliable center back to pair with Pau Cubarsí. Finding a left-footed defender with technique for that role is not easy, since players like that are hard to come by. Their preferred option appears to be Inter‘s Alessandro Bastoni, and a new report suggests good news for Hansi Flick.

According to Diario Sport, Inter are already looking for defenders to replace Bastoni in the next transfer window. The publication says Napoli’s Alessandro Buongiorno, Roma’s Evan Ndicka and Bologna’s Jhon Lucumí are among the names they are considering as possible replacements if their star defender leaves.

This is great news for Barcelona, since a few weeks ago the possibility of Bastoni joining the club seemed too distant. He is a very important part of a team that wants to win every competition. With the player seemingly open to a move to Spain after liking posts related to his transfer on social media, this adds to the excitement of fans who want to see him wearing the Barcelona shirt.

Alternative to Bastoni

This negotiation does not seem easy, as Barcelona have struggled financially for many years. Every major name in the market appears out of reach for that reason, so the club needs backup plans.

The loss of Iñigo Martínez last year was strongly felt in a team that needs a very specific set of qualities from its defenders under Flick. The gap was covered with some solid performances from Gerard Martín, who is not certain to return to the team.

A player to keep an eye on is Marcos Senesi. The Argentine has become a dependable piece for Bournemouth with strong Premier League experience. His biggest advantage as an option for Barcelona, even if Bastoni is signed, is his price, since he could arrive on a free transfer.

Bastoni’s price tag

Inter will not let a key player leave easily for a team that competes with them in the Champions League. For now, there is optimism in Barcelona that they could reach an agreement with the Italians, possibly offering a player as part of the deal to lower the fee. His reported price tag is around $75 million, or 70 million euros, which could put the Spanish club out of the race.

Marcus Rashford’s future at Barcelona is now surrounded by uncertainty, amid reported concerns within the Spanish club over whether such a significant financial outlay is justified, combined with a recent dip in performances.

Since the start of the year, reports had indicated that Barcelona were firmly intending to trigger the €30 million (around $34 million) option agreed with Manchester United. However, time has passed and the deal has yet to be completed “because the sporting department wanted to evaluate his performances over the following months,” according to Sport.

And things have not gone in the English forward’s favor during that stretch. Rashford had recorded seven goals and 11 assists across all competitions in the first half of the season. However, since the start of 2026, those numbers have dropped significantly.

So far this year, Rashford has scored just one goal in the UEFA Champions League and two in La Liga, while adding only two assists. That amounts to just five goal contributions in 14 matches (0.35 per game), a sharp decline from the 18 he registered in his first 24 appearances (0.75 per game).

Coach Hansi Flick speaks on Rashford

Speaking at Saturday’s press conference ahead of the La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano, Hansi Flick addressed Rashford’s recent lack of involvement. “He had some issues in recent days and we managed him carefully. Now he’s back at one hundred percent,” the coach said.

Regarding Rashford’s future—as well as Joao Cancelo, who is also on loan through the end of the season—Flick avoided making any definitive statements. “For me, this is not the time to say who I want. I need everyone at their best level. We’ll talk at the end and see what happens. Now is not the moment to say if I want this player or not. Anything can happen,” he added, according to Sport.

Alternative solutions for Barcelona regarding Rashford

Amid this uncertainty, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has addressed Rashford’s situation and raised the possibility of negotiating with Manchester United to keep the player without paying the full $34 million fee this summer.

“We could extend the loan further,” Laporta said recently. “There are formulas, such as completing part of the purchase option with Manchester United and the rest we will see later.” However, the club president made it clear that the final decision will depend on the sporting director: “It depends on what Deco wants.”

Athletic Club will be without a head coach at the end of the current La Liga season, as Ernesto Valverde announced earlier this week. Following that news, speculation has begun over his potential successor, with USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino among the names mentioned.

According to Diario AS, the leading candidate to take over the Spanish club for the 2026-27 season is Edin Terzic, former Borussia Dortmund head coach. However, Mundo Deportivo adds a broader list of options. “Among them are Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth), Iñigo Pérez (Rayo Vallecano), Claudio Giráldez (Celta de Vigo), and Mauricio Pochettino (United States),” the report states.

This is not the first time Pochettino’s future has been the subject of speculation. It is widely expected that he will remain with the USMNT through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he faces the major challenge of leading the host nation, but beyond that, his next step remains uncertain.

The Argentine coach was hired in 2024 and has since managed 22 matches, recording 13 wins, two draws, and seven losses. During that stretch, the USMNT finished as runners-up in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, losing to Mexico. Pochettino’s contract runs for two years and is set to expire following the World Cup.

Pochettino’s ties to La Liga

Pochettino being linked with a La Liga club comes as no surprise, given his long history in Spain. He was an icon for Espanyol during his playing career, making 318 appearances across 10 seasons in two different spells (1994 to 2000 and 2004 to 2006).

After retiring, Pochettino began his managerial career at Espanyol, where he worked from January 2009 to November 2012. He later moved to Southampton in the Premier League, and from there his career took off, leading him to Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea before arriving in the United States.

Real Madrid, another potential destination for Pochettino

Recently, Mauricio Pochettino has also been mentioned as a potential candidate to take over at Real Madrid, possibly replacing Alvaro Arbeloa. However, that possibility—like the Athletic Club link—would only materialize after the World Cup.

Many teams around the world see this next week as a problem in their schedules because their most important players are leaving to represent their countries. Barcelona has plenty of talent in that situation, but Hansi Flick does not see it as an issue for them.

Flick said: “We’ll train and give some rest to the players who stay, as always. I don’t think about what may happen to the international players, I don’t think about potential injuries. There’s a World Cup and everybody wants to play. It’s going to be good for them to disconnect from this routine and come back with more energy. It’s positive for us.”

Barcelona have most of their regular starters traveling around the world to represent their countries. Before that happens, though, they have an important match against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday to keep Real Madrid behind them in La Liga.

Flick on Rashford, Cancelo and Martín’s continuities

Three talking points for the summer in Barcelona involve current players who may leave the club. The main topic is Marcus Rashford, with the English forward’s dip in form making the purchase clause seem too high for the Spanish club.

Rashford arrived at Barcelona on loan from Manchester United, with €30 million as the price to make the move permanent. There have been reports of talks between the clubs about the fee, but the forward will need to improve if he wants to stay with Flick’s team.

About Rashford, João Cancelo and Gerard Martín, the manager said: “We need everybody until the end and then we’ll see. There’s a World Cup. I believe in my players. Cancelo, Rashford and Martín give us quality. We’ll talk at the end and we’ll see what happens. Now is not the time to say, ‘I want this one, I don’t want this one.’ Anything can happen.”

Flick on the number 9

One spot in the lineup that could change in the future is the number 9 position. With Robert Lewandowski nearing the end of his contract and Ferrán Torres not performing at the same level as his teammate, the question about the Spanish forward has come up.

Flick backed the younger player after being asked by the media: “The important thing is to be dynamic, to be active. Ferran was good in the training session. I see him with confidence. He’s making the effort to get back to his best level.”

The tension surrounding Neymar’s international future has reached a new level, with the Brazilian star once again omitted from the national team squad under Carlo Ancelotti. The decision has not only raised eyebrows across the soccer world but has also stirred strong emotions within the player’s inner circle.

While Neymar continues his efforts to regain top form at Santos, Ancelotti appears focused on building a competitive and balanced squad for the Brazil national team, even if it means making difficult and controversial decisions. The veteran’s absence from the squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia marks a significant moment in Ancelotti’s tenure. Out of five squad selections made by the Italian coach, Neymar has not been included in any, signaling a clear shift in approach.

Previously, the forward’s absence could be explained by injury concerns. However, now that he has returned to action at club level, the reasoning appears more tactical and performance-based. Ancelotti is prioritizing current form, match rhythm, and overall contribution over reputation, a philosophy that is reshaping the hierarchy within the Selecao.

This approach reflects a broader strategy. The coach is focused on building cohesion and consistency ahead of the World Cup, rather than relying on established stars. With a record of four wins, two draws, and two losses in his first eight matches, the experienced tactician is still fine-tuning his system and identifying the players best suited to execute it.

What did Neymar’s father say?

The underlying tension became more apparent midway through the unfolding story, when Neymar’s father publicly addressed the situation. His words, shared via social media, carried both encouragement and subtle criticism: “Not everything happens when we want it to, but everything has a purpose. Now it’s time to look ahead, focus on the present, and do what you love. We have to go through the process.”

This message, while framed as support, was widely interpreted as a response to the coach’s decision. It reflected frustration within Neymar’s camp, particularly given the player’s efforts to return from injury and re-establish himself.

The timing of the statement added further weight, coming just as the Brazil national team prepares for high-profile fixtures in the United States. For many observers, it highlighted the growing disconnect between the player’s expectations and the coach’s vision.

Shift in philosophy under Ancelotti

Ancelotti’s handling of Neymar’s situation underscores a broader transformation within the Brazil setup. The message is clear: no player is guaranteed a place based on past achievements.

Instead, the focus is firmly on performance and readiness. The 34-year-old forward, despite his status as the national team’s all-time leading scorer, is currently viewed as lacking the sharpness required at the highest level. He is still recovering consistency, rhythm, and peak physical condition, factors that are crucial in a team preparing for a major tournament.

The spotlight was firmly on Christian Pulisic and absentee Rafael Leao as Milan returned to action at San Siro, navigating both on-field pressure and off-field tension. The build-up to the clash with Torino had been anything but smooth, with internal friction, inconsistent form, and rising expectations all converging into one decisive evening. The match carried an air of intrigue, particularly around how the American would respond.

Milan’s 3-2 victory over Torino was anything but straightforward. The first half painted a picture of uncertainty and imbalance, with the home side struggling to impose control. Despite taking the lead through a stunning long-range strike from Strahinja Pavlovic, the performance lacked cohesion. Torino capitalized on this inconsistency, applying pressure and eventually equalizing just before halftime through Giovanni Simeone.

The early exchanges exposed Milan’s vulnerability, with the visitors appearing sharper and more aggressive. Defensive lapses and poor decision-making allowed the visitor to create multiple chances, forcing goalkeeper Mike Maignan into action. While Pavlovic’s goal was spectacular, it did not reflect dominance; it masked underlying issues that needed urgent correction.

Whatever was said in the dressing room by Massimiliano Allegri had an immediate impact. Milan emerged for the second half with renewed energy, sharper movement, and greater attacking intent. The tactical adjustments, particularly a shift in structure, allowed the team to control possession and create more meaningful opportunities.

Adrien Rabiot restored the Rossoneri’s lead early in the second half, before Youssouf Fofana quickly added a third, giving the impression that the game was slipping away from Torino. The tempo, precision, and confidence were markedly improved, highlighting a clear contrast between the two halves.

