Real Madrid are ending a very poor season with no trophies to show their fans. They are likely to lose La Liga to Barcelona either in next Sunday’s El Clásico or in the next few matches. The problems do not stop there, as there have been rumors about a fight involving Álvaro Carreras and Antonio Rüdiger.

Carreras addressed the issue in the final paragraph of his statement: “About the incident with a teammate, it was about a specific subject with no relevance that has already been solved. My relationship with the entire team is really good.”

The left back also responded to criticism of his professionalism: “In the last few days, insinuations about my professionalism and comments about me that are not true have emerged. My commitment to this club and the managers I have had has been intact since the first day.”

His continuity with the club looks like his priority, as he said: “Since I came back to the club, I have always worked with professionalism, respect and dedication. I fought hard to fulfill the dream of returning home.”

Rüdiger reportedly slapped Carreras

Results have not been ideal for Real Madrid. A club used to winning every match has not been able to replicate its usual success. This led to frustration among the fans, but also among the players.

A report from Spanish radio Onda Cero said that Rüdiger slapped Carreras in a heated altercation during a training session after Real Madrid’s victory over Alavés and before the draw with Betis.

This was one of many reports about misconduct by Rüdiger lately, including a dispute involving him and Josip Stanišić after Real Madrid were eliminated by Bayern Munich. The Athletic also reported an incident involving an unnamed player that led to an apology to his teammates.

Carreras’ numbers with Real Madrid

When Real Madrid made the 50 million euro investment to sign Carreras from Benfica, it was seen as a very good move. However, the left back has not been the same player the club thought they were signing. Carreras played 38 matches and scored two goals, but more importantly, he was never a factor for the team.

There is no doubt that Lamine Yamal will be one of the main attractions at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Spanish winger has already earned a prominent place in world soccer and will now aim to achieve the ultimate prize with Spain. A Barcelona legend, Thierry Henry, shared his thoughts on him.

“I’m looking forward to watch the World Cup,” Henry said in a recent interview with Marca. “I hope that Lamine is gonna be there, fresh, and perform, because what you want is to see the best players on that stage, able to perform. Even if I’m not Spanish, you want to see Lamine Yamal there.”

Henry then highlighted a specific trait that stands out to him about Yamal. “We all know he’s an outstanding player. You know what I like about Lamine? I saw something at the Euro that I rarely saw at that age,” the former forward began.

“You guys will not remember, it was against France. He received the ball on the right. He could have gone on the counter, but he told the whole team ‘calm down,’” Henry recalled. “Who does that at 16 years old? You don’t have that that early. I was like ‘Already? You understand? He plays like he’s in his neighborhood. World Cup or not, intensity is the same. He tries to play, he tries to dribble, he takes risks. That’s the type of player you want to see.”

Having been a young prodigy himself—a World Cup winner in 1998 at just 19 years old—Thierry Henry was impressed not only by Yamal’s talent on the ball, but also by his understanding of the game and his ability to read what each moment requires.

Lamine Yamal continues his recovery

It is no coincidence that one of the first things Thierry Henry mentioned about Lamine Yamal was his hope that he arrives “fresh” at the World Cup. That is because, at the moment, Spain’s main concern regarding the young winger is that he fully recovers from the muscle injury he suffered with Barcelona just two weeks ago.

In that regard, the latest updates have been positive. With his club season officially over, Yamal is working hard to be in optimal condition for the start of the World Cup. In fact, this Tuesday he shared a story on his official Instagram account showing him training on a stationary bike, a sign that his recovery is progressing well.

Henry on the difference between World Cup and Champions League

Having won both the World Cup with France and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, Thierry Henry is well qualified to compare the two biggest competitions in soccer.

“As I always say, the World Cup is every four years, that’s what makes it extra special. The Champions League is every year, you always have the chance to win it every year,” the former forward explained in the same interview with Marca. “The World Cup is a different game, so I’m really excited.”

Match Overview

Tigres UANL head into the decisive second leg on home soil holding a slim 1-0 advantage, but the job is far from finished in this evenly matched semifinal clash. Nashville SC remain within striking distance, fully aware that a single goal on the road could completely shift the momentum and put serious pressure on the hosts.

On the other side, Tigres must balance their lead with urgency to avoid letting the series slip away. With everything still up for grabs and the tension building, this matchup has all the ingredients of a dramatic finish—don’t miss it.

Neutral fans enjoyed the Champions League semifinals. A 5-4 goal fest in the first leg put Paris Saint-Germain ahead of Bayern Munich. However, Vincent Kompany ruled out any tactical changes to his team.

Kompany said when asked about tweaking the tactical side of his team: “Answering that question affirmatively would be idiotic. A match like this one is about the players, not the managers. My job is to make them stronger.”

The only thing to focus on should be the details, as the manager said: “It’s about polishing the small details. Players must get better at those things that they have done well during the season.”

Kompany on the playstyle debate

The spectacle shown by these teams a week ago in Paris must remain in the history books, but it is understandable that some people may think a better defensive approach would be more viable.

That is not what the manager thinks based on his short experience, especially when looking at what he has done with the German club, so he was quick to push back against those who ask for a more conservative approach.

Kompany said: “Some people ask for more pragmatism, but the most pragmatic thing to do is play to win. To do that, you must score one more goal than your rival. You must think about what these teams have done to get here.”

Kompany gets some players back

For this match, it is important to have as many players ready as possible. While Serge Gnabry has been ruled out with an injury, three players are back with the team. Kompany said Lennart Karl, Raphael Guerreiro and Tom Bischof may be on the bench after they were able to train at full speed again.

Inter Miami’s dramatic 4-3 loss to Orlando City last Saturday continues to have repercussions for Lionel Messi’s team. Now, Ian Fray has been fined by Major League Soccer for comments he made after the match.

“Ian Fray has been fined for ‘violating the league’s public criticism policy,’” reporter Jose Armando reported Tuesday in a post on his official X account. “The sanction is financial only.”

The punishment stems from remarks the Jamaican right-back made after the match, taking aim at referee Guido Gonzalez. “I think this referee has something against maybe some of the players on our team. That’s just as simple as that,” Fray said during the postgame press conference at Nu Stadium on Saturday.

However, the Inter Miami defender was quick to clarify that Gonzalez’s performance was not the reason for the result. “We shouldn’t have lost regardless of the referee,” Ian said. “That’s not an excuse, I’m not trying to make that an excuse at all.”

Inter Miami have received several MLS sanctions recently

Fray’s case adds to a growing list of Inter Miami players who have been disciplined by MLS in recent weeks. Some of those sanctions stemmed from incidents during matches, while others—like this one—came from postgame actions.

The most recent example involved Luis Suarez, who was also fined by the league for “violating the league’s policy regarding simulation/embellishment” after attempting to draw a penalty during a match against New England Revolution.

Earlier this season, Facundo Mura received a fine for a similar incident against Real Salt Lake, while the most severe punishment was handed to Yannick Bright, who received an additional match suspension for racist remarks.

Ian Fray also reveals Messi’s reaction

During the same press conference in which Ian Fray made the remarks that led to his Major League Soccer sanction, the defender also addressed Lionel Messi’s reaction following the loss to Orlando City on Saturday.

“The captain spoke and gave us a lot of motivational words ahead of the upcoming match,” Fray said about Messi. “He said that this is unacceptable, and it’s something we all completely agree with — this is unacceptable, and it certainly won’t happen again.”

Lamine Yamal has become one of Barcelona’s best players, imposing as the team’s top scorer with 24 goals. However, he suffered a muscle tear that brought his season to an end and raised concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup. While Spain are planning to call him up, the Blaugrana are pushing for a more cautious approach, reportedly reaching an agreement with the national team over the management of the 18-year-old star’s playing time.

According to Sergi Castillo, via Diario Sport, Barcelona and the RFEF have held several meetings to address Lamine Yamal’s recovery. In an effort to prioritize the 18-year-old star’s health, head coach Luis de la Fuente has promised the Blaugrana that he will manage his minutes and use him as an impact substitute during the group stage, allowing him to build rhythm. With this approach, he could be in full form for the knockout stages.

With Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia as their first opponents at the 2026 World Cup, Spain may not face major difficulties even with Lamine coming from bench. Instead, head coach Luis de la Fuente could opt for Yeremy Pino in the starting lineup, as he has been performing well in the Premier League. However, they will face Uruguay in the third match, which presents a tougher challenge, making the potential involvement of the 18-year-old star potentially decisive.

Even though Lamine Yamal’s injury initially appeared to be quite serious, he has already made notable progress in his recovery. According to Santi Ovalle, a specialist in Barcelona-related news, the 18-year-old star is already training in the gym and back on the pitch, marking significant improvement. Despite this, head coach Hansi Flick will not include him in the upcoming matches, as the club aims for him to fully recover.

Lamine Yamal’s heavy workload raises injury fears at Barcelona

Lamine Yamal has been one of Barcelona’s most heavily used players, logging 3,702 minutes. Alongside this, he has endured the most injury-hit season of his career, with four setbacks. Beyond that, the main concern is that the 18-year-old star could arrive at the 2026 World Cup without adequate rest and with a physical condition that raises serious doubts. As a result, he risks suffering further injuries during the 2026–27 season.

Even before his muscle tear, legend Ruud Gullit had already warned that the heavy workload could affect Lamine Yamal, as it did with Pedri and Gavi. After the 2026 World Cup, the Blaugrana may need to grant him more rest than usual or delay his involvement in preseason to help him fully recover physically. In addition, head coach Hansi Flick could look to manage his playing time more carefully throughout the 2026–27 campaign.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s most recent investment, Almeria, continues to push toward La Liga promotion after extending its dominant home form with a record-breaking consecutive victory at home, tightening its grip on a top-two finish in Spain’s Segunda Division. The club is now within touching distance of the elite tier, with pressure mounting as the season approaches its decisive final stretch and four matches remaining to decide its fate.

Almeria’s 4-2 win over Mirandes was more than just another three points; it marked an eighth straight home victory, setting a new club record in the process. That run has included wins over teams such as Leganes, Malaga, and FC Andorra, underlining the consistency that has defined their season.

“The Andalusian outfit have set a new club record, underlining the importance of maintaining their dominance on home soil,” reported Diario de Almeria. The streak began in early February and has turned their stadium into a key foundation for their promotion ambitions.

Mirandes entered the match hoping to disrupt that momentum, but Almeria maintained control and continued their push toward the top of the table. The result ensured they remain firmly in the automatic promotion places.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s involvement adds global attention

The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo as an investor has brought additional attention to Almeria’s rise, with his ownership stake of 25% in the club confirmed earlier this year. While he is not involved on the pitch, his association has increased global interest in the club’s progress.

His name continues to be linked with the project as Almeria aims to return to La Liga, where financial and sporting rewards are significantly higher. The club’s upward trajectory has only intensified scrutiny as the season reaches its climax.

Promotion race reaches boiling point

With four games left, Almeria sits second in the Segunda Division with 70 points, just behind leaders Racing Santander on 72. The situation is tight, with Deportivo La Coruna and Las Palmas also closing in behind Los Rojiblancos in a fiercely competitive race. The promotion system is unforgiving: the top two teams go directly up, while those finishing third to sixth must navigate the pressure-filled playoffs.

Almeria currently holds one of those automatic spots, but the margin is razor-thin. The equation is simple but brutal: consistency will decide everything in the final weeks, and even a single poor result could shift the entire structure of the table.

What Almeria needs to secure promotion

While nothing is mathematically decided, the path forward is becoming clearer. A perfect finish would take Almeria to 82 points, which would almost certainly guarantee promotion regardless of rival results. However, realistically, analysts suggest it likely needs between eight and 10 points from its final four matches to stay safe.

That would place the Cowboys in the 78-80 point range, historically strong enough for a top-two finish in this division. Anything below that threshold could open the door for Deportivo La Coruna or Las Palmas to overtake it in the final weeks.

The final stretch is unforgiving, with Almeria facing Burgos on May 9, La Palmas on May 16, Gijon on May 24, and Real Valladolid on May 31. These fixtures will test not only quality but mental strength. The upcoming clash with Las Palmas stands out as particularly decisive, given the direct impact it could have on the standings.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have struggled in terms of goal scoring, as Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have both experienced a significant dip in form. In response, Julián Álvarez emerged as the ideal solution. However, Atlético Madrid are not very open to letting him leave, forcing to look for alternatives. As a result, the Blaugranas have reportedly turned their attention to Gonçalo Ramos as a reliable reinforcement in the forward line.

According to TEAMtalk, the Blaugrana have decided to add Gonçalo Ramos as a potential transfer target, following Chelsea’s rejection of João Pedro. Having fallen out of the starting lineup under head coach Luis Enrique, PSG are open to letting the Portuguese forward leave, as Ousmane Dembélé has taken over the starting role in attack. Because of this, the Spanish side may not face many obstacles in securing his arrival.

While Paris Saint-Germain paid €65M + €15M in variables to SL Benfica for Gonçalo Ramos, he has only played 1,532 minutes, in which he has scored 12 goals, falling short of expectations this season. In addition, Ousmane Dembélé’s emergence has pushed him into a secondary role, making his departure a real possibility. The Portuguese striker has proven to be a very complete player, fitting well into Hansi Flick’s possession-based style of play.

Far from being a guaranteed signing, the Blaugrana could be taking a rather uncertain decision. Although he shone at SL Benfica, Gonçalo has not managed to prove as a difference-maker at PSG, making several mistakes in important matches that ultimately relegated him to a bench role. However, Ramos could represent a strong opportunity if he arrives for an affordable transfer fee, as he has already shown his potential and could flourish under head coach Hansi Flick.

Gonçalo Ramos raises doubts, while Julián Álvarez guarantees goals

Following numerous inconsistencies in front of goal, Barcelona appear determined to reinforce their attacking line, even being open to letting Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski leave, signalling a drastic change. With this in mind, a potential move for Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid for around €100M had strong consensus, as he is in top form and highly consistent. However, the option of Gonçalo Ramos raises several doubts.

Julián Álvarez has proven to be one of the best forwards in the world, shining with Argentina at the 2022 World Cup and becoming an undisputed starter for Atlético Madrid. Beyond being a goalscorer, he also contributes to collective play, making him compatible with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. It differs from Gonçalo Ramos, as he has struggled to fit in alongside Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé, often remaining a substitute and missing several clear chances.

Alongside Ramos’s inconsistency, PSG may not make things easy for Barcelona to sign the Portuguese striker, and his high cost relative to his performances would also be a deterrent. However, if Barcelona manage to secure his arrival on loan, he could become one of the best options available, similar to what they did with Marcus Rashford, unlocking his potential under Hansi Flick.

Neymar is currently at the center of several talking points in the soccer world. His potential return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as well as his conflicts at Santos with fans and teammates, are among them. Now, speculation about a possible move to Argentina to play for Boca Juniors has emerged—something Mauricio Serna addressed.

“Within the Boca world, anything is possible. In fact, when I was working at the club, some agents used to call me to offer Neymar,” Serna said in a recent interview with Radio Splendid. “We never moved forward. I don’t know if it was real or not, but he’s been offered.”

Serna was a Boca Juniors star as a player in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Years later, when club legend Juan Roman Riquelme became president, he brought him in to join the sporting council, a role the former Colombian player held from 2022 to 2025.

It was during those years that Neymar was first offered to Boca, a period that coincided with the Brazilian forward’s departure from Paris Saint-Germain, his struggles with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, and ultimately his return to Santos at the beginning of last year.

Serna imagines Neymar at Boca Juniors

In the same interview, Mauricio Serna allowed himself to imagine a scenario in which Neymar actually becomes a Boca player. “Anything can happen. Boca are capable of anything. Who wouldn’t want to see Neymar wearing the shirt of the club they love? It would be beautiful—I’d have to move back to Buenos Aires so I wouldn’t miss a single match,” the Colombian said.

Serna then analyzed Neymar’s current situation, acknowledging that while he is no longer the same player he was at Barcelona and PSG, he remains an important figure: “Even if it’s been difficult for him to regain rhythm and form, he’s one of those players who still brings a smile to soccer fans.”

Neymar’s current struggles

Rumors about a possible move to Argentina have several roots. The first spark came from Neymar’s visit to Buenos Aires last week, when he played with Santos against San Lorenzo in the Copa Sudamericana. He received a warm welcome from opposing fans—something that contrasts with his recent experiences in Brazil—and also visited Boca’s training facility, where he met with former PSG teammate Ander Herrera.

Those speculations have grown amid ongoing tensions at Santos that cast doubt over his future at the club. Disagreements with fans unhappy with the team’s performances have been compounded by a reported dispute with teammate Robinho Jr. following an alleged incident in training. All of this comes as Neymar looks to regain top form in hopes of convincing Carlo Ancelotti to include him in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

There are nights when even the most dominant careers take an unexpected turn, and this latest chapter involving Cristiano Ronaldo has added a surprising twist. The Portuguese icon continues to lead Al-Nassr through a tense title race, yet beneath the surface, a rare and uncomfortable milestone has quietly emerged.

For much of the campaign, Al-Nassr appeared to have everything under control. A long winning run of 20 matches and a commanding lead had positioned it as the clear favorite for the Saudi Pro League title, with consistency becoming its defining trait. That sense of stability was shaken by a 3-1 defeat to Al-Qadsiah, a result that shifted the momentum of the race. 

The loss not only ended an impressive streak but also allowed rivals to close the gap, turning what once felt secure into a genuine battle. Ronaldo came close to changing the narrative during the match, striking the crossbar with a curling effort. Instead, the night belonged to the hosts, who capitalized on defensive lapses to secure a decisive victory.

The consequences of that result have reshaped the title picture. Al-Nassr’s lead has narrowed, with Al-Hilal now firmly back in contention, holding both momentum and a crucial game in hand. A potential title-deciding clash between the two sides looms large, with May 12 circled as a defining moment.

If current results hold, the gap could shrink to just a couple of points, turning that encounter into a high-stakes showdown. Beyond the league, Al-Nassr also has another opportunity for silverware on the horizon. An upcoming AFC Champions League 2 final offers a second route to success, but balancing both competitions only adds to the intensity of the run-in.

Ronaldo’s unexpected statistical setback

The defeat carried an additional layer of significance for Cristiano Ronaldo. It has confirmed an unusual statistic in Ronaldo’s career, one that stands out given his extraordinary record across decades.

The 41-year-old is now winless in four matches against Al-Qadsiah, making it the longest winless streak he has ever had against a single club in his senior career. In a journey filled with victories against the world’s biggest teams, this particular matchup has become a rare exception.

What makes the statistic notable is not just the number itself, but the consistency of the results. Across multiple meetings, Al-Nassr have been unable to secure a win, with Al-Qadsiah repeatedly finding ways to frustrate one of the world’s most decorated players.

The numbers underline just how unusual this situation is. Across hundreds of opponents, very few have managed to consistently deny the Portuguese superstar’s success, making this streak a genuine anomaly in his career.

Ronaldo’s other winless streaks

Ronaldo’s other notable winless streaks against individual clubs are shorter than the current 4 consecutive losses to Al Qadsiah. Most other difficult opponents involve 1-2 matches, often from his early Sporting Lisbon days or cup ties:

• Young Boys (Switzerland): 0 wins in 2 matches (both 2-1 losses with Juventus in the 2018-19 Champions League). Ronaldo contributed goals/assists but still lost both.
• Leiria (Portugal): 0 wins in 2 matches (1 draw, 1 loss) during his Sporting Lisbon days in 2002-03.
• Partizan (Serbia): 0 wins in 2 matches (1 draw, 1 loss) in 2002-03 UEFA Cup with Sporting.
• Gil Vicente (Portugal): 0 wins in 2 matches (both losses, combined 4-0) with Sporting in 2002–03.

Lionel Messi’s free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain was expected to bring plenty of trophies as he joined Neymar and Kylian Mbappé. However, the team did not do much in Europe under Mauricio Pochettino, who explained why they did not work well together during the 2021-22 season in a conversation with The Overlap.

Pochettino said: “Messi wanted to build from the back, slowly, with combinations and passes. Because he has the quality to dribble past one, two, three opponents. But if we played for Mbappé, we could not play for him.”

The manager added more about the French forward’s style of play: “If we were deep and won the ball back, Mbappé looked for space. It was about giving him the ball so he could run. When we played for Messi, Mbappé used to tell me, ‘My ability is to run, but I cannot.’ Neymar wanted to play with the ball.”

The star trio was not a good experience

Domestic trophies are expected at Paris Saint-Germain. They are more of an obligation than a goal, which was reflected in the club’s decision to fire Pochettino after just 18 months in charge. During his time with Messi, Neymar and Mbappé, they only won Ligue 1.

The main reason for replacing the manager was their performance in the Champions League, the obsession the club had until it finally conquered the competition under Luis Enrique, after losing to Real Madrid in the round of 16 in a tie they controlled for much of the time.

Pochettino had guided the team to the Champions League semifinals in his first year after arriving in January, eliminating Barcelona and Bayern Munich before losing to Manchester City. His trophies with the club were one Ligue 1 title, one Coupe de France and one Trophée des Champions.

Messi, Neymar and Mbappé’s numbers under Pochettino

The trio did not have the best year collectively when they came up against stronger rivals. Their individual numbers also were not as good compared to other seasons. Messi played 34 matches, scoring just 11 goals. Neymar played only 38 matches and scored 13 goals. Mbappé was the best of the three as the younger player, with 46 matches and 39 goals.

Match Overview

Pressure is already mounting for Santos as their Copa Sudamericana run has stumbled out of the gate, collecting just two points from their opening three matches despite the expectations. That slow start leaves Santos in urgent need of a result to keep their knockout-stage hopes within reach, turning this matchup into a must-win scenario.

Meanwhile, Recoleta FC enter with three points and a clear opportunity to strengthen their standing in the group, knowing a win would put them in a strong position moving forward. With both teams chasing a crucial result, this clash has all the ingredients of a high-stakes battle—make sure you don’t miss it.

Match Overview

Matchday 4 brings major stakes in Group D, where the standings have tightened into one of the most competitive battles in the tournament. Barcelona SC enter this clash in a desperate position, still searching for their first win after three matches and knowing that anything less than a victory could effectively end their chances of moving on.

On the other side, Boca Juniors arrive with something to prove after their early surge—two straight wins to open the group—was halted by a loss to Cruzeiro, a result that reshaped the group dynamic. With both teams feeling the pressure for very different reasons, this matchup has all the ingredients of a high-stakes showdown.

Real Madrid are heading toward two consecutive trophyless seasons, raising serious doubts on their roster. Following this, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa is expected to be either dismissed or reassigned at the end of the season, with the club targeting a candidate with extensive experience. However, Los Blancos have reportedly set a clear condition for the next appointment: Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior are untouchable.

According to José Félix Díaz via Diario AS, Los Blancos maintain full confidence in Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior, seeing them as key figures for the next season. With this in mind, they rule out the departure of any of the three stars. In fact, Real Madrid aim for the next head coach to be capable of extracting the best version of all three within the same lineup, making this a central factor in defining the appointment.

Although Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior being world-class players, they have not managed to shine simultaneously at Real Madrid. While the Englishman and the Brazilian stood out under Carlo Ancelotti, the Frenchman’s arrival changed everything, as his presence directly overlaps with the areas where his teammates shined. Therefore, the next head coach may be forced to adjust the roles of the three, aiming to fit them into the same lineup.

Far from being a simple task, Ancelotti, Xabi, and Arbeloa have all struggled to make them fit together, as Mbappé’s total freedom of movement prevents Jude and Vinícius from fully occupying their natural roles. Because of this, the Frenchman may need to adapt into a centre-forward role in the style of Cristiano Ronaldo, freeing up space for his teammates and could even enhance his own scoring output.

Real Madrid defense issue could unlock Mbappé, Bellingham and Vinícius

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled with consistency defensively, suffering multiple injuries and costly defeats. As a result, the efforts of Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior are often overshadowed, as they concede many goals and are forced to contribute to defensive pressing. Because of this, Los Blancos could strengthen their defensive structure to better maximize their three stars.

Without having to make excessive defensive efforts, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior could focus entirely on the attacking phase, improving their counterattacks and avoiding unnecessary physical fatigue. In addition, their offensive impact could become more evident without constant defensive issues. For this reason, Los Blancos could prioritize strengthening their defense and appointing a world-class coach.

There are moments in a season when everything seems to hinge on one absence, and this is where both Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric find themselves as Milan navigates a tense run-in. The Italian club is chasing stability, yet uncertainty surrounds one of its most influential figures, with developments behind the scenes hinting at a potential late twist before this summer’s World Cup.

Milan’s recent stumble against Sassuolo exposed just how important Modric has become to the system. The 2-0 defeat not only dented its UEFA Champions League hopes but also highlighted a lack of control in midfield, an area usually dictated by the Croatian’s composure and intelligence.

Without him, the Rossoneri struggled to impose themselves, conceding early and losing further ground after a red card disrupted their rhythm. The absence of their experienced playmaker left the side looking disconnected, with few answers to Sassuolo’s tempo and movement.

That defeat has tightened the race for a top-four finish, with rivals circling and pressure building ahead of the final stretch. For a team that once looked comfortable, the margin for error has suddenly disappeared.

The injury that changed the picture

Modric’s setback came at the worst possible time, following a facial injury that required surgery after an aerial collision. Initially, the expectation was clear: his season with Milan was over, allowing him to focus entirely on recovery ahead of international duty.

However, the situation has evolved in recent days, with fresh reports suggesting that the story may not be finished just yet. As confirmed by Antonio Vitiello of MilanNews.it, the midfielder has already returned to the training environment, signaling a determination to remain involved during a decisive period.

His presence at the training ground has lifted spirits, even if only symbolically for now. Milan’s staff are carefully monitoring his progress, aware that any decision carries both short-term and long-term implications.

Surprise twist as Modric’s possible comeback window revealed

The narrative takes a dramatic turn in the middle of this story, as reports from Italy point to a potential comeback that few expected. According to multiple outlets, including Sky Italia, La Gazzetta dello Sport, and MilanNews.it, Modric is now targeting a return for the final league match against Cagliari on May 24, possibly wearing a protective mask to manage the injury.

This development changes the entire outlook for the Rossoneri’s closing fixtures. What once seemed like a campaign without their midfield leader could now include one last appearance, offering both tactical value and emotional lift.

There is still caution surrounding the idea, as medical clearance and the player’s own confidence will ultimately decide the outcome. Yet the mere possibility has already shifted the mood within the club.

What it means for Pulisic and Milan

For Pulisic, the situation carries added significance as he has struggled to fit into Milan’s attacking structure ever since the start of 2026. In the first part of the season, American was one of the team’s key performers, and the potential return of Modric could restore balance behind him, easing creative pressure.

At the same time, Milan’s broader ambitions are tied to this delicate moment. Champions League qualification remains essential, not only for prestige but also for influencing Modric’s future at the club, with contract discussions still unresolved.

The Croatian, now approaching the twilight of his career, is weighing his next step carefully. A return before the season ends would send a strong message about his fitness and intent ahead of what is expected to be his final World Cup.

Last Saturday, Inter Miami suffered a tough 4-3 loss to Orlando City after starting the match in dominant fashion and building a three-goal lead. Despite the setback, Major League Soccer honored Lionel Messi’s performance.

“Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi has been named to the Major League Soccer Team of the Matchday,” the club announced in a statement published on its official website. “The Argentine earns his fifth Team of the Matchday selection of the campaign after a standout performance in which he contributed to all three Inter Miami goals, recording one goal and two assists.”

The Herons’ first-half advantage was largely driven by the Argentine forward’s performance. On Ian Fray’s opening goal, Messi played the pass to Telasco Segovia, who then delivered the cross. He later assisted the Venezuelan midfielder for the second goal, and in the 33rd minute, he scored the third with a precise finish.

However, Messi’s performance was overshadowed in the second half by another Argentine. Martin Ojeda led Orlando City’s comeback with a hat trick to level the score and then assisted Tyrese Spicer for the game-winning goal in stoppage time.

Messi keeps piling up accolades

The honor awarded by MLS to Lionel Messi as part of the Team of the Matchday for Week 11 adds to a growing list of similar recognitions the Argentine forward has earned for his performances with Inter Miami.

In fact, during the 2026 season, Messi has been named to the Team of the Matchday in five of the first eleven weeks. His previous selections came in Matchday 2 (alongside Javier Mascherano, Telasco Segovia, and Mateo Silvetti), Matchday 5 (alongside Gonzalo Lujan), Matchday 6, and Matchday 8.

These honors reflect the Argentine star’s production so far this season. Messi has played in 10 of Inter Miami’s 11 MLS matches in 2026—resting only for the March matchup against Charlotte FC—and has recorded eight goals and one assist.

