While dismissing the transfer claims for Al Nassr, the Saudi Pro League issued a major warning to Cristiano Ronaldo after his stance of boycotting the competition by sitting down in the last league game.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the center of controversy after sitting out Al Nassr’s last match in what was widely interpreted as a protest against Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) over a lack of transfer activity during the winter window. Now, not only have those claims been dismissed, but Ronaldo has also received a firm warning from the Saudi Pro League in its latest statement.

As the face of the league, Ronaldo reportedly chose to make his stance clear by withdrawing from the lineup, first against Al Riyadh and potentially again for the upcoming clash with Al Ittihad. The situation has sparked significant turmoil, with speculation growing over whether the Portuguese star could consider a summer departure.

The SPL responded forcefully, downplaying the role of the PIF in day-to-day football operations. In a statement released Thursday, a league spokesperson emphasized the league’s structure: “The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: every club operates independently under the same rules.“

Despite the PIF holding majority stakes in four of Saudi Arabia’s biggest clubs (Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli) the league stressed that decision-making authority rests with each team. “Clubs have their own boards, their own executives and their own football leadership. Decisions on recruitment, spending and strategy sit with those clubs, within a financial framework designed to ensure sustainability and competitive balance. That framework applies equally across the league,” the statement read.

The statement also addressed Ronaldo directly, while taking a clear stance on his reported boycott: “Cristiano has been fully engaged with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s growth and ambition. Like any elite competitor, he wants to win. But no individual — however significant — determines decisions beyond their own club.

Claims over transfer activity dismissed

Al Hilal were the most active club during the 2026 winter transfer window, loaning out João Cancelo (FC Barcelona) and Kaio César (Corinthians), while completing the signings of prospects Kader Meïté (€30 million) and Saïmon Bouabré (€23 million). Late-window reports linking Karim Benzema to a move also fueled Ronaldo’s frustration, though the deal ultimately went through despite his objections.

While Al Nassr did not complete a single international signing, the SPL addressed accusations of unequal treatment head-on: “Recent transfer activity demonstrates that independence clearly. One club strengthened in a particular way. Another chose a different approach. Those were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters.“

The league also pointed to the standings as evidence of competitive balance. “The competitiveness of the league speaks for itself. With only a few points separating the top four, the title race is very much alive. That level of balance reflects a system that is working as intended,” the statement detailed, with Al Nassr sitting in 3rd with 46 points, 4 afar from Al Hilal who have one more game.

“The focus remains on football — on the pitch, where it belongs — and on maintaining a credible, competitive competition for players and fans,” the statement concluded. As Ronaldo weighs the possibility of missing a second straight match, league officials appear unmoved, making clear their position as tensions continue to simmer.

With new PIF problems reportedly surfacing, Cristiano Ronaldo is now set to miss Al Nassr's key SPL game against Al Ittihad.

Cristiano Ronaldo has dominated headlines in Saudi Arabia in recent days after deciding to sit out Al Nassr’s last match as a form of protest toward the country’s Public Investment Fund. With a new issue reportedly emerging, Ronaldo is now also set to miss the crucial Saudi Pro League clash against Al Ittihad.

The situation came to light last Monday, when Ronaldo was left out of the squad for the match against Al Riyadh despite having no reported injury or personal issue. Subsequent reports revealed that the decision was linked to his dissatisfaction with the PIF, specifically over what he views as a lack of investment in Al Nassr during the now-closed winter transfer window.

Al Nassr are scheduled to face Al Ittihad on Matchday 21 in a pivotal SPL fixture, with Ronaldo’s side currently sitting third on 46 points, four behind leaders Al Hilal, who have played one more game. Al Ittihad sit sixth, and a win would significantly tighten the title race, but despite the importance of the matchup, Ronaldo appears poised to maintain his stance.

When Al Nassr released their squad list for the Al Ittihad match, Ronaldo was again absent, confirming he will miss his second consecutive league game. According to Fabrizio Romano, the forward’s frustration with the PIF has not eased, and while no further signings are possible with the transfer window closed, Ronaldo’s position remains unchanged.

The legend only grows. Your commitment, mentality, and leadership drive our dreams forward. 🟡🔵
Happy Birthday, @Cristiano! 🐐 pic.twitter.com/hOAu42yeK0

— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) February 5, 2026

Now 41, Ronaldo has previously emphasized his desire to maintain peak fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which he has said will be his final major tournament. This marks only the second SPL match he has missed this season, but the ongoing boycott could impact not only his pursuit of the 1,000-goal milestone, but also his long-term match readiness.

New issues rise between Ronaldo and the PIF

With the PIF overseeing Saudi Arabia’s four biggest clubs (Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli) Ronaldo’s frustration reportedly centers on what he perceives as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal. Tensions recently escalated when Ronaldo’s protest was said to be aimed at preventing Karim Benzema’s move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, an effort that ultimately failed, and new complications have since emerged.

According to A Bola, the PIF is now dealing with significant delays in salary payments. The Portuguese outlet reports that Ronaldo intends to wait for the situation to be resolved before making his return to competitive action.

Al Nassr’s next fixture beyond the Al Ittihad match is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, against Turkmenistani side FK Arkadag in the AFC Champions League Two Round of 16. With that match falling outside the SPL, it remains unclear whether Ronaldo’s boycott will extend into continental competition as well.

With Portugal expecting to establish their base camp in Miami for the 2026 World Cup, questions rose over the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo to be in Lionel Messi's Inter Miami training center.

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to play in his final World Cup in 2026, which would represent his last chance to lift the most coveted trophy in soccer. Preparations are already underway, and with Portugal expected to establish its base camp in Miami, questions have emerged about the possibility of Ronaldo training at the same facility Lionel Messi uses with Inter Miami.

Messi’s Argentina has already confirmed that it will set up its base in Kansas City, a decision made with the group-stage venues in mind. A similar process has led Portuguese officials to consider Miami as their preferred location, a city that has been transformed by the presence of Ronaldo’s longtime rival.

Speaking at the Portuguese Soccer Congress, head coach Roberto Martínez was asked about Portugal’s base camp. While he left the door open for changes, he did reveal the federation’s current preference: “I can’t confirm, because FIFA will only confirm it in two weeks, but I can say that our idea is to stay in Florida, in Miami.”

Drawn into Group K at the 2026 World Cup, Portugal does not yet know all of its opponents, but the match venues are set. The team will open its campaign on June 17 against the winner of the FIFA International Playoff, followed by a match against Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games scheduled for NRG Stadium in Houston. The final group match, against Colombia on June 27, will be played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

Given that setup, the Spanish coach supported the logic of remaining on the East Coast. “We have two games in Houston, but in a closed stadium. So, the idea is not to train in Houston, it’s to train in the conditions of the third game, which is against Colombia, in Miami,” he said. “So, it makes sense that our base camp is in Miami and we can go to Houston for the first two games, come back, and work with the conditions of the third game,” Martinez concluded.

Could Ronaldo use Inter Miami’s training center?

Despite publicly expressing a desire to base the team in Miami for logistical reasons, official confirmation has yet to arrive, and Martínez did not specify whether the camp would be located within the city itself or in the surrounding area. That distinction leaves multiple training sites in play for Portugal.

According to the Miami Herald’s Michelle Kaufman, Inter Miami’s Florida Blue Training Center, the same facility that hosted Argentina during the last October international window, is one potential option. However, the report noted that it “seems unlikely” Portugal would establish its base at the same complex where Messi and Inter Miami train daily.

If Portugal opts for the broader Miami area, other viable options include Gardens North County District Park in Palm Beach Gardens or Beyond Bancard Field on the campus of Nova Southeastern University in Davie. FIFA is expected to officially announce the base camps for all 48 teams in the coming weeks.

After completing his move to Al Hilal, Karim Benzema made a bold comparison with his new club and Real Madrid, snubbing Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr.

Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo have developed one of the most heated rivalries in Saudi Arabia, fueled largely by recent events involving both stars and rising tensions within the Saudi Pro League. Now set to wear the Al Hilal shirt, the French striker appeared to snub Ronaldo’s Al Nassr by drawing a bold comparison between his new club and Real Madrid.

Notably, Benzema and Ronaldo were both central figures during the most successful era in Real Madrid’s history, lifting four UEFA Champions League titles together as part of their combined five overall triumphs. However, Saudi Arabia has now become the stage for their rivalry to continue, both on and off the pitch, following Benzema’s move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal.

After completing the transfer on the final day of the window, Benzema spoke for the first time as an Al Hilal player on the club’s official website: “It’s good. I’m happy to be here. After my first training with the team, with the coach, I’m so happy and glad to be a part of this team.“

The Frenchman then drew a comparison between his new club and the team where he spent the prime of his career and won the Ballon d’Or. “It’s a good team, with a good history. They have won a lot of trophies. It’s similar, like Real Madrid in Asia. Everything is good, the fans are good, they play well, they have good players, they have a good mentality,” Benzema stated.

The striker concluded by reflecting on his past encounters with Al Hilal, setting high expectations for his new chapter: “I liked this team from before. I used to play against them with Madrid and it was not an easy game. It was a good game so I have good memories. Today I’m happy because I’m a player of Al Hilal.“

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s reported frustration has grown over the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) level of support for Al Nassr, Al Hilal’s successful push to sign Benzema only added fuel to the situation. With Ronaldo skipping Al Nassr’s most recent match and Benzema now settled at his new club, the Frenchman’s comments appeared to elevate Al Hilal above their domestic rivals.

When could Ronaldo and Benzema face each other?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema were originally set to cross paths again next Friday, when Al Nassr host Al Ittihad, but Benzema’s sudden transfer changed those plans. With Ronaldo also reportedly considering missing Al Nassr’s next match, their reunion may now be delayed until later in the season.

Al Nassr and Al Hilal are scheduled to meet on May 7 for Matchday 32 of the Saudi Pro League, a clash that could prove decisive in the title race with just one point separating the two clubs. The matchup would mark another chapter in the rivalry between Ronaldo and Benzema, adding extra edge to what is already shaping up to be one of the league’s most anticipated fixtures.

After expressing his discomfort over the club transfer spendings, Pep Guardiola's future at Manchester City has been reportedly revealed.

Pep Guardiola has turned Manchester City into one of the most dominant teams in world soccer, delivering the sustained success Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed envisioned when he acquired the club in 2008. However, after recently voicing frustration over the club’s transfer spending, questions have resurfaced about Guardiola’s long-term future with the Sky Blues, and reports suggest clarity may be emerging.

