Search has changed, and brands need to catch up fast, according to IBM’s Alexis Zamkow (global lead of Marketing Transformation solutions) and Sandhya Ranganathan Iyer (associate partner – AI), speaking yesterday at Adobe Summit.
AI tools don’t just help people search. They answer questions, compare products, and recommend brands. In many cases, users never even visit a website.
That means if your brand isn’t part of the AI-generated answer, you may not be part of the decision.
To keep up, brands need more than new tactics. They need a system — a GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) playbook. Here’s a recap of their presentation, Adapt or Disappear: How Brands Win with AI-Powered Search.
The AI shift: You’re marketing to machines
AI agents now sit between you and your customer.
They take a complex market and simplify it. They decide what information to show. And they often speak on your behalf.
“These machines are disintermediating the brand experience,” Zamkow said.
At the same time:
Consumers are using AI for research and decisions
Businesses are adopting it even faster
Many searches now end without a click
Zamkow said an estimated 75% of search visibility could shift to AI agents in the next two years.
That’s why visibility today depends on being part of the answer itself.
The GEO playbook: 12 components every brand needs
To respond, the speakers outlined a 12-part playbook. It spans content, technology, and operations.
1. Strategic content foundations
Your content must tell one clear story — everywhere.
That includes your website, PR, social, and third-party mentions. If each channel says something different, AI won’t trust your brand.
For example, if your site highlights premium quality, but reviews focus on low price, that mixed message weakens your authority.
Consistency builds trust for people and machines.
2. Retrieval-grade passage standards
AI doesn’t rank webpages. It extracts answers. So your content must be easy to extract.
Good content looks like:
Clear questions and answers.
Short, focused sections.
Direct language.
For example, instead of a long paragraph, write:
Question: What are the best running shoes for beginners?
Answer: A short, clear response
This makes it easier for AI to reuse your content in answers.
3. Technical foundations
Even great content won’t work if AI can’t read it.
Machines rely on:
Clean HTML (not just visual design)
Structured data (schema, metadata)
Pages that load content directly
One example from the session: a beautiful website appeared to AI as “a headline and a blank page.”
If your content isn’t readable, it won’t be used.
4. On-site search + genAI search alignment
Start with your own site.
If your internal search — especially AI-powered search — works well, you’re already ahead.
Think of it this way: If your own system can’t find answers on your site, external AI tools won’t either
Strong internal search helps train your content for external visibility.
5. AI search citation qualification model
In GEO, the goal isn’t just to be mentioned. It’s to be cited.
Mentions mean you show up.
Citations mean AI trusts you.
AI looks for signals like:
Clear expertise.
Consistent messaging.
Agreement across sources.
Zamkow called citations the “holy grail” of visibility.
6. Extraction optimization
AI tools pull content from many places and combine it.
To be included, your content must be:
Easy to extract.
Clearly structured.
Rich in context.
If your content is hard to break apart, AI will skip it and use something else.
7. Real estate: third-party strategy
Your website is no longer your main source of visibility.
85% of mentions come from external domains.
Third-party content drives most citations.
That includes:
Reddit
Social media
Reviews and forums
Media coverage
This means your PR and social teams are now critical to search success.
Your brand lives across the internet — not just on your site.
8. Measurement, KPIs, and reporting
Old metrics don’t tell the full story anymore.
Instead of just tracking clicks, you need to track:
How often AI mentions your brand.
Where you’re cited.
Which platforms show your content.
The key question changes from “Did we get traffic?” to “Did AI recommend us?”
9. SOPs (standard operating procedures)
Consistency doesn’t happen by accident. Teams need clear rules for:
How content is written.
How it is structured.
How it is published.
Without SOPs, different teams will create different formats. That confuses AI and weakens your visibility.
10. Prompting best practices
Search is now conversational.
While people still type keywords, they are increasingly describing their needs using more conversational language. For example:
Old search: “running shoes”
New search: “I’m training for a marathon. What shoes should I buy?”
Your content needs to match these types of questions.
That means thinking like the user — and writing like the answer.
11. Change management
This shift affects the whole organization.
Marketing, IT, PR, and product teams all play a role.
That means:
Training teams on new workflows.
Aligning goals and KPIs.
Breaking down silos.
This is bigger than just a marketing update. It’s a company-wide change.
12. Governance + versioning
GEO is never finished.
AI systems change constantly. Competitors update content. Rankings shift fast.
To keep up, brands need:
Ongoing monitoring.
Regular content updates.
Clear ownership of changes.
If your content becomes outdated, you can quickly lose your position in AI answers.
From SEO tactics to GEO systems
The GEO playbook reflects a larger change in how marketing works:
From keywords to prompts.
From links to citations.
From websites to ecosystems.
From traffic to answer eligibility.
From campaigns to continuous content.
The focus has shifted to building a system that consistently feeds AI the right information.
This is now a leadership issue
This shift is already reaching the top of the organization.
In one example, a product leader asked why their brand didn’t show up in an AI recommendation. The issue quickly escalated beyond marketing.
“This is not a problem for your SEO team,” Zamkow said. “This is at the CEO level.”
As AI becomes the front door to discovery, every leader will care about visibility.
Adapt or disappear
AI is already shaping how people discover and choose brands.
Consumers trust it. Businesses are using it. And it’s growing fast.
Brands that build and follow a clear GEO playbook — across all 12 components — will stay visible.
Leonardo Bonucci has proposed Pep Guardiola as the ideal head coach for the Italy national team after failing to qualify to the 2026 World Cup.
Leonardo Bonucci is one of the few prominent figures to have survived the sweeping exodus from the Italy Football Federation following the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. As the rebuilding process gets underway, the former captain has put forward Pep Guardiola as his dream candidate to take charge of the national team.
Having served as an assistant to coach Gennaro Gattuso within the Italy setup, Bonucci has retained his place on the federation’s staff. With the head coaching position now open, a number of names have been floated, including Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri, but none has generated more buzz than the possibility of landing Guardiola.
Speaking at the Laureus Awards Gala in Madrid, Bonucci was candid about his preferred choice to lead the rebuild. “Following the list of names mentioned in recent days, if there is a true desire to start from zero, I would start with the possibility of having Pep Guardiola,” he said.
Italy’s overhaul extends well beyond the coaching vacancy, with the resignation of federation president Gabriele Gravina setting the stage for a broader cultural reset within the national team program. “Having him would mean a radical change from everything that has happened. I think it’s very difficult, but dreaming right now costs nothing,” Bonucci added.
Leonardo Bonucci attends the Laureus World Sports Awards.
After a turbulent 2025-26 season at Manchester City, speculation has grown in recent months about whether Guardiola might leave the club before his contract expires in June 2027. While the Spaniard has previously expressed an interest in managing a national team, with City just three points behind Arsenal in the Premier League, only a dramatic shift in circumstances would likely prompt an early departure from Old Trafford.
Italy and the urgent need to bounce back
As a four-time World Cup champion, Italy has become the first former winner to miss three consecutive editions of the tournament, a sobering reality for one of the sport’s most storied nations. Having earned 121 caps, lifted the Euro 2020 trophy and captained the side following Giorgio Chiellini’s retirement, Bonucci believes the raw materials for a comeback are firmly in place.
Tasked with serving as a liaison in the scouting of young talents and players who could be called into the squad for the upcoming June fixtures, Bonucci believes in the talents the current squad has “We are lucky to have many high-level young players and others in full development. I believe that with Donnarumma, Tonali, Bastoni, Calafiori, Palestra, Pio Esposito and Scamacca, we have the necessary talent,” he said.
Despite missing the World Cup, Italy still has meaningful football ahead in 2026. Beginning in September and running through November, the Azzurri will compete in the UEFA Nations League group stage, having been drawn into Group A alongside France, Belgium and Turkey, a demanding group that will serve as an early test of the national team’s renewed ambitions.
Leonardo Bonucci of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match against Estonia.
With fitness and mentality both key priorities for the squad going forward, Bonucci also identified what he believes the current generation still lacks. “Compared to our squad that won the Euros five years ago, the current national team is undoubtedly superior in technique and talent. What is missing is a bit of development in leadership and personality, because in the most important matches, that is what makes the difference,” the former defender said.
Leonardo Bonucci (L) and Pep Guardiola (R), head coach of Manchester City.
After winning his second Laureus award, FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal hailed Lionel Messi among the greatest athletes in history.
Lamine Yamal‘s performances at the earliest stages of his professional career continue to capture the attention of the sporting world and its most prestigious award ceremonies. Now a two-time Laureus Award winner, the 18-year-old Barcelona star used the occasion to place Lionel Messi among the greatest athletes in the history of sport.
The Laureus World Sports Awards, which honor individuals and teams across a wide range of disciplines, held its 2026 edition with Yamal once again among the most prominent names on the night. This time, he was recognized with the Laureus World Young Sportsperson of the Year Award, presented by the Laureus Academy.
“I am very happy to be the first to receive this award for best young athlete. It is a source of pride,” Yamal said upon collecting the trophy, taking a moment to thank the Academy, the legends who voted for him, and his family and inner circle. He then turned his attention to the only soccer figure to have claimed the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award.
“When you realize an athlete isn’t just a legend of their sport but of all sports — Messi, who for me is the best player in history, and if he isn’t the greatest athlete ever, he’s definitely in that conversation with all of them,” Yamal said. The Argentine icon first claimed the World Sportsman of the Year in 2020, sharing the honor with Lewis Hamilton, before claiming it again in 2023 following Argentina’s World Cup triumph.
Barcelona Player, Lamine Yamal poses with the Laureus World Young Sportsperson of the Year Award.
Yamal also spoke to Messi’s status as a figure who transcends soccer altogether. “He’s more than an idol. I think everyone respects him for everything he’s done. He’s been part of the childhood of every kid when we played in the park or at school, and I hope I’ll be able to follow in his footsteps,” the teenager said.
Yamal’s second Laureus Award
After helping Barcelona claim La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa del Rey in 2025 while playing a pivotal role in the club’s UEFA Champions League run, Lamine Yamal earned another nod from the Laureus Academy. It was not his first time on that stage, however, as the Spanish teenager had already made history at the ceremony the year prior.
For his starring role in leading Spain to victory at Euro 2024, Yamal was named Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year, an award that reflected the immediacy and magnitude of his impact on soccer and the broader sporting landscape. Since the award’s first edition in 2000, only Jude Bellingham had previously claimed it as a soccer player, in 2024, with Yamal following in his footsteps just one year later.
With two Laureus Awards now in his collection, Yamal closed with a forward-looking message about what the recognition means to him. “I am grateful that my contributions to our team in 2025 are being recognized with this Laureus. I believe that sport has the power to change the world. This statuette represents a new generation of athletes who can bring about that change. I am proud to be the first to receive this Laureus,” he concluded.
Lamine Yamal (L) of FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi (R) #10 of Inter Miami CF.
After his performance against the Colorado Rapids, Inter Miami star Lionel Messi claimed the 14th MLS Player of the Matchday honor in his career, moving second in the scoreboard with only Landon Donovan at the top.
Lionel Messi has made a habit of rewriting the record books since arriving in Major League Soccer, and his latest performance for Inter Miami added another milestone to an already remarkable list. With his 14th Player of the Matchday honor now in hand, Messi sits second on the all-time list, trailing only league legend Landon Donovan.
Following that standout display, Messi was named MLS Player of the Matchday for the 14th time in his career, while also earning a place in the Team of the Matchday. It marked the second time this season he has claimed the honor, having previously won it on Matchday 2 after another brace, that one against Orlando City.
No player has come close to matching Messi’s rate of recognition since his arrival in the league. His 14 Player of the Matchday awards have come across just 60 MLS appearances, meaning he has claimed the honor in nearly a quarter of every eligible game he has played since joining Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF.
Those 14 recognitions place Messi in a tie for second on the all-time list alongside Columbus Crew legend Jeff Cunningham, with only Landon Donovan ahead of them, having claimed the honor a record 19 times.
Could Messi surpass Donovan in 2026?
While Cunningham and Donovan each spent more than a decade in MLS, Messi has matched Cunningham’s career total in fewer than three seasons, a testament to the extraordinary consistency he has brought to the league. With 14 awards to his name, the question now is whether the Argentine can chase down Donovan’s record of 19 before the 2026 season is out.
The numbers suggest it is far from out of reach. Since his first full MLS season in 2024, Messi has claimed six Player of the Matchday awards in back-to-back campaigns, finishing 2025 with 12 total and becoming the first player in league history to achieve that feat in consecutive seasons.
It is also worth noting that the most games Messi has played in a single MLS regular season was 28, in the 2025 campaign. With the league running through Matchday 36 and Messi currently averaging roughly two honors every four games, picking up five more before the season closes is a realistic, if demanding, target, and one that would rewrite yet another chapter of MLS history.
Lionel Messi (L) #10 of Inter Miami and Landon Donovan (R).
During the Steam Medieval Fest, buying Kingdom Come: Deliverance will contribute $1 towards the preservation of its iconic Pirkštejn Castle in real life.
After Real Madrid’s disappointing season, Álvaro Arbeloa’s future at the club appears to be uncertain. In response, José Mourinho emerges as a clear candidate to lead the team. However, the Portuguese has reportedly not been contacted by Los Blancos.
Real Madrid are not enjoying a strong season, sitting nine points behind Barcelona in LaLiga and already eliminated from the Champions League. As a result, Álvaro Arbeloa’s future is reportedly in doubt, as he has not managed to get the most out of the squad. In this context, José Mourinho has emerged as a strong candidate to take over next season. However, the Portuguese manager has reportedly not been contacted by Los Blancos.
According to Manuel Bruna, via Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid already approached José Mourinho in December 2025, when they dismissed Xabi Alonso, seeking for him to take charge of the team. However, he rejected the proposal, focusing on finishing the season with Benfica. Following their Champions League elimination, Arbeloa’s future is now in doubt, with the Portuguese manager once again emerging as a real option for the summer of 2026.
Far from being a certainty, Los Blancos have not yet contacted Mourinho again, raising doubts about whether it is a concrete possibility. Nevertheless, the veteran coach would be open to listening to a potential proposal from Real Madrid, as he maintains an excellent relationship with president Florentino Pérez. Additionally, the Portuguese’s return does not generate full consensus within the front office, which further complicates his potential arrival.
With a few months still ahead, Real Madrid may still be considering the possibility of reaching an agreement with Mourinho, hoping he can turn the team’s fortunes around. Furthermore, his experience is key, as Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa failed to impress due to their youth and lack of experience. However, the Portuguese coach is under contract with SL Benfica until June 2027, so his departure could prove somewhat complicated.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, speaks to Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica.
Report: Real Madrid coaching shortlist led by Pochettino and Deschamps
Despite his short time at Real Madrid, Álvaro Arbeloa is reportedly highly appreciated by the squad, who support his continuity. However, The Athletic claims that the Spaniard will be dismissed at the end of the season. In response, Los Blancos are reportedly considering Mauricio Pochettino and Didier Deschamps as clear candidates to take over the head coach position for the 2026–27 season.
According to Mario Cortegana, via The Athletic, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino is highly regarded by Real Madrid’s front office. In addition, president Florentino Pérez greatly admires him, and with his contract set to expire after the 2026 World Cup. Alongside the Argentine, Didier Deschamps is also highly valued for his excellent impact with France and his vast experience in managing strong personalities within the dressing room.
Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League.
Dominik Szoboszlai has managed to establish as one of Liverpool’s most important players, leading the scoring and defensive side. As a result, the Reds have made his renewal a priority for the project’s development. However, the Hungarian has provided a concerning update about his future.
In the middle of Liverpool’s disastrous season, Dominik Szoboszlai has emerged as the most important player on the team. Not only does he shine on a creative level, but also on a defensive level. Because of this, the Reds have made his renewal a priority to secure his continuity amid Mohamed Salah’s departure. However, Dominik broke the silence about his future, leaving some worrying statements.
“There has been no real progression, so I cannot say anything new about my contract situation… As you guys know, my contract ends in 2028, so I am ready to go every day, every week, and then let’s see… Of course I see myself here in the long term, but it is not really in my hands any more… I love being here. I love the fans… We have five games to go. Then I am going to rest – a big one, after my international break. Then we will see,” Szoboszlai said after the latest game.
While Dominik Szoboszlai is an attacking midfielder, he has also played as a right-back, central midfielder, and even as a right winger, excelling in all of them. In 48 matches this season, the Hungarian has recorded 12 goals and 9 assists. As a result, he stands as the team’s second-highest scorer, alongside Mohamed Salah, and the second-highest assist provider, highlighting his significant impact at Liverpool.
Dominik Szoboszlai may be tempted to join Real Madrid
Throughout his professional career, Dominik Szoboszlai has consistently been monitored by Real Madrid, being regarded as a game-changing player. While the Hungarian is currently a Liverpool star, Los Blancos are reportedly keeping a close eye on his contractual situation, considering him as a potential signing. In addition, Hungary’s head coach, Marco Rossi, acknowledged that the 25-year-old star has a dream of playing for the Spanish side.
“Due to the very close and direct relationship I have with Dominik Szoboszlai since he started playing soccer as a child, Real Madrid has always been his dream. Dominik, since he began playing soccer, has had only one dream: to play for Real Madrid,” Marco Rossi revealed a few months ago. With this in mind, Los Blancos could have an advantage in persuading the Hungarian in the event of a potential transfer.
Holding a contract until 2028, Liverpool have a significant advantage in securing his continued tenure, potentially offering him a key role in the roster and a substantial salary boost. With Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Guler in the mix, the 25-year-old midfielder might not play a pivotal role within that group, a position he nearly secures with the Reds. For this reason, Dominik might opt to renew his contract in the coming months.
Dominik Szoboszlai of Liverpool speaks to the media.
Carlo Ancelotti has been handed with a significant boost at the Brazil national team as Estevao is reportedly expected to fully recover from his injury prior to the 2026 World Cup.
Carlo Ancelotti is entering the final stretch of solidifying Brazil’s 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup, with the tournament now less than two months away. In a major boost for the Italian head coach, reports indicate that Estevao is expected to recover in time to participate in the summer showcase.
Alarms went off last Saturday during Chelsea’s clash with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge when Estevao was forced off in the 16th minute with muscular discomfort in his right leg. While the injury sparked immediate fears that the 18-year-old might miss the World Cup, those concerns have largely been dismissed.
According to Cahe Mota of Globo Esporte, Estevao is expected to return to the pitch before Ancelotti names his final squad. Medical tests performed Sunday revealed a right thigh injury that should sideline the winger for only 15 to 20 days.
The update has provided much-needed relief, particularly given Estevao’s recent history with similar ailments. The teenager dealt with a nearly identical injury to his left thigh that kept him out of action for a month between February and March, missing Brazil‘s last two friendlies against France and Croatia.
Estevao of Chelsea reacts with an injury during the game against Manchester United.
Reports from the Brazilian outlet suggest the initial sensation was more akin to a severe cramp than a significant tear, though the winger will still undergo a formal rehabilitation process. Both Chelsea and the Brazilian medical departments are closely monitoring the situation alongside Ancelotti’s staff.
Given the 20-day timeline, Estevao will miss several key fixtures for Chelsea before Ancelotti announces his roster on May 18 in Rio de Janeiro. He is expected to sit out matches against Brighton, a FA Cup semifinal against Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and Liverpool, with a potential return targeted for May 17 against Tottenham.
Estevao: The breakout star of the Ancelotti era
Carlo Ancelotti took over the Brazilian national team at a crossroads as the federation struggled to reclaim its world-dominant status while navigating Neymar’s long-term injury absence. While the search for a creative centerpiece continues, Estevao has emerged as the most prolific figure of the Italian’s tenure.
Estevao has appeared in seven matches under Ancelotti, totaling 417 minutes and netting five goals at a remarkable rate of one every 83 minutes. That production makes the 18-year-old the leading scorer of the Ancelotti era, a staggering achievement for a squad that features established superstars like Vinicius Junior and Raphinha.
Estevao (L) of Chelsea and Carlo Ancelotti (R), Head Coach of Brazil.
The ID@Xbox and IGN April 2026 Showcase has been announced, and will bring Xbox and PC gamers a closer look at new indie games on the way later this week.
After being eliminated from the Champions League, Real Madrid are heading toward a disastrous season. In response, Álvaro Arbeloa has pointed out a “problem” for Los Blancos, revealing that the Champions League is easier for them than LaLiga, while also placing some blame on refereeing decisions.
Real Madrid have not managed to regain the dominance they enjoyed under Carlo Ancelotti or Zinedine Zidane. Not only have they been eliminated from the Champions League, but they also sit nine points behind Barcelona in the league. Following this, Álvaro Arbeloa has pointed out a major “problem” for Los Blancos, revealing that winning the Champions League is easier for them than LaLiga, while also placing some blame on refereeing decisions.
“We certainly have room for improvement in La Liga in recent years. In these past few months, I think we’ve performed better in the big, difficult games than against lesser opponents,”Arbeloa said after the latest game. He then delved deeper into the struggles with referees: “But we’ve also experienced situations like [the penalty appeal] in the Girona game, which make it easier for Real Madrid to win a Champions League than La Liga.“
Over the past few seasons, Real Madrid have firmly established as one of the most dominant teams in the Champions League. Not only do they consistently reach the latter stages, but they have also won the title multiple times in recent years. Despite this, they have struggled to win LaLiga, often being outperformed by Barcelona. Beyond any claims of refereeing errors, this highlights a clear issue for Los Blancos: A lack of consistency.
Since the 2004–05 season, Real Madrid have won the league title on 7 occasions, with their most recent triumph coming in the 2023–24 campaign. In contrast, Barcelona hold a clear edge, having accumulated 12 LaLiga titles, including several consecutive wins that underline their dominance. As a competition that rewards consistency over the course of a season, Los Blancos have fallen short in securing it, despite later shining in the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid is seen during the UEFA Champions League.
Real Madrid slump continue as another trophyless season looms
Real Madrid are not going through one of the best periods in their history. While they began the season with high ambitions, the dismissal of Xabi Alonso and their exit from the Champions League completely defined their campaign. Moreover, they are no longer in contention to win LaLiga, as Barcelona have emerged as the leaders. As a result, they are now heading toward a second consecutive season without winning any titles.
With limited chances of winning LaLiga, Los Blancos are approaching a second consecutive season without titles, something that has not happened since the 2004–05 and 2005–06 seasons. In response, Arbeloa was highly critical: “Real Madrid is a club where things usually go well. The mentality of this club is always to look to the future. At Real Madrid, losing isn’t acceptable… We have to win our seven remaining matches,” he said after the latest game.
While Álvaro Arbeloa blames refereeing mistakes, Los Blancos face a harsh reality: they need radical changes within the team. Winning the Champions League is not the only objective—they must also compete consistently in LaLiga, something they clearly need to improve. With a managerial change all but certain, they are aiming to start fresh and seek to establish dominance in the league as well.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, reacts during the UEFA Champions League.
Cristiano Ronaldo has reached the milestone of 100 wins at Al Nassr in a span of 141 games, but the record he achieved at Real Madrid remains at the top.
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again led Al Nassr to an international semifinal in a prolific 2025-26 campaign where victories have become the standard. During an ongoing 18-game winning streak, Ronaldo reached 100 wins with the Saudi side in 141 games, though he remains well off the pace of his record-setting tenure at Real Madrid.
After arriving in Madrid in 2009, Ronaldo reached the 100-win milestone in just 127 games, 14 matches faster than his pace at Al Nassr. To put his Real Madrid dominance into perspective, the Portuguese icon collected all three points in 79% of his first 127 matches, a testament to his immediate impact on the pitch.
Ronaldo’s pursuit of 100 wins across different clubs
While his 100-win pace with Al Nassr fell short of his Real Madrid mark, it now ranks as the second-fastest century of victories in his legendary career. Third on the list is his tenure at Manchester United, where he reached 100 wins in 168 games, followed closely by his record with the Portugal national team at 169 matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrating.
The only two stops where Ronaldo did not reach the century mark are Sporting CP and Juventus. He appeared in only 31 games for his boyhood club, securing 13 wins, while he fell just short of the milestone with the Vecchia Signora by recording 91 wins in 134 appearances.
Ronaldo and Al Nassr’s prolific 2025-26 season
The current success serves as a major turnaround after a disappointing previous season where the team faded in the title race and suffered a heartbreaking exit in the AFC Champions League Elite semifinals. The arrival of high-profile reinforcements and manager Jorge Jesus has provided a massive boost for Ronaldo during this 2025-26 campaign.
Al Nassr are currently enjoying the longest winning streak in Saudi Pro League history at 15 games, part of a season record that includes 24 wins, two draws, and four defeats across all competitions. With a win percentage of 80%, Ronaldo is currently maintaining his best win ratio since arriving in Riyadh as the club chases both domestic and international glory.
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Despite Bradley Barcola being one of PSG’s most important players, he is not fully certain about his future at the club. After reportedly pausing his contract renewal, the Frenchman has been offered to Barcelona as a marquee signing for the summer of 2026.
Bradley Barcola remains one of PSG’s most important players, being key both creatively and in front of goal. However, the Frenchman’s future at the club is not entirely clear, as he has paused his contract renewal following a recent change of agent. Given his uncertain situation, he has reportedly been offered to Barcelona in a multimillion-euro transfer for the summer of 2026 as a marquee signing.
According to Diario Sport, PSG are keeping Bradley Barcola’s contract renewal an absolute priority, as his current deal runs until June 2028. However, negotiations are not progressing smoothly, as the change of agent from Jorge Mendes to Moussa Sissoko, the same agent of Ousmane Dembélé, has slowed the process. Because of this, the Frenchman’s future at the club is not entirely secure, despite being a key player on the sporting side.
Looking for a new direction, his agent, Moussa Sissoko, has decided to offer him as a marquee signing to Barcelona, making it clear that there is an open door for a potential departure from PSG. In response, sporting director Deco keeps him high on his list of priorities, as his ability to perform on both wings is highly valued. However, the French side could demand at least €80 million for his transfer, something difficult for the Blaugrana, according to Diario Sport.
While Barcola is attracting interest in Barcelona, Moussa Sissoko is not an agent with strong relations with the club. After Dembélé’s departure, they were left quite dissatisfied with his handling of the situation, so this process could be approached with caution. As a result, the Blaugrana may look to avoid being used as leverage to increase his value and secure a renewal with PSG, something that has already happened on several occasions.
Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain in action during the UEFA Champions League.
Bradley Barcola may be an ideal fit for Liverpool
With Mohamed Salah’s confirmed departure and Hugo Ekitike’s serious injury, Liverpoolurgently need to bring in attacking reinforcements for the 2026-27 season. With this in mind, they are reportedly targeting Yan Diomande as a marquee signing, but his arrival appears complicated. Because of this, Bradley Barcola’s contractual situation could facilitate his move, as he would be an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s team.
According to CaughtOffSide, the Reds are closely monitoring Barcola’s situation and are prepared to pursue his signing. A quick, dribbling, and highly effective goal scorer, the Frenchman would be an ideal replacement for Salah. In addition, he could fit alongside Diomande, as he is capable of playing on both wings, which would add valuable versatility to the squad. If he continues to reject a renewal with PSG, the Reds could make him a priority.
Not only Liverpool are pursuing his signing, but also Arsenal. According to David Ornstein, the Gunners are also keeping the Frenchman as a priority for the summer of 2026, as he is seen as a game-changer. With this in mind, Bradley Barcola could either push PSG for a lucrative renewal or simply force his departure from the club.
Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates scoring a goal.
With his contract expiring in June 2026, Ibrahima Konaté had emerged as a target for Real Madrid. However, the French defender now appears to be moving away from the Spanish side, acknowledging that he is close to renewing his contract with Liverpool after several months of speculation.
Ibrahima Konaté’s future has been one of the longest-running storylines at Liverpool this season. With his contract expiring in June 2026, he emerged as a target for Real Madrid as a potential free transfer reinforcement. However, the Frenchman now appears to be moving away from the Spanish side. Instead, the 26-year-old center-back has acknowledged that he is close to renewing with the Reds, effectively putting an end to speculation about his future.
“There are many things people have said but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement. I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way. For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season…I’m waiting to sort the contract but when everything is sorted you will have to ask Richard what I said to him in September, November and he’s going to say something to make everyone quiet,” Konaté said, after the latest game.
With his contract renewal now quite close, Ibrahima Konaté is moving away from Real Madrid, who are reportedly searching for a reliable defender. While the Frenchman was considered a strong option, Los Blancos were not fully convinced by his high salary demands. In addition, the 26-year-old has established as a leader in defense alongside Virgil van Dijk, becoming a key figure for Arne Slot at Liverpool FC as they build for the future.
Following Konaté’s refusal, Real Madrid will be forced to look elsewhere, with Nico Schlotterbeck still on their radar. Despite recently renewing with Borussia Dortmund, the German reportedly has a €50–60M clause valid for both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Alongside him, the potential return of Jacobo Ramón or a move for Cristian Romero remain alternative options, further reducing the chances of Ibrahima’s arrival.
Warren Zaire-Emery of Paris Saint-Germain is tackled by Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool.
Ibrahima Konate lined up as Van Dijk’s successor at Liverpool
Liverpool are not experiencing their best season, having been eliminated from the UEFA Champions League and struggling in the Premier League. While Ibrahima Konaté has shown inconsistent performances at times, he has managed to regain form and has emerged as an undisputed starter for Arne Slot. Following progress in his contract renewal talks, the French defender is now seen as the long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.
While van Dijk is still an undisputed starter for the Reds, he is reportedly set to leave the club in 2027. As a result, Ibrahima Konaté is emerging as his successor in terms of leadership at the back, especially with young defenders like Giovanni Leoni and Jérémy Jacquet still developing, and Joe Gomez also expected to be sold. In addition, the Frenchman has proven to be one of the most impactful players in the squad, leaving the team in capable hands defensively.
Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool during the Premier League match.
Despite starting the season in strong form, Neymar Jr. has sparked a wave of criticism from fans in the team’s latest defeat following a controversial gesture. In response, the veteran took to social media to offer an explanation and deliver a strong critique.
After undergoing knee surgery in December 2025, Neymar Jr. appears to be gradually regaining full fitness with Santos FC, emerging as the team’s key creative force in attack. However, his side has struggled to impress, recently suffering a defeat to Fluminense FC, and following the match, the veteran faced heavy criticism from fans over a gesture, prompting him to respond on social media to explain the context and deliver a strong statement.
In the latest Santos FC defeat, Neymar did not have his best performance, being whistled by the fans after trying to dribble in the latest minutes instead of looking for a pass or a shoot. With this in mind, the veteran abandoned the field, scratching his ears, annoying fans that took this gesture in an aggressive way. In light of this, the 34-year-old star delivered an aggressive response on his social media.
Far from being a gesture directed at the fans, Neymar Jr. made it clear that he had no such intention while criticizing the relentless persecution. “The day has arrived when I have to explain an EAR SCRATCH! Folks, honestly, you’re going way too harsh and crossing the line… It’s just too sad to have to put up with this. No human being can take it,” the 34-year-old expressed, via X.
Neymar Jr. began the season in strong form with Santos FC, recording four goals and three assists in nine matches. He has also emerged as a creative leader, creating space and orchestrating the team’s attack, proving his importance beyond the statistics. However, the team has yet to fully find its rhythm, coming off a draw in the Copa Sudamericana and not yet competing for the league title.
Chegou o dia que eu tenho que explicar uma COÇADA DE ORELHA! Gente, sinceramente vocês estão pegando pesado demais e ultrapassando os limites … é triste demais ter que conviver com isso! Não tem ser humano que aguente 🤦🏽♂️ pic.twitter.com/QSUeLd8l1Z
Neymar Jr.’s battle to earn Brazil’s 2026 World Cup call-up
Since his return to Santos FC, Neymar Jr. has been pushing for a comeback with the Brazil, something that has yet to materialize under Carlo Ancelotti. With only a few months remaining before the 2026 World Cup, the veteran forward is still not part of the national team setup, while his physical condition continues to raise serious concerns. As a result, he has less than a month to secure his place, while the head coach is not entirely closed off to his return.
According to Brazilian media reports, Carlo Ancelotti already has his final squad list nearly complete for the upcoming tournament, with 24 of the 26 spots essentially decided. As a result, Neymar Jr. would have to compete with Endrick, Igor Thiago, and Lucas Paquetá for a place in the Brazil, making his situation quite complicated. However, the veteran has less than a month to make his case, with the final squad set to be announced on May 18.
Neymar of Santos reacts during a match between Santos and Fluminense.
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Rand Fishkin didn’t get into SEO because he saw the future.
He got into it because he had no choice.
In the early 2000s, Fishkin helped run a small web business with his mom in Seattle. They hired another company to do SEO until they couldn’t afford to pay them anymore.
That moment pushed him into search marketing. More than 20 years later, Fishkin has become one of the best-known voices in SEO — and one of Google’s biggest critics.
In this interview, he looks back at how search has changed, what went wrong, and what may happen next.
Early SEO was wild
SEO today can feel messy. But in the early days, it was even more chaotic.
“There was no social media,” is how Fishkin described that era, where forums like WebmasterWorld and Search Engine Watch were the center of the industry.
People shared tactics openly. Many of those tactics were risky. Buying links was common — and effective.
Fishkin did it, too. Then Google’s Matt Cutts called him out in public.
That moment changed how he approached SEO. He spent years focusing on “white hat” practices and following Google’s guidelines.
Looking back, though, Fishkin now questions whether that shift went too far. He believes Google’s own behavior over time has made those guidelines harder to trust.
The early industry wasn’t just chaotic — it was also full of strange and memorable moments. Fishkin recalled massive conference parties with huge budgets and over-the-top ideas, including a staged “retirement” of the Ask Jeeves mascot.
But what stood out most to him wasn’t the tactics or the parties.
“My favorite thing… is people,” he said, pointing to the relationships and friendships built over decades in search.
When Google stopped sending traffic
Many people think AI is the big turning point in search.
Fishkin says the shift started much earlier — around 2011.
That’s when the idea of “zero-click search” first appeared. Google began answering more queries directly on the results page instead of sending users to websites.
At first, it was small features like weather boxes and calculators.
Then it grew:
Around 2016–2017: nearly half of searches ended without a click
By 2018: more than half
Today: more than two-thirds
Fishkin emphasized that this trend didn’t start with AI — it has been building for more than a decade.
Publishers had a chance — and missed it
Fishkin believes publishers could have taken action early — but didn’t.
“The time to fight back… was 15 or 20 years ago,” he said.
In his view, large media companies should have worked together to push back against Google’s growing control. They could have demanded payment for content or limited how Google used it.
Instead, they allowed Google to crawl and use their content freely.
At the same time, Google expanded its influence through lobbying and policy.
“Publishers just missed that opportunity,” Fishkin said.
Now, he argues, the focus has to shift to adapting:
Build subscription businesses
Monetize attention, not just traffic
Learn how to operate within platform ecosystems
Some companies have already made that shift. Fishkin pointed to The New York Times as an example of a business evolving beyond traditional news consumption.
Did Google change?
Fishkin does not believe Google has become worse for users.
“If it was easier or better to search on Bing… people would go to those places,” he said.
But he does believe Google has become much harder for publishers and creators.
The change, he said, was gradual. As Google grew, went public, and aligned with investor expectations, its priorities shifted toward growth and revenue.
“They became the people that they spent time with,” Fishkin said.
The biggest AI mistake people make
Fishkin says most people misunderstand how AI works.
They treat AI answers like search results — consistent and reliable.
But they aren’t.
If you ask the same question multiple times, the answers can vary widely.
“You will get completely different answers. And if you do that 10 times, you will get 10 incredibly unique different answers,” he said.
His advice is simple: don’t rely on a single response. Ask multiple times and look for patterns. If the same answer shows up consistently, it’s more likely to be trustworthy.
This matters most for important decisions, like health or finance, where relying on one answer could be risky.
What he misses about the early days of SEO
Fishkin doesn’t miss a specific tactic or tool.
He misses the level of opportunity that existed in the early web.
Back then, smaller creators and independent sites had a better chance to succeed. Traffic was more evenly distributed.
“The world of clicks and traffic… was so… flat compared to… today,” he said.
What’s next?
Fishkin believes the future of media and search may look more like the past.
He expects a smaller number of powerful platforms to control most of the flow of information.
At the same time, individual creators will still produce much of the content — but within those systems.
believes there is only one correct answer when it comes to the greatest of all time. The debate over the best ever fighter is one that has raged on for decades, with Leonard’s name often mentioned by fans due to the incredible achievements from his own career. He won three titles in five divisions, and […]
With the team currently pushing for Champions League qualification, Christian Pulisic received a major boost as manager Massimiliano Allegri confirmed he will remain as head coach of AC Milan.
Christian Pulisic has endured a turbulent few weeks, marked not only by his own dip in form but also by persistent rumors surrounding manager Massimiliano Allegri. The situation finally appears to have stabilized as AC Milan push for a UEFA Champions League berth, with the Italian tactician officially confirming his commitment to the club.
However, during a post-match press conference following a narrow 1-0 away win over Hellas Verona, Allegri left no room for speculation when asked about his plans. “My thoughts are on Milan; we started a journey together and we will continue it together,” the Italian boss stated.
Sunday’s Matchday 33 victory snapped a two-game skid that saw Milan suffer back-to-back losses to Napoli (1-0) and Udinese (3-0), with the team currently sitting in second place with 66 points. While Inter Milan holds a commanding 12-point lead and could clinch the Scudetto as early as next week, the Rossoneri have pivoted their primary objective to securing a top-four finish and a return to Europe’s elite competition.
Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan celebrates scoring against Hellas Verona with Rafael Leao.
Allegri remained candid about Milan’s current state, acknowledging the team is far from its peak performance: “It was a complicated match because we were coming off two defeats, and because at this stage, there is much more pressure. We need to do better technically, but right now, we have to get straight to the point and bring home the results we need for the Champions League… This result doesn’t give us the guarantee of entering the Champions League, but we are quite a bit further ahead.“
Milan’s offensive struggles continue
Despite being in the hunt for the Serie A title for much of the 2025-26 campaign, the team has suffered a significant second-half regression. One of the most notable drop-offs has come from Pulisic himself who, after a blistering start that saw the USMNT star earn Player of the Month honors in September, his production has vanished in the new year; he has registered just one assist in 16 appearances during the 2026 calendar year.
Against Verona, Pulisic failed to record a single shot on target. Meanwhile, Rafael Leao, another superstar whose season has been hampered by injury, provided the crucial assist for Adrien Rabiot’s game-winner. Still, the statistics are alarming for Milan’s marquee duo: in 738 minutes played together, they have combined for just two goals, a damning lack of production for a pair expected to lead the Rossoneri frontline.
Speaking to SportMediaset, Allegri emphasized that injuries have taken a heavy toll on both playmakers: “Leao provided an assist. He did what he had to do, then I took him off because you can’t play with 12 players. Rafa has important qualities, so he must be decisive. Both he and Pulisic have had injuries this season. The important thing is to keep this attitude until the end.“
Christian Pulisic (L) and AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri (R).
FC Cincinnati are now facing obstacles to bring Neymar to the MLS as Santos executive director has addressed the intentions of the Brazilian side to renew the star's deal.
Neymar has been linked with a potential move to MLS, with FC Cincinnati taking initial steps to explore the viability of a deal. However, that path to the United States now faces additional obstacles, as Santos executive director Alexandre Mattos has publicly pushed for Neymar to extend his stay with the Brazilian club.
Speaking at a press conference following Sunday’s match against Fluminense, Mattos made the club’s intentions clear: “The contract runs until the end of the year. Neymar and everyone else are focused on getting Santos out of this situation as quickly as possible. We have to separate Neymar (the player) from NR (Neymar’s brand/company).”
Mattos also spoke to the dual value Neymar brings to the club, both as a player and as a global commercial force. “He does everything he can to be at his best on the pitch. And NR has helped us significantly with structural issues and sponsorships. We are trying to keep things moving forward. But it depends on results. Santos will always want Neymar because of everything he has done and continues to do,” Mattos added.
Neymar of Santos during the game against Fluminense.
While Neymar has indicated he intends to see out his current contract through December 2026, Santos are keen to open renewal talks sooner rather than later. “When he was sold to PSG, he said he would only go if they paid the youth club rights. And right now, he is trying to do what he wants most on the pitch. Together, we will do more and improve,” Mattos concluded.
That tension shows no sign of easing, with Santos enduring another difficult stretch in the league and hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone. The team was roundly booed by their own fans at Vila Belmiro following a 3-2 defeat to Fluminense, a result that left Santos in 15th place with 13 points from 12 games, just one point above the drop zone.
Adding fuel to the fire, cameras captured Neymar walking off the pitch with his hands covering his ears, a moment that quickly spread across social media and drew the ire of fans. Neymar then broke his silence with a pointed response. “The day has come where I actually have to explain scratching my ear. People, honestly, you are taking things way too far and crossing the line. It is so sad to have to live with this. No human being can put up with this,” he wrote.
Chegou o dia que eu tenho que explicar uma COÇADA DE ORELHA! Gente, sinceramente vocês estão pegando pesado demais e ultrapassando os limites … é triste demais ter que conviver com isso! Não tem ser humano que aguente 🤦🏽♂️ pic.twitter.com/QSUeLd8l1Z
To make matters worse, members of an organized supporters’ group invaded the Rei Pelé Training Center just two days ago to demand accountability from the coaching staff, the squad and Neymar himself. With tensions running high both on and off the pitch, serious questions remain over whether Neymar is truly comfortable enough in his current environment to commit to staying instead of joining the MLS, despite the wishes of the club’s leadership.
Currently in the semifinals, reports claim that Cristiano Ronaldo could end up lifting the AFC Champions League Two title if Al Nassr reach the final game.
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again led Al Nassr to another victory, this time guiding the club to the AFC Champions League Two semifinals in a competition that, while secondary in prestige, could still end a lengthy trophy drought. With just two wins standing between them and the title, reports have emerged that Ronaldo could lift the trophy on home soil if Al Nassr advance to the final.
On Sunday, Al Nassr dismantled UAE side Al Wasl 4-0 at Zabeel Stadium in Dubai in the quarterfinal round. Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Iñigo Martinez in the 24th, Abdulelah Al-Amri in the 26th and Sadio Mane in the 80th all added their names to the scoresheet, sending Al Nassr through to the semifinals, where they will face Qatari side Al Ahli of Doha.
According to a report from Asharq Al-Awsat, the Asian Football Confederation has designated Al Nassr as the host of the AFC Champions League Two final, scheduled for May 16. The match would be held at Al Awwal Park in Riyadh, but only on the condition that Al Nassr beat Al Ahli in the semifinal.
Should Al Ahli advance instead, the final would revert to Doha as originally planned. The semifinal between Ronaldo’s Al Nassr and Al Ahli is set to take place once again at Zabeel Stadium on Wednesday, April 22, in a single-leg format following the rescheduling imposed by the AFC.
Of the two remaining clubs from the western region of the AFC bracket, Al Nassr and Al Ahli are the last ones standing, while in the east, Gamba Osaka have already booked their place in the final, meaning the Japanese side will have to make the journey to the Middle East regardless of who they face.
Al Nassr keeping the double alive
With their next Saudi Pro League fixture against Al Ahli not until April 29, Al Nassr have been able to direct their full attention toward the AFC Champions League Two. Sunday’s match against Al Wasl was only Ronaldo’s second appearance in the competition this season, a calculated decision that reflects coach Jorge Jesus’ intention to push for the title on the continental stage.
Ronaldo’s goal against Al Wasl moved his career tally to 969, and Al Nassr’s winning streak shows no signs of slowing across all competitions. The club has now won 18 consecutive matches, 15 in the Saudi Pro League and three in the AFC Champions League Two, keeping alive the possibility of a historic double that has never been achieved in the club’s history.
Lionel Messi has already made an impact on social media less than a week after purchasing UE Cornella, pushing the club toward the top 10 most-followed teams in La Liga.
Lionel Messi‘s recent acquisition of UE Cornella has extended his influence well beyond the pitch, drawing widespread attention to the fifth-division club. One of the most striking consequences has played out in the digital space, with Cornella now closing in on the top 10 most-followed teams in La Liga on social media.
The news broke on Thursday, March 16, when Cornella released a statement confirming Messi’s takeover of the club. “With this operation, Messi strengthens his close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalunya,” part of the statement on the club’s official website read.
Before the announcement, Cornella’s Instagram account had amassed around 40,000 followers, a respectable figure for a fifth-tier side. In less than a week, however, that number had exploded past the half-million mark, with the account now sitting at 592,000 followers, more than ten times its pre-announcement total.
To put the scale of Messi’s digital impact into perspective, Cornella have already built a following larger than every club in the second tier and several teams currently competing in La Liga. The club has surpassed Deportivo Alaves (240K), Levante UD (371K), Rayo Vallecano (376K), Real Oviedo (388K), CA Osasuna (410K), Elche CF (472K), RCD Mallorca (489K), RCD Espanyol (549K) and even Getafe CF (565K), with only Celta de Vigo (669K) and Girona (1.1M) still ahead of them among the smaller La Liga clubs.
UE Cornella’s Instagram account.
Top 10 most-followed La Liga teams on Instagram
Real Madrid — 182M
Barcelona —147M
Atlético de Madrid — 18M
Sevilla — 3.6M
Real Betis — 3M
Villarreal — 1.7M
Valencia — 1.4M
Athletic Bilbao — 1.6M
Real Sociedad — 1.2M
Girona — 1.1M
Media setting their eyes on UE Cornella
With just three games remaining in the regular season and currently sitting thrid with 56 points in 31 games, Cornella are expected to push for automatic promotion and a jump to the fourth division. But Messi’s involvement has also made the club a subject of significant media interest.
In the first match played since the announcement, a 1-1 draw against Fundacio Esportiva Grama at the Nou Municipal de Cornella this past Sunday, the club saw a noticeable uptick in both attendance and press coverage. According to Mundo Deportivo, the number of accredited media outlets present rose from the usual three to 15, a vivid illustration of just how dramatically Messi’s name has transformed the profile of this small Catalan club.
Breaking the record previously set against LAFC, Lionel Messi has set another MLS attendance record in the game between Colorado Rapids and Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi was once again the center of attention on Saturday, both for his performance on the pitch and for drawing tens of thousands of fans to yet another away game, just as he did on Matchday 1 against LAFC. This time, the Inter Miami star helped set a new away attendance record in MLS history at Empower Field at Mile High against the Colorado Rapids.
To celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary, the Colorado Rapids relocated their home match against Inter Miami from Dick’s Sporting Goods Park to Empower Field at Mile High, the home of the NFL’s Denver Broncos and the Rapids’ former home ground. In a 3-2 result that featured a Messi brace, the Herons secured all three points, but the occasion was equally notable as another landmark moment in the league’s ongoing growth.
A record crowd was anticipated well ahead of kickoff, and the fans delivered, with 75,824 spectators filling Empower Field at Mile High to watch the Rapids take on Inter Miami. The figure stands as the largest attendance ever recorded at a Colorado Rapids home match and vaulted the game to second place on the all-time list of highest single-game attendances in MLS history.
In a notable subplot, the crowd also surpassed the record set earlier this season when LAFC relocated their home match against Inter Miami to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. That Son Heung-min vs. Lionel Messi showdown drew 75,673 fans, a mark that has now been bumped to third on the all-time list.
The figure also came remarkably close to the all-time attendance record at Empower Field at Mile High across all sports. That benchmark belongs to an NFL game between the Denver Broncos and the Green Bay Packers on October 29, 2007, when the Packers claimed a 19-13 victory in front of 77,160 fans, just over 1,300 more than the crowd that packed the stadium last weekend.
Messi drawing fans beyond traditional soccer venues
Empower Field at Mile High is the latest in a growing list of non-soccer venues that have hosted Inter Miami specifically to accommodate the surge in demand surrounding Messi. Several MLS clubs have already made stadium moves this season to maximize their opportunity to host the Argentine superstar.
Beyond Colorado and LAFC, D.C. United and New York City FC have also relocated their home matches against Inter Miami to larger venues. The Black-and-Red moved their game to M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens, drawing a crowd of 72,026, while New York City shifted their match to Yankee Stadium, which attracted 45,845 fans.
Top 5 highest single-game attendances in MLS history
According to MLS, the five largest crowds in the league’s history are as follows:
LA Galaxy vs. LAFC (July, 2023) — 82,110 fans
Colorado Rapids vs. Inter Miami (April, 2026) — 75,824 fans
LAFC vs. Inter Miami (February, 2026) — 75,673 fans
Charlotte FC vs. LA Galaxy (March, 2022) — 74,479 fans
Atlanta United vs. Portland Timbers (December, 2018) — 73,019 fans
With a 2-1 win obtained by Erling Haaland, questions now raise over what do Manchester City and Arsenal need to cling the Premier League.
Erling Haaland played the hero for Manchester City in a thrilling Sunday showdown against Arsenal, as the Sky Blues edged out a narrow 2-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium. With the title race now expected to be decided in the season’s closing weeks, the result has sharpened the question of exactly what each side needs to claim the 2025-26 Premier League crown.
The match was played at a breathless pace from the opening whistle, with Rayan Cherki breaking the deadlock in the 16th minute with a stunning solo effort, only for Gianluigi Donnarumma to fumble a routine clearance two minutes later, allowing Kai Havertz to pounce for the equalizer. City then took control in the 65th minute when Nico O’Riley delivered a precise cross from the left and Haaland met it first time to fire home the winner.
The victory has allowed Manchester City to close the gap at the top of the table and puts them firmly in contention to overtake Arsenal in the closing stretch. The Gunners currently lead with 70 points from 33 games and a goal difference of plus 37, while City sit second with 67 points from 32 games and a goal difference of plus 36, meaning they still have a game in hand.
What does Arsenal need to win the Premier League?
With five fixtures remaining, Arsenal‘s path to the title is straightforward in theory: win every game left and continue to build on their goal difference advantage. Their current points cushion is enough that a perfect run would make it mathematically impossible for City to overhaul them, effectively forcing the Citizens to win every remaining game of their own just to stay in contention.
Erling Haaland of Manchester City scores his team’s second goal against Arsenal.
The Gunners’ remaining schedule features home games against Newcastle United next week, Fulham on May 2 and Burnley on the 17th, with away trips to West Ham United on the 10th and Crystal Palace on the 24th. Positioned as heavy favorites in each of those contests against teams scattered across the lower half of the table, several of them battling relegation, Arsenal’s domestic schedule is as favorable as they could have hoped for.