Inter Miami’s upcoming challenges

Following the tough loss to Orlando City, Inter Miami now have a week to recover both mentally and physically. On Saturday, they will travel to Canada to face Toronto FC in the first of three matches in a one-week span. They will then visit FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, May 13, before returning home the following Sunday to host Portland Timbers.

Martin Odegaard is not in Arsenal’s starting lineup against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg at the Emirates Stadium, a decision that has raised eyebrows given the magnitude of the occasion. The tie remains finely poised after a 1-1 draw in Spain last week, with both clubs chasing a place in the final.

The Gunners come into the night knowing that only a win will guarantee progression after a tense first leg filled with controversy and penalties. Atletico Madrid, led by Diego Simeone, arrives with the belief it can upset the hosts and reach its first Champions League final in the last 10 years.

The opening match in Madrid ended 1-1, with both sides scoring from the penalty spot in a game defined by fine margins. Viktor Gyokeres gave Arsenal the lead, while Julian Alvarez equalised for Atletico after a VAR-reviewed handball incident involving Ben White.

Arsenal also had a second penalty decision overturned, leaving Mikel Arteta visibly frustrated. The Gunners now return to London unbeaten in the competition this season, but Simeone’s side remain dangerous in knockout action, particularly when games are tight and physical.

Why Martin Odegaard is not starting

Despite being named in the matchday squad, Martin Odegaard is not fit enough to start after recent injury concerns. The Arsenal captain had been dealing with knee discomfort, which also caused him to miss the weekend’s 3-0 win over Fulham.

While he returned to training and made himself available, the decision was made to start him on the bench rather than risk aggravating the issue. Kai Havertz is in a similar situation after a muscle knock, though both players are available for selection if needed during the match.

Arsenal stick with winning momentum as stakes higher than ever

Arteta has opted to keep faith with the same starting XI that impressed against Fulham, prioritizing rhythm and chemistry. Bukayo Saka, who was rested at half-time in that match, retains his place, while Viktor Gyokeres continues up front after scoring twice at the weekend. Myles Lewis-Skelly remains in midfield after an impressive showing, while Riccardo Calafiori and Ben White also keep their places in defence.

The lineup reflects a preference for stability in a match where structure and control could be decisive. With no away goals rule in effect, the winner at the Emirates Stadium will advance directly to the final if the match is decided in normal or extra time, or via penalties if required.

Match Overview

Group leadership is on the line as Palmeiras and Sporting Cristal collide in a high-stakes Matchday 4 showdown in the Copa Libertadores group stage, with the Brazilian powerhouse entering just one point off the top and a victory potentially flipping the standings.

Sporting Cristal, currently sitting first with six points from three matches, now faces its biggest test yet against a title favorite widely expected to contend deep into the tournament, setting the stage for a pivotal clash that could reshape the group—don’t miss a minute of this must-see battle.

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid clashed at the Emirates stadium on Tuesday, May 5, for the second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals. Bukayo Saka‘s decisive strike proved to be the only goal of the night, sending the Gunners through to the final in Budapest on a 2-1 aggregate scoreline.

The match began with Atletico sitting in a deep 5-4-1 defensive structure, and Arsenal struggled to find any penetration through the lines, failing to register a single shot on target in the opening 43 minutes. The breakthrough finally came in the 44th minute when Leandro Trossard tested Jan Oblak after bringing down a Viktor Gyokeres cross, and Saka was quickest to react to the rebound, slotting home to give Arsenal the lead.

In the second half, Atletico were forced to open up in search of the goal that would level the tie on aggregate and force extra time. Antoine Griezmann threatened with a right-footed effort, and Alexander Sorloth failed to make clean contact with another chance inside the box, but the Colchoneros could not find the breakthrough they needed and the scoreline stood.

With the result confirmed, Arsenal extended their unbeaten run in the 2025-26 Champions League to 14 games, a sequence made up of 11 wins and three draws. The Gunners now turn their attention to the final in Budapest, scheduled for Saturday, May 31, where they will await the winner of the other semifinal between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.

Arsenal host Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, May 5, for the decisive second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals. While both powerhouse clubs are navigating nagging fitness concerns, they are each expected to push their stars to the limit to secure a ticket to the final in Budapest.

The Gunners struck first in the opening leg after David Hancko was whistled for a foul on Viktor Gyokeres inside the area, with the striker clinicaly converting in the 44th minute. However, Atletico showed their trademark resilience, leveling the score after a Benjamin White handball gifted Julian Alvarez a penalty of his own to knot the game.

Following the 1-1 draw at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the tie will be decided in North London. This marks the third meeting between Arsenal and Atletico this season; their first clash came during the UCL league phase, where the Gunners cruised to a dominant 4-0 victory at the Emirates, a result Mikel Arteta’s side will be desperate to replicate.

Injury updates and key returns

A major concern for Atletico Madrid following the first leg was the health of Julian Alvarez, though manager Diego Simeone was quick to downplay the severity of the Argentine’s second-half exit. Additionally, Alexander Sorloth, who missed the first leg due to discomfort, was rested over the weekend and is expected to be at peak fitness for Tuesday’s clash.

Los Colchoneros traveled from Spain to England with a 21-man squad, missing only Nicolas Gonzalez and midfielder Pablo Barrios. On a positive note, veteran defender Jose Maria Gimenez has recovered from an injury sustained in early April and is expected to provide a defensive boost from the substitutes’ bench.

On the Gunners’ side, Mikel Arteta confirmed during Monday’s press conference that both Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard are fit and available. The most notable absences remain Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber; Merino is sidelined for the remainder of the season, while Timber continues to struggle with ongoing fitness issues.

Confirmed lineups for Arsenal and Atletico Madrid

Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): David Raya; Benjamin White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori; Eberechi Eze, Miles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Viktor Gyokeres, Leandro Trossard.
Head coach: Mikel Arteta.

Atletico Madrid’s confirmed lineup (4-4-2): Jan Oblak; Marc Pubill, Robin Le Normand, David Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Marcos Llorente, Koke, Ademola Lookman; Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez.
Head coach: Diego Simeone.

Xavi Hernández became one of the key architects of Barcelona’s project success, building a promising roster. Although he was dismissed, he was the one who helped develop young players such as Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal. Despite being without a team for two years, Chelsea have reportedly decided to pursue the Spanish head coach as the leader of their sporting project, aiming to build an elite-level team.

According to The Independent, the Blues have decided to prioritize the appointment of Xavi Hernández as their new head coach for the 2026–27 season. Although he has been without a team since leaving Barcelona in 2024, the Spaniard coach is highly regarded for his attacking philosophy and solid results. In addition, the English side believes his time at the LaLiga club provided him with valuable experience to lead this project.

Far from being a straightforward decision for Xavi Hernández, he could have serious doubts about accepting Chelsea’s proposal. Given the club’s instability with managers, the Spaniard might not have the opportunity to build a long-term project, as Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior were not afforded that chance either. If he fails to deliver strong results, he could once again exit through the back door, potentially affecting his career, as happened with Graham Potter.

In case Xavi Hernández manages to build a solid project at the Blues, he could once again reestablish as one of the best managers in the world. However, he would likely need to win the Premier League or the UEFA Champions League. In addition, he could request greater control over transfers, aiming to reshape several areas of the squad with players suited to his dominant, attacking style of play.

Report: Chelsea also chase Cesc Fabregas as leading coaching candidate

In an effort to restore the competitive direction of their project, Chelsea appear determined to back a coach who excels at developing young talent. While Xavi Hernández seems to be the front office’s top priority, they are also keeping alternatives in mind in case an agreement cannot be reached. As a result, they have set their sights on Cesc Fàbregas, who is impressing at Como in Serie A.

According to CaughtOffside, the Blues believe Cesc Fàbregas would be an ideal solution for the head coach role. After establishing as a club legend, the Spaniard could be tempted to return to the Premier League. However, he has already made it clear that leaving Como 1907 will not be easy, as he is a shareholder in the club and feels strongly connected to the project, although he has always expressed his love for the English league.

Both Xavi Hernández and Cesc Fàbregas stand out in one key area: Developing young players. Because of this, Chelsea are making it clear that their focus is on maximizing the potential of the young players in their squad, something Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior did not manage to achieve. As a result, they are targeting coaches who have already made an impact on youngsters, with Nico Paz and Lamine Yamal standing out as clear examples of this philosophy.

The careers of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have long been defined by rivalry, but a new revelation suggests their paths could have briefly converged. Long before their iconic battles between Real Madrid and Barcelona, there was a moment when history could have taken a dramatically different turn. The possibility of both stars wearing the same shirt once came dangerously close to reality, only for one decisive factor to change everything.

The summer of 2009 is remembered as a turning point, when Cristiano Ronaldo completed a blockbuster move to Real Madrid, beginning a legendary chapter. However, fresh insight reveals that the deal was far from straightforward and nearly collapsed at a critical stage.

According to former Los Blancos president Ramon Calderon, there was a genuine possibility that Ronaldo could have joined Barcelona instead, creating a partnership with Messi that would have redefined the sport.

Calderon explained that the Blaugrana made a serious push to secure Ronaldo’s signature during that period. “Barcelona offered Cristiano Ronaldo a larger amount. There was a real possibility of him moving to Barcelona and joining Messi,” he said on the YouTube podcast Ingenios, as reported by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.

The financial aspect of the offer made the situation even more compelling. Barcelona was reportedly willing to outbid Real Madrid, presenting Ronaldo with a lucrative alternative that could have altered his career trajectory. At the same time, Alex Ferguson played a key role behind the scenes. As Manchester United’s manager, he was reluctant to see Ronaldo move to Madrid due to tensions between the clubs.

The decisive moment behind the collapse

The crucial turning point came during discussions about Ronaldo’s next step, when Ferguson attempted to redirect the transfer. “Sir Alex Ferguson… told him at the time: ‘Okay, you will leave, but to Barcelona.’”

It was at this moment that Ronaldo made his stance clear, effectively shaping soccer history. “No, I have reached an agreement with Real Madrid, with Ramon Calderon, and I will go to Real Madrid.”

This response closed the door on a potential Barcelona move and ensured that Ronaldo’s long-anticipated transfer to Real Madrid would go ahead, preserving the iconic rivalry between him and Messi rather than uniting them.

Resistance inside Real Madrid and complicated relationship behind the success

Interestingly, even after Ronaldo chose Madrid, the deal still faced internal resistance. Calderon revealed that Florentino Perez, upon returning as president, was initially hesitant to finalize the agreement.

“When Florentino arrived and saw the contract, he did not want to complete the deal. He did not even want to present it… Those around him convinced him that the matter was something crazy.” This hesitation highlights how the transfer was not universally supported within the club at the time, despite its eventual success.

Calderon also shed light on the relationship between Perez and Ronaldo, suggesting it was strained from the beginning. “The relationship between Perez and Ronaldo was not good at all from the beginning.”

He went further, recalling the circumstances of Ronaldo’s departure in 2018. “He did not accept the exit either; Perez agreed on the condition that the player bring a cheque worth €100 million [$117m]… and when the player arrived with the cheque, there was no room to back out.”

The spotlight once again falls on Cristiano Ronaldo as developments off the pitch hand Al-Nassr a potential advantage ahead of a crucial derby. As Al-Nassr prepares for another defining moment, developments involving Abderrazak Hamdallah and Yannick Carrasco have cast a shadow over Al-Shabab.

The buildup to the Riyadh derby has taken an unexpected turn, with internal conflict at Al-Shabab emerging at the worst possible time. The club now faces questions about squad harmony and readiness, while its rival prepares to capitalize on any instability. For Al-Nassr, the situation presents a timely boost as the club continues its push at the top of the table.

The issue at Al-Shabab did not arise overnight, but it escalated dramatically following a disappointing 5-1 defeat in the league. What began as a disagreement quickly evolved into a wider problem that forced the club’s hierarchy to step in.

At the heart of the controversy was a heated moment between Hamdallah and Carrasco during a match. A disagreement over decision-making on the pitch led to visible frustration, which later continued beyond the final whistle.

The situation reportedly extended into the dressing room, requiring intervention from staff members to prevent further escalation. What might have been a minor dispute instead turned into a full-blown internal issue, raising concerns about discipline and unity within the squad.

Club responds with firm sanctions

Al-Shabab has, thus, reacted decisively, making it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated. According to the Arriyadiyah newspaper, the club imposed a series of disciplinary measures on the Moroccan striker, including exclusion from the upcoming clash against Al-Nassr and suspension from team training for seven days.

Beyond the immediate suspension, questions are now being raised about Hamdallah’s long-term position at the club. Arriyadiyah also goes on to suggest that his future could be in doubt, with the possibility of an early departure not ruled out.

This was not an isolated incident, either. SBA Sport has reported ongoing tension between Hamdallah and Carrasco throughout the season, indicating that the clash was the culmination of unresolved issues rather than a one-off disagreement.

While efforts are believed to be underway to resolve the situation internally, the damage may already have been done. The incident has exposed deeper issues within the squad, leaving the club with a difficult balancing act between discipline and stability.

Golden opportunity for Al-Nassr

For Al-Nassr, the timing of this crisis could hardly be better. Facing an opponent dealing with internal disruption, Jorge Jesus and his player have a clear opportunity to strengthen their position in the league standings.

With Ronaldo continuing to deliver on the pitch with 25 goals this season, the focus now shifts to whether the Knight of Najd can take full advantage of the situation. The absence of a key attacking figure from the opposition may prove decisive in a match where margins are often thin.

Kylian Mbappé has become Real Madrid’s cornerstone after arriving as a marquee signing from PSG. However, the Frenchman was close to joining Barcelona when he was still at AS Monaco. After the departure of Neymar Jr., the Blaugrana were looking for their next star on the left wing, ready to pay a huge transfer fee. While he was a clear option, the staff decided to prioritize the signing of Ousmane Dembélé, as revealed by former president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

“We didn’t want the players to leave for other teams, so we matched the offers. Neymar’s departure led other clubs to pay high amounts… We asked about Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, but the coaching staff preferred Dembélé. The only decision I made as president was the signing of Luis Suárez,” reveló Josep Maria Bartomeu, via Cadena SER.

After several brilliant seasons at AS Monaco, Mbappé pushed for a move away in 2017, with Real Madrid as the main interested party. However, he rejected that option, as Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale would not have guaranteed him a starting role. While he eventually signed for PSG for €180 million, he could have become a Barcelona player had they decided to pursue his signing instead of Ousmane Dembélé, who never truly shined at the club.

While Ousmane Dembélé went on to become one of the best players in the world, the Frenchman had a disappointing stint at Barcelona. Signed as one of the world’s most promising young talents, the Blaugranas expected him to make a major impact on the field, but injuries and poor decisions on field prevented him from shining. In contrast, Mbappé excelled at PSG, becoming the team’s best player, proving that the Spanish club’s decision was completely wrong.

Barcelona’s post-Neymar transfers: Three big failures under Bartomeu

Despite being one of the best players in the world, Neymar Jr. decided to leave Barcelona via his €222M release clause to PSG. While this record fee could have been key to rebuilding the squad, president Josep Maria Bartomeu and his front office instead chose to sign Philippe Coutinho, Ousmane Dembélé, and Antoine Griezmann, all of whom ultimately failed to meet expectations and later left as free agents.

Far from acknowledging the failure of his decisions, Bartomeu chose to justify them in a surprising way: “It’s a shame. Dembélé has succeeded at PSG. Xavi said he shouldn’t have been let go. Maybe he was signed too young, I don’t know. Griezmann came to lead a generational transition, which I may have handled too late. I should have started it after the defeat in Liverpool, and I did it a year later,” he said, via Cadena SER.

In case the Blaugranas had pursued the signing of Mbappé in 2017, he likely would have formed an ideal partnership with Lionel Messi, becoming the cornerstone of the team for the future. Moreover, Coutinho and Dembélé would not have arrived, avoiding the multimillion-dollar failure that shook the club’s financial and sporting stability for years.

At the end of this month, Carlo Ancelotti will have to finalize the 26-man roster that will compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With that deadline approaching, his son and assistant Davide opened up about the challenges facing Brazil.

“If you analyse the actual situation of Brazil, there are really good defenders, some of the best in the world, really good transition players – the wingers, the 10s, and the strikers too,” Davide Ancelotti said in a recent interview with BBC Sport.

“This gives you an idea of what kind of football you can play, but then there is the culture of the nation,” the assistant added, suggesting that not only the players’ attributes and the coach’s opinions matter when defining a national team’s style of play.

“You need to have a clear identity but to adapt. You have to be able to balance your ideas with the characteristics of the players and then the identity of the nation,” Davide explained. “It’s not an easy job… And then you have to win the World Cup as well!”

This perhaps represents the biggest challenge Carlo Ancelotti has faced since taking over Brazil in the summer of 2025. At that time, the team were struggling in the World Cup qualifiers—something the Italian coach quickly managed to fix. However, in terms of on-field performances, they still appear to have room for improvement.

Brazil have a well-defined style

Few national teams in the world have as rich a tradition as Brazil. The great stars who have represented the national team since the 1950s helped shape the style fans expect to see, but that identity has not been easy to maintain in recent years.

Davide Ancelotti described that style as “to play attacking football, winning football, and to play with a smile. You have to consider that.” He also spoke about the fans’ expectations: “Brazilian people love football, they like to joga bonito (play beautifully), but they like to win a lot.”

Brazil’s challenges in recent decades

South Korea – Japan 2002 was Brazil’s most recent World Cup title. That squad perfectly embodied the country’s style, featuring world-class stars such as Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Kaka, Cafu, and Roberto Carlos. Much of that generation also competed at Germany 2006, where they were eliminated by France in the quarterfinals.

Since then, Brazil have struggled to maintain that identity—a challenge Carlo Ancelotti continues to face today. That attacking, seemingly carefree style has not delivered results in subsequent World Cups, where they have fallen short of reaching the final.

Perhaps the closest examples of Brazil’s traditional style came under coach Tite at Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, although they were eliminated in the quarterfinals on both occasions. Now, Ancelotti faces the challenge of changing that narrative and leading Brazil deep into a World Cup once again.

Match Overview

With a spot in the Champions League final on the line, Arsenal hosts Atlético Madrid in a tie that is perfectly balanced at 1-1. The Gunners, who remain the only unbeaten team in the competition this season, carry the pressure of being the home favorite. After a dominant 4-0 victory over the Spanish side in the group stage at the Emirates, expectations are high, but recent struggles for goals have added a layer of tension to this high-stakes encounter.

For Atlético Madrid, this is familiar territory. Diego Simeone’s squad are seasoned veterans in the latter stages of European competition and thrive in the underdog role. Despite a dreadful record on English soil, including three losses this season alone, Atleti proved in the first leg they can disrupt Arsenal‘s rhythm. Their tactical discipline and experience make them a dangerous opponent, ready to capitalize on any nervousness from the home side.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

Arsenal‘s season has been defined by a relentless two-front battle for both the Premier League and Champions League titles. This demanding schedule has led to visible fatigue, with the team winning just two of their last eight matches across all competitions. Their defensive solidity has kept them afloat, but a lack of clinical finishing in knockout games remains a concern. In contrast, Atlético is not in a domestic title race, allowing them to rest key players and focus entirely on this European clash.

The tactical battle will likely pit Arsenal‘s possession-based attack against Atlético’s disciplined, counter-attacking setup. At home, Mikel Arteta’s side will be expected to control the ball and dictate the tempo. However, Atlético is comfortable ceding possession, a strategy they used to successfully eliminate Barcelona. Set-pieces could be decisive, as Arsenal leads the Premier League in goals from dead-ball situations, while Atlético has scored the most set-piece goals in this season’s Champions League.

The motivations are clear: Arsenal is driven to cap a phenomenal season with a trip to the final, while Atlético aims to leverage their vast experience to orchestrate an upset. Fatigue will be a critical factor, as this will be Arsenal‘s 58th match of the season. Atlético‘s ability to manage high-pressure moments gives them a mental edge, turning this into a classic clash of attacking ambition versus defensive resilience.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

History shows a tightly contested rivalry between these two clubs. In their four official meetings, the record is perfectly even, with one win for each side and two draws. A significant trend has emerged in these encounters: the home team has never lost, and neither side has ever managed to secure a victory on the road.

This season, the teams have met twice. Arsenal delivered a commanding 4-0 victory at the Emirates during the group stage, but the first leg of this semifinal was a much cagier 1-1 draw in Madrid. Looking further back, the clubs met in the 2017/18 Europa League semifinal, where Atlético Madrid advanced 2-1 on aggregate, demonstrating their ability to navigate two-legged knockout ties successfully against the Gunners.

While the goal average across their four meetings is a modest 2.2 per game, Atlético’s Champions League campaign has been filled with goals, averaging 4.29 per match. Conversely, Arsenal‘s knockout stage games have been extremely low-scoring, with only six total goals in their last five fixtures. This suggests a tense, strategic affair is likely, though Atlético’s 12-game scoring streak in the competition proves they can find the net against anyone.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both managers face significant selection headaches due to key injuries ahead of this decisive second leg.

For Arsenal, concerns linger over the fitness of Kai Havertz, while Jurriën Timber remains sidelined. However, the Gunners receive a major boost with Bukayo Saka expected to be fully fit and ready to start. His return provides a much-needed spark to an attack that has struggled for consistency in recent weeks, allowing Mikel Arteta to field a formidable front line.

Atlético Madrid‘s injury situation is far more critical, particularly in attack. Strikers Julián Álvarez and Giuliano Simeone are both doubtful after picking up injuries in the first leg, and Nicolás González is also unavailable. This severely limits Diego Simeone‘s offensive options and forces him to rely on Alexander Sorloth to lead the line, supported by the creative genius of Antoine Griezmann.

Arsenal Projected XI (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Martinelli, Saka, Gyokeres.
This lineup represents Arsenal‘s strongest available team. The midfield trio of Odegaard, Zubimendi, and Rice will be crucial for controlling possession, while the return of Saka alongside Martinelli and Gyokeres gives the attack the firepower it needs to break down Atlético‘s stubborn defense.

Atletico Madrid Projected XI (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri; Almada, Koke, Cardoso, Lookman; Griezmann, Sorloth.
Shaped by injuries, this formation prioritizes defensive solidity and midfield control. Griezmann will likely drop deep to connect play, leaving Sorloth as the main target up front. The emphasis will be on maintaining a compact shape and exploiting opportunities on the counter-attack.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid live stream on Fubo. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

In addition to the Champions League, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to other top soccer competitions from around the world. This includes leagues like La Liga, Premeir League, and major tournaments featuring the best clubs and national teams.

A subscription to the platform costs $14.99 per month, offering a comprehensive package for soccer fans who want to follow multiple competitions in one place.

The service also provides a diverse library of non-soccer content. Subscribers can enjoy thousands of movies, TV series, and original programming, making it a complete entertainment solution.

SEE MORE: For more Champions League schedules, check out our Champions League TV schedule page.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

Kylian Mbappé has managed to remain Real Madrid’s standout player, serving as the team’s top scorer. Despite this, the Frenchman has been heavily criticized by fans, as his trip to Italy during the competition, while recovering from an injury, did not sit well. In response, the 27-year-old striker has decided to release a strong statement amid rumors of tensions with Álvaro Arbeloa due to a reported problem during a training session.

According to Mario Cortegana and Guillermo Rai, via The Athletic, Kylian Mbappé was involved in an altercation during a Real Madrid training session, where he ended up strongly insulting an assistant coach acting as the referee in the exercise. Following this, people within the club are reportedly unhappy with the lack of action taken by the front office. In addition, the Frenchman’s trip to Italy did not sit well with the squad.

While recovering from a hamstring injury, Mbappé had been granted a few days off to focus consistently on his recovery process. However, he was seen in Italy while his teammates were playing and training in Madrid, which has sparked strong criticism from key figures within the club, according to The Athletic. As a result, the Frenchman’s commitment and behavior are now being widely questioned.

In the face of widespread criticism from fans, Kylian Mbappé has issued a statement through AFP to clarify the situation: “A portion of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, and does not reflect the reality of Kylian’s commitment and daily work for the team… I’ve reached a point where you’re going to get criticised whatever you do.”

Coupled with this release, head coach Árbeloa tried to defuse the intense criticism directed at Kylian and his trip to Italy in the middle of the season: “In their free time, each player does what they see fit, and I don’t get involved in that… All planning regarding injured players is supervised and managed by Madrid’s medical staff, who are the ones who decide when they need to go to Valdebebas (the club’s training centre) and when they don’t.”

Report: Kylian Mbappé races to recover for El Clásico vs Barcelona

After suffering a hamstring injury just months before the 2026 World Cup, Kylian Mbappé seemed set to remain sidelined for the rest of the season with Real Madrid. In fact, Pablo Gallego reported via Le Journal Du Real that the Frenchman is quite frustrated with Los Blancos, and he will not push to play against Barcelona. However, a new report contradicts this information, making it clear that the 27-year-old striker has already accelerated his recovery.

According to Manuel de Juan via Diario AS, Kylian Mbappé decided to go to Valdebebas despite the team having a day off, in order to work closely with the physiotherapists and fitness coaches of the staff. He also did the same last week, making his priority clear: To be in full shape for El Clásico against Barcelona, aiming to lead another big win and silence doubts about his lack of commitment.

Neymar‘s recent friction with Robinho Jr. dominated headlines over the weekend following a physical confrontation between the two Santos teammates during a training session. The conflict has now escalated to a critical level, as Robinho Jr. is reportedly discussing a contract termination, citing a “lack of security” within the Brazilian club.

Players who missed the recent match against Palmeiras were called in for a Sunday training session, including both Neymar and Robinho Jr. However, Globo Esporte reported an altercation between the two, with allegations surfacing that Neymar slapped the 18-year-old during the session.

While some reports suggest Neymar offered an apology to Robinho Jr., the situation has continued to spiral. The youngster, son of former Brazil international Robinho, has officially notified the club regarding the alleged assault he suffered at the hands of the veteran superstar during Sunday’s practice.

Santos released an official statement confirming that the matter has been elevated to the club’s legal department: “Santos FC informs that, by order of the presidency, an internal inquiry process was initiated immediately following the events to analyze the episode involving athletes Neymar Jr. and Robson de Souza Jr. (Robinho) during training this past Sunday (05/03), at the CT Rei Pelé.“

A conflict that could trigger a contract termination

Reports from Globo Esporte indicate that Neymar attempted to de-escalate the situation by not only apologizing to Robinho Jr. directly but also reaching out to the youngster’s family. Those gestures, however, did not prevent the 18-year-old’s legal team from taking formal action.

According to ESPN Brasil, the attorney representing Robinho’s family has notified Santos of three specific accusations against Neymar, involving verbal insults and physical offenses. Consequently, the legal team has demanded a meeting to discuss a contract termination, citing a “lack of minimum security conditions” for the player at the club.

The eventual consequences for either Neymar or Robinho Jr. remain to be seen as the investigation unfolds. However, reports from R7 Esportes suggest the relationship between the squad and the youngster has soured; his decision to take the matter to the legal department, combined with a perception that he has benefited from his father’s ties to the club, has reportedly damaged his standing in the locker room.

In the meantime, there has been radio silence from both Neymar and his PR team regarding the public fallout. Santos is scheduled to play in Paraguay on Tuesday, May 5th, for the CONMEBOL Copa Sudamericana, a trip for which both Neymar and Robinho Jr. were originally included in the traveling squad.

Lionel Messi has witnessed a significant decline in his Inter Miami squad compared to the roster that claimed the 2025 MLS Cup, prompting the front office to target Casemiro as their next blockbuster signing. However, reports have surfaced revealing that the LA Galaxy have joined the hunt, holding a key procedural advantage over Messi’s side.

Despite pleas from fans, who even composed a chant urging him to stay for another year, Casemiro has decided to leave Manchester United once his contract expires this June. Major League Soccer has emerged as a primary destination for the Brazilian, and while the Herons are highly interested in his services, they could be outmaneuvered in the race for his signature.

According to talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs and Josh Fordham, the LA Galaxy have challenged Inter Miami for Casemiro’s services ahead of the winter transfer window. Crucially, the West Coast club currently holds the midfielder’s “discovery rights,” providing them with a major strategic edge regarding his potential arrival in MLS.

At this stage, Casemiro’s personal preference remains the defining factor for any eventual move. As revealed by Fabrizio Romano, while the Saudi Pro League has expressed interest to the midfielder’s inner circle, the Brazilian’s current intention is to join forces with Messi in South Florida.

Further reports from Diario AS suggest that Casemiro purchased a home in Miami during a recent family vacation, signaling a lean toward the Herons. With an international roster slot still available, Messi could see his midfield significantly bolstered once the 2026 World Cup concludes.