Following a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, City currently trail Arsenal in the Premier League title race with 47 points, sitting six points off the top. Determined to rebound after a trophyless season, Guardiola has navigated a year plagued by injuries, prompting the club to secure Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guéhi during the January 2026 transfer window.

Asked during Tuesday’s press conference about those additions, Guardiola delivered a pointed message toward the club’s hierarchy: “Yeah, really good. I’m a little bit sad and upset because in net spend in the last five years we are seventh in the Premier League. I want to be the first. I don’t understand why the club don’t spend more money. I am a little bit grumpy with them.“

Despite January reinforcements, Guardiola widened his perspective to the broader financial landscape of the past five seasons. While Manchester City’s net spend is estimated at around €460 million, six Premier League clubs, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Liverpool, have spent more in the transfer market, even as City continue to lead the league in wage expenditure.

“But like we won in the past because we spent a lot, now six teams have to win the Premier Leagues, Champions Leagues and FA Cups because they spend more in the last five years,” Guardiola added. “These are facts. It’s not an opinion. Good luck to the six teams ahead of us in net spend over the last five years,” the City boss concluded, issuing a clear challenge to his rivals.

Guardiola’s long-term future at City in doubt

Amid speculation linking him to the Brazil national team job following the 2024–25 season, Guardiola ultimately signed a two-year contract extension with Manchester City. Still, with his current deal set to expire in June 2027, the club is already preparing for a future in which the Spanish manager may no longer be at the helm.

According to BBC Sport, there are growing doubts internally over whether Guardiola will remain beyond next season, despite having another year left on his contract. Even if he chooses to stay through its expiration, the report suggests it is “improbable” that he would agree to another extension.

With City still competing on multiple fronts, second in the Premier League, qualified for the Champions League Round of 16, and set to play in the Carabao Cup final, no immediate decision is expected. The report adds that clarity on Guardiola’s future is more likely to come near the end of the season or shortly after the campaign concludes.

Potential successors have already been discussed, including Xabi Alonso following his departure from Real Madrid, Enzo Maresca, and Como head coach Cesc Fàbregas. As City approach a decade under Guardiola’s leadership, the club’s hierarchy is quietly weighing long-term options for life after the most successful manager in its history.

After missing the last game against Al Riyadh and tensions with the Saudi Pro League growing, Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly made a key decision on his presence in Al Nassr's next game.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from Al Nassr’s match last Monday sparked significant turmoil across the Saudi Pro League, with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) emerging as the main target of criticism. With Al Nassr set to return to action against Al Ittihad on Friday, the Portuguese legend has reportedly made a key decision regarding his availability for the fixture.

The news broke during Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh, when Ronaldo was left out of the squad despite not carrying an injury. Reports later revealed that the decision stemmed from off-field issues, with the Portuguese star growing increasingly frustrated over what he perceives as a lack of investment in Al Nassr compared to rivals Al Hilal, a stance that could once again influence his availability.

According to ESPN, Ronaldo is expected to maintain his current position and boycott a second consecutive match, opting not to feature against Al Ittihad. The report adds that the 40-year-old has yet to receive concrete assurances from the PIF regarding potential changes to the club’s management structure.

Ronaldo has remained publicly silent on the situation, even missing Al Nassr’s training session on Tuesday. The most recent update came Wednesday, when the forward returned to training and shared a photo from the club’s facilities, though without addressing the ongoing controversy.

💛💙 pic.twitter.com/Pn4WaVrqcN

— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) February 4, 2026

Al Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus has previously referenced the level of influence Al Hilal wields compared to Al Nassr, a sentiment echoed by Ronaldo in recent weeks. His frustration intensified during a 3-1 defeat, when he accused officials of favoring Al Hilal, but the tipping point reportedly came when Karim Benzema neared a move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal following contract disagreements.

Al Nassr will host Al Ittihad on Friday at Al Awwal Park for Matchday 21, with the club sitting second in the SPL standings on 46 points, just one behind leaders Al Hilal. Although Al Nassr managed a narrow 1-0 win over Al Riyadh without Ronaldo, the potential absence of the team’s leading scorer (18 goals in 22 matches) would be a significant blow in a pivotal clash.

Ronaldo’s future at Al Nassr increasingly uncertain

The PIF currently controls four of the Saudi Pro League’s top clubs: Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, and Al Nassr. While all four have benefited from heavy investment and sustained success, Ronaldo reportedly believes Al Hilal has received preferential treatment within the league’s structure.

ESPN has also reported that Ronaldo could seek an exit from the Saudi Pro League as early as June if meaningful changes are not implemented. Additional reports suggest the forward has a €50 million release clause in his contract, a figure that could reopen the door to a dramatic move and trigger another major shift in the global soccer landscape.

Less than six months before the start of the 2026 World Cup, the Argentina FA has confirmed the base where Lionel Messi’s national team will be stationed.

Lionel Messi is preparing for what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance in 2026, while head coach Lionel Scaloni continues to fine-tune plans for Argentina’s squad. With less than six months to go before the tournament kicks off, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed that the team will be based on U.S. soil for much of the World Cup, which will be staged across North America.

AFA announced that Kansas City will serve as the Albiceleste’s base during the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While the specific training facility has not yet been disclosed, expectations are that Sporting Kansas City’s training complex will host Messi and the national team.

The decision was the result of extensive planning. In a statement released Wednesday, AFA explained that after several inspection visits and a comprehensive final report, “it was concluded that Kansas City would be the ideal location to approach the competition, based on the distances between host cities and, above all, the facilities and overall comfort available to the delegation.”

Earlier expectations pointed toward Argentina setting up camp in Miami, Florida—particularly at Inter Miami’s facilities—mirroring what the national team did during the October international break and factoring in Messi’s presence there. However, the locations of Argentina’s group-stage matches ultimately led the federation to adjust its plans.

#SelecciónMayor El equipo comandado por Lionel Scaloni hará base en Kansas City.

📝https://t.co/2Ll5Hji26D pic.twitter.com/UonTw59qSi

— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) February 4, 2026

With two pre–World Cup friendlies still to be scheduled, the group-stage venues played a decisive role in the choice. Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on June 16, before traveling to Dallas to face Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27 at AT&T Stadium. Should Argentina top the group, Messi and company could then continue their run in cities such as Miami, Atlanta, and New York/New Jersey.

Which camp will Messi’s Argentina use?

While Argentina’s strategic base city has been confirmed, the specific training ground has yet to be officially announced. Had Miami been selected, Inter Miami’s Fort Lauderdale facility would have been the obvious choice, but the shift to Kansas City has opened up new possibilities.

The leading candidate is Sporting Kansas City’s training complex, a top-tier facility regularly used by the MLS club. An alternative option under consideration is the Kansas City Current’s facilities from the NWSL. Training is expected to begin on June 1, once Scaloni has finalized the World Cup squad.

While in talks to take over the club, reports have raised claiming the possibility for Sergio Ramos to make a surprise return to Sevilla as a player.

Sergio Ramos has been making moves in his career not as a player, but with the possibility of becoming part-owner of the club where he rose to prominence, Sevilla. However, reports have now surfaced suggesting that the 39-year-old defender could also make a surprise return to the pitch with the Andalusian side.

After spending one season with Liga MX club Monterrey, Ramos chose not to renew his contract, which expired last December, as he weighed the possibility of returning to European soccer. While the 2026 winter transfer window has closed, the Spanish legend remains a free agent and has yet to sign with a new club.

At the same time, Ramos has partnered with Five Eleven Capital, an American soccer-focused investment group, as part of a potential takeover bid. According to Cadena SER, the former Real Madrid captain has reached a preliminary agreement with Sevilla’s core group of reference shareholders to move forward with the acquisition.

Now, Diario de Sevilla reports that Sevilla is considering the signing of Ramos as a player, a move that would mark his third spell with the club. While there were initially no sporting discussions, the possibility has gained traction as talks surrounding the club’s ownership situation have progressed.

Sevilla are currently dealing with a difficult La Liga campaign, having conceded 37 goals through 22 matches, the most in the league. Sitting 15th in the table, just two points above the relegation zone, the club could look to Ramos’ experience and leadership to bring stability to an unsettled back line.

Could Ramos play at Sevilla as an owner?

As a free agent, Ramos would face no sporting obstacles to rejoining Sevilla. However, his potential dual role raises legal questions under Spanish law regarding conflicts of interest.

Spain’s Sports Law includes a clause prohibiting active players from holding commercial interests in competitions in which they participate, a rule that would conflict with Ramos’ ownership ambitions. Still, the timeline for the club’s sale reportedly points to June, which could allow the two situations to coexist from a legal standpoint.

A Brazil legend claimed that Neymar missing the 2026 World Cup would turn the national team into "just another team."

Neymar’s potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup has become one of the most debated topics surrounding the Brazil national team, as the forward has made it clear he hopes to feature in what would likely be his final appearance at the tournament. With his return to the Seleção still uncertain, a Brazilian legend delivered a blunt assessment, claiming that without Neymar, Brazil would become “just another team.”

Romário, who led Brazil to a memorable World Cup triumph in the United States in 1994, remains one of the most iconic figures in the country’s soccer history. A winner of two Copa América titles and a Confederations Cup, the former Barcelona and Valencia striker believes Neymar remains the centerpiece of Brazil’s current project.

In an interview with Veja Magazine, Romário did not hesitate to address the potential consequences of Neymar missing the World Cup: “Neymar’s absence is certainly very bad for Brazil. The sixth title will definitely be farther away. We can only hope he is physically well and able to give everything he has.“

Even acknowledging Neymar’s ongoing fitness concerns, Romário stressed that the Santos star remains a decisive figure regardless of his condition. “I don’t know if he’ll be able to be there without issues, but if Neymar is at 70 percent, that’s already good enough—he already helps, he already makes a difference,” he added.

The 1994 World Cup winner closed with his strongest statement yet, offering a stark view of Brazil without Neymar. “And without Neymar, the national team unfortunately becomes just another team,” Romário concluded, effectively removing Brazil from the list of clear favorites for the tournament set to be held in North America.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has already stated that Neymar remains an option for the World Cup, but only if he is fully fit. That stance contrasts with Romário’s belief that even a less-than-100-percent Neymar would still be capable of changing games, highlighting a difference in philosophy between the former striker and the Italian manager.

How has Brazil performed without Neymar?

Nearly two and a half years have passed since Neymar last wore the Brazil jersey, on October 17, 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL against Uruguay. Since then, the Seleção has undergone significant changes, both on the field and off it, including shifts in leadership and a noticeable decline in dominance.