Watch Pulisic’s decisive contribution

It was in this crucial phase of the match that the mystery referenced before the game finally unfolded. Pulisic registered his first goal contribution of 2026, delivering a moment of quality that proved decisive.

The American positioned himself intelligently and delivered a dangerous ball into a high-risk attacking area often, allowing Rabiot to finish from close range. It was a subtle yet highly effective piece of play, showcasing awareness, timing, and technical execution.

This assist not only influenced the result but also marked a potential turning point in Pulisic’s season, which had been under scrutiny due to an 82-day goalscoring drought and inconsistent performances.

Tension with Leao and dressing room dynamics

Leading up to the match, tensions between him and Leao had escalated following Milan’s defeat to Lazio. Reports indicated frustration over decision-making in attacking situations, particularly a missed passing opportunity.

The Portuguese star was even heard expressing his dissatisfaction, saying, “He never passes,” highlighting the breakdown in communication between the two forwards. The disagreement reportedly continued off the pitch, requiring intervention from the coaching staff.

However, Allegri played down the situation publicly, emphasizing unity and perspective: “After an argument, there’s always peace. These things happen in football… The difference in football is the choice in the final pass.” He added reassurance regarding the incident: “He didn’t see you, otherwise he would have passed it to you.”

By the time of the Torino match, the issue had been addressed, with both players reportedly reconciling. Leao, sidelined through injury, watched from the stands, and his reaction to the assist quickly became a talking point among fans.

Match Overview

First place in the Brasileirao is up for grabs as São Paulo look to reclaim the top spot after slipping with a tough 1-0 defeat against Atletico Mineiro, a result that ended their stay at the summit and adds urgency heading into this clash.

Their response won’t come easy, though, with Palmeiras arriving in top form after grinding out a 2-1 victory over Botafogo, a result that kept them level on points but ahead in the standings thanks to goal difference. With both sides bringing momentum, expect a fast-paced, physical battle that could shape the title race.

Argentina will face the challenge this summer of defending the title they won in Qatar 2022. However, they will arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the midst of an extended run of matches against weaker opposition, raising questions about their current competitive edge.

This week, Argentina confirmed their opponents for the March international break, during which they will play two friendlies at Boca Juniors’ stadium in Buenos Aires. The first will be on Friday, March 27 against Mauritania, followed four days later by a match against Zambia.

The choice of opponents was not driven by a desire to face strong competition. Instead, it was tied to the need to find available teams after the cancellation of the Finalissima against Spain and the inability to schedule matches against Honduras and Guatemala, as originally planned, due to FIFA regulations.

Mauritania are currently ranked 115th in the FIFA rankings, while Zambia sit 91st. This highlights a trend that Argentina have repeated in recent years during nearly every international break.

Argentina tend to face lower-tier opponents

Considering both competitive matches and friendlies, since the 2022 World Cup final against France, Argentina have faced just one top-10 FIFA-ranked team: Brazil. They have played them twice, both in South American qualifiers, winning both matches (1-0 away and 4-1 in Buenos Aires).

During that same span, they have faced only two additional top-20 opponents: Colombia and Uruguay. The rest of their matches have come against teams ranked outside that range, in some cases significantly lower.

The trend is even more pronounced in friendlies. Between 2023 and 2026, Argentina’s list of opponents during international breaks has included Curaçao (81st in the FIFA rankings), Indonesia (122nd), El Salvador (99th), Guatemala (94th), Puerto Rico (156th), and Angola (89th). Mauritania and Zambia now join that list.

Can Argentina repeat their 2022 success?

Argentina are currently the reigning champions of every major senior competition available to them: the World Cup, Copa America, and the Finalissima. That places them among the favorites heading into the tournament in North America this summer.

However, the advancing age of some key players—such as Lionel Messi, who will turn 39 during the World Cup—along with a dip in form from others, raises doubts about their chances of repeating the feat of Qatar 2022. The lack of meaningful tests against high-quality opposition only adds to those concerns.

After taking Manchester City out in the round of 16 of the Champions League, Real Madrid look to finish a perfect week with another huge match. In La Liga the race is close, so the derby against Atletico Madrid is a hard obstacle to leave behind in their title chase. While Thibaut Courtois won’t be available, he’s not the only one out.

For this match, manager Álvaro Arbeloa won’t be able to put five players in the lineup. The main absence from the team logically comes in goal, as Courtois got injured in England last Tuesday, with a timetable for return of six weeks. Andriy Lunin replaced him a few days ago in a change that should be repeated.

The other four players have important names while not being usual starters for the manager. Rodrygo, Éder Militao, Dani Ceballos and Ferland Mendy are the players Arbeloa can’t put on the field or the bench in this heated match.

Huge return for Arbeloa

The list of absences seems important mainly because a top goalkeeper like Courtois can’t be present. However, the names that are returning clearly stand out, as several talented players have left injuries behind.

Fans may be thrilled to know that Jude Bellingham was already allowed to play again after a muscle injury that saw him on the stands for over a month. His presence in the midfield should give Real Madrid a boost.

Arbeloa has a pair of players that join Bellingham in the list of returns. A return that may be very noticeable is Álvaro Carreras’, while defender Raúl Asencio is also ready again, as they can give more flexibility to the manager in the last line of the team.

Real Madrid seek revenge

The standings say that Real Madrid sit four points behind Barcelona, which is the objective. Atletico Madrid are nine points behind, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t dangerous, especially considering what happened in their previous La Liga meeting, when Atletico Madrid demolished their rivals 5-2. Real Madrid won 2-1 in the Super Cup in January.

With just over two months remaining until the start of the 2026 World Cup, Guillermo Ochoa has been recalled to Mexico’s squad. This puts him in a strong position to reach a record also coveted by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: the most appearances in the FIFA tournament.

Currently, Ochoa, Messi, and Ronaldo are part of a select group of players who have featured in five different World Cups. Other legends from the past include Germany’s Lothar Matthaus and Mexico’s Antonio Carbajal, Rafael Marquez, and Andres Guardado.

Having started his World Cup journey in Germany 2006, Ochoa, Messi, and Ronaldo also featured in South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, and Qatar 2022. The Argentine forward and the Portuguese star appear likely to participate in North America 2026, putting them within reach of the historic record of becoming the first players to appear in six World Cups.

Ochoa, on the other hand, until just a few weeks ago seemed almost out of contention, having lost favor with head coach Javier Aguirre as one of Mexico’s goalkeepers. However, Luis Malagon’s serious Achilles tendon injury unexpectedly opened the door for his return.

Ochoa back with Mexico

This week, the Mexico national team officially announced its 26-player squad selected by Javier Aguirre for the FIFA March break friendlies against Portugal and Belgium. Guillermo Ochoa is listed as one of the three goalkeepers, alongside Carlos Acevedo and Raul Rangel.

For Ochoa, this marks his return to Mexico after several months away. He had not been included in the September, October, November, January, or February call-ups, and his World Cup hopes appeared uncertain.

His last call-up was for the 2025 Gold Cup, where he did not see any game time. To find the last occasion Ochoa played internationally, one must go back to November 2024, when he appeared against Honduras in the Concacaf Nations League.

Ochoa at club level

At 40 years old, it’s clear that Guillermo Ochoa’s prime days as a professional player are behind him. Nevertheless, he remains active in the Cypriot league: in the 2025-26 season, he has made 24 appearances—all as a starter—for AEL Limassol.

This Sunday, Inter Miami will take on New York City FC for Matchday 5 of the 2026 MLS season. In the final practice ahead of the clash, Rodrigo De Paul was missing, along with two other key players who did not train with the squad.

“Rodrigo De Paul is absent from this morning’s Inter Miami training,” reporter Jose Armando said via his official X account on Saturday. “Maxi Falcon and Sergio Reguilon will not be available against NYCFC.”

Falcon has been sidelined for over a week due to an injury sustained during the first leg of the Round of 16 in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, when he had to leave the match in the opening minutes against Nashville SC at Geodis Park on March 11.

Reguilon’s absence is also injury-related. After recovering from a knee sprain suffered during preseason, the Spanish left-back made his official Inter Miami debut last week, starting against Charlotte FC in MLS. He started again on Wednesday against Nashville, assisting Lionel Messi for his 900th goal, but had to leave the field minutes later with another injury.

Amid these forced absences and uncertainty over Rodrigo De Paul’s availability for the NYCFC clash, there is good news regarding two of the team’s biggest stars. “Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez are available,” added Jose Armando.

MLS now Inter Miami’s main focus

Following their elimination from the Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami now have two possible titles to chase this season: MLS and the Leagues Cup. The latter will take place after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, meaning the Herons’ focus is currently on the league.

They sit in third place in the Eastern Conference standings with seven points, the result of two wins, one draw, and one loss. Their opponents this Sunday will be none other than the Conference leaders: NYCFC, who have 10 points and share the top spot with Nashville SC.

Mascherano reflects on Concacaf Champions Cup exit

As usual, Javier Mascherano held a press conference the day before the match and reflected on the impact of the Champions Cup elimination. “What happened, we can’t change it anymore, there’s no point in regretting it. We’re still in the process of accepting the disappointment of being knocked out, but it’s soccer and it can happen,” the coach said.

In looking to move forward, Mascherano addressed Inter Miami’s goals for the rest of the season: “It’s on us to show that what happened was just an accident. The best way to prove that is to focus on the league now.”

Real Madrid have been without Kylian Mbappe for most of their recent matches due to fitness concerns. Now, as he continues his recovery and gradually returns to action, the forward is set to join the France national team—something Alvaro Arbeloa addressed.

“It seems great to me,” the Real Madrid head coach said when asked about the situation during Saturday’s press conference, via Marca. “I don’t see any problem with him going to his national team. It’s good news.”

Arbeloa also offered reassurance regarding Mbappe’s physical condition. “He’s a player who is available to the coach, who has already played with us and who will definitely play tomorrow,” he added, referring to Real Madrid’s Matchday 29 La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid.

“Having many international players is positive because it means our players have a high level and quality. If they’re called up, it’s because they’re very good, which is good news for Real Madrid,” Arbeloa added.

Real Madrid players called up for the FIFA break

Mbappe’s situation is just one of several Real Madrid are dealing with ahead of the March international break. In total, 12 players from the squad will travel to join their respective national teams for international fixtures over the next week.

Mbappe, along with Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni, will join France, while Antonio Rudiger has been called up by Germany. Dean Huijsen will represent Spain, while David Alaba joins Austria. The other European call-ups are Jude Bellingham (England) and Arda Guler (Turkey).

In South America, Vinicius Junior has been included in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad, while Federico Valverde will represent Uruguay. Franco Mastantuono was not initially included in Argentina’s squad but was added at the last minute by Lionel Scaloni. The final case is Brahim Diaz, who returns to Morocco after the controversial AFCON final against Senegal.