Why Casemiro is a necessity for Inter Miami

Landing Casemiro, a winner of five UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid and a Copa America with Brazil, would represent another massive victory for MLS in attracting global icons to U.S. soil. However, for Inter Miami, the Brazilian wouldn’t just be a marketing boost; he would be a tactical lifeline for a struggling midfield.

Inter Miami has found it difficult to fill the void left by Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. During the 2025 campaign, both players ranked in the top three for completed passes and long balls, while “Busi” also led the team with 2.5 tackles per game, according to SofaScore. The board signed David Ayala to bridge the gap, but personal struggles and injuries have limited the Argentine to just four appearances this season.

In the 2026 MLS campaign, Rodrigo De Paul currently ranks second among midfielders in completed passes (73.9) and leads the league in long balls (5.2). While those numbers are impressive, the lack of a true holding midfielder alongside him has forced De Paul into a deeper defensive role. This has diminished his impact in the final third, as he is preoccupied with a buildup phase that Miami continues to find challenging.

A disciplined holding midfielder like Casemiro fits Inter Miami’s current needs perfectly. In the Premier League this season, Casemiro leads Manchester United in tackles (2.7) and ranks second in long balls (2.4) per game. He represents the most natural replacement for Busquets, offering a solution to a midfield zone where the Herons are currently struggling both offensively and defensively.

Arsenal face Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, May 6, at the Emirates Stadium in the second leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinal tie. With a place in the Budapest final tantalizingly close, the Gunners’ path to Hungary remains uncertain heading into the decisive match.

In the first leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano last week, Arsenal took the lead through Viktor Gyokeres from the penalty spot, only to be pegged back by Julián Álvarez, who converted another penalty in the 56th minute to level the tie at 1-1 on aggregate, leaving everything to be decided at the Emirates.

Since that result in Spain, Arsenal’s morale has been given a significant boost by a dominant 3-0 home win over Fulham, which reclaimed top spot in the Premier League as Manchester City dropped points against Everton. Atletico, meanwhile, secured a 2-0 away victory at Valencia but notably rested the majority of their key starters ahead of Tuesday’s second leg.

How an Arsenal win affects the Champions League bracket

A victory for Arsenal on Tuesday would send the Gunners through to the UEFA Champions League final, where they would await the winner of Wednesday’s other semifinal between Bayern Munich and PSG in Germany to learn their opponent in Budapest.

It would also mark Arsenal’s first appearance in the Champions League final since 2006, when they faced FC Barcelona at the Stade de France in Paris. On that occasion, Sol Campbell gave the Gunners the lead, but goals from Samuel Eto’o and Juliano Belletti completed a 2-1 Barcelona comeback. Nearly two decades on, Tuesday represents another chance for Arsenal to finally claim European soccer’s ultimate club prize.

How an Arsenal draw affects the Champions League bracket

If the two sides cannot be separated after 90 minutes at the Emirates, the tie will move to extra time, regardless of the scoreline. Since the 2021-22 season, UEFA has officially abolished the away goals rule across all of its club competitions, meaning a draw at full time will not favor either side and the match will be decided over two additional 15-minute periods.

As the second leg, a definitive winner must be determined. Should the scores remain level after 120 minutes, the tie will go to a penalty shootout for a place in the final.

How an Arsenal defeat affects the Champions League bracket

A defeat for Arsenal on Tuesday would end their 2025-26 Champions League campaign, with the 1-1 aggregate score meaning any loss at the Emirates would send Atletico through to the final in Budapest.

It would also bring to an end an impressive unbeaten run in the competition. Arsenal have gone 13 games in this season’s Champions League without defeat, winning 10 and drawing three across the league phase and the knockout rounds, making any elimination on home soil an especially painful way to go out.

Carlo Ancelotti has begun finalizing the details of his Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup, with the tournament now less than 40 days away. A positive development has emerged amid a turbulent few weeks, with the CBF and Manchester United reportedly reaching an agreement over Matheus Cunha‘s workload for the remainder of the Premier League season.

The timing could hardly be better. A string of injuries has complicated Ancelotti’s planning in recent days, with Rodrygo and Eder Militao both suffering season-ending setbacks and Estevao’s participation now in doubt due to a hamstring tear. Against that backdrop, positive news surrounding one of the Selecao‘s key attackers has been a welcome development.

According to ESPN Brasil, the Brazilian Football Confederation and Manchester United have reached an understanding over Cunha’s involvement in the closing rounds of the 2025-26 Premier League season. The English club is set to hold the Brazilian forward back from the final three matchdays in order to ensure he arrives at the World Cup fully fit.

The decision carries added significance given that Cunha has been managing an adductor problem in recent days. Despite the issue, he featured against Liverpool and made a decisive contribution, scoring in a 3-2 victory that secured Manchester United’s return to the UEFA Champions League.

With that primary objective already achieved, United now find themselves in a position to do Ancelotti a favor. Although Cunha is physically able to play, the spirit of the agreement, as reported by ESPN, is rooted in caution, with the goal of ensuring he is at one hundred percent for the World Cup.

Cunha has appeared in eight of the ten matches Ancelotti has overseen as Brazil head coach. While he has contributed only two assists in those appearances, he has consistently lined up alongside Vinicius Junior and Raphinha in the forward line and is clearly regarded as a key figure in Ancelotti’s plans.

Which games will Cunha miss?

Cunha joined Manchester United from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a fee of €74.2 million and is completing his first season at the club, having helped deliver the primary goal of Champions League qualification. Across 33 appearances, he has scored nine goals and added four assists, and his absence will be felt in the final stages of the campaign.

With United sitting third in the Premier League table, three fixtures remain in the 2025-26 season. The Red Devils travel to Sunderland on May 9, host Nottingham Forest on the 17th, and close out the campaign away at Brighton on the 24th.

Cristiano Ronaldo was in the lineup as Al Nassr saw their historic winning streak snapped against Al Qadsiah, a match in which star winger Sadio Mane was a notable scratch. Following the loss, head coach Jorge Jesus detailed the reasons behind the star’s sudden absence from Sunday’s contest.

Despite traveling with the squad to Dammam’s Prince Saud Bin Jalawi Stadium, Mane was dropped from the roster due to a last-minute complication. The move forced Jesus to shuffle his attacking line, deploying Angelo on the left wing. However, both Angelo and Kingsley Coman failed to make an impact out wide, struggling to provide service to Ronaldo in the center forward position.

The gamble ultimately did not pay off; Angelo was often forced into defensive areas with far less influence than his Senegalese counterpart and was eventually substituted due to injury in the 76th minute. Al Nassr insider Ali Alabdallh later reported that Mane felt a localized pain that prevented him from taking the pitch against Al Qadsiah.

When asked for specifics during the post-match press conference, Jesus provided insight into his selection process: “I chose not to include Mane in the squad. He’s one of the players in Al Nassr that has played the most matches, and was also one of the players attacked on the weekend caught by the flu upon returning from a team trip, and had some difficulties.“

While the bold decision to rest the winger coincided with the end of the club’s 20-game winning streak, Jorge Jesus stood by his move. “I looked for a fresher player down the left, so I took the decision for Mane to not play. We’ve already rested several players, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix,” the Portuguese boss concluded.

Mane: Al Nassr’s talisman in the 2025-26 season

In terms of pure minutes for Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo ranks 7th (2,814′) and has seen significantly more club action than Mane, who sits in 11th (2,360′), according to Transfermarkt. However, the 646 minutes Mane logged for Senegal during the mid-season AFCON have made him one of the most-used players in the world this season. When he is available, he has proven to be a lucky charm for the Saudi side.

To date, Mane has appeared in 32 matches for Al Nassr across all competitions, tallying 13 goals and eight assists. While his raw stats may trail those of Ronaldo, Felix, or Coman, the team’s success rate with him is undeniable: Al Nassr has won 31 of the 32 games Mane has played. Without him, the club has struggled through 13 matches with a record of seven wins, one draw, and five defeats.

Simakan and Angelo under the spotlight

Following Sunday’s loss, Jorge Jesus granted the squad a rest day to recover from a dense schedule involving the AFC Champions League Two and the Saudi Pro League. As the team prepares to return to training on Tuesday, the health of Mohamed Simakan and Angelo will be the primary focus.

According to Al Arriyadiyah, the medical staff will brief the technical team on the results of examinations for both players before training begins. Simakan and Angelo both sustained injuries during Sunday’s match; while Simakan managed to play until the final whistle, Angelo was forced off early. Their recovery will be critical as Al Nassr enters the final stretch of the title race.

Following a historic tenure at Liverpool, Mohamed Salah has decided to leave the club at the end of the season as a free agent. As a result, the Reds are reportedly targeting world-class signings on the wings, as the Egyptian’s legacy will be very difficult to replace. In light of this, they have prioritized the signing of Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain as a marquee reinforcement for the 2026-27 season.

According to The Times, the Reds have decided to pursue the signing of Bradley Barcola as a replacement for Mohamed Salah. While Michael Olise and Yan Diomande had emerged as alternatives, the PSG star is the absolute priority to strengthen the squad, as he can operate on both the right and left wings. Under contract until 2028, the 23-year-old star is open to a move as he is not a starter under head coach Luis Enrique.

Bradley Barcola seemed to establish as an undisputed starter at PSG, arriving as a marquee signing from Olympique Lyon for €45 million. While he managed to become one of the best players in the world, the emergence of Désiré Doué has significantly reduced his role in the starting lineup, even becoming a substitute in the UEFA Champions League. Therefore, the Frenchman could view a move to Liverpool favorably, as he could be an undisputed starter.

Seeking his departure from Paris Saint-Germain, Barcola has decided to part ways with Jorge Mendes as his agent, hiring Moussa Sissoko instead. Despite this, the French side does not intend to sell the 23-year-old star for less than €80 million, a figure Liverpool are willing to meet, reports Diario Sport. However, the Frenchman is also attracting strong interest from Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal FC, who are ready to compete for his signature.

Report: PSG target Gabriel Martinelli as a replacement for Bradley Barcola

Under head coach Luis Enrique, Paris Saint-Germain have become one of the best teams in the world. With Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué, they possess one of the most powerful attacking trios in the world, once again shining in the UEFA Champions League. Therefore, the French side is not completely closed to the sale of Bradley Barcola, as they have reportedly identified Gabriel Martinelli as his replacement.

According to L’Équipe, PSG have decided to pursue the signing of Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal in case Bradley Barcola chooses not to renew his contract and leaves the team. Although the Brazilian star is also not an undisputed starter at the English side, he has proven to be a highly decisive player, capable of operating on both wings. Additionally, he could be available for $67.6 million, as the Gunners are looking to make changes to their squad.

Casemiro has been a mainstay alongside Neymar for the Brazil national team over the last decade, and while the 2026 World Cup is expected to be the final bow for both stars, the former Barcelona man’s inclusion remains up in the air. Amid uncertainty over whether head coach Carlo Ancelotti will call upon the veteran forward, the Manchester United midfielder has backed Neymar to embrace a limited role during the tournament.

Currently 34 and playing out the final months of his Manchester United contract, Casemiro has once again become a vital piece for Ancelotti, just as he was during their time at Real Madrid. Neymar’s situation has been the polar opposite, as constant fitness setbacks have hampered his return to form following the ACL injury he suffered back in 2023.

In an interview with ESPN Brasil, Casemiro was asked if keeping Neymar on the bench would create friction: “Neymar was always a guy who wanted to have fun on the pitch. And I think if you talk to him, in my opinion, his desire to play in a World Cup—if you propose that, if Ancelotti proposes that (coming off the bench) to him—I think he will want to go to the national team because he wants (to play the World Cup). Then he gets there and proves it on the pitch and in training.“

The midfielder noted that this “bombshell” decision rests entirely with Ancelotti, whom he believes is the right manager to navigate the delicate situation. “But I think if you talk, I think there would have to be a conversation and you just sit down and talk: ‘Look, you won’t play as many games, but look at a specific match, you’re going to be crucial in those 20 minutes, 30 minutes. Or you’re going to play this game.’ I think it’s just a conversation.“

The constant debate over Neymar’s World Cup status

Even before Carlo Ancelotti took the reins as Brazil‘s head coach, Neymar’s potential return had been a recurring debate among fans and the media. With the Italian now in the dugout and the Santos star still working his way back, the discussion has only intensified, with several teammates being asked for their input and Ancelotti himself giving a viral response during a recent carnival.

Casemiro made his frustration with the ongoing speculation clear: “It’s annoying because everyone talks about it, everyone asks and everyone answers, but it’s very annoying. Especially for me. Honestly, I am a friend of Neymar’s. I’m a guy who has played with Neymar since we were 12. And so, it’s that thing: is Neymar going or not? And everyone is in suspense. I think it’s very clear. Neymar doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone.”

While expressing his admiration for his longtime teammate, the midfielder echoed Ancelotti’s stance that physical fitness remains the primary requirement for every player on the roster. “He’s the star of the team. He’s the man. But the question here—and it’s up to him as well—is being physically well,” he finished.

Neymar’s 2026 campaign to date

As Casemiro noted, Neymar’s inclusion in Ancelotti’s final squad list, set to be released on May 18th, depends on his fitness. While his start to 2026 was slowed by recovery from knee surgery, recent glimpses of his former self suggest a return to the Selecao is possible.

Neymar has featured in 11 of the 27 games Santos has played so far this year, returning to action in mid-February and tallying four goals and three assists. Encouragingly, he completed the full 90 minutes in nine of those appearances, proving his durability is slowly trending upward.

Notably, he recently navigated a three-game stretch between April 11th and 19th, playing 90 minutes against Atletico Mineiro, Recoleta FC, and Fluminense in just nine days. Though he has been rested for two of the last three matches, Neymar is showing signs that he is regaining the fitness levels necessary to keep pace in a demanding tournament like the World Cup.

Raphinha has emerged as one of the world’s top players under Hansi Flick, powering Barcelona‘s attack with both goals and assists. Despite his solid performances, the Brazilian star is not experiencing his best season due to several injuries. Nevertheless, he continues to attract the attention of many teams as the Blaugranas could receive a €90M offer from the Saudi Pro League, but his refusal to consider a transfer has raised questions.

According to Sacha Tavolieri via SkySports, the Blaugranas are aware they will receive a €90 million offer from the Saudi Pro League, managed directly by agent Pini Zahavi. With this, Raphinha could be tempted by a contract running beyond 2028 and a salary of €30 million net per season. While he is a key player for head coach Hansi Flick, they are open to his departure for a major fee, as they aim to raise funds to pursue new signings.

Despite the multimillion-dollar offer, Raphinha is fully determined to stay at Barcelona, rejecting any move in the summer of 2026. His wife, Taia Belloli, even reacted with laughing emojis to a Diario AS report suggesting the Brazilian was looking to leave the club after the UEFA Champions League exit. However, the Blaugrana are still considering his departure as an extreme measure if they are unable to complete the sales of other stars.

In case he stays at Barcelona, head coach Hansi Flick will likely keep him as an undisputed starter, as he has managed to stand out in terms of goalscoring despite his physical issues. With this in mind, the Brazilian star could aim to first win the UEFA Champions League with the Blaugranas, serving as a key attacking figure alongside Lamine Yamal. Given his importance in the squad, the 29-year-old could remain at the club at all costs.

Barcelona reportedly chase promising backup for Raphinha

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Raphinha has suffered four muscle injuries, causing him to miss 23 matches, with Marcus Rashford and Dani Olmo stepping in as his replacements in the starting lineup. For this reason, Barcelona are reportedly determined to pursue the signing of a left winger, as the Brazilian star is already 29 years old and his recurring muscle issues raise serious concerns. For this reason, Jan Virgili’s comeback is gaining increasing momentum.

While Marcus Rashford and Víctor Muñoz have emerged as marquee options, the high price of the Englishman and Real Madrid’s buy-back rights complicate a move for the Spaniard. With this in mind, Barcelona are reportedly targeting the return of Jan Virgili, who was transferred to RCD Mallorca. Holding 40% of his future sale, Barcelona could re-sign the 19-year-old star for around €24M, making him the most viable long-term option.

If Virgili’s return is confirmed, Raphinha would become the ideal mentor for the Spaniard, guiding his development as a veteran leader. Far from complicating matters, this would actually strengthen the Brazilian’s position, as the 19-year-old star might not yet be ready to be an undisputed starter, needing his presence to continue his development. Furthermore, Jan is a Barcelona youth product, so he would have no trouble adapting to Hansi Flick’s style.

Bruno Fernandes is wrapping up yet another season as Manchester United‘s most influential player, a distinction he has held since arriving at Old Trafford in 2020. More than six years on, the Portuguese midfielder has now reached the 140 Premier League goal contribution milestone in fewer appearances than Cristiano Ronaldo managed for the same club.

Despite having genuine opportunities to leave on multiple occasions, most notably during last summer’s transfer window, Fernandes chose to stay and captain United through a season without European soccer. The decision has paid dividends, with the club now on the brink of Champions League qualification, largely on the strength of his continued output.

His assist to Benjamin Sesko in last week’s 2-1 win over Brentford brought Fernandes to exactly 140 Premier League goal contributions at Manchester United. The split between those contributions is itself remarkable: 70 goals and 70 assists across 226 appearances, a perfectly even balance that underlines his rare ability to function as both a finisher and a creator at the highest level.

Cristiano Ronaldo reached the same 140-contribution mark across his two stints at the club, but it took him 236 Premier League appearances to get there, ten more than Fernandes. As a more natural forward, Ronaldo’s breakdown was more weighted toward goals, scoring 103 and providing 37 assists during his time in Manchester.

Ronaldo and Fernandes: two of the most influential Portuguese players in United’s history

During his first stint at Old Trafford from 2003 to 2009, Ronaldo was still developing into the elite goalscorer he would become at Real Madrid. Nevertheless, under Sir Alex Ferguson, he made 196 Premier League appearances, scoring 84 goals and recording 34 assists, and played a central role in delivering one of the club’s last league titles as well as its most recent Champions League trophy in 2008.

His second chapter at the club, prompted in part by Sir Alex’s personal intervention to steer him away from Manchester City, saw Ronaldo return as a veteran and eventually complete his 140-contribution landmark. Between August 2021 and his abrupt departure in November 2022, he added 40 more Premier League appearances, scoring 19 goals and contributing three assists.

Fernandes, meanwhile, arrived from Sporting CP as a mature, finished product and immediately assumed responsibility for driving the team’s attack, adapting quickly to the demands of the Premier League but without the domestic trophy haul that defined Ronaldo’s first stint. His finest individual season came in 2020-21, when he scored 18 goals and registered 12 assists across 37 league appearances.

Heading into the final stretch of the current season, Fernandes sits on 19 league assists, one short of the all-time single-season Premier League record of 20, while also having added eight goals this campaign. Though his time at United has not been defined by silverware in the way Ronaldo’s first spell was, both men stand as the two most influential Portuguese players in the club’s modern era: one who shaped the club’s greatest years and another who became its standard-bearer through its most difficult period.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Alessandro Bastoni has been labeled the absolute priority to reinforce Barcelona’s defensive line. Following his defensive mistakes with Italy in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the defender is reportedly looking to leave Serie A. In response, Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has described Barcelona’s interest as superficial and not very concrete, casting doubt on his potential departure.

“Bastoni is a talented player. He’s had some bad luck in certain situations and everyone has eyes on him… He’s a great champion and that’s why top European clubs are on him. I won’t hide the fact that there’s Barcelona but it’s still very superficial and not very concrete. As we’ve always said: a player leaves when he expresses the desire to leave. Right now, Bastoni is ours, he wants to stay with us and we are happy to keep him,” Marotta said, via Radio Anch’Io Sport.

Despite his recent defensive mistakes, Bastoni remains one of the best left-sided defenders in the world, providing consistency and playing a key role in build-up play. In addition, the Italian is already one of the leaders in the Inter Milan dressing room, having been an undisputed starter for more than four years. Because of this, the Nerazzurri are reportedly demanding a transfer fee of around €70 million (around $81.8 million), making his departure more complicated.

In an effort to raise the quality of their defensive line, the Blaugranas are open to offering a transfer fee close to €50 million (around $58.4 million), which appears to be delaying negotiations with Inter Milan. Because of this, president Marotta’s comments highlight a clear issue: The significant difference in valuation is preventing Alessandro Bastoni’s departure. If Barcelona want to secure the Italian, they will have to increase their bid.

Report: Barcelona eye two alternatives as Bastoni deal stalls

Even though Gerard Martín has surprised with his impact as a central defender, Barcelona are targeting Alessandro Bastoni as a key difference-maker, aiming to bring defensive balance. Faced with ongoing difficulties with Inter Milan, they have reportedly decided to prepare alternatives, as Hansi Flick needs a left-footed defender. In this context, Evan Ndicka and Cristian Romero have emerged as alternatives to the Italian ahead of the summer of 2026.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Blaugrana have added Evan Ndicka of AS Roma to their transfer shortlist. Standing out in Serie A, the French defender would be a much more affordable option, with an estimated value of around €40 million, which they would aim to reduce further. In addition, he has proven to be one of the most consistent players in the squad, playing a key role even in build-up play and the team’s ball progression.

Along with Ndicka, Barcelona are reportedly targeting Cristian Romero. Despite being the captain of Tottenham Hotspur, he is looking to leave the team in search of a competitive project. In the event of a relegation to the EFL Championship, they could seek a transfer fee of around €50-60 million or less, as he is a proven leader, and reliable, reports Diario Sport. However, Alessandro Bastoni remains the priority, so they will try to secure his signing until the very last moment.

Jules Koundé has gone from being one of the best defenders in the world to one of the best right-backs in the world. Due to his outstanding consistency, he has become an undisputed starter for Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick, providing balance to the defensive line. Because of his great performances, the Frenchman could be tempted by a move to the Premier League, as Liverpool are reportedly open to offering $93.6 million for his transfer in the summer of 2026.

As reposted by Gabriel Sans, via Mundo Deportivo, the Reds are fully open to offering €80 million (around $93.6 million) for Jules Koundé, as they are in need of a reliable right-back. After costing Barcelona €50 million (around $58.5 million) in 2022, they would reportedly be willing to sanction his departure for a similar or higher fee, as he is under contract until 2030 and remains undisputed for head coach Hansi Flick.

Since being converted into a right-back, Jules Koundé has become as one of Barcelona’s best players, being solid both defensively and offensively. However, the emergence of Eric García as a right-back option, along with Xavi Espart, has opened the door to a potential exit for the Frenchman. Despite this, he has not yet given the green light to a move to the Premier League, casting doubt over negotiations with Liverpool in the coming months.

Given Barcelona’s need to reinforce both defense and attack, Koundé’s departure could be an emergency solution to help fund necessary signings and comply with LaLiga’s 1:1 rule. However, the Blaugrana are also considering the departures of Ronald Araújo, Alejandro Balde, Marc Casadó, and Roony Bardghji in order to raise funds for the squad rebuild required, reports Diario AS. In case they are able to reach the funds, the Frenchman could remain in the squad.

Report: Barcelona have identified Andrei Ratiu as Koundé’s replacement

Barcelona have reportedly identified Julián Álvarez and Alessandro Bastoni as absolute priorities to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2026-27 season. However, the potential departure of Jules Koundé could force an unexpected reinforcement at right-back, aiming to replace him in the starting lineup. With this in mind, Hansi Flick’s team has decided to target Andrei Rațiu as an alternative to the Frenchman.

According to Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are eyeing Andrei Rațiu from Rayo Vallecano as a right-back reinforcement. While he is already 27 years old, the Romanian full-back stands out as an attractive profile due to his consistency over the years. However, he has renewed his contract until 2030 with a €25 million release clause, meaning Barcelona would need to negotiate a transfer, complicating his arrival due to the high cost.

With Xavi Espart and Hector Fort as future options, Ratiu would be seen as a player who can make an immediate impact while those two young players continue to develop their great potential. However, Andrei’s arrival could raise doubts, as he has yet to play for a team that competes for the LaLiga title and the UEFA Champions League season after season. Consequently, the Romanian star might have to push for a transfer at a lower cost to be seen as a viable option.

In the midst of a disappointing season, Real Madrid have suffered significant injury absences, affecting their consistency. One of the most sensitive losses has been Thibaut Courtois. While Andriy Lunin has been solid, the Belgian star’s absence has been strongly felt, with a lack of security between the posts. However, the 33-year-old goalkeeper is reportedly close to rejoining the squad to face Barcelona in LaLiga clash.

According to Abraham P. Romero, via El Mundo ES, Thibaut Courtois has returned to Real Madrid training, completing it without any issues. With this, the Belgian goalkeeper appears to have put his muscle tear injury behind him and is expected to start in El Clásico against Barcelona in LaLiga. Following his return, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa regains one of the undisputed leaders of the dressing room, aiming for a crucial victory.

With Courtois back, Los Blancos hope to avoid a defeat and prevent Barcelona from being crowned league champions in El Clásico, avoiding a humiliating outcome. However, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa will need to maintain a solid defensive structure, something that has been significantly weakened following Éder Militão’s absence. Despite this, they could rely on Vinícius Jr.’s strong form as their main hope of securing victory.

Kylian Mbappé in doubt as Real Madrid face Barcelona with absentees

After being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League and sitting 11 points behind the top of LaLiga, Real Madrid are having a thoroughly disappointing season. Despite this, they need to finish the campaign with a run of victories, aiming to avoid seeing Barcelona crowned champions in El Clásico. To do so, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa faces a difficult challenge, as he regains Courtois, but there are serious doubts over Kylian Mbappé along with two other key absences.

Kylian Mbappé’s availability remains uncertain, as he underwent a fitness test today, May 4, and will do so again on Wednesday to determine whether he can feature in El Clásico, reports Abraham P. Romero via El Mundo ES. With this situation, Los Blancos could lose their top scorer, once again turning to Gonzalo García, who had a strong performance against Espanyol, forming a solid partnership with Vinícius Jr. in attack.

Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa will also be unable to count on Ferland Mendy and Dani Carvajal. While the Frenchman will be out for five months following surgery, the Spaniard will miss two weeks and is expected to return for the final match against Athletic Bilbao, reports Fabrizio Romano via X. In addition, Real Madrid will also be without Arda Güler, Rodrygo Goes, and Éder Militão, leaving them significantly limited ahead of their clash against Barcelona in LaLiga.

Match Overview

The stakes could not be higher as Manchester City travels to the Hill Dickinson Stadium in a crucial Premier League showdown. Pep Guardiola‘s side is locked in a fierce title race, sitting just three points behind league leaders Arsenal with a game in hand. Currently riding an impressive 11-game unbeaten streak in the league, the Citizens know that any dropped points could be fatal to their championship aspirations. The pressure is immense, and they arrive on Merseyside with a single objective: secure all three points.

Everton, however, has everything to play for. Under David Moyes, the Toffees are enjoying their best Premier League season since 2020-21 and are in a tight battle for European qualification. Despite their strong campaign, a recent dip in form, marked by a three-game winless run, has added a sense of urgency. Facing the reigning champions is a monumental task, but a statement win at home could reignite their continental dreams and cap a remarkable season.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This match presents a classic clash of season trajectories. Manchester City is in relentless pursuit of another title, showcasing formidable consistency and defensive solidity. Having conceded the fewest goals since their 2021-22 campaign, their machine-like efficiency has kept them in the hunt for a domestic treble. In contrast, Everton’s season has been one of resurgence and grit, transforming from relegation battlers into European contenders. However, their momentum has recently stalled, making this fixture a critical test of their resolve.

The tactical battle will likely pit City’s fluid, possession-dominant style against Everton’s disciplined and rugged defensive structure. David Moyes is known for organizing his teams to be compact and difficult to break down, particularly against elite opposition. The Toffees will likely cede possession and look to frustrate City, hoping to strike on the counter-attack. The key to the match will be whether City’s creative talents can unlock a well-drilled Everton backline that has proven tough to crack at home.

Motivation is clear and potent on both sides. For Manchester City, the path to the title is straightforward: win every remaining game and let the pressure shift back to Arsenal. Their entire focus is on maintaining perfection during this intense run-in. For Everton, the goal is to halt their recent slide and secure a place in Europe, a prize that would signify a massive step forward for the club. With only a few games left, every point is vital, and they will fight to protect their home turf.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been overwhelmingly dominated by Manchester City. The Citizens are unbeaten in their last 18 meetings with Everton, a run of dominance that underscores the challenge facing the Toffees. Everton’s last victory against City dates all the way back to 2017, and reversing that trend will require a monumental effort against a team in peak form.

Recent encounters tell a similar story. Manchester City has won five of the last six clashes, including a 2-0 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season. Furthermore, City has won each of its last nine visits to Everton‘s home ground, scoring more than 1.5 goals in eight of those matches. This history suggests City has a clear psychological edge and a proven formula for success in this specific matchup.