Without Neymar, Brazil have played 26 matches across friendlies, the 2024 Copa América and CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers. During that stretch, the team recorded 11 wins, eight draws and seven losses, along with a quarterfinal exit at the Copa América against Uruguay, results that fall short of Brazil’s traditional standards in South America.

Brazil placed fifth in the World Cup qualifying standings, and under the previous format would have been facing the possibility of a playoff berth. Compounding the instability, four different coaches—Fernando Diniz, Dorival Júnior, interim manager Ramon Menezes and now Ancelotti—have occupied the dugout since Neymar’s injury, underscoring a turbulent period for the five-time world champions.

While stating that the squad list is still open, head coach Carlo Ancelotti set the conditions to Neymar to make his return to the Brazil national team for the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar’s decision to sign a new deal with Santos was driven by his plan to regain full fitness and push for a return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. While acknowledging that the final roster is still not set, head coach Carlo Ancelotti made clear that there are firm conditions Neymar must meet to be included in Brazil’s plans.

Since Ancelotti took over as Brazil’s head coach, Neymar’s potential return to the national team has remained a constant topic of discussion. However, a combination of recurring injuries and frank conversations between the star and the Italian manager has delayed that comeback, raising questions about Neymar’s availability for what he hopes will be his final World Cup.

Speaking Monday at a CBF event in Rio de Janeiro announcing a new sponsor, Ancelotti addressed whether the World Cup list has already been defined: “It is not decided. At the first press conference, I said that Brazil is fortunate to have many good players. The list is not closed, but we are close to the final squad. There are some positions that are not completely defined.“

That statement immediately fueled speculation about Neymar’s chances, particularly after Ancelotti described him as “the most talented player in the country.” Still, the coach drew a clear line regarding the forward’s physical condition. “If he’s 100 percent physically, not 80 percent,” Ancelotti stressed.

Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil came on Oct. 17, 2023, against Uruguay in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, when he suffered a torn ACL that sidelined him for more than a year. Since then, four different head coaches have occupied Brazil’s bench, including Ancelotti, yet the former Barcelona star has not been recalled.

At present, Neymar continues his recovery with Santos after undergoing knee surgery last year to repair a meniscus injury. The forward has returned to training with Peixe, and expectations are that he could make his return to the pitch next Wednesday in the Brasileirão clash against São Paulo.

Brazil’s preparations before 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup could mark the final appearance for a core group of Canarinha veterans, including Casemiro (33), Alex Sandro (35), Alisson (33), Marquinhos (31) and, of course, Neymar (33). As part of the buildup, Brazil face a challenging schedule designed to help Ancelotti refine his squad.

Brazil’s next matches will come during the March international window, beginning with a showdown against France on the 26th, followed by a clash with Croatia on the 31st. Additional friendlies ahead of the tournament have yet to be confirmed, with Brazil set to open their World Cup campaign on June 13 against Morocco, a match many fans hope will feature Neymar back in the Seleção lineup.

While drawing criticism at Real Madrid, France head coach Didier Deschamps backed Kylian Mbappé's "selfishness."

Kylian Mbappé has been enjoying an outstanding 2025-26 season on an individual level, but Real Madrid have fallen short of expectations as a collective. Amid the contrast between elite personal production and inconsistent team results, France head coach Didier Deschamps has stepped in to defend the star forward’s perceived “selfishness.”

Mbappé’s numbers alone place him firmly in the Golden Boot conversation, with 37 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions for Real Madrid. Still, one of the most persistent criticisms of his game has centered on his limited defensive work rate, particularly his lack of high pressing when the team is out of possession.

That criticism prompted a response from Deschamps, who spoke at the Sports Journalism Festival in Laval, France. “We have this image of someone who is very selfish and individualistic,” he stated. “Of course, he is a striker; it would be a problem if he didn’t have a certain level of ego… I assure you that, in terms of how things work and everything else, he is someone who knows that since becoming captain, his word carries weight with the entire group.“

Similar concerns were raised during Mbappé’s final seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, where his defensive effort was often questioned under coach Luis Enrique. A widely shared clip from a 2024 Movistar+ documentary showed Enrique scolding Mbappé over his pressing responsibilities, reinforcing the idea that defensive intensity was never a defining trait of his game and contributing to tensions before his eventual departure.

In that context, Deschamps emphasized that the focus should remain on what Mbappé brings offensively: “If you want to judge Kylian by saying he has to run at least 11 kilometers per match… don’t bother, he won’t do it. But, on the other hand, he has many other important and decisive qualities.“

Mbappé’s production with the France national team further supports Deschamps’ stance. He has scored 55 goals in 94 appearances for Les Bleus and now sits just two goals shy of Olivier Giroud’s all-time scoring record. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Deschamps appears unconcerned about anything beyond Mbappé’s ability to deliver goals.

Mbappé on pace for his best goalscoring season

High pressing became a hallmark of Luis Enrique’s PSG during last season’s Champions League run, but Mbappé’s departure has not slowed his scoring output. Despite Real Madrid’s instability following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal and Álvaro Arbeloa’s appointment, the Frenchman remains on track for the most prolific season of his career.

Mbappé’s personal best for goals in a single club season stands at 44, a mark he has reached twice: once at PSG and once during his debut campaign with Real Madrid. He currently sits at 37 goals in the 2025-26 season, with at least 18 matches remaining and three months still to play. With just eight goals needed to set a new benchmark, expectations are high for Mbappé to continue rewriting his own record books.

Still without a club after leaving Club León, James Rodríguez could end up joining Lionel Messi in MLS, as one club is reportedly in advanced talks to sign the Colombian star.

Lionel Messi has dramatically raised Major League Soccer’s profile since his arrival in 2023, fueling league-wide growth and increasing its global competitiveness. Now, James Rodríguez could become the latest South American star to follow that path, as one MLS club is reportedly exploring a move for the Colombian midfielder ahead of the 2026 season.

Rodríguez’s club situation has become a growing concern for the Colombia national team. Since his stint with Liga MX side Club León ended, the veteran midfielder has struggled to secure a new destination. Currently training individually as he prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Rodríguez could receive a timely boost with interest emerging from North America.

According to The Athletic’s Tom Bogert, Minnesota United are targeting Rodríguez for the 2026 MLS season. After a playoff run that ended in the Western Conference semifinals, the Loons are reportedly looking to add a high-profile piece to elevate their roster and push deeper into contention.

Recent reports indicated that Rodríguez had also been offered to two Argentine clubs, though financial concerns quickly surfaced as a major hurdle. Minnesota United have now emerged as the leading candidate to land the Colombian, positioning themselves ahead of other suitors following his departure from León.

Here we go pic.twitter.com/ZCF8zUYo4z

— James Rodríguez (@jamesdrodriguez) February 3, 2026

Over the last few hours, the Colombian star shared a photo of himself on a plane with the caption “Here we go.” Amid growing rumors regarding his future, this cryptic message is being interpreted as a sign that his move to MLS is nearing completion.

Minnesota United are set to begin preseason friendlies in the coming days, with their MLS opener scheduled for Feb. 21 against Austin FC. Rodríguez, meanwhile, has not appeared in a competitive match since Nov. 8 against Puebla, raising questions about his match fitness ahead of a potential move.

Could Minnesota United afford James Rodríguez?

One of the primary obstacles in Rodríguez’s recent transfer discussions has been his financial demands. Barcelona SC president David Álvarez previously confirmed that the midfielder was offered to the Ecuadorian club, but the deal was abandoned due to concerns it would strain the team’s finances.

Minnesota United, however, have been relatively quiet in the transfer market. Their most notable addition has been Mauricio González, signed from Deportes Tolima for approximately $1.2 million. While Rodríguez would significantly raise the team’s ceiling, MLS roster and salary restrictions could complicate any potential deal.

Currently, Minnesota’s Designated Player slots are occupied by Joaquín Pereyra, Tomás Chancalay, and striker Kelvin Yeboah. With all three slots filled, it remains unclear whether the Loons can realistically meet Rodríguez’s financial expectations under league rules, making his MLS future far from certain.

Looking for a place in the final, Arsenal and Chelsea are facing each other at the Emirates Stadium for the Carabao Cup semifinals.

Arsenal host Chelsea in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal after edging the first meeting 3-2, giving the Gunners a narrow advantage heading into the return fixture. With a spot in the season’s first major final on the line, both London rivals are going all out at Emirates Stadium.

The hosts enter the match in strong form following a dominant 4-0 win over Leeds United, a result that kept them top of the Premier League with 53 points from 24 matches. Chelsea, meanwhile, have built momentum since the first leg, riding a five-game winning streak under new head coach Liam Rosenior.

On the other side of the Carabao Cup bracket, Manchester City and Newcastle United are battling for the second place in the final, with City holding a 2-0 advantage ahead of Wednesday’s second leg. While Mikel Arteta and Arsenal are aiming to end their trophy drought dating back to the 2023 Community Shield, Chelsea are looking to launch a new era under Rosenior following Enzo Maresca’s dismissal.

Bukayo Saka a major doubt for Arsenal

One of Arsenal’s biggest concerns surrounds Bukayo Saka, who was ruled out of the win over Leeds United after suffering an unexpected injury. The England international picked up a muscle issue during warm-up prior to that match, casting doubt over his availability for the crucial clash against Chelsea.

Speaking at Monday’s press conference, Arteta addressed Saka’s status ahead of the semifinal: “We have to wait. Today he was better but we have to wait and see how he responds, and then make the decision. It doesn’t look like something too serious. Whether he’s going to be available for tomorrow or the weekend, we’ll see.“

Arsenal and Chelsea’s confirmed lineups

Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): Kepa Arrizabalaga; Jurrien Timber, William Salibá, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Martinelli.
Head coach: Mikel Arteta.

Chelsea’s confirmed lineup (3-5-2): Robert Sanchez; Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Jorrel Hato; Malo Gusto, Moses Caicedo, Andrey Santos, Enzo Fernandez, Marc Cucurella; Liam Delap, Joao Pedro.
Head coach: Liam Rosenior.

Looking forward to be fit for the 2026 World Cup, Colombia star James Rodríguez has been reportedly offered to two clubs in Argentina.

James Rodríguez’s situation has raised concern within the Colombia national team, as the midfielder has struggled to find a club during the winter transfer window with less than 6 months for the beginning of the 2026 World Cup. Now, hope for the Cafeteros has been reignited, with reports claiming Rodríguez has been offered to two teams in Argentina.

After his deal with Liga MX side Club León expired at the end of last season, James became a free agent, searching for a new club to prepare for the World Cup. However, contrary to expectations, the Colombian legend was unable to secure a move, largely due to his financial demands. Still, a new opportunity has now emerged.