Several additional cases are also worth noting. Rodrygo and Eder Militao were not included in Brazil’s squad due to fitness issues, while Thibaut Courtois misses out for Belgium for the same reason. Trent Alexander-Arnold is also among the most notable absences from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

Santos faces a critical Brazilian Serie A clash against Cruzeiro, and all eyes were on Neymar and his role in the match. His availability has gained extra significance as Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti monitors his fitness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Neymar, who recently returned to Santos following knee surgery in December 2025, has been struggling with consistency and injuries, making his availability a key talking point ahead of Brazil’s pre-World Cup friendlies. Although the Peixe is grappling with inconsistency this season, and Cruzeiro is yet to secure its first win, Neymar remains central to the club’s ambitions.

His presence on the pitch has been limited, but when fit, he has shown flashes of brilliance, scoring three goals in three league appearances so far. Yet, for the game against Cruzeiro, he will not play the full 90 minutes, as coach Cuca has chosen to manage his workload carefully.

Cuca confirmed Neymar’s absence, citing workload management as the reason. “I had a separate conversation with Neymar, and I can tell you now that he will be out of Sunday’s game because he played two matches and cannot play a third in seven days due to workload management. According to our physiology team, the chance of injury is very high, and we cannot take that risk,” the coach said.

This decision comes amid mounting pressure for the 34-year-old to showcase his fitness to Ancelotti, who is preparing Brazil for friendlies against France and Croatia at the end of March. The forward’s ongoing recovery from an ACL injury in October 2023, coupled with intermittent match fitness, has made him a risk in consecutive matches. While some fans were hoping to see Neymar in action, his cautious management is aimed at sustaining him for both Santos and the national team.

Why Santos’ decision makes sense

Research highlights the risks of congested schedules. According to a 2022 study in Frontiers in Physiology, soccer players are 2.5 times more likely to sustain injuries when playing matches within 72 hours of each other, reinforcing the manager’s cautious approach. This includes muscle strains, ligament injuries, and other overuse problems. The underlying reason is simple: the human body needs time to recover from physical exertion.

After a high-intensity match, muscles, tendons, and joints are fatigued, and micro-damages need repair. If players return to full competition too quickly, they don’t have enough time to rebuild strength and resilience, making injuries much more likely. Neymar’s ongoing fitness challenges and history of injuries, including an ACL tear in 2023, further justify the load management strategy.

What Neymar needs to do to prove he is 2026 World Cup-worthy

Neymar’s absence from Santos mirrors his omission from Brazil’s March friendlies, which are the last preparation games before Ancelotti finalizes his World Cup squad on May 18. The 34-year-old forward, the Selecao’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, expressed his disappointment candidly.

“I’m upset and sad for not being picked by Ancelotti for the two friendlies. But my focus remains, day after day, training after training, match after match. We will reach our goal, there’s still the final squad,” he said.

Ancelotti has emphasized the importance of physical readiness over technical ability. The Italian manager remarked, “Neymar is not at 100 percent, and therefore he is not on the list. If he can be at 100 percent physically, he can be there. Neymar could be at the World Cup. Neymar has to keep working, playing, showcasing his qualities, and maintaining good physical condition.”

The pre-World Cup friendlies will provide a platform for emerging talents such as Endrick, Igor Thiago, and Rayan, while veterans like Marquinhos, Vinicius, and Casemiro provide leadership. For Neymar, the challenge is clear: he must prove his fitness and form in the limited time left to earn a place in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.

Carlo Ancelotti continues his preparation for a new challenge. As Brazil’s manager, the only expectation is for the country to win the World Cup soon. With friendly matches ahead, he will not have his starting goalkeeper available because Alisson got injured.

The Brazilian Confederation confirmed the news, stating that his absence forced the player to withdraw from participation. This comes at an unideal time, as Brazil has the final window of matches next week.

Alisson being out of the list opened the door for a new call-up. The decision made by the Italian manager was to give his place to Hugo Souza. With Liverpool’s player injury still unknown, the Corinthians goalkeeper joins the team. The spot in the lineup could go to Bento (Al-Nassr) or Ederson (Fenerbahçe).

Brazil’s friendlies

Teams are ahead of a great opportunity to see players that may be on the biggest stage in a few months. There should be some more friendlies approaching the World Cup, but those may already have the squads set.

The next step for the Brazilians should be very important as they are seeing another huge team like France in a match coming next Thursday, March 26, in Boston, where Gillette Stadium is located.

Days later Brazil should have one more test against Croatia on Tuesday, March 31, in Orlando, with Camping World Stadium as the place where fans can enjoy some of the best players in the world.

Liverpool’s side of the injury

While Brazil may be affected by Alisson’s injury, the most interested one can be Liverpool. The English club looks at this situation with some worries as the goalkeeper just returned from an injury that kept him out of the first leg against Galatasaray in the Champions League.

There isn’t any clarity as to when Alisson can be available again for manager Arne Slot, as he missed the trip to Brighton. The important thing comes right after the international break for some teams. Liverpool has Manchester City in the FA Cup as their next challenge before seeing PSG.

The race for goals continues to intensify as Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney dominate headlines, not only for their scoring exploits but also for what lies ahead on the international stage. With both forwards thriving at the club level, attention has now shifted toward how their form translates into opportunities with the national team, especially as the road to the 2026 World Cup begins to narrow.

Toney’s rise in the Saudi Pro League has been nothing short of remarkable, placing him firmly among the most prolific strikers in world soccer. Yet, despite his extraordinary numbers, uncertainty continues to surround his international future with the England national team.

Playing for Al-Ahli, Toney is enjoying the most productive campaign of his career. The English striker has amassed 34 goals and eight assists in 38 matches in all competitions, an astonishing return that underlines his consistency and sharpness in front of goal. This output surpasses his previous best season at Brentford, where he scored 33 goals in 52 appearances.

Now, in the Middle East, he has elevated his game even further, averaging more than a goal contribution per match. His performances have also been decisive in key moments. In the Saudi King’s Cup, Toney delivered a dramatic late equalizer against Al-Hilal to force extra time.

Although his team was eventually eliminated on penalties, he still finished as the competition’s top scorer with six goals in just four matches. In the league, the Englishman continues to lead the scoring charts, with 25 goals at a rate of nearly one per game, putting him in direct competition with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr for the Golden Boot.

England’s decision revealed

However, despite his impressive club form, Ivan Toney has been left out of England’s squad for the upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. This decision represents a significant setback in his pursuit of a World Cup place, especially given the timing.

With limited international windows remaining before the tournament, every opportunity to impress becomes crucial. The omission highlights the intense competition within the squad and suggests that Thomas Tuchel is still exploring alternative options in attack. Despite the 29-year-old’s goal-scoring exploits, he has yet to secure a consistent role under the current manager.

How it could impact Toney’s World Cup ambitions

As the World Cup approaches, Toney finds himself at a critical juncture. His outstanding form in Saudi Arabia has placed him among the elite forwards of the season, yet international recognition has not fully followed.

Toney’s ultimate ambition remains clear: securing a place in England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The striker has already earned seven caps for his country and was part of the squad during their run to the Euro 2024 final.

However, competition for places is fierce, particularly with Harry Kane firmly established as the first-choice striker. The battle for the backup role has become one of the most intriguing selection dilemmas for England manager Thomas Tuchel.

The future of Inigo Martinez at Al-Nassr has captured the attention of fans and teammates alike, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who could feel the impact of the defender’s decisions on the club’s dynamics. Martinez’s contract situation carries significant financial and sporting implications, and the suspense surrounding his next move has added intrigue to the closing stages of the Saudi Pro League season.

Martinez has enjoyed a pivotal role in Al-Nassr’s campaign, contributing to a defence that has kept the team competitive across domestic competitions. His consistency and leadership at the back make his contractual decisions a key talking point for the club’s ambitions and for star teammates like Ronaldo.

According to reports from Arriyadiyah, Martinez is now just three league matches away from triggering a contract extension clause. His current deal expires on June 30, but the contract includes a provision allowing a one-year automatic extension if he participates in 80% of Saudi Pro League matches, alongside his own approval.

So far this season, the Spanish veteran has appeared in 25 league matches, and with eight rounds remaining, he is on the cusp of meeting the required participation threshold. Should he complete the necessary games, the clause will give him the right to decide whether to activate the new contract, which would see him earn $15 million per season.

This mechanism puts the player in the driver’s seat. Not only does he need to reach the participation requirement, but he must also notify Al-Nassr’s management of his intention to stay, effectively giving him the final say in his future.

What’s the twist in Martinez’s situation?

Here’s where the situation becomes particularly interesting: the extension is not automatic upon reaching 80% of matches. It only activates if two conditions are met simultaneously: the participation threshold and Martinez’s explicit agreement to remain at the club, Arriyadiyah suggests.

In practical terms, the 34-year-old could meet the 80% target yet still choose not to extend, leaving Al-Nassr, and potentially Ronaldo and the squad, uncertain about next season’s defensive backbone. This dual condition has added a layer of strategic planning, as Martinez evaluates his options amid interest from other clubs and the team’s objectives in both domestic and continental competitions.

How Martinez’s decision could impact Al-Nassr and Ronaldo

For Cristiano Ronaldo, Martinez’s decision could impact squad stability and defensive coordination. Al-Nassr relies on the partnership between its marquee attacking players and a solid backline to compete for the Saudi Pro League title. Knowing whether the former La Liga stalwart will remain could influence tactical setups, transfer plans, and the broader approach to maintaining the club’s competitive edge.

Beyond the financial reward, the clause also underscores Martinez’s value to Al-Nassr. His $15 million-per-season deal reflects the club’s recognition of his importance and offers him leverage in shaping his professional future.

Milan heads into its Serie A clash with Torino on Saturday with plenty at stake, and all eyes will be on Christian Pulisic’s possible presence as he looks to end an extended scoring drought. With the Rossoneri reeling from a 1-0 defeat to Lazio last weekend, a win at San Siro is crucial to maintain their push for a Champions League spot, especially as Napoli is closing in on second place. Pulisic’s form, or lack thereof, has become a talking point alongside the tactical decisions of manager Massimiliano Allegri.

The American winger has struggled to replicate his best performances this season, particularly in 2026, as Milan attempts to consolidate its place in Serie A’s upper echelon. His last goal came 82 days ago, and with the team’s slim title hopes effectively over, regaining his scoring touch is a pressing concern.

Massimiliano Allegri‘s players’ recent slump has threatened their UEFA Champions League ambitions, with two defeats in four matches following a 24-game unbeaten streak. Allegri has highlighted the importance of this game against Torino, emphasizing the need for improvements across all areas of the pitch.

“Now we have everyone available; to play, we need to wake up. Everyone. Whoever has the ball has to see who’s unmarked,” he said. “Pulisic is doing well; in terms of physical condition, he put in a good performance in Rome. He lacks accuracy in his shots, but he’ll find it again.”