Neymar Jr. has become as one of the best players of the recent era. Not only did he dominate with Barcelona, but also with Brazil, becoming the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer. Even though the final years of his career have not been the most impressive, two-time Brazil World Cup winner Cafu has backed the 34-year-old’s return to the national team, making a surprising comparison with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Two-time World Cup-winning Brazilian Cafu decided to openly support the 34-year-old star’s return to the national team, drawing a surprising comparison. “If Neymar is in good shape — physically fit, tactically fit, technically fit — it’s obvious he’s a player who decides games. But only Ancelotti can decide and only Neymar can know if he’s ready… For me, Neymar was technically even better than (Cristiano) Ronaldo and Messi,” he said, via The Times.

Although Neymar Jr. did not win a Ballon d’Or, he did compete directly with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo season after season to be the best player in the world. With his pace, dribbling, and game intelligence, he defined an era at Barcelona and PSG, captivating many fans who saw him as a difference-maker and a leader in his position. In addition, the Brazilian star has scored 454 goals, leaving his mark on soccer history.

Far from Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo being surpassed, Neymar Jr. was a completely different kind of player from both legends, arguably the best in the world in his own profile. As injuries affected his career, he has evolved into a more complete player, distributing play as an attacking midfielder and elevating his teammates. Because of this, Cafú is backing his return to Brazil, as he remains one of the most technically gifted players on the planet.

Neymar Jr.’s legendary career cements his global legacy

Despite injuries cutting short his rise, Neymar Jr. managed to build a legendary legacy in soccer history. After scoring 79 goals, he surpassed Pelé as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer. In addition, he established as one of the most complete players in the world, being fully compatible with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez in the historic ‘MSN’ attacking trio. Alongside this, he became PSG’s fourth all-time top scorer, pathing a huge legacy in all his teams.

Neymar Jr. may be Brazil’s most decisive player in 2026 World Cup

Unlike Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr. has gone through several disappointing recent seasons, with injuries playing a major role in his career. However, the veteran now appears to be regaining his full impact at Santos FC, leading the attack as the creative focal point. With this in mind, the 34-year-old star could become Brazil’s most decisive player at the 2026 World Cup.

While Raphinha and Vinícius Jr. are expected to lead Brazil’s attack, they have not managed to be truly decisive under Carlo Ancelotti. Because of this, Neymar Jr. could help elevate the team’s creative side, aiming to boost his teammates’ scoring output, a main problem ahead the anticipated tournament. Although he has not been part of the head coach’s process, the number of injuries could open the door for a strong return.

Match Overview

Chelsea enters this crucial Premier League fixture in a state of crisis, desperate to salvage their season. Currently sitting in eighth place, the Blues are chasing a European qualification spot but are haunted by a devastating run of five consecutive league losses without scoring a single goal. The recent FA Cup semi-final victory over Leeds has provided a sliver of hope under a new interim manager, but the pressure is immense to translate that cup form into a statement win at Stamford Bridge.

Nottingham Forest arrives in London with a completely different momentum. Engaged in a fight for survival, Forest is on a six-match unbeaten streak in the league, a run that has pulled them five points clear of the relegation zone. However, their focus is split, as this match is critically positioned between the two legs of their Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa. Manager Vítor Pereira faces the challenge of balancing the immediate need for league points with the historic opportunity of a European final.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The season trajectories of these two clubs could not be more different. Chelsea has endured a tumultuous campaign marked by inconsistency and a mid-season managerial change, culminating in their worst league scoring drought since 1912. In stark contrast, Nottingham Forest has found form at the perfect time, transforming from relegation candidates into one of the league’s most resilient teams with a massive +11 goal differential over their unbeaten streak.

The tactical battle at Stamford Bridge is set to be a classic clash of styles. Chelsea, despite their finishing woes, ranks highest in the league for expected goals (xG), indicating they consistently create scoring opportunities and will likely dominate possession. Forest, however, has become masters of the counter-attack. They proved their lethal efficiency in a 5-0 demolition of Sunderland with just 39% possession and have scored an astonishing nine goals from only 20 shots in their last two league games.

Motivation for both sides is at a fever pitch, but for different reasons. For Chelsea, this match is about restoring pride, ending a miserable league run, and keeping their faint hopes of European football alive. For Nottingham Forest, the primary objective is securing their Premier League status for another year. A win would likely guarantee survival, but with a massive Europa League tie looming, the club may be forced to prioritize, potentially resting key players and settling for a draw on the road.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, Chelsea has had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of the last five encounters, with Nottingham Forest managing just one victory and one match ending in a draw. The Blues are currently on a three-game unbeaten streak against Forest, demonstrating a clear recent advantage in head-to-head matchups.

Looking at the most recent results, Chelsea secured a convincing 3-0 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season and has kept a clean sheet in their last two games against Forest. However, it’s worth noting that two of the last three meetings at Stamford Bridge have ended in a draw, suggesting that Forest is capable of frustrating the home side in their own stadium.

Key statistical trends reveal a low-scoring history between these teams. Forest has scored only a single goal against Chelsea in their last three meetings combined. Furthermore, only two of the last five clashes have seen both teams find the back of the net, with the matches averaging a modest 2.4 goals per game.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both squads are contending with significant availability issues, with Chelsea‘s extensive injury list being compounded by a suspension, while Nottingham Forest must manage fatigue and potential rotation.

Chelsea‘s interim manager faces a selection headache with several key players sidelined. Mykhaylo Mudryk is suspended, while Reece James, Levi Colwill, and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens are among those on a long-term injury list. The latest blow is a hamstring injury to Estêvão, which has put his World Cup hopes in jeopardy.

Nottingham Forest is also missing key personnel, including Callum Hudson-Odoi and Willy Boly for the remainder of the season. Manager Vítor Pereira’s main challenge will be managing his squad’s fitness, with this Premier League game falling between two crucial Europa League semi-final legs. Dan Ndoye is the newest injury concern and is likely to miss the trip to London.

Chelsea Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Lavia; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Joao Pedro.
This lineup leverages Chelsea‘s creative midfield trio of Palmer, Fernandez, and Neto to generate chances for their top scorer, Joao Pedro. The Brazilian has been a rare bright spot this season, netting 14 Premier League goals, and will be the focal point of their attack.

Nottingham Forest Projected XI (4-4-2): Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Cunha, Williams; Hutchinson, Sangare, Anderson, Gibbs-White; Jesus, Wood.
Forest is expected to field a disciplined 4-4-2 formation designed to absorb pressure and strike quickly on the break. The partnership of Jesus and Wood up front provides a physical presence and a direct threat, perfectly suited to exploit any defensive gaps left by an attacking Chelsea side.

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Neymar‘s time at Santos has been anything but straightforward, and even as he focuses on forcing his way into Brazil‘s 2026 World Cup squad, another controversy has emerged. Reports have claimed the superstar clashed with Robinho Jr., the son of former Brazil international Robinho, during a training session.

Having been left out of Santos’ Saturday fixture against Palmeiras at the Allianz Parque due to the artificial turf surface, Neymar took part in a Sunday training session at the club’s facility. The session brought together reserve team players and those who had not featured the previous day, including both Neymar and the 18-year-old Robinho Jr.

According to Globo Esporte, an altercation broke out between the two players during the Sunday morning session at the CT Rei Pelé. The Brazilian outlet reports that Neymar grew irritated after being dribbled past by the teenager, responding after asking the youngster to ease up during the drill.

The confrontation escalated beyond words, with the two players reportedly engaging in a pushing match. At least one source contacted by Globo Esporte claims to have witnessed Neymar slapping Robinho Jr., and also catching the youngster with a trip that lifted him off the ground.

The episode was all the more surprising given that Neymar has been something of a mentor to Robinho Jr. since the teenager began making his way through the Santos setup. The young forward’s father, former Real Madrid and Manchester City striker Robinho, was a longtime national team teammate of Neymar’s, and the two families have remained close over the years, making the training ground incident all the more jarring.

None of the parties involved, including Santos, Robinho Jr.’s representatives or Neymar’s press team, have commented publicly on the matter. However, according to Globo Esporte, Neymar approached Robinho Jr. to apologize for his behavior before leaving the training facility, with the situation resolved before the end of the session.

Neymar set to feature in Santos’ next game

After missing the game against Bahia through rest and the Palmeiras fixture due to the turf issue, Neymar has appeared in just one of Santos’ last three matches, a Copa Sudamericana clash against San Lorenzo. With his World Cup place far from secure, however, the former PSG and Barcelona star is set to return to the starting lineup at the first available opportunity.

At Sunday’s press conference, Santos head coach Cuca confirmed that Neymar will start against Deportivo Recoleta in Paraguay on Tuesday. “They’ve already sold all the tickets there; Neymar is going to play, of course he’s going to play. After that, he’ll have a run of games leading up to the call-up, doing his best and staying energized. Now, it’s about leaving everything on the pitch, helping us and helping himself,” Cuca said.

Santos currently sit at the bottom of Group D and are in desperate need of a victory against Recoleta. Following that match, the club has four more games before Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti announces his World Cup squad on May 18, and Cuca has made clear his intention to keep Neymar in the lineup and give him the run of matches he needs to make his case.

Kylian Mbappe has found himself at the center of controversy despite his contributions throughout the 2025-26 season, with his recent travels outside of Spain drawing scrutiny from within the dressing room. Reports have now surfaced suggesting that his behavior ahead of the El Clasico against FC Barcelona has unsettled some of his Real Madrid teammates.

In last week’s match against Real Betis, Mbappe was forced off in the 81st minute with what was later described as a muscle strain in the semitendinosus muscle of his left leg. The injury ruled him out of the subsequent game against Espanyol, and cast serious doubt over his availability for the Clasico.

With Real Madrid sidelined from all other competitions and Barcelona on the cusp of clinching La Liga, images of Mbappe enjoying time in Cagliari and Sardinia, Italy, went viral over the weekend. The sight of the injured forward vacationing abroad while his teammates prepared for the Espanyol fixture did not go down well with fans, and it appears the reaction inside the locker room was not much warmer.

According to Spanish outlet El Mundo, Mbappe’s decision to travel during his recovery has generated friction within Real Madrid’s squad. Given that the injury was described publicly as relatively minor, a number of players are reported to have taken issue with the timing and optics of his latest getaway.

It was not the first time Mbappe’s travel habits had drawn attention. Earlier in the year, he had made a trip to Paris to undergo treatment for a knee injury, with two Real Madrid physiotherapists accompanying him and the full backing of the club and his teammates at the time. However, the latest episode has proven more divisive, particularly with the squad already staring down a trophyless season.

Real Madrid got past the Espanyol test on Sunday with a 2-0 win, with Vinicius Junior shouldering the attacking responsibility in Mbappe’s absence and scoring both goals. The El Clasico, the match that could officially hand the La Liga title to Barcelona, is scheduled for Sunday, May 10, and expectations remain high that Mbappe will be fit to feature, though the consequences of his recent trips have yet to fully play out within the squad.

Arbeloa backs Mbappe amid the scrutiny

While speculation over Mbappe’s future at the club continues to swirl, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa remains focused on steering Real Madrid through the final weeks of a challenging season. The latest controversy has added yet another layer of turbulence to an already difficult campaign.

When asked about the situation in his post-match press conference following the Espanyol win, Arbeloa defended Mbappe’s right to manage his recovery as he sees fit: “All planning for injured players is supervised and handled by Real Madrid’s medical services; they are the ones who control when someone should go to Valdebebas and when they shouldn’t. Beyond that, everyone does what they deem appropriate in their free time; I cannot interfere there.”

Pressed further on the question of Mbappe’s commitment to the club, Arbeloa did not waver in his support. “I don’t doubt the commitment of any of my players; I believe they all know how important these matches are for us. When you defend the Real Madrid shirt, when you are in this house, you understand the demands of this club. It’s as if they understand what they represent, where they are, and how important it is. And the luck they all have — that we all have — to be at Real Madrid,” he concluded.

Cristiano Ronaldo could not prevent Al Nassr‘s defeat on Sunday against Al Qadsiah, which brought the club’s remarkable winning streak to a halt with a 3-1 loss. While the Portuguese legend helped push the run to 20 consecutive victories, he ultimately fell short of the career-best streak he had set during his time at Real Madrid.

Al Nassr‘s winning run had stretched all the way back to January 17, some 106 days earlier, beginning on Matchday 16 against Al Shabab. Goals from Mohammed Abu Shamat in the 24th minute, Musab Al-Juwair in the 55th and Mexican international Julian Quiñones in the 78th were enough to end the streak, with Joao Felix’s 39th-minute strike accounting for Al Nassr’s only reply, leaving the club with just three games to go in the league season.

The 3-1 defeat brings to a close what stands as the longest winning streak in Al Nassr’s history. The run was made up of 16 consecutive Saudi Pro League victories and four wins in the AFC Champions League Two on the way to reaching the final.

However, the longest winning streak of Ronaldo’s career remains untouched. That benchmark dates back to the 2014-15 season, when between September 2014 and January 2015 he was part of a 22-match unbeaten winning run with Real Madrid.

That streak began on September 16, 2014, with a 5-1 home victory in the opening matchday of the 2014-15 UEFA Champions League against FC Basel, with Ronaldo contributing a goal and an assist. The run spanned La Liga, the Champions League, the Copa del Rey and the FIFA Club World Cup before finally coming to an end on January 4, 2015, with a 2-1 away win over Valencia in La Liga, in which Ronaldo scored Real Madrid’s only goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s contribution across both winning streaks

Despite more than a decade separating the two runs, Ronaldo has been a pivotal figure in both, consistently contributing at both ends of the pitch, though his impact has been notably different in each setting.

During his career-best streak at Real Madrid, Ronaldo sat out just two games, both Copa del Rey ties against UD Cornellà in which coach Carlo Ancelotti elected to rest him. Across the remaining 20 matches, he scored 28 goals and delivered 12 assists, producing a staggering rate of 1.4 goals per game and 2.0 direct goal contributions per appearance. The run also yielded the FIFA Club World Cup, with victories over Mexico’s Cruz Azul and Argentina’s San Lorenzo.

During the most recent streak with Al Nassr, Ronaldo participated in 14 of the 20 games, missing six in total. Two of those absences came in the AFC Champions League Two Round of 16 against FK Arkadag, where coach Jorge Jesus chose to rest him, while the remaining four were Saudi Pro League matches: two in early February during his voluntary boycott of the league and two more in late March while sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Across the 14 games he did feature in, Ronaldo scored 11 goals and contributed two assists, staggering figures for a player who turned 41 while the streak was still alive. His performances helped Al Nassr reach the AFC Champions League Two final and maintain their position at the top of the Saudi Pro League, with the title still firmly in their own hands.

Al Nassr’s record-breaking winning streak came to a halt on Sunday as Al Qadsiah handed them their first defeat in over 100 days. Despite the 3-1 setback in Saudi Pro League action, Cristiano Ronaldo sent a motivational message to his teammates as they enter the final sprint of the title race.

Mohammed Abu Al-Shamat opened the scoring for Al Qadsiah before Joao Felix found the equalizer in the 39th minute. However, the tide turned in the second half, with Musab Al Juwayr and Mexico international Julian Quinones finding the net to seal the result against an Al Nassr side that appeared to run out of ideas.

Ronaldo remained vocal after the match despite being unable to find the back of the net himself. “One mission. We keep working. TOGETHER!,” the Portuguese legend posted on social media, calling for his teammates to maintain their focus in the wake of the significant blow.

While Quinones extended his lead at the top of the SPL Golden Boot race, now sitting on 29 goals, Ronaldo struggled to keep pace with the Mexican star. In a game where Al Nassr found clear looks hard to come by, Ronaldo’s best opportunities came in the 37th minute when he rattled the bar, and again in stoppage time with a shot that grazed the right post.

For the team, the defeat served as a major reality check, marking the first time Al Nassr has dropped points since January 12th while snapping a 16-game winning streak in the SPL and a 20-game run across all competitions. On that previous occasion, Ronaldo’s side also fell 3-1 to Al Hilal; exactly 111 days later, they suffer a nearly identical loss at a critical juncture of the season.

What’s next for Al Nassr?

Al Nassr remains at the top of the Saudi Pro League with 79 points through 31 games, but Al Hilal, who hold a game in hand, could cut the gap from five points to two when they face Al Khaleej midweek. Nevertheless, the push for the league title still rests in Al Nassr’s hands with only three games remaining.

Following Sunday’s loss, Al Nassr travels to face Al Shabab on Thursday, May 7th. That matchup serves as the precursor to a massive, title-deciding showdown against Al Hilal on May 12th at Al Awwal Park.

Since Kylian Mbappé’s arrival, Vinícius Jr. has noticeably dropped his level at Real Madrid, drawing significant criticism from fans. Although he has not managed to match his performances from previous seasons, he remains one of the team’s most productive players, contributing both creatively and in terms of goals. In fact, the Brazilian star has joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in an exclusive scoring list for Los Blancos.

According to MisterChip, via X, Vinícius Jr. has joined the list of Real Madrid players who have scored 20+ goals in all competitions in 5+ consecutive seasons. With this, the Brazilian star joins Pahiño, Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, Hugo Sánchez, Raúl González, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema. After achieving this, he has already become a historic figure for the club, even leading two UEFA Champions League titles as a key player.

Vinícius Jr. has scored 20 goals and provided 14 assists in the current season for Los Blancos. With this, the Brazilian has proven to be the team’s most complete forward, playing a key role in the collective game. Although his performances are not as explosive as in previous seasons, he has shown consistency and established as a leader in the dressing room, helping to guide the team to several titles since his arrival.

Despite the Brazilian’s strong impact, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema remain well above him in Real Madrid’s historical hierarchy. Not only did both win Ballon d’Or awards, but they are also the club’s two all-time top scorers. In addition, they managed to stay among the best players in the world for more than 10 years, leaving a major legacy at Los Blancos. With this in mind, Vinicius Jr. still has a tough path to follow.

Vinícius Jr. receives unfair criticism from Real Madrid fans

Over the last two seasons, Vinícius Jr. has become a source of criticism from fans, despite still being highly productive. However, Kylian Mbappé’s arrival has completely unbalanced his role, forcing him to change positions and significantly limiting his impact. Rather than the Frenchman adapting, all the coaches have tried to adjust the Brazilian instead, exposing him considerably.

Both Vini Jr. and Mbappé tend to operate in the same areas: The left flank. While the Frenchman starts as a centre-forward, he does not play as a traditional striker, often drifting into the left side occupied by the Brazilian. Because of this, the 25-year-old star has adapted to a more complete role, focusing on collective play, but the lack of freedom he once had has caused his numbers to drop.

If Kylian Mbappé were to fully adapt as a central striker, Vinícius Jr. could continue thriving on the left wing, something that already worked with Karim Benzema. However, the Frenchman still appears to enjoy positional freedom, which limits the Brazilian. Therefore, the challenge for Álvaro Arbeloa or any future coach will be to structure the attack so that both can shine at the same time.

Inter Miami suffered one of the most stunning defeats of the 2026 MLS season, squandering a 3-0 lead in the Florida Derby as Orlando City completed a heroic 4-3 comeback. In the aftermath of the collapse at Nu Stadium, Ian Fray revealed that captain Lionel Messi addressed the dressing room afterward and called the result “unacceptable.”

Fray had opened the scoring with a header from the left in the fourth minute, before Messi set up Telasco Segovia in the 25th and then added his own name to the scoresheet with a brilliant finish in the 33rd. From there, Martin Ojeda’s hat trick and Tyrese Spicer’s goal in the 90th minute turned the game completely on its head, handing Orlando a 4-3 victory.

Speaking to the media in the mixed zone, Fray was asked about the mood and the conversation that took place in the locker room, and he made clear that Messi had been the one to address the group. “Yes, the captain spoke and gave us a lot of motivational words ahead of the upcoming match.

“He said that this is unacceptable, and it’s something we all completely agree with — this is unacceptable, and it certainly won’t happen again,” Fray added. The defender had exited the game in the 66th minute in what appeared to be an injury, replaced by Facundo Mura, though he showed no obvious signs of distress afterward, providing a small measure of relief for the club.

The defeat marked the worst single-game comeback Messi has experienced in his career, and Inter Miami continue to struggle to recapture the form that carried them to the 2025 MLS title. Next up, the Herons travel to Canada to face Toronto FC on Saturday, May 9, a game Messi is already locked in on after Saturday’s humbling result at their home ground.

Messi and a heated exchange with the referee

Saturday’s Florida Derby was not without its off-ball drama, as several Inter Miami players clashed with referee Guido Gonzalez Jr. throughout the match. One of the main grievances centered on the foul count, with Miami whistled for 18 infractions compared to just five for Orlando, a disparity that frustrated multiple players throughout the night.

The third yellow card of the night for Miami arrived in the 59th minute when Rodrigo De Paul was booked for protesting a decision. A similar moment followed in the 78th minute involving Messi, who was cautioned after voicing his displeasure with Gonzalez Jr. following the referee’s decision to award Orlando a penalty after a foul by Maxi Falcon, with the Argentine arguing that several other fouls had gone uncalled against his side.

Fray was also asked about the official’s performance and did not hold back. “I think this referee has something against maybe some of the players of our team — it’s just as simple as that,” he said, before stressing that the result ultimately rested on his team’s shoulders. “You should never lose a game going 3-0,” he added.

Vinícius Jr. has become one of the best players in the world, shining with Real Madrid. Despite this, he has always been heavily debated with Brazil, as he has not managed to deliver a similar impact to the one he has at club level. Adding further depth to the criticism, 2002 World Cup-winning head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has admitted that he does not consider the 25-year-old star as the main figure, pointing to Argentina as a key example.

“I don’t see Vinicius Jr. as a main figure for Brazil. The main thing for Brazil is to do what Argentina’s head coach did. He put everyone in a position to understand that they had a star: Messi. Get the ball to Messi. We’re not going to be better than Messi, so we’ll do what’s best for Messi, and Argentina became champions… I think it’s important to have a single player who is aware of his qualities and can help the team,” Scolari said, via DSports.

Unlike previous generations of Brazil, there is no longer a clear main star due to Neymar Jr.’s absence. While earlier eras featured Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Romário, and others, the national team is not at its best right now, forcing them to adjust their approach and focus on collective play as their main strength. Although Vinicius Jr. shines at Real Madrid, he has not managed to replicate that level with the national team.

Across his 48 matches for Brazil, Vini Jr. has recorded just 8 goals and 8 assists, making him more of a secondary figure. Despite this, the arrival of Ancelotti could help unlock his best version, with the 2026 World Cup serving as a platform to boost his legacy and establish as the undisputed leader. However, Carlo has decided that his team will not revolve around any single player, but rather around a collective idea, making everyone important.

Vinicius Jr. and Raphinha aim to lead Brazil at the 2026 World Cup

Following Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival, Brazil have significantly improved their competitiveness ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Not only do they now have a clear collective playing identity, but they have also improved considerably on the defensive end. However, they have already lost several players such as Rodrygo Goes and Éder Militão, along with uncertainties surrounding Estêvão. In response, Vinícius Jr. and Raphinha are expected to lead the team’s attack.

Ancelotti has decided to rely on Vinícius Jr. and Raphinha as his difference-makers, giving them creative freedom. However, Brazil do not play to maximize their individual strengths; instead, both are aimed to boost the collective play with their talent, making them central axis. With this approach, they could bring out the best in João Pedro or Endrick, or allow others to stand out, but always with a clear principle: Collective play over individual qualities.

Eduardo Camavinga established as one of the best midfielders in the world, operating as a box-to-box player. In addition, he became a key figure for France thanks to his versatility and defensive reliability. However, he now appears to be at risk of losing his place in the 2026 World Cup squad, as head coach Didier Deschamps is reportedly unsure about calling him up due to his inconsistency at Real Madrid.

According to Telefoot, head coach Didier Deschamps is not fully convinced about calling up Eduardo Camavinga for the 2026 World Cup roster. Not only has he failed to stand out at Real Madrid, but he also did not manage to impress during the March friendlies, even ending up on the bench in both matches. Despite this, the Frenchman remains optimistic, aiming to regain his best form during what remains of the season.

Throughout the UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers, France chose to rely on Manu Koné, N’Golo Kanté, Adrien Rabiot, and even Aurélien Tchouaméni. While Deschamps tends to make numerous rotations, Camavinga has not been a player with much playing time. Despite this, Didier could still call him up due to his great versatility, being able to play as a left-back and in other positions, but he needs to regain consistency.

Eduardo Camavinga is no longer an undroppable player for France, as Tchouaméni and Kanté dominate the defensive midfield role. Because of this, he now has to compete for a spot as an interior midfielder in the national team, where he faces serious disadvantages. Without being a playmaker or a midfielder who stands out for his imposing physicality, he risks being left out of the anticipated tournament.

Eduardo Camavinga seems to have lost his place at Real Madrid

Eduardo Camavinga emerged as a regular starter under Carlo Ancelotti, becoming Real Madrid’s starting defensive midfielder. With his defensive consistency and attacking ability, he was a key player for the team. However, the Frenchman now appears to be losing his place, as neither Xabi Alonso nor Álvaro Arbeloa have opted to start him, with him even being relegated in favor of Thiago Pitarch, recently promoted from the academy to the first team.

While Arbeloa favors a fairly crowded midfield, Camavinga has become the last option in the rotation, only coming on for a few minutes without making much of an impact. In addition, the Frenchman has also not been used at left-back, as Álvaro Carreras, Fran García, and Ferland Mendy occupy the entire rotation in that position. With this in mind, he appears to be one of the players set to leave the club, as reinforcements are expected in the summer of 2026.

After a disappointing season, Real Madrid are looking to make several adjustments, including a potential change in head coach, offering him a new opportunity. However, this depends on whether he manages to stand out in pre-season or the departure of another star. If he leaves, PSG and Liverpool are reportedly interested in pursuing his signing, which Los Blancos might view positively due to the number of players they already have with similar profiles.

Match Overview

All eyes turn to Mexico City for what shapes up as one of the marquee quarterfinal clashes, as historic rivals Pumas UNAM and Club America collide in another high-stakes edition of the Clasico Capitalino with a semifinal berth hanging in the balance.

Pumas arrive with momentum after finishing atop the regular-season standings—level on points with Chivas but ahead on goal differential—positioning themselves as the team to beat, yet America’s proven pedigree in rivalry matchups and postseason pressure adds an unpredictable edge, setting the stage for a fierce unpredictable battle.

Lionel Messi contributed to the scoresheet and put Inter Miami in a seemingly commanding position before Orlando City pulled off a stunning 4-3 comeback at Nu Stadium. The shocking result has raised the question of whether this is the most dramatic reversal Messi has ever experienced in his professional career.

The Herons jumped out to an early lead through Ian Fray in the fourth minute, before Messi teed up Telasco Segovia in the 25th, and then scored a stunning goal himself in the 33rd to make it 3-0. From there, the unthinkable unfolded, as Martín Ojeda completed a hat trick and Tyrese Spicer struck in stoppage time to complete an extraordinary comeback, leaving Inter Miami still searching for any semblance of consistent form.

The result also marked a historic first in Messi’s senior professional career: never before had a team he was part of surrendered a three-goal lead in the same game. In fact, throughout his career, a three-goal cushion had never even resulted in a draw for his side, yet Orlando not only leveled the score but went on to claim all three points.

On the Champions League stage, Messi did experience two seismic collapses with Barcelona. The first came in 2018 when, after a 4-1 first-leg victory over AS Roma in the quarterfinals, the Blaugrana were eliminated following a 3-0 defeat in Rome. The second and more iconic collapse came the following season when Liverpool overturned a 3-0 aggregate deficit at Anfield with a stunning 4-0 victory.

However, both of those examples unfolded across two legs. Within a single game, Wednesday night against Orlando represents the first time in Messi’s career that a three-goal lead has been squandered entirely. He has seen two-goal advantages slip away before, most memorably in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinal and final against France, but never has a team of his lost from three goals up inside 90 minutes.

The alarming result against Orlando continued to spotlight two persistent weaknesses in Inter Miami‘s 2026 campaign. The striking corps of Germán Berterame, Luis Suárez and Tadeo Allende have struggled badly for goals, while the defensive record has been equally worrying, with 13 goals conceded across the last seven matches.

Unwanted history in MLS too

Inter Miami played their first five MLS games on the road ahead of the inauguration of Miami Freedom Park, now Nu Stadium, on April 4. But with three draws and a defeat in four home games since, the Orlando collapse added yet another unwanted footnote to what has been a difficult stretch at their new ground.

Orlando’s comeback from 3-0 down to win is only the third time in MLS history that a team has overturned such a deficit to claim victory. They join the LA Galaxy, who came from 3-0 down to win 4-3 in the first-ever Los Angeles derby in 2018, and the Seattle Sounders, who completed the same feat against D.C. United in a 4-3 result in 2017.