As reported by Argentine outlet 0221 and cited by Infobae, James Rodríguez has been offered to Estudiantes de La Plata, a club chaired by Argentine icon Juan Sebastián Verón. Additionally, transfer expert César Luis Merlo revealed that Rodríguez has also been offered to Platense, who are seriously evaluating the possibility of signing him.

Even so, bringing in Rodríguez on a free transfer would still require a significant financial commitment for Argentine clubs, whose wage structures are more limited than those of other South American leagues, particularly Brazil’s. Both Estudiantes and Platense, however, have the advantage of competing in the Copa Libertadores, offering Rodríguez the opportunity to maintain high-level competitive minutes as he continues his preparation.

There are also questions surrounding Rodríguez’s match fitness, as his last appearance came on November 8 with Club León against Puebla, and he has been training individually since leaving Mexico. Still, the Argentine league is familiar territory for the midfielder, who previously played for Banfield in 2008 and helped the club win its first league title in 2009.

Colombia preparing for the World Cup

With James Rodríguez serving not only as captain but also as Colombia’s leading scorer in the current CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the national team is eager to see him back on the field regularly. In the meantime, as his club future remains unresolved, Colombia’s path toward the tournament in North America is beginning to take shape.

In roughly six weeks, the March international window will begin, with Colombia heading to the United States for a pair of high-profile friendlies. The Cafeteros will first face Croatia on March 26 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, before traveling to Landover, Maryland, to take on France on March 29 at Northwest Stadium, two key matches where Rodríguez is expected to play a central role.

With tensions growing between the league management and Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese star's future at Al Nassr with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon has been put in doubt, with a release clause emerging.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the center of growing tension at Al Nassr in recent days, largely due to his absence from the club’s most recent match against Al Riyadh. Amid reported discomfort with the league’s direction, the Portuguese star’s future at the club ahead of the 2026 World Cup has been thrown into doubt, with a release clause now emerging as a key factor.

While Ronaldo has remained silent publicly, multiple reports have suggested that his decision to miss the Al Nassr match stemmed from dissatisfaction with the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s role in the league. Central to that frustration is what has been perceived as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, highlighted by the completion of Karim Benzema’s move to the rival club.

According to Record journalist Rafael Godinho, Ronaldo is now weighing the possibility of leaving Saudi Arabia altogether. Unhappy with the current situation, June has been identified as the month in which the forward could make a definitive decision, with Major League Soccer and a potential return to Europe cited as possible destinations.

More recently, Record CEO Pedro Sousa reported that Ronaldo’s contract—signed in June 2025 on a two-year deal—includes a clause that would allow him to leave Al Nassr in June 2026. The release clause is reportedly set at €50 million for any club interested in securing his services.

If the situation continues to escalate, Ronaldo’s stance could trigger a significant turning point in his career. With the 2026 World Cup set to kick off on June 11 with a match between Mexico and South Africa, there is a scenario in which the Portuguese forward could resolve his club future even before the tournament begins.

It is worth noting that Record is owned by Cofina Media, a media group in which Ronaldo is a major investor. Still, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner set to turn 41 in the coming months, questions remain over whether any club would be willing to activate such a release clause, or whether Ronaldo himself would ultimately choose to part ways with Al Nassr.

What’s next for Cristiano Ronaldo?

As the face of the Saudi Pro League since his arrival in December 2022, reports indicate that Ronaldo no longer feels fully backed by the PIF. With the winter transfer window now closed, Al Nassr added only two reinforcements, neither of them international stars, while rivals Al Hilal significantly strengthened their squad with the arrival of Benzema.

For now, the next step remains unclear. Al Nassr are set to host Al Ittihad in their next league match on Friday, February 6, with global attention focused on Ronaldo’s potential involvement. Given his role as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid, how this episode ultimately shapes his relationship with the country remains an open question.

With tensions growing in the Saudi Pro League over his move to Al Hilal, Karim Benzema broke the silence with a farewell message to Al Ittihad.

Karim Benzema has generated headlines in recent days as uncertainty surrounding his contract placed his future at Al Ittihad in doubt. With tensions rising across the Saudi Pro League, the French star has now broken his silence, issuing a farewell message to his former club after completing his move to Al Hilal.

The dispute between Benzema and Al Ittihad escalated this week when the striker requested to be left out of the club’s most recent match. According to reports, Benzema felt disrespected by a contract renewal proposal that would have extended his deal beyond the 2025-26 season with no base salary, leaving his earnings tied solely to image rights.

The situation quickly sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League, with Benzema determined to leave Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window despite only days remaining before its closure. Al Hilal then emerged as a destination, stepping in as the club finalized the sale of Marcos Leonardo to Atlético Madrid, a move that reportedly drew frustration from another league star.

According to multiple reports, Cristiano Ronaldo chose to sit out Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh amid growing dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund’s management. One of his concerns centered on what he perceived as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, particularly in contrast to Al Nassr’s lack of international signings, with the push to sign Benzema cited as a key flashpoint.

Despite those objections, Ronaldo’s stance did not prevent the deal from going through. On deadline day, Benzema completed his transfer to Al Hilal, with Al Ittihad announcing the termination of his contract. The Ballon d’Or winner will now remain in Saudi Arabia through June 2027 after signing a reported 18-month deal with his new club.

Benzema’s message to Al Ittihad fans

With his contract at Real Madrid expiring, Benzema chose to join Al Ittihad in July 2023 as part of the Saudi Pro League’s ambitious project. Alongside stars such as N’Golo Kanté, Fabinho and Moussa Diaby, the striker helped the club lift both the Saudi Cup and the league title during the 2024-25 season, cementing his place in Al Ittihad history.

After two and a half years at the club, Benzema took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a farewell message addressed to Al Ittihad and their supporters: “Al Ittihad, this chapter comes to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain. Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the welcome, the love, and the energy you gave me every day.

“This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and of everything we shared. I wish you all the best for what’s next. Respect. KB9,” Benzema concluded his message.

Benzema, who wore the captain’s armband in his final appearances, leaves Al Ittihad with 54 goals and 17 assists in 83 matches, along with two major trophies. Still, his departure was met with backlash from sections of the fan base, with videos circulating on social media showing supporters burning his jerseys, a stark reflection of how abruptly his tenure came to an end.

Rebuilding the roster for the 2026 MLS season, Inter Miami have announced the departure of one of Lionel Messi's important teammates.

Inter Miami remain in the midst of a roster rebuild during the winter transfer window, with less than one month remaining before the start of the 2026 Major League Soccer season. As the club continues to fine-tune its squad, the Herons have now officially confirmed the departure of an important teammate of Lionel Messi ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The club announced Monday that Inter Miami and goalkeeper Óscar Ustari have mutually agreed to terminate his contract. The 39-year-old, who spent a season and a half with the organization based in Fort Lauderdale, will now move on after his time with the Herons comes to an end.

After his contract with Audax Italiano expired, Inter Miami signed Ustari as a free agent in September 2024. He went on to be part of the squad that captured the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, setting a league record for the most points in a single regular MLS season.

During the 2025 season, Ustari stepped into the starting role after Drake Callender lost his spot due to injury, also serving as the team’s goalkeeper at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. By the end of the year, however, he had relinquished the starting job, finishing the season with 40 appearances, 61 goals conceded, and 9 clean sheets across all competitions.

Ustari previously shared the field with Messi in Argentina’s youth national teams, including the U-20 World Cup-winning squad in 2005 and the Olympic gold medal team in 2008. One of the veterans of the locker room, the Argentine departs Inter Miami with a Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup added to his trophy collection.

Who’ll cover the posts at Inter Miami now?

In the Eligible Player Lists for Offseason Roster Mechanisms published by MLS in December, Inter Miami placed Marcelo Weigandt, Rocco Ríos-Novo, and Óscar Ustari in Stage 1 of the Re-Entry Process. With William Yarbrough no longer on the roster and Ríos-Novo returning to Lanús, Ustari had been the club’s lone goalkeeper until Inter Miami secured a replacement.

That replacement is expected to be Dayne St. Clair. The Canadian international joined on a free transfer after his contract with Minnesota United expired following the 2025 MLS season, one in which he was named Goalkeeper of the Year and earned a spot on the league’s Best XI.

In addition, Inter Miami have bolstered their depth by re-signing Rocco Ríos-Novo, who impressed during the club’s MLS Cup run late last season. Most recently, the Herons also announced the signing of former New York City FC goalkeeper Luis Barraza on a deal through June 2027 with an option for 2028, giving the club three goalkeeping options and ultimately leaving Ustari without a role going forward.

With his latest goal, Lamine Yamal tied the goalscoring record of an Argentina legend at FC Barcelona, and it's not Lionel Messi.

Lamine Yamal has been building his own legacy at FC Barcelona despite his young age, establishing himself as one of the club’s most important players at just 18 years old. Continuing to add milestones at his boyhood club, Yamal has now tied the Barcelona goalscoring record of an Argentina legend, and it isn’t Lionel Messi.

While often compared to Messi due to his playing style, Yamal has so far been more of a creator than a pure finisher, contributing more assists than goals and emerging as one of Barcelona’s primary playmakers. That said, last Saturday against Elche, he opened the scoring in a 3-1 La Liga victory when, after a perfectly timed through ball from Dani Olmo, the winger rounded goalkeeper Iñaki Peña and finished into an empty net with his right foot.

With that goal against Elche, Yamal reached 38 goals in a Barcelona shirt, tying Diego Maradona’s total during his time at the club. The Spanish prodigy reached that mark in his fourth season with the senior team, while the Argentine icon accomplished it across two campaigns.

Maradona joined Barcelona from Argentinos Juniors in 1982 at age 21 and, between 1982 and 1984, recorded 38 goals and 23 assists in 58 appearances before moving on to Napoli. Those numbers contrast sharply with Yamal’s output, as the teenager has already produced 38 goals and 40 assists across 134 matches for the Blaugrana.

Still, Yamal’s achievement stands out given his age and trajectory. Since making his debut during the 2022-23 season, he has steadily evolved, reaching this milestone at just 18 years old, five years younger than Maradona was when he hit the same mark. While he remains far from the top of Barcelona’s all-time scoring list, time is firmly on his side as he continues to climb the club’s historical rankings.

What about Lionel Messi’s record?

With Lionel Messi’s departure still lingering in the minds of Barcelona supporters, Yamal has emerged as a new symbol of hope and a potential long-term successor. However, Messi’s club-record 672 goals in 778 appearances remain a distant target, with Yamal currently nowhere near ten percent of that historic total.