The wildcard remains the toll that the UEFA Champions League will take on their league campaign. Unlike City, Arsenal face a semifinal against Atletico Madrid on April 29 and May 5, with the Fulham match sandwiched in between, leaving coach Mikel Arteta with a difficult balancing act between rotating the squad and pushing his starters to their limits.
What does Manchester City need to win the Premier League?
City’s game in hand gives them a route to drawing level with Arsenal on points, but the path ahead is considerably more demanding, with no shortage of challenging fixtures standing between them and the title.
Pep Guardiola’s side face a grueling run that includes a midweek trip to Burnley on April 22, followed by away games at Everton on May 4 and Bournemouth on the 17th, home fixtures against Brentford on the 9th and Crystal Palace on the 22nd, and a final-day home clash against Aston Villa on the 24th. On top of that, City are also in FA Cup semifinal action against Southampton on April 25, adding yet another fixture to an already demanding schedule.
The compressed run of games is partly a result of the Crystal Palace match being rescheduled from its original date of March 21. With the Carabao Cup final between City and Arsenal falling on March 22, the fixture had to be pushed back, leaving the Citizens with tighter turnarounds and less recovery time as the season reaches its climax.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, and Erling Haaland celebrating.
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra shines with a long-term update promise; however, this does not yet apply to all areas, as one important update is still missing.
Despite being under contract with SSC Napoli, Antonio Conte is moving closer to the Italy as a potential leader of the sporting project, as president Aurelio De Laurentiis is reportedly considering dismissing the veteran coach. As a result, he could edge closer to taking over the national team.
Antonio Conte has managed to impress with his performances at SSC Napoli, winning the 2025–26 Serie A and the 2025–26 Italian Super Cup. Following his impact, he has emerged as the favourite candidate to coach Italy amid their rebuilt. Despite having a contract until 2027, he is moving closer to the national team role, as president Aurelio De Laurentiis is reportedly considering dismissing him at the end of the season.
According to Paolo Bargiggia, via AreaNapoli, the future of Antonio Conte at SSC Napoli is not entirely secure, as president Aurelio De Laurentiis is not fully convinced by his performance this season. As a result, he is reportedly open to facilitating the coach’s departure to the Italy national team, as it would represent an ideal solution by avoiding the need to pay a costly dismissal.
Following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) is planning a significant overhaul of their project. In the search for a leader, Conte has emerged as a strong option, having previously managed the Azzurri and possessing extensive knowledge of Serie A. Additionally, Napoli would reportedly be willing to ease his exit—something that would not be the case with Massimiliano Allegri, who remains a key figure at AC Milan.
While Napoli have remained one of the top teams in Serie A, they have failed to get involved in the race for the league title. Trailing AC Milan by 12 points, they have yet to find their best form, highlighting the decline of Antonio Conte and his project. Furthermore, the Italian side is coming off a tough loss to Lazio, which exposed the team’s major problems and leaves Conte on the brink of leaving at the end of the season—either to another Italian club or out of a job.
Antonio Conte coach of Napoli reacts during the Serie A match.
Conte may be an immediate solution, but not an ideal one for Italy
After missing three consecutive World Cup editions, the Italy do not need continuity—they need a full reset. This means committing to younger players and driving a necessary generational overhaul to rebuild the national team. With that in mind, Antonio Conte may not be the ideal fit, as he represents more of a short-term solution for a project that requires a long-term vision and sustainable development.
Antonio Conte is one of Italy’s most successful coaches and a global figure in the sport. However, he is not typically known for investing in young players or long-term projects, having had short tenures at every team he has managed. As a result, players like Francesco Camarda, Pietro Comuzzo, Michael Kyode, Samuele Inacio, and others could be left out, cutting short their development, as he tends to rely on veteran, proven players.
In pursuit of a full rebuild, FIGC may need a more attack-minded coach who is willing to trust young players, making Pep Guardiola one of the most ideal candidates. Turning again to profiles like Roberto Mancini, Massimiliano Allegri, or Antonio Conte would mean continuing a sporting project that has not delivered results and clearly requires renewal—potentially representing a step backward rather than forward.
Napoli's coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match.
Colorado Rapids and Inter Miami CF face off in a competitive Major League Soccer matchday, both aiming to climb the standings. Just minutes into the game, Lionel Messi lead the victory with a key brace in the MLS clash.
Following the disappointing start of the 2026 MLS season, Javier Mascherano stepped down from Inter Miami, leaving head coach Guillermo Hoyos in charge of the team. Shortly after his departure, they now face Colorado Rapids, seeking a victory to end their negative run. While they have been dominated,Messi has already put them ahead, scoring a key penalty to open the scoring in the first minutes of the game.
After a foul on Yannick Bright, the Herons strongly appealed for a penalty, prompting the referee to consult VAR. Following the review, the foul was awarded inside the box, with Joshua Atencio shown a yellow card. Taking responsibility from the spot, Messi struck a well-placed shot to score the opening goal and give his side the early advantage, beating Colorado Rapids‘ Zack Steffen.
Despite trailing, Colorado Rapids have shown an impressive attacking presence, emerging as the more proactive side in possession and consistently posing a forward threat. They have applied a high press and demonstrated a well-developed connection. As a result, Inter Miami continue to struggle against an opponent that appears capable of finding an equalizer and exposing the team’s ongoing issues.
After conceding two goals to the Colorado Rapids in the second half, the Herons managed to turn the game around, thanks once again to Lionel Messi. Following a pass from Rodrigo De Paul from midfield, the veteran received the ball on the right wing, dribbled past three defenders, and fired a powerful shot past Zack Steffen once again.
Germán Berterame struggles to adapt with Messi at Inter Miami
At the start of 2026, Inter Miami CF pursued the signing of Germán Berterame, aiming for him to replace Luis Suárez in the short term. After paying €12.6M to CF Monterrey from Liga MX, the Mexican forward arrived in MLS with high expectations. While he managed to score an important header against Colorado Rapids, he has yet to fully adapt to playing alongside Lionel Messi, exposing a clear lack of understanding on the pitch.
Alongside Luis Suárez, Mateo Silvetti, and Tadeo Allende, Lionel Messi has developed strong on-field chemistry, showing fluidity and consistently creating space for one another. However, Germán Berterame has managed just two goals and one assist in 10 matches for Inter Miami CF, lacking a clear connection with the Argentine. As a result, he has struggled to find space and contribute to the team’s collective play.
Far from there being any issue between them, Lionel Messi has shown himself to be highly supportive of Germán Berterame, meaning their on-field connection could improve over time. After investing a significant fee in the Mexican, head coach Guillermo Hoyos now faces the key task of developing that chemistry and establishing them as the new attacking partnership, as Luis Suárez under contract only until December 2026 and expected to move on.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates scoring vs Colorado Rapids.
After Real Madrid’s disappointing season, Kylian Mbappé has received heavy criticism for failing to lead the team to success. Adding to this, 1998 World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit delivered a strong critique of the Frenchman, making clear the underlying issue within the dressing room.
Kylian Mbappé has enjoyed an outstanding individual season, scoring 40 goals and playing a key role in the attack. Despite this, Real Madrid endured a disappointing campaign, being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League and sitting second in LaLiga. In response, 1998 World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit has delivered a strong critique of the 27-year-old striker, highlighting what he sees as a growing problem within the dressing room.
“It’s not only Kylian Mbappé’s fault, but his arrival has filled the Real Madrid locker room with selfishness. It’s a fiasco, and time is running out for him,” Emmanuel Petit said, via RMC Sport. Moreover, he strongly criticizes Eduardo Camavinga, defending the French striker: “If someone has to be blamed, it’s him. His entrance was catastrophic. At that moment in the match, that red card is very harsh, but the referee is simply applying the rules.”
Far from blaming the lack of specific profiles in the squad, Emmanuel Petit made it clear that Real Madrid’s issues do not necessarily stem from the sporting side. Alongside these remarks, concerns over Vinícius Jr.’s contract renewal have also emerged, as he is reportedly seeking a salary equal to that of Kylian Mbappé. With this, and the reported dressing room tensions involving Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos seem to be facing a significant internal problem.
Despite these reported ego issues, Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. have made it clear on multiple occasions that there are no problems between them, even stating that they share a close relationship. However, Real Madrid’s inconsistent performances this season have raised serious concerns, with fans expressing worries that there is no collective identity, but rather a focus on individual priorities.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid in action during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Mbappé joined a Real Madrid team led by Vinícius Jr.
Real Madrid have managed to remain one of the best teams in the world, with Vinícius Jr. standing out as a difference-maker. The Brazilian has not only delivered in terms of goals, but has also been key in two UEFA Champions League titles. As a result, Kylian Mbappé’s arrival significantly shook up the squad, as the scoring responsibility and spotlight are now shared, forcing both players to adjust their roles on the pitch—something that has yet to fully click.
While Kylian Mbappé has thrived in his best goalscoring form, Vinícius Jr. has struggled to fully adapt, drawing criticism after managing just 17 goals—well below his peak level. Neither Xabi Alonso nor Álvaro Arbeloa have been able to properly integrate both players on the pitch, as when one shines, the other tends to fade into the background. Feeling that the system no longer benefits him, the Brazilian has already hinted that he is not entirely comfortable.
Real Madrid’s current problems may stem from the midfield
While many point to ego clashes and similar issues, Real Madrid could address their problems by reinforcing one key area: The midfield. Following the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, Los Blancos have lost structure in their play, leaving Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé at times looking disconnected on the pitch. As a result, they reportedly have a clear priority: Signing a controlling midfielder.
According to Francisco José Delgado via Cadena SER, Nico Paz will make a comeback to los Blancos, paying €9 million to Como 1907. While the Argentinean plays in a more offensive role, he could be a key to organize the game. To achieve that, los Blancos are reportedly open to sell Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos. For that reason, they could still chase another organizative reinforcement.
With a player capable of dictating the tempo, Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé could benefit significantly, as they would receive better service and more scoring opportunities. This would give Real Madrid a more structured style of play, helping them build a stronger on-field connection. A similar dynamic was seen with Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who thrived with a solid midfield supporting them.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid is seen during the UEFA Champions League.
Amid significant defensive issues, AC Milan are reportedly closing in on an agreement for Mario Gila from SS Lazio. However, they have also added Ousmane Diomandé to their list of priorities for the summer of 2026.
Following a season marked by inconsistency, AC Milan are looking to reinforce their squad to improve competitiveness. In that context, Mario Gila has emerged as a strong market opportunity, as he approaches the final year of his contract. The Spanish defender is now reportedly edging closer to the Rossoneri. However, Ousmane Diomandé has also been added to the list of priorities for the summer of 2026.
According to Daniele Longo, via Calciomercato, Igli Tare, sporting director of AC Milan, has reached a turning point in negotiations with SS Lazio for Mario Gila. After several months of talks, the Rossoneri have reached a verbal agreement with the Spanish defender, finalizing his salary and contract terms. While this brings his arrival closer, they still need to agree on a transfer fee with Lazio—something far from straightforward.
After impressing in Serie A, Gila has established as one of the league’s standout defenders, noted for his solidity and ability to build from the back. With a contract running until 2027, he could push for a move to AC Milan by refusing to renew and forcing a sale in the summer of 2026. As a result, he could join the Rossoneri for a fee in the €20–25M range, a relatively accessible price given his potential.
In their search for greater defensive consistency, the Rossoneri are not only targeting Mario Gila, but are also monitoring Ousmane Diomandé, according to Nicolò Schira. With a release clause of €80M, the Ivorian could be at the center of a major transfer, having emerged as one of the best young center-backs in the world. However, AC Milan would face strong competition from Arsenal FC, Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich.
Mario Gila of SS Lazio player of the match after the Serie A match.
AC Milan have yet to finalize Tomori’s contract extension
Since the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, the Rossoneri have managed to establish defensive consistency, relying on Fikayo Tomori as the experienced leader of the backline. As a result, the potential arrivals of Mario Gila or Ousmane Diomandé do not threaten the Englishman’s continuity. On the contrary, AC Milan must accelerate talks over a contract renewal for the 28-year-old defender, aiming to avoid his departure.
With a contract running until 2027, renewing Fikayo Tomori has become a priority for AC Milan, with the defender set to earn around €4M per season on a new deal until 2030. Although both parties reportedly reached an agreement months ago, it has yet to be officially announced, raising doubts among fans. As an undisputed starter under Massimiliano Allegri, his continuity is essential, given his role as the leader of the defense.
Mario Gila of SS Lazio and Ousmane Diomande of Sporting Clube de Portugal.
Amid a difficult season, Real Madrid are reportedly planning a managerial change, with Jürgen Klopp identified as a primary target. However, he appears to be moving away from Los Blancos, as he is reportedly prioritizing a move to Germany head coach spot in a potential post-2026 World Cup scenario.
Following their elimination from the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League, Real Madrid have reportedly decided to part ways with Álvaro Arbeloa at the end of the season. As a result, they have identified Jürgen Klopp as a leading candidate to take over. However, the veteran coach appears to be moving away from the Spanish side, as he is reportedly targeting the head coach role of the Germany in a potential post-2026 World Cup move.
As Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH, Jürgen Klopp has reportedly been enjoying the pace of his current role, which allows him more time for his private life. Despite this, the German remains a target for Real Madrid to take over as head coach for the 2026–27 season. However, they are said to want him to make the first move by offering himself to the club, which could ultimately distance him from the Spanish side and bring him closer to Germany.
According to José Félix Díaz, via Diario AS, Klopp is still considering a return to the dugout. While he remains on Real Madrid’s radar, his focus appears to be on Germany, with the ambition of eventually managing the national team as the ultimate goal of his career. Although Julian Nagelsmann currently holds that position, the outcome of the 2026 World Cup could shape his future and potentially open the door for Jürgen.
Following the victory in the 2014 edition, Germany have failed to get past the group stage in the next two World Cups, marking a historic disappointment. As a result, Julian Nagelsmann is under significant pressure, needing a strong World Cup performance or risk being dismissed. In that context, the option of Jürgen Klopp could gain traction, as he is already an established figure in the soccer history and could help steer the sporting project back on track.
Global Head of Soccer Jürgen Klopp looks on during his presentation.
Real Madrid reportedly consider alternatives to Klopp
Far from being a simple decision, Real Madrid face a difficult dilemma, as the players reportedly support the continuity of Álvaro Arbeloa. However, Mario Cortegana reports in The Athletic that only a miracle would keep him in the role, as the front office believes the squad has not been maximized. While Klopp is a top priority, bringing him on board doesn’t seem like an easy task. For this reason, they appear to already be looking for reliable alternatives.
According to El Mundo, Los Blancos already have a clear shortlist of candidates to take over the head coach role, built around a key premise: Experience and strong man-management skills. In that context, Lionel Scaloni emerges as a leading candidate, with his contract set to expire in December 2026. However, he is not the only option, as they are also considering Didier Deschamps, Mauricio Pochettino, and José Mourinho.
Jürgen Klopp attends the presentation of the MagentaTV team.
Adrien Rabiot has established as one of the best players at AC Milan, becoming an undisputed starter under head coach Massimiliano Allegri. Following his strong performances, the Frenchman was reportedly approached with an offer to join the Saudi Pro League.
Following the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, AC Milan secured the signing of Adrien Rabiot, who had been impressing at Olympique de Marseille. Under the Italian, the Frenchman rediscovered his best form, becoming a key figure for the Rossoneri throughout the season. As one of the team’s most important players, he was reportedly tempted to leave in the summer of 2026 after receiving a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League.
According to Nicolò Schira, via X, Adrien Rabiot has received a formal approach from the Saudi Pro League. In an effort to convince him to join, the Frenchman was offered a three-year contract with a very high salary—something the Rossoneri can not match. However, with a contract running until 2028 with AC Milan, he has decided to reject any offers, aiming to continue his tenure with the club.
As a central figure for Massimiliano Allegri, Rabiot has established as one of the most important players in the squad, alongside Luka Modrić. With 2,281 minutes played, the Frenchman is among the team’s most utilized players, playing a key role in orchestrating the attack. He has also contributed five goals and five assists. However, his impact goes beyond the statistics, as he has become an undisputed leader within the team.
While Adrien Rabiot has become a key figure for the Rossoneri, fans are still expecting a greater impact from him in the final third. As a box-to-box midfielder, he consistently gets into the box, but has yet to be truly decisive in terms of goalscoring. That said, it is not solely down to the player, as the squad as a whole has struggled to deliver a high-level attacking output. As a result, AC Milan are reportedly already preparing a key midfield reinforcement.
Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan
Report: AC Milan look to reinforce Rabiot with Leon Goretzka
At the start of the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri delivered a solid run of form, even reaching the top of Serie A. However, the drop in performance from Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão exposed the team’s overall level. Looking to strengthen Adrien Rabiot’s impact for next season, AC Milan are reportedly prioritizing the signing of Leon Goretzka, who could be an ideal complement to the squad.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has made the signing of Leon Goretzka his top priority. After offering him a €5M-per-season salary and a three-year contract, AC Milan are hoping to secure his arrival, viewing him as an experienced and reliable profile. However, the Rossoneri would likely need to qualify for the 2026–27 UEFA Champions League, as the German is keen to compete at the highest level.
With Goretzka’s potential arrival, Adrien Rabiot would gain stronger defensive support, allowing him greater freedom to express his attacking qualities. At the same time, the German midfielder also has the ability to contribute offensively, providing an additional threat in front of goal. Securing his addition to the squad could significantly boost Milan’s competitiveness, while also helping unlock the best version of Rabiot under Allegri.
Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match.
After the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, Inter Miami CF are going through a difficult season, leading to the departure of Javier Mascherano. Now backing head coach Guillermo Hoyos, they face Colorado Rapids, with fans closely monitoring the status of Lionel Messi.
Even though they are coming off a MLS title, Inter Miami CF are enduring a difficult season, as the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have proven challenging, ultimately leading to the departure of Javier Mascherano. Following this, they turned to Guillermo Hoyos as head coach, with his debut coming against Colorado Rapids. As a result, fans are closely monitoring the status of Lionel Messi.
According to José Armando Rodríguez, via X, Lionel Messi has traveled and trained normally with Inter Miami CF. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos will opt to start the Argentine, as the team is in need of a win following their last two draws in MLS. The Herons are not in their best form, so the veteran’s presence could serve as a turning point in their season to clinch a winning streak.
Alongside the Argentinean, German Berterame will start again in the lineup, having shined in the latest game. Nonetheless, Luis Suarez is well-rested and could provide a significant boost in front of goal, coming off bench. Meanwhile, coach Hoyos will continue to rely on Rodrigo De Paul as a key figure in midfield amid the team’s inconsistent performances.
Colorado Rapids are coming off an emphatic 6–2 victory over Houston Dynamo, providing a major boost as they look to build a winning streak in MLS. However, head coach Matt Wells faces a tough challenge, with Miguel Navarro, Theodore Ku-Dipietro, Reggie Cannon, and Connor Ronan all sidelined through injury. Despite these absences, they will look to Rafael Navarro to remain a difference-maker, as he comes in off an impressive brace.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami
Colorado Rapids lineups vs Inter Miami
Despite their strong form, Colorado Rapids will not have an easy matchup against Inter Miami CF, as Lionel Messi is capable of breaking down their defensive line. Nevertheless, the Rapids have shown they are one of the most dangerous attacking teams, with Paxten Aaronson and Rafael Navarro playing key roles. As a result, they will look to control the game and set the offensive tempo against the Herons’ vulnerable defense.
Considering this, Colorado Rapids will lineup as follows:
Heading into the match against Colorado Rapids, Inter Miami CF are dealing with key absences, as Sergio Reguilón and David Ayala are unavailable, while Tadeo Allende remains a doubt due to injury. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos has made many changes to the starting lineup, sticking closely to the setup from the previous match, with Lionel Messi and German Berterame expected to be key in securing the win.
With this in mind, the Herons will play as follows:
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The Eastern Conference’s No. 1 seed, the Detroit Pistons, will take on the eighth-seeded Orlando Magic in the first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs. It’s the first time these teams have squared off in the postseason since 2008. (I think Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson were literally in kindergarten during that series.)
Game 1: Sun., April 19, at Detroit (6:30 p.m., NBC) Game 2: Wed., April 22, at Detroit (7 p.m., ESPN) Game 3: Sat., April 25, at Orlando (1 p.m., Peacock) Game 4: Mon. April 27, at Orlando (time and network TBD) *Game 5: Wed., April 29, at Detroit (time and network TBD) *Game 6: Fri., May 1, at Orlando (time and network TBD) *Game 7: Sun., May 3, at Detroit (time and network TBD)
Just two seasons after winning 14 games and finishing with the NBA’s worst record, the Pistons went 60-22, leading the Eastern Conference nearly wire-to-wire. Detroit took the top spot in the East on Nov. 7 and never let it go, fueled to the top by All-Star play from point guard Cade Cunningham and center Jalen Duren — both of whom could wind up meriting All-NBA selections, now that Cunningham’s eligible — and an elite defense that’s been an absolute meat grinder to play against, night in and night out.
Detroit led the NBA in blocksandsteals, and tied for second in deflections — disruption, disruption, disruption. They also, it’s worth noting, finished dead last in opponent free-throw attempt rate, sending opponents to the charity stripe more often than any other team in the league — par for the course, considering how physically guys like Duren, Stewart, Ausar Thompson, Ron Holland and Javonte Green play at the point of attack.
That’s not a bug, though. It’s a feature — the distillation of an identity, the delivery and relentless repetition of a message: Playing against us is gonna be hard, every single possession, and it’s gonna friggin’ hurt.
It’s a mantra that kept Detroit on the right side of the scoreboard more than 70% of the time despite a below-average half-court offensive efficiency mark, despite finishing in the bottom-third of the league in 3-point makes, attempts and accuracy, and despite lacking a dependable source of shot creation outside of Cunningham … or, at least, appearing to lack one, right up until two-way revelation Daniss Jenkins averaged 16 points and seven dimes per game while shooting 41% from 3-point land after Cunningham suffered a collapsed lung.
That message, that mantra, that identity kept Detroit razor-sharp while Cunningham convalesced. Including the game when he sustained the injury five minutes into the opening quarter, the Pistons went 9-3 without their MVP-candidate point guard, outscoring their opponents by 10.1 points per 100 possessions, with two of their three losses coming in overtime.
The rest of the Pistons’ rotation just stepped up and kept rolling, locking up home-court advantage and setting the stage for what would be another historic breakthrough: Detroit’s first trip to the Finals since 2005.
What we know about the Magic
They’re capable of playing physical, aggressive, connected basketball. It just might take the threat of extinction to get it out of them.
Paolo Banchero steals the ball from Miles Bridges and scores the And-1 at the other end (with replays)
Two nights after looking like they’d very much like to end their next huddle with “1-2-3, Cancun,” the Magic came out for their second play-in game looking like they’d undergone a collective exorcism. Or, maybe, a factory reset — a hard reboot that returned them to the kind of hard-nosed squad that had finished second in the NBA in defensive efficiency in each of the last two seasons.
We hadn’t seen that version of the Magic much this season. We were supposed to see something even better — an iteration that married the elite stopping power of Jamahl Mosley’s previous squads with a revamped offense, one decongested and supercharged by the arrival of sharpshooter Desmond Bane.
The price Orlando paid for Bane — four first-round draft picks — was awfully dear. But if his high-volume, high-efficiency shooting and downhill driving game could help smooth out the rough edges of an often staid and stagnant offense, delivering an attack capable of propelling Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Co. past the first round for the first time, it’d be worth the hefty cost.
The good news: Bane largely did his job, averaging 20-4-4 on 48/39/91 shooting splits while leading the team in minutes and playing in all 82 games. Orlando’s offense improved by 4.4 points-per-100 year-over-year. The Magic scored like a near-league-average offense in Bane’s minutes — that might not sound like much, but considering “league-average” is a level they haven’t reached since Dwight Howard left, it kind of is — and actually looked damn good when Bane shared the floor with Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black in a three-guard alignment that blitzed opponents by nearly 14 points-per-100.
The bad news: That’s about all that really went right.
To top it all off, Banchero — the No. 1 overall pick, Rookie of the Year, All-Star, maxed-out cornerstone — largely underwhelmed, putting up nice counting stats (22.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game) but doing so while shooting just 50.7% on 2-pointers and 30.5% on 3-pointers, without making a significant defensive impact, and with the Magic posting a better point differential with him off the court than on it. (Again.)
It was all just so … uninspiring. It looked like things would end with an appropriately wearying fizzle, with Orlando losing to a Celtics team resting all of its starters in the regular-season finale before getting outclassed by a Sixers team without Joel Embiid in the first play-in game, with Banchero shooting 7-for-22 with six turnovers.
But then: the win over Charlotte, with Banchero taking the fight to the Hornets front line from the opening tip, with every Orlando defender pressuring the ball and nailing hair-on-fire rotations, and with a level of aggression and intention that so often seemed so lacking in Central Florida. It was a sight for sore eyes; more than that, it worked. It served as a reminder that, even if Mosley’s voice isn’t carrying quite like it used to, this team can summon something better than what we’ve seen.
The challenge now: doing it again, against the best team in the East.
Head-to-head
The two teams split the season series, 2-2.
Detroit took the first meeting back in October, hanging 135 points on a Magic team that stumbled out of the starting blocks behind double-doubles for Cunningham (30 points, 10 assists, six rebounds), Duren (21 points, 13 rebounds) and Thompson (12 points, 11 rebounds, six assists). Orlando returned serve a month later, eliminating the Pistons from NBA Cup group play with a 112-109 win that featured a picture-perfect intentional free-throw miss and rebound by Cunningham that would’ve led to a game-tying triple try by Duncan Robinson 3 … had Anthony Black not soared out to block the shot:
The Pistons scored a 106-92 win in March largely on the strength of their defense, holding Orlando to just 35 second-half points and 38% shooting for the game while forcing 19 Magic turnovers that led to 26 Piston points. Cunningham led the way with 29 points, 11 assists and six rebounds as Detroit cruised despite going just 4-for-30 from 3-point range — tied for the second-fewest long-distance connections in a victory by any team this season.
The Magic knotted things up in the final week of the season, as the Pistons came to town missing Cunningham, Stewart, Robinson, Tobias Harris and Caris LeVert, all but inviting their hosts to capitalize. Orlando obliged in a 123-107 win, led by 31 points on 16 shots from Banchero:
Injuries impacted the series some. Banchero missed one Magic win, while Cunningham and half the Pistons’ rotation missed the other. Black missed Detroit’s March win; Wagner missed the final two meetings, which the teams split.
Matchup to watch
How the Magic try to slow down Cade
Cunningham largely had his way with the Magic during the regular season, averaging 32.7 points, 10.7 assists and 8.3 rebounds in 37.7 minutes per game across three meetings with Orlando. His combination of size, strength, skill, vision and pace makes him an exceptionally tough cover for most teams, but Orlando doesn’t have a like-sized, just-right matchup for him.
He’s too big for Suggs and Bane, and too strong for the reedier Black. He’s too quick off the bounce for Banchero and Wagner, and too savvy at getting to his spots for youngsters like da Silva and rookie Noah Penda. Go over the top of his ball screens, and he’ll put you in jail, keeping you on his back as he either sprints to the rim, patiently surveys the scene in search of the best shot, or works his way into contact to draw a trip to the foul line. Go under them or leave your big in drop coverage — a reasonable enough ploy against a 34% 3-point shooter — and you still run the risk that he’ll just pull up and dot your eye with a 3.
Send help or crank up the heat by blitzing or trapping his pick-and-rolls, and he’ll beat you with the pass, threading the needle to a rolling big man or firing a skip across the court to a waiting shooter. Show him too much of any one coverage, and he’ll pick that lock in about two possessions, diagnosing how to get what he wants and dissecting you until he gets it.
Mosley might open the series looking to make Cunningham prove he’s all the way back from the collapsed lung; in a three-game end-of-season cameo, he shot just 8-for-25 outside the restricted area. If a week of practice and conditioning work has Cade back in form with a rediscovered rhythm, though, the Magic will need some fresh answers: Detroit scored 119.1 points-per-100 against them in Cunningham’s minutes, a rate that would‘ve ranked third in the league in offensive efficiency this season, dominating the run of play. Orlando can ill afford a similar command performance if it hopes to upset the No. 1 seed.
Key question
Can Orlando score enough to make this a series?
The version of the Magic we saw on Friday against Charlotte — one where Banchero, Wagner, Bane and Suggs are all getting downhill and touching the paint to create good looks and draw contact, where the bigs and wings are pounding the offensive glass — might have a shot. But that was predicated on Orlando showing up with the intent to bully a smaller, thinner, more finesse-oriented team. Detroit is … um … not that.
If the Pistons meet that level of force in kind without buckling, committing live-ball turnovers to fuel Orlando’s transition game and 24-second violations that limit their shots on goal, what else can the Magic turn to against Detroit? If they can’t out-physical the likes of Thompson, Cunningham, Harris, Holland and Co. on the perimeter, and if they find themselves running into the brick walls of Duren and Stewart at the cup, can they generate and knock down enough 3s to stay connected? (They shot just 30.9% from deep against Detroit as a team during the regular season.)
All season long, it’s felt like Orlando’s offense has amounted to less than the sum of its parts. If they can’t find a higher level of cohesion, and quick, that Detroit defense might just grind it into dust.
Prediction: Pistons in four
I was pleasantly surprised to see Orlando turn in such a spirited, pugnacious performance to survive the play-in. But I don’t think “we’re gonna rough you up” is going to work against a bigger, better bully — one that’s on a mission to earn the respect that seems to continue to elude it in the eyes of the broader basketball cognoscenti, no matter how many games it wins or how impressively it wins them. I think the Pistons make a statement, take care of business quickly, and then ask who’s next.
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Traffic from AI sources increased 393% year-over-year in Q1 and 269% in March. But the real surprise? AI traffic is converting better than last year.
AI-driven visits converted 42% better than non-AI traffic in March. A year ago, AI traffic was 38% less likely to result in a purchase.
By the numbers. Traffic from AI sources increased engagement by 12%, time on site by 48%, and pages per visit by 13%. Adobe also surveyed consumers and found that:
39% have used AI for shopping. Of those, 85% said it improved the experience.
66% believe AI tools provide accurate results.
What they’re saying. According to Vivek Pandya, director of Adobe Digital Insights:
“Notably, AI traffic continues to convert better (visits that result in purchases) than non-AI traffic, which covers channels such as paid search and email marketing.”
Yes, but. While consumer adoption is up, and traffic, engagement, and conversions are growing, many retail sites still aren’t fully optimized for AI visibility, especially on product pages, according to Adobe.
Why we care. Until now, reports have been mixed on whether AI traffic is better, equal to, or worse than organic search traffic (see our Dig deeper resources below). That may be changing, as we expected it would. Like generative AI, AI shopping today is as bad as it will ever be, meaning this channel’s value will only increase.
About the data. Adobe’s findings are based on direct transaction data from more than 1 trillion visits to U.S. retail websites. The company also surveyed more than 5,000 U.S. consumers to understand how they use AI to shop.
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After Al Nassr's last game, head coach Jorge Jesus explained that Cristiano Ronaldo's early exit to the locker room was due to star suffering from "stomach pains."
Cristiano Ronaldo has been the cornerstone of Al Nassr’s recent surge, but his blistering goalscoring streak came to a halt Wednesday against Al Ettifaq. Following a uncharacteristically quiet performance from the club’s captain, head coach Jorge Jesus revealed that Ronaldo’s abrupt exit to the locker room was the result of “stomach pains” the forward had been battling since before kickoff.
After returning from a hamstring injury in March, Ronaldo had been flawless, netting a brace against Al Najma and a clinical strike against Al Okhdood to keep Al Nassr’s title hopes alive. However, his impact against Al Ettifaq was far more subdued; despite registering seven shots, only two found the target, and he uncharacteristically squandered a golden opportunity in the 47th minute.
Ronaldo was eventually subbed off in the 89th minute for Abdullah Al-Hamdan, but rather than joining his teammates on the bench, the Portuguese icon headed straight down the tunnel. While his departure initially sparked speculation regarding his frustration with the substitution, Jorge Jesus was quick to clear the air during his post-match press conference.
When asked about his star player, the Portuguese manager admitted that Ronaldo was nearly omitted from the lineup entirely. “I considered leaving him out; he simply wasn’t in good shape,” Jesus said. “He was suffering from stomach pains and general fatigue. When I finally substituted him, he went straight to the dressing room and threw up.“
Jesus assured reporters that Ronaldo was recovering well after the match, explaining that his absence from the post-game celebrations following the 1-0 victory was simply because he was still indisposed. Although his scoring run has ended, the veteran striker is expected to be back in the selection for the club’s next fixture.
One step closer to the SPL title
Wednesday’s hard-fought victory moves Al Nassr within touching distance of the Saudi Pro League title. The club currently sits atop the table with 76 points through 29 matches, fueled by a staggering 15-game winning streak in league play. Al Hilal remains in second place with 68 points and a game in hand, but they now face a daunting eight-point mountain to climb.
Riding the momentum of 17 consecutive wins across all competitions, Jorge Jesus reflected on the culture shift he has implemented in his debut season. “Al Nassr are not used to competing for titles, but now the players feel they are close to winning the league. I have won 24 titles, so I consider myself among the best coaches in the world. We have a great feeling and sense that we’re close to the title, but our focus now is to take it one match at a time,” he stated.
Head coach Jorge Jesus (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Al Nassr.
Robert Lewandowski has had a disappointing season, losing his starting position at Barcelona and missing out on the 2026 World Cup. Following this, the Polish now faces one of the most important challenges of his career: Convincing the Blaugranas and securing his future.
Despite arriving in Barcelona as a seasoned veteran, Robert Lewandowski managed to put in an impressive performance in his first few seasons, scoring 42 goals last season and surpassing 25 goals in the two seasons prior. Despite this, the Polish striker is having a season to forget, missing out on the 2026 World Cup and raising serious doubts among the Blaugranas. As a result, he faces a tough challenge: convincing the Spanish side to keep him and securing his future.
Shortly after the start of the 2025–26 season, Robert Lewandowski suffered two muscle injuries that limited his impact at Barcelona. As a result, Ferran Torres took his starting spot, delivering strong performances. Beyond the injuries themselves, this situation highlights a growing concern: his declining physical output. While the Polish striker remains in good shape, Hansi Flick’s tactical system demands far more than just goals, something he has not been consistently providing.
Unlike his previous season, Robert Lewandowski has been far less productive in front of goal.In the 40 matches he has played this season, he has managed to score just 17 goals, marking his lowest scoring output since joining Barcelona. With his contract set to expire in June 2026, the Blaugranas are not fully convinced about renewing him, reportedly offering only a one-year extension with a reduced salary and a secondary role.
His struggles have not been limited to Barcelona, as Lewandowski has also failed to impress with Poland. Despite being an undisputed starter, the veteran was unable to make a decisive impact in the final stages of the World Cup qualifiers, going scoreless against Sweden and missing out on the 2026 edition, leaving him with just two World Cup appearances in his career.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona looks on from the bench.
Lewandowski disappointed with Poland in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Robert Lewandowski is one of the most important players in the history of Poland. After 165 appearances, he has scored 89 goals, making him the nation’s all-time leading scorer. He also ranks among the top five international goal scorers of all time, alongside players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Despite this, the 37-year-old striker did not deliver his best performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
During the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, Lewandowski set a historic record by scoring 16 goals in 10 matches. Far from slowing down in the 2022 edition, the Polish forward once again impressed, netting 9 goals in 9 games and leading his national team to the tournament. However, he was unable to replicate that level in the most recent campaign, producing a less effective return.
Unlike the previous two editions, Lewandowski managed just five goals in nine matches for Poland. While he has played a key role in creating space and assisting teammates, his goal output has dropped significantly. He also failed to score against Sweden in the play-off final, leaving his side without his usual scoring contribution and reflecting a difficult season in which he has struggled to find his best form.
Lewandowski no longer fits in at Barcelona under Flick
Hansi Flick has managed to establish a highly dominant style of play in Europe. Since his arrival in Barcelona, he has relied on intense high-pressing and pressure after turnover involving his forwards. As a result, the Blaugranas have excelled offensively, creating far more scoring opportunities. While Lewandowski performed brilliantly in the 2024-25 season, his physical condition has declined this season, making him less productive.
During the 2025–26 season, Robert Lewandowski has become a less effective goalscorer, though he has maintained his importance in overall play by drawing defenders and creating opportunities for his teammates. However, head coach Hansi Flick has a clear demand for his striker: high pressing and immediate pressure after losing possession. As a veteran forward, Lewandowski has struggled to meet those physical demands.
Given his declining goal output and high salary, Barcelona are reportedly no longer counting on him as an undisputed starter. Instead, they are pursuing the signing of a younger forward such as Julián Álvarez, prioritizing pressing, pace, scoring ability, and creativity. That said, the Polish striker could still play a key role off the bench, offering experience and finishing quality as a more traditional central striker.
Robert Lewandowski of Barcelona
With one of the highest salaries in the squad, Robert would need to significantly reduce his wages and accept a secondary role. While this scenario would be ideal for Barcelona, he could struggle to adapt to those conditions. In addition, he continues to attract strong interest from clubs that could offer him a more lucrative contract or a more prominent role. As a result, Lewandowski is not entirely open to staying at Barcelona, feeling neglected by the club, reports Nil Sola, via SER.
How has Lewandowski’s playing style changed compared to previous seasons?
Robert Lewandowski has gone through several distinct phases throughout his career. During his tenure at Borussia Dortmund, the Polish striker established himself as a brilliant forward, physically dominant and relentless in pressing defenders to score. While not yet a standout in collective play, he still managed to record 103 goals and 42 assists in 187 appearances, attracting interest from Real Madrid and several top European clubs.
With his move to Bayern Munich, Lewandowski underwent a clear evolution in his playing style. Under the influence of Pep Guardiola, he developed into one of the most complete strikers in the world. Not only did he excel as a goalscorer, but he also became fully integrated into the team’s collective play, frequently rotating positions with Thomas Müller. At the same time, he maintained his physical dominance, finishing his spell with 344 goals and 73 assists in 375 matches.
After his historic stint in Germany, Lewandowski chose to join FC Barcelona. Despite already being a veteran, he made an immediate impact under Xavi Hernández. Thanks to his game intelligence, he stood out by scoring 33 goals in his first season, playing a key role in creating space, pressing, and winning duels against defenders. However, he has since had to adapt his style, maintaining his importance while seeing a decline in pure scoring output.
Even though Lewandowski had previously scored 42 goals for Barcelona under Hansi Flick, he has shown a noticeable physical decline this season. As a result, he has shifted his focus toward drawing defenders and facilitating play for Fermín López and Lamine Yamal. In doing so, he has remained highly influential in the team’s overall structure, albeit with a reduced scoring role, particularly as he is no longer applies pressure on opponents.
Robert Lewandowski may be an ideal fit for AC Milan
Robert Lewandowski can still thrive in European leagues, and AC Milan could be an ideal fit. Arriving as a free agent, the Polish striker would suit head coach Massimiliano Allegri. Unlike Barcelona, the Rossoneri are looking for a forward capable of dominating aerially and positioning himself between opposing center-backs. While he is not coming off his best season, he could still fulfill the role required by the Italian side.
As a more traditional, fixed center-forward, Lewandowski could maintain solid output in Serie A. Without heavy creative or pressing responsibilities, he could preserve his physicality to outmuscle defenders and convert chances consistently. With his clinical finishing, he could become a key solution for Allegri, especially as a partnership with Christian Pulisic could significantly boost his goal production.
Compared to Christopher Nkunku and Rafael Leão, Lewandowski has consistently demonstrated elite scoring ability in recent seasons, comfortably surpassing 15 goals. He also offers a strong aerial presence, which could be decisive, particularly as Milan have relied on Adrien Rabiot in that aspect. In addition, his presence could create more space for Leão and Pulisic to operate more effectively.
While Lewandowski may no longer possess the physical profile to dominate in a high-intensity collective system, he remains highly effective as a fixed striker. Moreover, he could serve as an ideal mentor for Francesco Camarda, who could develop significantly as his backup—something the club does not currently get from options like Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Giménez.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona looks on as he warms up prior a game.
After being eliminated by Bayern Munich in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, Kylian Mbappe made a reassuring message to the fans that Real Madrid "will start winning again and very soon."
Kylian Mbappe’s dream of capturing a UEFA Champions League title has been deferred for at least another season following a quarterfinal exit at the hands of Bayern Munich. In the midst of what has been a frustrating campaign for Real Madrid, Mbappe delivered a defiant message to the fanbase, promising that the club “will start winning again soon.“
Wednesday’s elimination via a 6-4 aggregate scoreline served as a crushing blow for a Real Madrid side that had pinned its primary championship hopes on Europe, with Barcelona currently the heavy favorites to secure La Liga. Despite Mbappe netting the third goal for the Spanish giants, he was unable to stave off elimination in what was statistically his most prolific individual scoring campaign in the competition’s history.
In his first public comments following the defeat, Mbappe took to Instagram to offer a candid self-assessment of the team’s current form: “We tried until the very end, but it wasn’t enough. It’s disappointing to be eliminated from such an important competition, but we have to look ahead. We need to take a hard look at ourselves to avoid this kind of disappointment again.“
After that wake-up call to his teammates, the French striker made it clear that the club expects to be back in the trophy hunt sooner than later. “We will never give up!!! In Madrid, failure has never been and never will be an option. But I promise you one thing: we will start winning again and very soon,” Mbappe concluded.
Mbappe’s individual impact during the 2025-26 Champions League campaign was undeniable, as he racked up 15 goals in just 11 appearances. While he reached the 70-goal milestone for his UCL career, his individual brilliance couldn’t mask the team’s lack of cohesion, a process hindered by significant organizational turmoil, including the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso back in January.
Real Madrid and a 2025-26 season to forget
With 40 goals and six assists across 39 games so far, Kylian Mbappe has indisputably been the lone bright spot for Real Madrid this season. However, questions regarding the squad’s over-reliance on the star striker have intensified, casting a spotlight on the fact that despite a roster full of superstars, this iteration of Los Blancos has failed to gel as a collective unit.
The 2024-25 season, the final chapter of the Carlo Ancelotti era, saw the club lift the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup while falling short of major domestic and European honors. While the appointment of Xabi Alonso initially sparked hope during the FIFA Club World Cup, a crushing defeat in the Spanish Super Cup proved to be the tipping point that led to his midseason exit.
Real Madrid Castilla coach Alvaro Arbeloa stepped in to lead the first team but has struggled to stabilize the ship. Under his watch, the club suffered a shock Copa del Rey exit to second-tier Albacete and the recent Champions League heartbreak against Bayern.
Currently, La Liga is being dominated by Barcelona, sitting at the top with 79 points in 31 games and a 9-point difference to second-placed Real Madrid. With just seven games remaining, Los Merengues are on the verge of their first trophyless season since 2020-21, the final hallmark of a campaign the club would rather forget.
PIF has changed his involvement in soccer by completing the sell of Al Hilal to their new owners, a situation Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr are watching closely.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has taken significant new steps toward the privatization of Saudi Arabian soccer clubs. As Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr watch the next moves closely, the PIF has officially announced the sale of Al Hilal to a new ownership group.
As a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s “Sports Clubs Investment and Privatization Project,” the PIF became the majority shareholder of Al Hilal, alongside Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, in July 2023. This initial investment was designed to accelerate club growth and increase the sports sector’s overall contribution to the Saudi GDP.
A new strategy is now taking shape with the completion of the first of these four sales, as the PIF seeks to maximize returns and redeploy capital within the domestic economy. This gradual exit from majority ownership aims to guide the clubs toward financial sustainability while the PIF maintains a role as a minority shareholder or strategic partner.
PIF and Kingdom Holding Company’s representatives arrange deal over Al Hilal.
In a statement released on PIF’s website, KHC Chairman Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud reflected on the landmark deal: “Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people. This acquisition expresses our deep belief in the power of sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development. By applying our global investment standards and cultivating strategic partnerships, we will unlock Al-Hilal’s full potential while preserving its history and identity.“
Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad up next
Al Hilal represents only the first phase of this divestment process. Following this precedent, the PIF will move forward with the sales of Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli, seeking suitable suitors to continue the clubs’ professional development.
Reports have already revealed that, alongside a new contract signed in June 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a 15% ownership stake in Al Nassr valued at £50 million (approximately $66.7 million). As the PIF actively pursues new majority owners for the club, the Portuguese legend is positioned to assume an even more significant role in the organization.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Al Nassr is encouraging Ronaldo to increase his equity, further deepening his ties to the Saudi side’s ownership structure. With club sales expected to be phased over the coming years, the soccer icon could see his influence grow significantly in the near future.
Amid a difficult season, Virgil van Dijk has reportedly decided not to renew his contract with Liverpool FC, entering the final year of his deal. As a result, the Reds appear to be leading the race to sign Marcos Senesi as his short-term replacement in the squad.
Liverpool are facing one of their most difficult seasons in recent years. Not only are they not in contention to win the Premier League, but they were also eliminated from the UEFA Champions League. In addition, Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson have announced their departures. Adding further complications, Virgil van Dijk has reportedly decided not to renew his contract, forcing the club to pursue the signing of Marcos Senesi.
According to James Pearce, via The Athletic, Virgil van Dijk has decided not to renew his contract with Liverpool. Although he is an undisputed starter for head coach Arne Slot, the Dutch defender has decided to leave the team at the end of the 2026-27 season, as he has one year remaining on his contract. With this, the Reds could face significant uncertainty, as Joe Gomez’s contract also expires that same season and Ibrahima Konate has not yet renewed his contract.
Amid uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté, the Reds have already secured the signing of Jérémy Jacquet, paying €63.6M to Stade Rennes, with the defender joining Giovanni Leoni as part of the club’s future core. However, the potential departure of van Dijk has forced Liverpool to prioritize the signing of Marcos Senesi, leading the race for his signature ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United, according to Pete Hall and Mark Douglas via The iPaper.
At 28 years old and with four years of Premier League experience, Marcos Senesi would represent an immediate solution for the Reds. By securing his arrival, Liverpool FC would add one of the top left-footed defenders in England, who could benefit from a season alongside Virgil van Dijk to fully adapt to the team. Additionally, the Argentine could play a key role in allowing Giovanni Leoni time to develop, as both share a similar left-footed profile.
Marcos Senesi of Bournemouth holds of the challenge from Brentford’s Igor Thiago.
Virgil van Dijk’s departure could mark the end of an era at Liverpool
Following the arrival of Arne Slot, Liverpool have undergone a major squad rebuild, with the departures of Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez, and Trent Alexander-Arnold among the first. Far from ending there, Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson have also announced their exits at the end of the season, losing several key leaders. On top of that, the potential departures of Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker would mark the end of an era at the Reds.
With contracts running until 2027, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker are reportedly not expected to renew and could leave as free agents, meaning Liverpool FC would lose key figures from its leadership core. As a result, the Reds face the difficult challenge of replacing their on-field impact, with Giorgi Mamardashvili seen as the successor to the Brazilian, while Marcos Senesi could step in for the Dutchman.
Lionel Messi is at the center of a $7M breach of contract lawsuit against the Argentina FA following the star's absence from last year's friendly against Venezuela in the U.S.
Lionel Messi finds himself at the center of a new controversy surrounding the Argentina Football Association (AFA), this time involving a high-stakes legal dispute over the October international window. After the Inter Miami star failed to appear in a friendly against Venezuela, the AFA is now reportedly facing a $7 million lawsuit for breach of contract regarding matches scheduled on U.S. soil.
The dispute stems from an agreement with VID, a Miami-based events company, which allegedly paid $7 million in August for the exclusive rights to Argentina’s October friendlies. The world champions were originally slated to face Venezuela on October 10 and Puerto Rico on October 14.
However, the international break clashed with a pivotal stretch of the MLS season. With Inter Miami chasing the 2025 Supporters’ Shield, a match against Atlanta United was rescheduled for October 11. Despite being officially “ruled out due to injury” for the national team’s clash with Venezuela, Messi started for the Herons against Atlanta just one day later, netting a brace and adding an assist in a dominant performance.
While Messi eventually joined the national team to play the full 90 minutes in a 6-0 rout of Puerto Rico at Chase Stadium, the damage was already done. His absence from the Venezuela fixture, where he was spotted watching from a VIP suite with his family, reportedly led to disastrous financial consequences for VID, triggering the multi-million dollar legal action.
Lionel Messi of Argentina and his family attend the International Friendly against Venezuela.
AFA and the infringements of the original deal
According to local reports, the AFA and Messi are facing 10 different charges in the suit. A key stipulation in the contract, as reported by The Athletic, required Messi to play at least 30 minutes in both matches unless sidelined by a legitimate injury or illness, citing his massive commercial draw as the primary value of the deal.
The lack of star power for the Venezuela game resulted in a box-office catastrophe. Hard Rock Stadium saw a dismal turnout of approximately 15,000 fans, representing just 23% of the venue’s total capacity.
Furthermore, the relocation of the Puerto Rico match from Chicago to Miami reportedly dealt another financial blow to VID. The company claims it lost over $1.3 million in promotion and logistics costs for the original Chicago venue. Following the move to Chase Stadium, the promoters allege the AFA breached its contract by failing to refund a portion of the upfront payments as agreed upon.
In an attempt to salvage the partnership, reports suggest the AFA initially promised future U.S. matchups in June 2026 to compensate for the losses. However, those promises appear to have fallen through, and a third-party agent involved in the negotiations has also been accused of fraud.
The current counts against the AFA include negligent misrepresentation and multiple breaches of the $7 million contract. While the total damages sought by VID have not been fully disclosed, the company maintains that the fallout from the October window resulted in millions of dollars in lost revenue.
Although his start to the season was strong, Marcus Rashford’s drop in form at Barcelona has been significant, with the club reportedly deciding against signing him permanently. As a result, the Englishman is now open to a return to Manchester United, shifting his stance.
Despite his strong start at Barcelona, Marcus Rashford has experienced a noticeable dip in form during the second half of the season. With just 5 goals and 1 assist in 2026, the Englishman has become one of the most criticized players in the squad. After his underwhelming performance against Atlético Madrid, he may have effectively ended his chances of staying with the Blaugrana, opening the door to a potential return to Manchester United.
According to El Nacional Cat, Barcelona sporting director Deco has informed Marcus Rashford that the club will not trigger the €30M purchase option from Manchester United. Not only do they consider his valuation to be too high, but they also do not believe he fits the sporting project. After failing to make a decisive impact in the tie against Atlético Madrid, the Englishman has been fully ruled out by the Spanish side.