Tensions within the squad also surfaced last week, with reports of a minor fallout between Pulisic and Rafael Leao over missed passes. The Italian manager has since calmed the situation, but the duo’s performances remain under scrutiny as Milan welcomes the Turin side at San Siro.

Will Pulisic play?

The biggest question surrounding this match has been whether Christian Pulisic will play and how he will be used. In fact, Pulisic will start alongside Niclas Fullkrug in attack.

The American winger’s calendar year has been below expectations. He has now gone 82 days without scoring, leaving fans eager to see him rediscover his form. Earlier this season, he impressed against Torino, scoring a brace in a 3-2 victory, which suggests he is capable of a repeat performance.

“It is unusual for Pulisic to struggle so much. Across his time at San Siro, he has never faced these issues,” notes Tuttosport. “Questions need to be asked of the cause, but the effect speaks for itself. A turnaround is needed soon.”

The upcoming fixture represents a critical opportunity for Pulisic to end his goal drought and reassert his value to Milan, especially in light of internal dynamics with Leao and the pressing need to secure Champions League qualification.

Milan vs Torino: Confirmed lineups

Milan confirmed XI (3-5-2): Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Pulisic, Fullkrug.

Torino confirmed XI (3-4-1-2): Paleari; Coco, Ismajli, Ebosse; Pedersen, Prati, Gineitis, Obrador; Vlašić; Simeone, Zapata. 

This week, the soccer world was shaken by CAF’s decision to award the Africa Cup of Nations final to Morocco, handing Senegal a defeat. As a result, the FIFA Ranking could be reshaped, particularly impacting Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.

In the latest FIFA Rankings update, Morocco moved up three places to eighth, ahead of traditional powers such as Germany, Italy, Belgium and Croatia. However, that rise could become even more significant once the revised result of the AFCON final is factored in.

Going from runners-up to African champions will allow Morocco to gain an additional 26 points in the rankings. With a total of 1,763 points, they would climb three more spots into the top five for the first time in their history—and the first time for an African national team—trailing only Spain, Argentina, France and England.

That rise will come at the expense of some of the world’s top national teams. Vinicius’ Brazil (1,760), Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal (1,760) and the Netherlands (1,756) would all drop one place in the standings.

Senegal to lose points

Just as Morocco stand to benefit significantly from CAF’s decision in the FIFA Rankings, the opposite will be true for Senegal. Not only would they lose the AFCON title, but they would also fall in the standings.

In the latest update, Senegal had been one of the biggest risers, climbing seven spots to reach 12th place. However, much of that progress would be undone by the change in the final’s result.

The loss of 26 points from now being considered runners-up would see them drop several places in the FIFA Ranking. Their total would fall from 1,706 to 1,680 points, allowing Italy, Colombia and the USMNT to overtake them. Senegal, with that reduction, would slip to 15th place.

CAF decision could still be overturned

All of these potential changes in the FIFA Ranking depend, of course, on whether CAF’s ruling on the AFCON 2025 final stands. In that regard, Senegal still have a path to appeal, and reports indicate they plan to pursue it by taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland in an attempt to have the title reinstated.

Bruno Guimaraes was reportedly in talks to join Premier League giants Manchester United in a multi-million-dollar deal, but the move could collapse due to Real Madrid emerging as a potential competitor.

“Manchester United are in advanced talks to sign Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes,” Reuters reported, detailing a fee close to €80 million (approximately $92 million). “But renewed interest from Real Madrid threatens to complicate the proposed move.”

The Red Devils are searching for a midfielder who can fill the void left by Casemiro, whose contract expires on June 30 and who has already stated he does not intend to renew for next season.

In fact, the former Real Madrid midfielder is reportedly behind Manchester United’s interest in Bruno, whom he knows well from their time together with the Brazil national team. “Casemiro has personally recommended Guimaraes as his ideal successor, citing his experience and leadership,” Reuters added.

Real Madrid also need midfield reinforcements

Just as Manchester United are set to lose Casemiro in the near future, Real Madrid are still looking to replace two legends who left the club in recent years: Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. Adding to that is the potential departure of Eduardo Camavinga, for whom Los Blancos are reportedly willing to listen to offers.

“Guimaraes has long been admired by the Spanish side, dating back to the Carlo Ancelotti era. The Italian coach recommended him three years ago as a successor to Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in Real’s midfield and the player came close to joining the club,” Reuters reported.

That deal fell through in the summer of 2022, when Newcastle United paid more than $50 million to Olympique Lyonnais to sign the Brazilian midfielder. However, Guimaraes’ performances in the Premier League have reignited Real Madrid’s interest.

Guimaraes is a key piece for Brazil

Although the move to Newcastle United initially prevented Carlo Ancelotti from bringing Bruno Guimaraes to Real Madrid, the two were reunited with the Brazil national team. Since taking charge in the summer of 2025, the coach has given the midfielder a prominent role in his squad.

Guimaraes has been included in every roster selected by Carlo Ancelotti since June of last year, across both World Cup qualifiers and subsequent friendlies. In fact, he has started all eight of Brazil’s matches during that span, recording one goal and two assists. That makes him one of the virtually certain names in the 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

England has a major matchup this weekend between two of the country’s best teams. While the Premier League title race seems headed to London, Manchester City is looking to lift the Carabao Cup trophy on Sunday. At the pre-match press conference, Pep Guardiola was asked about Arsenal’s tactics, especially on set pieces like corner kicks.

Guardiola said: “Dark arts? When someone does something like that, the referees must stop it. Or people behind stage. Look what happens in the world. We are in the middle of chaos, and nobody moves a finger. The world is going to collapse, and we are talking about whether a team uses dark arts. There are more important things than that.”

Manchester City could be one win away from its best chance at a title this season. It is still in the Premier League race, but trails Arsenal by nine points with one game in hand. The Champions League is no longer an option after its elimination against Real Madrid. In the FA Cup, it faces Liverpool in the quarterfinals.

Guardiola on his relationship with Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta has become a key part of Arsenal’s future over the past few years, despite a rough start at the club. His team’s playing style is not exactly what he saw up close while working as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, which created a good match for fans.

The rivalry between these clubs has grown more intense every time they meet. Things between the Spanish managers do not seem especially warm either, though Guardiola kept things simple by praising Arteta’s team.

Guardiola said: “I don’t have time to go to London, and I don’t think he has time to come to Manchester with four competitions. They control many aspects of the game after years without titles. That has given them an edge. They are organized, they defend deep, they have a good build-up. They are an exceptional team.”

Guardiola on the AFCON controversy

This week also brought a different controversy in the sport. Senegal had been crowned AFCON champions after beating Morocco 1-0 in the final. However, the African Confederation decided to award the title to the losing team because the winning side had briefly left the field in protest.

Guardiola said: “It was a surprise. I don’t know the reason, but it seems the decision was taken behind the scenes, as happens everywhere. What we see happens all over the world. In soccer and in other places.”

This Friday, England announced their squad for the March FIFA international break and, although Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman was not included, head coach Thomas Tuchel admitted he is considering him for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“He’s a fantastic talent,” Tuchel said during Friday’s press conference, according to reporter Fabrizio Romano on his official X account. “We still have a chance to call him for the World Cup.”

However, the head coach clarified that he preferred not to include him at this stage: “At the moment he competes for minutes so he’s not a regular starter for Arsenal. He is in the best environment possible, he has to keep going. No need to call him up now and increase the pressure.”

The English attacking midfielder is currently one of the breakout stars in European soccer due to his performances with the Gunners. In fact, just a few days ago he became the youngest player to score a goal in Premier League history after netting in a 2-0 win over Everton.

Who are the youngest players to feature in a World Cup?

If Thomas Tuchel decides to include him in the 26-man squad that will represent England at North America 2026, Max Dowman would become the youngest player in history to appear in a FIFA World Cup.

By the time the Three Lions make their debut in the tournament this summer, on June 17 against Croatia, Dowman would be just 16 years and 169 days old. That would place him at the top of the all-time list by a significant margin.

At present, the record belongs to Norman Whiteside of Northern Ireland, who made his debut at the 1982 World Cup aged 17 years and 41 days in a match against Yugoslavia. He is followed by Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o (17 years, 99 days in 1998) and Nigeria’s Femi Opabunmi (17 years, 101 days in 2002).

England’s squad for the March FIFA international break

Beyond Max Dowman’s situation, Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the matches against Uruguay and Japan in March includes a notable omission: Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has stood out in recent weeks with Real Madrid. The coach addressed the decision clearly: “I know what Trent can give us and I decided still to stick to the players with us,” Tuchel said, referring to Tino Livramento, Djed Spence and Jarell Quansah.

Among the main inclusions in the squad is the return of Jude Bellingham, who has been dealing with physical issues that affected his appearances for Real Madrid. Also included are Manchester United players Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo, as well as Manchester City defender John Stones.

The military conflict in the Middle East led to the cancellation of the Finalissima that was set for Qatar. The match between Spain and Argentina, featuring Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, was expected to be a major showcase, but it was ultimately called off. Luis de la Fuente pointed to their opponents as the reason in a press conference.

De la Fuente said: “Everybody knows my disposition was to play the Finalissima. I have always said it. Playing against Argentina, winning a title. Me and the RFEF (Real Federación Española de Fútbol) were aligned to play this match. Two don’t play if one doesn’t and we wanted to play. We wanted to play in Doha, in Buenos Aires…”

Talks between the federations began once it was confirmed that the Middle East was not an option. Several European capitals were mentioned, but the executives did not agree on the conditions needed to make it happen.

Spain’s alternative plan

Once the Finalissima was confirmed to be off, the RFEF moved to give de la Fuente more opportunities to evaluate players. The European champions are set to face Serbia on March 27 as the replacement for the canceled match.

The manager had planned to use the pair of games to reconnect with the squad, since they have not been together since November. Another important African team, Egypt, completes the window on March 30.

De la Fuente said: “I want to thank the Federation for trying to play against Argentina and for the two matches we are playing now. It was a peculiar match. We wanted to play it with the players that are going to give us a chance in the World Cup. It was important to get this window back.”

De la Fuente on calling four goalkeepers

Spain have had a strong goalkeeper for some time, with Unai Simón giving the team confidence under the posts. The Athletic Club player was joined by Arsenal’s David Raya and Real Sociedad’s Álex Remiro recently, and Barcelona’s Joan García was also added.

De la Fuente said: “He’s a great goalkeeper that we have known for a long time. He’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He can provide confidence, work, professionalism, quality, competitiveness. He’s going to challenge the rest to give their best. I don’t see it as a problem. It’s great news.”

In recent weeks, Argentina faced uncertainty regarding their fixtures for the March international break, following the cancellation of the Finalissima. On Friday, the friendly against Mauritania was confirmed, likely marking Lionel Messi’s last game on home soil before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“The team led by Lionel Scaloni is beginning to say farewell to their fans before departing to defend the World Cup title. On Friday, 27 March, at La Bombonera, the Argentina national team will take on Mauritania,” the Argentine Football Association said in a statement published on its official website.