Even so, Yamal’s pace offers encouragement when projecting future growth. Now 18 years old, he plays a central role under Hansi Flick this season, appearing in 28 matches while recording 13 goals and 13 assists, elite production for a player of his age.

By comparison, when Messi turned 18 in June 2005, he was still in his second professional season and largely used in rotation. During the 2005-06 campaign, injuries limited him to 25 appearances, in which he scored eight goals and added five assists. With roughly half the current season remaining, Yamal has already surpassed those numbers, sending a clear message about his extraordinary trajectory heading into the years ahead.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the center of controversy, as the Portuguese star is reportedly blocking a domino effect in the Saudi Pro League involving Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made headlines in Saudi Arabia in recent days after opting out of Al Nassr’s most recent match, a decision that reports have framed as a protest aimed at league authorities. Amid that backdrop, the Portuguese star was reportedly blocking a domino effect in the Saudi Pro League involving Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté.

With several high-profile players, including Fabinho, Kanté and Benzema, nearing the end of their contracts, Al Ittihad had been preparing for potential departures during the winter transfer window in an effort to offset previous investments. Among them, the French duo appeared most inclined to seek a move midway through the season, albeit under different circumstances.

Fenerbahce initially pushed to sign Kanté, while Benzema, facing uncertainty over his contract and dissatisfied with an offer on the table, was left out of Al Ittihad’s most recent match. With their star striker potentially on the way out, Al Ittihad pursued Fenerbahce forward Youssef En-Nesyri, structuring a swap deal that would send Kanté back to Europe.

At the same time, Al Hilal emerged as the leading contender to sign Benzema. Fabrizio Romano reported that the striker had already agreed to personal terms, while Kanté had reportedly completed medical tests to finalize his move. Both deals, however, remained pending official approval as the Saudi transfer window approached its close.

Ronaldo blocks Benzema and Kanté deals to the detriment of Al Hilal

According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Ronaldo opposed Benzema’s potential transfer to Al Hilal, a stance that reportedly factored into his decision to sit out Al Nassr’s last match. That opposition threatened to derail the chain reaction that would have seen Kanté depart as part of the En-Nesyri swap.

Ronaldo’s frustration is said to stem from dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund’s management of Al Nassr, particularly regarding perceived underinvestment. The Portuguese star, echoing sentiments previously voiced by coach Jorge Jesus, has also taken note of what he views as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, a perception reinforced by the push to bring Benzema to the club.

Further fueling the situation, Record CEO Pedro Sousa reported that the PIF wanted Ronaldo himself to move to Al Hilal ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in June. According to Sousa, Ronaldo rejected the idea of playing for another Saudi club, a decision that further strained relations and added weight to his current stance.

Now with the Saudi Pro League transfer window closed, Ronaldo’s reported plan ultimately fell short. Benzema was officially announced as an Al Hilal player, while RMC Sport reported that Kanté joined Fenerbahce in a €5 million deal, with En-Nesyri’s move expected to be completed in the coming hours. With Al Nassr set to face Al Ittihad next Friday, doubts over Ronaldo’s availability have begun to surface, a development that could signal broader repercussions across Saudi soccer.

Set to face Bolgona to keep up the pace in the Serie A title race, AC Milan star Christian Pulisic has reportedly received an upsetting injury update.

Christian Pulisic has endured a noticeable dip in form in 2026, with the USMNT star yet to record a goal contribution for AC Milan this calendar year, a sharp contrast to his early-season impact. As the Rossoneri prepare for a key Serie A matchup against Bologna, Pulisic has now been dealt a concerning injury update.

Following a 1-1 draw with AS Roma last Sunday, Milan failed to close the gap on city rivals Inter Milan, who have gone on an impressive unbeaten run of 10 wins and one draw since losing the Derby della Madonnina. Inter sit on 55 points with an eight-point lead, leaving Milan in urgent need of three points against Bologna, though head coach Massimiliano Allegri may be without a full squad.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pulisic is managing ongoing muscular discomfort that has lingered in recent weeks. Allegri granted the squad a rest day on Friday, but the American still reported to Milanello for treatment, where the issue reportedly persisted.

Pulisic has already battled a hamstring injury suffered during the October international break with the USMNT, an issue that sidelined him for nearly seven weeks. Since returning, Milan have played 14 matches, with Pulisic missing two and completing the full 90 minutes only twice: against Genoa and Fiorentina.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Matchday 23 clash with Bologna, Milan are reportedly hopeful Pulisic can at least make the bench and be used if needed, similar to his appearance against Roma, when he was introduced in the 69th minute for Christopher Nkunku. His availability, however, will be assessed over the next 24 hours, raising fresh concerns about his fitness.

Milan’s injury crisis in attack

A less-than-fully-fit Pulisic would be a significant setback for Milan’s Scudetto push, with little margin for error as Inter continue to build separation at the top of the table. Compounding the issue, Milan are dealing with multiple attacking concerns beyond the USMNT star.

Striker Niclas Füllkrug has been playing through a fracture in his right toe and, while available, is expected to be limited to a substitute role. Meanwhile, Rafael Leão continues to manage pubalgia, with his workload carefully monitored to avoid setbacks, leaving Nkunku as the only fully fit attacking option ahead of the trip to Bologna.

With Lionel Messi earning $12 million per year, questions rise over Rodrigo De Paul’s new deal at Inter Miami.

Lionel Messi has become the face of Major League Soccer since arriving in 2023, benefiting from a record-setting $12 million salary with Inter Miami. Now sharing the field with a close friend and Argentina national team teammate, comparisons have emerged between the No. 10’s wages and Rodrigo De Paul’s new deal following his departure from Atlético Madrid.

In a surprising move during the 2025 summer transfer window, Inter Miami completed the signing of Rodrigo De Paul, whose contract with Atlético Madrid was set to expire at the end of the season. Despite being a regular starter, the Colchoneros opted to move the Argentine midfielder, initially sending him to MLS on a six-month loan.

With Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba leaving the club, Inter Miami freed up both salary cap space and financial flexibility, and in December 2025 officially exercised the permanent transfer option on De Paul. The fee, €15 million (nearly $18 million), made him the second most expensive signings in MLS history.

Now officially part of Inter Miami, De Paul joins the club’s group of Designated Players alongside Messi and newly signed Germán Berterame from Monterrey. His contract runs through December 2029, meaning the midfielder will remain with the Herons regardless of Messi’s future, as the Argentine captain’s deal expires in December 2028.

Messi and De Paul’s salaries

According to the MLSPA salary guide published in 2025, Messi remains the league’s highest-paid player with a base salary of $12 million per season at Inter Miami. When endorsements and commercial partnerships are included, his total annual earnings rise to $20,446,667.

By contrast, the same salary guide lists De Paul well below Messi, with a base salary of $1.5 million. Including bonuses and additional compensation, his total earnings reach $3.62 million. While De Paul ranks second among Inter Miami players in overall pay, tied with Luis Suárez, he still trails Messi by a wide margin, according to figures compiled by Capology.

The difference is especially striking when compared to De Paul’s earnings in Spain. Per Capology, the midfielder earned a gross annual salary of €6.67 million (approximately $7.77 million) under the four-year contract he signed with Atlético Madrid in 2021, a significant drop from his current deal with the Herons.

Set to miss Al Nassr’s next game, Cristiano Ronaldo’s reasons for his growing discomfort with the Saudi Pro League have reportedly begun to emerge.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself in the spotlight at Al Nassr, not because of his on-field production, but due to reports surrounding a potential absence from the club’s next Saudi Pro League match. As tension and discomfort around the Portuguese star continue to build, the reasons behind his reported absence have begun to surface.

On Sunday, multiple Saudi outlets reported that Ronaldo is set to miss Al Nassr’s Matchday 20 clash against Al Riyadh on Monday, February 2. The news initially raised concerns about a possible injury, as no official explanation had been provided and the decision was attributed to head coach Jorge Jesus.

Shortly after, Fabrizio Romano clarified that Ronaldo’s absence is not related to any physical issue, nor to workload or fitness management. Early speculation suggested the move could be tied to preserving the forward for Friday’s high-profile matchup against Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad, but that explanation was also ruled out.

Ronaldo unhappy with Saudi PIF

According to A Bola, Ronaldo’s absence is instead a form of protest directed at Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The Portuguese outlet reports that the forward is dissatisfied with how the fund has managed Al Nassr over the past three years, particularly when compared to the treatment received by rival clubs under the same ownership umbrella.

Beyond concerns over overall investment, transfer activity has also become a point of frustration. Jorge Jesus recently acknowledged the club’s limited flexibility in the current window, noting that Al Nassr lack both available foreign-player slots and the financial capacity to make a major signing at this stage.

While Al Nassr have reportedly reached an agreement with Real Sociedad for Brazilian winger Wesley — a move that would eventually free up a roster spot — the only addition so far has been Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem. The lack of immediate reinforcements has only added to Ronaldo’s growing discomfort.

Another key factor involves the diminished roles of Ronaldo’s close allies within the club. Sporting director Simão Coutinho and CEO José Semedo reportedly had their powers frozen by the board, a decision that Ronaldo believes has negatively impacted the club’s direction and competitiveness.

Ronaldo has also taken note of what is perceived as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, a concern previously voiced publicly by Jorge Jesus. Recent developments, including Karim Benzema’s potential move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, have reinforced the belief that Al Hilal continue to outpace other PIF-backed clubs in both influence and ambition.

Ronaldo signed a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr in June 2025, even as the Saudi Pro League prepares for a broader reshaping next summer with several high-profile departures expected. His reported stance now represents a significant statement from the league’s most recognizable figure, with the consequences still to unfold.

As part of the new generation of young talents, Brazil and Real Madrid prospect Endrick revealed who his idol is between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have defined an entire generation of soccer players, delivering elite performances week after week while constantly rewriting the record books. As part of the next wave of young talent, Brazil and Real Madrid wonderkid Endrick has now revealed which of the two legends he considers his idol.

A product of Palmeiras’ academy, Endrick was signed by Real Madrid for €60 million at just 17 years old, widely viewed as one of the brightest prospects of his generation. With a contract tying him to Los Blancos through June 2030, the striker is now focused on earning his place in Europe during his current stint with Olympique Lyon.

In an interview with L’Equipe, Endrick made his admiration clear when discussing his role model: “Cristiano Ronaldo is my No. 1 idol. What I admire most is that at 40 years old, he’s still the hardest worker out of everyone else.“

In an era dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, it was the Portuguese superstar who left the deepest mark on Endrick, who also emphasized his identity as a true No. 9 despite debate over his position. “He’s close to retirement, but he’s still capable of playing for many more years. I hope he does,” the Brazilian stated.