Christian Pulisic began the 2025-26 season as AC Milan’s undisputed leader, standing out both in goals and assists. Despite this, the USMNT star has experienced a noticeable drop in form, facing constant criticism and raising doubts about his continuity. In response, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has come out in defense of the 27-year-old star, making his support clear for extending his stay at the club.

“For the future, these difficulties won’t weigh he’s strong, he belongs to Milan, and players like him are hard to find. You have to evaluate the whole picture, not just the last season. Recently he’s lacked goals, but he’s done well,” AC Milan‘s Massimiliano Allegri said in the latest press conference.

With his contract with the Rossoneri running until 2027, with a unilateral option until 2028, Pulisic’s continuity has been an absolute priority for the front office. However, both parties have decided to pause all negotiations, aiming to fully focus on securing qualification for the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League. Despite this, the USMNT star remains committed to staying, as he has Allegri’s backing.

Despite Massimiliano Allegri’s support, Christian Pulisic still needs to recover his best form, as he remains goalless in 2026 and continues to show an inconsistent level. With the 2026 World Cup just a few months away, he could use the tournament as a catalyst to rediscover his best version, aiming to make a decisive impact in the 2026-27 season, alongside new signings and a potentially renewed attacking setup for the Rossoneri.

Christian Pulisic may be tempted to join Manchester United

Throughout the season, Christian Pulisic’s future has been linked with a potential return to the Premier League. While the USMNT star is expected to remain at AC Milan, Manchester United have reportedly decided to pursue his signing. After securing qualification for the 2026-27 Champions League, they are preparing for departures in attack, making the 27-year-old an ideal solution.

According to TEAMtalk, the Red Devils have decided to prioritize the signing of Pulisic over Rafael Leão. Following the potential departure of Joshua Zirkzee, they are looking for a versatile player capable of fitting on both wings and in the attacking midfield role. In addition, the USMNT star has not made any progress in contract renewal talks with AC Milan, so they are looking to take advantage of the situation to complete his signing.

Cristiano Ronaldo has become one of the greatest soccer players in history. He has not only broken goal-scoring records, but also transformed his national team into a winning one. Despite this, former Portugal head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari made a surprising comparison between the veteran and Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho, making it clear that he was never a natural star like them, while offering an important clarification.

“He was never a crack like Messi or Ronaldinho—he made himself into one. He looked for alternatives. Players like Messi, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Ronaldo, and Maradona already know where the ball will be; Cristiano doesn’t. He was a player who chased situations to turn himself into a crack. And now, at 41, he’s heading to another World Cup thanks to his persistence, determination, and dedication. He has a wonderful heart,” Luiz Felipe Scolari said, via DSports.

Far from criticizing Cristiano, Scolari was highlighting a clear virtue of his career: Hard work. Unlike many soccer legends, the Portuguese star did not start as an elite player but managed to become one through dedication and persistence, winning several individual awards and dominating an era alongside Lionel Messi. Moreover, he scored more goals after turning 30 than in his earlier years, establishing as one of Real Madrid’s greatest legends.

Even though Lionel Messi seemed to dominate the recent era on his own with his natural talent, Cristiano Ronaldo managed to compete with him directly, winning five Ballon d’Or awards along with five UEFA Champions League titles. In addition, he is approaching 1,000 goals, further cementing a legendary era in soccer. Because of this, he has placed firmly in the GOAT conversation, alongside the Argentine, Diego Maradona, Pelé, and others.

Cristiano Ronaldo reshaped Portugal’s history, leading a winning era

Throughout history, Portugal have had many soccer legends, such as Eusébio, Deco, Luís Figo, Paulo Futre and others, making them a very attractive national team. However, they did not manage to win any titles during their time, disappointing tournament after tournament. Unlike them, Cristiano Ronaldo did transform the history of the national team, turning them into a highly competitive side and even favorites for the 2026 World Cup.

Under Fernando Santos and Roberto Martinez, Portugal won the first three titles in their history: the 2016 UEFA Euro, the 2018–19 UEFA Nations League, and the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League. In all of them, Cristiano emerged as a key figure on the field, standing out not only for his goals but also for his leadership. Furthermore, they have a very promising team that is emerging as a contender to win the World Cup, which would further elevate the veteran forward’s legacy.

Along with these titles, Cristiano Ronaldo has emerged as Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer with 143 goals. With this, he surpassed Pauleta and Eusébio, who finished with 47 goals and 42 goals, respectively. Because of this, the veteran forward can indeed be considered the most important figure in the history of the national team, having a completely historic impact.

Match Overview

Fresh off a signature victory over Al Ahli, Al Nassr return to action with confidence surging and their grip on the title race intact, holding a five-point cushion over Al Hilal as the season nears its decisive stretch. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading the charge, the message inside the locker room is clear: every remaining fixture is must-win territory.

Awaiting them is a dangerous Al Quadisiyah side currently fourth with 65 points, still battling to secure a top finish and eager to play spoiler in a matchup loaded with stakes on both sides of the table—don’t miss what promises to be a pivotal showdown.

Match Overview

With the La Liga title race nearing its conclusion, Real Madrid find themselves under intense pressure. Kylian Mbappe and company know very well that a victory is essential to keep their slim championship hopes alive.

However, Espanyol won’t make it easy as they continue their push to secure safety, sitting five points above the relegation zone, all while Barcelona edges closer to lifting the trophy after a 2–1 win over Osasuna, leaving virtually no margin for error for Real Madrid.

Al Nassr have put together an impressive run of 16 consecutive victories, moving ever closer to the Saudi Pro League title. With this in mind, they visit Al-Qadisiya today, aiming to extend their strong streak with the attacking firepower that makes them the league’s top offensive team. To that end, fans are keeping a close eye on Cristiano Ronaldo’s status ahead of the game, as he is expected to be decisive.

Cristiano Ronaldo has managed to avoid injuries and physical fatigue in recent matches, so he is in top condition. With this in mind, Al Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus will start him, as he is coming off a goal in the previous game and could do it again. Additionally, the Portuguese striker will be looking to close the gap on Julián Quiñones and Ivan Toney in the scoring charts.

Coupled with the Portuguese veteran, Al Nassr will line up Joao Felix, aiming again for the imposing offensive duo that has dominated the league. After losing the last four encounters against Al-Qadisiya, they are set to impose their prowess, securing first place in the charts. For that reason, Iñigo Martinez and Mohamed Simakan will lead the defense again, looking to stop Julián Quiñones’ good form.

While Al-Qadisiya are not competing to win the Saudi Pro League, they have been one of the league’s top teams. With their attacking firepower led by Julián Quiñones, they will look to defeat Al Nassr as they push to fight for third place in the standings. Additionally, they could take advantage of the large spaces left by head coach Jorge Jesus’s high press to secure a fifth consecutive victory.

Al-Qadisiya lineup vs Al Nassr

Al-Qadisiya enter the match against Al Nassr with four key absences: Waleed Al-Ahmad, Turki Al-Ammar, Mateo Retegui, and Julian Weigl due to injury. As a result, head coach Brendan Rodgers will expected to make significant changes to his starting lineup, as they have managed to shine offensively. However, they face the tough challenge of being consistent defensively, as Cristiano Ronaldo’s team is the best attacking side in the Saudi Pro League.

Considering this, Al-Qadisiya will play as follows: Koen Casteels; Muhammad Abu al-Shamat, Jehad Thakri, Nacho Fernández, Gastón Álvarez; Musab Al-Juwayr, Nahitan Nández, Otavio, Christopher Bonsu Baah; Abdullah Al Salem, Julian Quiñones.

Al Nassr lineup vs Al-Qadisiya

Like Al-Qadisiya, Al Nassr enter today’s match with three absences: Raghid Alaa Najjar, Mubarak Buainain, and Sami Al-Najei. However, head coach Jorge Jesus still has his top players in peak condition, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix standing out the most. In addition, they have Kingsley Coman and Angelo, who can dominate with their pace. Despite this, they face the difficult task of stopping Julián Quiñones, who is in excellent goal-scoring form.

With this in mind, Al Nassr will lineup as follows: Bento Krepski; Nawaf Boushal, Mohamed Simakan, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Iñigo Martinez; Marcelo Brozovic, Abdullah Alkhaibari; Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, Angelo, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Match Overview

Aston Villa returns to Villa Park with their sights firmly set on securing a coveted Champions League spot. Unai Emery‘s side has been a force at home, transforming their stadium into a fortress where they have won 17 of 24 competitive matches this season. With an eight-point cushion over sixth place, the mission is clear: capitalize on their momentum and lock down a top-five finish in front of their home crowd.

For Tottenham, the stakes are dramatically different. Mired in a shocking relegation battle, Spurs travel to Birmingham with an urgent need for points. Despite their abysmal season, their away form has been a rare bright spot, ranking seventh in the league. A recent, hard-fought victory over Wolves snapped a long winless streak, but now they face a far more formidable opponent in a match that could define their fight for Premier League survival.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This fixture presents a stark contrast in season trajectories. Aston Villa, under the masterful guidance of Unai Emery, has been a model of consistency, challenging for European football’s elite competition. Conversely, Tottenham‘s campaign has been a stunning collapse, with Roberto De Zerbi‘s squad now desperately fighting to avoid a catastrophic drop to the Championship. Villa‘s organized and potent attack meets a Spurs side battling inconsistency and a crippling injury list.

The tactical battle will likely be decided on the flanks. Villa‘s primary strength lies in its blistering wing play, where Emery will instruct his players to isolate and overwhelm Tottenham‘s full-backs. This strategy directly targets one of Spurs‘ most significant defensive vulnerabilities. To counter, Tottenham must adopt an aggressive, high-pressure approach out of sheer necessity, but Villa‘s disciplined structure and home advantage should give them the upper hand in controlling the game’s tempo.

Motivation could not be more polarized. While Villa is driven by the ambition of Champions League qualification, they have a comfortable lead and a Europa League semi-final to consider. For Tottenham, this is a matter of survival. Sitting two points from safety with only four matches remaining, every tackle, pass, and shot carries immense weight. The desperation of their situation demands a performance full of grit and determination.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Recent history heavily favors the home side, as Aston Villa has established clear dominance in this fixture. The Villans have won their last four consecutive matches against Tottenham across all competitions, showcasing a tactical and mental edge over their London rivals. The last time these two clubs shared the points was in a 2012 draw, underlining the decisive nature of their recent encounters.

Looking at the last five meetings, Aston Villa has won four, with Tottenham managing just a single victory. Goals have been a consistent feature, with both teams finding the net in four of those five clashes. The 2-1 scoreline has been particularly common, occurring three times, including in both of Villa‘s wins against Spurs earlier this season. Villa has demonstrated an ability to consistently breach the Tottenham defense.

Statistically, this matchup promises offensive action. The last five head-to-head games have produced an average of 4.0 goals per game. Villa‘s attack has been particularly effective, scoring exactly two goals in each of their last four victories over Spurs. Furthermore, with Tottenham having failed to score in just four of 17 away games and Villa failing to score in only four of 17 home games, the data points toward another lively contest.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Tottenham arrives at Villa Park in the midst of a severe injury crisis, while Aston Villa manages more contained, yet still significant, fitness concerns. The visitors are missing a host of key players, forcing manager Roberto De Zerbi to field a heavily depleted squad for this critical relegation six-pointer.

Aston Villa‘s primary concerns are in midfield, with Boubacar Kamara out for the season and Amadou Onana a doubt for the match. This places extra responsibility on the returning John McGinn and his partners to control the center of the park against a desperate Spurs side. Unai Emery will need to manage his squad’s fitness carefully, with this game sandwiched between two crucial Europa League semi-final legs.

Tottenham‘s injury list is extensive and has been a major factor in their downfall. The recent season-ending injuries to Xavi Simons and Dominic Solanke were devastating blows. They join a long-term absentee list that includes Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski, and Mohammed Kudus, leaving De Zerbi with limited options to mount a survival bid.

Aston Villa Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Maatsen; Bogarde, Tielemans; McGinn, Barkley, Rogers; Watkins.
This is Emery‘s trusted formation, designed for balance and firepower. Ollie Watkins will lead the line, supported by the creative trio of McGinn, Barkley, and Rogers. With injuries in the holding midfield roles, the performance of Tielemans and Bogarde will be vital in shielding the defense and launching attacks.

Tottenham Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Kinsky; Porro, Danso, van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Bissouma; Kolo Muani, Gallagher, Tel; Richarlison.
This lineup is a reflection of Spurs‘ injury woes. Richarlison is expected to spearhead the attack, relying on the pace and energy of Kolo Muani and Tel on the wings. The makeshift backline and midfield will face a severe test against one of the league’s most effective home teams.

More details on how to watch

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Match Overview

One of the most intense rivalries in world soccer reignites as Manchester United hosts Liverpool at Old Trafford in a crucial Premier League showdown. The hosts, enjoying a significant resurgence under manager Michael Carrick, aim to solidify their third-place standing and make a statement against their historic rivals. Having turned their home ground back into a fortress, United enters this clash with momentum and confidence, viewing this match as a critical test of their progress.

For Liverpool, the stakes are equally high. While a top-five finish and Champions League qualification seem likely, a victory at Old Trafford is about more than just points; it’s about pride and rectifying a season marked by inconsistency. Arne Slot‘s squad has struggled on the road, and overcoming a confident United side will require a massive performance. With both teams possessing potent attacks and defensive vulnerabilities, this North West Derby promises high drama and urgency from the first whistle.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This season has seen contrasting fortunes for these two giants. Manchester United has transformed under Michael Carrick, evolving from a team in disarray to a disciplined and effective unit. Their climb to third in the table is built on tactical clarity and newfound stability. In contrast, Liverpool‘s campaign has been a story of adaptation and inconsistency. While they remain in fourth, their performance has fallen short of the high standards set in previous years, particularly away from Anfield.

The tactical battle will likely be decided in the midfield and during transitional phases. Manchester United thrives in open games, utilizing quick counter-attacks where Bruno Fernandes can orchestrate play. The Portuguese midfielder, who leads the league in assists, will be the central figure for the home side. Liverpool is not a team that sits back, which should play into United‘s hands, but also presents a threat. Even without the injured Mohamed Salah, Liverpool possesses the quality to exploit any defensive gaps United leaves open.

Motivation for both squads extends beyond the three points. For United, a win would be a powerful endorsement of Carrick‘s leadership and a step closer to securing a top-three finish. For Liverpool, winning at Old Trafford would be a massive morale boost and a way to salvage a challenging season. With both teams almost certain of Champions League football next season, the lack of jeopardy could lead to an open, attacking spectacle where both sides push for a decisive victory.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

The historical rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool is legendary, but recent encounters have been remarkably balanced. Over the last five meetings in all competitions, both clubs have secured just one victory each, with the other three matches ending in a draw during regular time. This equilibrium underscores how tightly contested this fixture has become, with neither side able to establish clear dominance.

Looking at the most recent results, Manchester United claimed a significant 2-1 victory at Anfield earlier this season, a rare win at Liverpool‘s home ground. Prior to that, the teams played out three consecutive draws at Old Trafford in 2024, including a thrilling 4-3 FA Cup victory for United after extra time. The only clean sheet in the last five clashes came in a 3-0 win for Liverpool at Old Trafford in September 2024, highlighting the defensive challenges both teams often face in this matchup.

Statistically, this fixture consistently produces goals. Each of the last five head-to-head duels has featured over 2.5 goals, with both teams finding the net in four of those games. The average goals per game across these encounters is a staggering 4.2, signaling a high probability of another action-packed, high-scoring affair. Bettors and fans should anticipate an open game where both attacks are likely to shine.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both managers are contending with significant roster issues, as Manchester United faces defensive shortages while Liverpool‘s attacking firepower has been seriously depleted.

For the home side, Michael Carrick will be without two key central defenders. Lisandro Martinez is serving a suspension, and Matthijs De Ligt is sidelined with a back injury, forcing a reshuffle at the back. Furthermore, both Matheus Cunha and Luke Shaw are questionable after picking up knocks in the recent win against Brentford. Their availability will likely be a match-day decision, adding another layer of uncertainty to United‘s defensive and attacking setup.

Liverpool‘s concerns are primarily at the other end of the pitch. The devastating loss of both Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike to injury strips the team of its most reliable goal threats. While goalkeeper Alisson is expected to return after missing the last match, the absence of his star forwards puts immense pressure on Alexander Isak to lead the line. Arne Slot will need his midfield creators to step up and provide the necessary service to a makeshift front three.

Manchester United Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Heaven, Shaw; Mainoo, Casemiro; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.
This lineup relies heavily on the creative genius of Bruno Fernandes in the number ten role. With Casemiro and Mainoo providing a solid midfield base, United will look to get the ball to their wide players quickly and exploit Liverpool‘s defensive frailties, especially on the counter-attack.

Liverpool Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Gakpo; Isak.
In the absence of Salah, the creative burden falls on the midfield trio of Szoboszlai, Wirtz, and Mac Allister. Alexander Isak will be the focal point of the attack, and his ability to hold up play and link with the runners from deep will be crucial to Liverpool’s chances of breaking down the United defense.

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The service is available for $69.99 per month or as part of a larger bundle. This plan gives you access to a massive library of live and on-demand content, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.

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Match Overview

Expect a high-intensity showdown as Pachuca and Toluca square off after nearly identical regular-season runs, separated by just a single point. Pachuca secured fourth place with 31 points but stumbled late, dropping their final two matches after spending much of the campaign in the hunt for the top spot.

Toluca followed a similar script, also closing the regular season on a two-game skid, leaving both sides eager for a reset. With momentum up for grabs and a semifinal berth on the line, this clash sets the stage for one team to flip the narrative and make a statement when it matters most.

Inter Miami fell 4-3 to Orlando City in a match that will go down in Major League Soccer history. Lionel Messi had scored one of the goals in the first half, during which the Herons built a three-goal lead. Martin Ojeda was the standout performer of the night with a hat trick for the visitors.

The hosts showed their dominance from the opening minutes of the first half. It took them just three minutes to take the lead, when Telasco Segovia delivered a cross that Micael headed home.

At the 25-minute mark, Guillermo Hoyos’ side doubled their advantage after a combination between Luis Suarez and Messi ended with Segovia finishing the move. Leo himself added the third shortly after with a beautiful long-range strike. Orlando City managed to pull one back before halftime through Martin Ojeda.

Everything changed in the second half. Inter Miami ceded control and opted to exploit the spaces left by their opponents on the counterattack in an attempt to extend their lead, but they lacked precision and were punished by Orlando City’s pressure.

In that context, Ojeda became the most decisive player of the match. The Argentine attacking midfielder took control and led his team brilliantly, scoring two more goals to bring the Lions level at 3-3. In stoppage time, Tyrese Spicer scored the winner.

As a result, Inter Miami let a huge opportunity slip away to win the derby, while also extending their winless run at Nu Stadium to four matches since its opening in early April.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo‘s stories continue to evolve, even as both icons carve out new chapters far from Europe. This weekend brings another landmark moment, as Inter Miami prepares for a crucial derby clash with Orlando City, with history quietly waiting in the background.

The Florida Derby arrives with momentum on one side and urgency on the other. Miami enters the contest unbeaten in recent weeks, while Orlando looks to defy form and disrupt a rival chasing the top of the Eastern Conference. Beneath that competitive tension, however, a deeper narrative is beginning to take shape.

There is more than just three points at stake as Messi enters the pitch once again. The Argentine forward has now reached a historic milestone of 100 appearances for Inter Miami, a moment that reflects both longevity and extraordinary consistency since his arrival in summer 2023.

The numbers already tell a remarkable story. Messi has registered 86 goals and 44 assists in 100 appearances, along with dozens of match-winning moments that have reshaped the club’s identity. His influence extends beyond statistics alone, but the figures underline his dominance. With 130 total goal contributions in just 100 games, he has operated at a level rarely seen in MLS history.

Comparing Messi and Ronaldo at 100 games

The achievement also places Miami alongside other key chapters in his career. Barcelona remains the only other club where he surpassed 100 matches, making this moment another symbol of his lasting legacy.

With the milestone established, the natural comparison with Cristiano Ronaldo begins to emerge. When examining the first 100 games of both legends at their respective clubs, the contrast is striking.

Messi has produced 86 goals and 44 assists (130 goal contributions) in his first 100 Inter Miami matches. In comparison, Ronaldo recorded 89 goals and 19 assists (108 goal contributions) in his first 100 appearances for Al-Nassr.

Legacy beyond the numbers

The difference lies not just in totals, but in style. The Argentine’s numbers reflect a more balanced creative and scoring role, while the Portuguese’s output leans heavily toward finishing, maintaining his reputation as one of the game’s most prolific goal scorers.

While statistics provide a framework for comparison, they only tell part of the story. Messi’s influence at Inter Miami has extended into playmaking, leadership, and the overall rhythm of the team’s attack. Ronaldo, meanwhile, has continued to define himself through goalscoring consistency and physical presence, adapting his game to maintain elite output.

Match Overview

A compelling postseason showdown is on deck as Cruz Azul and Atlas collide in a matchup shaped by contrasting paths to the playoffs. Cruz Azul enter with momentum after a strong regular season that saw them secure third place with 33 points, positioning them as the clear favorite heading into the series.

Meanwhile, Atlas arrive with something to prove after an inconsistent campaign, but the stakes reset in knockout play, where form can shift quickly and underdogs often thrive. With Cruz Azul aiming to validate its status and Atlas hunting a statement upset, this clash promises high drama—don’t miss it.

Neymar’s return to Santos was met with great joy by the fans, who imagined it could lead to another glorious run. However, the team has only been able to focus on avoiding relegation. In an interview with Globoesporte, former Santos and Manchester City player Elano talked about him.

Elano said: “We should take care of Neymar a bit more because he isn’t happy. I speak for myself, I look at him and I know how much I appreciate him. It makes me sad. I know how wonderful this kid is. Fans have to look after him no matter what. He doesn’t deserve to get booed or insulted.”

The physical issues the talented player has endured in recent years have clearly reduced his impact. This has made his contributions on the field less frequent at a struggling Santos, as Neymar has played 39 matches and scored 15 goals.

Neymar has played injured

The explosiveness Neymar once had may be the most obvious thing missing from his game lately. A player who has had to absorb so many hits, especially early in his career, is now feeling the consequences.

What Elano emphasized when speaking about why the fans should be more supportive was Neymar’s willingness to play when his team needed him most, like last year when they were near relegation, even when he was not fully fit.

Elano said: “The relegation that could have happened last year was obvious and, even with an injury, he played at 50% of his potential and was a big help. We can’t criticize him too harshly. I know we live in an unstable era with political problems in the middle, but he’s an asset for Santos.”

Neymar’s criticism impact

The former player currently works in Santos’ youth system, so he has watched everything closely. He said the criticism Neymar receives is affecting him badly, considering the effort he makes.

Elano said: “He’s being criticized too much. I think in every aspect. We know he has huge visibility. Everything becomes a phenomenon, but in the end he’s a human being. Nobody can survive getting so many hits every day. It gets to a point where he becomes depressed.”

Match Overview

Despite a gap in regular-season momentum, Tigres UANL and Chivas Guadalajara enter the Liga MX quarterfinals as legitimate title threats, each bringing a different path—and plenty of pressure—into this high-stakes showdown.

Tigres, long known for their composure and experience in elimination rounds, will look to lean on that pedigree, while Chivas arrive riding a strong campaign that saw them finish just one goal shy of Pumas UNAM for the top spot in the standings.

The manager may be in his final days at Real Madrid. In a nearly unprecedented run without a title at such a massive club, his future looks uncertain. In the press conference before the Espanyol match, Álvaro Arbeloa was asked about rumors linking José Mourinho, the Portuguese coach, as his successor.

Arbeloa said: “I understand every question you ask, but my only answer will always be that the future is tomorrow. Every match at Real Madrid means everything because that is how I understand and live it.”

Real Madrid face the huge task of making up a considerable gap on Barcelona in the La Liga title race. With Espanyol as their challenge on Sunday, Arbeloa also has to keep an eye on the following weekend, when they see Barcelona in El Clásico.

Arbeloa avoids the polemic with Dani Ceballos

The main topic of the week for Real Madrid was a Marca report about a discussion involving Dani Ceballos. The report suggested that the player told the manager he did not want to hear from him again.

Ceballos wasn’t a regular presence in the team before the incident, with very little involvement in the biggest matches. That exchange could be one of several that have been attributed to the manager and some of the players.

Arbeloa said: “I do not start public debates about situations I have with players. The first thing I learned 20 years ago was that what happens in Real Madrid’s dressing room stays in Real Madrid’s dressing room.”

Arbeloa on a potential Franco Mastantuono loan

Among the topics the manager discussed was Franco Mastantuono. The young Argentine midfielder was never able to adapt to Real Madrid in his first years after a 60 million euros move that put too much pressure on him. A loan to get more minutes may be the next step, and he was asked about that possibility.

Arbeloa said: “He is a really young kid who could be playing for the club’s youth teams, but you see his talent and maturity. He does not look 18 years old in the way he speaks and behaves. I think he has a great future. He is a worthy player because of his talent, his ability and his commitment.”

The tension between Cristiano Ronaldo and Merih Demiral spilled far beyond the pitch in a heated Saudi Pro League clash that left both camps talking long after the final whistle. As Al-Nassr celebrated another crucial step toward the title, Al-Ahli was left frustrated, with emotions boiling over dramatically.

The match itself ended in a 2-0 victory for Al-Nassr, a result that tightened its grip on the top of the table and pushed it closer to domestic glory. Ronaldo once again stood at the center of the narrative, reaching 970 career goals and reinforcing his influence in decisive moments.

However, what followed the final whistle quickly overshadowed the result. Demiral, visibly frustrated, confronted opponents and made gestures toward the crowd that intensified an already charged atmosphere.

The defender even paraded his AFC Champions League medal in front of the home supporters, later doubling down on social media with a pointed message. “For the first time, there is a Champions League medal in their stadium,” he wrote, a remark that only fueled the rivalry further.

His frustration had been building throughout the match, particularly over refereeing decisions that he believed had gone against his team. “It looks clear referees help Al-Nassr, they want them to win,” the experienced defender said, making his stance unmistakably clear.

Social media provocation and growing rivalry

Demiral’s comments did not stop there, as he questioned the integrity of officiating in strong terms. “I swear to God, the refereeing is just unbelievable… they are constantly trying to help Al-Nassr win titles,” he added, reflecting the growing tension surrounding the fixture.

These claims echoed previous frustrations from within Al-Ahli, where players and officials had already raised concerns about decisions in recent weeks. The narrative of perceived bias has lingered, and this latest episode pushed it firmly into the spotlight again.

Meanwhile, Al-Nassr’s camp remained focused on the result. The club’s consistent performances and commanding lead in the standings have placed it in a dominant position, regardless of the external noise.

Demiral’s harsh punishment revealed

The fallout from the derby did not take long to arrive, as Saudi soccer authorities issued a series of punishments directed at Demiral. The disciplinary committee handed down multiple sanctions linked to his behavior during and after the match. Thus, Demiral has been hit with four separate penalties, confirming that his actions had crossed disciplinary lines.

The sanctions included a one-match suspension and a total fine of 175,000 riyals ($46,666), broken down across multiple violations. These ranged from media misconduct (100,000 riyals – $26,666) and inciting public opinion to provoking opposing fans (50,000 riyals – $13,333) and causing damage to stadium property (15,000 riyals – $4,000).

Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho have recently found themselves linked in the same narrative, with fresh speculation suggesting a possible reunion at international level. With Portugal potentially entering a new era after the 2026 World Cup, speculation has begun to grow around a reunion that once defined an era at Real Madrid.

Earlier reports have suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo could reunite with Mourinho more than a decade after their time together at Santiago Bernabeu. The possibility centers around the Portugal national team, with current manager Roberto Martinez approaching the end of his contract after the 2026 World Cup.

According to ESPN’s February report, Mourinho is seen as a leading candidate to take over the national team once that transition occurs. The scenario has added weight due to the boss’ long-standing connection with Portuguese soccer and his previously expressed desire to coach at international tournaments.

The 63-year-old has usually openly spoken about his ambition to lead a national team on the biggest stage. In a previous statement, he made his intentions clear about wanting to experience international competition at the highest level. “I want to play a European Championship or a World Cup and unite a country around a team, as I have already done many times with the clubs,” he said, via Corriere Dello Sport.

Mourinho’s response to Portugal speculation

Despite the growing rumors, the current Benfica manager has recently addressed the possibility of taking over a national team role, offering a measured response that reflects his current priorities. While he did not shut the door completely, he made it clear that the timing is not right for such a move.