In the absence of Raphinha due to injury, Marcus Rashford took the his place in the starting lineup for the Champions League quarterfinals. Given a major opportunity to shine, the Englishman delivered a heavily criticized performance, missing key chances in the first leg and being relegated to the bench in the second leg. As a result, Barcelona now appear to have decided against signing him, focusing instead toward a young, high-potential left winger.
With the reported decision by the Blaugranas, Marcus Rashford has decided to change his stance, expressing openness to a return to Manchester United—a move to which coach Michael Carrick is reportedly quite receptive, reports Simon Stone, via BBC. However, the Reds are unwilling to discuss his return to the roster until they have secured their Champions League spot. The English forward could be a key asset in competing against world-class teams.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona smiling prior a game.
Marcus Rashford reportedly attracts interest from Juventus
Marcus Rashford remains under contract with Manchester United until 2028, meaning he would be expected to return to the club at the end of the season. However, theRed Devils could face difficulties covering his high wages and may look to sell him if they fail to secure a spot in the 2026–27 UEFA Champions League. As a result, Juventus FC are reportedly emerging as a clear solution for the Englishman.
According to SportsBoom, the Vecchia Signora are open to signing Rashford if either Manchester United or Barcelona decide not to keep him in their squad. Despite being 29, the English forward could provide a decisive boost to Juventus’ attack, having proven his ability to deliver both goals and creativity. That said, his salary remains a significant hurdle and would likely need to be reduced.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona runs with the ball during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Even though the signing of Alessandro Bastoni by Barcelona initially seemed quite difficult, the Italian’s defender arrival could now be edging closer, as Inter Milan are reportedly interested in including Héctor Fort as part of the deal.
Following the departure of Iñigo Martínez, Barcelona have faced serious defensive issues, which ultimately led to their Champions League elimination. As a result, Alessandro Bastoni emerged as an ideal solution, as he is reportedly looking to leave Inter Milan. While his arrival initially appeared complicated, both clubs have reportedly found a potential solution, with the Nerazzurri showing interest in Héctor Fort as part of the deal.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio,Inter Milan are open to the departure of Alessandro Bastoni in the summer of 2026. Despite being a cornerstone of the team, they are aware of the Italian’s interest in moving to Barcelona, valuing his transfer at €70M (around $82M). However, the Spanish side is reportedly aiming for a deal in the €50–60M range (around $58–70M). As things stand, both parties appear to be moving toward a compromise.
In an effort to reinforce their defensive line, the Nerazzurri are interested in signing Héctor Fort, a Barcelona full-back currently on loan at Elche CF. With this in mind, the Blaugrana could be open to including him in a deal for Bastoni, reducing the overall transfer package, according to Matteo Moretto. Valued at €12M on Transfermarkt, the Spanish full-back could bring the operation down to the €50–60M range that they are looking to pay.
Following his red card with Italy national football team in the last match, Alessandro Bastoni does not appear fully comfortable. Ahead of the next game against Cagliari Calcio, head coach Cristian Chivu acknowledged that the defender is not at his best, both physically and mentally, ruling him out. As a result, he could push the Italian side for a move to Barcelona, potentially forcing a reduction in his transfer fee in the summer of 2026.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League.
Barcelona reportedly add Luka Vušković as backup to Bastoni deal
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have kept Alessandro Bastoni as their top priority, as his profile is highly valued by sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick. However, his signing could prove quite complex, as Inter Milan maintain a very high valuation. As a result, the Blaugrana have reportedly also turned their attention to Luka Vušković, who has impressed at Hamburger SV.
According to Gabriel Sans, via Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are closely monitoring Luka Vušković. Despite being under contract with Tottenham Hotspur until 2030, the Croatian is not keen on playing for the English side and is seeking a move following his loan spell at Hamburger SV. Should they end up being relegated, the defender could push even harder for an exit, with FC Barcelona interested in securing his arrival.
After impressing at Hamburger SV, Luka Vušković has seen his valuation rise to €60M (around $70M) on Transfermarkt, and it could climb even higher, as Tottenham are keen to keep him. However, his agent, Pini Zahavi, has a close relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, which could facilitate a move by putting pressure on the English side to negotiate his sale.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League.
Despite already being a historic figure for Argentina, Lionel Scaloni could be set for a move after the 2026 World Cup. After their UEFA Champions League elimination, Real Madrid have reportedly decided to look for a new head coach, with the Argentine emerging as a clear candidate.
Lionel Scaloni has managed to turn Argentina into one of the best national sides in the world. Not only did he lead them to the 2022 World Cup title, but he also built a highly competitive roster blending experience and youth. Despite this, his future with the national team remains unclear, as he has yet to renew his contract. Furthermore, he is reportedly emerging as a leading candidate to become Real Madrid head coach in a post-2026 World Cup move.
According to Abraham P. Romero, via El Mundo, Los Blancos have decided to move on from Álvaro Arbeloa, as they believe he failed to get the most out of the current squad. As a result, they have chosen to rule out young, inexperienced candidates, instead focusing on those with world-class experience. In this context, Lionel Scaloni emerges as a clear candidate to take over the role after the 2026 World Cup.
With a contract with Argentina running through the end of 2026, Scaloni may not face a difficult exit from the national team. After ending a 36-year drought without winning a World Cup title, he has become one of the best coaches in the world, building a roster with a good balance between experience and youth. However, he may not decide on his future until after the tournament, leaving Real Madrid without a clear answer for several months.
While Lionel Scaloni managed to lead Argentina to a World Cup title, he has never had experience as a head coach at club level. His closest role came as an assistant to Jorge Sampaoli at Sevilla FC. Far from being a simple challenge, he could face the demanding day-to-day environment at Real Madrid, defined by sky-high expectations and little tolerance for trophyless seasons. With this in mind, Los Blancos are keeping four other alternatives on their shortlist.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni.
Not only Scaloni: Real Madrid reportedly chase four coaches
After Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Real Madrid made the risky decision to back Xabi Alonso, who had impressed at Bayer Leverkusen. However, he did not arrive with extensive experience managing star players, something that ultimately cost him his position. Nor has Álvaro Arbeloa proven to be the solution, as he failed to change the team’s reality. As a result, they are reportedly not only adding Lionel Scaloni, but also considering four other experienced candidates.
Alongside Lionel Scaloni, Los Blancos have decided to add Didier Deschamps, who is set to leave France after the 2026 World Cup. While Jürgen Klopp is another clear favorite, he is not expected to leave the Red Bull GmbH group, but he will once again be tempted. Moreover, Mauricio Pochettino emerges as a surprise candidate, as president Florentino Pérez reportedly holds him in high regard, according to El Mundo.
While the incident between Vinícius Jr. and Gianluca Prestianni cast doubt over his candidacy, José Mourinho is also considered among the options to coach Real Madrid, according to El Mundo. As one of the managers most beloved by the fanbase, the Portuguese could be key to getting this promising team back on track, having consistently shown his ability to manage big egos and leading los Blancos into a new era.
Lionel Scaloni, Head Coach of Argentina looks on prior to the international friendly match.
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Argentine youth developer Facundo Alvanezzi discusses his 11 years at FC Basel, his role in shaping stars like Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri, and why fostering "hunger" and embracing mistakes is the secret to producing elite talent.
Alongside the technological leaps of the 21st century, soccer has evolved through the implementation of new instruments and methodologies embraced by clubs across all levels of the game. Yet technology alone does not always translate into better players or better human beings.
World Soccer Talk had the opportunity to sit down with Argentine youth developer Facundo Alvanezzi, who spent 11 years at Swiss club FC Basel between 2008 and 2019. Having trained in South America and studied the methods of some of Europe’s most renowned clubs, including FC Barcelona, AC Milan and Bayern Munich, Alvanezzi applied his knowledge to help produce elite talents such as Granit Xhaka, Xherdan Shaqiri and Fabian Schär, among others.
A former professional player in Argentina who also played in Italy, Alvanezzi began his coaching career at Aldosivi before departing for Basel in 2008. Moving from scheduled training sessions with limited soccer balls, “compensated by the amount of talent,” to an environment where every youth team trained on a heated pitch, had balls for every player, full kits and access to psychologists, nutritionists and other health professionals represented a dramatic shift in perspective.
FC Basel and a commitment to youth development
Already proficient in Italian from his playing days, Alvanezzi still had to immerse himself in the cultural and linguistic demands of his new environment, all in service of what he considers the cornerstone of his work: communication. In a single training session, he might move between Italian, French, and German while coordinating multiple groups of young players across state-of-the-art facilities designed to maximize their development.
FC Basel’s U-14 squad.
“A club like Basel worked with all 14 or 15 age groups all at the same time. The First Division had its own separate pitch. But for everything related to the youth levels from U21 down, everyone had their own respective pitch. Even the littlest ones, the 5 and 6-year-olds, had their own synthetic fields with dimensions suited for 5 or 6-year-olds. Just to give you an idea—no time was wasted there. In other words, time is utilized in a way that enriches you instead of being a deficit that hinders the development of future players.“
Alvanezzi then put into context the remarkable achievement of a small nation punching well above its weight. “You can’t forget that Switzerland has a population of between 6 and 7 million inhabitants, so the emerging talent back then was very scarce. They did an extraordinary market study so that today they have 17, 18, 19, and 20-year-olds—which didn’t happen before—playing and qualified for the next World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada. So, basically, everything related to infrastructure and planning… whether you like it or not, having that entire grid set up allowed me—as someone passionate about football who loves being on the pitch—to work peacefully. I knew I had my designated pitch to work with the U15s, the U16s, the U17s,” he added.
The role of a youth developer and the cultivation of talent
A fluent Spanish speaker, Alvanezzi describes himself as a “formador de juveniles,” a youth developer rather than a coach, drawing a sharp distinction between the two roles: “The developer (formador) teaches and builds; they earn very little, if anything at all. In terms of titles—U14s, U15s, the Reserves… I don’t care about those. The coach (entrenador) is there to train, to play, to compete, to get points, to win a domestic league, a Libertadores, a Euros, a Champions League, or a World Cup. They are two completely different things. That’s why there aren’t many coaches developing players, and there aren’t many developers coaching elite teams.“
Another key principle in his approach is trusting the creative instincts of young players rather than issuing directives, recognizing that the youth phase is when information can have the most profound impact. He pairs this with a cosmopolitan perspective while never abandoning his own core beliefs.
Facundo Alvanezzi on the touchline.
“In other words: at no point do I impose. I don’t impose knowledge, authority, or didactics—nothing. I seduce. Those are two completely different things. And I try to seduce through knowledge. Because when you have knowledge, you can ‘disarm’ the player; when you explain the how, the when, the where, and the why. Of course, when I go somewhere else, I adapt, but I cannot renounce my genes.“
When he arrived in Switzerland, Alvanezzi found himself surrounded by cutting-edge technology, GPS tracking and gym equipment, yet he remains committed to the idea of developing players “with a ball.” “In player development, I adapted to the systems, but with my own imprint. I carry the Argentine imprint everywhere. It’s this: I watch a player—how he walks—a 5-year-old, a 10, 15, or 20-year-old. I watch him walk. I throw him a ball. I watch him make a couple of touches—juggling in the air, a change of direction. And right then, I realize what that footballer might be capable of. Or not,” he explained.
The value of mistakes in youth development
Elite clubs increasingly measure the success of their youth teams by silverware, mirroring the pressure placed on the first team. But for Alvanezzi, perfection is not the goal. Forcing young players into rigid systems, he argues, sends them to the first team with significant blind spots, and he views the ability to make mistakes as one of the most valuable learning tools available.
“Here are players I can ask to play a football of possession and position. And then there are footballers to whom I have to say, ‘You: control the ball, don’t carry it, and pass it to a teammate.’ Meanwhile, for another player—because I go against the establishment and the system—,” Alvanezzi said.
“I believe one of the virtues I have in this vocation of developing players is that I value the error. From the error, I create the virtue of the success. In the context of teaching, I don’t criticize the player; I seduce him. ‘But what if I struggle, I lose the ball, it’s hard for me, and they score on us?’ And what’s the problem? I don’t want my trophies and medals hanging in my house. What good are they to me? If, in the end, I didn’t get any player to move up to the First Division. If I didn’t develop a single player for the first team,” he added.
Alvanezzi, who says he has not a single medal or trophy displayed in his home, considers the players he has helped reach the elite level to be his true honors: “Now, my ‘medals’ are an average of 45 to 50 players who reached the top level. Especially at Basel. We had a coach like Thorsten Fink, who helped us a lot and used to play for Bayern Munich. He helped us bring up kids at 16 or 17 years old. I had the pleasure of training players like Yann Sommer, Granit Xhaka, Shaqiri, Breel Embolo, Noah Okafor, Fabian Schär , Eray Cömert, Neftali Manzambi, Raoul Petretta, Cedric Itten—an immense number of players. Those are the medals one gets to hang up.“
He then stressed that the developer’s job demands patience and an embrace of the mistake. “They need to learn to play with the right foot, with the left foot, and have a lot of contact with the ball. When I arrived at Basel and asked for—for example, the squads there are 18 players—I asked for no less than one ball per player. At first, they just looked at me. ‘Why one ball per player?’ Because, what did I achieve over the years? That in an hour and a half, the players went from an average of 200 touches in a standard session… once I integrated the technical and game-based training, that multiplied to 1,400 daily touches with the ball. The more touches you have, the more you polish the errors.“
In an environment dominated by innovation, Alvanezzi believes the fundamentals are often left behind, and his street soccer mentality changed the culture at Basel. “In Europe, ‘soccer practice’ (11v11) doesn’t exist. From Monday to Friday, it’s all small-sided games. Everything. So when I got to Basel, imagine the resistance from the other coaches. They told me, ‘No, Facundo, you’re crazy. The players will get injured; we don’t do that here; everything is small-sided.’
“And I told them, ‘The 11v11 is the symptom for Saturday or Sunday; it’s how you know which player you can count on and which one you can’t. You might think you can count on someone, but on a full pitch, it becomes too big for them, and they become completely disorganized. We need a parameter.’ Well, I implemented it at Basel until it became their own ‘modus operandi’ that on Thursdays, we did the 11v11 practice. The teams started improving exponentially because they were finally playing football not in a 20×20 or 30×30 space, but in 100×65—which is where real football is played,” he added.
‘Hunger’: the defining trait of the players who made it
Among the many stars Alvanezzi has helped develop, a common thread runs through the backstories of those who reached the highest level: adversity. Both Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka were born and raised in a disintegrating Yugoslavia amid violence before finding asylum in Switzerland. Breel Embolo‘s path was similar, leaving Cameroon with his family before settling in France and eventually Switzerland.
That contrast between their upbringing and those of more comfortable peers is precisely what Alvanezzi calls “hunger,” the spark that gave them a decisive edge. “From an early age, when you watch them train—unlike the vast majority of Swiss youth developers who never experienced need—these were kids of struggle. They are born, raised, and developed out of hardship. So, the only possibility they had to emerge—unlike other great Swiss talents I had at Basel who didn’t make it—they weren’t going to make it because they lacked that ‘hunger.’ That potentiality of saying, ‘Through soccer, I am going to help my family; I am going to emerge; I am going to be somebody.‘”
Alvanezzi then reflected on the social realities that shaped Xhaka, Shaqiri and Embolo. “They lacked even the most basic conditions in an elite, first-world country. They were segregated because they weren’t Swiss. They are three starters for the Swiss national team who have played in World Cups, but Breel is from Cameroon, and the other two are Kosovar. When society wasn’t integrating them, but they were useful to the national team football-wise, they nationalized them.“
Alvanezzi with Neftali Manzambi, Breel Embolo, and Charles Pickel.
He then illustrated how that hunger translates into a measurable competitive advantage. “Genetically, all of that plays in their favor, 80 or 90% more than the well-off Swiss player… That “plus” works in your favor. While they came to training on foot or by tram, the vast majority of players of Swiss origin came every day with their fathers in a different car—a Mercedes-Benz, a Porsche… That factor of having nothing missing ends up working against you. Since you have everything, what am I going to be ambitious about? Playing in a World Cup? I’m not interested. Reaching the first team? If I make it, I make it, and if I don’t, I still have everything,” he stated.
A memorable trip to South Africa
In 2010, following the World Cup in South Africa, Alvanezzi traveled to the country for fifteen days representing the Swiss U15 national team with Basel at the Danone Nations Cup, competing against teams from Japan, Argentina, China, England, Italy and others. What left the deepest impression on him, however, was not the competition itself but the cultural awakening it triggered among his Swiss players and the youth developers around them.
“They didn’t know what it was like for a kid not to have a cell phone, or to walk around barefoot. They couldn’t understand why colored people sat at one table and white people at another because of the legacy of apartheid. All the Swiss kids traveled with the latest cell phones. They would leave half of their plates full of food. And 50 meters away, at the fence in a gated area of the complex, local kids would come to beg for food,” he recalled.
FC Basel youth squad in 2010 Danone Cup.
“Along with several other Latino coaches, I would gather the leftover food and give it to them. It reached the point where FIFA was going to fine me, because they said I wasn’t allowed to feed the people. And I told them: ‘Why not? It’s the most important thing; they’re hungry. The only one who understood it on that trip was Breel Embolo,” Alvanezzi added.
Talent, mentality and the cohesion of a group
One of the most enduring debates in sports is whether the right mentality can outshine raw talent through sheer hard work, or whether that notion is simply wishful thinking. For Alvanezzi, the two qualities are not in competition but are complementary, with every player on a team assigned a specific purpose that allows both to coexist.
Using the contrasting examples of Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki, one a physical force of nature, the other a pure embodiment of technical brilliance, he illustrates how different profiles can coexist within the same system “They are complementary and different at the same time. You can link this to the aspect of mental construction. Mentality is also something you develop. If I convince you that in three years you have to improve your heading or your left foot, and you end up doing it in a match to stop a counter-attack… that is mentality,” Alvanezzi stated.
“When you see Haaland playing with his back to the goal, he looks like an average player; put him facing the goal, and he’s an animal. He hides his deficit in back-to-goal play—and tries to do it as little as possible—but he has an above-average mentality that allows him to fail ten times and try again. Cherki, on the other hand, relies entirely on his talent. He has a different mentality, but he understood that to stay at the elite level, he must not interpret that (reliance on talent) as a fragility,” he added.
While Alvanezzi acknowledged that mental strength is partly something “you bring it with you, but you can also incorporate it,” he was equally quick to point out that he has seen players with extraordinary talent but no capacity for hard work, and others with far less natural ability but the psychological resilience to make it to the top. Bridging that gap, he argues, is just as much the developer’s responsibility as any technical instruction.
“Mental construction is also developed. If I talk to you and try to seduce and convince you of your errors with respect, you will be more receptive. Today, kids are given 20 hours of leisure time outside of training, and we don’t teach them how to think. But to develop players, you must be emotionally well-constituted and rationally grounded. If you aren’t vocational and emotional, you cannot develop players; you should do something else.“
Beyond individual qualities, Alvanezzi insists that everything must be considered through the lens of the collective, where a single weak link can unravel even the most talented group: “The developer has to work with a clear idea and a common goal. The ‘mind’ of the team, 90% of the time, has to be uniform. If it isn’t uniform, the group disintegrates, no matter how much talent you have.“
“If mentally you are thinking ‘white’ and I am thinking ‘black,’ and we have to play with a red ball, but neither of us wants to yield, it means we aren’t complementary. Individualism and egocentrism generate a very large negative impact. We all row to reach the shore and save ourselves; it can’t be that one rows right and another rows left, leaving us in the high seas until a wave drowns us,” Alvanezzi concluded.
Stress: the invisible enemy of athletes
As in any high-performance discipline, stress management has become one of the defining challenges in modern soccer, a sport that has seen its fixture calendar grow to near-unsustainable levels. “Players today have an enormous match load. They play 80, 90, 100 matches a year. In my era, that didn’t exist. And that carries an enormous physical, mental, and psychological toll, which is one of the many reasons why footballers get injured. Everything is connected. And if the head isn’t right, the body will never be right,” Alvanezzi stated.
Xherdan Shaqiri of Basel (Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images).
With stress affecting muscles, tendons and bones alike, conventional metrics like GPS data and weight measurements become meaningless when the mental aspect is ignored, he argues. “A player will always tell you they are at 100%. I liked, and I still like, for the player to train at 50% or 60%. If a kid trains at 100% five days a week and then tries to play at 200% on the weekend, they end up getting hurt. Sooner or later. It’s a universal law.“
These pressures are not confined to the professional game, extending deep into the youth system as well. “Let’s take away the weights, take away the GPS, work more on the mental side, and talk to the footballer. When a footballer tells you they want to stay 60 minutes longer after training… ‘No. Go home. Rest. Eat well. Take a nap. Look after yourself. Read, watch a movie. Relax. Do yoga. Meditate.’ But for all of that, you have to talk, and you have to be prepared,” he stated.
Alvanezzi also addressed the lack of preventive awareness he has observed at the youth level: “That’s why I like it when a player comes and tells me: ‘This and that is happening to me.’ ‘Don’t worry. You’re not playing this match; you’re going to train at 50%.’ I’d rather give you two weeks of rest than have it be six months of forced leave due to a ligament tear. Today, there is no prevention because we, the developers, aren’t prepared to prevent; we are competitive, egocentric beings who want to win everything, forgetting that we don’t play anymore.“
U.S. soccer and MLS evolution: the legacy of 1994
Through friends living and working in the United States, and despite acknowledging that his English is far from perfect, Alvanezzi has been able to witness a genuine transformation in the country’s soccer culture, one he traces directly back to the 1994 World Cup, when MLS was widely seen as nothing more than a retirement league. That perception, he says, has been thoroughly dismantled.
“Today, football in the US—I’m not saying it competes head-to-head with baseball, basketball, or ice hockey—but it has gained a very prominent position. It’s no coincidence that Lionel Messi, the most emblematic figure in world football today, is playing in MLS. Players who before, as you said, came perhaps for a final retirement to spend their last seasons in a low-caliber competition, find it’s a different world now. It has grown so much that renowned players prefer to come to MLS rather than go to a country in the Middle East or Asia.“
While acknowledging that MLS remains a league in the midst of its evolution, Alvanezzi offered a measured timeline for when it could fully establish itself at the highest level. “The evolution in terms of the training and qualification of the coaches and developers is very good. I have excellent references. Like any expanding football in a developmental stage, I think it will take them another 5 to 10 years to consolidate. It usually takes 10 to 15 years for a major league to stabilize and reach an international competitive level. They are currently in that developmental process from every point of view,” he stated.
The influence of Latinos in U.S. soccer
Once considered a secondary destination for professional development, the United States has transformed into a country that offers genuine, high-level opportunities for coaches and developers alike. That growth has been driven in part by soccer’s surging popularity, the influence of the Latino community, and high-profile figures like Lionel Messi and David Beckham, who have brought the sport to new audiences across the country.
Lionel Messi greets David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami CF (Elsa/Getty Images).
“There are many Latinos and Argentines working in development at important clubs and academies. It is expanding in a very interesting way. They take the culture they don’t have—they are very pragmatic in that sense. Whatever they lack, they acquire it. Don’t ask me how, but they go after it. If they don’t have a qualified scientist, they go find one in Germany, Norway, or Sweden and bring them to their country to make it evolve. They do exactly the same with soccer.“
For youth coaches specifically, the shift in available resources has been nothing short of transformative. “They start from the foundation: youth development. And because of their immense purchasing power as a nation, they can leverage incredible infrastructure. Being in an academy there—even one not affiliated with a famous MLS club—means having 4, 5, or 6 pitches to train on. They have indoor gyms for “fast football” when the weather is bad. Material in abundance. For a developer like me, who dealt with hardships starting out in Argentina—not in terms of talent, but in terms of equipment and structure—imagine what that solves.“
Facundo Alvanezzi (L), youth developer at FC Basel, and Xherdan Shaqiri (R) of Switzerland.
Despite being eliminated by Bayern Munich, Kylian Mbappe eclipsed Lionel Messi’s personal best but fell short of matching Cristiano Ronaldo's record for goals in a single UEFA Champions League season.
Kylian Mbappe‘s 2025-26 UEFA Champions League campaign came to a crashing halt Wednesday following Real Madrid’s 6-4 aggregate loss to Bayern Munich in the quarterfinal second leg. While the Frenchman managed to surpass Lionel Messi’s personal best, he ultimately fell short of matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s gold standard for goals in a single UCL season.
Despite being sidelined for three matches, Mbappe enjoyed a prolific run in European play, netting a staggering 13 goals in just seven games during the league phase. Those historic numbers immediately put the Frenchman on a trajectory to shatter every existing record had Real Madrid managed a deeper run toward the final.
His availability in the knockout stages was limited, featuring only in the first leg of the playoff round against Benfica and the second leg of the Round of 16 against Manchester City after missing time with a knee sprain. After going scoreless in those earlier rounds, Mbappe regained his form in the quarterfinals against Bayern Munich, scoring once in each leg of the series.
His 42nd-minute strike at the Allianz Arena, assisted by Vinicius Junior, brought his tournament total to 15 goals. Although he shattered his previous personal bests of eight goals in the 2020-21 and 2023-24 campaigns, the premature exit effectively clipped Mbappe’s wings in his pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo’s ultimate milestone.
Messi left in the rearview
When it comes to pure finishing, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remain the competition’s historical benchmarks. However, Mbappe’s 2025-26 output has already eclipsed the greatest single-season effort produced by the Argentine and Barcelona legend.
By finding the net 15 times in 11 appearances, Mbappe surpassed Messi’s career-high for a single Champions League campaign. Messi’s most productive season came in 2011-12, when he scored 14 goals before Barcelona was eliminated by Chelsea in the semifinal stage.
Remarkably, Mbappe now joins an elite club alongside Karim Benzema and Robert Lewandowski, who both reached the 15-goal mark in a single season. Benzema achieved the feat in 12 matches during the 2021-22 campaign, while Lewandowski hit the number in just 10 games in 2019-20; notably, Mbappe is the first to do so under the competition’s revamped format.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s record remains safe
While Mbappe was on a torrid pace, the quarterfinal exit preserves both of the high-water marks set by Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese icon still holds the record for the most goals in a single Champions League edition, having scored 17 times in 11 games during the 2013-14 season.
Furthermore, Ronaldo also maintains the second-best mark in history, a 16-goal barrage across 12 games in 2015-16. Mbappe’s mid-season fitness issues, which saw him sidelined for three matches, proved to be missed opportunities to catch Ronaldo, whose records will remain untouched for at least one more year.
Lionel Messi (L) of FC Barcelona, Kylian Mbappe (M), and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Real Madrid CF.
Bayern Munich and Real Madrid faced off in a hard-fought match in the 2025-26 Champions League quarterfinals. While the German side dominated, Real Madrid shone with their efficiency. However, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise led the way to victory with two brilliant goals.
Throughout the match, Bayern Munich established as the more dominant side, enjoying long spells of possession and excelling with their high press. However, Real Madrid managed to compete by sitting deep defensively and breaking on the counterattack, proving quite efficient. While this kept the game closely contested, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise ultimately decided the Champions League victory with two stunning goals in the closing minutes.
Los Blancos started the match in top form, as just 36 seconds in, Arda Güler scored a long-range goal following a mistake by Manuel Neuer in the build-up. However, they chose not to seek control through possession, instead sitting back defensively and hitting on the counterattack. Because of this, they were able to dictate the rhythm of the game, with the Turkish midfielder completing a brilliant brace, including a stunning free-kick goal.
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 15, 2026
While the German side controlled possession, Real Madrid looked more dangerous. Aleksandar Pavlović and Harry Kane scored the two goals that brought the game level, showcasing their quality. However, Kylian Mbappé restored the lead in the 45th minute, finishing off a great cross from Vinícius Jr. with two touches to beat Manuel Neuer and send his team into halftime in front.
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 15, 2026
Far from easing their attacking pressure in the second half, Bayern Munich continued to dominate the game, constantly pushing to score and secure the win. In response, Los Blancos relied on a solid low block that cut out any attacking moves while breaking quickly on the counter. After persistent pressure, the German side eventually found the victory, with two impressive individual moments from Luis Díaz and Michael Olise late in the match.
Luis Diaz and Michael Olise impressed with their brilliant goals
Relentlessly pressing for a goal in the second half, Bayern Munich finally broke the deadlock in the aggregate score. Driving into Real Madrid’s box, Aleksandar Pavlović executed a short pass to Luis Díaz on the left, who then returned it and laid it off to Jamal Musiala. The German executed a first-time backheel pass, setting up the Colombian perfectly. After dribbling past the defenders, Díaz fired an excellent shot past Lunin.
Far from settling after Luis Díaz’s goal, the German side maintained their attacking intent. Following a pass from Harry Kane, Michael Olise drove efficiently toward Real Madrid’s box. Taking on Antonio Rüdiger and Franco Mastantuono, the Frenchman unleashed a stunning strike from outside the area, placing the ball into the corner of the net and leaving Andriy Lunin with no chance, making it 6–4 on aggregate.
LUIS DÍAZ AND MICHAEL OLISE WIN IT FOR BAYERN AT THE DEATH 🔥
Arsenal and Sporting CP are clashing at the Emirates Stadium for the UEFA Champions League, a must-watch game alongside our liveblog coverage.
Arsenal hosted Sporting CP on Wednesday, April 15, for the second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals at Emirates Stadium. Following a scoreless draw, the Gunners maintained their aggregate advantage from the first leg to secure a spot in the semifinals for the second consecutive season.
The Gunners returned home holding a 1-0 aggregate lead established at José Alvalade Stadium, courtesy of Kai Havertz’s dramatic last-minute winner. Aware of their slim cushion, the hosts adopted a disciplined approach, conceding just one shot on target to a Sporting CP side that proved unable to crack Arsenal’s defensive shape.
With the result, an unbeaten Arsenal side has reached the Champions League semifinals in back-to-back seasons for the first time in club history. They now advance to face Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid, an opponent they already dismantled earlier this season with a dominant 4-0 victory during the league phase at the Emirates.
Declan Rice of Arsenal shows appreciation to the fans following the team's victory against Sporting CP.
After being eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, Liverpool appear to have no choice but to focus on the next season. With Hugo Ekitike reportedly suffering an Achilles tendon injury, the Reds are said to be accelerating their plans, adding a striker reinforcement.
Unlike the previous season, Liverpool are having a disappointing campaign, no longer competing for the Premier League and being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League. Alongside these struggles, Hugo Ekitike had to be substituted in the previous match, reportedly suffering a season-ending injury. Because of this, the Reds have allegedly accelerated their plans, now adding a striker reinforcement in their objectives.
Following Mohamed Salah’s departure at the end of the season, the Reds had decided to pursue a winger, reportedly making Yan Diomande their top priority. Alongside the Ivorian, they have also targeted a striker, with Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United emerging as the main objective. However, Liverpool are also closely monitoring Jarrod Bowen, Harry Wilson, Iliman Ndiaye, and Bazoumana Touré, according to TEAMtalk.
Unlike Ekitike, Anthony Gordon is not a natural centre-forward, but he mainly excels as a left winger. However, the Englishman has shown the ability to perform in this role, making his arrival a strong possibility. In addition, he could also provide depth on the flanks once the Frenchman returns. For this reason, he would be an ideal fit for the squad, although his transfer could exceed $100 million.
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United celebrates scoring a goal.
Liverpool have already lost both of their starting forwards
Liverpool have not had success with their marquee attacking signings. After paying €240M (around $283M) for Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, both have suffered serious injuries in their first season at the club. While the Swede suffered a severe fibula fracture, the Frenchman suffered an Achilles tendon rupture, with both missing the chance to shine on the pitch in the Reds’ initial plan.
Even though Isak is back, he’ll need to get back into competitive form, as he hasn’t managed to shine under Arne Slot. With just a few games left to secure a spot in the 2026–27 Champions League, the Swede will get plenty of playing time as he looks to recapture the form that made him shine at Newcastle United. Alongside him, Rio Ngumoha will play a more prominent role on the team, as he has impressed and will be untransferable for next season, reports Football Insider.
Hugo Ekitike had been the Reds’ most efficient striker. After playing 45 games, the Frenchman had emerged as the team’s top scorer, netting 17 goals. As a result, the team will face a tough challenge in replacing him, so Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah must step up to contribute to the scoring effort. With nearly nine months of recovery time, the possible arrival of Anthony Gordon would be an interesting alternative.
Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final.
Set to face Sporting CP in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Arsenal might be dealing once again with the absence of star Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal host the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash against Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium this Wednesday, looking to protect a slim lead and advance to the final four. While the Gunners enter as heavy favorites, star winger Bukayo Saka has been entirely left out of the Gunners’ squad.
Bukayo Saka won’t be featuring in the return leg against Sporting CP due to injury. The England international was widely expected to return for Saturday’s fixture against Bournemouth but failed to make the squad; his subsequent absence from Tuesday’s training session further dims the prospects of him playing a role in this continental decider.
Manager Mikel Arteta was noncommittal when asked if Saka or defender Jurrien Timber might return to the fold, offering only that “maybe one of them” could be involved. However, when pressed on the nature of the winger’s injury and its recent persistence, the Spaniard provided a bit more clarity for the worried Emirates faithful.
“It’s something that he was carrying for a while. It was an Achilles issue,” Arteta said. “It’s progression but hopefully it’s going to be a matter of days and not weeks. But he has to see when the load is more how he responds to that kind of progression,” he added.
Eberechi Eze, Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber of Arsenal.
Arsenal navigating a fitness crisis
Saka isn’t the only concern for a depleted Arsenal squad; Tuesday’s training session raised red flags regarding several other key contributors. Missing from the main group were midfield anchors Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, along with defender Riccardo Calafiori.
While Rice has reportedly recovered and should be available for selection, significant questions remain over whether Odegaard and Calafiori are fit enough to start. This personnel crunch may force Arteta to lean on his depth as he looks to defend a narrow 1-0 aggregate advantage in the Champions League clash.
Confirmed lineups for Arsenal and Sporting CP
Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): David Raya; Cristhian Mosquera, William Saliba, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli; Viktor Gyokeres. Head coach: Mikel Arteta.
Sporting CP’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Rui Silva; Eduardo Quaresma, Ousmane Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Maximiliano Araujo; Morten Hjulmand, Hidemasa Morita; Geny Catamo, Francisco Trincao, Pedro Goncalves; Luis Javier Suarez. Head coach: Rui Borges.
After losing 1-2 to Bayern Munich, Real Madrid are looking to stage a comeback in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals. However, los Blancos do not only need a win, but are also forced into a specific scenario. Here, we will analyze the three possible outcomes.
While Real Madrid did not deliver a standout performance in the first leg, they managed to stay alive against Bayern Munich thanks to Kylian Mbappé and his late goal. Needing to overturn the scoreline, Los Blancos could opt for an offensive approach in search of making the difference. Despite this, they require a specific scenario to secure their place in the semifinals of the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League.
Bayern Munich have proven to be one of the best teams in the world. Led by Harry Kane and Manuel Neuer, they have dominated their opponents throughout the season. In addition, coach Vincent Kompany welcomes back Serge Gnabry, who claims to be in peak physical condition and will be key to organizing the offense. However, they will face a tough challenge defensively, as los Blancos already exploited their spaces in the first leg with Vinícius Jr. and Mbappé.
The German side dominated much of the first leg, but they suffered a drop in performance after substituting Serge Gnabry and Konrad Laimer, as they were the ones leading and supporting the attack. As a result, both are expected to start and play key roles in pressing Real Madrid, who will be without Aurélien Tchouaméni—forcing coach Álvaro Arbeloa to adjust the midfield, a very tough challenge for the second leg.
Los Blancos will have to make changes to their starting lineup, as Tchouaméni’s absence is significant. Therefore, coach Arbeloa is reportedly set to deploy Federico Valverde as a defensive midfielder, as Eduardo Camavinga did not fully convince with his performance against Girona FC. In addition, Jude Bellingham could play a crucial role, as he impressed in the first leg and appears to be back in top form after his physical issues.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid controls the ball while under pressure from Jonathan Tah of FC Bayern Munich.
How could Real Madrid’s win against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?
In case Real Madrid secure a victory over Bayern Munich, they would not immediately guarantee a place in the 2025–26 Champions League semifinals. Trailing by just one goal in the aggregate score, Los Blancos need to win by a two-goal margin against the German side to advance. Should they accomplish this, they would face PSG, another top contender for the title, as they pursue their second consecutive Champions League victory.
How could Real Madrid’s draw against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?
Holding just one-goal margin in the overall score, Real Madrid would be directly eliminated of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League in case they draw against Bayern Munich. For that reason, the German side would be getting a ticket for the semifinals, for a second consecutive season, facing PSG in one of the best clashes, as both have been dominating.
If Los Blancos clinch a victory by a one-goal margin, they would level the aggregate score, opening the door to compete for a place in the next round of the tournament. As this is the second leg, a winner would have to be decided in extra time, with two periods of 15 minutes each. If there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where a definitive winner would to face PSG.
How could Real Madrid’s defeat against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?
Having failed to secure a decisive victory in the first leg, Real Madrid would be eliminated from the 2025-26 Champions League if they lose to Bayern Munich. For that reason, los Blancos would go two seasons without reaching the tournament’s semifinals—something that hasn’t happened since 2020, when they were eliminated in the round of 16 for two consecutive seasons. Meanwhile, the German side returns to this stage after a two-year absence.
Michael Olise of FC Bayern Munich is challenged by Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid.
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Following the tight result in the first leg, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are preparing to face off in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals. As a result, fans are closely monitoring the status of Kylian Mbappé, as his presence could be decisive in front of goal.
Despite being inferior for much of the first leg, Real Madrid still hold hope of overturning the result against Bayern Munich, as they trail by just one goal. Given the narrow scoreline, both sides expect a contested game, with an offensive approach dominating. Moreover, fans are closely monitoring the status of Kylian Mbappé as his presence could prove in the Champions League Quarterfinals.
After avoiding injuries in recent matches, Kylian Mbappé is in peak physical condition. Because of this, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will start the Frenchman, hoping his scoring impact will help overturn the result. In addition, he was decisive in the first leg, so another standout performance is expected. With this, he could look to silence the criticism surrounding his season, which has otherwise been impressive.
Alongside the Frenchman,Real Madrid will once again rely on the partnership with Vinícius Jr. However, the absence of Aurélien Tchouaméni due to yellow card accumulation will force adjustments in the starting lineup, such as deploying Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde at the base of midfield. As a result, Brahim Díaz could take on a key role, aiming to exploit spaces in the opposition’s midfield.
Bayern Munich will also have most of their squad available, with Harry Kane and Manuel Neuer returning to top form. After dominating in the first leg, coach Vincent Kompany may opt not to make changes to his starting lineup, as he confirmed that Serge Gnabry is fit enough to play 120 minutes if needed. In addition, Konrad Laimer and Josip Stanišić could once again play key roles, contributing to the team’s build-up play.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid attempts to shoot past Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Munich.
Bayern Munich predicted lineups vs Real Madrid
After their dominant performance in the first leg, Bayern Munich face Real Madrid as clear favorites. Coach Vincent Kompany will be without Lennart Karl and Sven Ulreich. However, the German side will rely on Kane, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, and Neuer as their core, maintaining their consistency. Despite this, they will face a tough challenge in defending space in behind, as Mbappé and Vinícius could use their pace to make the difference.
The German side could lineup as follows: Manuel Neuer; Josip Stanišić, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Konrad Laimer; Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlović; Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Luis Díaz; Harry Kane.
Real Madrid lineups vs Bayern Munich
Although they didn’t dominate the first leg, Real Madrid managed to be quite efficient, thanks to Kylian Mbappé. However, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be forced to make changes to his lineup, as Aurelien Tchouameni will be out due to yellow card accumulation. As a result, they will start Valverde as a defensive midfielder. Following that, Arda Guler and Brahim will be responsible for linking the midfield and the attack.
With this in mind, Real Madrid will play as follows: Andriy Lunin; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy; Brahim Diaz, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler; Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappé.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid in action during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Following their elimination, Barcelona star Raphinha blasted the officiating, calling their Champions League quarterfinal exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid a "robbery."
Barcelona‘s hopes of winning the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League were extinguished on Tuesday after falling short of overturning the aggregate deficit despite a 2-1 win at the Metropolitano. The controversy surrounding the tie against Atletico Madrid, however, is far from over, with star forward Raphinha pulling no punches in calling out what he described as a “robbery” by the referees across the entire quarterfinal series.
Raphinha had been one of the most significant absentees for Barcelona after picking up an injury during the March international break with Brazil, ruling him out of both legs against Atletico. Although he traveled to Madrid with his teammates to show his support, he made his feelings about the officiating crystal clear when addressing the media in the mixed zone.
“This match was a robbery. The refereeing had many issues; the decisions he made are unbelievable. Atletico committed I don’t know how many fouls, and the referee didn’t show them a single yellow card. I really want to understand his fear of Barca actually making it through the tie,” Raphinha said.
Among the most consequential decisions that went against the Blaugrana were the red cards shown to Pau Cubarsi in the first leg and Eric Garcia in the second, though both dismissals left little room for argument, with each player having fouled as the last man.
One of the more contentious moments from the first leg arose when Marc Pubill appeared to handle the ball after Juan Musso restarted play from a goal kick, only for the officials to wave away the appeals on the grounds that the ball was not yet in play. On the foul count, Atletico committed 15 compared to Barcelona’s eight in the second leg, yet the Colchoneros escaped without a single yellow card on the night.
For Raphinha, the accumulation of those decisions across both matches points to something more than isolated errors. “It was tough, especially when you see that you have to put in triple the effort just to win the match. I understand making a mistake in one match, but in two consecutive games?” the Brazilian added.
Musso responds to Raphinha
Raphinha’s pointed comments did not take long to make their way around the mixed zone, and Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso was given the chance to respond. The Argentine, who was outstanding across both legs, was having none of it.
“You can’t talk about a robbery. I understand what anyone might say. I respect everyone’s opinion, but let’s not frame the series as if it were a robbery, because that wasn’t the case. We won it on the pitch; we won 2-0 away. Being the last man in football is a red card, unfortunately,” Musso said, directly addressing the dismissals of Cubarsi and Garcia.
Having made seven saves in each leg, Musso was a central figure in Atletico’s progression through the Champions League quarterfinals, and he made a point of acknowledging the quality of the opponent while firmly rejecting Raphinha’s characterization. “They are a team we respect a lot and one that truly motivates us to play against. They are a great team, but I think talking about a robbery is madness,” he concluded.
Ahead of the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals against Real Madrid, legend Manuel Neuer warned Bayern Munich to "be careful."
Manuel Neuer continues to perform at an elite level at 40 years old, proving to be the difference-maker in the first leg against Real Madrid, but the veteran keeper knows the job is far from finished. Ahead of hosting Los Blancos for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Neuer warned his Bayern Munich teammates to “be careful” when dealing with the Spanish giants.
Boasting nine saves and 1.05 goals prevented according to SofaScore, Neuer earned Man of the Match honors in the opening leg as Bayern secured a gritty 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite holding a narrow aggregate lead, the World Cup winner remains wary of a trademark Real Madrid comeback.
Speaking to the media during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, Neuer was quick to downplay Bayern’s upper hand: “The only advantage is that we have a (one-goal) lead, but it’s Real Madrid; it is a very tough challenge. We are fortunate to play the second leg at home, and we have confidence in the fans. We are very motivated and prepared. It’s a good situation to be in… but we must be careful, as we’ve seen in the past how Real Madrid can win.“
Real Madrid enter the fixture following a 1-1 draw against Girona on Friday, a result that leaves them trailing La Liga leaders Barcelona by nine points. With only seven games remaining in the domestic campaign, the Champions League likely represents their final path to avoiding a trophyless 2025-26 season.
40 years old and putting in special performances 👏
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 7, 2026
Asked if Bayern is wary of a desperate and motivated Madrid side, Neuer was candid. “Of course… we know this situation well. For a big club like Real Madrid, it’s a brutal thing. When you evaluate that situation, you know it can make you more dangerous. But I don’t want to think too much about their situation, only about us. About the run we’re on and the fact that we are still in every competition. And that is all we are thinking about,” he stated.
Neuer’s record vs Real Madrid
Real Madrid has evolved into one of Neuer’s primary antagonists in European play. The goalkeeper has faced them in four previous knockout ties, advancing only once back in the 2011-12 season while falling in the 2013-14, 2016-17, and 2023-24 campaigns. (While the clubs also met in 2017-18, Neuer was sidelined due to injury).
In nine career appearances against Madrid, Neuer holds a 3-5-1 record with 19 goals conceded. The 2016-17 series remains particularly etched in memory due to officiating controversies, a history Neuer subtly alluded to when noting he has seen “how Real Madrid can win.”
Neuer to decide future soon
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid attempts to shoot past Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Munich.
Having turned 40 in March, questions regarding Neuer’s future have intensified as his contract expires at the end of the current season. Addressing his longevity, Neuer adopted a measured tone while suggesting a final call is imminent.
“The sooner I make the decision, the better. It won’t depend on the titles we win. But I haven’t decided anything yet, though it won’t take much longer,” he said. While rumors have swirled regarding a potential spot on Germany’s 2026 World Cup roster, the legend has already dismissed those claims, signaling that certain chapters of his storied career are indeed closing.
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Liverpool and PSG are ready to face off in the second leg of the 2025-26 Champions League quarterfinals. Following the French side’s victory in the first leg, the Reds are desperate to overturn the result. With that in mind, today’s match is shaping up to be a closely contested affair.
Liverpool face PSG in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals. Due to the emphatic victory by the French side in the first leg, the Reds are forced to adopt a highly offensive approach, moving away from a five-at-the-back system. In addition, coach Arne Slot will look to Mohamed Salah to lead the Reds’ comeback. However, coach Luis Enrique will not make things easy, as his side arrives in top form.
Far from relying on their two-goal advantage, Paris Saint-Germain come into the match determined to secure another victory, this time at Anfield. Coach Luis Enrique has acknowledged the difficulty of the game, so they are expected to rely on a high press and ball control to slow down Liverpool’s attacking progression. In addition, Désiré Doué remains in top form, serving as the French side’s main attacking threat.
Unlike the first leg, head coach Arne Slot will be forced to opt for a more aggressive attacking approach. Not only will they look to hurt PSG on the counterattack through Mohamed Salah, but they will also need to control the midfield with Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai. However, the presence of Jeremie Frimpong remains a key factor, as his physicality and attacking quality could create chances for Hugo Ekitike up front.
Both the Reds and PSG will engage in a battle that could define the outcome of the match: The midfield. In the first leg, the French side managed to neutralize the opposition’s attack with a brilliant performance from Vitinha and João Neves. As a result, Liverpool will look to restore control through Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch in order to dominate the game and create more opportunities for Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike.
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool and Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite Barcelona's 2-1 win in the second leg, Ademola Lookman's goal secured Atletico Madrid's ticket to the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals.
Atletico Madrid hosted FC Barcelona on Tuesday in the decisive second leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. Despite the Blaugrana claiming a 2-1 victory on the night, Ademola Lookman‘s goal proved to be the decisive blow, sending the Colchoneros through to the semifinals on aggregate.
Needing to overturn a two-goal deficit from the start, Barcelona hit the ground running when Ferran Torres pounced on a mistake from Clément Lenglet and laid the ball into the path of Lamine Yamal, who slotted it through Juan Musso’s legs to open the scoring in the fourth minute. Torres then added a second in the 24th minute, bringing down Dani Olmo’s pass with a deft first touch before finishing to give the Blaugrana a 2-0 lead on the night and level the tie on aggregate.
With the game heading for extra time, Barcelona‘s hopes were dashed in the 31st minute when Marcos Llorente delivered a cross from the right and Lookman met it first time, restoring Atletico’s aggregate advantage with a sharp finish. The Blaugrana were unable to find another breakthrough in the second half, and their cause was dealt a further blow when Eric Garcia was shown a red card in the 79th minute, leaving Barcelona to exit the competition 3-2 on aggregate.
It marks Atletico’s first Champions League semifinal appearance since the 2016-17 season, when they faced Real Madrid at that stage. Diego Simeone’s side will now await the winner of the tie between Arsenal and Sporting CP, with the Gunners holding a 1-0 lead heading into the second leg of their quarterfinal.
Ademola Lookman of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring against FC Barcelona.
After shining strongly with Como 1907 in Serie A, Cesc Fabregas has emerged as one of the leading candidates to manage Italy national team amid their rebuild. However, the Spaniard coach has publicly rejected this opportunity, keeping his focus elsewhere.
Despite not being a coach with extensive experience, Cesc Fabregas is thriving in Serie A, leading Como 1907 into one of the most exciting teams in the league. Without signing world-class stars, he has managed to build a highly competitive squad, developing young players along the way. Given his strong impact, the Spaniard was linked as a potential candidate to become Italy’s head coach, but he firmly turned down the opportunity.
“Being the head coach of a national team (Italy), I think that right now for me it would be a bit… I wouldn’t say boring, but there is quite a lot of free time between international breaks… I understand the criticism as well, also because it comes at a moment where, due to many circumstances, Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup three times. So that probably has a stronger influence,” Cesc Fabregas said, via EFE.
At just 38 years old, Cesc is already one of the most promising coaches. Not only does he implement an attractive style of play, but he also promotes young talent. With Italy seeking a generational overhaul, Fabregas emerged as the strongest option, as he knows Italian soccer very well, which would represent a major boost for young talents like Francesco Camarda and could even help convince Nicolò Tresoldi, who currently plays for Germany’s youth setup.
Far from pursuing a similar profile to Fàbregas,the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) reportedly continues to prioritize Massimiliano Allegri, Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte. While they are world-class coaches, they tend not to favor young players, but rather experienced veterans. As a result, Italy may face challenges in achieving a generational transition—something they urgently need after failing to qualify for the World Cup for three consecutive tournaments.
Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas reacts salutes the fans at the end of the Serie A match.
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“I see it as difficult, honestly. I repeat, you never know in soccer. I’m very happy at Como, I hope to stay at Como, and I’ve lived soccer life as a player. When you start thinking too much about tomorrow, something is not right… I’m very attached to this project, to this city, to everything we are building… So, absolute calm, I’m very happy,” Fàbregas said, via EFE.
Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, Cesc could face a major challenge, as Real Madrid are reportedly aiming to bring back Nico Paz, the cornerstone of Como 1907. As a result, they may need to reshape their squad, seeking greater impact for the following season in European competitions. However, the Italian side appears well positioned to retain the Spanish coach, their greatest asset.
Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match.
Barcelona will be looking for an specific result to get through to the UEFA Champions League semifinals against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.
Barcelona travel to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in search of a comeback against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie. With the Colchoneros holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, the Blaugrana must produce a specific result to pull off one of the more memorable reversals in the club’s recent history.
The stunning 2-0 defeat at Camp Nou sent shockwaves through the Barcelona fanbase, and the Blaugrana will be without Pau Cubarsi for the second leg after his red card in the 45th minute of the first leg. Atletico have also taken steps to gain any available edge at their own ground, with the state of the Metropolitano pitch already drawing a complaint from Barca coach Hansi Flick ahead of the match.
Barcelona head into the game on the back of a morale-boosting 4-1 win over Espanyol in the Catalan derby, while Atletico come in off a 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened Sevilla, a result that carried little concern given Diego Simeone rested most of his first-choice starters ahead of Tuesday’s European clash.
How a Barcelona win affects the UEFA Champions League bracket
A victory for Barcelona on Tuesday would not automatically guarantee their passage to the next round. With Atletico holding a two-goal cushion from the first leg, a narrow one-goal win for the Blaugrana would still see the Colchoneros advance on aggregate.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona is challenged by Koke of Atletico de Madrid.
For Barcelona to advance directly, they would need to win by a margin of three or more goals to overcome the deficit in regulation. If they do manage to complete the comeback, the Blaugrana would face the winner of the other quarterfinal between Sporting CP and Arsenal in the semifinals, with the Gunners currently holding a 1-0 advantage heading into their second leg.
How a Barcelona draw affects the UEFA Champions League bracket
A draw in Tuesday’s match would see Barcelona eliminated from the 2025-26 Champions League, as the two-goal deficit from the first leg would prove insurmountable under a straightforward aggregate calculation.
However, if Barcelona were erase the two-goal deficit and draw in the average scoreline, the situation changes entirely. A 2-0 scoreline in favor of Barcelona, for example, would level the aggregate and send the tie to extra time, with a penalty shootout to follow if the teams remained deadlocked.
How a Barcelona loss affects the UEFA Champions League bracket
If Barcelona were to lose on Tuesday, they would be eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, falling short of the semifinals once again. Their last appearance at that stage came in the 2018-19 season against Liverpool, while a victory for Atletico would see the Colchoneros reach the Champions League semifinals for the first time since the 2016-17 campaign.
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After losing 2–0 to PSG, Liverpool are looking to stage a comeback in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals. However, the Reds not only need a win, but they are also forced into a specific scenario. Here, we will analyze the three possible outcomes of today’s match.
Despite being defeated in the first leg, Liverpool still keep their hopes alive for a comeback against PSG in the second leg of the 2025–26 Champions Leaguequarterfinals. Far from being a simple task, the English side not only need a win, as the 2–0 defeat shapes their path forward. With this in mind, the Reds require a specific scenario to secure their place in the semifinals of the tournament.
Paris Saint-Germain come in as clear favorites to beat the Reds. Not only are they coming off a dominant performance in the first leg, but they also have their key players in top form. In addition, coach Luis Enrique has imposed his authority on the game, relying on a high press that suffocates Liverpool in their build-up. Moreover, Désiré Doué and Vitinha are expected to be decisive in securing another victory in today’s match.
Unlike the first leg, coach Arne Slot could opt for a more offensive approach, looking to make the difference through Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai. In addition, they will aim to assert greater control in midfield by introducing Florian Wirtz to enhance their creative output, linking up with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch. With a comeback needed, Hugo Ekitike must play a key role in front of goal.
How could Liverpool’s win against PSG affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?
Even though Liverpool secure a victory over PSG, they would not immediately secure a place in the 2025–26 Champions League semifinals. Having lost 2–0 in the first leg, the Reds would need to win by a three-goal margin against the French side. If they manage to do so, they would face the winner of the tie between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. In that case, the English side would surpass their performances from the last three seasons in the competition.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris Saint-Germain goes around Giorgi Mamardashvili of Liverpool to score a goal.
How could Liverpool’s draw against PSG affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?
Being a two-leg format, Liverpool would be eliminated immediately if they draw against PSG. With a 2–0 deficit on aggregate, the Reds would have no way of reaching the Champions League semifinals. If they manage to defeat PSG by a two-goal margin, they would level the aggregate score, opening the door to compete for a place in the next round of the tournament.
As this is the second leg, a winner would have to be decided in extra time, with two periods of 15 minutes each. If there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where a definitive winner would be determined to face the winner of the tie between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
How could Liverpool’s defeat against PSG affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?
If Liverpool were to lose to PSG, they would be automatically eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League. This would mark the fourth consecutive season that the Reds have failed to reach the tournament’s final. The situation is quite different for the French side, as they would be reaching the semifinals for the third consecutive season and are favorites to advance to the final and seek their second consecutive title in the tournament.
Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool speaks with teammate Milos Kerkez.
Following their painful defeat in the first leg, Liverpool face PSG in the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinals, hoping for a much-needed comeback. As a result, fans are keeping a close eye on Mohamed Salah’s status, as his offensive contributions could prove vital.
Despite the defeat in the first leg, Liverpool will be aiming for a long-awaited comeback against PSG in the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinal second leg. Unlike the previous match, they will need to impose a dominant attacking display to overturn the two-goal deficit. Because of this, fans are closely monitoring Mohamed Salah’s status for today’s game, as his experience and attacking quality could prove decisive for the Reds.
Arne Slot has decided to bench again Mohamed Salah for the Reds today. While the veteran is in top form to make a difference against PSG, the head coach has decided to bet for a different set-up. Without his goal-scoring ability and explosive pace needed, Liverpool are expecting to counting on Hugo Ekitike‘s scoring prowess.
Without the Egyptian, the Reds could rely on Hugo Ekitike, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Florian Wirtz in attack. With this setup, they could look to exploit PSG by targeting the large spaces in behind their defense. With this being the only competition they still aspire to win, Liverpool arrive fully motivated, opting for a high-risk approach—they have little to lose, but a lot to gain.
Paris Saint-Germain come in as clear favorites to secure their place in the Champions League semifinals. Not only did they dominate offensively, but they also disrupted any progression from the Reds through an intense high press. In addition, coach Luis Enrique keeps his entire roster intact, which could allow him to stick to a very similar game plan, aiming to maintain control throughout the match.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool
Liverpool lineup vs PSG
Liverpool face PSG with several players out of the squad. Coach Arne Slot will be without Alisson Becker, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Giovanni Leoni, Stefan Bajcetic, and Curtis Jones. Despite this, the Reds are banking on a comeback, counting on Hugo Ekitike and Dominik Szoboszlai to lead the offense, while Van Dijk and Gravenberch will be tasked with providing overall stability to the team.
The Reds will lineup as follows: Giorgi Mamardashvili; Jeremie Frimpong, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister; Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz; Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak.
PSG lineup vs Liverpool
Unlike the Reds, PSG arrive with few absences in their squad, with only Fabian Ruiz and Quentin Ndjantou out. As a result, coach Luis Enrique has most of his roster available, so he could stick to a similar approach: An attacking approach with high pressure. To that end, the presence of Desiré Doué will be key, as will Vitinha and João Neves, who effectively stifle Liverpool’s offense.
The French side will play as follows: Matvey Safonov; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Warren Zaire-Emery, Joao Neves; Desiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool shows appreciation to the fans.
Karim Benzema missed a crucial penalty as Al Hilal were eliminated from the AFC Champions League Elite, and with the Saudi club now out of continental competition, the fallout could have consequences for Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr in the SPL title race.
Karim Benzema found himself at the center of a painful moment on Monday after missing a decisive penalty in Al Hilal‘s elimination from the 2025-26 AFC Champions League Elite quarterfinals. With their continental ambitions now extinguished, the fallout from that exit could have significant implications for Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Al Nassr.
At Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium, Al Hilal faced Qatari side Al Sadd in a rescheduled Round of 16 tie, part of a series of AFC fixtures in the western region pushed back from March. The game got off to a promising start for Al Hilal when Sergej Milinković-Savić opened the scoring in the 29th minute, but Al Sadd proved relentless in finding equalizers, with the two sides never separated by more than one goal in a pulsating 3-3 draw.
The compressed schedule that followed the rescheduling forced the AFC to switch the remaining knockout ties from two-legged affairs to single-match eliminations. With the score still level after 90 minutes, the game went to extra time and then to a penalty shootout to decide who advanced to the quarterfinals.
Roberto Firmino missed Al Sadd’s opening spot kick, leaving Al Hilal in the driving seat at 2-1, but Benzema then stepped up and sent his effort over the crossbar attempting to go top left. Al Sadd converted every remaining penalty, and with Saimon Bouabre also missing for Al Hilal, the Saudi side were eliminated 4-2 in the shootout.
Al Hilal refocus on the SPL after continental exit
The defeat to Al Sadd ended an otherwise unbeaten run for Al Hilal across both the AFC league phase and the Saudi Pro League in the 2025-26 season. With no international competition left to play for, Benzema’s side will now channel all of their energy into the domestic title race, a development that Al Nassr will be keeping a close eye on.
Al Sadd will face Japanese side Vissel Kobe on Thursday, April 16 at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, with the semifinals scheduled for April 20 and 21 and the AFC Champions League Elite final set for April 25. Freed from those continental demands, Al Hilal will now have no fixture congestion to manage heading into the critical final weeks of the SPL season.
Al Hilal’s next league match is not until April 28 against Damac FC, giving them a two-week window to rest, recover and sharpen up before resuming their title push. After a further fixture against Al Hazem on May 2, Benzema and Ronaldo will then square off on May 7 in what promises to be a defining Al Nassr vs. Al Hilal showdown that could go a long way toward deciding who lifts the Saudi Pro League trophy.
On the other side of the equation, Al Nassr still have AFC Champions League Two commitments to attend to, with a quarterfinal against Al Wasl on the horizon and potentially more rounds beyond that. Ronaldo has been largely absent from the club’s continental games, but the added fixture load could leave Al Nassr’s squad with more fatigue in their legs when that pivotal May 7 clash arrives.
That context gives Al Hilal a potential edge heading into the six-point encounter, having had significantly more rest in the buildup. Al Nassr currently hold a commanding lead with 73 points to Al Hilal’s 68, and a victory in that meeting could all but seal the title, setting up a Saudi Pro League finale where the championship could come down to the very last game of the season.
Karim Benzema (left) and Cristiano Ronaldo (right)
Ahead of the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick complained to a UEFA delegate over the pitch conditions at the Metopolitano.
Barcelona have arrived in Madrid for the second leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie against Atletico, looking to overturn a 2-0 deficit from the first leg. But head coach Hansi Flick has already encountered his first obstacle, lodging a complaint with a UEFA official over the condition of the playing surface at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
In footage captured by accredited media, Flick was visibly unhappy the moment he stepped onto the field. The Barcelona manager crouched down on multiple occasions to examine the grass up close, his body language leaving little doubt about his dissatisfaction with what he found.
After determining that the grass was too long and excessively dry, Flick wasted no time seeking out UEFA delegate Christian Kofoed of Denmark, who was stationed on the touchline. The German coach proceeded to make his concerns known directly to the representative in no uncertain terms.
Hansi Flick se queja del césped del Metropolitano a la UEFA. (Vía @eldesmarque).
Despite the clear frustration on display, Diario AS reports that Barcelona have not filed a formal complaint, with Flick’s remarks characterized as an observation that UEFA has acknowledged. Atletico Madrid, for their part, have reportedly pushed back against any suggestion that the pitch was in poor condition in the 24 hours leading up to kickoff.
Pitch conditions emerge as another obstacle for Barcelona
A dry surface creates significantly more friction as the ball rolls across it, causing it to slow down considerably compared to a wet pitch, and that factor cuts directly against Flick’s style of play. In La Liga, Barcelona lead all teams with 586 passes completed per game, and in the Champions League they rank fourth with 507, while also placing among the lower teams in long ball frequency, making the pace and smoothness of the playing surface a genuine competitive concern.
The dry conditions at the Metropolitano have already proven costly for Barcelona in this very stadium this season. In the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal, Atletico exploited an unexpected bounce on the pitch that caused goalkeeper Joan García to mishandle the ball, resulting in an own goal that opened a 4-0 victory for the hosts. It is precisely that kind of moment Flick will be desperate to avoid when the two sides meet again on Tuesday.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed some good news amid the Saudi Pro league title race with Iñigo Martinez returning from injury to Al Nassr training sessions.
Cristiano Ronaldo saw only good news since his return from injury, with Al Nassr finding a great form while their prosecutors dropped points over the last games. As part of yet another great update for the Portuguese star and the club, star defender Iñigo Martinez returned to the team trainings to continue the Saudi Pro League title race.
Al Nassr took Sunday off after Saturday’s win against Al Okhdood, and on Monday’s training session, Iñigo Martinez returned to group training. The Spanish defender made his way back after almost one month sidelined due to a tear in his hamstring.
With his return alongside his teammates, Iñigo Martinez has been confirmed as available for Al Nassr’s next game. For Matchday 29 of the SPL, Ronaldo and company will be hosting the game against Al Ettifaq on Wednesday, April 15th, to keep their historic winning streak of 14 wins going.
Due to this injury, Martinez missed the last two games against Al Najma and Al Okhdood, both teams siting at rock bottom of the table. With more challenging duels on the horizon, his return to the team will be key, but for the upcoming game, as reported by Al Arriyadiyah, head coach Jorge Jesus will have the last word on his presence.
Inigo Martinez in Al Nassr’s training session.
In the 5-2 win against Al Najma, coach Jesus remarked that the team wasn’t good defensively. “We were not good defensively today, especially at the back line. We missed Martínez, and that affected our defensive balance,” he said in the post match press conference, highlighting his importance on the team.
Cristiano Ronaldo and rest of starters with recovery exercises
In contrast with Iñigo Martinez and a limited group, Cristiano Ronaldo took part of the recovery routine and exercises alongside the players that started the last game against Al Okhdood. The focus and normal training sessions was more focused on non-starting players.
Since recovering from his hamstring injury, Ronaldo got subbed off in the 2 games he’s performed, though his form remains intact with three goals scored in that span. With six games left in the Saudi Pro League, and with Al Nassr sitting at the top with 73 points, managing his minutes will be key for both the title race, and also to reach fitness with the World Cup in less than two months.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and Inigo Martinez (R) of Al Nassr.
After his injury against Girona, Kylian Mbappe returned to Real Madrid training sessions with stitches in his forehead ahead of the UCL clash against Bayern Munich.
Kylian Mbappe raised concern by missing Real Madrid‘s training session on Sunday after picking up an injury against Girona on Saturday, but the Frenchman was back on the training pitch Monday, sporting stitches above his eyebrow as he prepares for the second leg against Bayern Munich.
One of the most contentious moments of last weekend’s La Liga action came during Real Madrid‘s 1-1 draw with Girona at the Santiago Bernabeu. In the 88th minute, Vitor Reis caught Mbappe with an elbow while attempting to mark him inside the box, opening a wound that caused heavy bleeding and required immediate medical attention.
Referee officials ruled the contact unintentional, declining to award a penalty, a decision that drew significant frustration from the Real Madrid camp. Mbappe was able to see the match out, but two days later he was absent from training when the squad returned to work.
In the interim, Mbappe posted a photo on his Instagram account showing him receiving medical attention on the affected area, without any caption. The update confirmed he had received three stitches above his right eyebrow.
Having been kept off the pitch on Sunday for further assessment, Mbappe was back training alongside his teammates at the Valdebebas training complex on Monday. With 39 goals in 28 appearances for Real Madrid this season, his presence will be critical as Los Blancos look to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Bayern Munich.
Kylian Mbappe set to feature against Bayern Munich
With the immediate concern now behind him, Mbappe’s availability for Wednesday’s second leg against Bayern is not in doubt. However, precautions are being taken to ensure the striker does not risk aggravating the injury during the match.
According to Diario AS, while Mbappe is still experiencing some discomfort in the area, the use of a protective mask has already been ruled out. That said, the club is working internally to provide him with some form of protection to guard the affected area during the game.
Following an impressive debut with Olympique Lyon, Real Madrid have reportedly decided to bring Endrick back, teaming him with Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé. Consequently, los Blancos might allow another offensive star to depart in an effort to balance the roster.
After struggling for playing time under Xabi Alonso, Endrick and Real Madrid have reportedly agreed to a loan move to boost his 2026 World Cup chances with Brazil national team. Seizing this opportunity, the 19-year-old striker has thrived at Olympique Lyon. As a result, Los Blancos reportedly plan to count on his return for the 2026-27 season, joining Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé in the attacking line.
According to Mario Cortegana, via The Athletic, Real Madrid have decided to count on Endrick for the 2026–27 season. With this, the Brazilian would end his loan spell at Olympique Lyon at the end of the season, in order to become part of Los Blancos’ attacking line. Despite this, he may not be an undisputed starter, but instead earn playing time as a backup to Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappé, though with a more prominent role than in his previous spell.
With Endrick’s return reportedly decided, Los Blancos have opted not to count on Gonzalo García. Although the Spaniard impressed at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, he has not managed to secure a place in the team’s rotation. In an effort to prioritize his development, Real Madrid would look to sell him so he can gain playing time, while still maintaining control over his future through a buy-back clause, a percentage of any future sale, or a right of first refusal.
Unlike Gonzalo García, the Brazilian striker may be compatible with Vinicius and Kylian Mbappé.Having a privileged vision and creative capacity, Endrick could become a wildcard for Real Madrid’s offense. In his Ligue One tenure, he has scored three goals and contributed five assists in eleven games, proving to be differential. For that reason, he could emerge as a solid boost to the offense, as they have battled to perform this season without the Frenchman.
Olympique Lyon star Endrick, loaned by Real Madrid.
Endrick’s comeback may lead a Real Madrid’s offense rebuild
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Real Madrid have experienced quite inconsistent performances from several of their players. Not only Gonzalo García but also Franco Mastantuono and Rodrygo Goes have been relegated to secondary roles. Because of this, Los Blancos could take advantage of Endrick’s return to lead a rebuild of their attack, allowing some players to leave in order to maintain balance.
In case Endrick’s arrival is confirmed, Gonzalo García would leave the team permanently, with Como 1907 in Serie A showing interest, along with clubs from England, Germany, Spain, and Portugal, according to Fabrizio Romano. Alongside him, Franco Mastantuono could seek a loan move after losing his place to Brahim Díaz and Federico Valverde in the rotation.
Rodrygo Goes seemed destined to leave Real Madrid, as he went from an undisputed starter to a rotational player. However, his ACL injury could complicate his departure, as he may look to fully recover at Los Blancos and then decide his future. Because of this, the team’s reinforcements seem likely to focus on defense and midfield, leaving only Endrick’s return as the main attacking addition for the next season.
Endrick of Olympique De Lyon, Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid.
Despite his historic season, Ousmane Dembélé’s future at PSG appears quite uncertain, as he is reportedly refusing to renew his contract. As a result, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner has two potential destinations: the Premier League and the Saudi Pro League.
Ousmane Dembélé managed to make history at PSG, leading the club to its first UEFA Champions League title. Following this, the Frenchman won the 2025 Ballon d’Or, achieving a historic milestone for the team. Despite this, his future at the club is not guaranteed, as he is reportedly refusing to extend his contract. With no agreement yet reached, the 28-year-old star already has potential destinations lined up: The Premier League and the Saudi Pro League.
According to L’Équipe, PSG and Ousmane Dembélé have decided to pause contract extension talks, making it clear there is still time, as his current deal runs until 2028. Instead, the French side has chosen to prioritize the renewals of Senny Mayulu and Bradley Barcola, whose contracts expire in 2027 and 2028 respectively. In addition, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner is reportedly not fully accepting the contractual offer on the table.
Following his historic season, Paris Saint-Germain acknowledge that Dembélé deserves a salary increase. However, president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has made it clear that the club will not break its wage structure, unlike in the cases of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Neymar. As a result, the French side are open to reassessing his future in the event of an early elimination, or keeping him as a cornerstone if he shines again and helps secure the title reports L’Équipe.
Given his uncertain contractual situation, Ousmane Dembélé could be set for a move to the Premier League, with several clubs monitoring a potential transfer. In addition, Saudi Pro League teams have joined the interest, having made multiple approaches throughout the season. However, the Frenchman has decided to pause any renewal or transfer talks until after the 2026 World Cup, where a standout performance could ultimately define his future.
Ousmane Dembele lifting the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Dembélé wages could rule out most Premier League clubs
Unlike other leagues, Premier League clubs maintain strong investment capacity, allowing them to handle multimillion-dollar transfers. Because of this, the Frenchman could fit into most English top-flight teams. However, Ousmane Dembélé reportedly holds salary expectations above €50 million, which would significantly limit his options to only a very small number of clubs.
Over the past few years, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool have been the only Premier League sides capable of offering salaries above €20 million per season, alongside extremely high transfer fees. For this reason, Dembélé would realistically only fit into these teams, with the Reds and the Red Devils best positioned, as they are set to lose their top earners: Mohamed Salah and Casemiro.
Ousmane Dembélé might find his ideal salary in Saudi Arabia
Despite the fact that the potential arrival of Ousmane Dembélé represents a major opportunity for several teams, they could struggle to meet his extremely high salary expectations. Nevertheless, the Frenchman could have an ideal solution: Saudi Pro League. As one of the most financially powerful leagues, they could make him a tempting offer to the 2025 Ballon d’Or candidate, reaching up to the €60M per season he is reportedly demanding.
Being a well-known Muslim, Dembélé’s potential arrival would have a major cultural impact, becoming a reference point for local fans. In addition, the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo, along with the possible arrival of Mohamed Salah, could further raise the league’s profile, drawing renewed attention from fans. However, they have not yet submitted a formal offer, according to L’Équipe.
Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain during the UEFA Champions League.
While hoping for his presence in the 2026 World Cup, Lamine Yamal addressed Neymar's influence on Barcelona's preparation for the comeback in the UEFA Champions League against Atletico Madrid.
Lamine Yamal has been the loudest voice coming out of FC Barcelona over the past week as the club gears up for a potential historic comeback against Atletico Madrid in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. With the second leg just one day away, the 18-year-old star drew on the influence of Neymar as a source of inspiration and made a heartfelt plea for the Brazilian to be at the World Cup.
Before nodding to LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2016 comeback, another landmark reversal closer to Barcelona’s own history was the one engineered by Neymar against PSG in the 2016-17 season. By scoring a brace and delivering the winning assist for Sergi Roberto, the Blaugrana completed one of the most iconic comebacks in sports history, and the scenario Barcelona now face against Atletico carries a strikingly similar feel.
At Monday’s press conference, Yamal was asked whether he had revisited that iconic Neymar performance for inspiration, and the young star was effusive in his praise for his idol: “I have seen it many times; I have seen it live as well. Neymar is a player who defined my entire childhood—he is my idol—and I will always be grateful for what he has given to football.“
Yamal then went a step further, expressing his hope that Neymar would be part of the 2026 World Cup. “I believe he inspires us all. He is the kind of player you pay for a ticket to see; three days would pass after a match, and you’d watch it again just to see his plays. I want to thank him for what he has given to the game, and I hope he can be at the World Cup,” he concluded.
Lionel Messi and Neymar of Barcelona celebrate against PSG in 2017.
Despite frequently drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi due to his playing style, Yamal has consistently been eager to highlight Neymar’s influence on his development. The Spanish teenager had the chance to meet his idol in person back in June 2025, just before the start of the current season.
Although Yamal was Barcelona‘s brightest spark in the first leg, Atletico stayed compact and goalkeeper Juan Musso produced a series of outstanding saves to keep him off the scoresheet. Now heading to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the Blaugrana must wipe out a two-goal deficit from the opening whistle, a challenge Yamal is embracing with the same belief that has fueled some of the great comebacks in the club’s history.
Yamal eager to make his mark in the second leg
Despite being reduced to ten men for the entire second half of the first leg, Barcelona still dominated possession and created chances, with Yamal often at the center of their most dangerous moments. Far from feeling weighed down by the pressure of being the team’s go-to player, the teenager sees it as fuel.
Yamal shared his mindset heading into the match and made clear just how much he is relishing the moment: “I’m very excited. I’ve always said that at the start of the season, my level was questioned a lot because of my pubalgia, and I like it when these moments arrive because this is when the real players show up. I’m really looking forward to tomorrow.“
Yamal has already proven he can deliver on the biggest stages, scoring against France and setting up the winner against England in Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, and leading Barcelona’s attack in last season’s Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan despite the eventual defeat. With the weight of the occasion on his shoulders at just 18 years old, Yamal appears ready to rise to it once more.
Lamine Yamal (L) of FC Barcelona and Neymar Jr (R) of Santos.
Following a big win in the first leg, Atlético Madrid are the clear favorite to secure another victory in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Moreover, captain Koke has sent a strong message to Barcelona ahead of the match, reveling their tactical approach.
Atlético Madrid stunned Barcelona with a 2–0 victory at the Spotify Camp Nou. Far from adopting a defensive mindset, Los Colchoneros came out to impose their attacking strength, taking advantage of Barcelona’s lack of control in midfield. Rather than considering the tie settled, captain Koke issued a warning to the Blaugranas ahead of the second leg, offering hints about their tactical approach ahead the Champions League quarterfinals second leg.
“This is a match that could go down in Champions League history. It’s a historic game for the club, and we are focused on this match, not the Copa final. We’re approaching it like a final. We’re going there to win it… My teammates are highly motivated. It’s normal that they (Barcelona players) believe they can come back. The opposite would be strange…with the desire to play a great match against a strong opponent, in our stadium,” Koke said in the latest press conference.
Even though they hold a comfortable advantage on the scoreboard, Koke’s words suggest they will not sit back and defend. Unlike in previous seasons, Los Colchoneros have shown that their best version comes when they take an aggressive, high-risk approach, with Ademola Lookman and Giuliano Simeone dominating the flanks. With this in mind, they will look to extend their lead rather than protect it.
While Lamine Yamal has opted to challenge coach Diego Simeone over his dominance in one-on-one situations, they have decided to stick to their approach: Securing the victory. However, Los Colchoneros could look to apply tight marking on the 18-year-old star, limiting his ability to make an impact in attack. In addition, they will aim to exploit the space behind Barcelona’s defenders with their quick counterattacking style.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid.
Atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone faces key absentees vs. Barcelona
Ahead of the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Atlético Madrid arrive with a clear advantage, holding a two-goal lead on aggregate. In addition, coach Diego Simeone regains Pablo Barrios, Johnny Cardoso, and Jan Oblak, providing a significant boost. However, they also face a major setback, as they will be without three absences that could prove decisive in the match against Barcelona.
Coach Diego Simeone will be without three high-level center-backs: Marc Pubill due to accumulated yellow cards, as well as José María Giménez and David Hancko, who did not take part in the latest training session due to fitness issues. Without them, Los Colchoneros lose defensive reliability, leaving everything in the hands of Robin Le Normand and Clément Lenglet, who have tended to make mistakes from game to game.
Taking advantage of these absences, the Blaugranas could look to apply sustained high pressing. In doing so, they may force errors in the build-up, putting Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski in prime positions to score and chase the comeback. However, Los Colchoneros could also aim to reduce their opponent’s influence by adopting an attacking approach that forces Barcelona to proceed with caution.
Koke of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring a goal.
Far from feeling pressure to stage a comeback, Lamine Yamal has appeared quite confident in Barcelona ahead of the match against Atlético Madrid. The Spaniard star has even warned Diego Simeone about his strong form in one-on-one duels.
Despite arriving as clear favorites, Barcelona suffered a surprising defeat against Atlético Madrid. As a result, the Blaugranas find themselves in a difficult position for the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinals, needing to overturn a two-goal deficit. Nevertheless, Lamine Yamal has shown strong confidence in a comeback, warning Atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone about putting him in one-on-one duels.
“Barça have been chasing the Champions League for many years, we’re eager to get through to the next round, and we are Barça—we’ll give it everything… I feel very good, really looking forward to tomorrow’s match. I’m motivated for it and hope I can make the difference. Let’s see if Cholo does me a favor and sets me up for a one-on-one with a defender—I hope so,” Lamine Yamal said in the latest press conference.
Facing a two-goal deficit, Lamine Yamal knows they’ll need to mount a powerful offensive against Atlético Madrid. Far from being intimidated by this challenge, he has already made it clear that he’s looking forward to one-on-one situations to showcase his offensive prowess and shine. Incidentally, he implies that if los Colchoneros opt for an offensive approach, his team will have the advantage in one-on-one matchups with their players.
Looking ahead to the second leg, the Blaugranas have decided not to rely solely on Lamine Yamal, revels the youngster in press conference. “There are some really talented players—world-class veterans who prove it year after year. I don’t think it’s just about me, and even if it were, I wouldn’t care.” While he is their most influential player, they are counting on veterans like Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, and Dani Olmo to step up.
Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal, of FC Barcelona.
Hansi Flick may bench Marcus Rashford to restore midfield dominance
Although Barcelona suffered a surprise defeat against Atlético Madrid, they managed to remain the dominant team on the field, though they showed serious problems in midfield. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal dominated down the wings, though they failed to convert their scoring opportunities. Given this, coach Hansi Flick might bench the Englishman, opting instead for a lineup he has used in previous games.
At the latest press conference, Hansi Flick revealed key details of his game plan for the second leg against los Colchoneros. “Everyone on the team needs to be involved and connected, and defend as a unit. When we don’t have the ball, we need to close down spaces and stay compact—that’s how we want to play soccer.” With this in mind, Marcus Rashford starting spot might be in danger to Dani Olmo.
Even though the Englishman had several runs and occasions in the first leg, he constantly lost the possession of the ball. For that reason, Atlético Madrid got the chance to dominate in the counterattack. To avoid this, the German coach may bet for Dani Olmo, coupled with Fermin Lopez to bolster midfield dominance, with numerical superiority. Moreover, they could help Pedri and Frenkie de Jong in the base.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona and Diego Pablo Simeone, Head Coach of Atletico de Madrid.
Despite his strong start to the season, Rafael Leão is not going through his best moment at AC Milan, having gone more than a month without scoring. Following this, fans booed him in the latest defeat, which has reportedly led the Portuguese to decide to leave the Rossoneri.
At the start of the 2025–26 season, Rafael Leão emerged as the team’s most decisive player, leading the scoring charts following Christian Pulisic’s drop in form. However, the Portuguese is not going through his best run, having more than one month without scoring. After having received boos from the fans in the team’s latest defeat, he has reportedly decided to leave AC Milanat the end of the season.
According to Andrea Ramazzotti, via La Gazzetta dello Sport, Rafael Leão felt very mistreated by the boos from the fans. Not only has he been playing several matches with pubalgia, but he is also playing out of position. Despite this, the Portuguese does not feel valued by the supporters for his great efforts for the team, further opening the door to a potential departure in the summer of 2026.
While Leão shone as a world-class left winger, Massimiliano Allegri has not managed to fit him into his system. With his 3-5-2 setup, he has had to adapt to playing as a center forward or second striker—positions that are not natural for him and are being used for the first time in his career. With no indication that the system will change, the coach seems determined to stick with it, leaving the Portuguese without an ideal role at the Rossoneri.
Despite his poor form at the Rossoneri, coach Allegri has chosen to publicly defend him, highlighting his improvements in the game. However, Rafael Leão has not been able to return to his best version, as he has no way of playing with the same prominence as a left winger, something that does not seem likely to change. For this reason, he could force a departure, seeking a team where he can thrive with his pace and dribbling.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan
Report: Rafael Leão is attracting interest from the Premier League
Throughout his professional career, Rafael Leão has proven to be one of the best left wingers in the world. Under head coach Stefano Pioli, the Portuguese was in peak form, excelling both as a dribbler and a goalscorer, surpassing 10 goals and 10 assists. While he has not managed to shine under coach Allegri, he is still reportedly attracting interest from the Premier League, where his playing style would stand out.
As a fast player with outstanding dribbling ability, Leão is attracting attention from Manchester United, as he is seen as an ideal complement to their attack. In the event of a €40–50M offer (around $46–58M), the Rossoneri would be open to his transfer to the Red Devils, as he is no longer considered untouchable and his relationship with the fans is not at its best, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
If he were to regain prominence as a left winger, Rafael Leão could once again become one of the most impactful players in soccer world. In addition, the high tempo of the Premier League could suit his style of play, giving him opportunities to rediscover his best version. However, the Portuguese is also reportedly attracting interest from Saudi Arabia, presenting another potential option.
With just a few months to go before the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi seemed to suffer a major setback with Argentina, as Cristian Romero appeared to have picked up a serious injury. However, he has received an injury update that gives him hope of making it to the anticipated tournament.
After shining in the CONMEBOL Qualifiers, Argentina stand out as one of the national teams favored to win the 2026 World Cup, aiming for their second consecutive title. However, Lionel Messi seemed to suffer a major setback, as Cristian Romero went off injured in tears in Tottenham Hotspur’s latest match. Despite this, the Argentinean defender’s injury extent has reportedly been revealed, keeping his hopes of reaching the anticipated tournament alive.
According to Martín Arevalo, covering ESPN Argentina, Tottenham Hotspur star Cristian Romero has been diagnosed with a knee injury, leaving him out for 5–8 weeks. Moreover, Gastón Edul, specialist covering Argentina national team, reports that he does not have collateral ligament tear, avoiding surgery. Nonetheless, the defender will not play with the English team this season, leaving them in a sensitive spot.
CUTI OUT VARIAS SEMANAS @CutiRomero2 tiene una lesión en la rodilla que le demandará entre 5 y 8 semanas de recuperación. Dentro de la mala noticia que es que un futbolista se lesione, para la Selección es una buena noticia porque uno de sus mejores jugadores llega al Mundial. pic.twitter.com/U4SM4Czdoy
As a defensive cornerstone for Lionel Messi’s national team, his potential participation in the anticipated tournament would be a significant boost. Not only was he key to the 2022 World Cup title, but he also remains one of the leaders in the dressing room. However, coach Scaloni will be the one to decide whether to call him up, as his match fitness could become an issue for the opening games of the tournament.
Alongside Nicolás Otamendi, Cristian Romero has led a great era for Argentina, winning two Copa América titles and a World Cup with them at the back. In addition, Lisandro Martínez also emerges as a key figure for Lionel Messi’s side, providing stability to the team. For this reason, head coach Scaloni could opt to call him up, aiming to give him minutes so he can reach full fitness, as he is key both on and off the pitch.
Cristian Romero of Argentina fights for the ball with Jonathan Osorio of Canada.
Cristian Romero’s absence may truly affect Tottenham Hotspur
Unlike previous seasons, Tottenham Hotspur are going through the worst moment in their history. After dismissing Ange Postecoglou, Thomas Frank, and Igli Tare, they find themselves fighting to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship. Because of this, Cristian Romero’s absence could prove to be the definitive blow to their season, leaving everything in the hands of Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven.
In case his injury extend is confirmed, Cristian will miss the remainder of the season with his club. With only five matches left, the Argentine may not return in time to help avoid relegation under Roberto De Zerbi. As a result, they will have to place their season in the hands of Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven, moving closer to the EFL Championship than to staying in the Premier League.
Cuti Romero no tiene rotura del ligamento colateral pero tiene una lesión. No necesita operación pero si recuperación. Por lo menos seis semanas. Van a ir evaluando su evolución. No va a jugar más en Tottenham en esta temporada. pic.twitter.com/Oji1tSrCul
Oppo claims that its new A6s Pro midranger lets you text even during a monsoon downpour. The Super Rain Touch feature seemingly goes further than the currently available Aqua or Rain wet touchscreen technologies, pending actual testing after the April 14 launch.
The dreams of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney reaching the Premier League could still be fulfilled this season as head coach Phil Parkinson stated that Wrexham's playoff hopes are "not over yet."
Wrexham have endured a rough stretch of results at the worst possible time, with back-to-back defeats putting pressure on their push for promotion to the Premier League. To keep the dream alive for owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, head coach Phil Parkinson delivered a defiant message after the latest setback, insisting the playoff hopes are “not over yet.“
The Hollywood duo made no secret of their Premier League ambitions after three consecutive promotions, but the EFL Championship has proven to be the stiffest test yet in terms of the quality of opposition. A 2-2 draw against West Brom followed by heavy defeats to Southampton, 5-1, and most recently Tom Brady’s Birmingham City, 2-0, have seen Wrexham slip to seventh place and out of the automatic playoff positions.
Parkinson did not shy away from the reality of the situation when addressing the media after the Birmingham defeat on Sunday: “We’ve had a tough week this week. But we’re not down and out yet. It’s not over yet. People will probably write us off and you can understand that to a certain degree, but inside the dressing room, we’re not writing ourselves off and we’re one win away from getting ourselves going again.“
Since their FA Cup elimination against Chelsea in early March, the Red Dragons have managed just two wins, one draw and four defeats in seven Championship outings. With 15 goals conceded across those matches, the inability to register a single shot on target against Birmingham laid bare some of the attacking concerns that have crept into Wrexham’s game during this difficult run.
Carlos Vicente of Birmingham City scores his team’s first goal past goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham.
Parkinson also addressed the team’s struggles in front of goal in his post-match press conference. “In every game this season, we’ve carried a threat. We’ve been a goal threat even against Premiership teams in the cup. Today, we just couldn’t find a way to produce that quality. I think the biggest problem we’ve had today is coming on the back of a defeat, and we haven’t had many back-to-back defeats,” he said, a sentiment that rang especially true given it marked the first time Wrexham had lost consecutive matches since August 2025.
What’s next for Wrexham in the final sprint?
Since the start of March, Wrexham’s form has dipped considerably from the level they had shown throughout the season, but a playoff place remains within reach. Reynolds and McElhenney‘s side currently sit seventh with 64 points from 42 games, four points behind Hull City, who occupy the sixth and final playoff spot.
After two consecutive defeats, Wrexham will need to regroup quickly with just four games remaining in the regular season. Their April schedule includes trips to Stoke City, Oxford United and Coventry City, before the campaign closes on May 2 against fourth-placed Middlesbrough, a match that could prove decisive in determining whether the Red Dragons make the playoffs or watch the promotion race from the outside looking in.
Ryan Reynolds and Robert McElhenney, Co-Owners of Wrexham.
Distancing from a potential move to Cristiano Ronaldo's SPL, Bruno Fernandes has made his intentions clear on 'competing' at Manchester United.
Bruno Fernandes was one of the most intriguing names of last summer’s transfer window, with the midfielder coming genuinely close to making a move to the Saudi Pro League. Now, the prospect of another high-profile Portuguese arrival alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in the Middle East appears increasingly remote, as Fernandes has made clear his focus is firmly on “competing” at Manchester United.
Al Hilal mounted a serious push to sign Fernandes in the summer of 2025, reportedly tabling a fee in excess of 100 million euros and dangling a salary in the region of £700,000 per week. The midfielder even held conversations with Cristiano Ronaldo about life in Saudi Arabia and the league itself, but ultimately relented under pressure from then-head coach Rúben Amorim and chose to remain part of United’s project despite the club’s persistent struggles.
In an interview with The Times, Fernandes was asked whether the two cup trophies claimed since his arrival were enough for a club of United’s stature. “Everyone who comes to Man United wants to win every trophy. No one thinks in coming to the club, ‘We’re going to fight for just one or two trophies in six years,’ let’s say. You want to fight for all of them. We went to three other finals and didn’t win. That can happen. But at least you’ve been in the fight. We were close,” he said.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2026-27 season, the question of his future will inevitably come back into focus, but Fernandes has laid out a clear set of conditions for staying. “And what I said to the club every time I spoke with them, what I want from the time I’m here, I just want to compete. Because if I compete, I will be close to winning. If I don’t compete, there’s no chance I’m going to get close to any silverware,” he added.
Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United celebrating.
Fernandes also addressed the financial allure of other leagues while making it clear that trophies, not money, are what drives his decision-making. “Money, you can get anywhere. A lot of clubs in the Premier League pay well, a lot of clubs in Italy, Spain, pay you a lot. You come to this club because of the history, because of what you think you can achieve,” he stated.
“(Whether) you end up achieving or not, that’s a question of you being better than the other teams. But what I always say to the club is you can’t promise me I’m going to win the Premier League, that’s impossible, but if you promise we’re going to be competitive — that’s all I need to know,” Fernandes concluded, in remarks that point more toward a continuation at Old Trafford rather than a move to the SPL.
Will Manchester United compete in the 2026-27 season?
Last season was one to forget for Manchester United, who suffered defeat in the Europa League final and finished 15th in the Premier League, the lowest top-flight finish in the club’s history. The campaign was further destabilized by the sudden departure of Ruben Amorim midway through, but the team has since shown signs of steadying the ship and pushing toward the upper reaches of the table.
United currently sit third in the Premier League with 55 points from 31 games, putting them on track to return to the UEFA Champions League for the first time since the 2023-24 season. Set to turn 32 in September 2026, Fernandes will be entering the final year of his contract, with everything to play for both individually and collectively as he waits to see whether United can truly deliver on the promise of competing for the biggest prizes.
Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes and Al Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo.
After missing the last Aston Villa game, Argentina star goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martinez eased the concern over his participation in the 2026 World Cup with a positive injury update.
Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez sent alarm bells ringing on Sunday after being pulled from Aston Villa‘s starting lineup due to an injury, with the 2026 World Cup now less than two months away. Those fears were quickly put to rest, however, following a positive update on the Argentine goalkeeper’s condition.
Aston Villa were visiting Nottingham Forest in a crucial push for UEFA Champions League qualification, with Martinez named in the starting eleven. However, during the pre-match warmup, the Argentine was visibly uncomfortable while striking the ball, prompting the club to withdraw him from the lineup and hand the gloves to Marco Bizot.
The concern was swiftly alleviated when Argentine football insider Gaston Edul reported that Martinez’s withdrawal was purely precautionary. The discomfort in his left leg was entirely muscular in nature, with his calf feeling tight rather than pointing to any structural concern.
The decision to keep him out was made with more than just the national team in mind. Aston Villa face Bologna in the second leg of their Europa League quarterfinal next Thursday, and with Martinez so central to the club’s ambitions, the cautious approach was deemed the sensible call to protect him from any potential setback.
In other news, Emi Martínez also picked up an injury during the warm-up before kickoff. pic.twitter.com/q55h9TUUNn
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) April 12, 2026
Martinez has been a cornerstone of Argentina’s recent trophy haul, playing a defining role in the 2021 Copa America, producing crucial saves and a heroic penalty shootout performance at the 2022 World Cup, and repeating that heroics at the 2024 Copa America. While Juan Musso and Gerónimo Rulli are capable backup options, losing the Aston Villa goalkeeper to injury would represent a major blow to Argentina‘s aspirations heading into the tournament in North America.
Concern grows over Cristian Romero
While the anxiety surrounding Martinez has subsided, another key Argentina starter is now causing greater worry. Cristian Romero picked up a knock to his right knee during Sunday’s match against Sunderland, after being pushed from behind by striker Brian Brobbey and colliding with Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, forcing him off the pitch in the 70th minute.
The most troubling moment came as Romero left the field in tears, raising fears that the injury could be more serious than the initial impact suggested. With some instability detected in the knee, the defender will undergo medical tests on Monday to determine the extent of the damage to the ligaments, specifically to establish whether he had sustained a medial collateral ligament injury or whether the pain was simply the result of the collision itself.
While the star remains focused on his objective of reaching full fitness with Santos, Neymar's father and agent is reportedly set to hold talks with FC Cincinnati representatives to complete his move to the MLS.
Neymar has been linked with a blockbuster move to Major League Soccer, with FC Cincinnati emerging as the frontrunner to land his signature. While the Brazilian star continues working his way back to full fitness at Santos, his agent is reportedly set to hold talks with Cincinnati over a potential deal.
According to ESPN Brasil, Neymar’s father, who also serves as his agent and the primary manager of his business affairs, is awaiting a face-to-face meeting with FC Cincinnati to move the conversation forward. With the MLS club’s interest in the former Barcelona star confirmed as genuine, the meeting would represent a significant step in the early stages of negotiations.
The outlet reports that Neymar’s entourage intends to hold the meeting with Cincinnati’s representatives in person. While financial terms have not yet been disclosed, the primary objective of the gathering is to assess the viability of a deal, covering salary expectations and bonus structures.
The meeting is expected to take place in the coming days, with Cincinnati’s delegation aiming to make their case for Neymar to join the league after the World Cup, regardless of whether he ultimately features in the tournament. Club president and owner Jeff Berding and sporting director Chris Albright are among those set to make the trip, accompanied by a team of image rights specialists to help advance the discussions.
Neymar Junior of Santos competes for the ball with Ruan of Atletico Mineiro.
Neymar focused on returning to fitness
While speculation over his future continues to swirl, Neymar’s attention for now remains firmly on getting back to peak condition and earning a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup. Despite the noise surrounding his next move, the forward took the field for Santos last Saturday in a 1-0 win over Atletico Mineiro.
In an encouraging sign on the fitness front, Santos head coach Cuca expressed confidence that Neymar will be available for every upcoming fixture. “Neymar filled his tank, and Gabigol did too. They performed well in the match. It might have been their best game in terms of competitive and physical levels,” Cuca said after Saturday’s win.
“The trend is for him to keep playing; he doesn’t need to play the full 90 minutes. We’ll manage his workload so they are ready to go every three days,” the coach added. Santos face Recoleta on Tuesday in the Copa Sudamericana, followed by Fluminense next Sunday and Coritiba on the 22nd in the Copa do Brasil.
The optimism comes at a critical time, as questions have lingered over whether Neymar would be able to withstand the physical demands of a World Cup, where teams can be required to play every three to four days. Notably, Neymar has not played four matches within a three-day window since July of last year, making the upcoming fixture run a significant test for a player who was once considered among the very best in the world.
After a successful tenure, Mohamed Salah has decided to leave Liverpool, forcing the club to look for a replacement for next season. In response, the Reds are reportedly pursuing the signing of Eli Junior Kroupi in an $80M move in the summer of 2026.
Unlike last season, Liverpool are struggling to shine, remaining far from winning the Premier League. In addition, Mohamed Salah has announced his departure from the team at the end of the season, following his inconsistent performances and issues with head coach Arne Slot. Looking to replace his absence, the Reds are reportedly targeting Eli Junior Kroupi with an $80M transfer move in the summer of 2026.
According to Caught Offside, the Reds have shown considerable interest in Eli Junior Kroupi. In his first Premier League season with AFC Bournemouth, he is already making an impression with his impact on the field. Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, has a very good relationship with the club. However, negotiations between the two sides have not yet begun, but a transfer fee of around £60 million (around $80 million) is expected.
Not only are Liverpool interested in his transfer, but Chelsea are as well. Amid the uncertainty surrounding Enzo Fernández and the team’s inconsistencies, the Frenchman could be a decisive boost to their attacking ambitions. In addition, Alejandro Garnacho’s performances continue to fall short, opening the door to his departure. For this reason, the Reds would need to offer a very attractive sporting project and a prominent role to secure his arrival.
While Junior Kroupi has played as an attacking midfielder, he possesses great pace and dribbling ability, which gives him the option to play out wide. Moreover, Dominik Szoboszlai could occupy the right wing and Florian Wirtz the left, allowing the Frenchman to take the attacking midfield role. With this, Liverpool could aim to replace Mohamed Salah, who has announced his departure from Anfield after several years of making history.
Eli Junior Kroupi of AFC Bournemouth celebrates scoring a goal.
Report: Liverpool are also chasing Yan Diomande’s arrival
Even though Mohamed Salah is not enjoying his best season, the Egyptian has managed to score 11 goals and provide 9 assists in 36 matches. With this, he stands as Liverpool’s third top scorer. For this reason, the Reds feel compelled to reinforce their attack, targeting Eli Junior Kroupi. Nevertheless, they are also reportedly pursuing the arrival of Yan Diomande, looking to secure a more decisive reinforcement.
According to the Daily Mail, the Reds are also pursuing the signing of Yan Diomande. At just 19 years old, the Ivorian is already shining in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig. In 31 matches, he has scored 12 goals and provided 8 assists. As a pacey, dribble-oriented winger, he would fit perfectly with Salah’s profile, serving as a boost for Liverpool. However, they would have to pay €100M (around $116M) for his transfer.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Eli Junior Kroupi of AFC Bournemouth.
Cristiano Ronaldo found the back of the net once again, leading Al Nassr to a set a new record winning streak that boost the hopes of claiming the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title.
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to hit the ground running since returning from his hamstring injury, finding the net once again for Al Nassr as the club collected another three points in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League. In doing so, Al Nassr have broken a club record for consecutive wins, further fueling their title aspirations.
That win over Al Okhdood gave Al Nassr their 14th consecutive Saudi Pro League victory, setting a new club record for the longest winning streak in the competition’s history. The previous mark of 13 straight wins had stood since the 2013-14 season, and with Ronaldo as the centerpiece, the bar has now been raised.
The run began on January 17 with a 3-2 victory over Al Shabab, coming on the heels of a rough start to 2026 that had seen Al Nassr suffer three consecutive defeats. Since that turning point, the club has not dropped a single point in the SPL, scoring 39 goals and conceding just six across those 14 matches, showing marked improvement at both ends of the pitch.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr reacts.
Ronaldo missed four of those wins, two in February due to his boycott of the league and two more in March while sidelined with his hamstring injury. Still, across the 10 games in which he featured during the streak, the Portuguese legend made his presence felt with nine goals and one assist, a reminder that the transition from 40 to 41 years old has done little to diminish his impact.
A streak that carries good omens for Al Nassr
The three points against Al Okhdood did more than just extend the winning run; they also widened the gap between Al Nassr and their closest rivals. Ronaldo’s side now sits atop the SPL with 73 points from 28 games, five clear of second-placed Al Hilal, and the historical parallel is hard to ignore.
In the 2013-14 season, that previous record streak of 13 wins ran from Matchday 10, when Al Nassr beat Al Hilal 2-1, through to Matchday 22 and a 2-1 victory over Al Ettifaq. Crucially, the last time Al Nassr put together such a dominant winning run, they went on to lift the Saudi Pro League title, a fact that will not be lost on Ronaldo and his teammates as they chase their first league crown since the 2018-19 season.