Although he has not been included in Carlo Ancelotti’s most recent Brazil call-ups, Endrick remains hopeful of one day sharing the World Cup stage with his idol. “Play against Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup? Ah, that would be wonderful. I hope it happens — and that we win,” he added.

Endrick chasing a place at the World Cup

The 2025-26 season marked Endrick’s second year under contract with Real Madrid, but limited opportunities (just three appearances in the first six months) left him on the fringes of Brazil’s plans with the 2026 World Cup approaching. As a result, the striker sought a temporary move away, joining Lyon on a six-month loan deal after the French club paid $1.17 million to Madrid.

Speaking with the French outlet, Endrick explained how the move could help him fulfill his international ambitions. “I came here to be happy, to play. Going to the World Cup is a dream and, God willing, I will play in it. But here my mission is to play well, and if I do that at my club, I can earn a call-up to the national team,” he stated.

So far, the move has paid off. Endrick has appeared in four matches for Lyon, scoring four goals and adding one assist, while earning two MVP awards in victories. With Ancelotti’s backing for the move, the 18-year-old has put himself firmly back in the conversation for what could be his first World Cup appearance.

With uncertainty regarding Lionel Messi's presence in the 2026 World Cup, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano issued a 3-word answer on the Argentina captain's situation.

Lionel Messi has begun his preparation for the 2026 World Cup by taking part in Inter Miami’s early preseason friendlies, hoping to replicate Argentina’s triumph from 2022. With the forward still reluctant to fully confirm his participation as Argentina’s captain, head coach Javier Mascherano offered clarity on Messi’s situation.

Throughout 2025, questions directed at Argentina players and head coach Lionel Scaloni centered on whether Messi, who will turn 39 during the tournament, would take part in the World Cup. The responses followed a similar theme: the hope remains that he will be there, but the final decision rests entirely with Messi.

In a November 2025 interview with Sport, Messi addressed the topic directly, once again leaving his future open while outlining his conditions. “The World Cup and playing for the national team are special, especially after having won it. I don’t want to be a burden — I want to feel good physically and be sure that I can help and contribute to the group,” Messi stated.

After Saturday’s friendly against Atlético Nacional, Mascherano spoke with reporters in the mixed zone and was asked whether he sees Messi at the World Cup. “Yes, why not?” Mascherano replied, offering a brief but telling response regarding Messi’s presence at the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Mascherano was also asked how he plans to manage preparation with the World Cup taking place during the 2026 club season: “I like to stay close to the players and, above all, understand how they’re feeling. No one knows their body better than they do. Obviously, we have our methods and we monitor things as well to make suggestions, but in the end it has to be a two-way dialogue with the players to understand their sensations.”

The Inter Miami coach also shared his thoughts on Argentina’s chances at the World Cup. “Argentina will approach it in the best possible way because it has been competing at a very high level for a long time, it has extraordinary players, and as an Argentine, I hope our national team does really well,” Mascherano added, suggesting there are no obstacles for Messi to be part of Scaloni’s squad.

Mascherano on Messi’s limited preseason minutes

Inter Miami returned to action on January 24 with a 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru, followed by a 2-1 win over Atlético Nacional in Colombia last Saturday. In both matches, Messi was substituted in the second half, despite large crowds turning out to see him play.

Against Alianza Lima, Messi was replaced in the 63rd minute by Daniel Pinter with Inter Miami leading 2-0. In Colombia, he came off in the 76th minute for Santiago Morales, with fans in both stadiums hoping to see more minutes from the Argentine star.

Asked about Messi’s fitness and minute management, Mascherano emphasized caution: “I understand that people might get upset because Messi had to come off, but my responsibility is to take care of him first. That’s the reality. I have to think of him first, then the team, because he’s our most important player ahead of this season.

“He played 75 minutes, which is 15 minutes more than the previous match, and we’ll proceed gradually like this in the remaining games,” Mascherano concluded. Inter Miami will next travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador, to face Barcelona SC at Banco Pichincha Stadium, where Messi is expected to log additional minutes as he continues preparing for the World Cup.

After being spotted limping in the last game, head coach Jorge Jesus reportedly made a final decision on Cristiano Ronaldo's availability for Al Nassr's next game.

Cristiano Ronaldo raised concern during Al Nassr’s recent match against Al Kholood after the Portuguese star was seen limping both before and after the game. With the next Saudi Pro League fixture approaching, head coach Jorge Jesus has now reportedly made a key decision regarding Ronaldo’s availability.

According to Ali Alabdallah, Jorge Jesus has opted to rest Ronaldo for Monday’s Matchday 20 clash against Al Riyadh. It will mark the first time the Portuguese forward is left out of Al Nassr’s squad for a Saudi Pro League match.

Earlier this season, Jesus had already limited Ronaldo’s minutes in the opening AFC Champions League Two fixtures to avoid playing him every three or four days across competitions. With a crucial matchup against Al Ittihad looming, the Portuguese coach has decided to take a similar precaution in league play.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo injured?

Videos circulating on social media showing Ronaldo limping as he arrived at the stadium sparked concern over his fitness. With Jesus choosing to leave him out of the squad to rest, questions have naturally arisen about a possible injury to Al Nassr’s top scorer.

However, reports indicate the limping was not caused by a new issue, but rather by a chronic knee condition dating back to 2014. The injury has reportedly led to tendon wear and reduced elasticity, which occasionally affects Ronaldo’s movement.

Despite the discomfort, Ronaldo played until the 79th minute and scored a tap-in goal against Al Kholood, assisted by João Félix. His most recent injury-related absence came on May 16, 2025, when a muscle strain sidelined him for a league match against Al Taawoun.

With Ronaldo, who leads Al Nassr with 18 goals in 22 appearances this season, set to miss the match against Al Riyadh, attention now turns to Jesus’ lineup choices. Still, with a high-profile clash against Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad scheduled for Friday the 6th, the manager appears focused on ensuring Ronaldo is fully fit for a much tougher test.

Ahead of a key Saudi Pro League game, Cristiano Ronaldo will be facing a setback with an Al Nassr star sidelined after suffering an injury.

Cristiano Ronaldo is pushing Al Nassr back toward the top of the Saudi Pro League after an uneven start to 2026, with the team stringing together three straight wins. However, ahead of Friday’s match against Al Kholood, Ronaldo will be dealing with a squad setback after one of Al Nassr’s key players picked up an injury.

Absences have already proven costly for Al Nassr, who opened the season with a historic run of 10 consecutive league wins before injuries and international call-ups took their toll. Mohamed Simakan’s injury and Sadio Mané’s departure for the 2025 AFCON disrupted the team’s momentum, and now another setback has emerged.

According to Ariyadhiah, Marcelo Brozović will miss Matchday 19 against Al Kholood. The midfielder felt pain in his thigh early in Wednesday’s training session, prompting the club to decide on rest rather than risk further injury.

The Saudi outlet added that Brozović underwent medical tests on Thursday to assess his condition and potential return to training. After evaluation, the medical staff ruled him out for the match, with his recovery timeline yet to be determined.

As the team’s holding midfielder, Brozović has been a stabilizing presence since joining Al Nassr in 2023. In the 2025-26 campaign, he has recorded one goal and four assists in 23 appearances, making his absence a significant blow as Ronaldo looks to close the gap at the top of the SPL standings.

Al Nassr face another midfield challenge

With Simakan sidelined earlier in the season, Al Nassr’s defensive solidity suffered, conceding as many goals during his absence as they had previously allowed across the campaign. Although the French center back has returned, replacing Brozović now presents a fresh test for head coach Jorge Jesus.

The Croatian has already missed two league matches this season, one through injury and another due to yellow-card accumulation. In those games, a 2-0 road win over Al Hazem and a 3-2 victory against Al Shabab on January 17, Jesus opted for a double-pivot setup featuring Angelo and Abdullah Al Khaibari, both of whom performed reliably.

However, Al Khaibari is suspended for the clash with Al Kholood after accumulating yellow cards. That leaves Ali Al Hassan as the likely replacement, despite having logged just 440 minutes across 22 appearances this season, a risky call at a moment when Al Nassr can ill afford to drop points.

With the expectations set to reach his first World Cup final in 2026, Lamine Yamal dismissed Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when picking the soccer legend he'd like to face.

Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of the brightest young stars not only at FC Barcelona, but also with the Spain national team, which currently sits atop the FIFA rankings and is among the early favorites for the 2026 World Cup. Looking ahead to a hypothetical final, the 18-year-old surprisingly set aside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in favor of another soccer legend as his preferred opponent.

Despite frequent comparisons to Messi due to his La Masia background and profile as a left-footed right winger, Yamal has repeatedly stated that Neymar was his childhood idol. During his vacation in June 2025, the Barcelona star even traveled to Brazil, where he had the opportunity to meet the Brazilian forward in person.

In an interview with TNT Sports Brasil following Barcelona’s Champions League match against Copenhagen on Wednesday, Yamal reflected on his trip to South America: “I liked many things and I’ll definitely be back. I spoke with Neymar to see when we can go again, but overall I enjoyed it a lot.“

The Barça winger also revealed that he spoke with Neymar via FaceTime just days before the Copenhagen match, during which the two made an eye-catching promise. “I told Neymar that if we both made it to the World Cup final, we would go on vacation together,” Yamal admitted.

Although Neymar has yet to return to the Brazil national team following his ACL injury in 2023, both players remain confident not only about his comeback, but also about reaching the tournament’s biggest stage. “So hopefully it’s Spain against Brazil,” concluded Yamal, who celebrated his 2-1 goal against Copenhagen with a tribute to his idol.

With Spain drawn into Group H (alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay) and Brazil placed in Group C (with Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland), the two sides would be positioned on opposite ends of the knockout bracket if they top their groups. That setup would leave the door open for a Spain–Brazil final in the United States, and for Yamal and Neymar to potentially fulfill their promise.

Three finals against the three legends?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have defined the 21st century and are widely considered among the greatest players in the sport’s history, while Neymar has long been viewed as the closest contemporary to their level. At just 18, Yamal could find himself facing all three legends in finals, even as they approach the twilight of their careers.

Yamal has already appeared in a final against Ronaldo, losing the 2025 UEFA Nations League final to Portugal on penalties after a 2–2 draw through extra time. On March 27, the Barcelona prodigy is also set to face Messi for the first time in the Finalissima against Argentina. That leaves a hypothetical World Cup final against Neymar’s Brazil as the final piece, one that would see Yamal face all three icons in championship matches early in his career.