The choice of Mauritania came from the need to find an opponent on short notice, after the Finalissima against Spain was cancelled and efforts to arrange friendlies against Honduras and Guatemala fell through.

Argentina had planned to play those two Central American national teams during the March international break in Buenos Aires, but the fact that both Honduras and Guatemala were scheduled to play matches in Europe during the same window made it impossible. FIFA rules prohibit a national team from competing on two continents during the same international break.

One of Messi’s last matches in Argentina

As AFA noted when confirming that the friendly against Mauritania will serve as something of a farewell to the country before the World Cup, it will also be one of Lionel Messi’s final opportunities to play in front of local fans.

In fact, Argentina’s 3‑0 win over Venezuela in the World Cup qualifiers in September 2025 was his last official match on Argentine soil. Messi scored twice in that game in Buenos Aires, in what was widely described as his final competitive home appearance for the national team before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

It’s likely that Scaloni’s team will not return to Argentina before the World Cup, as the next FIFA international break falls just before the start of the tournament and the squad will already be based in the United States for that period.

What about Mauritania?

It is clear that for Lionel Scaloni’s planning, facing Mauritania will not be the same as what the match against Spain in the Finalissima would have represented. Far from the level of challenge presented by playing the European champions, their newly confirmed opponent will pose a much smaller test.

Mauritania have never qualified for a World Cup. In fact, in the African qualifiers for this summer’s FIFA tournament, they managed only one win in 10 matches. Mauritania currently occupy 115th place in the FIFA rankings.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to redefine soccer greatness, now locked in a historic race toward the elusive 1,000-goal milestone. With both icons still active at the highest level, the possibility of seeing two players reach such a landmark has transformed the final years of their careers into a global spectacle.

The clubs they represent and the national teams they lead remain central to this story, as every goal adds weight to a legacy already unmatched in the history of the sport. Just before diving deeper into the numbers, one key detail has emerged: statistics suggest Lionel Messi could reach the 1,000-goal milestone toward the end of his current contract period, potentially around the late 2028 season or early 2029, depending on form and fitness.

The Argentine reached his 900th career goal during Inter Miami’s clash against Nashville, becoming only the second player in history to achieve the feat after Cristiano Ronaldo. The milestone came in the 7th minute, with a signature left-footed finish that once again highlighted his precision and composure in front of goal.

Despite the historic moment, the night ended on a bittersweet note. Inter Miami was eliminated from the competition after a 1-1 draw on aggregate, with Nashville advancing on away goals. His journey to 900 goals spans more than two decades.

He scored 672 goals for Barcelona, 32 for Paris Saint-Germain, 81 for Inter Miami, and 115 for Argentina, showcasing remarkable consistency across every stage of his career.  His former teammate and current coach Javier Mascherano reflected on the achievement: “The number we’re talking about is insane, and that’s why Leo is a one of a kind.”

Who hit 900 goals faster?

Cristiano Ronaldo remains the benchmark in goalscoring history. The Portuguese forward currently leads with 964 career goals, continuing his pursuit of the 1,000 mark while playing at the highest level.

Notably, the Portuguese superstar reached 900 goals in 1,236 matches, while Messi achieved the same milestone in just 1,142 appearances, nearly 100 games fewer. The rivalry between the two legends has shaped modern soccer. Although Ronaldo once stated that “the rivalry is gone,” their statistical battle continues to captivate fans worldwide.

When can Messi reach 1,000 goals?

The numbers suggest that Messi has a realistic path toward the historic milestone. Based on his current scoring rate of approximately 0.80 goals per game, he would need around 124 more matches to reach 1,000 goals. Since joining the Herons, Messi has averaged over 37 goals per year, maintaining elite productivity despite advancing age.

As per Marca’s recent analysis, if he sustains this level, he could reach the milestone within the next two to three years, making the dream increasingly tangible. However, variables remain. Injuries, playing time, and potential retirement decisions could all influence the timeline.

Meanwhile, ESPN suggests Messi will likely reach his 1,000th goal by the end of his contract in late 2028 if he continues his average goal threshold, as he has since joining Inter Miami. Given that the Argentine is almost two years and four months younger than Ronaldo, he has enough mathematical chance to pass him.

Match Overview

With the race for UEFA Champions League qualification heating up, Manchester United enter this matchup sitting third in the Premier League table, firmly in control of their own destiny. The Red Devils are coming off an impressive 3-1 victory over Aston Villa, a direct competitor in the top-four battle, and appear to be hitting their stride at a crucial point in the season.

Meanwhile, AFC Bournemouth arrive with 41 points and plenty still to play for, hovering in mid-table but within reach of the European qualification spots, setting the stage for a matchup with significant implications on both ends of the standings—don’t miss what promises to be a pivotal clash.

The cancellation of the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain continues to spark controversy, with conflicting accounts of the true reasons behind the failure to schedule the match. Now, the Conmebol president has made a statement targeting the European team.

During an interview with Radio La Red of Argentina, a journalist asked Alejandro Dominguez whether he thought it was a shame that the Finalissima had been canceled. “Why do you think it’s a shame?” replied the Conmebol president. “We are two-time champions of the Finalissima, they didn’t show up.”

With these words, Dominguez places the responsibility for the cancellation on Spain and UEFA, echoing comments previously made by Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association, a few days earlier.

However, awarding the Finalissima title to Argentina is far from official. Formally, the match was suspended—with uncertainty about whether it will ever be played—and the trophy remains vacant. Regardless, Lionel Scaloni’s team remains the reigning champion following their victory over Italy in 2022.

Spain have a different version of what happened with the Finalissima

Almost simultaneously with Alejandro Dominguez’s interview, Luis De La Fuente held a press conference in Spain ahead of the FIFA March international break. Among other topics, he was asked about the Finalissima and provided conclusions that were completely different from those presented in South America.

“Two can’t play if one doesn’t want to, and we wanted to play. I’ve always said that,” said Spain’s coach, according to Marca. “You all know my willingness to play the Finalissima. I’ve always said it. Playing against Argentina, winning a title. Both I and the RFEF were aligned to play this match.”

De La Fuente added that, despite the forced changes in organization due to the inability to play in Qatar, Spain were always open to contesting the Finalissima: “I want to thank the Federation for trying to arrange the match against Argentina… We wanted to play in Doha, in Buenos Aires…”

Argentina and Spain’s plans in March

Following the suspension of the Finalissima and the cancellation of the friendlies originally scheduled in Qatar, Argentina and Spain adopted similar solutions: staying in their own countries and trying to organise new friendly matches there.

Spain will face Serbia on 27 March at the Estadio de La Ceramica in Villarreal, and four days later they will play against Egypt at the RCDE Stadium in Espanyol de Barcelona. Argentina, meanwhile, had plans to play Honduras and Guatemala in Buenos Aires, but these matches are in doubt due to the impossibility of both opponents playing in two different continents during the same international break, something prohibited by FIFA.

Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham are at the center of attention as Real Madrid prepares for its crucial La Liga derby against Atletico Madrid. The stakes are high: Los Blancos sit just four points behind Barcelona, and any slip-up could intensify the pressure at the Bernabeu.

While Real Madrid’s squad has been heavily impacted by injuries, an encouraging update on Jude Bellingham gives hope for a boost in midfield, though the specifics of his availability remain under wraps.

After nearly six weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, Jude Bellingham has made a notable step in his recovery. “He did part of the training session with the rest of the group and is in with a chance of making the bench,” reports Diario AS.

This partial return marks a significant milestone, as Bellingham’s presence could provide both dynamism in attack and defensive stability against a typically compact Atletico side. However, caution remains. Los Blancos coach Alvaro Arbeloa is mindful of past lessons.

“While training with the group is a positive step, full match sharpness and resilience take time after a muscle injury,” he explained. The English midfielder previously made an accelerated comeback after shoulder surgery for a derby against Atletico, which ended in a 5-2 defeat, underscoring the risk of rushing players back too soon.

Injury woes still exist

Despite the positive updates, Real Madrid will be without several key players for the derby. Thibaut Courtois, Rodrygo, Ferland Mendy, Dani Ceballos, and Militao remain sidelined, although Militao’s return is imminent post-international break.

The Spanish boss will need to make careful decisions regarding starting lineups, especially with Bellingham’s match sharpness uncertain. While inclusion on the bench seems likely, a start could risk aggravating his thigh injury, and the team is unwilling to jeopardize the rest of the campaign.

Bellingham’s strategic implications for the Madrid derby

If the Englishman features, his vision and ability to arrive in key areas could be decisive in breaking down Atletico Madrid’s disciplined defensive setup. His return would also relieve the burden on other midfielders who have logged heavy minutes in recent fixtures.

Carreras and Asencio’s potential starts to strengthen Madrid’s defensive options, reducing reliance on a small core of players and allowing for better tactical flexibility.

As Arbeloa balances squad fitness with competitive necessity, the Madrid derby could see a blend of returning stars and cautious management, a strategy aimed at preserving form and avoiding setbacks ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures, including clashes against Mallorca and Bayern Munich.

The spotlight once again falls on Cristiano Ronaldo as Roberto Martinez has provided clarity over his fitness ahead of a crucial international period. With Portugal preparing for key warm-up matches, concerns around the veteran forward’s injury have sparked widespread debate, especially given his importance to both the club and the national team setup.

Despite the uncertainty, the message from the Portugal camp remains cautiously optimistic, even as Ronaldo misses out on the upcoming fixtures. The absence raises questions, but it also reflects a broader strategy focused on long-term fitness rather than short-term risk.

Portugal will head into its upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the United States without its captain, as Ronaldo continues his recovery from a muscle injury sustained while playing for Al-Nassr. The injury, picked up at the end of February, forced the 41-year-old to undergo treatment in Madrid. As a result, he has not recovered in time to participate in the matches scheduled in North America.

These games represent the final opportunity for the Portugal national team to fine-tune preparations before the World Cup squad is finalized. Yet, the decision to leave Ronaldo out highlights a cautious approach from the coaching staff. Martinez explained the reasoning behind the squad selection and the absence of key players: “We have players who are not ready. We have Ruben Dias, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Nelson Semedo, players who are not medically fit.”

Martinez reassures fans over World Cup concerns

Despite the absence, Martinez was quick to calm fears about Ronaldo’s long-term availability. The Portuguese coach made it clear that there is no risk of the forward missing the World Cup, emphasizing the minor nature of the injury. “No, he’s not in danger,” Martinez stated. “It’s a minor muscle injury.”

He also highlighted Ronaldo’s physical condition throughout the season as a key reason for optimism: “Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he’s in great shape.” These comments underline the confidence within the Portugal camp that their captain will return stronger, rather than rushing him back prematurely.