Al Nassr still far from the all-time SPL record
Six games remain in the 2025-26 SPL campaign, and while Al Nassr will be looking to keep the streak alive, even a perfect run to the finish line would still leave them well short of the all-time record. That benchmark belongs to Al Hilal, who put together a staggering 24 consecutive league victories during the 2023-24 season, a campaign they ultimately crowned with the title under the management of current Al Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus.
Despite their consistent season, Arsenal have put the Premier League title at risk, placing Mikel Arteta’s future in doubt. In response, the Gunners have reportedly identified Cesc Fàbregas as his natural successor under certain conditions.
Mikel Arteta’s arrival completely reshaped Arsenal’s reality. After several years of underperformance, they managed to become one of the best teams in the Premier League. Not only do they impose an attractive style of play, but they are also among the league leaders. Nevertheless, the Spaniard does not have his future at the club fully secured, as Cesc Fàbregas emerges as an alternative for the head coach position.
According to Diario AS, the Gunners have issued an ultimatum to Mikel Arteta.If the Spaniard fails to lead the team to a Premier League or Champions League title, he would be dismissed. While the team has shown notable progress, they have not fully established themselves despite making multimillion investments such as Viktor Gyökeres and Kai Havertz. In this context, they have reportedly already identified a natural successor.
After shining at Como 1907 in Serie A, Cesc Fàbregas is seen as the ideal replacement. Not only was he a Gunners legend, but he is also impressing with his impact in Italy. Although his spell at Chelsea affected his legacy, the front office would be open to pursuing his arrival, as he would bring a similar philosophy to Arteta’s, ensuring continuity in the sporting project. With his arrival, Arsenal would aim to dominate the English league again.
Cesc Fàbregas has not only avoided relegation with Como 1907, but has also implemented an attractive style of play. Alongside Nico Paz and Máximo Perrone, they have been competitive in Serie A, reaching European competition spots despite being promoted just over two years ago. Although the Spanish coach is under contract until 2028, he could be open to leaving the club, seeking a triumphant return to the Premier League—this time as a manager.
Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas reacts salutes the fans at the end of the Serie A match.
Report: Cesc Fàbregas also caught Real Madrid’s attention
Although Cesc Fàbregas has only two years of professional experience as a coach, his talent has also caught the attention of Real Madrid. Following the departure of Xabi Alonso and the uncertainty surrounding Álvaro Arbeloa, the Spaniard emerged as a candidate to become the permanent coach for the 2026–27 season. While his impact was compelling, he ultimately ended up being ruled out for a key reason.
According to Mario Cortegana in The Athletic, the Spanish coach and his staff were present at the Santiago Bernabéu to watch Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich. With this, Los Blancos showed their interest in his services. However, he was ultimately dismissed due to having a similar profile to Xabi Alonso: A more tactical and dominant coach, rather than a man-manager like Carlo Ancelotti.
While his profile is seen as an issue for Los Blancos, Cesc would fit perfectly at Arsenal. Unlike Real Madrid, the English side need a coach capable of developing young talent, much like Arteta does, making him a highly continuous option. However, they are looking for greater consistency in decisive moments of the season—something they have often lacked under Mikel—which is precisely where Fàbregas would be expected to deliver.
Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, and Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas.
Targeting a comeback in the UEFA Champions League against Atletico Madrid, FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal made a nod to NBA legend LeBron James.
Lamine Yamal was one of the few bright spots in a flat Barcelona performance that ended in a 2-0 home defeat to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at Camp Nou. Now eyeing a historic comeback on the road, the 18-year-old has stoked the fires ahead of the second leg with a pointed nod to NBA legend LeBron James.
Despite the disappointing result, Yamal quickly shook it off by finding the net in a 4-1 win over Espanyol last Saturday in the Catalan derby. With the second leg now looming at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, he has made clear he has no intention of accepting the tie as lost, embracing the challenge of overturning the deficit on enemy turf.
In a telling move on social media, Yamal swapped his Instagram profile picture to an image of LeBron James celebrating the 2016 NBA title. That was the year James returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers following his championship run with the Miami Heat and delivered the franchise its first ever title, earning Finals MVP honors in the process, with both trophies visible in the image Yamal chose as his profile picture.
The context of that NBA Finals series adds another layer to the message. The Cavaliers came back from 3-1 down against Stephen Curry’s Golden State Warriors, with James as the driving force behind one of the most stunning reversals in sports history. In choosing that image, Yamal is making his intentions clear, setting his sights on another special “Remontada,” this time in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid.
Lamine Yamal’s Instagram profile picture.
Yamal had already been vocal about his belief in a turnaround immediately after the first leg. “This isn’t over yet, Culers. We will give it our all in the second leg. Together as one, always,” he wrote on Instagram following the defeat.
Adding further reason for optimism, one of the last time Barcelona traveled to the Metropolitano in a high-stakes context, they came away with a convincing 3-0 victory. That came back in March 2024 in a La Liga clash, with goals from Joao Felix, Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres doing the damage, in a match where a then 16-year-old Yamal came on as a second-half substitute under coach Xavi Hernandez.
Yamal keeps breaking records
Goalkeeper Juan Musso was outstanding for Atletico Madrid in the first leg, denying Yamal and Barcelona on multiple occasions to preserve the clean sheet. The Spaniard bounced back in style against Espanyol on the weekend, and in doing so reached yet another milestone.
After going nearly a month and a half since his last goal for AC Milan, Rafael Leão has been booed by the fans. In response, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has decided to defend the Portuguese, acknowledging his improvement in certain aspects of his game.
Despite having had a solid start to the season, Rafael Leão’s performances in recent matches have come under criticism. Not only has he failed to score, but he has also not contributed at his usual creative level. Despite this, AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has stepped in to defend him from the fans, acknowledging his improvement in several aspects of the game in these recent matches.
“In the first half, he had two important chances as a striker. Then, when spaces get tight, it’s difficult to beat your man because he gets doubled up on. It’s not about Rafa or anyone else it’s about delivering different performances and being more patient defensively,”Allegri said, via DAZN Italy. Moreover, the Italian coach acknowledged that his condition is improving compared to previous games.
In the Rossoneri’s latest defeat, the Portuguese received constant boos from the fans, who strongly criticized his performance as a center forward. In the 76 minutes, he failed to score despite having eight shots to do so. In addition, Rafael has now gone a month and a half since his last goal, which came against Cremonese in Serie A. Alongside this, AC Milan have suffered two consecutive defeats, which does not help with the criticism.
Adrien Rabiot backs Allegri in defending Leao after whistles
Despite the fact that Christopher Nkunku, Niclas Füllkrug, and Santiago Giménez are the team’s center forwards, coach Massimiliano Allegri has chosen not to rely on them. Instead, Rafael Leão has been deployed as the team’s striker on several occasions, struggling to bring out his best version. Following the boos from fans in the last match, Adrien Rabiot has joined the coach in defending the Portuguese amid the criticism.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan.
“I can understand the boos, especially after such a heavy defeat. What disappointed me were the boos directed at Leão, because in my opinion we should support and help him that doesn’t help him. We’re all together until the end, so that was a bit unpleasant,” Adrien Rabiot said, via Sky Sports Italy.
Rafael Leão isn’t performing at his best for the Rossoneri—that’s a fact. However, the Portuguese player is playing in positions completely different from those in which he has excelled, having to adapt to playing as a second striker and even a center forward. Asking him to perform at his usual level might be unfair, since he isn’t getting playing time in his ideal position. With just a few games left in the season, he will still have Allegri’s support, just as he announced.
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri and Rafael Leao.
Amid a disappointing season, Liverpool are dealing with the departure of several veterans. Not only will Mohamed Salah leave the team, but Andrew Robertson will as well. Following this, he has revealed that he never received a contract renewal offer from the Reds.
After failing to win the Premier League and delivering a poor performance in the Champions League, Liverpool are preparing for further changes to their squad. Not only will Mohamed Salah leave the team at the end of the season, but Andrew Robertson will as well. After making his decision known, he has been completely honest about his departure after several years, revealing that he never received a contract renewal offer.
“It means I don’t need to lie to everyone (about my future) so it’s a weight off my shoulders… It’s not like I’ve knocked back a contract or anything, there was no contract on the table. It was a conversation we all had. It was a conversation of ‘okay, this is what I want to do, I want to play and I believe I’ve still got the ability to play’. I think I have showed that this season,” Robertson said, as per The Athletic.
Unlike the previous seasons, Andrew Robertson has lost his starting spot at the Reds to Milos Kerkez. While he still has playing time under coach Arne Slot, the Scottish ranks as a backup role, as he does not shine offensively as in previous seasons. For that reason, the English team decided to let him leave as free agent, as he may still look for a starting role in the Premier League.
Instead, Liverpool could recall Konstantinos Tsimikas, who is on loan at AS Roma and is under contract until 2027, meaning he might have to sign a one-year extension. With this, Kerkez would remain as the undisputed starter, with the Greek player serving as a backup in case of injury. However, the Reds lose an undisputed leader in the locker room without the Scot, a group already weakened by the announced departure of Mohamed Salah.
Andrew Robertson of Liverpool shows appreciation to the fans.
Liverpool may face a significant loss of locker-room leaders
Even though Arne Slot led Liverpool to a Premier League title in his debut season, they now face a difficult rebuild. In the current campaign, the head coach, along with the front office, opted for a new beginning, bringing in Milos Kerkez, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremy Frimpong, and Florian Wirtz. Now, the Reds are preparing for the departure of several dressing room leaders, which could complicate things.
Both Robertson and Salah will officially leave the Reds at the end of the season. As the second and third captains, respectively, the coach loses two key figures in the dressing room. Alongside them, Alisson Becker’s future is uncertain, as he reportedly has an offer from Juventus and is considering a move, with his contract set to expire in 2027. With this, head coach Arne Slot would lose three of four captains.
In case they were to lose all three for the 2026–27 season, Liverpool could become destabilized, as they would lack veteran leaders in their squad. In addition, they are not coming off their best season, raising further doubts about their overall performance. In this context, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch may have to step up to lead the dressing room alongside Virgil van Dijk.
Andrew Robertson of Liverpool during the Premier League match.
Although Alessandro Bastoni’s move to Barcelona appears complicated, the Italian could be edging closer to a transfer. Inter Milan have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Tarik Muharemovic ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Alessandro Bastoni’s future has been a topic of controversy. Although he is under contract with Inter Milan, he is reportedly looking to leave, with Barcelona being the main suitor for his signature. Although the Italian side considers him a cornerstone, they appear to be taking steps toward his departure, as they have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Tarik Muharemovic as his replacement.
According to Tuttosport, the Nerazzurri have reached an agreement to sign Tarik Muharemovic for next season. At just 23 years old, the Bosnian is one of the best left-footed center-backs in Serie A, having impressed at Sassuolo. However, the deal has not been finalized yet, so they are also keeping Oumar Solet (26, Udinese), Joel Ordóñez (21, Club Brugge), Mario Gila (25, Lazio), and Giovanni Leoni (19, Liverpool) on their list of priorities.
Far from being a minor detail, Inter Milan’s move suggests they could be open to selling Bastoni to Barcelona, securing a replacement first. The Italian defender could leave for €70 million (around $82 million) to the Spanish side, significantly higher than the previously speculated €50 million. Even so, Barcelona appear determined to pursue the deal, as he is viewed as a key difference-maker for Hansi Flick and his tactical setup.
Report: Bastoni and Inter Milan reach agreement ahead of his departure
After joining Inter Milan for €31 million in 2017, Alessandro Bastoni established as one of the team’s best players. However, the Italian is not experiencing his best moment in the country following his heavily criticized performances with the national team. In addition, Barcelona’s interest has made his potential departure more likely. As a result, the player has reportedly reached an agreement with the Nerazzurri over his exit.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter.
As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Milan and Alessandro Bastoni have decided to put any talks regarding his potential transfer on hold until they mathematically secure the Serie A title. However, the Italian defender remains keen on joining Barcelona, and once that objective is achieved, he is expected to push for a move to the Spanish side.
Barcelona reportedly chase alternatives amid Bastoni struggles
Although Barcelona continue to prioritize the signing of Alessandro Bastoni, they are already working on alternatives to strengthen their defense. Amid growing uncertainty surrounding the Italian’s potential move due to complications with Inter Milan, they have turned their attention to Luka Vušković. According to Diario AS, the 19-year-old Croatian, currently on loan at Hamburg from Tottenham Hotspur, is not willing to join the English side.
After impressing in the Bundesliga and emerging as a strong prospect for the 2026 World Cup, the Blaugranas have reportedly decided to pursue his signing. Moreover, he is keen on joining the Spanish side, which could facilitate the deal by putting pressure on his club to allow a departure, BILD reports. As a result, coach Hansi Flick would secure a defensive reinforcement, whether it be Bastoni or Vušković.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League.
After major inconsistencies throughout the season, Real Madrid are preparing to make several changes to their structure. As part of this, they are reportedly considering the return of Toni Kroos in a key role within the club’s sporting structure for the 2026–27 season.
Despite boasting a world-class roster, Real Madrid are not enjoying their best campaign, sitting second in LaLiga and struggling in the UEFA Champions League. In response, they are aiming for significant structural changes, seeking a major improvement in performance. With this in mind, Los Blancos are reportedly targeting a return for Toni Kroos in a sporting structure role ahead of the 2026–27 season.
According to José Félix Díaz of Diario AS, Los Blancos have fully decided to pursue a return for Toni Kroos. Far from being a return as a player, they want the German legend to take on a key role within the club’s sporting structure. However, no formal offer has been made yet, meaning there is still no clearly defined position, although they intend for him to hold significant influence.
With the potential return of Toni Kroos, Real Madrid could move toward a broader restructuring of their overall setup. As reported by Rodra of ESPN, Juni Calafat, the club’s head of scouting, does not have his continuity fully secured. Despite being the architect behind several world-class squads and signings, Los Blancos are considering sweeping structural changes, aiming to relaunch the project after the team’s recent inconsistencies.
Alongside Calafat’s possible departure, Los Blancos could also consider parting ways with José Ángel Sánchez. Having served as the club’s general director for many years, he is regarded as the right-hand man of president Florentino Pérez, influencing all areas of the organization. As per Iñaki Angulo, Real Madrid are evaluating his exit, as Anas Laghrari is gaining increasing prominence within the club’s structure.
Toni Kroos of Real Madrid looks on during a game.
Structural changes at Real Madrid could reshape sporting plans
Real Madrid could reshape their sporting project through these structural changes. Far from being minor adjustments, the potential departures of Juni and José Ángel are key, as they have been central figures in shaping the squad for several years. Without them, Los Blancos could opt to redirect the project, adjusting the next head coach or the club’s transfer targets for the 2026–27 season.
If Toni Kroos decides to return to Los Blancos, he could play a key role in sporting decisions. With significant uncertainty surrounding positions such as head coach and the possible departure of star players, these changes could be quite noticeable in the 2026–27 season. In addition, Real Madrid are reportedly looking to appoint a sporting director—something they have not had for several years—making these potential changes even more significant.
Toni Kroos receives The Golden Heart award during the "Ein Herz für Kinder" Gala.
The Netherlands’ RDW has granted type approval for Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised), allowing Dutch owners to use an EU-specific FSD software branch immediately. The stricter monitoring rules include continuous driver-attention tracking and temporary lockouts for inattentiveness.
After being a serious target of the MLS, Kevin De Bruyne has yet to decide his future once his deal expires at Napoli.
Kevin De Bruyne was one of MLS‘s primary targets during the final months of his time at Manchester City, though it was ultimately Napoli who landed his signature back in 2024. Now, the Belgian legend has admitted he has yet to make a decision on his future beyond the Italian club, leaving the door open for MLS to make another run at one of the game’s finest midfielders.
After his contract expired at Manchester City in June 2024, De Bruyne chose to remain in Europe rather than make the move to North America, signing with Napoli. In his first season, he became a central figure in Antonio Conte’s system, helping the club claim their fourth Scudetto in the 2024-25 season, but his longer-term future has been left unanswered.
In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, De Bruyne was asked whether Napoli would be his final club. “I don’t know that yet; I’m not thinking about it right now. I’m not that type of person. I still have a contract, and I’m truly happy in Naples. I’m trying to enjoy the moment now. I believe I can still play for a few more years, then when my body tells me to stop, I will. But for now, I feel good,” he said.
De Bruyne, currently 34, turns 35 in June and is under contract through the end of the 2026-27 season, by which point he will be 36. With more than a year remaining on his deal and a firmly established role at Napoli, a departure ahead of next season seems unlikely at this stage.
Kevin De Bruyne #7 of Belgium.
When asked about the prospect of retirement, De Bruyne left open the possibility of one more chapter in his playing career. “When will I stop? I really don’t know. Certainly, there will be nothing at first, because I’ll want to enjoy my family, who have made so many sacrifices for me. Then I’ll have to find something to do, obviously. In the near future, however, I just want to continue playing football, giving my best to stay at the highest level possible. I feel good, I’m happy, and my family is happy for me,” he said.
Although De Bruyne ultimately chose Napoli, Chicago are expected to still hold those discovery rights, and with Hugo Cuypers and Jonathan Bamba currently occupying two of the club’s three DP slots, there is room for a marquee addition. By the time his Napoli contract expires, De Bruyne will be 36, putting him in a similar position to Thomas Muller when he joined the Vancouver Whitecaps, and potentially making him the latest global name to make his mark in MLS.
Focused on Manchester United and in the 2026 World Cup, Harry Maguire has reportedly rejected a move to Lionel Messi's Inter Miami.
Harry Maguire has rediscovered his best form in recent months, catching the attention of Inter Miami as his contract at Manchester United approached its expiration in June 2026. While the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi was reportedly on the table, the English defender has chosen to remain at Old Trafford, with his focus firmly on both the club and the 2026 World Cup.
According to Transfermarkt and The Sun, Inter Miami were among the clubs interested in signing Maguire on a free transfer, along with Napoli. With the Herons dealing with a defensive crisis and still holding an available international roster spot, bringing in the England center back was seen as a viable solution to shore up the backline.
However, Maguire reportedly turned down Inter Miami’s approach and has instead agreed to a one-year contract extension with Manchester United. That option had always been available for the club to exercise, and following Maguire’s resurgent run of form, United wasted no time in making the announcement official, with still two months remaining in the current season.
As for Maguire, the defender expressed genuine enthusiasm about staying. “You can feel the ambition and potential of this exciting squad. The determination throughout the whole club to fight for major trophies is clear for everyone to see, and I am confident that our best moments together remain ahead of us,” he said in a statement on Manchester United’s official website.
Harry Maguire of England.
Maguire and a return to his highest level
After a turbulent stretch at Manchester United that saw multiple managers dismissed, the captaincy stripped from him and a near-move to West Ham in 2023, the tide has turned dramatically for Maguire. Back as a regular starter, he has been a key figure in United’s push to third place in the Premier League, a finish that would return the club to the Champions League for the first time since the 2023-24 season.
On the international front, Maguire has also worked his way back into England’s plans since September 2024. He featured in both the Uruguay and Japan friendlies during the March international break, and in an interview with The Athletic made clear just how motivated he is to be part of the World Cup squad.
“Whatever role the manager would want me for, whether that’s starting or deciding games late on, I still believe, even at my age, I’m arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes. I don’t think that’s open to question, really,” Maguire said, with Thomas Tuchel set to submit England’s final World Cup squad list in May.
Lionel Messi (L) #10 of Inter Miami CF and Harry Maguire (R) of Manchester United.
Ivan Toney and Al Ahli reportedly face backlash over claims that referees indirectly lent a hand to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr have been drawn into a fresh controversy sparked by Al Ahli‘s most recent match, which was marred by a series of disputed refereeing decisions. Following the statements and accusations made in the aftermath, Ivan Toney and the Saudi club have reportedly faced pushback over their claims.
The 2025-26 Saudi Pro League added yet another officiating controversy to its list after the match between Al Ahli and Al Fayha. Several uncalled penalties and questionable decisions prompted Al Ahli to release a formal statement expressing their “deep dissatisfaction with the refereeing errors that affected today’s match.”
One of the most direct voices in the fallout was Ivan Toney, who leveled a pointed accusation at fourth official Abdulrahman Al-Sultan. “The referee told us after the match… ‘Focus on the Asian Champions League. How does a referee say something like that? His head is somewhere else. I hope it was recorded and gets released,” Toney told Saudi network Thmanyah after the game, sentiments that were echoed by head coach Matthias Jaissle.
However, according to Saudi outlet Al-Arriyadiyah, no evidence has been found to support the accusations against Al-Sultan. The Main Referees Committee of the Saudi Football Federation reviewed the full audio recordings from the Al Ahli vs. Al Fayha match and found nothing to corroborate the claims made by Toney and Jaissle.
« 𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗛 𝗣𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗤𝗨𝗢𝗜 𝗧𝗨 𝗙𝗔𝗜𝗦 𝗖̧𝗔 ? » 😭
La discussion entre Matthias Jaissle (entraîneur d’Al Ahli) et l’arbitre à la fin du match sur la séquence du penalty non sifflé :
🗣️ : « Explique-nous pourquoi tu n’as pas sifflé ? »
The committee launched its review following Al Ahli’s formal request for “access to the recordings and communications between the referees and the VAR, as well as their interactions with the team’s players during the match.” Despite a thorough examination of the available material, the investigation turned up no evidence supporting the allegations.
Controversy keeps growing around Al Nassr
The 1-1 draw against Al Fayha prevented Al Ahli from closing the gap on league leaders Al Nassr, leaving them third in the Saudi Pro League standings with 66 points, four behind the top. When asked after the game which team benefited from the disputed decisions, Toney did not hesitate, saying it was “the team we’re chasing,” a clear reference to Cristiano Ronaldo’s side.
Despite arriving as a full-fledged veteran, Cristiano Ronaldo managed to make a solid impact at Juventus. Nevertheless, former executive Fabio Paratici reveals that the Portuguese created a problem within the team with his imposing goal-scoring quality.
After shining for several years at Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo made the drastic decision to leave the club, heading to Juventus. Although he arrived as a full-fledged veteran, he managed to showcase his imposing quality, leading the attack. Nevertheless, former executive Fabio Paratici reveals that the Ronaldo created a major problem in the squad with his dominant goal-scoring ability.
“Precious for Juve (on Ronaldo’s arrival), important for everyone since Mourinho later was at Roma—a league needs great characters. We all wanted the Champions League, and in our first year we could have won it… The problem was that by scoring a goal per game, Cristiano made life too easy for his teammates, who had already won so much. That’s why we changed coaches, to try to restructure,” Fabio Paratici said, via Corriere della Sera.
In his first season with the Vecchia Signora, the Portuguese managed to score 28 goals and provide 14 assists in 48 matches. With this, he established as the team’s most productive player. Far from being an isolated performance, he went on to improve his output, scoring more than 35 goals in the next two seasons. Despite this, they failed to shine in the Champions League, piling up disappointment after disappointment.
While Paratici’s words might sound like a subtle jab at Ronaldo, this is far from the case. Instead, Fabio was aiming to deliver a strong criticism of Juventus’ squad, which stopped contributing collectively as they used to. Even though the Portuguese was shining, the team seemed to place the entire offensive burden on him, moving away from the collective approach seen in previous seasons.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus celebrates with the TIMVISION cup.
Ronaldo shined in the scoring side, but Juventus couldn’t keep up
Throughout his tenure at Juventus, Cristiano Ronaldo consistently demonstrated that he was a player on another level. Across 134 matches, he scored 101 goals and provided 28 assists. His presence on the pitch guaranteed Juventus world-class attacking output, representing a clear step up in quality. However, the roster struggled to maintain a cohesive and fluid style of play, with serious concerns arising in both the midfield and defensive line.
Despite his remarkable scoring ability, Ronaldo could not shoulder the team’s entire creative and defensive workload. Unlike in previous seasons, his teammates failed to provide structural solidity, offering little security against opponents. Rather than building the roster around his strengths, the front office did not surround Ronaldo with the right profiles to maximize his talent, ultimately squandering several years of his prime.
While at Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo perfectly complemented a strong roster. At Juventus, however, he became the central star of a weaker squad. Moreover, the Italian side invested heavily in sustaining the veteran forward, often neglecting broader squad renewal. As a result, the team experienced a noticeable decline in performance, leaving the Portuguese star without sufficient world-class support.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus looks on during the pre-season friendly match.
With Neymar being linked to FC Cincinnati, questions arise over how much the MLS side would have to invest to bring in the Santos star.
Neymar is back in the headlines, with reports surfacing that FC Cincinnati have expressed interest in signing the Brazilian legend. While the news is still in its early stages, questions are emerging about what it would take financially for the MLS club to pry him away from Santos.
According to The Athletic‘s Tom Bogert and Paul Tenorio, FC Cincinnati have initiated contact with Neymar’s entourage to explore the possibility of a move. While direct talks with the player himself have yet to take place, negotiations remain at a preliminary stage, with the financial terms of any potential deal yet to be discussed.
The same reporters revealed that internal discussions within the Cincinnati organization are still ongoing as the club weighs whether to push forward with a pursuit. The initial inquiries were made to get a first read on what it would take to make the deal happen.
The timing of a potential move is seen as opportune given the current circumstances surrounding both Santos and Neymar’s contract situation. His deal with the Peixe runs through December 2026, meaning he could sign a pre-contract agreement with any club as early as June, while Santos have struggled to find their footing near the top of the Brazilian first division, falling well short of expectations since Neymar’s return last year.
Neymar Junior of Santos.
The potential move fits into a broader MLS strategy of attracting global stars, a push that has already brought Thomas Muller, Son Heung-min and most recently Antoine Griezmann to North America. For FC Cincinnati specifically, the path is complicated by the fact that all three Designated Player slots are currently occupied by Evander, Kevin Denkey and Teenage Hadebe, meaning at least one would need to be moved on to make room for Neymar.
Neymar’s reported contract demands at Santos
Beyond clearing a DP slot, the financial investment required to land one of the most marketable players in modern soccer history would be substantial. While Cincinnati would not owe Santos a transfer fee given the expiration of his contract, agreeing to terms with Neymar himself is an entirely different mountain to climb.
A May 2025 report from UOL Esporte revealed that the deal brokered between Santos and Neymar’s father, who also serves as his agent, guarantees the player a monthly income of R$21 million, roughly $3.8 million, combining salary and image rights. His official labor documents list a gross salary of R$4.14 million, approximately $750,000 USD, but that figure is only the tip of the iceberg.
According to the same report, Neymar is entitled to at least $15 million in marketing projects and image rights, one of the key commercial pillars that MLS and FC Cincinnati would be eager to capitalize on. On top of that, Santos is required to pass on 75% of the value of any sponsorships sold through the arrangement, keeping just 25% for the club.
Neymar of Santos warming up prior to the game.
All of the above, part of his initial six-month deal with Santos, was supplemented by private flights, luxury hotel accommodations for him and his inner circle, and business class travel for the entire NR Sports staff. His current contract, set to expire in December 2026, has not been made public, but FC Cincinnati are unlikely to find Neymar’s financial expectations easy to meet. That said, the commercial upside of landing one of soccer’s biggest names could still make the equation worthwhile for the club.
Neymar of Santos looks on during a Brasileirao 2025 match against Fortaleza.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been at the center of one of the most intense rivalries. While some praise the Portuguese scoring prowess, others praise the Argentine’s all-around capacity. In light of this, 1986 World Cup champion Oscar Ruggeri makes the difference between both stars.
Even though Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are already veterans, they continue to be the subject of constant comparisons. While some praise the Portuguese’s goal-scoring prowess, others highlight the Argentine’s ability to shine all over the pitch. In this context, 1986 World Cup champion Oscar Ruggeri joined the conversation, making clear the difference between the two stars throughout their careers.
In an exclusive interview with Bolavip, Oscar Ruggeri made it clear that comparing Messi and Ronaldo doesn’t make sense, highlighting the difference between the two. “It wouldn’t even cross my mind to discuss the subject, because there’s a huge difference between the genius we have and the other one, who is a great player. Messi is a genius and Ronaldo is a star. He’s truly a star, a very good player, but he’s not a genius like Messi.”
Throughout his career, Lionel Messi has made an impact far beyond his goal-scoring prowess. Starting from the right wing, the Argentine established as the team’s primary creative force, consistently linking up play. As a result, he has racked up 407 assists, leading him to take on a different role in his later years. Nevertheless, he shines as a scorer with 903 goals, proving himself to be one of the most complete players in history.
While Ruggeri does not consider Cristiano Ronaldo a genius, Ronaldo has shattered every stereotype. Initially embarking on his career as a brilliant left winger, injuries transformed him into a historic center forward. Far from faltering, he has consistently ranked among the world’s top scorers for over 20 years, amassing 967 goals and nearing the elusive 1,000-goal mark. Now 41 years old, he continues to shine in the Saudi Pro League.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal shakes hands with Lionel Messi of Argentina
Messi and Ronaldo set for a historic duel in 2026 World Cup
After shining in the MLS and the Saudi Pro League, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo stand out as clear candidates to compete in the 2026 World Cup. Although they are already veterans, both remain leaders of their national teams, considered key figures for their head coaches. Unlike previous editions, this could be their final tournament, making the outcome potentially historic.
If they confirm their presence with Argentina and Portugal, they would become the players with the most World Cup appearances in history, cementing their names in the tournament’s legacy. In addition, Ronaldo could aim to win this major trophy for the first time in his career, while Messi will look to defend his title, providing a historic opportunity in their long-standing comparison.
The 1,000-goal milestone may set up Messi-Ronaldo duel
After more than 20 years, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are unmistakably approaching retirement. Nevertheless, they are engaged in another major duel: The 1,000-goal milestone. While the Argentine sits at 903 goals, the Portuguese has 967, making him the clear favorite to reach it first. However, the focus may not be on who gets there first, but on who ultimately achieves it, putting pressure on the Inter Miami star.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr FC and Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF.
In a sudden change of plans, the two rivals of Lionel Messi's Argentina prior to the 2026 World Cup have been reportedly revealed.
Lionel Messi is in the final stages of his preparation ahead of Argentina‘s campaign at the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada and Mexico. With just two friendlies remaining before the tournament begins, the Inter Miami star is now dealing with a change of opponent.
As announced by AFA, Argentina will face Honduras and Iceland in the two friendlies scheduled for the June international window ahead of the World Cup. The match against Honduras is set for June 6, while the clash against the Icelandic side follows on June 9, leaving Messi and company just one week to regroup before their tournament opener against Algeria on the 16th.
The Honduras fixture had long been floated as a possibility, even during the March window when Argentina ultimately faced Mauritania and Zambia. The Iceland match, however, came as a surprise to fans, not because of the opponent itself, but because Serbia had been widely expected to fill the European slot on the schedule.
In his press conference on March 26 ahead of the Mauritania game, head coach Lionel Scaloni had spoken with confidence about the June plans: “Regarding the June matches, it is my understanding that one of them will be against Serbia. That is my understanding; we requested it, thanks to the fact that (Claudio) Arzeno is on Serbia’s coaching staff, and we were able to speak with him. If the match can be played, I believe one of our opponents will be Serbia.“
Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates after scoring against Zambia.
A recent L’Équipe report noted that Argentina’s upcoming opponents carry a combined average ranking of 85th in the FIFA standings, reigniting the debate around the quality of the Albiceleste’s warm-up schedule. While none of the three sides have qualified for the upcoming World Cup, Argentina, ranked third in the latest update, will face Honduras, ranked 66th, and Iceland, ranked 75th, with the originally planned Serbia, ranked 39th, now out of the picture.
Messi set for iconic college football venues
While the caliber of the opposition may not generate much excitement, the settings certainly will. Messi and his Argentina teammates are set to play in front of massive crowds at two storied college football stadiums ahead of their World Cup title defense.
The game against Honduras on June 6 will be held at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas, home of the Texas A&M Aggies and one of the largest stadiums in the country with a capacity of 102,733. The venue last hosted a high-profile soccer occasion when Brazil defeated Mexico 3-2 in a friendly that drew an attendance of 85,249, according to ESPN.
The clash against Iceland will then take place at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama, home of the Auburn Tigers and another iconic Southeastern Conference venue. With a capacity of 87,451 and the game set to be played on a grass surface, it will mark the first time in the stadium’s 87-year history that a soccer match has been played on its field.
Despite being defeated by Atlético Madrid, Barcelona remain hopeful of overturning the result. In fact, Lamine Yamal has sent a message of encouragement to the Culers, issuing a strong warning to the Colchoneros.
Even though Barcelona arrived as clear favorites, Atlético Madrid managed to defeat them 2–0 in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals. Hansi Flick’s team failed to convert the numerous chances they created, leaving Marcus Rashford exposed. Nevertheless, Lamine Yamal has sent a positive message to the Culers, while also issuing a clear warning to the Colchoneros ahead the second leg.
After the defeat against the Colchoneros, Lamine Yamal sent a message of encouragement to Barcelona, issuing a warning for the second leg. “This isn’t over, Culers. We’ll give everything in the return match. All united, always,”he posted, via Instagram. With this, the Spaniard prepares himself for an anticipated comeback of a two-goal difference at Riyadh Air Metropolitano in the Champions League.
Despite not scoring against Atlético Madrid, Lamine dominated on the pitch, being Barcelona’s most decisive player. He not only shone in dribbling but also constantly created space for his teammates. Nevertheless, Marcus Rashford and Dani Olmo were unable to convert all the opportunities generated by the 18-year-old star, cutting off any offensive possibilities.
With Pau Cubarsí’s sending off, the Blaugrana lost full control of the game, conceding a free-kick goal from Julián Álvarez. Despite this, they dominated offensively, having more shots on goal and being the brighter team. For this reason, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona could be aiming for a comeback, relying on greater accuracy in front of goal, which could see the Dani Olmo–Fermín López duo deployed again.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona is tackled by Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid.
Lamine Yamal may need to take a scoring role in Barcelona’s offense
Throughout the season, Lamine Yamal has proven to be the key axis of Barcelona’s offense. He is not only decisive in dribbling but also opens up space for his teammates. Nevertheless, the Blaugrana are not at their best in scoring, suffering from dips in form from their forwards, as neither Robert Lewandowski nor Ferran Torres are shining. For this reason, the 18-year-old star will need to take on a more goal-oriented role.
Needing to overturn a two-goal deficit, the Blaugrana require scoring power more than ever. For this reason, Fermín López and Dani Olmo could take center stage creatively, while Lamine will need to excel in front of goal. As the team’s top scorer, the 18-year-old star has already shown his scoring ability, so he will need to step up at the forefront on this occasion.
Frenkie de Jong’s comeback may prove differential for Barcelona
Ahead of the first leg in the Champions League quarterfinals, Hansi Flick had to cope with the difficult absence of Frenkie de Jong in midfield. While Eric García emerged as a decent solution, he was unable to shine offensively, limiting the team’s progression. The Dutchman is set to get playing time against Espanyol, creating significant opportunities to start in the second leg against Atlético Madrid.
If Frenkie manages to start in the second leg, the Blaugrana would gain consistency in midfield, as well as an ideal partner for playmaking. This would allow Lamine Yamal and Rashford to receive the ball further up the pitch, creating more opportunities to score and push for a comeback. Nevertheless, Fermín López might need to step up, shining once again offensively, breaking Atlético Madrid’s defense.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona shows his dejection after the UEFA Champions League.
Looking to boost their offensive output, Real Madrid would be seeking to strengthen Kylian Mbappé. For this reason, Michael Olise emerges as the ideal solution, as the Blancos are reportedly preparing to make a $185 million offer to Bayern Munich.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have shown themselves to be quite limited offensively, as Vinicius Jr. has not been at his best and Kylian Mbappé faced physical issues. In this context, Michael Olise emerges as the ideal solution to their problems, being a target for the next season. In fact, the Spanish side is reportedly considering making a $185 million offer to Bayern Munich for the Frenchman.
According to Christian Falk, via CF Bayern Insider, Michael Olise’s brilliant performance at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium has caught Real Madrid’s attention. As a result, president Florentino Pérez is determined to pursue his signing, preparing a €160 million offer (around $185 million) to Bayern Munich. Far from being competition for Mbappé or Vinícius, the Frenchman would be an ideal complement.
With a contract until 2029, the German side are in no rush to sell Olise, as he does not have a release clause. In addition, they have made it clear that they would not sell him even for an offer exceeding $200 million, labeling Michael as untouchable. With this, Bayern Munich aim to establish him as the cornerstone of their future project, ahead of Lennart Karl or Jamal Musiala.
While Michael Olise is quite comfortable at Bayern Munich, Real Madrid’s interest could push him to consider a departure from the club. However, this is far from simple, as he is unique in his position within the German side and is the future star of the squad—something he would not necessarily have at the Spanish side. Moreover, coach Vincent Kompany has brought out his best version, being a key factor in maintaining his continuity at the Bundesliga side.
Michael Olise of Bayern Munich.
Michael Olise emerges as Bayern Munich’s most influential player
Vincent Kompany has managed to establish Bayern Munich as one of the best sporting projects in Europe. With his imposing style of play, Harry Kane and Luis Díaz have been able to bring out their best versions, leading the team in scoring. Nevertheless, Michael Olise stands out as the most decisive player in the entire squad, delivering masterclass performances throughout the season.
Unlike Kane or Díaz, Olise is a player capable of shining both centrally and out wide. With his tactical intelligence and pace, the Frenchman has managed to become the most decisive player on the team. In addition, he consistently finds space to break on the counter, being the focal point of the attack against Real Madrid. Alongside this, he has been highly productive, scoring 16 goals and providing 25 assists.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid and Michael Olise of FC Bayern Munich.
After numerous inconsistencies, AC Milan are preparing for a revolution in their roster, targeting Leon Goretzka. To secure his arrival for the 2026–27 season, the Rossoneri are reportedly preparing a formal contract offer worth €5 million.
Throughout the season, AC Milan have struggled to find consistency in their performances, accumulating a series of draws and criticism of their play. In response, they are targeting radical changes to their squad, identifying Leon Goretzka’s arrival as their marquee reinforcement. Seeking to secure his signing for the 2026–27 season, the Rossoneri are reportedly preparing a formal contract offer worth €5 million.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are determined to pursue the signing of Leon Goretzka as free agent from Bayern Munich, offering him a three-year contract worth €5 million per season. With this, they are making their best possible offer to the German, outbidding his suitors by offering more years and a significantly stronger overall package. Despite this, the 31-year-old midfielder has not made a final decision.
AC Milan are not the only club interested in Goretzka’s signing, as Juventus, Arsenal, Atlético Madrid, Napoli, Inter Milan, and Fenerbahçe are also in the race. For this reason, the Rossoneri must not only present a strong salary offer, but also a competitive sporting project. Securing a place in the UEFA Champions League could be a first step, but they would also need to promise further changes to their squad.
Leon Goretzka may boost AC Milan midfield consistency
Massimiliano Allegri has decided to rely on Luka Modrić and Adrien Rabiot as key pieces in midfield. Nevertheless, the Rossoneri have struggled to find consistency, remaining lacking in creativity and attacking threat. Given this, the potential arrival of Leon Goretzka could be a significant boost for the team, as he could bring balance and provide creative freedom.
Leon Goretzka of FC Bayern Munich replaces Joshua Kimmich.
As a box-to-box profile, Goretzka would arrive to occupy the base of AC Milan’s midfield alongside Modrić. With this, he could offer greater defensive balance during matches, which could relieve Rabiot of responsibilities and allow him to shine more offensively. In addition, the German could be key in counterattacks, offering the kind of offensive contribution that Ruben Loftus-Cheek used to provide at his best.
Goretzka lack of playing time could pose challenge at AC Milan
Unlike previous seasons, Leon Goretzka has become a rotational player at Bayern Munich. In the current campaign, he has played 1,835 minutes, mostly coming on as a substitute for Aleksandar Pavlović, completing 90 minutes only a few times. Given this, he has seen a noticeable drop in his level, showing his lack of continuity. For this reason, AC Milan could face the challenge of restoring the best version of the 31-year-old star.
Leon Goretzka of FC Bayern Munich in action during the UEFA Champions League.
Luis Suarez could end up facing Lamine Yamal’s Spain after leaving the door open for a return to Uruguay national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Luis Suarez had not been part of Uruguay‘s World Cup plans until now, currently 39 years old and winding down his career at Inter Miami. But the veteran striker could yet find himself facing Lamine Yamal‘s Spain after leaving the door open to a surprise return to the Celeste.
Suarez brought his international career to a close in September 2024, playing the full 90 minutes in Uruguay‘s CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier against Paraguay before stepping away. Since then, he has been absent for the Celeste’s last 17 matches, including the remaining qualifying fixtures and the most recent round of friendly games.
In an interview with Uruguayan outlet Diario Ovación, Suarez opened up about what retirement from the national team has felt like: “I’ll be honest with you… It’s a reality that since I retired from the national team… The flame of football has been slowly dying out for me. You maintain the desire, that passion for football through goals, through dreams, and you always dreamed of being in the national team.“
The striker then shed some light on the thinking behind his decision, while also hinting at second thoughts. “I retired from the national team to pave the way for other players and because I thought a time had come when I could no longer be useful to the national team.” But he stopped short of closing the door entirely. “Obviously, the national team is always what you want. Today you start thinking and turning things over in your head, and you are close to the World Cup, and if they need you, what do you do?” he added.
Luis Suarez acknowledges the fans on his last match as a player of the Uruguay national team.
One of the biggest obstacles standing between Suarez and a potential comeback is not his form in front of goal, but his strained relationship with head coach Marcelo Bielsa. Just a month after announcing his international retirement, Suárez publicly took aim at the Argentine manager, claiming that “Bielsa has separated the entire group, even through his way of training.“
Despite that friction, Suárez made his loyalty to Uruguay crystal clear, with the final squad list expected to be submitted in May. “I will never say no to my country; I will absolutely never say no to my country. If they need me, I will never say no to the national team. That is impossible, as long as I keep playing, as long as I remain competitive,” he concluded.
Suarez and Yamal could clash for the first time
Although Suarez was one of Barcelona’s most lethal strikers during his time at the club, he and Lamine Yamal never shared a pitch in the first team. Suarez left Barcelona in 2020 and Atletico Madrid in 2022, while Yamal made his debut in April 2023, by which point the Uruguayan had already returned to South America.
The 2026 World Cup, however, could bring together the past, present and future of FC Barcelona on the same field. Uruguay and Spain have been drawn together in Group H and are set to meet on Friday, June 26, at Estadio Akron, in what figures to be a pivotal match in the group standings, one where both Yamal and a potentially returning Suárez could prove to be the difference-makers.
Luis Suarez (L) of Uruguay and Lamine Yamal (R) of Spain.
Showing their full form, PSG defeated Liverpool in an imposing manner, dominating the entire match. Alongside this, Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia delivered an offensive masterclass, controlling the first leg of the 2025–26 Champions League quarterfinals.
PSG managed to overcome Liverpool in the 2025-26 Champions League quarterfinals first leg, showcasing all their offensive firepower. Throughout the match, the French side imposed a high press and ball dominance that neutralized their opponent. While the Reds looked to break on the counterattack, they were unable to get out of their own area, losing rhythm. In addition, Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia led the scoring side of the game.
The Reds did not arrive in their best form to face the French side, as they were coming off two consecutive defeats. In addition, coach Arne Slot opted for a defensive strategy with five defenders, looking to attack on the counter. Nevertheless, Luis Enrique’s team managed to apply immense pressure that left them completely blocked. Even Jeremy Frimpong and Hugo Ekitke were isolated in attack, as their teammates remained in their own area.
Unlike in previous Champions League matches, Liverpool failed to dominate the midfield throughout the game. Although Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister possess exceptional talent, they were pressured by PSG the entire match, which neutralized their offensive contributions. As a result, Ekitike and Florian Wirtz received neither support nor clear-cut chances, ending the game without shots on goal.
Taking advantage of his tactical versatility, PSG head coach Luis Enrique opted for a highly mobile front line. As a result, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desiré Doué, and Ousmane Dembélé constantly switched positions, throwing the Reds off balance. Following this, the French side managed to dominate the game, creating openings in the opponent’s crowded defense. Furthermore, they capitalized on their chances, scoring two goals to secure the victory.
Desire Doue of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates scoring a goal with Ousmane Dembele.
Desiré Doue and Kvicha Kvaratskhelia dominated PSG’s offense
Taking advantage of Liverpool’s defensive mindset, PSG managed to gain confidence on offense, their greatest strength. Following a brilliant team play, Desire Doue received the ball on the left wing and dribbled past all his opponents. After driving toward the goal, the Frenchman unleashed a powerful shot to score the team’s first goal, beating Giorgi Mamardashvili within just 10 minutes.
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 8, 2026
In the second half, the French side continued to press forward against Liverpool. After receiving the ball in midfield, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia found Joao Neves, who controlled the ball and played it back to the Georgian as he ran into space. Upon receiving the ball, he produced a magnificent individual play, dribbling past Liverpool’s defenders to find himself one-on-one and score the second goal of the game.
With Julian Alvarez scoring an incredible free kick, Atletico Madrid secured a 2-0 win against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.
FC Barcelona hosted Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, April 8, in the first leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at Spotify Camp Nou. Goals from Julian Alvarez, via a stunning free kick, and Alexander Sorloth gave the visitors a commanding 2-0 away victory.
Barcelona controlled the ball for much of the opening period but struggled to create clear-cut chances against an Atletico side that threatened on the counter on multiple occasions. The game turned on its head in the 42nd minute when, following a long ball from Alvarez, Pau Cubarsi brought down Giuliano Simeone and was initially shown a yellow card, only for a VAR review to prompt referee Istvan Kovacs to upgrade the decision to a red.
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 8, 2026
From that very free kick, Alvarez stepped up and curled a stunning effort into the top right corner to give Atletico the lead just before the break. Despite being reduced to ten men, Barcelona refused to sit back and pressed high in the second half, but Atletico punished them again in the 70th minute when Matteo Ruggeri delivered a fine cross for Sorloth to finish with his left foot and double the advantage.
Lamine Yamal was a constant threat throughout, but Juan Musso produced a series of outstanding saves to preserve the clean sheet. Atletico now hold a significant advantage heading into the second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano next Tuesday, April 14, where Barcelona will need to mount yet another comeback against the same opponents, though this time the task will be even more daunting on the road.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring against FC Barcelona.
Despite appearing to emerge as a star for Massimiliano Allegri, Rafael Leão’s future at AC Milan is full of uncertainty. In light of this, the Portuguese has reportedly been offered to Barcelona in a €50 million move ahead of the summer of 2026.
Despite his unpromising start to the season, Rafael Leão has managed to earn a spot in coach Massimiliano Allegri’s rotation. Nevertheless, the Portuguese’s future at AC Milan is not entirely certain, as his inconsistent performances open the door to a possible departure. In light of this, the 26-year-old winger has reportedly been offered to Hansi Flick’s Barcelona in a $58 million(around €50 million) move in the summer of 2026.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the Rossoneri are open to listening to offers for Rafael Leao. However, the Portuguese would only leave for an offer exceeding $58 million. Although he has a $210 million (around €180 million) release clause, they believe the 26-year-old star has already completed a cycle with the team, making this one of the last opportunities to secure a good transfer fee for his rights, as his contract expires in 2028.
Throughout his career, Leao has been linked with Barcelona, as his agent Jorge Mendes already attempted this move in previous seasons. Given his potential departure from AC Milan, the Blaugrana are closely monitoring a possible move for Rafael, staying in contact with his agent. However, they have not decided to make a move for his signing, waiting until the summer of 2026, reports Diario Sport.
Despite Rafael Leao being a target for the Blaugrana for several seasons, they are not entirely convinced about his signing. The Portuguese has not managed to deliver consistent performances at AC Milan, alternating strong displays with notable dips in form. Additionally, Hansi Flick demands defensive commitment from his wingers, something the 26-year-old winger does not particularly excel at, raising serious doubts.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on.
Report: Barcelona have three top priorities at left wing ahead of Leao
Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Barcelona remain attentive to strengthening the left wing, as Raphinha has been dealing with quite a few physical issues. Given this, the possible departure of Rafael Leão from AC Milan emerges as a strong possibility. Nevertheless, the Blaugrana reportedly maintain three priorities to reinforce this position ahead of the Portuguese.
According to Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are keeping a close eye on the possible continuity of Marcus Rashford. After already fitting in with Hansi Flick, they are evaluating his performances in the final stretch of the season to decide whether to pay the €30 million buy clause. In addition, he is willing to take a salary reduction, opening the door to his permanent stay.
In case that he fails to convince at Barcelona, they have decided to bet on young talent. In this context, the development of Abde Ezzalzouli and Jan Virgili is reportedly being monitored. As academy players, they would have a smooth adaptation to Flick, which is seen as a differential factor. Additionally, the Blaugranas hold 20% of Abde’s future sale and 40% of Virgili’s future sale.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match.
Set to face Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, Raphinha will be a major absence for FC Barcelona.
Barcelona host Atletico Madrid in a high-stakes first leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at Spotify Camp Nou. While fans will be hoping to see every available star on the pitch, Raphinha‘s absence from the squad has raised questions ahead of the match.
Raphinha will not feature against Atletico Madrid due to injury. The winger suffered a tear in the biceps femoris of his right leg while representing Brazil in their friendly against France during the March international break on the 26th, and has been sidelined ever since.
The timing could hardly be worse for both the player and the club, with Raphinha expected to be out for a minimum of five weeks. Under that recovery timeline, the Brazilian will miss both legs of the Atletico Madrid tie as well as Barcelona’s next four La Liga fixtures.
According to Mundo Deportivo, head coach Hansi Flick is targeting El Clásico on Sunday, May 10, as the date Raphinha could return to action. Should Barcelona maintain their winning form up to that point, a victory over Real Madrid could clinch the 2025-26 La Liga title with three games to spare, making it a significant moment for the winger to make his comeback.
Raphinha got injured playing for Brazil
FIFA to reimburse Barcelona
Currently sitting atop the La Liga table with 76 points and still alive in the Champions League, Raphinha’s injury has prompted Barcelona to direct their frustration toward FIFA. As reported by Diario Sport, the governing body will be compensating the club for the duration of his absence.
Re-elected president Joan Laporta aired his grievances with Món Esport over the situation: “In some way, we should demand that FIFA create an international calendar that takes into account the competitions of the most important clubs. It’s true that when one of your best players gets injured in a friendly match between France and Brazil in the United States, it is very frustrating. The problem is the congested fixture list, especially at this point in the season when we are playing for everything. It is exasperating!”