“It’s not the right time yet to coach a national team,” Mourinho said when asked about the speculation. He expanded on his reasoning with a glimpse into his mindset. “I do think about it, but I also think about my life without club football… I can’t imagine my life without all of that,” he explained, emphasizing his attachment to the rhythm of club management.

Those comments suggest that while the idea of managing Portugal remains appealing, his immediate focus stays with day-to-day coaching responsibilities.

Real Madrid links add another twist

Adding further complexity to the situation are reports linking Mourinho with a return to Real Madrid. The Spanish giant is searching for stability, and his name has emerged as a serious option to lead a new project.

Mourinho has publicly played down those rumors, stating that no direct contact has been made. Still, the interest highlights how his profile continues to command attention at the highest level of the game.

For Portugal, this creates uncertainty. If club opportunities arise, Mourinho may choose to delay any move into international management, even if the role appeals to him in the long run.

What was already a very bad season for Dani Carvajal could get even worse after the latest injury news. This all but rules out the right back from playing again for Real Madrid, which also makes his World Cup participation with Spain look even less likely.

Real Madrid confirmed the injury in an official statement: “After the tests carried out on our player Dani Carvajal by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a fracture of the distal phalanx of the fifth toe on his right foot. Pending evolution.”

This injury likely ends his season, as the expected recovery time is two to four weeks. Even if he could return sooner, he was already a backup in Álvaro Arbeloa’s team. Not being able to get on the field also raises even more doubts about his World Cup participation with Spain.

Carvajal likely played his last match for Real Madrid

The sporting side of this news could be softened by saying he might return next season at full strength to compete for a spot. However, there was a decision made by the club’s higher-ups not to keep Carvajal once his contract expires at the end of June, according to Marca.

His role had already been reduced because of the injuries he has dealt with recently. The torn ACL that ended the previous season also brought more issues than are normally expected when a player recovers from that type of injury.

What is unfortunate about Carvajal’s situation is that he may say goodbye to the fans without being able to be with the team, even though he has worn the captain’s armband for many matches. It feels unfair that a player who scored the winning goal in a Champions League final has to leave this way.

Carvajal’s season with Real Madrid

The numbers show how much his role was reduced with Arbeloa as manager, with reports also saying the two were not in the best relationship. Carvajal has played just 20 matches this season, with no goals, 14 in La Liga, one in the Copa del Rey, and five in the Champions League.

Match Overview

A heated Florida derby takes center stage this MLS weekend, with Orlando City SC looking to climb out of a slow start as they host a red-hot Inter Miami side that has surged to second place in the Eastern Conference with 19 points, trailing only Nashville SC.

Despite sitting near the bottom of the standings with just seven points, Orlando will lean on the intensity of this rivalry to try to flip the script, while Lionel Messi and Miami aim to keep the pressure on the conference leaders and continue their strong run of form.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi continue to shape soccer narratives even as they move deeper into the later stages of their careers, with both Al-Nassr and Inter Miami still heavily influenced by their presence. The latter’s set-piece output has drawn particular attention, prompting comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo’s record in the Saudi Pro League.

The Argentine has now scored eight direct free-kick goals for Inter Miami, a figure that underlines his continued precision from set pieces in MLS. The milestone includes goals in high-pressure matches such as the late strike against Philadelphia Union and decisive contributions during the club’s strong 2024 campaign.

According to Messivsronaldo.app, Messi’s total reflects sustained accuracy since joining the club, while outlets like ESPN and BBC Sport have highlighted several of his most memorable efforts, including a curling free kick against Nashville. One report described a “vintage” strike in a key match, emphasizing how even in North America, he remains a specialist in decisive moments.

BBC Sport noted the quality of one of his set-piece goals, describing it as “vintage” in execution. That level of consistency has made him a constant threat whenever the Herons earn a set-piece opportunity.

Ronaldo’s free-kick record in Saudi Arabia

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, has scored five direct free-kick goals for Al-Nassr, showcasing his continued effectiveness from distance even after moving to the Saudi Pro League. His goals include memorable strikes against Abha, Damac, Al-Fayha , and Al-Tai, with some arriving in dominant team performances, as per Messivsronaldo.app.

One of his standout moments came in April 2024 when he scored two free kicks in a single match against Abha, highlighting his ability to dictate games from set pieces. Earlier efforts included a long-range free kick against Damac and another powerful strike against Al-Feiha in a convincing win.

Ronaldo’s consistency in these moments has been widely documented, with analysts pointing out his continued threat from distance even as his role at Al-Nassr evolves. His technique remains a major weapon whenever the team is awarded a set piece in dangerous areas.

Eternal comparison between two icons

With Messi at eight and Ronaldo at five direct free-kick goals for their current clubs, the comparison naturally becomes part of the broader debate around their late-career output. Both players continue to influence matches through moments that require precision rather than volume.

Messi’s free-kick success has often come in tighter, more controlled game states, while Ronaldo’s goals have frequently arrived in matches where Al-Nassr dominates possession and territory. The difference reflects not only style but also tactical environments at Inter Miami and Al-Nassr. Still, both players maintain elite standards when given opportunities, reinforcing why they remain central figures for their clubs.

Real Madrid have not stopped competing with Álvaro Arbeloa as manager, but rumors about his replacement started a few weeks ago. One candidate who was speculated about was Jürgen Klopp, an idea Oliver Kahn disagreed with on Sky Germany.

Kahn said: “I don’t know if I would do that if I were Klopp. Do Real Madrid and he fit with each other? If we make a deep analysis, he is one of the managers who likes to develop and build. He works with a clear system.”

The former goalkeeper was critical of the players: “Real Madrid are something completely different. They are a group of individuals, a group of superstars that strongly reject being imposed on by any concept.”

Kahn recalls Alonso’s firing

The goalkeeper’s vast experience as a player includes nearly 1,000 matches in his career for Karlsruher SC, Bayern Munich and Germany. He knows that country better than most, so he saw Xabi Alonso’s rise as a manager up close.

His time at Bayer Leverkusen was historic to the point where they became the first undefeated Bundesliga champions in a competition where there is usually a dominant team, which led Kahn to use him as an example for Klopp if Real Madrid tempts him.

Kahn said: “We saw it with Alonso. It is about whether, as a manager, you have respect, can connect with the players, can manage the biggest stars and convince them of the system you are trying to implement.”

Alonso’s numbers with Real Madrid

Alonso’s stint in Madrid was short, largely because he could not get the players to follow his idea. The outcome was clear, as he managed just 34 matches, with 24 victories, 4 draws and 6 losses. Even if that record does not look bad on paper, it was mainly the type of defeats that led the club to end his contract in January of this year.

This Saturday brings another edition of the Florida derby, with Inter Miami under pressure to secure a win at Nu Stadium against Orlando City to remain among the contenders in Major League Soccer. Lionel Messi will be in the starting lineup.

The Herons went through a midseason coaching change, but it did not affect them. Under Guillermo Hoyos, they have put together a strong run of results that has them sitting second in the standings with 19 points, three behind leaders Nashville SC.

However, Inter Miami still have unfinished business: winning for the first time at Nu Stadium. The venue officially opened in early April, and since then they have played three matches there—against Austin FC, New York Red Bulls, and New England Revolution—drawing all of them.

On the other side will be Orlando City, who are currently experiencing a very different reality from their rivals. They did not start the season well and sit 14th in the Eastern Conference, with just two wins in 10 matches.

While they await the arrival of Antoine Griezmann, who will join after finishing the 2025–26 season with Atletico Madrid, the Lions need to improve their performances in MLS, and Saturday’s clash presents an ideal opportunity to begin that turnaround.

Confirmed Inter Miami lineup

For this match, head coach Guillermo Hoyos will be without two key squad members: Sergio Reguilon and Mateo Silvetti are out due to injury. The good news is that Lionel Messi is fully fit.

Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup is: Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcon, Micael, Noah Allen; Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi; Luis Suarez, German Berterame.

Confirmed Orlando City lineup

In recent weeks, Orlando City have alternated wins and losses in MLS. Their last match was a 4-3 victory over New England Revolution, which gives them momentum heading into Saturday. However, the challenge will now be much greater, and head coach Martin Perelman will need to design an effective defensive strategy to contain Lionel Messi.

Orlando City’s confirmed lineup is: Maxime Crepeau; Griffin Dorsey, Iago, Robin Jansson, Adrian Marin; Braian Ojeda, Luis Otavio, Martin Ojeda; Ivan Angulo, Tiago, Justin Ellis.

Match Overview

All eyes will be on this weekend’s Brasileirao slate as Palmeiras look to continue their dominant run atop the standings. With 32 points and momentum firmly on their side, the league leaders have separated themselves as the squad to beat and will aim to deliver another convincing performance to strengthen their hold on first place.

Meanwhile, Santos enter the matchup in a far more urgent situation, sitting 17th and battling to escape the relegation zone, with Neymar expected to play a key role in igniting a much-needed turnaround. With title ambitions colliding against survival desperation, this matchup has all the ingredients of a must-watch battle.

Neymar is focused on reaching peak physical and competitive form to earn a spot on the Brazil squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, this Saturday he will not be part of the Santos team that will face Palmeiras in Serie A.

The news was confirmed after Santos shared on their official social media accounts the list of 24 players selected by head coach Cuca for the derby. Ney is absent, which means he will not even be among the substitutes.

“The number 10 will not be on the field due to the sequence of games and the plan that already foresees his absence in some of them, and also taking into account the synthetic turf at Palmeiras’ stadium,” O Globo reported, in a story that was also picked up by other major outlets such as TyC Sports and DirecTV Sports.

The decision for Neymar not to play carries major significance, considering his importance to the team and what is at stake. Santos are in a delicate situation in Serie A, currently in the relegation zone with just 14 points from 13 matches. Palmeiras, in addition to being their historic rivals, are the current leaders of the standings with a clear advantage over Flamengo.

Neymar prioritizes his physical health

In recent weeks, Neymar achieved something he had not managed in years: he played the full 90 minutes in five consecutive matches, without showing signs of fatigue or injury. To reach those numbers, however, careful planning with the Santos staff was required to help him manage his workload.

That is why the forward was not part of the squad last weekend, when Santos drew 2-2 against Bahia in Serie A. The same will happen this Saturday against Palmeiras, with the goal of prioritizing Tuesday’s Copa Sudamericana match against Recoleta FC in Paraguay.

These decisions, aimed at taking steady steps toward Neymar’s full physical condition, may not be ideal in his attempt to impress Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian coach has made it clear that his plan is to call up Ney for the World Cup only if he is capable of competing at the highest level. Therefore, missing two matches in one week to avoid risking his fitness is not an encouraging sign, considering that the demands at North America 2026 will be extremely high.

Neymar and the synthetic turf

In addition to the congested schedule, another reported reason for Neymar’s absence this Saturday against Palmeiras is the surface at Allianz Parque. On more than one occasion, the 34-year-old forward has expressed his disagreement with the presence of stadiums with synthetic turf, believing they are dangerous for players’ physical health.

“Playing at Allianz is practically impossible for me. Playing on synthetic turf is one of the things that bothers me the most as a player, regardless of my injuries,” Neymar said in August 2025. “The direction Brazilian soccer is taking is concerning. It’s absurd that we have to talk about synthetic turf on our fields.”

In the wake of Christian Pulisic‘s struggles, Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has stepped in to defend the struggling striker ahead of their pivotal match against Sassuolo. The Serie A encounter carries major implications for Milan’s season, while the spotlight intensifies on Pulisic’s form and his role in the team.

The buildup to the meeting with Sassuolo carries weight beyond three points, with the Rossoneri navigating a delicate moment in their campaign. Results have slowed, performances have dipped, and the attacking line has lost its sharpness. Yet, within that uncertainty, Allegri has chosen to stand firmly behind one of his most scrutinized players.

Pulisic’s struggles are impossible to ignore, with the forward enduring a prolonged drought that stretches back months. He has not scored since December 2025 and has managed just one assist in that time, a stark contrast to his earlier impact. “He’s a very sensitive guy; the fact that he doesn’t score affects him more,” Allegri admitted earlier in the week.

“He’s a player who gets into tackles and struggles more; he suffers more from this.” Despite the lack of output, the issue runs deeper than individual form. Pulisic has often been deployed in roles that limit his natural strengths, leaving him searching for rhythm and confidence.

Tactical issues behind the struggles

Milan’s tactical setup has played a major role in shaping Pulisic’s season. The absence of a traditional center-forward has forced him into unfamiliar attacking responsibilities, often alongside Rafael Leao in a system that lacks balance. “I realize he is not entirely suited to this,” Allegri acknowledged. “We were without a center-forward.”

This adjustment has reduced Pulisic’s effectiveness as a creator, pushing him into areas where he struggles to influence games. Milan’s attacking output has declined, with the team scoring multiple goals in only five of their matches in 2026, highlighting a broader issue beyond one player.

What did Allegri say about Pulisic?

Amid all the growing criticism, Allegri has remained unwavering in his support. “Pulisic is an important player for Milan and it’s difficult to find players as good as him,” he insisted in a recent press conference.

He emphasized that individual form should not overshadow long-term value. “You don’t have to look at whether or not the players do well in a certain year, there are some values that don’t change,” he added, reinforcing his belief in the player’s quality.

At the same time, the manager has shifted focus toward collective responsibility. “Right now, you have to put personal goals to one side and work for the team because our final target is too important,” the experienced Italian stated, making it clear that the club’s objectives take priority over individual milestones.

Pulisic’s status for Sassuolo clash comes to light

However, as anticipation builds ahead of the Sassuolo clash, the key decision has now emerged. According to Sky Italia, Pulisic is expected to be benched for the upcoming match, with Allegri preparing changes in the attacking line.

Instead, Christopher Nkunku is likely to start alongside Rafael Leao, signaling a tactical adjustment aimed at reigniting Milan’s attack. While this move may come as a setback for the American, it also offers him a chance to reset and potentially make an impact off the bench.

The possible decision would not diminish Pulisic’s importance, but it would underline the competitive pressure to step up within the squad. With only a handful of games remaining, every selection carries consequences.

The spotlight falls once again on Lamine Yamal as Barcelona prepares for a decisive La Liga clash, yet one crucial detail lingers beneath the surface. The absence of one of the season’s standout performers comes at a time when the club is on the brink of glory, adding intrigue to an already high-stakes encounter.

The match in Pamplona carries enormous weight, with Barcelona edging closer to sealing the league title. Yet the spotlight has shifted toward the young winger’s absence, raising questions about how the team will cope without one of its most influential attacking players.

Hansi Flick and his players arrive at El Sadar knowing that a victory could push them to the verge of clinching La Liga, depending on other results. The Catalan club sits comfortably at the top of the table with a commanding lead of 11 points over Real Madrid, leaving little margin for error for its rival.

Despite the favorable position, the challenge remains significant, as Osasuna has built a reputation for being extremely difficult to beat at home. The host enters the fixture with strong home form and plenty of pride at stake, making the encounter far from straightforward.

Why Lamine Yamal is missing

The mystery surrounding Yamal’s absence becomes clearer in the context of recent events. The 18-year-old forward suffered a hamstring injury during a match against Celta Vigo on April 22, forcing him off the pitch shortly after scoring.

Barcelona later confirmed the setback, stating that he would miss the remainder of the domestic season while following a conservative recovery plan. The club emphasized long-term fitness, particularly with the international calendar approaching.

Yamal himself addressed the situation, sharing his frustration in an emotional message: “This injury leaves me off the field at the time I most wanted to be, and it hurts more than I can explain.” He added, “It hurts not being able to fight with my teammates, not being able to help when the team needs me.”

Blow to Barcelona’s attack with title within reach

The absence of Yamal removes a vital creative outlet for Barcelona. The young winger has been one of the most decisive players this season, contributing goals and assists while stretching defenses with his pace and skill.

Without him, the responsibility shifts to alternatives such as Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, and emerging talents tasked with filling the void. The tactical balance may also change, with a greater emphasis on midfield control and collective attacking movement.

Even with this setback, Barcelona remains firmly in control of the title race. The team has won nine consecutive league matches, demonstrating a level of consistency unmatched by its rivals.

There are multiple scenarios in which the club can secure the championship, including the possibility of doing so before the upcoming El Clasico. Regardless of timing, the trajectory suggests that the Blaugrana’s dominance this season is unlikely to be overturned.

Match Overview

Osasuna enters this late-season clash with the freedom of a team that has already secured its top-flight status and is now playing for a potential spot in European competition. Currently sitting ninth, they have turned their home ground, El Sadar, into a fortress, remaining unbeaten in their last ten league matches there. With minimal pressure and a roaring home crowd behind them, Osasuna has the perfect opportunity to make a statement against the league leaders.

For Barcelona, the stakes could not be higher. Holding an 11-point lead over rivals Real Madrid, a victory in Pamplona would place them on the brink of clinching the La Liga title. Hansi Flick’s squad is riding a dominant nine-game winning streak in the league, powered by the most lethal attack in Spain. The urgency is palpable, as securing the championship early would allow them to shift focus and avoid any late-season drama.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This match presents a classic clash of trajectories. Barcelona has been on a relentless march toward the title, defined by an impeccable home record and an offense that has scored 87 goals. Their season has been one of consistent dominance. In contrast, Osasuna has been the season’s overachiever, exceeding all preseason expectations by staying clear of relegation and making a legitimate challenge for Europe, largely thanks to their formidable form at home.

The tactical battle will be won or lost between Barcelona‘s high-octane attack and Osasuna‘s disciplined home setup. Barcelona averages 2.6 goals per game, but they have shown defensive vulnerabilities on the road, keeping just two clean sheets in their last ten away fixtures. This opens the door for Osasuna, who thrives on creating high-pressure moments and has a proven goal-scorer in Ante Budimir. Expect Barcelona to control possession while Osasuna looks to absorb pressure and strike on the counter.

Motivation is clear-cut for both sides. Barcelona is driven by the singular goal of sealing the La Liga crown. A win here is a critical step, potentially allowing them to be crowned champions this very weekend depending on other results. Osasuna, free from the stress of a relegation battle, is motivated by the chance to upset the champions-elect and continue their dream of qualifying for a European tournament, a feat that would cap off a remarkable season.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, Barcelona has had the upper hand in this fixture, winning four of the last five meetings between the clubs. Their dominance is particularly evident in their home games against Osasuna, where they have consistently secured comfortable victories and clean sheets.

However, recent encounters at El Sadar tell a different story. While Barcelona won their last away match in Pamplona in 2023, their most recent visit before that ended in a stunning 4-2 defeat in late 2024. This result serves as a reminder that Osasuna is more than capable of rising to the occasion on their home turf.

Key statistical trends point to a potentially high-scoring affair. Despite Barcelona keeping four clean sheets in the last five head-to-head games overall, five of their last six away matches against Osasuna have seen both teams score and over 2.5 total goals. Those games have produced an average of 3.67 goals, suggesting that when these teams meet in Pamplona, defensive caution is often thrown to the wind.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Barcelona heads into this crucial match with significant absences, while Osasuna remains relatively at full strength for the season’s final stretch.

For Osasuna, the team is largely intact, with only minor issues sidelining Juan Cruz due to illness and Iker Benito with a knee problem. Their core lineup remains available, allowing them to field a familiar and cohesive unit. Barcelona faces more serious challenges, as star forward Lamine Yamal is out for the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury, and key defender Jules Kounde is serving a suspension for card accumulation. However, the return of Raphinha from injury provides a welcome boost to their attacking options.

Osasuna Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Herrera; Galan, Catena, Boyomo, Rosier; Moncayola, I. Munoz; V. Munoz, Oroz, Garcia; Budimir.
This is Osasuna‘s trusted formation, built around the goal-scoring prowess of Ante Budimir. The midfield pairing of Moncayola and Iker Munoz will be crucial in disrupting Barcelona‘s rhythm, while the attacking midfield trio aims to create chances for their formidable striker.

Barcelona Projected XI (4-2-3-1): J. Garcia; Cancelo, Cubarsi, Martin, E. Garcia; Gavi, Pedri; Fermin, Olmo, Rashford; Torres.
With Kounde suspended, Eric Garcia is expected to step into the backline alongside Pau Cubarsi. Ferran Torres will likely lead the attack, supported by a fluid and creative midfield. The return of Raphinha gives Hansi Flick a powerful weapon to bring off the bench if needed.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Osasuna vs Barcelona match on Fubo. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices running iOS or Android.

In addition to La Liga, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions from around the world. You can stream leagues such as Serie A, Ligue 1, and the Brasileirão, as well as major cup tournaments and international fixtures.

The service is available for a monthly fee of $14.99, which provides access to all live matches, on-demand content, and exclusive studio shows. You can also opt for an annual plan to save on the total cost.

SEE MORE: For the full schedule of games, check out our La Liga TV schedule page.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

Match Overview

The Eredivisie spotlight turns to one of its most heated matchups as Ajax prepares for a pivotal showdown against newly crowned champions PSV. With the title already wrapped up following an impressive season that featured only a handful of setbacks, PSV entes this clash aiming to underline their dominance with another marquee result.

Meanwhile, the pressure is squarely on Ajax, as the Dutch giants remain locked in a battle for second place and a coveted direct ticket to the UEFA Champions League, making this rivalry clash a must-win scenario. With pride, positioning, and momentum all on the line, this edition of Ajax vs. PSV promises fireworks.

Match Overview

The Premier League title race is reaching a fever pitch, and Arsenal finds itself in a must-win situation as it hosts Fulham. With only four games left, the Gunners are clinging to a slim lead over a relentless Manchester City, who hold a crucial game in hand. The pressure is compounded by a high-stakes Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, forcing Mikel Arteta’s squad to balance European ambitions with domestic urgency.

Fulham arrives at the Emirates not merely to play spoiler but with their own European aspirations on the line. Currently sitting 10th, Marco Silva‘s side is just points away from a potential Europa or Conference League spot. Coming off an impressive victory against Aston Villa, the Cottagers are poised to capitalize on any fatigue or distraction from the league leaders, making this a high-stakes clash for both clubs.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This season represents a historic opportunity for Arsenal, who are chasing their first league title in over two decades alongside a potential first-ever Champions League trophy. Their campaign has been built on a rock-solid defense, boasting the best expected goals against (xGA) in the league. However, their attack has recently struggled to convert dominance into clear-cut chances, making every fixture a tense affair.

Fulham, meanwhile, has secured a comfortable top-half position and demonstrated an ability to grind out results, even with limited possession. Their tactical approach against Arsenal will likely be disciplined and defensive, aiming to absorb pressure and hit on the counter-attack. The match will be a classic battle of styles: Arsenal‘s possession-heavy approach against Fulham‘s organized, counter-punching strategy.

The motivations are crystal clear. For Arsenal, anything less than three points could be fatal to their title hopes. They must navigate the physical and mental toll of their two-front battle. For Fulham, this is a chance to make a statement, spoil a rival’s party, and keep their dream of European qualification alive, ensuring they will not be a passive opponent.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

History overwhelmingly favors the home side in this fixture. In one of the most one-sided records in English football history, Arsenal has never lost a home league match against Fulham. Across 32 encounters at home, the Gunners have won 25 and drawn seven, establishing an incredible fortress that the Cottagers have never breached.

Despite this daunting long-term record, recent meetings have been more competitive. While Arsenal is unbeaten in the last three matchups (two wins, one draw), Fulham managed a victory and two draws in the five games prior. The reverse fixture this season was a tight 1-0 win for Arsenal, signaling that Fulham is capable of keeping the game close.

Recent form for both clubs points towards a potentially low-scoring game. Under 2.5 goals has been a feature in five of Arsenal’s last six home matches across all competitions. Similarly, six of Fulham‘s last seven games have also seen two or fewer goals scored, suggesting that goals may be at a premium at the Emirates.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both managers are contending with significant injuries to key players that will impact their game plans.

Arsenal’s formidable defense has been hit hard, with Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber expected to miss out. Midfield creativity is also a concern, as Kai Havertz has been ruled out. However, the Gunners receive a major boost with the anticipated return of Eberechi Eze to the starting lineup, adding a much-needed spark to the attack.

Fulham also has availability issues. Ryan Sessegnon was forced off in their last match and is unavailable, while Kenny Tete and Alex Iwobi remain sidelined. These absences limit Marco Silva’s options, particularly in wide areas and midfield, forcing him to rely on his squad’s depth against the league leaders.

Arsenal Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Raya; Hincapie, Gabriel, Saliba, White; Zubimendi, Rice; Trossard, Eze, Madueke; Gyokeres

This lineup will rely on the midfield pairing of Zubimendi and Rice to control the tempo and shield a depleted defense. The return of Eze is critical, as he will be tasked with creating chances for top scorer Viktor Gyokeres alongside Trossard and Madueke.

Fulham Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Leno; Robinson, Andersen, Bassey, Castagne; Lukic, Berge; Chukwueze, Smith Rowe, Wilson; Jimenez

Fulham is expected to field a compact 4-2-3-1 formation designed to frustrate Arsenal. The defensive midfield duo of Lukic and Berge will be crucial in breaking up play, while the attack will depend on the incisiveness of Harry Wilson and Emile Smith Rowe to launch quick counters in support of striker Raul Jimenez.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Arsenal vs Fulham match on DirecTV Stream. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices running iOS or Android.

In addition to the Premier League, a subscription to DirecTV Stream gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions, including La Liga, Serie A, and Liga MX. It is the ultimate destination for soccer fans in the US.

The most basic service is available for a monthly fee of $69.99, offering comprehensive coverage of world soccer all season long. You can also find bundle deals that include other sports and entertainment channels

SEE MORE: Schedule of Premier League games on US TV and streaming.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

Title races are often decided until the final whistle, but that may not apply very well in this case. Barcelona have not secured the La Liga title yet, but they are 11 points ahead of Real Madrid with five matches left. One possible goal could be matching the 100-point record set by Tito Vilanova’s team, but that is not a priority for Hansi Flick this weekend.

Flick said: “We are focused only on the next match. I’m not very good with numbers, but we obviously want to win every match. Our goal is to play at the best level and learn from our mistakes. I’m satisfied with what I’m seeing.”

Barcelona won La Liga in 2012-13 with 100 points under Vilanova, matching what Real Madrid had done the previous year under José Mourinho. For Flick to join that list, Barcelona would have to win all five matches, with Osasuna in Pamplona on Saturday being the first challenge.

Ante Budimir’s danger

Osasuna have had a very good season, which has put them in ninth place, just outside the European qualification spots. They are highly motivated, as there are many teams within a few points of each other. Their main danger is their top forward.

Even if he is not a huge name for those who do not follow Spanish soccer closely, Ante Budimir looks like one of the most feared players in his position with 16 goals, which Flick praised in the press conference.

Flick said: “We just have this match in mind. We are going to play against a team with a lot of experience, with a great forward like Budimir, a very good team, and a great atmosphere. We must use the spaces and play at the level we had against Getafe.”

Flick thanks the support of the fans

Flick was also thankful for the way the fans have treated him: “It’s an honor for me; people thank me every day. We came here with the goal of winning titles and the atmosphere here is great. We are all one. The feeling is incredible, even when we lose.”

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United was filled with excitement. However, the club could not break away from the usual performances that stopped the trophies from coming. Then manager Erik ten Hag had a lot to do with the forward’s exit to Al-Nassr.

Ten Hag’s assistant during his short time in Manchester was Steve McClaren. His presence was a valuable asset for the team, as he had also spent three seasons in that role under Sir Alex Ferguson when the club won the treble. The experienced manager shared his insight in an interview with The Athletic.

McClaren said: “Erik tried to impose his style and that’s why he had that fight with Ronaldo all the way through. I said to Erik, very early, ‘It’s you or him’. Ronaldo was generally OK. But he didn’t want to do the job that Erik wanted him to do. Or didn’t feel he could do it.”

The former assistant shared more about the plan: “The instructions out of possession were, ‘Get into the middle, as soon as you’re back, you’re the first press’. I used to say to Ronnie, ‘If you want to play, that’s what you’ve got to do’. He’d argue, ‘Ah, nobody wants to press’. I’d say, ‘Well, they’re all young lads, they can press’.”

McClaren differentiates Ferguson from ten Hag

McClaren was clear about what ten Hag’s message was to Ronaldo: “It’s right that 11 players attack, 11 players defend. Not 11 players attack, 10 players defend. So I said, ‘You have to run, it’s simple, Ronnie. If you don’t, you don’t play’. You’ve probably got half the squad going, ‘We think Ronnie’s right’, and half going, ‘We think Erik is right’.”

The leadership stature that Ferguson imposed, and the presence that allowed him to manage talents like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and more, was not at the same level as ten Hag’s, with a clear contrast.

McClaren said: “With Fergie, he was right or you were out. If you weren’t with him and he knew it, you were gone. And that’s the authority, the power that he had developed over years and years.”