What’s more, the Selecao boss confirmed that the veteran superstar will make a full recovery within one to two weeks, putting him firmly on track for upcoming club and international commitments. This timeline suggests that the decision to exclude him from the friendlies is purely precautionary, ensuring he avoids aggravating the injury ahead of more important fixtures.

Calculated pause, not a setback

Ultimately, Ronaldo’s absence from the upcoming friendlies is less about concern and more about careful planning. Portugal, guided by Martinez, is prioritizing long-term success over short-term risk.

With a clear recovery timeline and strong reassurance from the coaching staff, the situation appears firmly under control. As the World Cup approaches, all signs point to Ronaldo returning in time to once again lead Portugal on the biggest stage.

Portugal has reached a final call on whether Cristiano Ronaldo will feature in the March international window, as the national team prepares for high-profile friendlies against the United States and Mexico. The fixtures, set to be played in North America, are part of early preparations for the 2026 World Cup, with the national team facing two host nations in quick succession.

The decision comes amid uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo’s fitness after a recent injury sustained while playing for Al-Nassr. The forward has been a regular presence under head coach Roberto Martinez, but has not featured in recent matches, raising questions about his readiness for international duty. His last appearance for the national team dates back to November 2025, when he was sent off in a World Cup qualifier against Ireland.

Portugal’s upcoming matches will take place at iconic venues, first facing Mexico at Estadio Azteca before traveling to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to meet Christian Pulisic‘s USMNT. These games offer a crucial early look at how the Selecao may shape its squad ahead of the World Cup, particularly as it balances experienced stars with emerging talent.

The suspense surrounding Ronaldo’s inclusion has now been resolved. Portugal has opted not to include the veteran forward in its squad for the March friendlies, confirming that his recovery timeline will keep him sidelined for the trip. “Cristiano is injured. He is not currently playing with Al-Nassr and has also been unable to take part in recent matches”, Martinez had said earlier, leaving the door open before the final call was made.

Despite earlier optimism, the injury, initially described as minor, proved significant enough to rule him out. Reports from club level indicated a more serious issue than first expected, requiring rest and treatment abroad.

Injury concerns and club context

Ronaldo’s setback dates back to late February, when he picked up a muscle injury during a match with Al-Nassr. Since then, he has been absent from action, focusing on recovery. “After the tests he underwent, it became clear that it is a more serious injury than we were expecting,” said Jorge Jesus. “He will need rest and recovery.”

The absence interrupts what has otherwise been a remarkable international run. Ronaldo remains the all-time leading scorer in men’s international soccer, with 143 goals in 226 appearances, and continues to target participation in a sixth World Cup.

What comes next for Portugal

Portugal’s clash with Mexico is scheduled for March 28, followed by a meeting with the United States on March 31. Both matches will serve as key preparation fixtures against top-level opposition.

While Ronaldo’s absence will be felt, the decision prioritizes long-term fitness over short-term availability, ensuring the veteran forward has the best chance of returning fully fit for future competitions.

Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo are at the center of a heated debate after Wayne Rooney suggested that Neymar was “never world-class.” The former Manchester United star questioned Neymar’s legacy despite his success at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Brazil, igniting controversy across the soccer world. In response, Brazilian legend Cafu clapped back boldly, defending Neymar and placing him above both Messi and Ronaldo in one key area.

Wayne Rooney’s comments have divided opinion globally. “I like Neymar, but I’ve never seen him as a top, top player. Like Messi, Ronaldo, that kind of category. He was good at Barcelona, but he was still overshadowed by Messi,” Rooney told The Overlap podcast.

Despite Neymar’s career being packed with trophies, including a treble with Barcelona and numerous titles with PSG, the Englishman argued that consistency at the very top level defines true greatness. “For me, he was never world-class. He had talent, but being world-class is about doing it consistently at the very top level,” the former striker added.

Fans quickly took to social media to defend the 34-year-old Santos star, highlighting his performances during his prime. Clips of the Brazilian’s incredible goals and assists in La Liga, Ligue 1, and the UEFA Champions League circulated widely, with many asserting that his peak arguably rivaled or even surpassed several Premier League legends.

What did Cafu say about Neymar?

Amid the controversy, Cafu, a two-time World Cup winner and former Brazil captain, offered a powerful defense of his compatriot’s abilities. Speaking on the Brazilian podcast Podpah, the 55-year-old claimed Neymar surpasses even Messi and Ronaldo in one crucial aspect of soccer.

“In my opinion, Neymar is better than Messi. Maybe Messi’s commitment is different. But, of these latest generations, Neymar is better than everyone, than Messi, than Cristiano. [He] has more resources, without a doubt. His technical quality beats either of them,” Cafu stated.

The former defender emphasized that his comparison is rooted in pure ability rather than achievements, highlighting Neymar’s extraordinary skill set and creativity on the pitch. While the GOAT duo have defined an era through consistency and trophies, Cafu values the Brazilian forward’s capacity to produce moments of brilliance and unlock defenses in ways few can match.

The importance of being fit

Cafu also addressed Neymar’s ongoing absence from Brazil’s squad. He believes the forward’s inclusion is essential if he is fully fit. “If he’s doing well, he fits into any national team in the world. That’s a fact. There’s no debate about Neymar when he’s at his best,” Cafu explained.

He further highlighted the challenge Neymar faced over his international career: “For 15 years, he had no one at his level to share the responsibility.” Neymar’s fitness and form are now crucial, not just for club success at Santos, but for Brazil’s preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Cristiano Ronaldo and James Rodriguez once again find themselves at the center of global soccer attention, as Colombia’s latest squad decision sparks intrigue ahead of the 2026 World Cup preparations. With the Portuguese icon preparing for another major international stage and the Colombian playmaker navigating a difficult spell at club level, the spotlight intensifies on how both stars will shape the months leading up to the tournament.

The narrative extends beyond individual form. The club situation and the national team expectation now collide, especially for Rodriguez, whose recent struggles have raised questions about his readiness for elite competition.

As the squad announcement became official, it was confirmed that James Rodriguez will return to lead Colombia in the upcoming pre-World Cup friendlies, signaling continued trust from the national team setup despite recent setbacks.

Rodriguez’s recent move to Minnesota United in Major League Soccer was initially seen as a fresh start. However, his debut turned into a nightmare as the club suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat to Vancouver Whitecaps, overshadowing his long-awaited return to competitive action. The Colombian midfielder entered the match late, with the result already beyond reach, limiting his ability to influence the game.

Concerns about his fitness have also persisted. Rodriguez had gone nearly four months without a competitive appearance before his return, raising doubts about his sharpness ahead of a crucial international window. Minnesota’s coach Cameron Knowles addressed the situation carefully, explaining, “Hard game to come into. With the game being 1-0, and also having him sat there for 75 minutes, having not played and one week of full training, I don’t think that was the ideal circumstances to bring him into.”

Colombia shows faith in its captain

Despite those struggles, Colombia’s head coach Nestor Lorenzo has made a decisive call by including Rodriguez in the squad for the upcoming friendlies against Croatia and France. This move underscores the continued importance of the veteran midfielder to the national team.

The 34-year-old remains the symbolic and tactical leader of Colombia, a player whose experience and vision are still considered vital as the team builds toward the World Cup. Joining him in the squad are key attacking figures like Luis Diaz and Luis Suarez, forming a balanced group that blends experience with emerging talent. The matches against Croatia and France are expected to provide a strong test of Colombia’s readiness.

Race against time for fitness

The 2026 World Cup is already generating unprecedented global demand, with FIFA confirming over 500 million ticket requests during a single application phase. FIFA president Gianni Infantino highlighted the scale of interest, stating: “Half a billion ticket requests in just over a month is more than demand – it’s a global statement.”

Among the most anticipated fixtures is the group-stage clash between Portugal and Colombia. This matchup, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and James Rodriguez, has become the most requested game of the tournament, underlining the enduring appeal of both players.

With the World Cup fast approaching, Rodriguez faces a tight timeline to regain peak condition. The tournament begins in June, leaving him with limited opportunities to build rhythm and match fitness. At club level, the immediate focus is clear. He must secure consistent minutes with Minnesota United, starting with upcoming league fixtures, to prove he can still perform at the highest level.

Keylor Navas has been one of the standout performers at Pumas UNAM since signing with the club in July 2025, but with his current deal nearing its expiration, his future in Mexico is increasingly uncertain. Against that backdrop, reports have emerged linking the goalkeeper with a potential reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.

With the Liga MX Clausura well underway, Navas has been one of the key reasons Pumas currently sit in playoff position in fifth place, averaging 4.3 saves per game and leading the league with 2.95 goals saved according to SofaScore. But with contract extension talks failing to gain traction with the club’s front office, the Herons have moved to take advantage of the situation.

According to Esto en Línea, Inter Miami are the frontrunners to sign Navas on a free transfer. The club’s goal is to bring in the three-time Champions League winner to add elite international experience to the goalkeeping department.

The move would also mark a reunion between Navas and Messi, who shared a locker room at PSG from 2021 to 2023 and built a strong relationship during that time. That personal connection could prove to be a significant factor in tipping the negotiations in Inter Miami’s favor.

Keylor Navas ‘has nothing to sign’

Since arriving at Pumas, Navas has been an ever-present between the posts, featuring in all 29 matches and establishing himself as one of the most important players in the squad. In an interview with Kery News on YouTube, the Costa Rican admitted to being happy in Mexico but revealed that he has yet to receive any concrete offer to stay:

“My contract expires at the end of the season. If it had been up to me—if they had approached me back in December—I would have signed a renewal without any problem. But the truth is, I have nothing to sign. The club has not made me any offer, nor have they even approached me to talk. So, I’m moving forward with my life and giving my best for Pumas because I am just another ‘Puma’; I identify with the team, the fans, and its culture,” Navas said back in late February.

Could Inter Miami land Navas?

With Inter Miami now eliminated from the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup, MLS competition will be their sole focus in the first half of the season before the World Cup reshapes the calendar. For the second half, the Herons appear to have Navas firmly in their sights, with his contract expiring in June and the MLS secondary transfer window opening between July 13 and September 3.

The departures of goalkeepers Óscar Ustari and William Yarbrough last season left the club with openings to fill, and Inter Miami moved in the winter window to sign Dayne St. Clair and Luis Barraza alongside the permanent return of Rocco Ríos Novo. Adding Navas to that group would inevitably create a surplus, with St. Clair in particular under scrutiny after struggling to replicate the form he showed at Minnesota United.

From a financial standpoint, however, the move makes considerable sense. Inter Miami would not need to pay a transfer fee, and the club still holds the international roster slot acquired from the New England Revolution that is set to return for the upcoming window, meaning there is a clear and plausible pathway for the former PSG teammate of Messi to make his way to South Florida.

Beyond Galatasaray‘s elimination from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16, the tie was also marked by a deeply concerning injury to Noa Lang in his thumb. The episode against Liverpool has prompted the Turkish club to pursue legal action in search of compensation.