When picking the USA player to impress at the 2026 World Cup, a USMNT legend snubbed Christian Pulisic from his list.

Christian Pulisic wrote the best start to a season of his career, raising expectations around the U.S. men’s national team with the 2026 World Cup set to be played on North American soil. However, with less than six months until the tournament begins, a USMNT legend looked past the Milan star when naming the American player he believes will impress the most.

One of the trailblazers for American players reaching top European leagues, particularly the Premier League, was Brad Friedel. The former goalkeeper spent more than a decade with the national team, earning 82 caps, a total that interestingly puts him alongside Pulisic on the all-time list. Still, Friedel did not include the forward among his players to watch.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Friedel was asked which USMNT player would stand out at the World Cup, and the former goalkeeper offered a direct answer: “My favorite player with the US, and it has been since I was the under-19 national team coach, is Weston McKennie. He didn’t have his best time at Leeds — I think it’s well-documented why — but as far as talent, this kid is amazing.

“He has it all. If he is focused and prepared and fit, he’s excellent,” Friedel added. Beyond the Juventus midfielder, he also highlighted other key contributors in the squad. “I really like him and Tyler Adams playing together in the middle of midfield. Chris Richards has also really improved over the last year and when I say improved, he’s become a leader,” the former Tottenham Hotspur said.

“He’s become a really good player with Crystal Palace. I think we have one of the best left-backs in the entire tournament, Antonee Robinson. I think he’s outstanding. We do have a really competitive team,” Friedel continued, notably leaving Pulisic out of his list of potential breakout performers.

The former keeper concluded by pointing to the collective identity built under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, suggesting the team no longer revolves around one star: “We have some good players. You need those X-factor players at the end of it. We’re more of a team rather than individuals that are going to set the world alight.“

Could Pulisic return to form for the 2026 World Cup?

Pulisic’s 2025-26 season has been a mix of highs and lows, both with AC Milan and the national team. At the international level, the winger missed the CONCACAF Gold Cup before returning against South Korea, Japan, Ecuador and Australia, the match in which he suffered a muscle injury that sidelined him for the November international window.

At club level, Pulisic emerged as one of Milan’s key players early in the season, enjoying the best start of his career and even sharing the top spot in the Serie A scoring race with Lautaro Martínez, despite playing significantly fewer minutes. However, fast-forward to 2026 and the American has struggled, failing to record a single goal contribution in Milan’s first six league matches of the year.

Injuries have once again interrupted Pulisic’s momentum, halting what had been a promising run of form. With just five months remaining before the World Cup kicks off, the focus now is on regaining full fitness and rhythm, as the USMNT will hope their most recognizable star can return to peak level and lead on the sport’s biggest stage.

The CAF has published sanctions stemming from the AFCON final, with Achraf Hakimi, Sadio Mané’s coach Pape Thiaw, and several players suspended, prompting questions about their status ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final delivered drama and controversy, ending with several Senegal players attempting to leave the pitch after a disputed penalty decision. With disciplinary sanctions now confirmed, Morocco and PSG star Achraf Hakimi, along with Sadio Mane‘s coach Pape Thiaw, have been suspended, raising questions about whether the fallout could affect their participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Eleven days after Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the AFCON final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued its ruling. Among the key decisions was the rejection of Morocco’s appeal to overturn the result, officially confirming Senegal as champions, though not without consequences for both sides.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was handed a five-match suspension and fined $100,000, having been deemed responsible for inciting his players to walk off the field following the referee’s late penalty call. CAF described his actions as “unsportsmanlike and damaging to the image of football.” On the player side, Mane‘s teammates, Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye and Crystal Palace’s Ismaïla Sarr were each suspended for two matches.

On the Moroccan side, captain Achraf Hakimi received a two-match suspension, with one of those matches still under review, also for “unsportsmanlike behavior.” PSV midfielder Ismael Saibari was hit with a three-game ban and a $100,000 fine, according to the CAF statement.

Both national federations were also penalized. Senegal’s federation was fined $615,000 due to the conduct of players, fans, and repeated disciplinary infractions throughout the final.

Morocco’s federation, meanwhile, was fined $315,000. CAF cited several violations, including ball boys withholding balls from Senegal players, the use of laser pointers from the stands, and an unauthorized intrusion into the VAR area.

What about the World Cup?

Following the AFCON final, both Senegal and Morocco are scheduled to play four more matches, two during the March international window and two additional fixtures ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, the new suspensions sparked concern over whether either team could be significantly weakened heading into the tournament in North America.

According to CAF’s official statement, all player suspensions and Thiaw’s ban apply exclusively to continental competitions and will not carry over to the World Cup. As a result, Hakimi, Senegal’s squad, and Thiaw himself will remain eligible to participate in the opening matches of the global tournament.

With Manchester City securing a spot in the top 8 in the UEFA Champions League table, head coach Pep Guardiola will be thanking Jose Mourinho after Benfica's win over Real Madrid.

José Mourinho emerged as one of the key figures of Matchday 8 in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, as Benfica stunned Real Madrid with a dramatic 4-2 stoppage-time victory. With Manchester City benefiting from the result to secure a top-eight finish, head coach Pep Guardiola admitted he would be thanking the Portuguese manager.

Entering the night in third place and led by tournament top scorer Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid traveled to Estádio da Luz as favorites against Benfica. The match began accordingly, with Mbappé opening the scoring, but the hosts responded with a spirited comeback.

Manchester City’s 2-0 win over Galatasaray lifted them into eighth place, the final spot for direct qualification to the Round of 16, but they needed Real Madrid to drop points to hold position. As the score sat at 3-2, Guardiola and his players were safe, but Benfica’s late push for a fourth goal kept City’s fate hanging in the balance.

Speaking in his postmatch press conference, Guardiola admitted confusion when Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin abandoned his goal to join the attack: “We were all there so we didn’t know Benfica needed a goal to qualify so when the goalkeeper goes up, we say, ‘why you go?’ because Madrid can equalise and we are out.”

Because of goal difference, Benfica needed a two-goal victory, a requirement Trubin fulfilled by scoring a last-second header to seal qualification to the Champions League playoffs. “But it was a good strategy from José to score the fourth goal, right?” Guardiola added with a smile.

Guardiola will now be thanking Mourinho

Long defined by their fierce rivalry and contrasting philosophies, Guardiola and Mourinho have shared one of soccer’s most iconic managerial duels. On this occasion, however, one directly helped the other extend his Champions League run.

Asked whether he would send Mourinho a thank-you message, Guardiola answered without hesitation. “Yeah, of course,” he said, underscoring the mutual respect that still exists between two of the most influential managers of the 21st century.

With Tomas Avilés now at CF Montreal and Sergio Reguilon injured, Lionel Messi could see a squad boost in defense as Inter Miami reportedly target an Argentine prospect.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are preparing for the 2026 season with ambitions of competing for every available trophy following their 2025 MLS Cup triumph. With Tomás Avilés departing the club and Sergio Reguilón sidelined by injury, the Herons have reportedly turned to an Argentine prospect to reinforce their defense.

During an aggressive winter transfer window that saw Inter Miami announce nine signings, Avilés became one of two Argentines to leave the club, alongside goalkeeper Óscar Ustari, joining CF Montréal on a one-year loan with a purchase option. His exit followed the arrival of Brazilian defender Micael, but Reguilón’s injury has since created a renewed need along the back line.

According to Argentine outlet DSports Radio, Inter Miami are targeting Tobías Ramírez of Argentinos Juniors. The 19-year-old center back featured at the U-20 World Cup, where Argentina reached the final, captaining the side in its opener, and has established himself as a regular at both club and international level.

With rosters confirmed for the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami listed six defenders for the competition: Gonzalo Luján, Sergio Reguilón, Tomás Avilés, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcón, and Ian Fray. However, with Reguilón sidelined by a Grade 2 knee sprain and Avilés already on loan in Montréal, a gap has opened in the defensive unit.

While Noah Allen and Gonzalo Luján are expected to cover left back, the vacancy shifts toward the center of defense. That role is likely to be filled initially by Micael, with Ramírez viewed as both a long-term investment and a player capable of contributing immediately on Messi’s squad.

Despite turning 19 last November, Ramírez has already made 43 appearances for Argentinos Juniors and 20 for Argentina’s U-20 national team. If the deal is completed, he would occupy the U22 Initiative slot vacated by Avilés, joining David Ayala and Mateo Silvetti in that category.

Inter Miami could face a tough challenge to secure Ramírez

Argentinos Juniors are widely regarded as one of Argentina’s top youth-producing clubs, consistently exporting talent both domestically and abroad. Negotiations, however, are often difficult, as Inter Miami previously paid around $8 million to sign Federico Redondo, and Ramírez is unlikely to come cheaply.

Transfer insider César Luis Merlo recently reported that Argentinos Juniors rejected a $3 million offer from Deportivo Alavés that included a 50 percent sell-on clause. That decision suggests Inter Miami would need to significantly improve their bid to complete a deal.

While Inter Miami have added several players on free transfers, including Dayne St. Clair, Facundo Mura, Luis Barraza, Micael, and Reguilón, they have also spent heavily in recent windows. With fees paid for Ayala ($2M), Tadeo Allende ($5M), and a reported €15 million obligation for Rodrigo De Paul following his loan, the club will need to balance ambition with financial caution.

Apart from N'golo Kante, Karim Benzema could also lose another star teammate at Al Ittihad amid the interest of a team playing in the Champions League.

Karim Benzema is witnessing a potential exodus at Al Ittihad, even as his own contract situation remains unresolved this season. With N’Golo Kanté reportedly close to an exit from Saudi Arabia, the former Ballon d’Or winner could soon see another star teammate leave during the winter transfer window to join a Champions League side.

With Benzema, Fabinho, and Kanté all out of contract at the end of the season, Al Ittihad are facing a major squad overhaul, highlighted by Kanté working toward a move away with Fenerbahce interested in his signature. Now, another European club is pushing to sign a French standout from the Saudi side.

Inter Milan are actively pursuing the signing of Moussa Diaby from Al Ittihad. First reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport and later confirmed by Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta, the Italian club are targeting the winger during the current winter window.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of Inter’s Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, Marotta addressed the negotiations and potential hurdles: “I can confirm that we’re in talks to sign Moussa Diaby from Al Ittihad. But as of today, it’s a remote possibility because he’s an important player for his club, and it would be a very expensive operation.“

According to the Italian outlet, Inter have already reached an agreement with Diaby on personal terms, leaving Al Ittihad to decide on the proposed offer of a loan through the end of the season with a €35 million purchase option. If the move goes through, Brazilian winger Luiz Henrique could depart the Nerazzurri amid interest from Bournemouth and Besiktas.