Time wasn’t enough for ten Hag

McClaren’s conclusion about whether ten Hag could have turned things around was that the manager was fired before getting much time: “The gaffer, Sir Alex, got time to do it. Erik didn’t get the same time. In a way, I could believe it. But in some respects, I couldn’t, because he won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup.”

This weekend, the La Liga title could be decided if Real Madrid cannot get a victory against Espanyol and Barcelona beat Osasuna in Pamplona. For this very important match, Kylian Mbappé and Thibaut Courtois will not be available, according to Marca.

Mbappé continues a difficult late part of the season with more injuries. After a knee issue that caused problems in the Champions League, he now has a muscle problem in his left hamstring suffered in the draw with Betis last Friday.

The weekend’s outcome may decide whether manager Álvaro Arbeloa could have Mbappé for El Clásico the following Sunday. If Barcelona secures the title, there may not be any rush for the player to feature, given the challenges he has ahead with France.

Courtois nears his return

The situation looks a bit different for the goalkeeper. Courtois left the Champions League round-of-16 match against Manchester City early. That match was played on March 17, putting him close to a return.

A thigh injury that was supposed to be just a precautionary substitution ended up requiring a recovery time of around six weeks. Those projections were correct in the end, as he still cannot be in the lineup at full strength.

Courtois, unlike Mbappé, seems set to be available for the match against Barcelona no matter what. In his absence, Andriy Lunin has been the goalkeeper, with mixed results as he could not keep a clean sheet in seven matches.

Mbappé’s replacement against Espanyol

Injuries have hurt Real Madrid’s chances this season, with almost every player missing time. Mbappé will not suit up on Sunday, which opens a spot for three main candidates, with Rodrygo also unavailable. Youth team forward Gonzalo García looks like the most likely replacement for the Frenchman. Brahim Díaz is another potential substitute.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued status as a global soccer star at 41 is no coincidence. It is largely due to his discipline and work ethic. Former Manchester United teammate Antony reflected on that during a recent interview.

“Once in the sauna he joked with me. He showed me his physique and asked if he looked 23 years old. I was even embarrassed because you see the level of care he takes even at almost 40,” Antony recalled in an interview with Globoesporte. “He’s a role model for everyone.”

Antony and Ronaldo were briefly teammates during the Portuguese star’s second stint in England in the 2022-23 season. The young winger had just arrived from Ajax that summer, while CR7 was in the final months of his time at the club before his turbulent exit, which ultimately led to his move to Al Nassr.

At that time, Ronaldo was nearing 38 years old and, just like now, remained in peak physical condition thanks to his strict training, diet, and recovery routines—something consistently praised by his former teammates. Antony, then just 22, was particularly impressed by the experience.

Antony praises Cristiano Ronaldo

It was not only Cristiano Ronaldo’s work ethic that left a lasting impression on Antony, but also the personal relationship they developed during their time together at Manchester United. “Cristiano Ronaldo is a great person, I learned a lot from him,” the Brazilian said in the same interview.

“He even joked with me once, saying that people think he’s stubborn, but in everyday life he’s very playful,” Antony added. “He talked about life, books, various subjects outside of football. That was good because it helped me disconnect. He would say, ‘Today we’re not going to talk about football.’ And that made us learn other important things.”

Antony does not pick Cristiano Ronaldo as his best-ever teammate

Despite his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, when asked about the best player he has played with, Antony chose another star. “I have played with Neymar, with Cristiano too. There are so many, but for me, Neymar. I had the privilege of playing with him. Neymar for me is a star,” Antony said in an interview shared by ESPN.

He also did not name Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest striker of all time. In that category, Antony pointed to two Brazilian legends. “I like a lot Romario and Ronaldo (Nazario),” said the Real Betis winger.

The early outlines of Milan’s future are beginning to take shape, and Christian Pulisic finds himself under growing scrutiny as Massimiliano Allegri maps out what the club could look like in the 2026-27 season, with attacking uncertainty still lingering. While Milan remains on course for a Champions League spot, questions around consistency in attack continue to dominate internal discussions.

The club’s attack has struggled to deliver, with only one goal scored in the last four matches, highlighting a growing reliance on defensive stability rather than offensive firepower. The situation becomes more striking when viewed in context, as the team’s forwards continue to underperform collectively. Despite having multiple attacking options available, Milan has become increasingly predictable in the final third.

One of the key tactical issues has been the pairing of Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao, which continues to produce inconsistent results. While both are highly influential individually, their partnership has yet to function effectively in Allegri’s current system.

Pulisic’s workload remains heavy, often covering large areas of the pitch, while Leao continues to drift into central spaces without clear attacking coordination between the two. The imbalance has left Milan without a reliable attacking structure.

Forward line that has stalled completely

The Serie A outfit’s broader attacking unit has also failed to produce goals consistently, with all five forward options experiencing significant dry spells. Players such as Christopher Nkunku, Santiago Gimenez, and Niclas Fullkrug have all struggled with fitness, form, or adaptation issues throughout the season.

The struggles up front have been persistent and widespread, affecting every option available to Allegri. The entire attacking group has combined for 2,787 minutes without a goal, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Pulisic has become the symbol of that decline, enduring a long goal drought that stretches back months. “He’s a very sensitive guy; the fact that he’s not scoring affects him even more,” Allegri admitted after the recent Juventus tie, underlining the mental toll of the situation.

Milan’s 2026-27 blueprint under Allegri

Behind the scenes, Allegri is reportedly already working on a possible squad structure for the 2026-27 campaign, and the American star is projected to remain part of the core group in that plan. However, the surrounding attack is expected to undergo significant changes.

Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests Milan could move toward a more balanced system built around midfield control and a more traditional striker presence. The idea is to reduce pressure on individual forwards and create clearer attacking roles. In a projected lineup, Pulisic is still included, highlighting his importance even amid tactical uncertainty.

The club is reportedly targeting reinforcements such as Mario Gila, Leon Goretzka, Javi Guerra, and Alexander Sorloth, indicating a shift toward physicality, balance, and clearer attacking structure.

Where Pulisic fits into Allegri’s long-term vision

Despite recent criticism, Pulisic is still viewed differently compared to other forwards in the squad, particularly when discussions shift toward squad planning beyond the current season. Allegri has acknowledged that tactical structure plays a role in the American’s struggles, especially in formations lacking a traditional striker.

As the Italian tactician explained, “Playing without a true centre-forward, Chris struggles more, but I have to try to balance the team.” This has shaped internal thinking, with the Rossoneri considering how to rebuild the attack in a way that better suits his strengths as a wide or supporting forward.

Al Nassr are on track to win the Saudi Pro League title, holding a comfortable lead in the standings over Al Hilal. Cristiano Ronaldo has been key to that run, yet the league still chose not to recognize him for his recent performances. The situation was different for head coach Jorge Jesus.

This Friday, the Saudi Pro League announced through its official social media accounts the awards for the standout players and coaches of April. Argentine midfielder Valentin Vada received the honor.

“With 6 G/A, massively contributing to Damac’s cause, Valentin Vada is the RSL’s Player of the month,” the Saudi Pro League announced. The decision is somewhat surprising considering the club’s performance this season, as they sit in 15th place and are just above the relegation zone.

During that same period, Cristiano Ronaldo also delivered strong performances, contributing four goals in four matches—all wins for Al Nassr that helped them solidify their position at the top of the standings.

Al Nassr receive other awards

Despite Cristiano Ronaldo missing out, other key Al Nassr figures did receive recognition. “With a 100% win record from matchweeks 25-30, Jorge Jesus is the April Manager of the month,” the Saudi Pro League announced.

In addition, Bento was named Goalkeeper of the Month thanks to his excellent performances in April. He conceded only once across four matches—the 5-2 win over Al Najma. In the other three games, he kept clean sheets and played an important role in the team’s success.

What’s next for Cristiano Ronaldo

May will be a crucial month for Cristiano Ronaldo. Domestically, Al Nassr are close to securing the Saudi Pro League title, holding an eight-point lead over Al Hilal (who have a game in hand) with four matches remaining. In addition, on May 16 they will face Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final.

On top of that, Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez will finalize his squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this month. A preliminary list of 35 to 55 players must be submitted by May 11, and that number must be reduced to 26 by no later than June 1. Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to be included in the roster, barring any unexpected setbacks in the coming weeks.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami enter another Florida Derby carrying momentum, tension, and a quiet sense of history waiting to be unlocked against Orlando City. The club’s unbeaten run has kept it competitive in MLS, but consistency at its new home stadium remains elusive. Not only that, Messi is about to reach a personal milestone that will highlight how rapidly his influence in the league has risen since he arrived in 2023.

Inter Miami’s start at Nu Stadium has been frustrating, with three consecutive home draws leaving fans waiting for a first win at the venue. Despite that, the team remains unbeaten across multiple competitions, showing resilience even when performances lack finishing quality.

The Florida Derby arrives with both clubs in very different competitive states. Inter Miami sits near the top of the Eastern Conference, while Orlando City is struggling near the lower end of the table after a difficult run of results.

Still, derby matches often ignore form, and both sides enter with motivation beyond league standings. The Lions have shown occasional sparks in cup competitions, while the Herons carry an 11-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.

Messi approaches a major club milestone

Beyond the team narrative, attention naturally turns to Lionel Messi, who is set to reach a significant personal milestone in this match, as per Sofascore‘s data. If he features against Orlando City, he will make his 100th appearance for Inter Miami, marking a symbolic moment in his MLS journey.

Since joining in July 2023, the Argentine has delivered consistent numbers, registering 85 goals and 43 assists in 99 matches across all competitions. His influence has already reshaped the club’s identity, both on and off the pitch.

Messi’s strong record vs Orlando City

Orlando City has often struggled to contain Messi, who has built a strong scoring record in this fixture. He has consistently been decisive in derby meetings, scoring eight goals in five matches and often stepping up in decisive moments.

In one of their most memorable recent encounters, the 38-year-old forward scored twice in a comeback win that reinforced his reputation as the key figure in high-pressure moments. His ability to influence matches late has become a defining feature of his MLS spell.

The list of greats in the history of the sport is endless, no matter how far back you go. In this case, Thierry Henry mentioned the French names that impressed him the most when he was a kid, with Michel Platini among them, but he surprisingly selected Marco Van Basten over him.

Henry said: “I followed all the French greats of that time: Jean Tigana, Platini, Alain Giresse. But the one who dazzled me the most was Van Basten. He wasn’t French. But I loved his style.”

In his interview with Marca during an event for an electronics manufacturer, Henry also spoke about the great Champions League semifinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, which he described as a “otherworldly match, beyond any analysis. Pure joy, pure fun, pure total soccer, with managers that encourage it.”

Henry avoids saying who the best player ever is

A discussion that usually comes up in any sport is who the best ever is. This presents a series of challenges, as everything evolved over time and players now have more tools at their disposal than before.

The former striker was part of the group that decided to enjoy what they see, without comparing it with what was done before. Even if he was a huge talent who left a mark on many fans, he did not come up with an answer.

Henry said: “It’s impossible to compare eras because not even the rules are the same. Now we have Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Harry Kane, but everything is overanalyzed, and it’s unfair because there’s more attention to the mistakes than the quality. All the good players should be enjoyed.”

Henry’s match to relive

An interesting question that the Frenchman was asked was which match he would like to relive. His selection was understandable, as the context was huge, with the pressure not allowing him to enjoy it.

Henry said: “The World Cup final in 1998 (France won 3-0 over Brazil). I was only 20 years old, and I was too focused on winning, not on enjoying it. I would love to relive it. To sit and watch it again live for what we were capable of doing.”

The road to the 2026 World Cup is already filled with transformation, and the latest development has placed discipline and conduct firmly under the spotlight. As FIFA president Gianni Infantino pushes for a cleaner and more controlled tournament, new regulations have emerged that could reshape how the national team behaves under pressure.

At first glance, the changes appear to be part of a broader effort to modernize soccer’s rules. Yet behind the scenes, a specific controversy has driven these decisions, creating a ripple effect that now reaches the biggest stage in the sport.

During the recent FIFA Congress in Vancouver, soccer lawmakers from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and FIFA approved a set of sweeping measures. The new rules are designed to prevent on-pitch protests and strengthen control over player behavior during matches.

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of an automatic punishment system. Any player or official who leaves the pitch in protest of a referee’s decision will now receive an immediate red card, removing the need for post-match reviews in such cases.

Infantino made the governing body’s position clear when addressing the issue publicly. “If a player leaves the field without permission, he will receive a red card,” he explained, reinforcing the idea that authority must remain with the referee throughout the match.

The AFCON incident that changed everything

The turning point behind these changes came during the 2025 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations. In a dramatic final between Senegal and Morocco, tensions escalated after a controversial late penalty decision.

The Senegal national team walked off the pitch in protest, halting the match for several minutes before eventually returning. Although the game resumed, the fallout extended far beyond the final whistle.

The situation led to legal disputes and disciplinary reviews, highlighting a growing concern within soccer. FIFA viewed the incident as a warning sign, prompting immediate action to prevent similar scenarios at future tournaments.

How the 2026 World Cup will be affected

With the tournament expanding to 48 national team participants, maintaining order has become a top priority. All teams will be required to follow the new rules strictly, with referees given full authority to enforce immediate sanctions.

The consequences of collective protest are particularly severe. A team that abandons a match could face an automatic forfeit, a decision that underlines FIFA’s commitment to keeping games on track. Infantino emphasized the broader vision behind the changes: “Soccer is played on the pitch”.

Another major rule focuses on how players communicate during heated moments. Soccer authorities will now penalize players who cover their mouths while speaking in confrontational situations, particularly when there is suspicion of abusive or discriminatory language.

The race toward soccer immortality has taken another dramatic turn as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi continue to define modern soccer in very different ways. The former has now reached 157 headed goals in his career while pushing Al-Nassr to the brink of the Saudi Pro League title, and the latter is still offering a contrasting statistical profile that highlights how unique both legends are.

Al-Nassr produced another crucial performance with a 2-0 victory over Al-Ahli, keeping the club at the top of the Saudi Pro League with only four matches left. Ronaldo once again made the difference, opening the scoring with a trademark header before Kingsley Coman sealed the win late on.

The match was tight until the breakthrough, but Ronaldo’s movement and timing changed everything in the second half. The result extended Al-Nassr’s lead over rivals chasing the title, with the club now needing only a small points haul to secure the championship.

The decisive moment came in the 76th minute when Ronaldo met a Joao Felix corner with a perfectly timed header, sending the ball past Edouard Mendy to break the deadlock. It was another reminder of how effective he remains in the air despite his age.

That goal also marked a personal milestone, becoming his 970th career goal across club and international soccer, keeping him on track for the long-discussed 1,000-goal target. His influence remained strong throughout, even as Al-Nassr managed the game in the final stages.

How Ronaldo reached 157 headed goals

That strike also pushed Ronaldo to 157 headed goals in his professional career, a number that stands out even in a career filled with records. His aerial dominance has remained a constant theme from his early years at Manchester United to his time at Real Madrid and Juventus, and now in Saudi Arabia.

The statistics underline how rare his effectiveness is in the air for a forward of his longevity. His ability to time runs and attack crosses has made him one of the most productive headers of all time in elite soccer.

How it compares to Lionel Messi

While Ronaldo’s aerial dominance has long been acknowledged, the comparison with Messi adds another layer to the story. The Argentine, known for his artistry on the ground, offers a very different profile. Thus, Messi has so far scored 31 headed goals in 1,150 appearances, a figure that reflects a completely different playing style rather than a limitation.

As noted in Messivsronaldo.app’s statistical comparisons, Ronaldo’s 157 headers in 1,318 matches far exceed Messi’s numbers, while Ronaldo has also won over 1,000 aerial duels compared to Messi’s 168 in recorded data sets. The contrast simply reflects two soccer identities rather than a direct performance gap.

Why Messi’s aerial output is low

Messi’s game has always been built around close control, dribbling, and finishing on the ground, making aerial scoring a less frequent feature. Standing tall at 5’7″ (170 cm), his physical profile naturally shapes how he contributes inside the box.

Still, his 31 headed goals remain notable given how rarely he is used as an aerial target. It is a reminder that even within a contrasting style, he has still found ways to contribute in every possible scoring category.

There are not many players who play full matches since the number of substitutions allowed was increased. Lionel Messi has always been in that group, except for occasional injuries. One famous episode came at Paris Saint-Germain, when Mauricio Pochettino took him off.

Pochettino said: “My initial intention was to protect him because I was thinking that he had to play in the Champions League, etc. If I do not make a decision, he gets hurt and that has repercussions for his World Cup participation.”

This happened during a Ligue 1 match against Lyon, which Paris Saint-Germain won 2-1. In his interview with former player Gary Neville for Stick to Football, the manager recalled more reactions to that specific substitution.

Leonardo also questioned Pochettino

The Argentine manager also explained a bit more about his intentions when he said that he “didn’t want to demonstrate that I was more brave than other managers, but in that moment, I thought it was the best thing for him”.

Criticism came from everywhere, mainly because the reaction was not the one of an injured player. Messi left the field with just 14 minutes remaining, but even though he missed little time, sporting director Leonardo also let him know it was a mistake to substitute him.

Pochettino said about the reaction from the Brazilian: “After the match, Leonardo told me: ‘Mauri, why? I asked Leo and he didn’t mind.’ He also told me that people there paid for a ticket to watch him play 90 minutes.”

Pochettino’s criticism was immediate

Pochettino recalled during this topic that he found out he could have done something different only when he got home from the stadium. The manager remembered what his wife said immediately after the match: “My wife told me that in Argentina they were destroying me at that time. In France, too.”

Barcelona are on the verge of securing the La Liga title, something that could happen next week in El Clasico against Real Madrid. Raphinha could miss that game, but not due to fitness issues—rather because of a potential suspension.

The Brazilian winger is set to return to action this weekend after a month out with a hamstring injury. He will be included in coach Hansi Flick’s squad to visit Osasuna this Saturday on Matchday 35 of La Liga, but he will need to be cautious.

Raphinha has accumulated four yellow cards this season and is one booking away from suspension. If he receives another yellow in any of the remaining La Liga matches this campaign, he will have to serve a one-game ban.

Considering his long absence, it is unlikely he will be part of the starting lineup this Saturday against Osasuna. However, Flick is expected to give him minutes in the second half to help him regain match fitness ahead of El Clasico against Real Madrid next week—something that also carries risk, as it could expose him to another booking.

Barcelona need Raphinha

While the La Liga title appears all but secured for Barcelona, they know they cannot afford to relax. And even if they clinch the trophy, El Clasico is a challenge significant enough on its own to demand full focus.

That is why having Raphinha back is so important. He has been one of the team’s most decisive attacking players, and his role becomes even more crucial given Lamine Yamal’s absence due to injury.

Raphinha has been out of action since March 26, when he suffered a hamstring injury during Brazil’s friendly match against France over the international break. Since then, he has undergone a recovery process that kept him sidelined for more than a month, missing four La Liga matches and the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal series against Atletico Madrid.

Real Madrid prioritize El Clasico

While Barcelona must take Saturday’s match against Osasuna seriously in their push to secure the La Liga title, Real Madrid know their main objective lies next week in El Clasico. As a result, their squad will be missing several key players this Sunday against Espanyol.

Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa will not risk some important players dealing with fitness issues, prioritizing their readiness for the match against Barcelona. Kylian Mbappe and Thibaut Courtois have been ruled out for Sunday but are expected to be in optimal condition for El Clasico.

Major League Soccer found itself in the spotlight this week following controversial comments from Marc Dos Santos. The Los Angeles FC head coach expressed frustration with certain decisions, arguing there is not enough support for league teams to succeed at the continental level.

“The schedule is a scandal. It’s a scandal,” Dos Santos said this week, referring to LAFC’s domestic fixture list, which has put them in a difficult position while competing in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Those complaints stem from the congested schedule the California club is currently facing. They defeated Toluca 2-1 in the first leg of the tournament’s semifinals last Wednesday. Before playing the decisive match in Mexico next week, LAFC must now travel to face San Diego FC in MLS action this Saturday.

“I don’t understand, who is the guy in the office that says, yeah, this is a good idea to have them play in San Diego. They don’t want us in the final? Like MLS has to help MLS teams,” the coach added.

In that context, Dos Santos even joked about his team’s upcoming league match: “Mikey Varas, head coach of San Diego. If you are listening. Mikey, don’t worry, there will be rotation because we have to give everyone rest and we have to be ready for Toluca.”

Dos Santos compares MLS to other leagues

Marc Dos Santos’ request is for MLS to take into account the needs of clubs competing at the continental level and provide some flexibility when scheduling domestic matches—something that does happen in other leagues around the world.

“I see it in South America when Palmeiras, Flamengo arrive in the quarterfinals, semifinal, they get help. They change the game. They put another in the schedule,” the coach explained. “PSG, many of their games in France have been moved.”

By contrast, Dos Santos pointed to LAFC’s packed schedule. “Saturday we have to go to San Diego and you have to go there to win. And then we have to go at home against Houston, then St. Louis, then Nashville,” he said. “We’ve been playing for 10 weeks, Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday, and sometimes Saturday at 1 p.m., 3 p.m. Guys, who is the genius in the meeting that says, ‘I have a good idea’? I wanna meet that guy.“

What’s next for LAFC?

After visiting San Diego FC in MLS play this Saturday, LAFC will travel to Mexico next week for the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals against Toluca, looking to defend their 2-1 advantage from the first meeting. They will then return to the United States to host Houston Dynamo on Sunday, May 10.

In addition to LAFC, the other MLS club still alive in continental competition is Nashville SC. They are in the other semifinal against Tigres UANL. In the first leg at Geodis Park, the Mexican side earned a 1-0 win and will now defend that advantage at home next Tuesday.

Ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season with Barcelona, Lamine Yamal is now focused on fully recovering from a muscle injury in order to arrive in top condition for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain. Head coach Hansi Flick addressed the situation.

“I think we’ll see him at the World Cup. He has more time to recover calmly and everything is going well. That’s what he wants, and he’ll be there,” Flick said Friday during a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s La Liga match against Osasuna on Saturday.

Yamal suffered a hamstring injury in his left leg on April 22, after scoring a penalty in Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Celta Vigo. Medical tests indicated that the winger will not return to action before the end of the club season, meaning his priority is now to be part of Spain’s squad for North America 2026.

With that in mind, Barcelona and Spain are working together to support his recovery. “We’re in contact with the Federation’s medical staff, as well as our own. I’m in contact with Lamine, and he’s progressing well, which is the most important thing,” Flick said.

Luis De La Fuente’s view

This week, Luis De La Fuente was asked about Lamine Yamal’s availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup during a medical symposium at the CEMTRO clinic in Madrid. While he avoided addressing the specific case directly, he offered an encouraging response.

The head coach said his priority is “to arrive at the decisive stage with the best possible team,” placing particular emphasis on the latter rounds of the tournament. “There are players who can come in less than fully fit and still make a difference in the knockout stages,” he added.

Those comments are key to understanding Yamal’s situation. Amid speculation that he might not be ready for the first two matches of the World Cup, the winger does not appear to be at risk of missing Spain’s roster, considering De La Fuente is comfortable having him reach full fitness later in the tournament.

Lamine Yamal’s timeline ahead of the World Cup

With the 2026 World Cup just 42 days away, the first key deadline for Spain regarding Lamine Yamal is May 11. On that date, each national team must submit to FIFA a preliminary list of between 35 and 55 players under consideration for the tournament.

Then, once club competitions conclude, that list must be trimmed down to 26 players by no later than June 1. Spain will open their World Cup campaign on June 15 against Cape Verde, but their path in the knockout stages would not begin until at least June 30—giving Lamine Yamal more than enough time to recover.

With Christian Pulisic watching closely and Luka Modric ruled out of the season through injury, the spotlight quickly shifted from the pitch to a looming decision that could reshape Milan’s immediate future. At 40 years old, Modric continues to perform at an elite level despite recent injury concerns. His next move could affect not only the club’s midfield balance but also the role of teammates such as Pulisic, who usually thrives alongside experienced leaders in the squad.

The Croatian star recently suffered a fractured cheekbone during Milan’s 0-0 draw with Juventus after a collision with Manuel Locatelli. The injury has ruled him out for the final stretch of the Serie A season and sparked fresh speculation about whether he would continue playing.

For many players, such a setback at this stage of their career might trigger retirement plans. Yet Modric has shown throughout his career that he rarely follows the expected script.

Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests the veteran midfielder remains determined to return stronger and finish on his own terms. That resilience has been one of the defining traits of his long and decorated career.

Modric’s reported decision becomes clear

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport’s report, Luka Modric is expected to extend his Milan contract by activating a one-year clause rather than retire because of the injury setback. That means the Croatian legend could remain at San Siro through the 2026-27 season.

The extension is said to depend largely on Modric’s approval, with the Rossoneri unwilling to proceed without his blessing. Milan views him as more than a player, seeing him as a leader whose influence reaches every corner of the squad.

A formal announcement may not come immediately, especially with the 2026 World Cup still ahead. However, the direction of travel appears increasingly obvious.

Why Milan still wants him

Modric’s first season in Italy has reportedly exceeded expectations. He started 32 of Milan’s 34 Serie A matches and logged 2,788 league minutes, more than he managed in any of his final five seasons at Real Madrid.

Those numbers underline how valuable he has remained, even in his forties. Rather than using him sparingly, the Rossoneri have leaned on him as a central figure in midfield.

His ability to control the tempo, break pressure, and organize possession has given the team balance. Younger teammates, including Christian Pulisic, have benefited from playing beside one of the game’s smartest midfielders–especially in the first part of the season.

Why Champions League qualification matters

One key factor in the Croatian’s thinking is believed to be Champions League action. Milan is pushing for qualification, and the chance to compete again in Europe’s top tournament remains a strong motivator.

“I’m confident Luka Modric will stay at Milan next season,” sporting director Igli Tare reportedly said. That confidence reflects how strongly the club feels about keeping him. Remaining at Milan would also give Modric one final campaign at a historic club in a historic stadium. Few players get to choose such a stage for the closing act of their career.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just 40 days away, one of the tournament’s most discussed questions has now received a clear answer from FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Speaking during the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Infantino addressed growing speculation surrounding Iran’s place in the competition and its scheduled matches on American soil.

With the tournament set to span three countries, the logistical complexity has become part of the narrative. Every national team must navigate travel, scheduling, and coordination across borders, making this edition unlike any before. Within that context, clarity from FIFA has been crucial as the countdown continues.

This year’s edition of the FIFA World Cup is already shaping up to redefine the global game. The competition will feature an expanded 48-team format, bringing more nations into the spotlight and increasing the number of matches across North America.

Co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament demands unprecedented coordination. Teams, officials, and fans will move between venues across all three countries, creating a unique World Cup experience that stretches beyond a single host nation.

What did Infantino say about Iran?

Infantino used his address to remove uncertainty and confirm that Iran will officially participate in the 2026 World Cup and play its matches in the United States as scheduled. His remarks signaled FIFA’s determination to keep the competition on its planned course while ensuring that all qualified national team members remain part of the event.

“Let me start at the outset. Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course Iran will play in the United States of America,” he said. “And the reason for that is very simple: we have to unite. It is my responsibility, our responsibility.”

The statement effectively removed any lingering uncertainty. It reinforced FIFA’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the tournament structure, regardless of external pressures.

The governing body had previously rejected requests to alter match locations. The schedule remains unchanged, ensuring that every qualified national team competes under the same framework established for the tournament.

Iran’s Group Stage schedule takes shape

Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, setting up a competitive path in the early stages of the tournament. Its campaign is scheduled to begin in Los Angeles, where it will face New Zealand before taking on Belgium at the same venue. The group stage will conclude in Seattle against Egypt, offering a mix of styles and challenges for the national team.

The expanded 48-team format means more matches, more host venues, and a longer competition than previous editions. FIFA believes the 2026 event can set new records for attendance, global reach, and commercial success.

Since Real Madrid were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Bayern Munich, speculation about the club’s next head coach has flooded the outlets and social media. Jose Mourinho has been mentioned as one of the leading candidates for the job, and he has now addressed the situation.

“No, nobody from Real Madrid has spoken to me, I can guarantee that,” Mourinho said Friday during a press conference ahead of Benfica’s Primeira Liga match against Famalicao. “Nothing from Real Madrid.”

The 63-year-old coach acknowledged that these situations are inevitable and made it clear he is not disturbed by the rumors. “I’ve been in soccer for too many years, like you in journalism, and we’re used to these things,” he said in response to a reporter’s persistence. “I can’t say anything more. I already told your colleague that, regarding Real Madrid, nothing.”