Under FIFA’s established compensation framework, clubs receive a daily payment of 20,548 euros, applicable for a maximum of 365 days and capped at 7.5 million euros per player. With Raphinha projected to miss approximately five weeks, reports indicate Barcelona stand to receive around 143,836 euros in reimbursement.
Following a brilliant performance against Newcastle United, Barcelona face Atlético Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals. However, coach Hansi Flick is dealing with significant absences, as Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal remain sidelined, forcing changes to the starting lineup.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have managed to remain competitive, emerging as candidates to win the Champions League. For today’s match, Hansi Flick faces a difficult challenge, as he goes up againstAtlético Madrid in the quarterfinals. However, they will do so without Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong, losing their two starting midfielders. With this in mind, they will be forced to make major changes to their starting lineup.
After suffering an injury at the end of February, Frenkie de Jong has remained absent over Barcelona’s last eight matches. Although it seemed he would arrive in time, the Dutchman was unable to receive medical clearance, leaving him out of the first leg against Los Colchoneros. Nevertheless, he could get minutes against Espanyol, arriving in time for the second leg of the quarterfinals.
While Marc Bernal was the ideal replacement for the Dutchman, he will also be out for the match against Atlético Madrid. In the previous game, he had to come off just minutes after entering the field, being diagnosed with an ankle sprain that will sideline him for 10 days. Although his recovery period is short, this rules him out of both legs of the Champions League. With this, they lose both of their starting midfielders.
In the absence of Frenkie and Bernal, coach Hansi Flick could opt for Eric Garcia as a defensive midfielder. After regaining Jules Koundé, he could leave his position as a full-back and cover the absence of both stars. In addition, Marc Casadó could also play a key role off the bench, offering a more defensive and controlled profile. Nonetheless, the Blaugranas may still struggle to hold the control of the game.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona is challenged by Nahuel Molina of Atletico de Madrid.
Frenkie and Bernal’s absence could boost Dani Olmo starting role
Hansi Flick has managed to establish dominance in midfield, relying on Frenkie de Jong or Marc Bernal. With them on the field, Barcelona have been able to gain a privileged control of the ball due to their great vision of play, while maintaining defensive solidity. Therefore, the absence of both midfielders would justify the presence of Dani Olmo as a forward/false 9, as it would balance the build-up and the fluidity of play for the Blaugranas.
Although Eric Garcia or Marc Casadó have delivered solid performances, they do not offer the same offensive contribution for Barcelona. With this, coach Hansi Flick could rely on the pairing of Dani Olmo and Fermín López as key pieces, looking to provide constant support to the midfield. Additionally, this could open spaces for Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal to play on the wings, posing a constant threat to Atlético Madrid.
Along with this, the presence of Dani Olmo has already proven to be decisive in opening spaces against Los Colchoneros. Moving constantly and supporting Fermin Lopez, he manages to attract opposing defenders, opening spaces behind them. Moreover, he manages to generate numerical superiority in all offensive actions, allowing them to sustain possession longer and have more attacking opportunities.
PSG and Liverpool are set to face off in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, arriving in contrasting forms. While the French side arrives as one of the best teams in the world, the Reds are in the midst of one of their worst seasons, making Mohamed Salah’s availability a constant concern.
PSG face Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, looking to secure a spot in the semifinals. Nevertheless, both teams arrive in contrasting form. While the French side comes in as one of the best teams in the world, the Reds are going through one of their worst seasons. Because of this, all eyes are on Mohamed Salah, as he can be decisive offensively.
After avoiding injuries in recent matches, Mohamed Salah is in full condition to play for Liverpool. However, coach Arne Slot decided to leave him of the starting lineup. In his final season at Anfield, the Egyptian could be more motivated than ever if he gets the chance, aiming for a heroic performance to lead his team to victory once again.
Slot will rely on Hugo Ekitike, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Florian Wirtz, looking to break down PSG’s strong defensive structure. However, they are coming off two consecutive defeats, raising serious doubts about their ability to secure a win. With this being the only competition they can still win, Liverpool could arrive highly motivated, seeking a victory that silences all criticism.
Unlike the Reds, Paris Saint-Germain come in on a run of four consecutive wins, regaining the best form of most of their players. As a result, coach Luis Enrique is getting the best version of Ousmane Dembélé, along with a dominant Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has been the most decisive player from a collective standpoint. In addition, Willian Pacho and Marquinhos have been dominant defensively, complicating Arne Slot’s intentions.
Nuno Mendes of Paris Saint-Germain controls the ball under pressure from Mohamed Salah of Liverpool.
PSG confirmed lineup vs Liverpool
Throughout the 2025–26 season, PSG have dealt with numerous injuries that have affected their performance. Heading into today’s match, coach Luis Enrique will be without Fabián Ruiz, Bradley Barcola, and Quentin Ndjantou. Nevertheless, they have managed to remain dominant, relying on Dembélé, Vitinha, and Marquinhos as the team’s leaders. In addition, the French side maintains a deep roster capable of making the difference.
Like the French side, Liverpool head into the match with several players out, as Alisson Becker, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Giovanni Leoni, and Stefan Bajcetic remain sidelined due to injury. However, coach Arne Slot has managed to keep the team competitive in the Champions League.
With this in mind, the Reds will play as follows: Giorgi Mamardashvili; Joe Gomez, Virgil Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister; Jeremie Frimpong, Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz; Hugo Ekitike.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool during the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final match.
After the early exit in the Champions Cup, Lionel Messi's Inter Miami suffered a drop of four places in the CONCACAF rankings.
Inter Miami have struggled to live up to the expectations that surrounded them heading into the season, suffering an early setback with an earlier-than-expected elimination from the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Herons’ inconsistent run has now cost them in the standings, with Lionel Messi‘s side dropping four places in the CONCACAF club rankings.
Cruz Azul has since overtaken Toluca as the top-ranked club in CONCACAF, while Inter Miami have tumbled from third down to seventh in the same two-month span. The Herons have been leapfrogged by Seattle Sounders, LAFC, Club America and Tigres UANL, all of whom have boosted their standing by advancing to the quarterfinals of the current Champions Cup.
Nashville’s series: the biggest blow for Inter Miami
As CONCACAF explains, its rankings are calculated using a weighted system that factors in performances across domestic leagues, national cups, continental tournaments and global competitions. Inter Miami had climbed to third on the strength of their 2025 MLS Cup triumph, but their recent results have steadily eroded that standing.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF dribbles the ball against Jeisson Palacios #4 of Nashville SC.
The most damaging blow came in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where Messi and company entered directly at the Round of 16 and were promptly knocked out by Nashville SC in a shocking upset. Combined with an inconsistent MLS campaign featuring three wins, two draws and one defeat, the Herons have seen their status as one of the continent’s dominant clubs take a significant hit.
Are Inter Miami relying too much on Messi?
Inter Miami’s slide in the CONCACAF rankings is also a reflection of a broader concern about the team’s overall trajectory, having fallen short in one of their primary objectives for the 2026 season. The issue is not a decline in Messi’s individual level, but rather the extent to which the team has become dependent on him to produce.
Through six MLS games, Inter Miami have scored 11 goals, with Messi leading the way as the team’s top scorer with five. No other player has managed more than one goal, with the rest of the tally spread across six different scorers including Mateo Silvetti, Telasco Segovia, Rodrigo De Paul, Gonzalo Luján, Micael and most recently Luis Suárez, while designated strikers Tadeo Allende and German Berterame have struggled to find the net.
The lack of firepower from the supporting cast is further highlighted by Messi’s own numbers, as the Argentine has yet to register a single assist through five MLS appearances despite posting an expected assists figure of 1.71 on SofaScore and averaging 2.2 key passes per game.
After finishing the 2025 regular season with 81 goals in 34 games, a rate of 2.4 per match, Inter Miami’s current average of 1.8 goals per game is a sign of a team running well below its capabilities, and a problem head coach Javier Mascherano will need to address sooner rather than later.
With his hat-trick against Orlando City, LAFC star Denis Bouanga claimed the fifth MLS Player of the Matchday award in his career, but remains far from legends Lionel Messi and Hani Mukhtar.
Denis Bouanga was one of the standout performers of Matchday 6 in the 2026 MLS season, scoring a hat trick in LAFC‘s dominant 6-0 win over Orlando City. The Gabonese striker claimed his fifth career MLS Player of the Matchday award in the process, though he still has plenty of ground to make up on Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and Nashville SC’s Hany Mukhtar.
It marked Bouanga’s first Player of the Matchday honor of the 2026 season and the fifth of his MLS career since joining LAFC in 2022. That total places him among the top three active players in the category, trailing only Mukhtar and Messi.
Keeping pace with that duo, however, will be no easy feat. Mukhtar sits second on the all-time active list with eight Player of the Matchday awards since arriving at Nashville SC in 2020.
Denis Bouanga #99 of Los Angeles Football Club shoots and scores against LD Alajuelense.
Topping that list is an even steeper climb. Messi leads all active players with 13 MLS Matchday awards, eight more than Bouanga, having become the first player to claim six across back-to-back seasons in 2024 and 2025. He has already added another in 2026, taking home the Matchday 2 honor, also against Orlando City, a strong sign that his form shows no signs of fading.
Bouanga chasing hat-trick record
Unlike Messi and Mukhtar, who operate more as playmakers, Bouanga has built his MLS reputation on his goal-scoring ability. Saturday’s hat trick pushed his regular-season contributions to 99, with 69 goals and 30 assists in 107 games. Netting all three goals within the first 28 minutes also made it the fourth-fastest hat trick from the opening whistle in MLS history.
One milestone he is firmly chasing is the all-time MLS regular-season hat-trick record. His tally now stands at five, leaving him within striking distance of Josef Martinez’s mark of seven. By contrast, Messi has scored just two MLS hat tricks, both with Inter Miami, with the most recent coming in October 2025 against Nashville.
Hany Mukhtar (L)of Nashville SC, Denis Bouanga (M) of the Los Angeles FC, and Lionel Messi (R) of Inter Miami CF.
Sporting CP are hosting the game against a weakened Arsenal side in the UEFA Champions League, son make sure not to miss a single detail of the game with our live blog coverage.
Sporting CP and Arsenal clash on Tuesday, April 8, in the first leg of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie at Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon. Stay with us for every twist and turn as we bring you live minute-by-minute coverage throughout the match.
Sporting arrive in excellent form after pulling off a stunning comeback against Bodo/Glimt in the Round of 16, overturning a 3-0 first-leg deficit with a dominant 5-0 victory in the second leg. Back at Estadio Jose Alvalade, the Leoes will be looking to turn their home into a fortress and set up a favorable position heading into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal, meanwhile, enter the tie as one of the competition’s favorites on paper but in the midst of a difficult spell. The Gunners have suffered back-to-back defeats, first in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City and then in an FA Cup elimination at the hands of second-tier Southampton, and will now be looking to reset and refocus with their Champions League hopes very much alive.
Luis Suarez of Sporting Clube de Portugal and Martin Odegaard of Arsenal.
After a dominant performance, Bayern Munich shine led by Luis Díaz and Harry Kane against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Although Kylian Mbappé scored a goal, it was not enough to secure a draw on the scoreboard.
Bayern Munich managed to dominate Real Madrid in the first leg of the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. They not only executed a high press but also shined offensively with an outstanding Michael Olise. Nevertheless, Luis Díaz and Harry Kane led the scoring, overshadowing Kylian Mbappé’s strong performance and his goal, clearly outperforming them throughout the match.
Throughout the first half, coach Vincent Kompany’s team managed to establish itself as the better side in the match. They not only suffocated Real Madrid with high pressing, but also quickly regained possession after losing the ball. With this, Michael Olise was able to unsettle his opponents, dribbling past Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen throughout the game. In addition, Serge Gnabry emerged as a key figure in linking the midfield with the attack.
Far from lowering the intensity, the German side maintained a high press that continued to suffocate Real Madrid. They even scored just seconds after the start of the second half, through Harry Kane. Nevertheless, coach Kompany decided to substitute Gnabry and Laimer, looking to give them rest. As a result, Bayern lost momentum, as they were without two players who connected the entire team.
Real Madrid remained active offensively, imposing a fast counterattack throughout the match. Although Arda Güler and Federico Valverde stood out, they struggled to connect with Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. After Kompany’s adjustments, Los Blancos gained more presence on the pitch, dominating the game in the final 30 minutes. The Frenchman even led the comeback attempt, scoring a goal that ultimately fell short of leveling the match.
Luis Diaz, Harry Kane and Mbappé dominated the scoring side
Amid their dominance in the first half, Harry Kane led a brilliant team play at the edge of the box, finding Serge Gnabry alone near the area. After receiving the ball, the German made a quick pass into space for Luis Díaz, who beat Real Madrid’s defenders and found himself 1v1 against Andriy Lunin. Remaining composed, the Colombian placed a shot across goal to score the opening goal of the match.
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 7, 2026
Taking advantage of the chaos in the second half, Bayern Munich launched an efficient counterattack led by Michael Olise, who got past Carreras and Huijsen to deliver a great pass to Harry Kane, who was completely unmarked at the edge of the box. Making the most of his striking ability, the Englishman fired a powerful shot toward the right side, beating Andriy Lunin just minutes after play had restarted.
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 7, 2026
After losing their dominant presence in midfield, the German side lost control of the match, handing the initiative to Real Madrid. Following a brilliant counter led by Trent Alexander-Arnold, he got past Alphonso Davies and Jonathan Tah, delivering a precise cross to Kylian Mbappé. After beating Upamecano, the 27-year-old striker struck a first-time shot across goal to beat Manuel Neuer and score Los Blancos’ only goal.
Real Madrid are back in the tie 👊
Kylian Mbappé with a fine finish from an incredible assist by Trent Alexander-Arnold ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/9wFJWh4XVk
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 7, 2026
Harry Kane of FC Bayern Munich celebrates scoring his team's second goal with teammate Luis Diaz.
Throughout the season, Ferran Torres and Marc Casadó have failed to impress with their performances. For this reason, Barcelona are reportedly open to selling them, aiming to bring in star reinforcements for coach Hansi Flick ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Hansi Flick has managed to elevate Barcelona into one of the best teams in the world. Nevertheless, Ferran Torres and Marc Casadó have yet to fit into the rotation, drawing considerable criticism. In light of this, the Blaugranas are reportedly open to letting both players leave, aiming to create space for reinforcements in the attack and defensive line, which have been consistent priorities.
According to David Bernabeu, via Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are looking at two major sales in the summer of 2026: Ferran Torres and Marc Casadó. Having failed to shine under Hansi Flick, the Spanish side would aim to free up space in the wage bill and secure resources to pursue the signings of Julián Álvarez and Alessandro Bastoni, two priorities for the roster.
Even though Ferran Torres seemed to be emerging as the starting striker, he has experienced a clear drop in form in the second half of the season. Scoring only three goals so far in 2026, the Spaniard has been relegated back to the bench, failing to make a decisive impact. With a contract until 2027, they are seeking a transfer, avoiding letting him leave as a free agent.
Unlike Ferran, Marc Casadó has not managed to secure a starting spot under Hansi Flick. Even though Pedri and Frenkie de Jong have missed several games this season, he has failed to impress with his performances, being surpassed by Marc Bernal and now Pablo Gavi upon his return. As the fifth option in the rotation, both parties would reportedly be open to a transfer in the summer of 2026.
Julián Alvarez of Atletico Madrid and Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan.
Julián Álvarez and Alessandro Bastoni seen as game-changers
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have faced serious problems both offensively and defensively. While Iñigo Martínez left the team, Robert Lewandowski’s level has suffered a notable decline. For this reason, the Blaugranas have reportedly targeted Julián Álvarez and Alessandro Bastoni as their priorities, as they could transform the team’s performance.
While Julián Álvarez is not having his best season at Atlético Madrid, the Argentine remains the clear favorite to reinforce Barcelona’s attack. He could not only provide a scoring boost but also contribute to the team’s collective play, fitting in well with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Nevertheless, Barcelona would need to pay a transfer fee exceeding €100 million, complicating his arrival.
Hansi Flick has not been able to restore ideal defensive stability at Barcelona following Iñigo Martínez’s departure. For this reason, they have targeted Bastoni from Inter Milan as their star reinforcement. He is not only a completely consistent player but also possesses exceptional game reading. With him, they could gain many offensive opportunities while also balancing the defensive line, rotating with Gerard Martin.
Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals. While they recover Kylian Mbappé, coach Álvaro Arbeloa faces the difficult absence of Thibaut Courtois, forcing him to make changes to his starting lineup.
Despite numerous inconsistencies, Real Madrid have managed to remain competitive in both LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League. Nevertheless, coach Álvaro Arbeloa faces the most difficult challenge of the season, as he goes up against Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals. Although he has recovered Kylian Mbappé, he has the difficult absence of Thibaut Courtois, forcing him to make drastic changes to the starting lineup.
Thibaut Courtois has been diagnosed with a muscle injury in the rectus femoris of his right quadriceps after the game vs. Manchester City in the Champions League. With this, he will be absent for both legs against Bayern Munich, as he will be out for around a month. In his absence, Real Madrid will lose one of the most decisive players of recent years, posing a challenge in reaching the semifinals.
Throughout his career with Los Blancos, the Belgian has established as a difference-maker, being key in the last two Champions League titles. Although he does not have outstanding footwork, Courtois is one of the best shot-stoppers in the world, even entering the conversation of the greatest goalkeepers in history. Because of this, coach Arbeloa will have a difficult challenge in replacing his absence.
In his place, Andriy Lunin will position as Real Madrid’s starting goalkeeper, looking to establish himself and compete for the starting role. Despite having limited playing time, the Ukrainian has shown he can rise to the occasion, even becoming a protagonist in previous editions of the competition. Nevertheless, he does not manage to reach the same level of saves as the Belgian, making it a massive challenge.
Andriy Lunin of Real Madrid catches the ball in front of Julián Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid.
Andriy Lunin faces a decisive challenge with Real Madrid
After arriving at Real Madrid in 2018, Andriy Lunin established as one of the best goalkeepers in La Liga. While he does not have a lot of playing time, the Ukrainian earned his spot as Courtois’ backup, playing key roles on several occasions, such as in the 2023–24 Champions League, delivering a stellar performance against Manchester City. Nevertheless, he faces another difficult challenge with Los Blancos, as he looks to compete for the starting role.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Lunin has played just 495 minutes, arriving with little match rhythm and confidence to face Bayern Munich. In addition, he is coming off conceding four goals in the last two matches. Nevertheless, Andriy has a great opportunity to shine again in the Champions League, looking to attract the attention of several teams ahead of the 2026–27 season, as he could seek a more prominent role.
Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid warms up during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
After a heroic victory over Manchester City, Real Madrid look to secure their place in the Champions League semifinals, facing Bayern Munich. For this, fans are closely monitoring the status of Kylian Mbappé, who could play a key role in today’s match.
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich face off today in the quarterfinals of the 2025–26 Champions League, seeking a spot in the tournament’s semifinals. While Los Blancos arrive with several doubts about their performance, the German side comes in top form, with 13 consecutive matches without defeat. For this reason, fans are watching Kylian Mbappé’s status for today’s game, as he could play a decisive role.
After starting in the previous match, Kylian Mbappé is full condition to start again today for Real Madrid. However, the Frenchman has not managed to recover his scoring form since his return, now going three consecutive matches without scoring. Because of this, he could come in highly motivated, looking for a goal to silence criticism of his current form in the Champions League.
Alongside the Frenchman, Los Blancos will rely on Vinicius Jr. in attack, who has regained his physical and scoring sharpness. However, they will battle to find space against the German side’s solid defense, which will look to apply tight marking to stop their attacking progress. Therefore, the presence of Federico Valverde and Arda Güler will be decisive in creating space on the counterattack, taking advantage of their opponent’s high press.
Like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany also appears to be recovering several key players. Both Manuel Neuer and Harry Kane are expected to start in today’s match, providing a decisive boost to their intentions. With this, they would gain structural solidity and could look to impose their complex style of play to defeat Los Blancos, ending a seven-year streak without beating them.
Serge Gnabry of Bayern Munich runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Federico Valverde of Real Madrid.
Real Madrid lineups vs Bayern Munich
Real Madrid have significant absences in their starting lineup, as Thibaut Courtois, Rodrygo Goes, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy remain sidelined with injuries. However, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will have Kylian Mbappé available, providing a significant boost compared to previous matches. Along with this, and the strong form of Vinicius Jr. and Federico Valverde, they will look to secure a key victory.
Considering this, Real Madrid will lineup as follows: Andriy Lunin; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Antonio Rüdiger, Álvaro Carreras; Federico Valverde, Thiago Pitarch, Aurelien Tchouameni, Arda Guler; Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappé.
Bayern Munich predicted lineup vs Real Madrid
Bayern Munich arrive for the match against Real Madrid in top form. Not only have they managed to dominate in results, but they also maintain a powerful style of play. In addition, coach Vincent Kompany is recovering most of his roster, with only Sven Ulreich absent due to injury. Because of this, Harry Kane could lead the attack, looking to make the difference alongside Luis Díaz and Michael Olise.
With this in mind, Bayern could play as follows: Manuel Neuer; Josip Stanišić, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Konrad Laimer; Aleksandar Pavlović, Joshua Kimmich; Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Luis Diaz; Harry Kane.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid looks on during the UEFA Champions League.
With the winning goal against Atletico Madrid, Robert Lewandowski is close to matching a 75-year goalscoring record in La Liga not even Lionel Messi got the chance to challenge.
Robert Lewandowski proved once again that age is just a number, delivering the decisive blow for FC Barcelona in their win over Atletico Madrid despite being 37 years old and operating in a reduced role this season. That late winner has now positioned the Polish striker on the brink of a 75-year-old La Liga goalscoring record that even Lionel Messi was unable to reach during his time at the club.
With head coach Hansi Flick deploying Dani Olmo as a false nine, neither Ferran Torres nor Lewandowski was in the starting lineup against Atletico Madrid. Coming off the bench in the 79th minute with the score level at 1-1, Lewandowski pounced in the 87th minute, turning home a rebound from Juan Musso after a powerful Joao Cancelo strike, to seal a crucial 2-1 victory and inch closer to a remarkable milestone.
According to Diario Sport, that goal against Atletico leaves Lewandowski just one behind the record set by Juan Vazquez, who became La Liga’s top scorer among players aged 37 or older during the 1950-51 season with Celta de Vigo, netting 13 goals. Lewandowski, 75 years on, now sits at 12 La Liga goals for the campaign.
A muscle issue during preseason slowed Lewandowski’s start to the 2025-26 campaign, gradually costing him his place as Barcelona’s undisputed first-choice striker. Still, he opened his La Liga account with a brace against Valencia on Matchday 4 on September 14, and with his birthday falling on August 21, every single one of his 12 league goals this season has been scored as a 37-year-old.
Messi has claimed countless records in La Liga over the years, both as Barcelona‘s all-time top scorer and across the competition’s history. However, his 2021 departure from the Blaugrana at age 34 cut short any chance he had of ever challenging Vazquez’s mark, leaving the record untouched for Lewandowski to now chase.
With 30 La Liga matchdays in the books, Lewandowski still has up to eight games remaining to not only match but surpass the 75-year-old record. Having scored 12 goals in 25 appearances, if he can maintain anywhere near that pace, the Polish legend is well-placed to make history before the season is out.
Lewandowski chasing another record he already shares with Messi
Several factors have chipped away at Lewandowski’s status as an automatic starter, including his contract expiring at the end of the season, the emergence of Ferran Torres and Flick’s tactical flexibility in deploying Marcus Rashford or Dani Olmo in central positions. Yet the veteran continues to prove his value from the bench, where he is now chasing yet another record.
Lewandowski has scored six goals as a substitute in the current season, matching the total Ferran Torres managed last season and equaling Messi‘s own benchmark from the 2012-13 campaign. The outright record belongs to fellow Argentine Juan Antonio Pizzi, who scored eight goals off the bench across the 1996-97 seasons, another milestone well within the Polish striker’s reach before the curtain falls on the campaign.
Robert Lewandowski and Lionel Messi playing for Barcelona.
Ahead of the UEFA Champions League clash against Real Madrid, Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthaus slammed Vinicius Junior and his constant "complains and whines."
Real Madrid will host Bayern Munich in one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, with Vinicius Junior among the players drawing the most attention ahead of the tie. However, German legend Lothar Matthaus has taken aim at the Brazilian star in the buildup, calling out what he described as a persistent habit of “complains and whines.”
With the Champions League quarterfinals getting underway this week, Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich shapes up as a clash that could easily have been a final, pitting a Spanish side that relies heavily on individual brilliance from the likes of Vinicius and Federico Valverde against a Bavarian outfit built on relentless high-intensity soccer. While the Brazilian has the quality to tip the balance in Real Madrid’s favor, Matthaus chose to shine a light on the more controversial side of the winger’s game.
Speaking on Sky Sports Germany, the legend turned pundit did not hold back in his assessment of Vinicius: “He is, of course, a great player, but he provokes incessantly. When someone puts in a proper tackle on him, all he does is complain and whine.“
The 65-year-old also revisited the fallout from the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, where Rodri was named the winner over Vinicius and the entire Real Madrid squad chose to boycott the gala in Paris. “Rodri was chosen and they said: ‘It’s unfair. One of ours should have won. We are boycotting it,’ and you just don’t do that. Out of respect for the opponent, the other teams, and the other players,” he added.
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
Matthaus wrapped up his comments by suggesting that this pattern of behavior has taken a toll on the club’s standing in the game: “That is how a club that has achieved great things, which has a truly glorious history, loses prestige. I also don’t think Real Madrid‘s behavior in recent years has been correct.”
The timing of Matthaus’s remarks adds an extra layer of tension to an already charged occasion, coming on the heels of the alleged racial abuse Vinicius suffered during the game against Benfica, as well as the Brazilian’s taunting gesture toward Manchester City fans after Rodri’s flag was displayed in the stands last season. With such a prominent German voice weighing in, all eyes will be on Vinicius to let his performance do the talking when the two sides meet.
Vinicius’ strong record against Bayern
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich rank among the most storied clubs in European soccer, with Los Blancos holding a historical edge in their head-to-head record of 13 wins to Bayern’s 11, with four draws across 28 meetings. When Vinicius has been on the pitch, that advantage has been particularly pronounced on the continental stage.
The only Champions League series between the two clubs in which Vinicius featured came in the 2023-24 semifinal. The first leg in Munich ended 2-2, with Vinicius scoring both of Real Madrid’s goals, before Los Blancos edged the return leg 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu to advance, a tie in which the Brazilian proved to be the decisive difference-maker against the German giants.
Vinicius Junior (L) of Real Madrid CF and Lothar Matthaus (R), now Sky Sports pundit.
As concern grew in Colombia over his fitness for the 2026 World Cup, Minnesota United issued a positive update on James Rodriguez's health.
James Rodriguez sent alarm bells ringing after the Colombia national team revealed the midfielder had suffered a severe case of dehydration following the March friendlies, with the 2026 World Cup just months away. Several days after the episode, Minnesota United offered an encouraging update on the star’s condition.
On Monday, April 6, Minnesota issued a statement with welcome news. “James reported to the club’s training facility today, Monday, April 6, and participated in a supervised return-to-activity session. His reintegration into full team training will follow the protocols established by the club’s medical department and will be guided entirely by his clinical progress,” part of the update read.
The medical setback forced Rodriguez to sit out Minnesota’s last match, a 2-1 road win over the LA Galaxy last Saturday, adding to what has already been a stop-start start to the MLS season in which he has managed just 39 minutes across two appearances.
James Rodriguez of Colombia is challenged by Petar Musa of Croatia.
The Monday statement also moved to put to rest speculation that Rodriguez had been suffering from rhabdomyolysis, with the club stating that “medical professionals can unequivocally state there has been no clinical or laboratory evidence of rhabdomyolysis.” Minnesota also called for restraint around speculation regarding the midfielder’s health, confirming that all future updates would come directly through official club channels.
Minnesota’s next fixture is an away match against San Diego FC in the 2026 MLS season on Saturday the 11th. While no specific timeline for his return has been provided, the news of Rodriguez not only being discharged but reporting to the club’s training facility has been welcomed by both the Loons and the Colombian national team, who have serious ambitions heading into the World Cup.
Luis Diaz opens up on James Rodriguez’s episode
The March international window was a difficult one for Colombia, who were beaten 2-1 by Croatia and 3-1 by France in back-to-back results that served as a sobering reality check with fewer than three months until the World Cup begins. But for one of Rodriguez’s teammates, Luis Diaz, something about the captain had seemed off even during the games themselves.
Speaking to ESPN on Monday, the Bayern Munich winger shared what he had observed from Rodriguez during the international window. “I saw him looking a bit unwell after the match. He was feeling poorly after the game; it was like food poisoning, but I don’t have the details. I hope he is doing very well and recovers soon,” Diaz said.
Diaz then spoke to Rodriguez’s dedication to the national team and expressed confidence that the No. 10 would arrive at the World Cup in top form. “He is the captain, and obviously he is going to want to be there, helping the team, keeping us in sync to always try to help as much as possible. He is always available; he is going to want to play every time, whether he is physically well or not. Let’s hope he can get his rest in properly, that he continues to make the most of his situation with his club, that he keeps reaching the level we all want from him, and he will arrive (at the World Cup) in good shape,” he concluded.
Al Nassr is facing a legal dispute with Al Hilal over Abdullah Al-Hamdan, a scenario that could end up affecting Crtistiano Ronaldo's team.
Al Nassr have seen their 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title push complicated by a legal dispute with Al Hilal involving one of their most recent signings, Abdullah Al-Hamdan. With a ruling yet to be handed down, several scenarios could emerge that would have a direct impact on Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates.
Al-Hamdan joined Al Nassr in February as one of the few notable moves of the 2026 winter transfer window, arriving on a free transfer after terminating his contract following five years at Al Hilal. However, the manner in which the 26-year-old striker departed has not sat well with his former club, which has since decided to pursue legal action over the move.
Al Hilal filed a formal complaint against Al-Hamdan following his move to Al Nassr on February 5. According to Saudi outlet Al Arriyadiyah, the complaint is currently under review by the Professionalism and Player Status Committee of the Saudi Football Federation, meaning a ruling that goes against the player or the club remains a possibility.
The crux of Al Hilal’s complaint is the accusation that Al-Hamdan terminated his contract without “just cause,” with the club characterizing the move as “a clear violation without just cause and a blatant circumvention of the regulations.” At the heart of the dispute is Al-Hamdan’s decision to end his deal unilaterally rather than negotiating a mutual termination with Al Hilal first.
Abdullah Al-Hamdan of Al Nassr celebrating.
According to the same outlet, Al-Hamdan’s contract with Al Hilal was set to expire on February 6, but the striker notified the club of his unilateral decision to terminate via email. Just two days before the winter transfer window opened, Al Nassr moved quickly to sign him on a free transfer, and he has since featured in 10 games, scoring four goals and adding one assist.
How could Ronaldo’s Al Nassr be affected by the legal dispute?
Because Al Hilal’s complaint was filed specifically against Al-Hamdan, the initial expectation would be that any ruling from the Professionalism and Player Status Committee would fall on the player alone. However, precedents from similar cases suggest that Al Nassr could also find themselves on the wrong end of a decision.
Should the ruling favor Al Hilal, Al-Hamdan could be ordered to pay a significant financial penalty. On the sporting side, he could also face a suspension from official competition, with a maximum ban of six months on the table.
As for Al Nassr, FIFA and Saudi Arabian Football Federation rules stipulate that if Al-Hamdan is unable to cover any financial penalty, the club would be liable to pay it on his behalf. Furthermore, if it is determined that Al Nassr played a role in inducing the player to breach his contract, the club could face a ban on registering new players for up to two consecutive transfer windows.
A relevant precedent dates back to 2022, when Mohamed Kanno, with his contract winding down, appeared set to join Al Nassr before ultimately signing a new deal with Al Hilal. The resulting breach of the agreed arrangement led to Kanno receiving a four-month ban, while Al Hilal were handed a two-window transfer ban and a $7.2 million fine, a case that underscores the very real risk facing Ronaldo’s side if the committee rules against them.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and Abdullah Al Hamdan (R) of Al Nassr.
In order to keep the pursuit of the Saudi Pro League, Cristiano Ronaldo has received a key squad boost with Kingsley Coman returning to Al Nassr training sessions.
Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Al Nassr at the perfect moment to reignite their push for the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title and end the club’s recent trophy drought. Adding to the positive mood around the squad, star teammate Kingsley Coman has also made his way back to training.
Coman had been sidelined after picking up a muscular issue during a training session in the March international break, forcing him to miss Al Nassr’s last league outing against Al Najma. With Ronaldo netting a brace in a 5-2 victory over the bottom-of-the-table side, the team got the result they needed, and with tougher fixtures on the horizon, Coman’s return could not come at a better time.
After a two-day rest following Friday’s match, Coman rejoined the group for training on Monday. According to Al Riyadiyah, the French winger made a strong impression despite returning from injury and is expected to be in contention for Al Nassr‘s next fixture against Al Okhdood on Saturday, April 11.
With several players unavailable through injury, head coach Jorge Jesus shifted to a 4-4-2 formation rather than his preferred 4-2-3-1, pairing Cristiano Ronaldo with Abdullah Al-Hamdan up front and deploying Sadio Mané and Abdulrahman Ghareeb on the flanks. Coman’s return gives the Portuguese manager a welcome attacking option to rotate back into the mix.
Since arriving from Bayern Munich, Coman has wasted no time making himself at home at Al Nassr. Comfortable on either flank but particularly effective on the right, the Frenchman has racked up 10 goals and 11 assists across 32 appearances in all competitions, five of those assists going directly to Ronaldo, cementing his status as one of the forward’s most important partners on the pitch.
Al Nassr still managing key absences
Ronaldo’s return from his month-long hamstring layoff, capped by a brace against Al Najma, and Coman’s comeback have provided a significant lift for the squad. However, with seven games remaining in the Saudi Pro League and Al Nassr sitting at the top of the table, the club is still navigating some important injury concerns.
The most pressing issues are at the back, where both Mohamed Simakan and Iñigo Martínez are causing concern. The French center back was restricted to gym work after featuring against Al Najma, while the former Barcelona defender continues to recover from a hamstring tear sustained before the March international break and has yet to return to team training.
Joao Felix, the squad’s leading contributor with 21 goals and 15 assists, is another significant name on the injury list. Reports indicate that after missing the Al Najma game, he remains in a rehabilitation program, though both he and the other absentees could potentially be fit in time for Saturday’s fixture.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and Kingsley Coman (R) of Al Nassr.
Although the match against Real Madrid is one of the toughest challenges of the season, Bayern Munich enter as the clear favorite to secure the win, riding a dominant streak. In addition, coach Vincent Kompany could get a boost, as Harry Kane is reportedly nearing his return to the field.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Bayern Munich have established as one of the best teams in the world. With a dominant style of play, they come in as the clear favorites to take the win against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals. Moreover, coach Vincent Kompany receives a major offensive boost. Following his ankle issues, Harry Kane is reportedly close to returning with the German side to face the Spanish side.
Despite this injury comeback, Kompany did not give any clues about Harry Kane’s starting role against Real Madrid: “The most important thing for us right now is that Harry is available. A muscle injury is different from a ligament injury. Harry knows how important this match is. He also needs to tell us if he is ready to play. We want and need to win this match. We’ll see what happens tomorrow.”
Bayern Munich will be able to count on Harry Kane to face Real Madrid, following his ankle issues that kept him out of the last two matches. The Englishman took part in the most recent group training session, participating in all the exercises. As a result, coach Vincent Kompany will start him, looking for him to be a difference-maker in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.
As it is not a serious injury, Harry Kane will be part of Bayern Munich’s starting lineup, as his impact goes beyond the scoring aspect. With the Englishman, they have their best creative asset, dropping into midfield to receive the ball and opening spaces for his teammates. Being a high-intensity match, coach Vincent Kompany could give him the starting role if he receives medical clearance.
Harry Kane of Bayern Munich shoots during the Bundesliga match.
Vinicius Jr. highlights Harry Kane danger in Bayern Munich offense
While Bayern Munich have a deep and competitive roster, Harry Kane stands out as the team’s most decisive player.In the 40 matches he has played, the Englishman has scored 48 goals, providing 5 assists. After being included in the German side’s squad, the striker is preparing for a potential return, making Vinicius Jr. highlight his impact in Real Madrid’s game plan.
In the most recent press conference, Vinicius Jr. acknowledged that the possible presence of Harry Kane in the German side completely changes the game plan: “It changes if he is not starting, because he scores many goals, but they have a great team where many players change positions. We have to be prepared.”
Even if Serge Gnabry could take Kane’s spot, he would not have the same impact at a structural level, leaving significant gaps in the creative phase. For this reason, coach Kompany could risk the Englishman if he is fully fit, looking to make the difference and break down Real Madrid’s defense with the veteran’s versatility, alongside the pace and dribbling of Luis Díaz and Michael Olise on the wings.
Harry Kane of FC Bayern Munich celebrates scoring a goal in the Champions League.
Ahead of the clash against Bayern Munich, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa backed Kylian Mbappe with a bold statement: "He knows what Real Madrid is."
Kylian Mbappe has finally returned to Real Madrid‘s starting lineup, but the team has continued to struggle for consistency even with their star striker back in the fold. Now facing a pivotal test against Bayern Munich in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has come out in strong support of the French forward, insisting that “he knows what Real Madrid is.”
For the first time since February 17, Mbappe was back in Madrid‘s starting eleven over the weekend against Mallorca, a match that ended in a stunning 2-1 defeat for Los Blancos. The loss dealt a significant blow to their La Liga title hopes, with Barcelona extending their advantage at the top, and questions quickly emerged about Mbappe’s impact and the shift in playing style compared to when Brahim Diaz had been filling his role.
At Monday’s press conference, Arbeloa was asked about Mbappe’s place in the team ahead of the Bayern tie and did not hesitate to back his man: “It’s clear that Mbappe has different qualities and characteristics than Brahim, and because of that, we have to play in a different way. But I am delighted to have that ‘problem’—to have great players at my disposal, and to have a player like Kylian Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid for matches like tomorrow’s, for knockout ties like this one.“
Arbeloa also expressed full confidence in the player who currently leads the Champions League scoring charts. “I am certain we will see Kylian at his very best, leading the team as he always has, and with great confidence in the rest of the players. In the same way you mention Bellingham, it is a stroke of luck to have everyone available and not have a squad with 10 or 11 injuries, as we’ve had in the past,” he added.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid CF.
One of the most pointed moments of the press conference came when Arbeloa was asked whether Mbappe had yet to fully grasp what it means to represent Real Madrid, drawing a sharp and direct response. “Mbappe knows perfectly well what Real Madrid is. He dreamt about being a Real Madrid player. I’d like you to ask me again after the Bayern tie,” he said.
Mbappe will also be walking a disciplinary tightrope on Tuesday night. A booking in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu would trigger an automatic suspension through yellow card accumulation, ruling him out of the second leg in Germany.
Does Mbappe’s presence affect Real Madrid’s performance?
Despite missing both the second leg against Benfica and the first leg against Manchester City, Mbappe still leads the competition with a remarkable return of 13 goals in just nine games. However, the Mallorca result immediately reignited debate about how Real Madrid’s style and effectiveness shifts depending on whether the Frenchman is in the lineup.
During Mbappe’s limited involvement in recent matches due to a knee sprain, Real Madrid put together five wins, including victories over Manchester City and Atletico Madrid in La Liga, showing impressive levels of both individual quality and tactical cohesion. That run came to an abrupt halt against Mallorca, in the very game that marked Mbappe’s return to the starting lineup.
As Arbeloa confirmed, Brahim Diaz is expected to make way for Mbappe, with the attacking line set to be led by the Frenchman alongside Vinicius Junior. The two are known not only for their exceptional individual qualities but also for their limited defensive output, a trait that raises legitimate concerns against a Bayern Munich side that thrives on building fluidly from the back.
After defining an era at Barcelona, Ronaldinho stands as one of the club’s most important legends. However, the Brazilian has chosen to praise Lamine Yamal’s impact on the Blaugrana roster, acknowledging his talent.
Amid an era that seemed hopeless, Ronaldinho emerged as the team’s most important player, completely transforming Barcelona’s impact. The Brazilian not only won two LaLiga titles but also lifted the 2005–06 UEFA Champions League, leaving a historic legacy. As a living legend of Los Blaugranas, he remains closely attentive to the team’s current situation, praising Lamine Yamal and his impact.
In a recent interview with Diario Olé, Ronaldinho was asked if he thought the historic number 10 jersey was in good hands with Lamine Yamal. In response, the Brazilian said: ”Without a doubt. He is one of the best in the world, still very young, but he already does incredible things. It is very well taken care of.“
Despite being only 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has already played 147 matches for Barcelona, becoming an undisputed starter under Hansi Flick. Moreover, he has made a real impact, scoring 46 goals and providing 50 assists, making him one of the team’s most productive players. With this influence, the Spaniard finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, making it clear that his talent is on another level.
Beyond the statistics, Lamine has lived up to the historic number 10 jersey, inherited from Lionel Messi. With his versatility and game intelligence, the Spaniard provides reliability to the team, not only excelling in dribbling but also contributing to the attacking midfield role, unlocking matches against defensively solid opponents like Newcastle United or Atlético Madrid. With this, he is on track to build a historic legacy at Barcelona.
Lamine Yamal of Spain reacts during an international friendly match between Spain and Egypt
Lamine Yamal tipped as breakout star of 2026 World Cup
Although Lamine Yamal has proven to be one of the best players in the world, he is still often regarded as a potential talent, having won the Kopa Trophy in 2024 and 2025. However, he has not yet led Barcelona to a Champions League title as a key figure, nor Spain in the UEFA Euro, as he did not score in the final. For this reason, he could consolidate his status at the 2026 World Cup with his national team.
Unlike other editions, Spain arrive at the anticipated tournament as a clear favorite to win the trophy. Not only do they have players with extensive experience, but they also boast young talents capable of making the difference. If Lamine Yamal manages to emerge as the tournament’s top scorer or MVP, winning the trophy, he would immediately be considered a generational player—something that already happened with Mbappé.
In case he shines at the 2026 World Cup, Lamine Yamal would have nothing left to prove, as he would have demonstrated his impact in decisive moments. With this, the Spaniard would become a clear favorite for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, potentially establishing as the best player in the world, becoming the youngest Barcelona player to win both awards in the same season.
Neymar Jr. continues to pursue a spot with Brazil for the 2026 World Cup, shining with Santos after his meniscus surgery. However, the veteran has gone a step further, as he has reportedly undergone another procedure, aiming to convince Carlo Ancelotti of his return.
Despite not being called up by Brazil since Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival, Neymar Jr. remains focused on earning his place at the 2026 World Cup. Following his knee surgery, the veteran has been thriving with Santos, playing a key role both as a scorer and a creator. After not being included in the most recent friendlies, Neymar reportedly underwent another procedure on his knee, seeking to reach full physical condition for the anticipated tournament.
According to Estadao Esporte, Neymar Jr. decided to undergo a regenerative procedure on his knee, aiming to convince Carlo Ancelotti that he is in full shape to compete with Brazil in the 2026 World Cup. Using his own blood, this procedure seeks to accelerate the healing of micro-injuries and strengthen joint tissues. With this, the veteran aims to prove his full physical condition ahead of the tournament.
Neymar Jr. has followed a strategy of managing his playing time, not featuring in every Santos match. As a result, the veteran has been able to boost his performances, recording three goals and three assists in six games. Beyond the statistics, he remains the team’s best player, creating space and distributing play to his teammates. For this reason, the 34-year-old star is pushing for a return to Brazil’s national team.
Even though the veteran has been impressing, Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly not convinced about his return to Brazil. Instead, he is looking toward alternatives that can deliver immediate results, with Endrick, Igor Thiago, and Lucas Paquetá emerging as the leading options. However, Neymar could still push for a return to the national team by continuing to deliver solid performances with Santos.
Neymar Junior of Santos runs with the ball in front of Fagner of Cruzeiro with his knee protected.
Neymar Jr. could be a major boost for Brazil at the 2026 World Cup
After his numerous injuries, Neymar Jr. is no longer at the same level he showed during his time at PSG or Barcelona. However, he has managed to adapt his style of play, becoming more of a creative midfielder rather than a dribbling winger. While this could raise some doubts, the veteran could still elevate the performances of players like Vinicius Jr. or João Pedro at the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar’s potential presence would attract the attention of opposing defenders, opening up space for his teammates to shine. Moreover, Brazil still lacks a player capable of dictating play and finding spaces the way the veteran does. In addition, he could be key in the rotation, bringing a different rhythm against more compact defenses—something that could be common in the anticipated tournament.
Neymar Junior of Santos looks on during the Brasileirao 2026 match.
Although Xabi Alonso had emerged as the ideal solution for Real Madrid, he ultimately ended up being dismissed amid reported dressing room issues. In response, Vinicius Jr. revealed that he had problems with the former head coach during his time at the club.
Following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Xabi Alonso emerged as the ideal solution for Real Madrid, as he was coming off an impressive spell with Bayer Leverkusen. However, he was dismissed just a few months after his arrival, amid poor results and reported dressing room issues. Far from hiding these differences,Vinicius Jr. has acknowledged having difficulties with Xabi Alonso during his tenure as head coach.
“I played matches, but only a few minutes. But every coach has their own methods, and I didn’t connect the way he (Xabi Alonso) wanted. Still, it was a learning experience, and I hope I can continue with Arbeloa, with whom I have a wonderful connection and who has always given me confidence… With Arbeloa, I’ve had a special connection, like I did with Ancelotti. He has always made clear what he wants from me,” Vinicius Jr. said in the latest press conference.
Under Xabi Alonso, the Brazilian had a less prominent role on the offensive end, taking on multiple defensive responsibilities. As a result, he delivered fairly inconsistent performances, leading to him being frequently substituted—something that did not usually happen. In response, Vinicius Jr. reportedly paused his renewal, making it clear that he did not see a future at the club if the Spanish coach remained in charge.
Despite being dismissed, Xabi maintained solid performances at Real Madrid, recording 5 losses, 20 wins, and 3 draws in 28 matches, outperforming Álvaro Arbeloa. Alongside this, he aimed for a dominant style of play, building his attack around Kylian Mbappé. As the season progressed, the Spaniard was forced to adapt his approach, as the absence of an organizing midfielder defined his short stint at the club.
Xabi Alonso, Head Coach of Real Madrid, consoles Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.
Xabi Alonso lacked the players to impose his style at Real Madrid
Upon his arrival at Los Blancos, coach Xabi reportedly requested the signing of a playmaking midfielder, which was also turned down. As a result, the front office expected Eduardo Camavinga or Jude Bellingham to step up in that role. However, neither of them managed to truly excel in that aspect, leading to a constant imbalance within the team.
Alongside these issues, the coach failed to properly fit Vinicius as a forward, instead deploying him as a left wing-back, while relying on Bellingham and Guler as attacking midfielders behind Mbappé. Ultimately, Xabi Alonso’s departure can be summed up by his attempt to adapt the players to his system rather than adjusting his system to suit his players. As a result, the Spaniard was dismissed, leaving fans disappointed.
With no renewal agreement reached yet, Vinicius Jr.’s future at Real Madrid remains one of the biggest uncertainties, fueling rumors of a possible departure. In response, the Brazilian has come out to dismiss this information, making his intentions clear.
Vinicius Jr. has established as one of Real Madrid’s most important players in recent years, playing a key role in several titles. Despite this, his future at the club has been surrounded by rumors of a possible departure, as his contract runs until 2027 and no new agreement has been reached. In response, the Brazilian decided to address the rumors immediately, providing an important update on his renewal with Los Blancos.
In the latest Champions League press conference, Vinicius decided to shut down any rumors on his departure of the Spanish side: “I hope I can stay here for a long time. I still have one year left on my contract, but I have a lot of confidence in the president. At the right moment, we will complete the renewal. It’s the club of my dreams, and I want to stay here for many years.“
Despite not being in his best season with Los Blancos, the Brazilian remains the team’s second top scorer and second top assist provider, being a key all-around player for the squad. Moreover, the arrival of Álvaro Arbeloa has been crucial in improving Vinicius’ situation, as they not only have a good relationship, but he has also rediscovered his best form on the pitch—something that seemed unthinkable under Xabi Alonso.
Not only has Vinicius improved his impact on the pitch, but he has also improved his physical condition. Following Xabi Alonso’s departure, the Brazilian reportedly admitted to his teammates that he was not in his best shape. In response, the 25-year-old star stated: “I’ve gone through difficult moments, the fans put pressure on me, but I’m at my best version… I do work at the club and at home with my physio.”
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Vinicius Jr. defends his attacking partnership with Kylian Mbappé
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Kylian Mbappé’s dominant offensive performances have emerged as a main reason behind Vinicius Jr.’s dip in form. In response, several analysts and former players have pointed to a lack of on-field connection between the two stars, raising doubts about their coexistence. However, the Brazilian has come out to defend his attacking partnership with the Frenchman.
“People say many things. When there are many good players, Kylian has always scored goals. We have to stay connected. It’s a complicated match. Mbappé makes the difference. I also have a strong connection with him off the pitch,” Vinicius Jr. said in the latest press conference.
Vinicius and Mbappé have played 81 games together, during which they have been involved in 18 goals between them. With this, the Frenchman stands out as a better teammate statistically than Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric, trailing only Rodrygo Goes and Federico Valverde by a narrow margin despite having played in far fewer matches. For this reason, coach Arbeloa has decided to keep them as his offensive duo.
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid celebrates victory following the UEFA Champions League.
After their win over Torino, AC Milan now face Napoli, looking to consolidate their second-place position in Serie A while closing the gap on leaders Inter Milan. Nonetheless, coach Massimiliano Allegri has surprisingly decided to leave Christian Pulisic on the bench.
Despite their loss to Lazio, AC Milan managed to bounce back from their poor run with a victory against Torino. However, they face a much more complex challenge today, as they take on Napoli, who are also chasing second place in the Serie A standings. For this reason, fans are keeping a close eye on Christian Pulisic’s status for the match, as he could remain a key difference-maker in securing the win.
Massimiliano Allegri has decided to leave Pulisic on the bench alongside Rafael Leão for today’s game. Far from being due to any physical issues, this decision appears to be a tactical adjustment in response to inconsistent performances in recent matches. In their absence, Christopher Nkunku and Niclas Füllkrug will lead the attack, aiming to provide an offensive boost.