Since joining from Aston Villa in 2024 for €65 million, Diaby has made 52 appearances for Al Ittihad, scoring eight goals and providing 27 assists. After winning both the Saudi Pro League and Saudi Cup last season, he has posted three goals and 11 assists in 24 matches this campaign, and despite being a regular under head coach Sérgio Conceição, a return to Europe now appears possible.

Benzema also facing uncertainty at Al Ittihad

Currently sixth in the Saudi Pro League with 30 points from 17 matches, Al Ittihad have struggled to replicate last season’s success, with several stars increasingly focused on their futures. Benzema is no exception, as his time in Saudi Arabia appears to be nearing its end.

According to Ben Jacobs, Benzema asked to be left out of Thursday’s match against Al Fateh, a decision made unilaterally and not by Conceição. The move stems from unproductive contract extension talks with Al Ittihad, with the striker’s deal set to expire at the end of the season and reports linking him to a potential return to Europe.

With Lamine Yamal’s FC Barcelona in and Kylian Mbappé’s Real Madrid out, the teams qualified for the Round of 16 of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League have been determined.

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League league phase concluded Wednesday, determining which teams advanced, entered the playoff round, or were eliminated. Among the headline outcomes, Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona secured direct qualification, while Kylian Mbappé’s Real Madrid were forced into the playoffs.

In the second edition of the revamped Champions League format, eight teams qualified directly for the Round of 16, while those finishing between ninth and 24th will contest the playoff round and the remaining 12 were eliminated. Arsenal topped the table with a perfect eight wins, marking the first flawless league-phase campaign under the new format.

Four other English clubs joined the Gunners in the top eight: Liverpool (third), Tottenham Hotspur (fourth), Chelsea (sixth), and Manchester City (eighth). The remaining direct qualifiers were Bayern Munich (second), Barcelona (fifth), and Sporting CP (seventh).

Real Madrid forced to play the playoff round

Despite entering Matchday 8 in third place, Real Madrid dropped out of the top eight following a 4–2 loss to Benfica, sealed by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin’s stoppage-time header. Finishing with 15 points from eight matches, Mbappé’s side must now navigate two additional knockout games to reach the Round of 16.

Other high-profile teams headed for the playoff round include Atlético Madrid, Juventus, and last season’s finalists Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. Among the most notable eliminations are Italian champions Napoli, Spain’s Athletic Club, and France’s Olympique Marseille.

When and how will the Champions League playoffs be played?

The draw for the Champions League playoffs, which will determine the Round of 32 matchups, will take place on January 30 in Nyon, Switzerland. While pairings will be finalized then, several matchups are already restricted based on league-phase standings.

Final positioning is decisive under the current format, as teams are paired by finishing spots (9 and 10, 11 and 12, 13 and 14, and so on) and placed on opposite sides of the bracket, preventing them from meeting until the final. This structure directly shapes each club’s path through the knockout rounds.

As a result, each team will have two possible opponents, starting with the 23rd- and 24th-place finishers and working upward to the 17th and 18th. Unlike previous formats, clubs from the same country may now face each other from the knockout stage onward, and rematches from the league phase are also possible.

The playoffs will be played over consecutive weeks in February, with first legs scheduled for February 17 and 18 and return legs on February 24 and 25. A subsequent draw on February 27 will then integrate the playoff winners into the Round of 16.

With a last-minute header, goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin turned into Benfica's hero to avoid elimination from the UEFA Champions League in a 4-2 win over Real Madrid.

Benfica were on the brink of elimination from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, needing a two-goal victory against Real Madrid to survive. In the final play of the match, goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin became the unlikely hero, rising for a dramatic header to secure a playoff spot.

After five losses and just two wins in their first seven matches, Benfica entered the night in a precarious position, needing both three points and a significant goal-difference swing to climb into the top 24. The situation worsened early, as Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with a record-breaking Champions League goal.

Spurred on by the home crowd, Benfica responded through Andreas Schjelderup’s equalizer in the 36th minute, before Vangelis Pavlidis completed the turnaround from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time. Schjelderup added his second in the 54th minute, but Mbappé pulled one back four minutes later to make it 3-2.

With Bodø/Glimt’s stunning 2-1 win away at Atlético Madrid, Benfica still needed to surpass Olympique Marseille, who sat 24th on nine points with a minus-three goal difference. That left the Portuguese side requiring one more goal to avoid elimination.

GOAL!

WHAT A MOMENT FOR BENFICA GOALKEEPER ANATOLIY TRUBIN 😱#beINUCL #UCL pic.twitter.com/2BwcMHVUEb

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) January 28, 2026

Despite only five minutes of added time, a foul by Jude Bellingham on Fredrik Aursnes in the 97th minute gave Benfica one final opportunity. At José Mourinho’s urging, Trubin joined the attack, and on Aursnes’ delivery, the Ukrainian goalkeeper powered home the decisive header in the dying seconds.

Moments earlier, Trubin had absorbed a Real Madrid shot to the chest, briefly slowing play as Benfica desperately chased one final goal. As club legend and president Rui Costa and the Benfica board erupted in the stands, the goalkeeper etched his name into one of the club’s most dramatic European moments in recent years.

Benfica stun Real Madrid, drop them into Champions League playoff zone

With the league phase of the UEFA Champions League now complete, Benfica claimed the final playoff spot with their stunning victory. The result also came at Real Madrid’s expense, knocking the Spanish giants out of the top eight.

Entering Matchday 8 in third place, Real Madrid needed a win to secure direct qualification or a draw paired with favorable results elsewhere. Instead, Benfica’s 4–2 win, combined with Manchester City finishing eighth on 16 points, dropped Los Blancos to ninth, forcing them into the playoff round rather than a direct berth in the Round of 16.

With his goal against Benfica on Wednesday, Kylian Mbappé surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo's Champions League scoring record in the first phase of the competition after ten years on top.

Kylian Mbappé is enjoying a dream 2025-26 season in front of goal, putting himself on track for the most prolific scoring campaign of his career. With his strike against Benfica, the Real Madrid star surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for goals scored in the first phase of the UEFA Champions League.

Real Madrid traveled to Lisbon needing a result against Benfica to secure a place in the Round of 16 at Estádio da Luz. In a match filled with chances for both sides, including a penalty overturned for the hosts, Madrid were the first to break through.

In the 30th minute, Franco Mastantuono recycled possession to Raúl Asencio, who delivered a precise cross from the right flank. Mbappé slipped free at the edge of the six-yard box and powered home a header for the opening goal, a moment that will go down in Champions League history.

With the strike, Mbappé reached 12 goals in seven appearances during the competition’s first phase. The previous record belonged to Ronaldo, who scored 11 goals during the 2015-16 campaign with Real Madrid, a mark that stood for a decade, and with two goals, the Frenchman extended it to 13.

The milestone came one week after Mbappé recorded a brace against AS Monaco, a performance that saw him surpass Lionel Messi’s first-phase mark of 10 goals and draw level with Ronaldo at 11. The difference lies in format, as Ronaldo set his record in the old group-stage system with a maximum of six matches, while Mbappé reached his total in seven appearances after missing the Manchester City fixture.

The record underscores one of the most dominant scoring runs in Champions League history, with Mbappé averaging 1.85 goals per match. He now leads the competition’s Golden Boot race comfortably, with Harry Kane and Erling Haaland trailing as the closest challengers on seven goals apiece.

Mbappe with several goalscoring records within reach

According to a stat compiled by The Athletic’s Will Jeanes, Mbappé’s 12 Champions League goals would have been enough to finish as the competition’s top scorer in 62 of the previous 70 seasons. His brace against Benfica pushed that total to 13, bringing him within reach of multiple records beyond just the European stage.

Through the 2025-26 season, Mbappé has scored 36 goals, leaving him eight shy of the 44 he finished with last year. The difference is timing, as he still has 31 matches remaining to surpass that total, underscoring his remarkable scoring pace.

With an average of 1.85 goals per game in the Champions League, the record for most goals in a single campaign now appears within reach. If Real Madrid advance to the final and Mbappé maintains that rate across a possible 16 matches, he would finish with 29 goals, obliterating Cristiano Ronaldo’s single-season record of 17.

Still struggling to regain his top form due to injuries, Paul Pogba is reportedly facing another major career setback in his return to professional soccer with AS Monaco.

Paul Pogba emerged as one of the most closely watched players of the 2025-26 season, with AS Monaco banking on the midfielder to revive his professional career. Instead, persistent injury issues have become a major concern for both club and player, with Pogba now reportedly facing another significant setback.

In February 2024, Pogba was banned after testing positive for non-endogenous testosterone metabolites (DHEA), initially receiving a four-year suspension that was later reduced to 18 months. After the ban was lifted in early 2025, links to Inter Miami and D.C. United surfaced, but no MLS club pursued a move for a player lacking match fitness.

During the 2025 summer transfer window, Monaco approached Pogba with a two-year deal running through 2027, signaling confidence in his ability to return to the top level. That return has failed to materialize, with the midfielder logging just 30 minutes across three appearances this season.

A lack of fitness early in the campaign, followed by ankle, hamstring, and left calf injuries, has sidelined Pogba for 24 matches. Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro addressed the situation two weeks ago, saying, “The program and the plan for Paul is not working the way we expected in the beginning. He is very disturbed by the fact that he is struggling… (he wants) to be more available, to increase the minutes on the pitch.“

AS Monaco reportedly considering getting rid of Pogba

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, AS Monaco are exploring options to part ways with Paul Pogba. His return has fallen well short of expectations, and with only 30 minutes played all season, the club is reportedly open to moving on.

As reported by Capology, a site specializing in soccer finances, Pogba is currently Monaco’s fourth-highest-paid player, behind Denis Zakaria, Aleksandr Golovin, and Takumi Minamino. With a reported gross salary of $5.7 million per year and Monaco sitting 10th in Ligue 1, offloading Pogba could provide meaningful financial relief.

Pogba had already battled injuries in the years leading up to his suspension, managing just 10 appearances for Juventus during the 2022-23 season. Those issues have persisted in Monaco, prompting Scuro to leave his future open: “If it does not work, for sure the parties can sit down in the summer and try to have another discussion.”

With several months remaining in the 2025-26 season, Monaco remain hopeful of seeing Pogba return. “Where do we go? It’s not the moment to have this discussion because we are engaged on trying to find the solution and bring him back,” Scuro said, but without a dramatic turnaround, Pogba’s time at the club may be nearing its end ahead of the 2026–27 campaign.