Wednesday’s second leg at Anfield saw Liverpool deliver a dominant 4-0 victory to complete the comeback in the Champions League. With the outcome largely settled, an incident in the 76th minute took a frightening turn when Lang lost his balance and tumbled over the advertising hoarding at the side of the pitch, catching his thumb on the board as he fell.

When reporters on the other side of the hoarding asked if he was okay, Lang was visibly in severe pain, prompting medical staff to rush onto the field to attend to him. In a moment that left fans watching in horror, the Dutch winger was given oxygen before being stretchered off and taken directly to hospital. The following day, he offered a relieved update on social media: “Surgery went well! Thanks for all the messages.“

The full extent of the injury turned out to be far more graphic than television viewers initially realized, as Liverpool and Netherlands teammate Jeremie Frimpong revealed after the final whistle. “When I went to check on him, several people told me half of his finger had been torn off. He was in a lot of pain,” Frimpong said.

Galatasaray looking for compensation after Lang’s injury

Galatasaray confirmed that Lang had undergone surgery for a severe laceration to his right-hand thumb, with the injury expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks. Given that the Turkish club brought Lang in on loan for the remainder of the season, losing him to injury for an extended period represents a significant sporting and financial blow, and the club is now moving to seek accountability for what it views as a venue-related failure.

Galatasaray sporting director Eray Yazgan outlined the club’s intentions in an interview with HTSpor following the elimination. “We filed a complaint with UEFA representatives after the match. They have also conducted their own investigations and will evaluate what happened.”

“We are in talks with lawyers. We will file a lawsuit for compensation with UEFA. We will ask for our victimization in terms of salary to be eliminated,” Yazgan added. TRTSpor journalist Özgür Buzbaş subsequently illustrated how the incident unfolded, highlighting the gap between the perimeter fence and the advertising boards and explaining how that specific setup contributed to the severity of the injury.

Galatasaray’s complaint is expected to cite UEFA’s Stadium Infrastructure Regulations in relation to Lang’s injury and the conditions that allowed it to occur. The ultimate determination, however, will rest with UEFA, which will need to assess whether the advertising board was defective or improperly installed, constituting negligence, or whether the incident was simply an unfortunate accident with no structural fault involved.

Neymar has once again been left out of the Brazil national team squad, this time for the March international window. Despite his exclusion from what amounts to the penultimate squad before the World Cup roster is finalized, Barcelona and Brazil star Raphinha publicly threw his weight behind Neymar’s chances of making the final cut for the tournament.

Following Monday’s squad announcement, Neymar admitted to feeling “upset” by Ancelotti’s decision but vowed to keep pushing for a place at the World Cup. His cause has been taken up not only by fans but by teammates who are eager to see the Santos legend back in the fold.

Speaking at the post-match press conference after Barcelona’s game against Newcastle United on Wednesday, Raphinha was asked whether he wanted to see Neymar at the 2026 World Cup and gave a warm, unequivocal response: “I hope to see him. He’s an exceptional player-no one doubts his quality on the field or what he can do. He can decide a game, even a World Cup. As a fan, both on and off the pitch, I hope to see Neymar wearing the Brazil national team jersey again and playing the World Cup with us.“

Raphinha and Neymar formed one of Brazil’s most productive attacking partnerships during Neymar’s final appearances for the Seleção in 2023, with Raphinha operating from the right flank while the then-Al Hilal forward pulled the strings in behind the striker. The contrast between the two today could hardly be more stark, with Raphinha firmly established as one of the best attackers in world football, while Neymar’s sole focus remains simply getting fit enough to be considered.

With Brazil set to face France and Croatia in the United States, Raphinha left no doubt about what he believes Neymar can bring to those kinds of high-stakes matchups. “I believe for these friendlies he doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone about his talent, about what he can contribute to out national team. I believe that in the final call up he’ll be there with us so we can pursue our goal, which is the championship,” the winger stated.

Neymar faces shift at Santos ahead of World Cup preparation

In the game immediately following his Brazil snub, Neymar responded with a penalty goal against Internacional in Matchday 7 of the Brasileirão. However, Santos fell to a 2-1 home defeat, and the club’s executives moved swiftly afterward to relieve head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda of his duties.

On Thursday, March 19, Santos announced they had reached an agreement to bring in Cuca as their new head coach for the remainder of the season. The legendary Brazilian manager will be embarking on his fourth stint at the club, having previously led Santos in 2008, 2018 and across the 2020-21 campaign.

Under new management, Neymar faces a reshuffled environment at Santos, with 15 games remaining across all competitions before Ancelotti announces his final World Cup squad in May. As was the case last season, Santos find themselves in relegation trouble, currently sitting 16th in the Brasileirão with six points from seven games, and the club’s hierarchy is clearly hoping a change in the dugout can turn the tide, particularly with continental competition also on the agenda this year.

In the annals of the UEFA Champions League, few players have been as lethal in front of goal as Robert Lewandowski, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Each has carved out a legacy not just with volume of goals, but with consistency against a wide array of opponents. Yet a closer look at the data reveals intriguing differences in which clubs have conceded to these stars and which have proven elusive.

Polish striker Robert Lewandowski tops the list in terms of the sheer breadth of opposition, having scored against 41 different clubs in Europe’s premier competition. His goalscoring spread is remarkable, spanning powerhouse teams like Real Madrid and Barcelona, as well as clubs from smaller leagues such as Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) and Dinamo Zagreb.

Lewandowski’s consistency is evident not only in top-tier clashes but also in mid-tier European fixtures, reflecting his adaptability to different styles and defenses. This breadth gives him an edge over even Messi and Ronaldo when considering the variety of clubs scored against.

Messi: Close but with some blind spots

Lionel Messi has found the net against 40 different clubs, just one shy of Lewandowski’s total. The Argentine’s scoring has been weighted toward elite European competition.

However, Messi never scored against clubs such as Crvena Zvezda, Dinamo Zagreb, Olympiakos, or Salzburg, all of which Lewandowski has found the net against. Similarly, Messi has scored less frequently against certain elite sides, including Real Madrid (2 goals), highlighting that even the best can face selective resistance.

Ronaldo: Mix of volume and elite focus

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored against 38 clubs, slightly fewer than both Lewandowski and Messi. Yet the Portuguese star’s scoring has often been weighted toward high-profile opponents and repeated encounters in the latter stages of the Champions League.

Where Ronaldo diverges from Lewandowski is in the smaller or mid-tier clubs on his list. Clubs like Crvena Zvezda, Dinamo Zagreb, and Olympiakos, which Lewandowski has exploited multiple times, remain largely untouched by Ronaldo’s scoring.

Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele have been included, while Kingsley Coman misses out, as Didier Deschamps names his France squad for the final pre-2026 World Cup friendlies. The decision has drawn significant attention, particularly given Mbappe’s recent injury struggles, but the France manager has shown confidence in his captain ahead of key clashes against Brazil and Colombia.

As France enters a decisive stage in its World Cup preparations, the squad reflects both continuity and calculated risk, blending experienced stars with emerging talents. Mbappe’s presence, alongside Dembele’s attacking flair, ensures firepower remains intact, while Coman’s absence marks one of the most notable omissions from the list.

Les Bleus will face Brazil and Colombia in the United States later this month, in what represents the final opportunity for Didier Deschamps to assess his squad before naming his official World Cup selection on May 13. These fixtures are not merely friendlies; they are crucial tests against elite opposition.

Mbappe, who recently returned from a knee injury, is expected to lead the line despite limited recent playing time. The Real Madrid forward had missed five consecutive matches before making a substitute appearance in the Champions League against Manchester City, signaling his gradual return to fitness.

Alongside him, Ousmane Dembele strengthens the attacking unit, while players such as Hugo Ekitike and Rayan Cherki provide additional depth. Meanwhile, Randal Kolo Muani earns a recall despite inconsistent club form, benefiting from injuries to other forwards.

What did Deschamps say about Mbappe?

Midway through the squad announcement discussions, Didier Deschamps addressed the biggest talking point: Mbappe’s inclusion despite fitness concerns. “The protocol was respected. I was in regular contact with Kylian,” the manager explained. “There was no obligation for him to be present, but from his side, it was clear he wanted to be there with us as a player.”

The France coach firmly dismissed any external pressure behind the decision, adding: “It’s not true that he was forced to come for marketing purposes, he wanted to be here for these matches.”

Deschamps emphasized that the 27-year-old’s condition will be closely monitored, especially following his club fixture against Atletico Madrid. “We’ll see what happens this weekend… how he feels, and based on that, we intend for all selected players to get minutes,” he added. This measured approach highlights the importance of balancing player fitness with competitive readiness, particularly as France aims to peak at the World Cup.

Key inclusions and notable omissions

Beyond Mbappe, the inclusion of Dembele reinforces France’s attacking depth, while the absence of Kingsley Coman stands out. Injuries and tactical decisions have reshaped the squad, opening doors for others to step in.

Goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier’s selection has also raised eyebrows. Despite losing his starting place at Paris Saint-Germain, Deschamps has backed him to rediscover form. “It has happened to me often… to offer them a helping hand. It’s part of building trust,” the coach said. “This situation isn’t ideal for him, but he hasn’t lost his value.”

In defense, the return of Pierre Kalulu adds stability following injuries to other players, while the midfield remains anchored by established names like Eduardo Camavinga, N’Golo Kante, and Aurelien Tchouameni.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains at the center of attention as Al-Nassr weighs a major decision regarding Jorge Jesus’ future, with the Portuguese striker closely linked to the club’s long-term direction. As one of soccer’s most influential figures, Ronaldo’s presence continues to shape not only the team on the pitch but also its strategic planning behind the scenes. Alongside him, Jorge Jesus has been guiding the club with experience and ambition, creating a partnership that could define the next phase of Al-Nassr’s evolution.

The situation has sparked widespread speculation, not only within Saudi soccer but also across Europe, as both figures carry significant weight in the global game. Their professional paths could remain intertwined beyond club level, especially with discussions already emerging about potential roles after the 2026 World Cup.

At present, Cristiano Ronaldo leads the line for Al-Nassr while Jorge Jesus commands from the sidelines, forming a powerful duo that has elevated the club’s ambitions. Their collaboration has been seen as a key factor in Al-Nassr’s pursuit of domestic and continental success. However, the club’s long-term strategy appears deeply tied to Ronaldo’s own plans.

Earlier reports from Saudi Arabia suggest that nearly every major decision, ranging from squad planning to managerial stability, hinges on whether the Portuguese superstar remains at the club. This level of influence underscores Ronaldo’s unique role, extending far beyond his performances on the pitch.

The decision on Jorge Jesus revealed

Midway through the growing speculation, clarity has finally emerged regarding Jorge Jesus’ immediate future. According to Arriyadiyah, Al-Nassr has decided to renew Jorge Jesus’ contract for one additional season, ensuring continuity within the club’s structure. At the same time, the Portuguese manager has turned down an offer from Brazilian side Cruzeiro, choosing instead to remain in Saudi Arabia and continue his project with Al-Nassr.