Mourinho has been identified by numerous European outlets as the leading candidate to take over at Real Madrid, potentially replacing Alvaro Arbeloa, whose future at the Spanish club appears all but decided after failing to win the UEFA Champions League, Copa del Rey, and—almost certainly—La Liga, where Barcelona are on the verge of securing the title.

Mourinho focused on Benfica

Speculation about Jose Mourinho’s future and a possible return to Real Madrid is shaped by one undeniable reality: he is currently under contract with another club. “I have one year left on my contract with Benfica, and that’s it,” the coach reminded reporters during the same press conference.

“I focus on giving my best, more for the club and the players than for myself. Now it’s Famalicao, then Sporting Braga, then Estoril, and after that I’ll keep working a bit more—only then will the holidays come,” Mourinho added, showing he remains focused on Benfica’s upcoming challenges.

Real Madrid’s potential coaching candidates

While Jose Mourinho has been at the center of speculation in recent days, other managers have also been linked with Real Madrid. El Partidazo de COPE reported last week that Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is in contention for the role following the 2026 World Cup.

In a similar situation is Didier Deschamps, who will step down as France head coach after 14 years once the FIFA tournament in North America concludes. In his case, his strong relationship with several Real Madrid French players, such as Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, could be a key factor.

Timo Werner has become a vital piece for a San Jose Earthquakes side currently dominating the 2026 MLS season, with the German star claiming his first Player of the Month award just three months after joining. With such an immediate impact, Werner has managed to establish himself as a dominant force on the pitch even faster than Lionel Messi did upon joining Inter Miami.

After logging just 13 minutes across three Bundesliga matches for RB Leipzig in the first half of the 2025-26 season, Werner sought a move away from Germany during the winter transfer window. On January 29th, he was officially announced as the newest member of the SJ Earthquakes, taking one of the club’s Designated Player spots.

While his league debut started slowly, tallying 200 minutes in his first four appearances and missing three others, April proved to be his breakthrough. With a league-high seven goal contributions (four goals and three assists) in April, Werner was voted the MLS Player of the Month.

The Earthquakes enjoyed a formidable run in April, pulling off five consecutive wins while outscoring opponents 16-5. The German star returned from injury against Los Angeles FC with a goal and an assist in a 4-1 win, continued his streak against Austin FC, and finally netted a brace with an assist to spark a 3-2 comeback road victory over St. Louis City.

Just three months since his January arrival, Werner has already etched his name into the MLS history books. By winning the Player of the Month award for April, he became only the second German player to earn the honor, joining Nashville SC’s Hany Mukhtar, who has won the award twice.

How long did it take Messi to win his first MLS POTM?

Lionel Messi currently sits tied for 5th all-time with five MLS Player of the Month awards, level with Luciano Acosta and trailing only legend Chris Wondolowski, who holds the record with seven. However, in terms of immediate impact from his debut, Werner has actually outpaced the Inter Miami ace.

Following the expiration of his PSG contract, Messi joined Inter Miami on July 15, 2023, with more than half of the season already completed. The Argentine made his MLS debut against the New York Red Bulls on August 26, but he was limited to just five more appearances that campaign due to recurring injuries.

After regaining full fitness and settling in with Inter Miami, Messi’s first MLS Player of the Month award arrived in April 2024. During that month, he recorded a staggering six goals and four assists in just four matches. While Messi claimed his first award in his fifth month of active league competition (accounting for the unified Feb/March window), Werner secured his in just his second.

Manchester United look recovered for the first time in many years. The arrival of Michael Carrick after Rubén Amorim’s firing gave the team a breath of fresh air. This resurgence affected every player, but none benefited more than Kobbie Mainoo.

The club rewarded his improvement with a huge salary boost in a new contract. Mainoo extended his deal for five more years, increasing his salary from 25,000 pounds per week (34,000 dollars) to 120,000 pounds (170,000 dollars), according to The Guardian.

Mainoo was nearing the end of his contract, which had a June 2027 expiration date. Manchester United extended that to 2031 to make sure the midfielder remains with the club. This was expected given the importance he has to the team when he’s on the field.

Mainoo’s words after the news

The first few words from the talented player were to tell the fans how excited he is about staying in Manchester for years to come. Mainoo said: “Manchester United has always been my home – this special club means everything to my family.”

This wasn’t the only thought from a player who had an impressive turnaround, going from being left out by Amorim, who wanted him to leave on loan to get minutes, to becoming a fan favorite coming through the club’s youth system.

Mainoo said: “I have the privilege of living my dream every single day, with the same relentless desire to succeed here as when I joined my first training session at the age of six. We can all feel the momentum building inside the club. I am determined to step up and play my role in helping Manchester United to regularly fight for major trophies.”

Mainoo’s area to improve

His role has changed completely since Amorim’s firing. Mainoo has become a very important piece of the midfield at just 21 years old with the quality he shows. One area where he must improve may be scoring more often, as he has yet to score this season in 26 matches.

Lamine Yamal‘s injury has set off alarms, especially within the Spain national team, which must remain cautious in its approach to his recovery ahead of the 2026 World Cup. To ensure he reaches 100% fitness, reports suggest the star could miss the first two games for La Roja, with FC Barcelona set to monitor the 18-year-old throughout the tournament in North America.

Reports have surfaced revealing a meeting between Barcelona representatives and Spanish Federation physiotherapists to establish a proper recovery plan for Yamal. However, the aspirations of the national team and the health of the youngster must not be at odds, at least from Barcelona’s perspective.

According to Diario Sport, FC Barcelona see as a good solution for Lamine Yamal to miss both the first and the second games of the World Cup against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. This alternative is seen in order for the winger to be completely recovered from his hamstring injury and avoid any setback.

As reported by the Spanish outlet, the plan suggested by Barcelona staff is for Yamal to be 100% ready for the third and final group stage game against Uruguay. That match, which is expected to decide who wins the group, is scheduled for June 27th, a date that aligns with his six-to-seven-week recovery timeline.

Currently ranked 2nd in the FIFA Rankings, Spain enters the 2026 World Cup as a top candidate. However, Yamal’s fitness has become a growing concern for La Roja, with coach Luis de la Fuente commenting on the situation and expressing hope that Yamal will be fit to lead the push into the knockout stage.

Barcelona to address Yamal’s fitness during World Cup

Yamal’s hamstring injury has effectively ended his season with FC Barcelona, meaning he will miss El Clasico and the remainder of the La Liga campaign, where the Blaugrana are expected to lift the trophy with an 11-point lead over Real Madrid. Still, the club is determined to prevent the injury from having long-term consequences and will closely monitor his condition during the World Cup.

As reported by Diario AS, Fernando Galan, an external physiotherapist working for Barcelona, will be in charge of supervising Lamine Yamal for both club and with Spain national team. His role will gain more relevance during the World Cup, as he has been assigned to send daily reports to club authorities regarding Yamal’s progress.

Galan will be responsible for Yamal’s health and ensuring he returns to the pitch in the best possible condition. Given the nature of a hamstring injury and Yamal’s playing style, which relies on explosiveness and constant changes of direction, a setback is a major fear. Using Raphinha’s recent history as a precedent, a personalized program will be implemented as soon as he is recovered.

Mauricio Pochettino’s nearly two years leading the USMNT will be put to the test in less than 50 days when the 2026 World Cup commences in North America. In the process of establishing his philosophy, Pochettino identified “friendly games” as one of the main challenges ahead of the competition.

Set to host the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, the USMNT had the advantage of skipping the World Cup qualifiers. However, having their spot already secured seemed to be an issue for Pochettino in terms of demanding more from his players.

Speaking on The Overlap YouTube channel, Pochettino was asked by Roy Keane if he had concerns over the lack of jeopardy since the team had already qualified: “When we (Pochettino & staff) accept the challenge to go to America, we knew that it was going to be a problem how to approach the games. Because we were already qualified.“

The coach then explained a shift made during his time with the USMNT regarding the approach toward friendly games. “I avoid to say to the players, and to my staff, and the media in America to say friendly game. I say not official game. A friendly game is when you play with your friends. Non-official game is still not official, but it’s competitive. And sometimes they make that mistake: ‘This is a friendly game. I don’t need to take a risk.’ You need to create that habit,” he added.

Apart from the CONCACAF Nations League and the Gold Cup, Pochettino’s tenure has featured more friendly games (14) than official ones (10) over his 24 games in charge. That number is set to grow in the friendlies prior to the World Cup, with one against Senegal (May 31st) and another yet to be confirmed.

This change in terminology during the last international window was intended to change his players’ perception. “You don’t compete for a year and a half, and then you go to the World Cup to compete. It’s not like this, and we are fighting to change that mindset,” Pochettino added.

Pochettino still convinced of USMNT World Cup chances

Pochettino surprised fans when addressing the USMNT as potential World Cup winners in 2026. During the draw gala, he admitted to U.S. President Donald Trump that he sees the team winning the tournament, and he is far from taking that back.

When asked by Gary Neville if the goal is to reach the quarterfinals, he doubled down on winning the competition: “Why not? Why not? It’s all about to believe. Look at Morocco in Qatar, no one believed and they arrived to the semifinals. Or South Korea in Japan/Korea 2002, another semifinal. I think there’s plenty of examples. If you put a limit and the message is to arrive to quarterfinals… You don’t go through the group stage.“

Beyond citing World Cup history, he addressed Tottenham’s heroics in reaching the Champions League final against Ajax. “Everything is possible in football, and because I really believe it… Look what happened in 2019 in Amsterdam. It’s because the standard, the habit, and the mentality was to believe until the end. We believed and we got the result in the end,” he added.

The dispute between Javier Tebas and Spain’s biggest clubs has been going on for years. Barcelona and Real Madrid’s popularity makes it very appealing to see them play in countries outside of Europe, which could happen if the executive succeeds in his plan.

Tebas said: “We are going to continue trying. Many other sports came to Spain; we want to do something similar to them. FIFA is establishing a rulebook to play one match from each league abroad. It would be very good for the brand.”

These comments came during a public event organized by the Universidad de Navarra. In his speech, he also mentioned the United States, Saudi Arabia and Casablanca as potential locations La Liga could choose for this.

Tebas remarks on Spanish clubs

Logically, the La Liga president gets very enthusiastic when describing the competition he leads. Even if the titles are mostly dominated by two clubs, with Atletico Madrid occasionally challenging, he spoke highly about the continental matches.

For Tebas, what puts Spanish clubs ahead of most is their participation against teams from other countries in continental competitions. In this regard, he highlighted the teams that are representing the league, each being in a semifinal.

Tebas said: “We had very bad luck with the teams that were eliminated in the quarterfinals, but those who are still alive (Atletico Madrid in the Champions League against Arsenal and Rayo Vallecano in the UEFA Conference League against Strasbourg) have good possibilities. In 10 years, La Liga has won many titles.”

A failed attempt

The main precedent for this idea came last year. Barcelona was scheduled to play against Villarreal in Miami in December. However, the backlash from players and fans was so significant that they had to reverse the decision.

This decision was mainly driven by Real Madrid, who complained to FIFA that it could affect the fairness of La Liga by giving up a home match to a rival in the title race. In October, the match was canceled, which shows that Tebas may not easily succeed in making teams travel outside of Spain.

The decision to be loaned to Lyon from Real Madrid changed the course of the season for Endrick. From being in a team with many stars to a club where he could show his talent. Even if he couldn’t play much, the forward mentioned Jude Bellingham as a very important teammate.

Endrick said: “Bellingham was important to me. He made me feel welcome. I didn’t speak English very well, but he spoke to me, tried to speak a bit of Spanish, was by my side and gave me advice. His friendship was important to me at the beginning of my time at Real Madrid. That really had an impact on me. I had a certain impression of him, but he was completely different.”

Bellingham has been a huge player for Real Madrid since he was signed at 19 years old. His experience as the focus of attention, like it was at Borussia Dortmund, was a factor in giving him the calmness necessary to adapt to such a gigantic club. This duo couldn’t be a factor as a tandem, but it could be decisive in the near future.

Luka Modric surprised Endrick the most

The stint at Real Madrid was very short. Endrick was signed from Palmeiras before moving to Spain in 2024 when he was 18. He has totaled just 40 matches with that jersey, but it was enough to get to know his teammates.

There was one player who caught Endrick’s attention for many reasons: Luka Modric. Even if the Croatian was in his final season with the club, as he was not very young, his talent made an impression on him.

Endrick said: “Modric was the player who most impressed me at Real Madrid. He’s a guy who taught me a lot in my first year. Not just in training, but also in matches. It was a football masterclass. He was 40 years old and very strong. He trained every day. When he wasn’t playing, he’d go to the club and train, doing his own extra training.”

Endrick on his injury

The forward wasn’t very important at Real Madrid not because of his ability. It was a hamstring injury that made him miss too many matches, participating in just three in the first six months of the season before his loan to Lyon. This was very detrimental to his confidence.

Endrick said: “I was afraid. I cried several times. That’s something you do in private. I didn’t know how to deal with my injury, what to expect. You don’t know if you’ll have a relapse, if you’ll keep your strength, if you’ll come back weaker. That affects you a lot. You get scared of the future. But I knew I had to keep going.”

Mauricio Pochettino established himself as one of the top managers in the world during his time in England. That success ultimately led to his appointment as USMNT head coach ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but he has now acknowledged that he sees a potential return to the Premier League in his future.

During a recent interview on The Overlap’s Stick to Football podcast, Pochettino reflected on the current state of Tottenham Hotspur—a club he managed from 2014 to 2019—and admitted his desire to return. “One day, yes, because I really like England,” he said.

“I think my profile – my human profile and my coaching profile – match very well with the Premier League,” added the 54-year-old Argentine, who has spent more than half of his managerial career in England.

At Tottenham, Pochettino enjoyed his most successful spell, leading the team to a runner-up finish in the EFL Cup in 2015 and, most notably, to the 2018-19 UEFA Champions League final, where they lost to Liverpool. During those five and a half years, he also helped elevate players such as Harry Kane, Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Christian Eriksen, and Son Heung-min to stardom.

Before that, Poch managed Southampton, where results were less consistent but his style of play helped propel him into the European elite. His most recent Premier League experience came with Chelsea, whom he led during the 2023-24 season, posting a 50.98% win rate.

Pochettino laments Tottenham’s current struggles

After spending more than five years at Tottenham, Mauricio Pochettino has a strong connection with the club. With Spurs now going through a difficult period and facing a serious risk of relegation to the Championship, the coach shared his thoughts.

“It’s really sad because I know how the people are suffering there, inside the club and also the fans. It’s difficult to accept,” he explained. “I really love Tottenham. It’s going to be a part of my life, an important part of my life as a coach, my personal life too.”

The challenge ahead for Pochettino

Beyond his future ambitions of returning to the Premier League, Mauricio Pochettino faces what may be the biggest challenge of his career. This summer, he will manage at a World Cup for the first time, and he will do so as head coach of the tournament’s main host nation.

The USMNT’s goal this year is to improve on previous World Cup performances. After reaching the quarterfinals in South Korea–Japan 2002, they have not advanced beyond the Round of 16, and have also endured setbacks such as a group-stage exit in Brazil 2014 and failure to qualify for Russia 2018.

The USMNT will open their 2026 World Cup campaign on June 12 against Paraguay in Matchday 1 of Group D at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. One week later, they will face Australia in Seattle before returning to California on June 25 to take on Turkey.

Lionel Messi puts all his passion into the sport when he’s on the field. However, he has also found a way to share his knowledge with players at a lower level with the recent purchase of Unió Esportiva Cornellà.

With the recent news of his involvement in the smaller club, his first message to the team did not take too long to come. The manager gathered the players in a room to play the video sent by Messi to support them.

Messi said: “I just want to introduce myself and salute you. We are here to grow, to help you with whatever you need. We are very excited about this new project. I’m following and supporting you every weekend.”

Details about UE Cornellà

The bond between Messi and Barcelona can’t be denied. This was just another step in his contribution to the city in which he spent most of his years. UE Cornellà are a semi-professional club from Catalonia that is now trying to take a leap.

This club is not near the sphere that most people are used to in Spain, but it has a long tradition of being a formative place for local talents. There are some really meaningful examples like Jordi Alba, David Raya, Gerard Martín or Keita Baldé.

UE Cornellà confirmed the purchase earlier this month, while Fabrizio Romano reported that Messi made the move for the entirety of the fifth-division club. With this investment, the lower Spanish league should have a motivation when they see this club.

Another purchase was rumored

There were some rumors in Spain around Messi’s potential purchase of another club before he chose UE Cornellà. This was also a small club called Terrassa FC, which denied the information.

The statement said: “We categorically deny the truthfulness of its content. We have never been in contact with Messi, nor with any intermediary claiming to act on his behalf. We love this club and would never allow our pride to prevent its growth under new ownership.”

In one month, Luis De La Fuente will have to confirm the final 26-man roster that will represent Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That means any last-minute injury could alter his plans—something highlighted by the recent scare involving Lamine Yamal.

De La Fuente spoke during a medical symposium at the CEMTRO clinic in Madrid this week. “Will Lamine be there?” was one of the questions posed to the coach regarding the availability of the Barcelona winger for Spain’s World Cup squad.

“In a call-up, we consider every scenario—whether you’re winning, losing, or if the opponent goes down to 10 men,” De La Fuente said, according to Marca. “There are players who can give you 20 minutes, and that has enormous value. Some players may not be able to give you 50 or 60 minutes, but they can deliver 20 very good ones—and that can make the difference.”

In that sense, the coach avoided addressing Yamal’s specific case but made it clear that his presence could still be crucial even if he is not at full fitness at the start of the World Cup. “Our priority is to arrive at the decisive stage with the best possible team,” he explained.

De La Fuente has experience managing these situations

In nearly four years as Spain coach, Luis De La Fuente has faced situations that forced him to make difficult decisions, and that experience is now shaping his approach ahead of North America 2026.

To explain his thinking regarding players who may not be at 100 percent for the World Cup, the coach cited an example from Euro 2024, where Spain were crowned champions. “Olmo arrived injured—we were close to leaving him out—but he went on to be decisive at the Euro. There are players who can come in less than fully fit and still make a difference in the knockout stages. Olmo was decisive from the quarterfinals onward,” De La Fuente said, referring to Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo.

Based on those comments, it can be inferred that Lamine Yamal’s place at the World Cup could be secure even if he does not fully recover before the tournament begins. Spain’s group-stage path includes matches against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, but the coach’s priority appears to be the knockout rounds that follow.

De La Fuente points to the schedule

In the same conversation, Luis De La Fuente shared his views on the growing number of injuries among elite players. “The pace is so intense, with matches every three or four days, that injuries are inevitable,” said the Spain coach. “It’s one thing to recover, and another to return to peak performance. The biggest risk when a player comes back is suffering another injury.”

Kingsley Coman has been one of Al Nassr‘s standout acquisitions of the 2025-26 season, settling quickly into Cristiano Ronaldo‘s attacking unit. The French winger is currently enjoying the finest goalscoring campaign of his career, setting new personal benchmarks in Saudi Arabia.

After a disappointing previous season, the Al Nassr board moved decisively in the summer, bringing in head coach Jorge Jesus and several high-profile additions to overhaul the squad. Coman was among the most significant of those signings, arriving from Bayern Munich for a fee of €30 million after spending his entire career in Europe. Even while playing a supporting role alongside Ronaldo in the attack, he has consistently delivered in crucial moments, particularly in front of goal.

His goal against Al Ahli on Wednesday, which sealed a 2-0 victory, brought Coman’s tally to 15 goals across all competitions this season for Al Nassr in 37 appearances. What makes that figure all the more remarkable is that it represents the most goals the French winger has ever scored in a single season at any club in his career.

His previous personal best had come in the 2018-19 season with Bayern Munich, where he managed 10 goals and seven assists in 30 games. That campaign was also affected by a syndesmosis ligament tear that sidelined him for 19 matches, limiting what might have otherwise been an even more productive year.

Since arriving in Riyadh, however, Coman has wasted no time in establishing himself as a key figure. With 15 goals and 11 assists across 37 appearances, totaling 26 direct goal contributions, he sits as the third-highest scorer and creator in the squad, reflecting a role that extends well beyond that of a pure wide attacker.

Al Nassr and a more democratic goalscoring record

Throughout the 2025-26 campaign, Al Nassr have asserted themselves as one of the most dominant sides not only in Saudi Arabia but across the Asian continent, sitting atop the Saudi Pro League and reaching the AFC Champions League Two final. Their goalscoring, however, tells a story of collective effort rather than individual dominance.

Across the SPL and the AFC Champions League Two, Jorge Jesus’ side have found the net 124 times. Cristiano Ronaldo accounts for 26 of those, representing 21 percent of the total. The remainder has been spread across a potent attacking unit, with Joao Felix contributing 20 goals, Coman 15 and Sadio Mane 12, meaning that just four players are responsible for 59 percent of all goals scored across both competitions.

By comparison, in the 2024-25 season, Al Nassr scored 106 goals between the SPL and the AFC Champions League Elite, with Ronaldo alone responsible for 33 of them, close to a third of the entire total. The shift in numbers this season reflects a team that is not only less reliant on their Portuguese superstar but also more prolific overall.

Harry Kane has established as one of the best players in the world, leading Bayern Munich’s sporting project. With his imposing impact, he is already regarded as a historic figure in England, leaving a deep legacy in the national team and the Premier League. However, icon Joe Cole made an even bolder claim, stating that the 32-year-old star is the best striker the country has ever produced, surpassing Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer.

“Without doubt he’s England‘s greatest No. 9. And I’m including Shearer and Rooney in that. I think he’s gone above them in that. You see the goals he’s scored, it’s ridiculous. If he wins a Ballon d’Or, then he’s in the conversation. If he wins the World Cup, he’s even more in the conversation. But it’s just great that he’s one of ours. He’s been the quietly unassuming hero that’s just crept along. And now all of a sudden we realise how good he is,” Joe Cole said, via GOAL.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Kane has emerged as Bayern Munich’s most important player, scoring 54 goals and providing 7 assists in 46 matches. If he maintains this level, he could win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, ending the 25-year drought since the last winner, Michael Owen. With this, the Englishman would leave a legacy surpassing that of Rooney and Shearer, having made a historic impact on every team he has played for.

Harry Kane has surpassed Wayne Rooney in terms of Premier League goals, scoring 213 in 316 matches. While he did not overtake Alan Shearer, who remains the all-time leader with 260 goals in 441 games, the 32-year-old striker has already overcome both at international level. After scoring 78 goals, he ranks as England’s all-time top scorer, overtaking Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton. Moreover, he ranks as the greatest player in Tottenham Hotspur’s history.

Harry Kane eyes legacy-defining run at 2026 World Cup with England

After delivering the best statistical season of his career, Harry Kane has firmly emerged as a Ballon d’Or contender due to his all-around impact. Alongside this, the Englishman has the perfect opportunity to cement his legacy as a historic figure, leaving no doubt. As the national team’s leader at the 2026 World Cup, he could deliver a dominant performance—potentially leading his country to the title and/or finishing as the tournament’s top scorer.

Harry Kane needs just two goals to surpass Gary Lineker as England’s all-time top scorer in the tournament, meaning he could overtake him in this edition. If he wins the Golden Boot, he would become the only English player to claim the award twice, having previously done so in 2018. Moreover, he could make history by leading his country to the title, something they have not achieved in 60 years.

In case he achieves this, Harry Kane would establish unequivocally as the greatest player in England’s history, surpassing Wayne Rooney, Bobby Charlton, Alan Shearer, among others. Alongside this, he would significantly boost his chances of winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or, marking a historic milestone in both his career and his country’s history.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix continue to drive Al-Nassr toward a historic season, but this time the spotlight has shifted from the veteran icon to his younger Portuguese teammate. While Ronaldo remains central to the club’s title challenge, Felix has now achieved a remarkable milestone that places him above every previous Al-Nassr player in Saudi Pro League history.

The latest chapter came during Al-Nassr’s vital victory over Al-Ahli, where Felix once again supplied the decisive moment for Ronaldo. Their growing partnership has become one of the most productive combinations in the league and a major reason why the club sits in such a commanding position.

Al-Nassr secured a tense 2-0 win over Al-Ahli, extending their outstanding winning streak and tightening their grip on the title race. Cristiano Ronaldo broke the deadlock with a trademark header after rising highest to meet an inswinging corner from Felix.

The finish was Ronaldo at his clinical best, but the build-up once again showcased Felix’s creativity. The Portuguese playmaker has repeatedly found ways to unlock packed defences, and his delivery on this occasion proved priceless.

Ronaldo’s goal was his 25th league goal of the campaign and the latest sign that age has done little to slow his impact. Yet the night also belonged to the man who created it.

The record Felix has broken

With that assist, Joao Felix reached 12 assists in the Saudi Pro League this season, becoming the first Al-Nassr player ever to hit that mark in a single campaign, according to Sofascore‘s data. In doing so, he moved beyond the previous club best of 11 assists, a number previously achieved by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2023-24 and also matched in earlier years by Nordin Amrabat.

That means Felix has now officially surpassed Ronaldo’s all-time Al-Nassr single-season assist record in league play. It is a major achievement given Ronaldo’s enormous attacking influence since arriving in Saudi Arabia. For a player once criticized for inconsistency in Europe, the statistic signals a career revival at exactly the right time.

Career reborn in Riyadh thanks to Jorge Jesus

The 26-year-old forward joined Al-Nassr in July 2025 and quickly adapted to life in Saudi Arabia. Instead of being used as a drifting forward, he has thrived in a freer attacking midfield role where his passing range and movement can shape matches. In fact, he has delivered 39 goal contributions this season: 22 goals and 18 assists in 42 matches across all competitions.

That makes the ongoing campaign the most productive club season of his career. His previous best came during the 2018-19 season at Benfica, when he first emerged as one of Europe’s brightest young talents with 20 goals and 11 assists. Now, years later, he appears to have rediscovered that same spark.

Much of Felix’s resurgence has been credited to manager Jorge Jesus, who repositioned him centrally and handed him greater responsibility in possession. The tactical adjustment has transformed both the player and Al-Nassr’s attack.

The road to the 2026 World Cup continues to deliver unexpected turns with just 41 days to go. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are already closing in on what would likely be a historic sixth World Cup appearance, but Guillermo Ochoa has now emerged as a fresh part of that story.

All three figures are chasing the same rare milestone, with the possibility of reaching six World Cup appearances, something no player has achieved before. Now, a new decision from the Mexican veteran has added fresh intrigue to that race.

The latest development comes after uncertainty around Mexico’s goalkeeper depth chart heading into the tournament. Injuries and shifting form among younger options reopened the discussion over whether Ochoa could still have a role for the national team despite approaching the final stage of his career.

The 40-year-old remains active at Limassol in Cyprus and has repeatedly made it clear that he still believes he can contribute. His vast experience, leadership, and proven World Cup pedigree have made him impossible to ignore.

Mexico’s coaching staff had been considering several names for the goalkeeper unit, including Raul Rangel and Carlos Acevedo. However, Ochoa’s experience on the biggest stage gives him an edge that statistics alone cannot fully measure.

Ochoa’s reported decision revealed

In the middle of the growing speculation, clarity has emerged around Ochoa’s future. Reports confirm that he is set to be included in El Tri’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, putting him in line for a historic appearance.

According to Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter), Guillermo Ochoa is set to be included in Mexico’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he would make his sixth World Cup appearance before retiring from professional football immediately after the tournament.

That would place him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who are also expected to feature for Portugal and Argentina, respectively. If all three appear, they would stand together in one of soccer’s most exclusive groups.

For Ochoa, the tournament would also serve as a farewell to both club and international action. After more than two decades at the professional level, the 2026 World Cup would become the final chapter of an extraordinary career.

Career built on World Cup moments

If everything unfolds as expected, the implications are enormous. Ochoa would join Ronaldo and Messi in becoming the first players ever to appear in six different World Cups, a milestone that has remained out of reach throughout the sport’s history.

All three share a similar timeline. Their journeys began in Germany in 2006, continuing through South Africa in 2010, Brazil in 2014, Russia in 2018, and Qatar in 2022, creating a rare alignment across different eras of the game.

For Ochoa, the path has been unique. He started as a backup, grew into a leader, and eventually became one of the most recognizable goalkeepers on the global stage. His performances, particularly in tournaments like 2014, turned him into a symbol of resilience for the national team.

Match Overview

After recovering from an early setback, RB Bragantino arrive with momentum following a thrilling 3-2 victory over Blooming, a response to their narrow 1-0 defeat against Carabobo. Meanwhile, River Plate have quietly put together a solid start, grinding out a 1-0 win over Carabobo after settling for a 1-1 draw in their opener against Blooming.

With first place in the group potentially on the line, both sides enter this matchup knowing a statement result could shift the balance of power, setting the stage for a fast-paced, high-stakes contest you won’t want to miss.