Pulisic has not managed to regain the scoring instinct he showed at the start of the season. With just one assist so far in 2026, the USMNT star is far from his best version with the Rossoneri. While he remains important at a collective level, he has not been making the difference the way he used to. For this reason, coach Allegri has decided to adjust the attack, also leaving Leão on the bench, as he too is far from his best form.
The Rossoneri are aiming for a different offensive approach than usual. Throughout the season, they have rarely relied on the Nkunku–Füllkrug pairing, so they could look to exploit the spaces between Napoli’s defensive lines to create more room and generate scoring chances. However, coach Allegri is making a risky call, as neither player has managed to make a significant impact this season.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan
Napoli lineup vs AC Milan
Coming off four consecutive victories, Napoli face AC Milan in top form, aiming for second place in Serie A. However, coach Antonio Conte continues to be without Antonio Vergara, Romelu Lukaku, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, David Neres, and Amir Rrahmani remains uncertain. Despite this, they have Kevin De Bruyne and Scott McTominay, who are expected to make the difference.
Considering this, Napoli will lineup as follows: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic; Alessandro Buongiorno, Mathias Olivera, Juan Jésus; Miguel Gutiérrez, Stanislav Lobotka, Frank Anguissa, Leonardo Spinazzola; Kevin De Bruyne, Scott McTominay; Giovane.
AC Milan lineup vs Napoli
AC Milan come into today’s match under full pressure to secure a win against Napoli, as a loss would drop them to third place in the Serie A standings. For this, coach Massimiliano Allegri has almost his entire roster available, with only Matteo Gabbia remaining out due to injury. However, Pulisic and Leão will be on the bench, with Nkunku and Füllkrug favored instead, adjusting the attack compared to previous matches.
With this in mind, the Rossoneri will lineup as follows: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Koni De Winter, Strahinja Pavlovic; Alexis Saelemaekers, Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Davide Bartesaghi; Niclas Fullkrug, Christopher Nkunku.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan warms up before the Serie A match.
Cristiano Ronaldo has returned from injury and is fit to play for Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 41 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, when they’ll be hosting Al Ettifaq for Matchday 29 of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League at Al Awwal Park. The Portuguese extended his goal tally netting the opener in the last 2-0 win against Al Okhdood.
Regarding the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Selecao will play two friendlies on home soil: the first against Chile on June 6 and the second against Nigeria on June 10.
So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 25 goals and provided 4 assists in 28 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 968 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr FC scoring a bicycle kick.
Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule
After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule.
From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final.
With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.
"With a nod to Lionel Messi, Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham claimed that 'dreams really can come true' as the club debuted at Nu Stadium."
Inter Miami finally christened their new home at Miami Freedom Park, now officially known as Nu Stadium, in Saturday night’s MLS match against Austin FC. With a nod to team star Lionel Messi, co-owner David Beckham described the occasion as a “dream come true.”
Messi‘s arrival in 2023 served as a catalyst for Inter Miami’s ambitious plan to move from Chase Stadium to a state-of-the-art new home. Fast-forward to today, and one of the most ambitious projects spearheaded by co-owners Beckham and Jorge Mas has been realized, with the first competitive match at the venue taking place on April 4, 2026.
Before the opening whistle against Austin, Beckham addressed the crowd with an emotional speech: “When I came to America and MLS 20 years ago, my dream was to win championships, help raise the game of soccer that I love so much and to build my own team.“
The England icon then reflected on the journey, the trophies and the transformative presence of Messi. “Thirteen years ago, I announced Miami was my choice. We had no name. We had no fans. We had no stadium. Today, I stand in our new home. We are champions of MLS. We have the best player in the history of the game playing in Miami. Dreams really can come true,” Beckham stated.
David Beckham, Co-owner of Inter Miami CF, speaks prior to the game against Austin FC at Nu Stadium.
Mas also took the microphone ahead of the first game at Nu Stadium, setting the tone for what he hopes will be a trophy-laden era at the new venue: “I think this is a personification of what’s possible. I think it’s an amazing stadium, an amazing environment. And listen, our goal is to lift trophies and win championships, and I think this will be a proper home to do that with our fans.“
Lionel Messi’s words for Nu Stadium
Messi’s presence at the club has been intrinsically tied to the stadium project, as Inter Miami’s commercial revenues and investment grew exponentially following his arrival, making Nu Stadium a far more attainable reality. His contract extension announcement last year was made while Miami Freedom Park was still under construction, a fitting symbol of how closely his future and the club’s ambitions have been aligned.
Speaking on Inter Miami’s official social media channels ahead of the debut, Messi expressed his excitement about the new home: “Honestly, it’s spectacular getting to see the new home, the new stadium turned out incredible, and it’s really special to be able to experience it. We’d been eager to play there, to make our debut, to finally be competing there officially, and now the moment has arrived.“
🗣️ Leo Messi: “Nu Stadium is truly impressive. It’s going to be a beautiful day.” pic.twitter.com/sXeBbpe9V2
Guilherme Biro’s goal in the sixth minute had the distinction of being the first ever scored at Nu Stadium, but it was Messi’s header in the 10th minute that gave Inter Miami their first goal at their new home, with Luis Suarez adding another shortly after. With the next home game against the New York Red Bulls on the horizon, Messi will now look to begin writing his legacy at Nu Stadium just as he has done throughout his time with the Herons.
Lionel Messi (L) and David Beckham (R), co-owner of Inter Miami CF.
Former England international Jack Wilshere suggested 16-year-old Max Dowman to be called up for the 2026 World Cup, a move that'd put his as one of the youngest to ever be in the competition.
Max Dowman has captured the attention of European soccer over the past year with his sudden emergence in Arsenal’s first team at just 16 years old. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, former England international Jack Wilshere has thrown his name into the conversation as a potential squad inclusion, which would make him one of the youngest players ever to appear at the tournament.
Still only 15 at the time, Dowman broke records as the youngest player ever to appear in the UEFA Champions League and the youngest to score in both that competition and the Premier League. While he has yet to earn his first senior England cap, Wilshere believes the teenager is not only the future of the Three Lions, but ready for the present.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Wilshere made a candid case for Dowman’s inclusion: “The only thing I would say is, Spain would take him. That’s what I think. We have this way at times in England of building them up but then protecting them. You get caught in that (place): ‘If he goes what will people say?’ He is definitely good enough. Even if he goes and he doesn’t play that much. Which I think he can. I think he is good enough.”
Wilshere then drew a bold comparison with Lamine Yamal, whose contributions proved decisive in Spain’s run to the Euro 2024 title. “He is going to be there eventually. I understand people saying, ‘Maybe not’. But I also think Yamal went as a 16-year-old and he was the best player in the tournament,” he added.
Samuel Edozie of Southampton is tackled by Max Dowman of Arsenal.
Wilshere, who represented England at the 2014 World Cup before retiring from the game, had a front-row seat to Dowman’s development. While serving as Arsenal’s Under-18s coach, he watched Dowman integrate into the squad at just 13 years old, recalling that even then “he was getting the highest numbers in the Under-18s for his sprints, and his high-intensity running.”
Dowman still under Tuchel’s consideration
Despite having yet to earn a senior cap, head coach Thomas Tuchel has not ruled out the possibility of a surprise World Cup call-up for Dowman. After leaving the Arsenal teenager out of his March international break squad, Tuchel was pressed on a potential inclusion at the tournament and left the door firmly ajar.
“We always have the chance to call him up for the World Cup. Why wouldn’t I keep the door open? I keep the door open for anyone with any age. It’s very young and there are arguments that it’s too young but why open all these arguments now? Let him fight for his minutes. At the moment he’s not a regular starter. You could argue you should be maybe a starter at your club to be considered,” he stated in a press conference back in March.
Who is the youngest player ever to appear at the World Cup?
The World Cup brings together the best players from every competing nation, and young stars often find themselves behind more established, experienced names in the pecking order. While Brazil legend Pelé is widely associated with youthful World Cup greatness, currently holding the record as the youngest player to win the tournament, his record as the youngest to play in one has long since been surpassed.
That distinction belongs to Norman Whiteside, who made his World Cup debut for Northern Ireland at Spain 1982 at just 17 years and 41 days old. Behind him sit Samuel Eto’o, who was 17 years and 98 days old when he appeared for Cameroon at France 1998, and Nigeria’s Femi Opabunmi, who was 17 years and 101 days old at Korea-Japan 2002.
Norman Whiteside of Northern Ireland.
Against that backdrop, Max Dowman stands in a position to make history. Born on December 31, 2009, he is currently 16 years old, and with the 2026 World Cup less than three months away, if he earns a call-up and sees the pitch, he would become the youngest player ever to appear in a World Cup match.
With Lionel Messi's MLS and Cristiano Ronaldo's SPL looming as potential destinies, Pep Guardiola's assistant Pep Lijnders confirmed that Bernardo Silva will be departing from Manchester City at the end of the season.
Bernardo Silva‘s future at Manchester City has been one of the club’s biggest open questions, but with fewer than two months left on his contract, his departure has now been confirmed. Set to become a free agent, the Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a move to Lionel Messi‘s MLS or Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League as potential next destinations.
Silva captained Manchester City in their commanding 4-0 FA Cup quarterfinal victory over Liverpool, continuing to play a central role for the club deep into the season. However, Pep Lijnders, Pep Guardiola’s assistant, confirmed after the match that the Portuguese midfielder will be leaving the club when his contract expires at the end of the campaign.
When asked how City could replace Silva, Lijnders was effusive in his praise for the 31-year-old: “You never replace a player with the same kind of player because they don’t exist. Bernardo Silva is unique, the way he control games, the way he moves, the way he receives, the way he leads, the way he sees the solutions, all these things.“
Even without a formal announcement from Silva himself, Lijnders offered a telling glimpse into what lies ahead. “You never search for a replacement of one type of player. You search for what is needed to grow with the team, and somebody who can fit in the first XI… Every good story comes to an end. I hope he enjoys the last months, because it’s only 6 weeks (left). As a good farewell, he deserves all that attention as well,” Guardiola’s assistant stated.
Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool challenges Bernardo Silva of Manchester City.
With that candid admission from Ljinders, Silva is now set to leave City after nine years at the club when his deal expires in June 2026. Since arriving from AS Monaco in 2017, the Portuguese has won six Premier League titles, five Carabao Cups, three Community Shields, two FA Cups, one FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Champions League.
Where will Bernardo Silva go?
As a soon-to-be free agent still performing at the highest level at 31, Silva figures to be one of the most sought-after players of the summer transfer window. Among the leading options reported so far are MLS and the Saudi Pro League, two leagues that have been aggressively building their profiles in the wake of Messi and Ronaldo’s arrivals.
On the other hand, Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Saudi Pro League is another serious option for the Portuguese. A reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr, however, comes with its own complications, as the club’s allotment of ten foreign players is already full, with Wesley returning from his loan at Real Sociedad at the end of the 25-26 season, meaning Al Nassr would need to move someone out before Silva could come in.
Beyond those options, Ben Jacobs has reported that Juventus have already made inquiries, with clubs in Turkey and Spain also said to be monitoring the situation. Silva will be weighing both sporting ambition and personal considerations in making his decision, while the MLS and SPL options each face their own obstacles as European clubs remain very much in the picture.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF, Bernardo Silva of Manchester City, and Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr.
FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick explained Lamine Yamal's angered reaction after the 2-1 win against Atletico Madrid.
Lamine Yamal made headlines after Barcelona‘s win over Atletico Madrid, not only for his performance on the pitch but also for his visibly frustrated reaction despite the three points. After the match, head coach Hansi Flick offered his take on the episode involving the 18-year-old star.
On Saturday, Barcelona traveled to Atletico Madrid for Matchday 30 in a match marked by controversy and ultimately decided by Robert Lewandowski’s 87th-minute strike to make it 2-1. While the victory was a significant step forward in Barcelona’s La Liga title push, Yamal did not appear to share in the celebrations, heading straight to the locker room the moment the final whistle blew.
Asked about Yamal’s reaction in his post-match press conference, Flick offered a measured explanation: “He was a little bit angry. He gave everything, he tried to score goals and give the last pass. It’s normal. Of course he has emotion. This was the game, with emotion, but he’s in the dressing room and everything is good.“
Flick also admitted he was not entirely sure what had triggered the reaction. “I don’t know exactly what it was, but as I said before, there was a lot of emotion during the game. Some situations, he tried everything, tried everything, but at the moment he does not have this fortune that he scores the goals, but it can come back,” he added.
The timing of the episode is far from ideal, with Barcelona set to face Atletico Madrid twice more, this time in the Champions League. The first leg is scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, at Camp Nou, with the return leg following on Tuesday the 14th at the Metropolitano.
“We have three days now to prepare for the next match. It’s a very important one in the Champions League and he will be in a better mood than after the game,” Flick said, making clear how much he is counting on Yamal to play a decisive role in Barcelona‘s pursuit of European glory.
Yamal’s reason reportedly revealed
Yamal’s performance against Atletico on Saturday fell well short of his usual standards, with the Spanish winger registering seven shots without a single one hitting the target. However, reports suggest his post-match frustration stemmed not from his own display, but from a disagreement with a member of the coaching staff.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Yamal left the pitch visibly overwhelmed by the volume of instructions and information being relayed to him by José Ramón de la Fuente. The 18-year-old was seen walking off alongside the goalkeeping coach, who also carries responsibilities in strategy and set pieces, exchanging gestures that made his displeasure clear for all to see.
Following their heavy defeat against RCD Mallorca, Real Madrid will face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals. Ahead of this match, coach Álvaro Arbeloa has reportedly decided on Jude Bellingham’s role, amid numerous injuries.
Álvaro Arbeloa faces the most decisive game of the season at Real Madrid, as they face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals. Ahead of the game, los Blancos face a tough absence: Thibaut Courtois. Despite this, the coach has reportedly made a decision regarding Jude Bellingham’s role ahead of this clash, seeking to secure a key victory in the first leg.
According to Iván Martín in OK Diario, Álvaro Arbeloa has decided not to start Jude Bellingham for the match against Bayern Munich. Although the Englishman has already seen minutes in the previous two games, he is not at full fitness to compete as a starter in the Champions League quarterfinals. However, he could get some minutes to regain his competitive rhythm.
In his place, coach Arbeloa could opt for Arda Güler as the left interior, with Thiago Pitarch at the base of midfield alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni. With this setup, Los Blancos would look to repeat the feat they achieved against Manchester City, defeating them in both matches. As a result, Bellingham would have to compete directly for a starting spot with the young Turkish talent.
Unlike his early days at Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham has ceased to be a difference-maker for the team. Not only is he no longer contributing in terms of playmaking, but he is also failing to make an impact in front of goal. Because of this, the Englishman finds himself in a very difficult situation, as he once thrived as an attacking midfielder/false 9—a role that no longer exists under Arbeloa.
Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid looks on during the UEFA Champions League.
Jude Bellingham faces uphill battle at Real Madrid
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Jude Bellingham has gone from being a star player to a fairly debated one. In search of consistency in midfield, coach Arbeloa introduced Thiago Pitarch, gaining greater control of the game. In addition, Federico Valverde and Arda Güler have established themselves as key pillars of the team. As a result, the Englishman no longer seems to have a guaranteed spot in the starting lineup.
Not being a specialist in organizing the team from deep, Jude would not be an option to play alongside Tchouaméni, as his role is more offensive. Therefore, he would have to compete with Valverde and Güler, who are excelling both collectively and individually. With this, coach Álvaro Arbeloa would have to bench one of the two if he wants to rely on the Englishman, setting aside their outstanding run of performances.
Jude Bellingham is experiencing this not only at Real Madrid but also in England. Unlike a few months ago, neither Thomas Tuchel nor Álvaro Arbeloa have been able to unlock the midfielder’s best version again, which seems to shine only as a false 9 or attacking midfielder. Because of this, the Englishman faces a tough task: Returning to the field and silencing doubts with his performance.
Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Manchester United could have a major opportunity to secure the arrival of Sandro Tonali. Ahead of the 2026-27 season, Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Manuel Ugarte, which could facilitate the Italian’s move to the Red Devils.
Following Casemiro’s departure, Manchester United are actively pursuing the signing of a world-class midfielder. Due to his consistency and experience, Sandro Tonali has emerged as the Red Devils’ preferred option. While this initially appeared quite difficult, Newcastle United are reportedly interested in Manuel Ugarte, which could help bring both sides closer in negotiations.
According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle United are aware that it could be difficult to keep Sandro Tonali at the club if they fail to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Because of this, they already have a list of players to replace him, with Manuel Ugarte being one of them. Lacking prominence at the Red Devils, they could secure him for around £35 million (around $45 million), something quite accessible for the Magpies.
In the event that they do not secure a UEFA Champions League spot, Manchester United could push to sign him, proposing a multimillionaire transfer fee. With this, coach Michael Carrick could gain an ‘ideal’ replacement for Casemiro, who will leave the club at the end of the season. However, Newcastle United remain reluctant to sell Sandro Tonali, complicating the deal, reports TEAMtalk.
The Red Devils will not have an easy task securing Tonali, as he is attracting interest from world-class clubs such as Manchester City, Arsenal, and Real Madrid. Therefore, they would first need to secure their place in the UEFA Champions League, and then consolidate a competitive sporting project to convince him. Additionally, Manchester United could try to persuade the Magpies by including Ugarte in the deal.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United.
Report: Manchester United plan early move for Elliot Anderson
Despite Sandro Tonali emerging as the priority for Manchester United, negotiations with Newcastle United could take quite a long time. Given this, the Red Devils have reportedly decided to accelerate talks for Elliot Anderson, as they forcefully need a midfielder reinforcement. With this, they aim to secure his arrival before the 2026 World Cup amid interest from Manchester City.
According to former Everton CEO Keith Wyness, as reported by Football Insider, Nottingham Forest may be open to selling Anderson before the 2026 World Cup, seeking a transfer fee of over £100 million (around $130 million). By doing so, they aim to secure a high valuation, as an injury the upcoming tournament could put them at a disadvantage in negotiations. For this reason, the Red Devils could accelerate negotiations in the coming weeks.
In case Manchester United do not reach to secure an early agreement, they could be at risk of losing his arrival. As per The Sun, the Citizens are the favorite side to secure the English midfielder arrival. Not only he could have a primary role, but also he could have a winning-proved project. For that reason, the Red Devils may need to accelerate in the transfer talks.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United and Manuel Ugarte of Manchester United.
After LAFC's crushing 6-0 win over Orlando City, Son Heung-min has equaled an assist milestone only reached by Lionel Messi in the history of the MLS.
Son Heung-min was the driving force behind LAFC‘s dominant 6-0 victory over Orlando City, delivering a stunning performance on Saturday. With four assists on the night, the South Korean star has now matched an MLS milestone previously reached only by Lionel Messi.
The Boys in Gold were off and running in the seventh minute when Son drifted in from the right and delivered a powerful low cross that deflected off David Brekalo for an own goal. Son’s influence only grew from there, as Denis Bouanga completed a first-half hat trick with goals in the 20th, 23rd and 28th minutes, each one set up by the South Korean, before Sergi Palencia made it 5-0 in the 39th minute with yet another Son assist.
The performance made Son just the second player in MLS history to record four assists in a single half of a single game, a remarkable feat that has vaulted him to the top of the 2026 season’s assist leaderboard with six on the year.
The only other player to accomplish that feat was Lionel Messi, who in May 2024 delivered not four but five assists in Inter Miami’s 6-2 win over the New York Red Bulls. Unlike Son, Messi produced all five of his assists in the second half while also finding the net himself, giving him six direct goal involvements in a single MLS game, a record that still stands.
Because the opening goal was credited as an own goal, Son’s involvement on that play does not count as an official assist. Still, his direct impact on five of LAFC’s six goals in the first half is impossible to overlook. The victory moves LAFC to the top of the league table with five wins and one draw from six games, and with no goals conceded all season, the club is shaping up as a serious early contender for the Supporters’ Shield.
Son and Messi, the two most impactful players in MLS
After an initial half-season adjusting to a struggling Inter Miami side in 2023, Lionel Messi has completely transformed the club, rewriting the record books for goals and assists along the way. Son arrived at an already competitive LAFC, and his adaptation to the league has been so seamless that he is drawing direct comparisons to Messi’s impact.
According to data compiled by Squawka, since Son’s arrival in MLS, only Messi has been directly involved in more goals, counting both regular season and playoff matches. While the Inter Miami star sits at 38 total goal involvements, Son has wasted no time making his mark, racking up 12 goals and nine assists in 19 appearances for LAFC for a total of 21.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF and Son Heung-Min #7 of LAFC.
Despite his strong start at Real Madrid, Álvaro Arbeloa's future remains uncertain. Following the loss to RCD Mallorca, his future at Los Blancos will reportedly be decided in the Champions League quarterfinals against Bayern Munich.
Although Real Madrid seemed to be getting back on track under Álvaro Arbeloa, they have not managed to sustain a consistent winning run, raising serious doubts about their style of play. In addition, Los Blancos have stopped shining collectively, something that does not fully convince the front office. As a result, the Spaniard is reportedly playing for his future at the club in the Champions League quarterfinals against Bayern Munich.
According to Marco Ruiz via Diario AS, Arbeloa’s defeat to RCD Mallorca has left his future at Real Madrid hanging by a thread. Because of this, he must convince the front office by defeating Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals. If he fails to do so, the Spaniard could be sealing his fate, departing at the end of the season and making way for another coach.
Not only has he failed to put together a strong run of form, but he has also struggled to impose a dominant style of play. While Arbeloa has improved the atmosphere in the dressing room, he does not appear to be leading Los Blancos toward a winning streak, with the team sitting seven points behind Barcelona in LaLiga. A victory over Bayern Munich could boost his chances of staying.
Real Madrid do not need to be the favorite to beat Bayern Munich. Throughout their history, they’ve shown that they don’t need to be in top form to win in the Champions League, having defeated Manchester City, who were in top form. For this reason, Los Blancos could beat the German side, advance to the semifinals, and even set their sights on the coveted title. If that happens, Arbeloa would indeed have a chance to stay, though nothing has been confirmed yet.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, speaks with Vinicius Junior during the game against Albacete.
Arbeloa underperforms compared to Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have failed to find their longed-for stability, dismissing Xabi Alonso just a few months after his arrival. In this context, Árbeloa seemed to emerge as the clear solution, improving the locker room atmosphere. Despite this, he has not even managed to improve on his predecessor’s statistics, stringing together fewer victories while leaving the same doubts.
Xabi Alonso was dismissed in early January 2026, after accumulating five defeats, 20 wins, and three draws in 28 games. Far from improving the team’s performance with Árbeloa, he has maintained the same number of losses but with only 13 wins in 18 games, leaving a much higher defeat ratio. Because of this, Real Madrid fans continue to have serious doubts about whether Álvaro’s continuity is a good decision.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, they are now targeting structural changes within the Italian Soccer Federation. In response, Antonio Conte has reportedly emerged as the leading favorite to take over as head coach, tasked with leading the Azzurri’s rebuild.
Italy appear to be in one of the worst crises their national team has faced in recent years. After failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) seems set on a major restructuring, parting ways with Gennaro Gattuso. In response, they have reportedly decided to pursue a return for Antonio Conte—who is thriving at Napoli—as their new head coach, although his arrival would be tied to certain conditions.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Antonio Conte has emerged as the leading option to take over as Italy’s head coach, becoming the FIGC’s main candidate. Despite being under contract until 2027, the experienced manager would be a realistic option for the Azzurri, as he is highly interested in returning to the national team after his spell between 2014 and 2016.
Although Conte is currently managing Napoli, president Aurelio De Laurentiis would be open to his departure in the summer of 2026. However, this would be more likely if Giovanni Malagò is appointed as the new FIGC president, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports. With the federation’s presidential elections set for June 22, the decision on the new head coach could still take some time to materialize.
While Conte is generating excitement within the FIGC, fans are not entirely convinced by his potential appointment. The veteran would represent continuity in terms of playing style, which does not fully appeal to supporters. Moreover, he is not known for prioritizing young players, raising concerns about the long-term direction of the project, especially as everything pointed toward a more radical shift.
Antonio Conte coach of Napoli reacts during the Serie A match.
Maldini and Del Piero may reportedly take on roles within Italy
After failing to truly shine for the past 20 years, Italy now appear set on a restructuring within the FIGC, aiming to bring the national team up to the level of its rivals. While this process has already begun with the departures of Leonardo Bonucci, Gianluigi Buffon, and Gennaro Gattuso, it does not seem likely to stop there. Instead, Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Del Piero may reportedly take on prominent roles in the sporting project.
According to Nicolò Schira, via X, Paolo Maldini is considering getting involved with the FIGC, aiming to revive Italian soccer. Rather than taking on a role as head coach, the veteran would assume an operational position. Similarly, Alessandro Del Piero is gaining traction among political figures to take on a key role within the federation’s structure. With them, the Azzurri could begin a deep rebuild.
Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, looks on prior to the Supercoppa Italiana Semi-Final.
After failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Italy have been exposed to heavy criticism over their failed sporting project. In response, former USMNT coach Jürgen Klinsmann explained the reasons behind the Azzurri’s failure, pointing to Lamine Yamal and Jamal Musiala as clear examples.
Following their non-qualification to the 2026 World Cup, Italy have come under fire, as they have now failed to qualify for three consecutive tournaments. In light of this, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) is preparing for a “restructuring,” seeking to realign the project. Reflecting on this failure, former USMNT coach Jürgen Klinsmann explained the reason for the poor results, citing Lamine Yamal and Jamal Musiala.
“They are paying the price for a lack of leaders, players with solid technique, and trust in young talent. In Italy, Lamine Yamal and Musiala would probably be playing in Serie B to gain experience. And that simply cannot be… Tactical culture is also an obstacle. Many coaches, even today, operate with the aim of not losing rather than wanting to win at all costs. And these are the results,”Klinsmann said, via RAI.
Far from being a criticism of Lamine or Musiala, Jürgen Klinsmann points to the lack of development of young players, as few Italian coaches give them real prominence on the pitch. Because of this, they continue to lack ‘difference-making’ talent as in previous eras, losing a great deal of potential in players like Pietro Comuzzo, Giorgio Scalvini, and Michael Olabode Kayode that remain absent in the national team.
Klinsmann experienced the ‘prime’ of Italian soccer firsthand. After shining at VfB Stuttgart, the German was transferred to Inter Milan in 1989, where he went on to play 123 matches. There, he scored 40 goals and won the 1990–91 UEFA Cup. Because of this, Jürgen has lived through that golden era firsthand, pointing to the lack of a solid structure at the youth level as a main cause behind the national team’s performance.
2014 Head coach Jurgen Klinsmann of the United States.
Osasuna’s Alessio Lisci joins Klinsmann on Italy youth criticism
While Jürgen Klinsmann decided to deliver a harsh critique on Italy’s work, CD Osasuna coach Alessio Lisci has joined the strong criticism of the Azzurri. Pointing to the handling of young talent and the lack of structure for player development, the coach delivered a harsh assessment of the national team. Moreover, he highlighted the tactical system as a main cause behind this historic failure.
“…It’s evident that the Italian league has a high level, but among the top-5, it’s the one with the most foreigners. The youth academies also have lots of foreigners, especially the top ones…There are no reserve teams, which is another problem. Then the playing system that most teams use is 3-5-2, and this has led to wingers not existing and there being no players who can do one-on-one,” Lisci said, via Diario AS.
If they truly want to definitively solve their problems, the FIGC may begin to implement radical changes at the youth level across all its teams, seeking to prioritize domestic talent over the arrival of foreign players. Additionally, they could adopt a system similar to Germany’s, in which all youth teams maintain a consistent style of play, ensuring an easier adaptation when players join the national team.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona and Jamal Musiala of FC Bayern München.
Despite defeating Atlético Madrid, Barcelona received bad news after the match. Forced to leave the game in the 62nd minute, Marc Bernal has reportedly suffered an injury that rules him out of the Champions League quarterfinals.
Barcelona reached a successful comeback against Atlético Madrid with a heroic performance by Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski. Although this result solidifies them as LaLiga leaders, they suffered a setback, losing a key player just minutes after he came on. After leaving the pitch, Marc Bernal was diagnosed with a relatively minor injury, but one that reportedly rules him out of the Champions League quarterfinals.
According to Gerard Romero on Jijantes FC, Marc Bernal has been diagnosed with a first-degree syndesmosis injury. As a result, the Spaniard is expected to be sidelined for around ten days, keeping him out of the first leg against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals. While he could be available just in time for the second leg, Hansi Flick may choose not to risk him in order to avoid a relapse.
In Bernal’s absence, coach Hansi Flick could bet again for Frenkie de Jong, as he would already be able to play after his thigh injury. With this, the Spaniard absence may not be as harmful as expected. Moreover, Marc Casadó could also play a key role, entering in a bench role to rest the Dutchman, imposing defensive prowess and organizing the game.
Unlike Marc, Ronald Araujo has not suffered an injury in the latest game. While the Uruguayan had to leave the game at just 40 minutes, he has been diagnosed with a minor muscle strain in his left thigh. For that reason, he will be able to play in the Champions League quarterfinals, but Coach Flick may bet on Jules Kounde in the right back spot and Pau Cubarsi with Gerard Martin in the center-back spot, making him a bench role.
Barcelona stars Marc Bernal and Ronald Araujo celebrating a goal.
Raphinha’s absence could be keenly felt by Barcelona
While the Blaugranas managing to defeat Atlético Madrid in their LaLiga clash, they could face a different outcome in the Champions League quarterfinals. Unlike Hansi Flick’s side, the Colchoneros were able to rest their biggest stars, preparing for the upcoming tie. Because of this, Barcelona could strongly feel the absence of Raphinha, who has proven to be a difference-maker both collectively and offensively.
Throughout the season, Raphinha has been Barcelona’s offensive leader, standing out both as a scorer and in his overall impact. In his absence, the Blaugranas lose a player capable of unlocking matches that could become defensively complicated, especially as coach Diego Simeone will have Marc Pubill and Johnny Cardoso back for the entire series, and Pablo Barrios available for the second leg.
Marc Bernal of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
The Portugal FA has announced the final friendly opponent Cristiano Ronaldo and company will have to face prior to the beginning of the journey in the 2026 World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo has his sights set on the 2026 World Cup, widely expected to be his final major tournament with the Portugal national team. As part of their preparations for the competition, the Portuguese FA has now confirmed the last friendly fixture before the tournament kicks off in North America.
Nigeria join Chile as Portugal’s warm-up opponents during a training camp to be held in Portugal ahead of the tournament. While the match against Chile is set for June 6 at the Jamor National Stadium in Lisbon, no official venue has been confirmed for the Nigeria fixture, though reports indicate it is expected to take place at the Municipal Stadium of Leiria.
Notably, the side Portugal will face on Matchday 1 of the group stage was responsible for eliminating Nigeria from World Cup contention. DR Congo secured their spot at the tournament with a narrow 1-0 win over Jamaica in the FIFA international playoff during the March international break.
Bruno Fernandes of Portugal challenges Maduks Okoye of Nigeria.
Portugal and a familiar path to the World Cup
Following Portugal’s quarterfinal exit at the hands of Morocco, the 2022 World Cup was widely expected to be Cristiano Ronaldo’s last. Now 41 years old, the forward has defied expectations by remaining the top scorer under coach Roberto Martinez, and the road to this edition bears a striking resemblance to the one that led him to Qatar.
Ahead of the 2022 World Cup, Portugal also faced Nigeria in a November friendly, with the European side cruising to a 4-0 victory at Estadio Jose Alvalade. On that occasion, Ronaldo was left out of the squad due to a bout of gastritis and did not feature in the match.
The 2026 group stage also mirrors the 2022 edition in its composition. Portugal will face DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia, much like they did in Qatar when they were drawn against opponents from the African, Asian and South American confederations in Ghana, South Korea and Uruguay respectively.
Heading into the 2022 World Cup, Portugal were ranked ninth in the FIFA standings with 1,676.56 points. In the latest update ahead of 2026, the Seleção have climbed to fifth with 1,763.83 points, leapfrogging Brazil in the process. As reigning UEFA Nations League champions following their victory over Spain, Ronaldo heads into what may be his final World Cup backed by a more experienced and well-rounded squad than ever before.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates scoring against Hungary.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane are making their return from injury for Al Nassr to help the team chase the Saudi Pro League title.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane have both recovered from their respective injuries and rejoined Al Nassr for training. With the March international break behind them, the two stars will be looking to fuel their side’s push for the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title.
Al Nassr face Al Najma on Friday in Matchday 27 of the SPL at Al Awwal Park, with Ronaldo’s side heavy favorites for the fixture. The visitors sit rock bottom of the league with just one win, five draws and 20 defeats this campaign, currently in the midst of a five-game losing streak.
In his pre-match press conference, head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed the return of both stars: “We have a training session today, and Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane are expected to return. Mohamed Simakan’s injury is minor and he will train with us, while Kingsley Coman is feeling fatigued and we will assess him in today’s training.“
Both players have been included in the squad for Friday’s match. In Ronaldo’s case, it will be his first appearance since suffering a hamstring injury on February 28 against Al Fayha, a setback that kept him out of Al Nassr’s last three matches as well as Portugal’s two friendlies during the March window.
Jorge Jesus, Manager of Al-Nassr, interacts with Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr.
Mane’s situation follows a similar pattern. The winger picked up an ankle injury in early March that ruled him out of Al Nassr’s last two games and forced him to miss Senegal’s international fixtures, but both stars are now back in contention and expected to feature in the starting lineup.
Al Nassr return to SPL title chase
With the international break over, domestic leagues will resume and run through to their conclusion ahead of the 2026 World Cup. For Al Nassr, the final day of the SPL season falls on May 21 against Damac FC, with the league title firmly in their sights.
Al Nassr currently sit top of the SPL with 67 points from 26 games, holding a three-point cushion over closest rivals Al Hilal, with a potentially decisive six-pointer between the two sides scheduled for May 7. With Ronaldo back in the fold, both the star and the club will be looking to end a long wait for silverware and claim the league title for the first time since the 2018-19 season.
The Colombia FA released a statement revealing that James Rodriguez has been hospitalized due to a non-sports-related condition, with the national team and Minnesota United now monitoring the star's recovery ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
James Rodriguez has raised concern after the Colombia Football Federation issued a statement confirming the star had been hospitalized due to a “non-sports-related medical condition.” With both the national team and Minnesota United eager to have the midfielder fit for the 2026 World Cup, his recovery is being closely monitored by both parties.
“It has been confirmed, after establishing communication with a clinical center in the State of Minnesota, that the midfielder has been under professional observation due to a non-sports-related medical condition,” part of the statement released by the FCF read.
The federation revealed that on Monday, March 30, the day after the France game, Rodriguez was diagnosed with a severe case of dehydration that required hospitalization. The player remained under observation for 72 hours as a precautionary measure while undergoing clinical monitoring and recovery.
James Rodríguez of Colombia is challenged by Maxence Lacroix of France.
The news came as a shock given that Rodriguez had shown no visible symptoms while playing 63 minutes in each of Colombia‘s friendlies against Croatia and France. “It is important to clarify that this situation is not related to musculoskeletal injuries, nor is it linked to the performance of his football activities,” the statement added, leaving the origin of the player’s discomfort unclear.
Colombia and Minnesota United to monitor Rodriguez’s recovery
As confirmed in the statement, both the Colombian FA and Minnesota United will be jointly monitoring Rodriguez’s progress through his current condition. On a positive note, the latest medical report points to a favorable evolution and steady improvement, with no indication that his participation in the 2026 World Cup is at risk.
Minnesota are set to travel to face the LA Galaxy on Saturday, April 5, at Dignity Health Sports Park in the 2026 MLS season. While Rodriguez’s trajectory is encouraging, his return to training with the Loons remains unclear, making an appearance in that fixture unlikely.
Rodriguez’s fitness will remain a key concern for the Cafeteros, having captained the side in both March friendlies under head coach Nestor Lorenzo. Colombia open their World Cup group stage campaign against Uzbekistan on June 17, and with fewer than three months until the tournament begins, both club and country will continue keeping a close eye on their star player’s condition.
Legend Gianluigi Buffon joined the exodus in Italy FA after missing out the qualification to the 2026 World Cup, while Pep Guardiola has been reportedly linked to be the next head coach of the Azzurri.
Italy‘s latest failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has sent shockwaves through the federation, triggering the resignation of the president and now the departure of icon Gianluigi Buffon. With a new rebuilding process underway, Pep Guardiola has emerged as one of the names being considered to lead the Azzurri.
Bosnia & Herzegovina secured their World Cup ticket at Italy’s expense in the UEFA playoffs, and within 48 hours of the elimination, heads had already begun to roll. Gabriele Gravina stepped down as president of the Italian Football Federation, with Buffon, who had served as head of delegation since August 2023, following suit shortly after.
“Submitting my resignation one minute after the end of the match against Bosnia was an urgent act, one that came from deep within me. It was as spontaneous as the tears and that heartache that I know I share with all of you. I was asked to wait to allow everyone time for proper reflection. Now that President Gravina has chosen to take a step back, I feel free to do what I consider an act of responsibility,” Buffon wrote in a statement posted to his social media.
Becoming the first World Cup-winning nation to miss three consecutive tournaments has dealt a severe blow not only to the federation, but to Italian soccer as a whole. Minister of Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi weighed in on the crisis, calling for a change in direction and insisting that a rebuild of the national game “must begin with a renewal of the FIGC leadership.”
Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy shows his dejection after the game against Bosnia & Herzegovina..
Guardiola drawn into the conversation as potential Azzurri candidate
While a new federation president is set to be elected on June 22, no official word has been issued regarding the future of national team head coach Gennaro Gattuso. According to Fabrizio Romano, however, the former AC Milan midfielder is expected to depart his role, with one high-profile name standing out above the rest as a potential successor.
As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pep Guardiola has been put forward as a candidate for the Italy head coaching position. The Spanish manager has yet to make a decision on his future at Manchester City, with the club reportedly giving him the freedom to determine his own path despite his current contract running through June 2027.
The other two prominent names linked to the role are Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte. Both carry strong Italian credentials and prior experience with the Azzurri, though the federation would face significant challenges in either case, with Mancini currently at Qatari side Al-Sadd and Conte under contract at Napoli, where a compelling project is underway.
According to Romano, Manchester City are prepared to let Guardiola decide his own future, with Enzo Maresca remaining a credible internal option as a potential replacement. Guardiola has previously stated that the Citizens would be his last club job and that he would be open to managing a national team thereafter, and with Brazil now taken by Carlo Ancelotti, Italy could represent the ideal next chapter in his coaching career.
Pep Guardiola (L), Manager of Manchester City & Gianluigi Buffon (R), National Team Delegation Head of Italy.
Although Barcelona are already dealing with Raphinha’s injury, Hansi Flick could face yet another absence. Ahead of the match vs. Atlético Madrid, Frenkie de Jong’s availability remains uncertain, worrying the fans.
In the midst of a season marked by injuries, Barcelona have managed to stay among the best teams in Spain, remaining as LaLiga leaders and competing in the Champions League quarterfinals. However, they face a difficult challenge, as they take on Atlético Madrid. Ahead of this game, Hansi Flick could face an important setback, since Frenkie de Jong’s presence is completely uncertain due to his thigh injury.
According to reports from Carlos Monfort and Dídac Peyret in Diario Sport, Frenkie de Jong trained individually with Barcelona today, and his presence in Friday, April 3’s group session remains highly uncertain. As a result, the Dutchman could miss the match against Atlético Madrid, forcing coach Hansi Flick to adjust his starting lineup. Moreover, he is expected to make a comeback in the Champions League clash.
Alongside Frenkie, the Blaugranas will also be without Raphinha and Andreas Christensen, impacting the team’s overall performance. As a replacement for the Dutchman, Flick could turn to Marc Bernal, who has proven to be a difference-maker throughout the season. In the case of the Brazilian’s absence, Dani Olmo could take his place in the starting lineup, aiming to create space in Los Colchoneros’ rigid defense.
Report: Barcelona recover Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé
Despite the tough absences of Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong, Barcelona have received some good news. After suffering injuries in early March 2026, Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé have taken part in the most recent group training session. With this in mind, the Blaugranas expect to receive medical clearance before the match vs. Atlético Madrid, giving a solid boost to Flick.
Barcelona stars Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde.
With the return of both players, Hansi Flick gains much-needed consistency, as the team has been struggling significantly on a defensive level in their absence. However, they might not be able to play the full 90 minutes, instead having managed playing time to avoid relapses. Because of this, the presence of João Cancelo and Xavi Espart could still be vital in securing the much-needed victory.
Barcelona face unusual fixture timing vs Atlético Madrid
Barcelona and Atlético usually face each other around two or three times per season, but this time they will meet six times—an unusual occurrence. The Blaugrana are entering one of the most important months of their entire season. On April 4, they face off in LaLiga, aiming to secure their top spot. Then, they have two more matches on April 8 and 14 in the Champions League quarterfinals.
Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Following the departure of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool will be forced to look for a replacement in the summer transfer market. Because of this, the Reds are reportedly targeting Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig in a €100 million move.
After a season full of controversies, Mohamed Salah has decided to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, following a historic tenure at Anfield. Because of this, the Reds will be forced to look for a replacement in the summer. While he is still a young prospect, they have supposedly decided to pursue Yan Diomande. However, they would have to pay a €100 million transfer fee to RB Leipzig.
According to Florian Plettenberg, via X (formerly Twitter), Liverpool are closely monitoring the development of Yan Diomande, maintaining constant contact with his agents. Despite this, RB Leipzig remain determined to keep the 19-year-old star, aiming to offer him a new contract along with a performance-based salary increase. However, they would be open to his departure for offers exceeding €100 million.
Yan Diomande has managed to impress with his performances in the Bundesliga. In the current season, the Ivorian has scored 11 goals and provided 8 assists in 29 matches, making him the second top scorer and the top assist provider. His impact goes beyond the statistics, as his pace and dribbling are decisive, creating space for his teammates. Moreover, he is only 19 years old, so he could lead the Reds for more than a decade.
Despite his huge impact, Diomande is still far from being one of the best players in the world. If Liverpool sign him, they will be betting on his room for growth, which points to world-class potential. However, the Cameroonian does not surpass the impact that Salah has had, having scored 10 goals and provided 9 assists in 34 games in one of his ‘worst’ seasons with the team. Because of this, the Reds would need to be patient.
Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig gestures during the Bundesliga match.
Jeremie Frimpong could also be key at Liverpool’s right wing
Targeting a replacement for Salah, Liverpool appear determined to sign a promising right winger, also with an eye on long-term performance. In addition, Federico Chiesa is also expected to leave the team, leaving Harvey Elliott on the way out as well. Given this situation, Jeremie Frimpong could play a key role as a right winger, serving as direct competition for Yan Diomande.
Throughout the current season, coach Arne Slot has chosen on several occasions to deploy Frimpong as a right winger. Taking advantage of his pace and excellent dribbling, the Reds have had a strong alternative to open up space in the opposition’s defense. The Dutchman may not score many goals, but he does have great vision and passing ability, which adds different dimensions to the team’s play.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig.
Eduardo Camavinga’s future at Real Madrid appears increasingly uncertain, as Los Blancos are looking to reinforce the midfield. As a result, the Frenchman has caught PSG’s attention as they aim to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season.
Following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, Eduardo Camavinga has ceased to be an undisputed starter for Real Madrid. While he still sees a fair amount of playing time, it usually comes off the bench, as a regular part of the rotation. However, Los Blancos are looking to reinforce the midfield, leaving the Frenchman’s future in doubt. In response, PSG are reportedly interested in the midfielder.
According to Diario AS, Paris Saint-Germain are closely monitoring the future of Eduardo Camavinga, as he has lost prominence at Real Madrid. Rather than actively negotiating a transfer, the French side are simply keeping track of his situation, as neither the midfielder nor the Spanish club have made a decision regarding his continuity. However, the 23-year-old star is no longer an undisputed starter, opening the door to any possibility.
Coach Luis Enrique currently relies on world-class midfielders such as Vitinha, João Neves, Warren Zaïre-Emery, and Fabián Ruiz. Still, a potential move for Camavinga would represent a clear step up in quality, as he would bring valuable versatility—something key to Paris Saint-Germain’s project. Moreover, he would arrive as an established star, making it a high-profile signing.
PSG may not have a straightforward path to securing the signing of Eduardo Camavinga. According to CaughtOffSide, Liverpool have remained one of the Frenchman’s main suitors for several months. With his versatility, Eduardo could slot in alongside Alexis Mac Allister or Ryan Gravenberch, giving the Reds more options. On top of that, he could take on a more advanced role—something the team still lacks.
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid looks on.
Real Madrid midfield rebuild puts Camavinga role at risk
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled to find balance in midfield. Following the departures of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, they have been battling to find a player capable of organizing the team. In response, Los Blancos are aiming for a midfield rebuild, keeping several players on their radar. As a result, Eduardo Camavinga may not have as much space in the starting lineup.
According to Daniel L. Peinado, via Diario AS, Los Blancos are targeting Vitinha and Enzo Fernandez as the main candidates to reinforce the midfield. However, Kees-Smith is emerging as the top favorite, as he offers significant potential and could arrive for €50–60 million. Alongside them, Nico Paz is expected to return, with Real Madrid set to trigger the €9 million buy-back clause. With this, they aim to find competition for Thiago Pitarch.
With Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of him, Camavinga would become one of the last options in the rotation, as he does not fully offer something different from what those two provide. Because of this, the Frenchman could once again remain out of the starting lineup, although he would still see regular playing time as more of a rotational player than a key starter.
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Amid growing rumors about his possible departure, Manchester City have reportedly asked Pep Guardiola for clarity regarding his future. However, the Citizens are said to be targeting Enzo Maresca as a potential replacement for the Spaniard.
Pep Guardiola has established as a legendary figure at Manchester City, transforming the club’s history. Despite his impact, the Spaniard’s future at the team remains uncertain. Because of this, the Citizens have reportedly asked the head coach for clarity regarding his professional plans. Meanwhile, they are considering Enzo Maresca as a potential candidate to replace him.
According to Ben Jacobs, the Citizens have asked Pep Guardiola for clarity regarding his professional intentions, as they want to have a plan in place in case he decides to leave the club. In fact, they are expecting the Spaniard to give a final answer before the 2026 World Cup. In addition, many transfer targets are weighing the future of the head coach when deciding whether to join the team, impacting the club’s planning.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding Guardiola, Manchester City are already exploring options to cover for his spot. According to Nicolò Schira, they are looking at Enzo Maresca as a leading candidate to take the reins. Furthermore, he has already had stints with the club, managing the U-23 team and serving as assistant coach. With this, he would represent a continuation of the project, as he knows the Spaniard’s working methods.
Although Enzo Maresca was fired by Chelsea, he has already proven to be a difference-maker in England. Not only did he earn promotion with Leicester City, but he also led the Blues to two titles in his first season: the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. In addition, he implemented a dominant style of play. Because of this, the Italian emerges as a strong option, currently available as a free agent.
Enzo Maresca, Manager of Chelsea, embraces Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City.
Report: Guardiola could be tempted by Italy as head coach
After failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Italy became the first champion to fail to qualify for three consecutive tournaments. In light of this, Gennaro Gattuso, Gianluigi Buffon, and president Gabriele Gravina have decided to leave the national team. With this, Sports Minister, Andrea Abodi, revealed that a rebuild of the project is needed. For this reason, Pep Guardiola emerges as a clear candidate to lead the new era, in case he leaves Manchester City.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) are looking to tempt Pep Guardiola to take charge of Italy, with the aim of rebuilding the entire foundation of the project. While this would be difficult from a financial standpoint, they are already seeking sponsors to make his arrival a reality. With the experienced head coach, they would aim to build a promising long-term project for the 2030 World Cup.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City and Enzo Maresca.
Alessandro Bastoni has gone from being untouchable at Inter Milan to a potential transfer candidate. Following his inconsistent performances, the Nerazzurri are reportedly open to his departure, bringing the Italian closer to an €80 million move to FC Barcelona.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have targeted Alessandro Bastoni as one of their main objectives to strengthen the defensive line. While his arrival initially seemed difficult, the Italian is now reportedly close to the Blaugranas. Following inconsistent performances, Inter Milan have supposedly opened the door to negotiations for the defender, requesting around €80 million for his transfer.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Milan executives have given their approval for contacts to begin between Barcelona and Alessandro Bastoni. Despite this, the Blaugrana have not yet made an offer that fully convinces the Nerazzurri, as they are proposing €40–45 million plus add-ons, while Inter are asking for €70–80 million. However, negotiations are reportedly moving in a positive direction.
The Blaugranas would not have issues reaching an agreement on personal terms with Bastoni, as they have been in talks with his agents for several months. However, they need to offload some players in order to fit the deal financially, reports Florian Plettenberg. Despite this, coach Hansi Flick continues to view him as the top priority to strengthen the defensive line.
Barcelona might let some players leave to make room for Bastoni
Hansi Flick has managed to keep Barcelona as one of the most competitive teams. Despite this, they have not stood out defensively, making the arrival of Alessandro Bastoni a necessary move. However, the signing of the Italian could lead to the departure of some players, as they look to create room within the salary cap. In light of this, Ronald Araújo and Marc Casadó could be the most likely candidates.
Alessandro Bastoni of Inter.
The Blaugranas have not relied on Ronald Araújo or Marc Casadó as key figures, with several players ahead of them in the rotation. Despite of this, both stars have made it clear that they have no intention of leaving Barcelona. For this reason, they might find it quite difficult to convince them to leave, so they might opt to free up space by making other departures.
After failing to shine at AS Monaco and losing Flick’s backing, Ansu Fati is looking to leave the team permanently. Along with him, Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny could also leave the team, as Barcelona are reportedly looking to pursue a younger goalkeeper. Furthermore, Marcus Rashford’s future at the club is also unclear. With these departures, they could free up space in the salary cap and make room for Bastoni.
Alessandro Bastoni of Italy looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers.
After the friendlies in the March international break, Lionel Messi is now reportedly waiting to confirm his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina.
Lionel Messi is widely expected to compete in what would be his final World Cup in 2026, though the Inter Miami star has been notably reluctant to make it official with fewer than 80 days to go. Following the final round of friendlies before squad lists are due, reports suggest Messi is holding off on a formal confirmation of his participation with Argentina.
The March international window closed with Argentina posting two wins, including a 5-0 rout of Zambia in which Messi scored and assisted. Yet the team’s captain has not spoken to the media throughout the break, despite being visibly emotional in what could prove to have been his last appearance on home soil in an Argentina jersey. According to journalist Fernando Czycz of Doble Amarilla, Messi will be at the World Cup, but an official announcement will have to wait a little longer.