This development reflects mutual trust between the club and the coach. By extending his stay, Jesus signals his commitment to the ongoing project, while the Riyadh side demonstrates confidence in his leadership. The decision also aligns with the broader strategy centered around Ronaldo, reinforcing stability at a critical moment.

Portugal ambitions loom in the background

While the immediate focus remains on Al-Nassr, Jorge Jesus’ long-term ambitions extend beyond club soccer. According to reports, the experienced manager has identified the Portugal national team as his ultimate goal following the 2026 World Cup. Currently, the national side is led by Roberto Martinez, whose tenure is expected to run through the tournament.

After that, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) is likely to reassess its direction, potentially opening the door for a new managerial era. For Jesus, such an opportunity would represent the pinnacle of his career. After decades of managing clubs across multiple continents, leading Portugal would offer a chance to guide some of the world’s best players on the international stage, possibly including Cristiano Ronaldo, depending on his future with the national team.

Despite ongoing speculation about a possible move to the Portugal national team, there have been no formal negotiations between the 71-year-old manager and the Selecao, according to recent reports from the Middle East. This suggests that, for now, the focus remains firmly on Al-Nassr.

Barcelona rolled past Newcastle in the Champions League round of 16 with a 7-2 win that erased any doubt left after the first leg. In the match, Marc Bernal scored a goal that moved him ahead of Lionel Messi and put him just behind Lamine Yamal in a goalscoring record.

Bernal became the third-youngest player in Barcelona history to score in a knockout-stage match, doing it at 18 years and 296 days old. That puts him behind Yamal, who sits in second place after scoring at 17 years and 241 days.

The record for Barcelona’s youngest scorer in a Champions League knockout match may surprise some. That honor belongs to Bojan Krkic, whose early promise saw him score at 17 years and 271 days, still enough to keep the top spot.

Messi does not crack the top five

Messi broke almost every record there was to break, especially at Barcelona. His four Champions League titles were matched by 120 goals for the club in the competition. But his first goal in a knockout round came when he was 20 years and 241 days old, in a round-of-16 match against Celtic in which he scored twice.

The rest of the list includes some even more surprising names, with players ahead of major figures in the club’s history. In fourth place is Argentine Javier Saviola, who was 20 years and 119 days old when he scored his first knockout-stage goal.

Rounding out the top five is a player many may have forgotten because of his short spell at the club. That spot belongs to Cristian Tello, who scored at 20 years and 209 days for a team that has long been known for bringing through young talent.

Players who could join the list

La Masía is a global brand closely tied to Barcelona and the results speak for themselves, with academy products regularly reaching the first team. One current player who could move up the list is Pau Cubarsí, who is only 19. Roony Bardghji also looks like a name to watch at 20.

UEFA has called a meeting with the referee chiefs from Europe’s five major leagues (the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga and Ligue 1) to reassess the application of VAR. The overuse of the technology is the main concern and will be the central focus of discussions.

“I believe that we forgot the reason why VAR was introduced,” said Roberto Rosetti, UEFA’s head of refereeing, recently, according to BBC Sport. “In objective decisions, it is fantastic. For interpretations, subjective evaluation is more difficult. That’s why we started to speak about clear and obvious mistakes — clear evidence.”

Current concerns are focused on determining in which situations VAR intervention is justified and what level of strictness should be applied. The technology was originally introduced to eliminate clear errors that could change the course of a match — or even a tournament.

That is why the initial VAR guidelines were limited to the most decisive moments in soccer: whether the ball crossed the goal line, whether a penalty should be awarded, or whether a foul warranted a red card. However, over time, its scope has expanded, along with the growing expectation for greater precision in decision-making.

VAR continues to grow in influence across soccer

While UEFA appears focused on reducing VAR intervention to only the most important situations — and as minimally as possible — other governing bodies in soccer are moving in the opposite direction.

The International Football Association Board recently approved a series of rule changes set to take effect this year. Among them is an expansion of VAR usage into two situations that were previously outside its scope.

One involves second yellow cards leading to dismissals, which were originally not subject to review. VAR will now be allowed to check the second caution. The other involves corner kicks, which may now be reviewed in terms of whether they were correctly awarded, provided it does not cause excessive delays to the game.

European leagues with the highest and lowest VAR intervention rates

As UEFA looks to reduce VAR intervention, the Premier League appears to be the model to follow. England’s top flight has the lowest rate of VAR usage among Europe’s five major leagues, averaging 0.275 interventions per match. La Liga and the Bundesliga follow with 0.38. Serie A ranks fourth at 0.44, while France’s Ligue 1 records the highest usage, with VAR intervening 0.47 times per match.

The AFA appeared to have salvaged Argentina‘s March schedule with a pair of last-minute friendlies following the collapse of the Qatar tour and the Finalissima cancellation. But with fewer than 90 days until the World Cup kicks off, Lionel Messi and the Albiceleste have been left with nothing on the calendar, and the federation is now scrambling once again to find solutions.

Messi had been set to face Guatemala at La Bombonera on the 31st, with details of a potential second game against Honduras on the 27th also emerging in recent hours. However, since both Central American nations were already committed to friendlies in Europe during the same window, the arrangements ran into a FIFA regulation, and despite initial reports suggesting approval had been granted, both fixtures have now fallen through.

According to ESPN and Argentina insider Esteban Edul, both friendlies are officially off. While the specific reasons have not been disclosed, FIFA’s rule prohibiting a national team from playing on two different continents during the same international window appears to be the central sticking point.

In Guatemala’s case, Los Chapines had already arranged a friendly against Algeria, Argentina’s first-round World Cup opponent, to be played in Italy on March 27. Honduras, meanwhile, were set to travel to Spain to face Peru on the 31st. Both nations had one remaining slot available, which Argentina could theoretically have filled, but the intercontinental travel requirements made the logistics impossible under FIFA’s regulations.

What are the potential new rivals?

Back to square one, Argentina are set to begin their training camp at Ezeiza in the coming week with no friendly confirmed. Any new game would have to be played on home soil, which significantly limits the pool of available opponents given how many nations already have their schedules locked in.

According to Edul, AFA officials have now shifted their focus toward African national teams, racing against the clock to secure opponents for both March 27 and 31, with the players named in the squad set to begin arriving on Monday ahead of training.

One option that had been floated in local reports even before the Guatemala and Honduras deals fell through was a friendly against the Argentina Under-20 side. Messi’s national team did play against the youth squad on March 22, 2025, in a charity match held for fundraising purposes.

The prospect of the defending world champions being reduced to playing an internal game against their own Under-20 team, unable to arrange a fixture against any other national team, would represent a deeply uncomfortable moment for the AFA with the World Cup just around the corner.

Following his serious injury, Dani Carvajal does not seem to have fully recovered his level at Real Madrid, becoming a regular substitute. With his contract expiring, the Spaniard is expected to leave as a free agent. In response, Los Blancos are reportedly targeting Manchester United star Diogo Dalot and other two candidates to reinforce the right-back spot.

According to Alejandro Alcázar in Diario Sport, Real Madrid are targeting Diogo Dalot of Manchester United as one of their preferred options to reinforce the right-back position, with his transfer fee expected to be around €40 million. Alongside him, they are also considering Kyriani Sabbe, who has been shining at Club Brugge, with a potential fee of around €10 million.

Far from ending there, Los Blancos are also looking at Pedro Porro. However, the Spaniard would only arrive if Tottenham Hotspur are relegated, as he is considered untouchable by his current team, according to Diario Sport. Due to this uncertain scenario, the Portuguese propels as the main target.

While Dani Carvajal has been a standout at Real Madrid, he has not reached his usual performance level, and doubts have emerged about whether he can regain it. Nonetheless, Los Blancos are still waiting to see if he can return to his best over the remaining three months, so they are open to a short-term contract extension.

Trent Alexander-Arnold keeps disappointing at Real Madrid

Given Dani Carvajal’s veteran status, Real Madrid identified Trent Alexander-Arnold as their marquee reinforcement. However, the Englishman has not managed to establish as a solid full-back. Not only has he failed to make an impact offensively, but he has also struggled defensively, putting his starting role into question.

Unlike his time at Liverpool, the Englishman does not have an inverted full-back role, contributing in midfield. Instead, coach Álvaro Arbeloa looks for him to fulfill the same role as Carvajal: a full-back with wide range and defensive solidity. Therefore, Trent has stopped shining, as he is unable to adapt to his new role.

David Jimenez may emerge as an option for Real Madrid

Amid the injuries to Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid’s Álvaro Arbeloa turned to David Jiménez, an academy player, as a major alternative. At 22, the Spaniard delivered solid performances, but the veteran’s return sent him back to Real Madrid Castilla. However, he could reemerge as a key alternative.

If Los Blancos struggle to secure Dalot, Porro, or Sabbe, youngster Jiménez could again become a solid alternative at right-back, given his standout performances in LaLiga. Moreover, the Spaniard could even challenge Trent for the starting spot, as he contributes both defensively and offensively, reminiscent of Carvajal’s prime.

Real Madrid made a major investment when it agreed to pay $60 million for Endrick in a deal that became official in 2024. After a promising start, the Spanish club sent him on loan to Lyon so he could get more minutes.

Endrick explained the challenge of playing for Real Madrid in an interview with Winwin: “The sequence of matches is very important. It’s not the same to play 90 or 60 minutes as 30 or 15. It lets you take more risks and lowers the pressure of making mistakes. They always bring in young talent and fans want to see them right away, but sometimes that is not possible.”

Lyon were eliminated from the Europa League on Thursday in a surprising result against Celta. Even so, Endrick has been important to the team, including scoring a late goal in the first leg in Spain.

Endrick on his potential Real Madrid future

Signing a player like him from Palmeiras showed how much potential Real Madrid saw in him. That became even clearer when they loaned him to Lyon last December instead of selling him to several interested clubs.

The Brazilian has been a key player for manager Paulo Fonseca, with his movement across different positions in the lineup. He has scored six goals in 13 matches for his new club.

That suggests he may have a role when he returns to Real Madrid next season, but he is not thinking about that yet: “I haven’t talked to Álvaro Arbeloa. I’m focused on Lyon. I’m going to cheer for Real Madrid in the Champions League, but I’m committed to this club.”

Endrick’s chances with Brazil

Competition for a place in Brazil’s squad is fierce. High-profile names like Neymar may not even make the cut, while Raphinha and Vinicius appear to be locks. Even so, the forward trusts that his former manager Carlo Ancelotti will call him.

Endrick said about the Italian coach: “I learned a lot with him at Real Madrid. I scored in every competition we played. His job now is different, there is no day-to-day conversation, but I’m sure we can do something good. We can’t think about anything other than the title.”

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