As Czycz reported, Messi’s primary focus is on arriving at the tournament in peak physical and competitive condition, particularly with Argentina entering as defending champions. With that in mind, the forward intends to assess his form and fitness over the coming months before going public with his decision.
Another factor in the timing involves Inter Miami, who are set to inaugurate their new home, Miami Freedom Park, now known as NU Stadium, in a landmark moment for the MLS franchise. With the club’s first match at the new venue against Austin FC coming up on Saturday, April 4, Messi has no intention of making any announcement that could overshadow that occasion.
A fan takes a selfie with Lionel Messi of Argentina.
Finally, the announcement itself is being carefully managed, with the Argentina FA reportedly preparing a full communication campaign to accompany the moment Messi officially confirms his place in the squad. The federation is said to be waiting for the right moment to make the most of the news when it comes.
Messi’s footwear for the 2026 World Cup reportedly revealed
Even as fans await an official word, the general expectation is that Messi will be suiting up for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, and even his boots for the tournament have reportedly been revealed.
According to Footy Headlines, Messi will be wearing a highly special edition of Adidas’ F50 boots. Featuring white, gold and sky blue details, the company has named the boot “El Último Tango,” or “The Last Tango,” a nod to what is widely anticipated to be Messi’s final appearance on soccer’s grandest stage.
“The last Tango,” Lionel Messi’s boots for the 2026 World Cup.
What did Scaloni say about Messi’s presence?
Following Messi’s lead, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has also stopped short of confirming the captain’s inclusion in the World Cup squad. Still, after the friendly against Zambia, he left no doubt about how much he wants Messi to be part of it.
“It will be a privilege if he decides that it will be his last because you never know; everyone wants to see him and enjoy him, and I will do everything possible to ensure the team can support him,” Scaloni said. “When the time comes, if he decides to come, we will sit down and chat because he wants the same thing we do. If he comes, he is always going to want to be there and to compete. Let’s hope to enjoy him, that he decides to come, and then we’ll see what happens,” he added.
FIFA has reached an agreement with the Canadian Premier League to make a pilot test of the Arsene Wenger’s offside rule.
Arsene Wenger‘s proposed offside rule has been one of the most debated potential changes in soccer over the past several years, ever since the former Arsenal manager joined FIFA. Now, the governing body has given the green light for the rule’s first pilot test in a major competition, set to take place in the Canadian Premier League.
Wenger himself, who currently serves as FIFA‘s Chief of Global Football Development, spoke to the significance of the announcement in the statement: “This is an important pilot. By testing this new interpretation in a professional competition, we can better understand its impact, including in terms of improving clarity and the flow of the game and promoting attacking play. We look forward to analysing the results of the trial phase.“
The CPL will also introduce Football Video Support, or FVS, better known as the “challenge” system familiar from other sports, which will allow coaches to hand a card to the fourth official and request a video review of a specific play. The system was already trialed at the most recent U-20 World Cup and will now be implemented at the professional level for the first time.
Arsene Wenger’s offside rule explained.
How does Wenger’s offside rule work?
Under the current offside rule, an attacking player must keep every part of their body that can legally play the ball behind the second-to-last defender, typically the goalkeeper and one outfield player, or behind the ball. In practice, a line is drawn from the defender closest to the goal line, and if any part of the attacker’s body capable of playing the ball crosses that line, they are ruled offside.
Wenger’s proposed rule would turn that logic on its head. Rather than penalizing any overlap, the new interpretation would only call a player offside if there is a clear and visible gap, referred to as “daylight,” between the attacker and the second-to-last defender. If the attacker is level with or only marginally ahead of that line, play would be allowed to continue.
Wenger’s rule could have been in place for the 2026 World Cup
The International Football Association Board, the body responsible for the laws of the game, spent much of the early part of 2026 debating potential rule changes, most notably during its 140th Annual General Meeting. Wenger’s offside proposal was among the topics on the table, and through cooperation between FIFA, IFAB and the CPL, it has now been cleared for a real-world trial.
While FIFA and IFAB have already confirmed several rule changes that will debut at the 2026 World Cup, the new offside interpretation did not make the cut. Without pilot test data to support its effectiveness, implementing such a fundamental change to the game risked significant backlash from players, coaches and fans alike.
Arsene Wenger, FIFA Chief of Global Football Development.
After sitting out the 1-0 defeat against Japan, head coach Thomas Tuchel compared England's reliance on Harry Kane with Argentina's dependence on Lionel Messi and Portugal's on Cristiano Ronaldo.
Harry Kane‘s absence proved costly for England in their final friendly of the March window, as the Three Lions were stunned by Japan in a 1-0 defeat. In the aftermath, head coach Thomas Tuchel drew a bold comparison, arguing that England’s dependence on their striker is no different from Argentina’s reliance on Lionel Messi or Portugal’s on Cristiano Ronaldo.
England had opened the March window with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Uruguay, a game that felt anything but a friendly given the intensity on display from both sides. But on Tuesday, with Kane sitting in the stands due to a minor injury, the Three Lions were beaten at Wembley Stadium, with Kaoru Mitoma scoring the only goal to hand Japan a 1-0 victory in a result that fell well short of home fans’ expectations.
In a post-game interview with ITV, Tuchel was asked whether the team had become too dependent on Kane, and the German responded with a pointed comparison. “Well, why would Argentina not rely on Messi or Portugal not rely on Cristiano Ronaldo? This is totally normal. Key figures left camp for us, and we saw that a bit. We lacked a punch.“
Pressed on the same topic during the post-match press conference, Tuchel doubled down on his striker’s importance. “In the absence of Harry Kane, we don’t have the same threat. Bayern Munich, in the absence of Harry Kane, don’t have the same threat. For top teams and top nations, it’s normal to rely on top players. We can win without Harry, but it’s easier to win with him, of course,” he said.
Harry Kane of England applauds the fans after the friendly against Japan.
Is England too dependent on Kane?
As Tuchel suggested, the quality of a player like Harry Kane can only be measured against that exclusive tier of the world’s best, particularly given his current form. The all-time leading scorer for England with 78 goals in 112 appearances, Kane has also been in devastating club form, tallying 48 goals and five assists in 40 games for Bayern Munich in the 2025-26 season while leading the Golden Boot race.
The numbers over the past two years further underline how central Kane has been to England’s success. In that stretch, the Bayern striker featured in 23 matches, during which the team posted 18 wins, two draws and three defeats, including the landmark victory in the Euro 2024 final, with Kane contributing 16 goals across those games.
In that same period, Kane was absent from the squad for just five matches, and the results paint a stark picture. England lost to Brazil, drew with Belgium, fell 2-1 to Greece in the UEFA Nations League, and now have added defeats to Uruguay and Japan to the tally, producing a record of three defeats, two draws and zero wins without their captain, troubling numbers that speak to a genuine dependence on the striker.
Are Argentina and Portugal equally reliant on Messi and Ronaldo?
No players have shaped their national teams quite like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, both of whom sit at the top of the all-time international scoring charts. Yet in recent years, both Argentina and Portugal have shown they can manage when their talisman is unavailable.
Lionel Messi of Argentina greets Thiago Almada during the friendly against Zambia.
Over the past two years, Argentina played eight games without Messi, winning six and losing just two, both in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers. In that same window, Portugal played six games without Ronaldo, picking up four wins and two draws, with both nations demonstrating enough depth to cover for the absence of their respective legends.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, Harry Kane of England, and Lionel Messi of Argentina.
Despite the USMNT suffered back-to-back defeats against Belgium and Portugal, star Christian Pulisic and head coach Mauricio Pochettino remain positive ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The USMNT wrapped up the highly anticipated March international break, the last before the 2026 World Cup, with back-to-back defeats against Belgium and Portugal. Despite those setbacks, head coach Mauricio Pochettino and team captain Christian Pulisic remain confident in the team’s chances heading into the tournament.
After a strong November window that featured wins over Paraguay and Uruguay, the March tests came against two top-ten European sides. Following a promising first half, the match against Belgium ended in a 5-2 defeat, and against Portugal, the Americans struggled to create clear-cut chances in a 2-0 loss.
Despite the results, Pulisic said he has been able to draw positives from both performances. “Obviously we’re disappointed with the results, but, to be honest, I’m taking a lot of positives from it. I think we’re a lot closer than it might’ve seemed. I still feel positive, and I still believe in this team. We put a lot of pressure on both games during the first half. We were able to create chances,” he told TNT Sports after the Portugal match.
Now operating in the No. 9 role for the USMNT, Pulisic acknowledged his recent scoring drought but insisted he is in good physical shape and confident in what lies ahead: “If I finish a couple of chances, which I know I’m going to, things are going to be a bit different. There were a couple of moments where we lacked concentration and gave up goals, but I feel we’re right in the game, and that good things are coming.“
Christian Pulisic's confidence in this USMNT squad remains strong as he spoke to @MelissaMOrtiz postgame 🗣️
Pochettino, meanwhile, described the March camp as “very positive,” pointing to the clear areas of improvement it revealed, particularly as he works through the process of trimming a 55-man pool down to a 26-man World Cup roster. As for the results themselves, the Argentine made clear that both games were ultimately decided by fine margins.
While also framing Pulisic’s frustration as a sign of commitment and desire, Pochettino remained firm in his belief that the USMNT is capable of competing with the world’s best. “I am more positive now than before because seeing the team compete, we are not far away. It’s only details that we need to improve.“
USA doesn’t have ‘top 100 players,’ says Pochettino
While Pochettino’s tenure has delivered mixed results in the CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup, recent months have seen growing optimism around the USMNT, fueled in part by the coach’s evident belief in the team’s World Cup potential. The March games served as something of a reality check, while also raising questions about how the side might fare against elite opposition in the tournament itself.
When asked whether he could iron out those “small details” in the team’s favor, Pochettino made a candid admission about where the USMNT currently stands. “We are USA, and we are competing against Belgium, Portugal. I think for sure Belgium and Portugal have, in the top 100 players, a few or some players playing in that top 100. I think we don’t. That is why it’s good to play against these types of teams.“
Far from using the assessment to undermine his players, Pochettino sees these experiences as essential fuel for their development, exposing them to elite competition so they can learn how to make the right decisions when it matters most. “We should play more games. Even though this is painful, it is the only way to improve, it is the only way to learn, it is the only way to see how the top players and teams compete,” he concluded.
Head coach of United States Mauricio Pochettino (L) and Christian Pulisic (R).
Chasing more scoring impact in the 2026–27 season, Barcelona have reportedly decided to enter a bidding war with Arsenal for a €70 million-rated striker: Christian Kofane, who is shining at Bayer Leverkusen.
Looking toward the 2026–27 season, Barcelona have targeted signing a center forward to bolster their scoring capabilities. Julián Álvarez is their top priority, but securing his transfer may prove challenging. Consequently, the Blaugrana are reportedly prepared to enter a bidding war with Arsenal for Christian Kofane, the standout player at Bayer Leverkusen, who is valued at €70 million.
According to Christian Kofane’s agent, Eric Depolo, as reported by Daily Arsenal, the Gunners remain quite interested in the 19-year-old striker: “Yes, there is contact between me and Arsenal. But their focus is currently on winning the league – everything will fall into place from there. He is a player worth 100 million euros. With Kofane, Arsenal will have a top striker for the next 10 years.”
While Arsenal are emerging as the clear favorite to sign Kofane, Barcelona are also reportedly interested in signing him, according to Adrián Sanchez via Más Que Pelotas. They would be preparing for the possibility that Julián Álvarez might not join them,after Atlético Madrid’s contract renewal offer. Despite this, they would have to pay a transfer fee of around €60-70 million, reports Florian Plettenberg.
Christian Kofane shines in his first season with Bayer Leverkusen
After shining at AS Nylon, Christian Kofane caught the attention of Albacete, from Spain’s second division, for their Juvenil A side. In just over two months, the Cameroonian impressed, earning a move to the first team where he scored eight goals in 20 matches. At the end of the season, Bayer Leverkusen decided to pay €5.25 million to secure his future, where he has managed to earn a role in the rotation under coach Kasper Hjulmand.
Christian Kofane of Bayer Leverkusen battles for the ball with Dayot Upamecano of Bayern Munich.
In his first season at Bayer Leverkusen, Kofane has managed to play 1,745 minutes, becoming one of the most used young players of the campaign. In addition, he has scored 7 goals and provided 8 assists in 39 matches. Not only do his stats stand out, but he also brings impressive associative quality, which has caught the attention of Arsenal and Barcelona in just his first season.
Bayer Leverkusen could multiply Kofane’s value by 13.3 times compared to his purchase price. While he is not yet an immediate-impact player, the Gunners and the Blaugrana would be targeting his signing with his growth potential in mind. However, they could have doubts about paying €60–70 million for his transfer, as he has not yet fully established himself at the elite level.
Christian Kofane of Bayer Leverkusen in action during the UEFA Champions League.
Despite being in great form with Santos, the chances of Neymar participating in the 2026 World Cup are noticeably decreasing. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly considering calling up Endrick or two other stars, complicating matters for the veteran.
After shining in his return to Santos, Neymar seemed to be edging closer to a return for the 2026 World Cup. Despite this, Brazil’s Carlo Ancelotti has decided not to count on him throughout his tenure with the national team. With only a few months left before the anticipated tournament, the veteran’s hopes appear to be fading, as Endrick and two other stars reportedly lead the race for a place in the squad.
According to Cahê Mota via GeGlobo, Carlo Ancelotti and his coaching staff view Neymar’s call-up to the 2026 World Cup as unlikely, dimming his hopes. Instead, they are reportedly considering Endrick, who impressed with his performance against Croatia and earned the benefit of the doubt. However, he faces competition from Lucas Paquetá and Igor Thiago for a place on Brazil’s roster.
Neymar reportedly disappointed Brazil’s coaching staff after missing the Santos vs. Mirassol match. Despite the veteran knew that Ancelotti would be attending the game, he stayed away due to workload management. As a result, he missed a great opportunity to make a case for his return to the 2026 World Cup roster. However, Cahê Mota reports that the coach remains open to calling him up, but it depends on his performance.
Unlike the 34-year-old, Endrick is in top physical condition, shining at Olympique Lyon. Because of this, he seems close to securing his place, as Ancelotti has called him ‘the future of the national team.’ In this context, Neymar Jr. would have to compete with Lucas Paquetá and Igor Thiago, who are already part of Brazil setup. Because of this, it looks quite difficult for him to make the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil national team stars Endrick, Igor Thiago and Lucas Paquetá.
Neymar Jr. keeps shining with Santos amid Ancelotti’s doubts
Following his knee surgery, Neymar has managed to shine with Santos FC, showing that he is in full condition. In the five matches he has played, he has scored three goals and provided two assists, standing out as the team’s most influential player. He is not only scoring goals, but also organizing the team, giving them ideas amid the chaos they are currently experiencing.
Despite his strong performances, coach Carlo Ancelotti remains full of doubts regarding his return. With the need to manage his workload to avoid further injury, the veteran raises questions about whether he will be ready to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Because of this, he has just over a month to convince the head coach of his return, as the final squad list will be announced on May 18 in Rio de Janeiro.
Neymar Junior of Santos leaves the field at the end of the Brasileirao 2026 match.
In the latest FIFA rankings update, Kylian Mbappe’s France has claimed the top, leaving Lamine Yamal’s Spain and Lionel Messi’s Argentina behind.
The FIFA rankings received their final update of the March international break ahead of the 2026 World Cup, bringing with it several significant changes. The most notable is that Kylian Mbappe‘s France have claimed the top spot, leapfrogging Lamine Yamal’s Spain and Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the process.
After the first week of matches, changes were already beginning to emerge, with France overtaking Argentina for second place as the most notable early shift. Then on April 1, FIFA released the full updated rankings, with Les Bleus claiming the top spot for the first time since September 2018, just months after winning the World Cup in Russia.
Key changes in the FIFA rankings
Fueled by wins over Brazil and Croatia, Mbappé’s side now sits atop the rankings with 1,877.32 points, with Spain and Argentina close behind at 1,876.40 and 1,874.81 respectively. Yamal’s draw against Egypt and Messi’s side facing lower-ranked opposition in Mauritania and Zambia proved costly, giving France the opening it needed to claim first place.
Kylian Mbappe of France greets Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Brazil.
England took a significant hit after their defeat to Japan but managed to hold on to fourth place, while Portugal, without Cristiano Ronaldo, overtook Brazil to move into fifth. Another notable development sees Mexico climb to 15th with 1,681.03 points, surpassing the United States, who dropped more than four points to sit 16th with 1,673.13.
This latest update also serves as a significant benchmark for national teams, as it will be the last ranking cycle with major movement before the 2026 World Cup kicks off in June. Between now and then, nations will be finalizing their squad lists and arranging pre-tournament friendlies, expected to take place just weeks before the competition gets underway.
FIFA ranking top 10 ahead of the 2026 World Cup
France — 1877.32 points.
Spain — 1876.40 points.
Argentina — 1874.81 points.
England — 1825.97 points.
Portugal — 1763.83 points.
Brazil — 1761.16 points.
Netherlands— 1757.87 points.
Morocco — 1755.87 points.
Belgium — 1734.71 points.
Germany — 1730.37 points.
Lamine Yamal of Spain, Kylian Mbappe of France, and Lionel Messi of Argentina.
Casemiro has established as one of Manchester United’s best players. However, the Brazilian has chosen to put the spotlight on Kobbie Mainoo. Following his outstanding performances, the veteran named the Englishman as the future of the Red Devils.
Manchester United have managed to surprise, establishing themselves in third place in the Premier League. In this, Casemiro has been key, providing balance to the team. However, the Brazilian has chosen to put the spotlight on Kobbie Mainoo, who has become undisputed under Michael Carrick. Moreover, the veteran identified the Englishman as the future of the Red Devils, leading the team into a new era.
In an interview with Manchester United, Casemiro had nothing but praise for Kobbie Mainoo’s performance, hailing his promising future: “Kobbie is the present and the future.I think that he is one of the best no.8s and can be for that for the next 12 years… He is a player I really like. He always wants the ball. It is true that soccer can’t change your mentality but Kobbie demonstrated that he hasn’t changed his focus once.”
Although it seemed he was destined to leave the Red Devils, Michael Carrick’s arrival transformed him into a cornerstone of the team. At just 20 years old, Kobbie has established as the Red Devils’ midfield playmaker, shining alongside Casemiro. Furthermore, Mainoo enhances the offensive side of the game, serving as a brilliant playmaker who creates spaces in opposing defenses.
Manchester United reportedly secure Kobbie Mainoo renewal
At the start of the 2025–26 season, Kobbie Mainoo was relegated to the bench under Ruben Amorim. Not fitting into his lineup, the Englishman was considered a third or fourth option in the rotation. Because of this, the 20-year-old star was pushing for a move, as he was seeking consistent playing time. Now, Michael Carrick has made him undroppable at Manchester United, leading to reports that his renewal has been secured.
Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United
According to Fabrizio Romano via X, the Red Devils are close to finalizing Kobbie Mainoo’s contract renewal. With a deal running until 2027 plus an optional additional year, the Englishman had attracted interest from several clubs. Because of this, Manchester United have offered him a new contract until 2031, fending off any transfer interest, while granting him a salary increase and a key role in the sporting project.
Report: Red Devils target Elliot Anderson as partner for Mainoo
Manchester United have successfully established a solid central midfield partnership with Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo. However, the Brazilian has decided to leave the team as a free agent. In light of this, the Red Devils are chasing midfield reinforcements ahead of the 2026–27 season. They have reportedly set their sights on Elliot Anderson, who has previously played alongside Mainoo in England.
According to Eduardo Burgos, via Diario AS, the Red Devils have considered signing Sandro Tonali or Bruno Guimarães. However, they believe that Elliot Anderson is the most straightforward option and the easiest to negotiate a transfer for. With this move, coach Michael Carrick would solidify a strong midfield, aiming to replicate his excellent performance from this season.
Manchester United stars Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo.
Despite his strong performances, João Cancelo’s future at Barcelona remain uncertain, as Al Hilal are not expected to let him leave as a free agent. In response, the Portuguese has decided to open the door to a move to Benfica, making it clear he would be willing to lower his salary.
Despite arriving at Barcelona with a secondary role, João Cancelo has managed to impress with his performances. While it took him time to regain his physical condition, the Portuguese has already become key for Hansi Flick. Despite this, the Blaugranas reportedly face significant difficulties in securing his arrival as a free agent, complicating his continuity. Given this situation, the 31-year-old star has opened the door to a move to Benfica.
The Blaugranas have decided to consider signing Cancelo on a permanent basis. However, they would only do so if he manages to leave Al Hilal as a free agent. Since he is under contract with the Saudi club until 2027, they are reportedly asking for around €15 million for his transfer, a figure Barcelona would flatly reject. For this reason, they have reportedly opened the door to Benfica.
In a recent interview with Canal 11, João Cancelo revealed key details about his future, hinting at a return to Benfica: “I’ve already earned more than I expected, but playing for Benfica is like basketball; it’s for the love of the game. I’d be prepared to lower my salary.”While the 31-year-old star remains open to an emotive comeback, the Portuguese side still needs to negotiate his signing with Al Hilal.
Having regained his physical form, Cancelo’s potential arrival at Benfica would be a definite boost for the team. Under José Mourinho, they have regained their competitiveness in the Champions League. The 31-year-old star could boost the team’s performance, as he would contribute on both flanks and shines offensively. Given this, the Blaugranas are already considering two alternatives to João Cancelo.
Barcelona full-back Joao Cancelo.
Report: Barcelona target two left-back reinforcements
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have repeatedly been without their starting left-back: Alejandro Balde. While the presence of João Cancelo helped ease the need, his continuity appears unlikely due to Al Hilal’s price tag. In response, they have decided to look for a reliable reinforcement capable of competing for a starting spot. For this reason, the Blaugrana reportedly already have two clear candidates.
According to Alfredo Martínez and Gianluigi Longari, Alejandro Grimaldo of Bayer Leverkusen and Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus have emerged as clear targets for Barcelona. While the Spaniard could leave for €15 million, the Italian could command a higher transfer fee as he is a key player for coach Luciano Spalletti. However, the Blaugrana are only holding talks for now, with no formal negotiations yet underway.
Joao Cancelo of FC Barcelona lines up prior to the UEFA Champions League.
Despite Nico Schlotterbeck appearing close to renewing his contract, negotiations with Borussia Dortmund have suffered a setback. As a result, Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly pursuing his signing ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, the future of Nico Schlotterbeck has been one of the most active topics. While the German appeared to be close to renewing his contract with Borussia Dortmund, the defender has stated that an agreement is not yet close. As a result, Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly battling for his signing, playing a key role in delaying his renewal.
“I have to flatly deny it (that his renewal with Dortmund is close to taking place). Unfortunately, we haven’t reached that point yet… I negotiated with Sebastian for a long time. Sebastian is no longer here. Now Ole will be my contact person, along with Lars… I have already talked to him, but we have not reached the point where the renewal is imminent,” Schlotterbeck, said after Germany vs. Ghana game.
According to Christian Falk, via CaughtOffside, Nico Schlotterbeck has paused his contract renewal with Borussia Dortmund not only due to the change of sporting director. Manchester United and Liverpool have reportedly played a key role in this setback, as both clubs have shown strong interest in him. As a result, the German side believe the negotiations have stalled as the player looks a move to a Premier League side.
Liverpool may have the upper hand in securing Schlotterbeck’s signing
In case Nico Schlotterbeck decides not to renew and leave Borussia Dortmund, he could target a key condition in his next move: A winning project. Not just qualifying for the UEFA Champions League, but also being able to compete for multiple titles over the coming years. Because of this, Liverpool could have an advantage over Manchester United, as they have won the Premier League and the Champions League in recent years.
Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund celebrates after winning in penalty shootout.
Coupled with this, Schlotterbeck could emerge as a natural replacement for Virgil van Dijk, whose contract expires in 2027 and who is expected to leave as a free agent. This would guarantee him a key role at Liverpool, which has been one of the most dominant teams in the Premier League in recent years. Furthermore, the Reds have proven to be a more consistent team than Manchester United.
Manchester United could lure Nico Schlotterbeck with ambitious project
Manchester United are no longer a dominant force in the Premier League. Following Sir Alex Ferguson’s golden era, they have failed to recapture their former glory, a fact that might give Nico Schlotterbeck pause. However, the arrival of Michael Carrick has transformed their fortunes, turning it into one of the most promising sides in England.
Nico Schlotterbeck could become a key pillar for the Red Devils in their new sporting project. With his arrival, they would gain much greater defensive consistency, as he would join Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martínez, and Leny Yoro. In addition, they could look to convince him by showing that their youth-driven project has immense potential, but securing a place in the UEFA Champions League could be key to achieving these ambitions.
Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund is seen during the Bundesliga match.
Marcus Rashford's future at Barcelona appeared to be uncertain, as his buyout clause had reportedly expired. In response, the Blaugranas reportedly denied this report, providing details of their timeline for deciding the Englishman's future.
Marcus Rashford managed to surprise with his impact at Barcelona. After a solid loan spell at Aston Villa, the Englishman earned a place in the rotation, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists. In light of this, the Blaugrana became open to his continuity, but the deadline to trigger the purchase option had reportedly expired. However, they have supposedly denied this information, making clear the timeline to decide his future.
According to Cadena SER, Barcelona may have lost the option to sign Marcus Rashford for €30 million from Manchester United. In the agreement signed at the start of the season, they had until March to trigger the purchase option, which did not happen. Because of this, they must now sit down to negotiate with the Red Devils in an attempt to reach a deal, something far from simple as a higher fee would be demanded.
In response to this information, the Blaugranas have supposedly stated that they still have more time to exercise the option. According to Mundo Deportivo, the agreement with Manchester United is to make a decision at the end of June. With this, the Blaugranas remain open to his continuity, but will continue evaluating his development toward the end of the season.
If the Blaugranas decide to trigger the purchase option for Rashford, they already have structured payment terms in place. According to Samuel Marsden via ESPN, they have reached an agreement with the Red Devils to make three payments of €10 million: July 2026, July 2027, and July 2028. With this structure, Barcelona could better accommodate the transfer, opening the door to his continuity.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona misses a chance during the Girona game.
Rashford still needs to convince Hansi Flick at Barcelona
Marcus Rashford has gone from being a revelation at Barcelona to experiencing a notable drop in performance. Following his knee injury, the Englishman has not managed to score a goal since January 31, 2026. In addition, he has not played a full 90 minutes since December 16, 2025, when he featured against CD Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey. However, he has a golden opportunity to convince Hansi Flick regarding his continuity.
The Blaugrana suffer a major setback, as Raphinha picked up an injury while playing with Brazil. As a result, Marcus Rashford emerges as the main candidate to replace him in the starting lineup. With important matches ahead, such as against Atlético Madrid in LaLiga and in the UEFA Champions League, the Englishman will need to deliver strong performances to convince Hansi Flick, who still has doubts due to his inconsistency.
Barcelona reportedly consider alternatives to Rashford
Looking ahead to the 2026-27 season, Barcelona appear determined to sign a left winger as a backup for Raphinha. Given the uncertainty surrounding Rashford, they are already considering two options: Jan Virgili and Abde Ezzalzouli, according to Diario Sport. Additionally, they retain 40% of any future sale of Virgili and 20% of any future sale of Abde, so they would be quite affordable.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's third goal.
After Iraq's 2-1 win over Bolivia, Kylian Mbappé's France and Erling Haaland's Norway will welcome Iraq to Group I at the 2026 World Cup.
Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland will be seeing plenty of each other when France and Norway square off in one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2026 World Cup group stage. Group I is now complete, with Iraq earning the final spot after coming through the international playoff round.
On Tuesday, Iraq and Bolivia clashed at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, for a place at the World Cup, and after a 2-1 victory, the Asian nation will be competing on soccer’s biggest stage for only the second time in its history. The winner of that playoff series had already been slotted into Group I alongside France, Norway and Senegal.
With the group now finalized, Haaland, who guided Norway to its first World Cup since 1998, will open his tournament against Iraq on Matchday 1 on June 16th, while France will face the Middle Eastern nation on Matchday 2 on June 22nd. Then, on the 26th, Mbappe and Haaland will finally share a pitch at the World Cup on Matchday 3, in what figures to be a first-place showdown.
Erling Haaland holds a narrow edge over Mbappe
Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe have been two of the most prolific strikers of their generation, with each claiming one of the last three European Golden Boots. But when it comes to head-to-head meetings on the pitch, the Norwegian holds a slight edge over the Frenchman.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid speaks with Erling Haaland of Manchester City.
In matches where both players saw time, Haaland and Mbappé have crossed paths three times, with the Norwegian coming out on top twice against just one win for the French star. That lone victory for Mbappe came in the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League Round of 16, when PSG edged Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the first leg of their opening meeting.
Haaland answered back with a 2-0 win in the second leg of that same tie, and then in the 2024-25 UCL playoff round, Manchester City defeated Real Madrid 3-2 in the first leg. Haaland sat out the second leg, and across their three most recent encounters in the 2025-26 Champions League, spanning the league phase and the Round of 16, the two have yet to share the pitch at the same time.
Head-to-head between France and Norway
On the international stage, the last meeting between France and Norway came back in 2014, a time when neither Mbappe, who earned his first cap in 2017, nor Haaland, who debuted in 2019, had yet pulled on their national team jerseys. That means their upcoming clash at the 2026 World Cup will mark the first time they face off while representing their respective countries.
Looking at the all-time series between the two nations, France holds the upper hand with seven wins, while Norway has claimed victory on four occasions, with four additional matches ending in a draw. The most recent chapter came in that May 2014 friendly ahead of the Brazil World Cup, where Les Bleus ran out convincing 4-0 winners over the Scandinavians.
Kylian Mbappe of France and Erling Haaland of Norway.
With Aymen Hussein scoring the 2-1 in the game against Bolivia, Iraq has secured the final spot for the 2026 World Cup.
Iraq and Bolivia clashed on Tuesday, March 31, at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, in the FIFA international playoff. With Aymen Hussein scoring the decisive goal, the Asian side claimed the last ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
The game got off to a fast start for Iraq, who broke the deadlock in the 10th minute through a well-delivered corner from Amir Al-Ammari that Ali Al-Hamadi headed home inside the box. Bolivia leveled in the 38th minute, just as they had against Suriname, with Moises Paniagua controlling a shot from Ramiro Vaca and finishing clinically inside the box.
Iraq struck again early in the second half, with substitute Marko Farji making an instant impact just one minute after coming on, delivering the cross that allowed Hussein to restore the lead in the 53rd minute. From that point, La Verde resorted to long-range efforts and constant crosses, but a well-organized Iraqi low block proved too difficult to break down.
With their place secured, Iraq have been slotted into Group I at the 2026 World Cup alongside France, Norway and Senegal. The Lions of Mesopotamia will open their campaign against Erling Haaland’s Norway, before facing Kylian Mbappe’s Les Bleus on Matchday 2 and rounding out the group stage against Sadio Mané’s Lions of Teranga, in what will be only their second World Cup appearance since Mexico 1986.
While Italy are one of the most storied national teams in World Cup history, they have set an unwanted World Cup record. After losing their match against Bosnia Herzegovina, they become the first champion team to miss out on three consecutive tournaments in a row.
Italy have established as one of the most important national teams in soccer history. Not only have they produced legendary players such as Paolo Maldini, but they have also won four FIFA World Cuptitles. However, they are not at their best moment, as their defeat to Bosnia Herzegovina have made them the first World Cup-winning nation to miss three consecutive tournaments in a row.
After being overtaken by Norway in the UEFA World Cup qualifiers, they were relegated to the playoffs, hoping to secure their spot in the tournament. Even though they defeated Northern Ireland, they were surpassed by Bosnia Herzegovina, losing any chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. As a result, they have set a dismal record that reflects their current reality.
Italy become the first FIFA World Cup-winning national team to miss three consecutive tournaments: 2018, 2022, and 2026. This marks twelve years since their last qualification, when they were eliminated in the group stage. Furthermore, they have not reached the final stages tournament since the 2006 edition, when they won the title, showcasing their growing problems.
The Azzurri were eliminated by Sweden in the playoffs in the 2018 edition, despite being clear favorites. Later, Roberto Mancini also failed to get Italy back on track for the 2022 tournament, as they were eliminated by North Macedonia again in the playoffs. Now, the surprise firing of Luciano Spalletti and the short time Gattuso had at the helm led to their third consecutive elimination.
Players of Italy at the end of the UEFA EURO 2024 European qualifier match.
Not only Italy: Three other World Cup-winning join the list
Italy are the first World Cup-winning national team to miss three consecutive tournaments, they are not the only ones on the list. England was the first national team to make the list by failing to qualify for the 1974 and 1978 tournaments. Then, Uruguay joined the list after missing the 1978 and 1982 tournaments, and did so again in 1994 and 1998.
While France are also champions and missed the 1970 and 1974 editions, and then again in 1990 and 1994, they were not yet World Cup-winners at that time, as their first title came in the 1998 edition. Because of this, they join Brazil, Germany, Argentina, and Spain as the only national teams that have not failed to qualify after winning the tournament.
Gennaro Gattuso didn’t have time to build a strong project in Italy
After leading the team to the UEFA Euro 2021 victory, Roberto Mancini appeared to be building a promising project. Despite this, he was fired in August 2023, as the generational overhaul did not go as expected. While Luciano Spalletti seemed like the ideal choice given his impact in Serie A, he was fired in June 2025, leaving Gennaro Gattuso to lead the project with only a few months to consolidate it.
With no players in top form on offense, Gattuso has struggled to make a real impact, with only Retegui and Pio Esposito standing out. On top of that, the midfield hasn’t contributed much in terms of scoring either. Furthermore, he took over the team with only three months to prepare, so he never had a real chance to adjust the system or make drastic changes.
In addition to the challenges of the project, Gattuso took over as Italy’s coach without much experience. Although he has managed AC Milan, Valencia, Napoli, and more teams he has won only one Coppa Italia. In comparison to Mancini and Spalletti, who have built highly successful teams; consequently, their dismissals may have been Italy’s first mistakes.
Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy, with his players after a game.
Although Italy managed to dominate in the first half, the red card shown to Alessandro Bastoni changed the entire game. As a result, they were defeated by Bosnia and Herzegovina in a penalty shootout, eliminating them for the third consecutive time.
Italy came in as clear favorites to defeat Bosnia and Herzegovina, as they boast a roster full of world-class stars. While they managed to dominate in the first half, the red card shown to Alessandro Bastoni disrupted the entire team. As a result, the Azzurri were dominated for more than 45 minutes, taking the match to a penalty shootout. There, they were defeated, marking their third consecutive elimination from a FIFA World Cup.
Bosnia and Herzegovina went from being dominated to controlling the match. In the first half, they were constantly pushed back into their own area by Italy. While they remained active on the counterattacks, they were unable to impose themselves against their opponent. However, the sending off of Alessandro Bastoni gave them a major advantage, as they managed to dominate the Azzurri throughout the entire second half and extra time.
Coach Gennaro Gattuso decided to substitute Mateo Retegui, bringing on Federico Gatti in order to cover the space left by Alessandro. With this, the Azzurri adopted a fully defensive mindset, allowing Esmir Bajraktarević and Kerim Alajbegović of Bosnia and Herzegovina to shine. After conceding a goal from Haris Tabaković, Italy seemed to lose their attacking identity, being constantly disrupted and pinned back inside their own box.
Unlike in the previous match, Sandro Tonali was completely shut down throughout the game. Not only did he fail to organize the play, but he also failed to make an impact on offense. Running out of ideas, Italy failed to overcome the tie, going to a penalty shootout where they were eliminated after misses by Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante. With this, they become the only FIFA World Cup-winning national team to miss three consecutive tournaments.
Moise Kean and Haris Tabaković led the game’s scoring effort
Despite being dominated in the second half, Italy were the more dominant side in the first half. Led by the high pressing of Mateo Retegui, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s goalkeeper, Nikola Vasilj, misplaced the ball, which fell to Nicolò Barella. After receiving it, he played a pass to Moise Kean, who finished first-time to score the opening goal.
Bosnia and Herzegovina went on to dominate the Italy after the sending-off of Alessandro Bastoni. Because of this, they had more space for Amar Dedić to shine. After a great cross from him, Edin Džeko managed to head it, but Gianluigi Donnarumma made a miraculous save. However, Haris Tabaković took advantage of the rebound to finish it, leveling the match.
After two 15-minute extra-time periods, Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina were unable to break the deadlock on the scoreboard. As a result, they had to decide the winner via a penalty shootout. There, the Azzurri looked quite weak, as Esposito and Cristante missed their attempts, allowing Esmir Bajraktarević to seal the match with a great strike, sending his national team back to a World Cup after 12 years.
Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina face off in a closely contested match in the UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. While the Azzurri are expected to play a fairly direct style, the Dragons will look to cause damage with their aerial game. Here are the predicted lineups for both sides.
Italy face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers for 2026, looking to secure direct qualification after missing two consecutive editions. With an impressive roster, the Azzurri come in as clear favorites to take the win. However, the Dragons will look to enhance their attacking play, targeting their opponent’s defensive weaknesses.
Bosnia and Herzegovina are not a historically dominant national team, but they have grown significantly in recent years in UEFA competitions. Led by Edin Džeko, they have improved their performances, relying on aerial play as one of their main strengths. In addition, coach Sergej Barbarez has managed to make their defensive structure shine, meaning the Azzurri could face a tough challenge.
Despite not being in their best form, Italy still arrive as clear favorites to secure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Coach Gennaro Gattuso has implemented a strong attacking setup, led by Federico Dimarco and Matteo Politano on the wings. Additionally, Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Barella support the attack, acting as ideal partners for the forwards. With this, the Azzurri are aiming for a strong return to the tournament.
Bosnia and Herzegovina confirmed lineup vs Italy
Unlike Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina do come into the match with one absence: Amar Dedić. Because of this, coach Sergej Barbarez could turn to Armin Gigović. However, he may keep a fairly similar lineup, with Tarik Muharemović and Nikola Katić leading the defensive line. Looking to make the difference in attack, Edin Džeko will serve as the undisputed leader of the national team aiming for a historic victory.
Sandro Tonali of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers.
Bosnia and Herzegovina will play as follows: Vasilj, Memić, Muharemović, Katić, Kolašinac, Dedić, Šunjić, Bašić, Demirović, Bajraktarević, Džeko.
Italy confirmed lineup vs Bosnia and Herzegovina
After recovering Sandro Tonali, Riccardo Calafiori, and Moise Kean, Italy arrive with their full roster available to face Bosnia and Herzegovina. With this, coach Gennaro Gattuso has kept Manuel Locatelli as a key figure to balance the team’s midfield.
With this, Italy’s confirmed lineup is as follows: Donnarumma: Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori: Politano, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco: Retegui, Kean
Edin Dzeko of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sandro Tonali of Italy.
After defeating Northern Ireland, Italy secured a place in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers playoffs finals. As a result, the Azzurri now face Bosnia and Herzegovina, aiming to book their spot in the anticipated tournament. Here, we will analyze the three possible outcomes of today’s match.
While they are not in their best form, Italy managed to defeat Northern Ireland, thanks to a brilliant performance by Sandro Tonali. With this win, they secured their spot in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers playoffs, but they face a tough challenge ahead. The Azzurri will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina, aiming to return to the 2026 World Cup after missing the last two tournaments, with a win, draw, or loss changing the whole picture.
Bosnia and Herzegovina arrive as a well-established and solid UEFA side, going five matches unbeaten. Not only have they impressed defensively, but they also boast an effective attack, relying on quick counterattacks and strong aerial play, with Edin Džeko standing out. With this, they will look to defeat Italy for the first time in 30 years, securing their place at the 2026 World Cup.
Italy have managed to enhance their attacking qualities, with the performances of Federico Dimarco and Matteo Politano being key to this. In addition, coach Gennaro Gattuso is opting for a different midfield setup, as only Manuel Locatelli remains a fixed presence. Because of this, Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Barella become ideal partners for Moise Kean and Pio Esposito in attack, creating numerical superiority.
Despite their attacking quality, the Azzuri face a difficult challenge: Their defense. Coach Gennaro Gattuso has world-class players such as Alessandro Bastoni, Riccardo Calafiori, and Gianluca Mancini. However, they do not excel in aerial play, something that exposes them against Edin Džeko. In addition, their high pressing leaves space in behind, meaning counterattacks from Bosnia and Herzegovina could be key.
Sandro Tonali (C) of Italy celebrates with his team-mates Mateo Retegui (L) and Moise Kean (R).
How could Italy’s win affect the UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
In case Italy secure a victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina, they will earn a direct spot in the 2026 World Cup. With this, the Azzurri have ended their two-tournament drought of failing to qualify for the highly anticipated tournament. However, coach Gennaro Gattuso faces a tough challenge: To restore the team to prominence, as they have failed to reach the final stages since their 2006 victory—a stage they have historically dominated.
How could Italy’s draw affect the UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
Unlike the group stage, Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina meet in a single-leg knockout match. Therefore, a draw in today’s game would lead to two 15-minute extra-time periods, aiming to determine a clear winner. In case it remains undecided, they would settle it through a penalty shootout, with the winner securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
How could Italy’s defeat affect the UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
If Italy are defeated in today’s game, the Azzurri would become the first FIFA World Cup-winning national team in being absent in three consecutives editions. Moreover, Bosnia and Herzegovina would secure a direct spot in the tournament, attending for their second time as 2014 edition was their last one. Nonetheless, coach Sergej Barbarez holds a key task: Advancing past the group stage for the first time in its history.
Sandro Tonali of Italy in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers.
Jamaica and Congo DR face off in a crucial match, as they will decide who secures a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the outcome of the match—whether a draw, a win, or a loss—will completely change the picture. Here, we will analyze these possibilities.
Despite Jamaica struggling to shine in recent years, they managed to secure a spot in the playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification. After defeating New Caledonia, the Reggae Boyz now face Congo DR, aiming to book their place in the tournament. Far from being a simple matchup, both teams have shown defensive solidity and could keep the game very evenly contested.
Congo Democratic Republic come off a solid performance in the Africa Cup of Nations, reaching the Round of 16, where they were defeated by Algeria. Relying on a solid defense and quick counterattacks, they aim to defeat Jamaica and secure their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in 52 years. For this, the scoring impact of Yoane Wissa could be key.
Unlike Les Léopards, Jamaica come off a disappointing performance in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, being eliminated in the group stage. Despite this, the Reggae Boyz have proven to be a very solid team collectively, with players like Leon Bailey and Demarai Gray capable of making the difference. Moreover, coach Rudolph Speid has imposed a solid defense, complicating Congo Democratic Republic chances.
How could Jamaica’s win affect the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
If Jamaica secure a victory vs Congo DR, they will secure a direct spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as it is a single-leg knockout match. With this, the Reggae Boyz would return to the tournament after 28 years, marking only their second appearance in history, where their only victory came against Japan, while they were defeated by Croatia and Argentina.
Bailey Cadamarteri of Jamaica celebrates the team’s first goal with Ephron Mason-Clark.
How could Jamaica’s draw affect the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
Unlike the group stage, Jamaica and Congo Democratic Republic meet in a single-leg knockout match. Therefore, a draw in today’s game would lead to two 15-minute extra-time periods, aiming to determine a clear winner. In case it remains undecided, they would settle it through a penalty shootout.The winner will secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
How could Jamaica’s defeat affect the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
If Jamaica are defeated in today’s match, Congo DR will secure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup directly. With this, the Reggae Boyz would go another four years without returning to the tournament, while Les Léopards would make their long-awaited comeback after 52 years. In their last appearance, they even competed under the name Zaire. In this edition, they would aim to progress beyond the group stage, something they have never achieved in their history.
Leon Bailey of Jamaica looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying Playoff tournament.
In the friendly against Mexico, Bruno Fernandes made his debut as Portugal captain, prompting questions on who else got the chance to use the captain armband in Cristiano Ronaldo's era in the national team.
Bruno Fernandes has captained the Portugal national team for the first time in his international career, wearing the armband in the recent friendly against Mexico. With that milestone now checked off, the Manchester United midfielder joins a select group of players to have led the Selecao during the Cristiano Ronaldo era.
The muscular injury Ronaldo suffered on February 28 forced him to miss head coach Roberto Martinez’s call-up for the March international window friendlies. With the captain unavailable, the Spanish coach had to look elsewhere in the squad for someone to wear the armband.
Other players who have deputized as captain in Ronaldo’s absence, including Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias, were also absent for the March window, and with Joao Cancelo coming off the bench, the choice fell naturally to one of the starters. Against Mexico, in his 86th appearance for Portugal, Bruno Fernandes wore the armband for the 81 minutes he was on the pitch.
Ronaldo and a career defined by the Portugal captaincy
Bruno Fernandes currently ranks 13th on Portugal‘s all-time appearances list with 86 caps, having made his debut in November 2017, and sits just eight games outside the top 10. Ronaldo, however, has left those numbers far behind, having made his debut in August 2003, more than 14 years before his current teammate first pulled on the shirt.
Bruno Fernandes of Portugal.
Ronaldo’s first stint as captain came in February 2007 in a friendly against Brazil at just 22 years old, an honor bestowed in tribute to Portuguese FA president Carlos Silva, who had passed away two days before the match. It was not until late 2008, however, that he cemented himself as the undisputed first choice to lead the team. To this day, Ronaldo has worn the armband in 159 international matches, more than any other player in the history of the game.
The select few to captain Portugal in Ronaldo’s era
For the better part of two decades since 2008, Ronaldo has had an almost exclusive grip on the Portugal captaincy, leaving precious little room for anyone else to step in. Still, a handful of names have had the privilege during his absences through suspension, injury or tactical decisions.
In the early years of Ronaldo’s captaincy, the armband was occasionally shared with Simao Sabrosa before Ronaldo assumed sole leadership heading into the 2010 World Cup. During that transitional period, experienced defenders Ricardo Carvalho and Bruno Alves also had their turns at the helm.
Cristiano Ronaldo wears Portugal’s captain armband for the first time.
Two of Ronaldo’s closest teammates also had their moments in the spotlight. Nani famously wore the armband during the Euro 2016 final after Ronaldo was forced off injured, while center back Pepe has captained Portugal more times than any other player during Ronaldo’s absences, making him the most prominent deputy of the era.
Since Roberto Martinez took charge, the pool of stand-in captains has widened considerably, in part due to Pepe’s retirement from international soccer in 2024. With Ronaldo unavailable at various points, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo and now Bruno Fernandes have all led the side under the Spanish manager, reflecting a squad with greater depth of leadership, even if the identity of the first-choice captain remains beyond question.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and Bruno Fernandes (R) of Portugal.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez stated that he doesn't even know when Cristiano Ronaldo will retire from international soccer with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
Cristiano Ronaldo recently turned 41, and while the soccer world’s attention is firmly fixed on the 2026 World Cup, the future of one of the sport’s greatest legends remains an open question. With fewer than three months to go before the tournament in North America, head coach Roberto Martinez has acknowledged that Ronaldo’s future with the Portugal national team is still uncertain, even beyond the World Cup.
As far back as late 2025, Ronaldo had acknowledged that the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico would be his last World Cup. “Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old,” the striker told CNN anchor Becky Anderson in November, while also indicating that his overall retirement timeline extends “probably one, two years” beyond that.
Even so, that does not necessarily mean the World Cup will mark Ronaldo’s final appearance in a Portugal shirt. Asked on Monday by Ben Jacobs about when the star might call it quits internationally, Martinez admitted he has stopped trying to predict it: “It is difficult for me to say. I have learned very quickly not to predict the future with Cristiano. He has got this elite brain about being the best he can be today. If you ask him, he’ll tell you the same. He doesn’t make plans.“
At the same press conference ahead of the clash against the United States, Martinez also spoke to Ronaldo’s continued importance in the squad. “Cristiano is our captain. He has been very influential and important. We won the Nations League with him. His role is important in our team, making the last movements in the box, his goalscoring threat and the way he can finish off moves,” he added.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Roberto Martinez, Manager of Portugal.
Although Ronaldo is sitting out the March friendlies with a hamstring injury, Martinez has already made his intentions clear, stating that “for the World Cup, the center-forward position belongs to Cristiano and Goncalo Ramos.” With one additional striker spot still to be filled, it is clear that the former Real Madrid man will be first choice up front when fit.
Could Ronaldo make it to the 26-27 Nations League?
While Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last, he has not said it will be his final appearance in a Portugal shirt. In fact, the “one or two years” of playing career he has suggested he has left could align comfortably with a run at the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, where Portugal would enter as defending champions.
Last February, UEFA conducted the draw for the fifth edition of the Nations League and released the full fixture schedule. Portugal, placed in League A Group 4, will face Denmark, Norway and Wales, with the group stage to be played across the September, October and November international windows.
With the quarterfinals scheduled for March 2027 and the Nations League Finals set for June 9-13, 2027, the timeline lines up with the final weeks of Ronaldo’s current Al Nassr contract, which runs through June 30. Should Portugal go all the way, Ronaldo could cap his international career by helping the Selecao become the first nation to win back-to-back Nations League titles.
Neymar has suffered yet another blow in his chances to be in the 2026 World Cup as head coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that Brazil's final squad is "quite defined."
Neymar‘s absence from the Brazil squad for the March international window was widely interpreted as one of his last opportunities to force his way back into the national team picture. Now, his dream of featuring at the 2026 World Cup has taken another hit, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti admitting that his squad for the tournament in North America is “quite defined.”
A long-term injury and persistent fitness concerns have kept Neymar out of the Brazil national team since October 2023, and at 34 years old, the Santos forward has made no secret of his desire to feature at the upcoming World Cup. Since Ancelotti took charge in June 2025, the two have spoken, but the Italian manager has consistently pointed to fitness as the reason behind Neymar’s omission from each of his four call-up cycles.
At Monday’s press conference, Ancelotti gave a clear-eyed assessment of where his squad stands heading into the tournament: “I think this period spent here, this past year, was positive; we qualified early. Afterward, in the matches, we conducted many evaluations of players I didn’t know. Today we have a very clear idea; I have the lineup pretty much set for the first (match) and the final list is also quite defined.“
The Italian manager also noted that the friendlies against France and Croatia were intended to test his preferred starting XI, but a series of key injuries, particularly in the backfield, forced him to experiment more than he had planned. With Estevao sidelined through injury, Raphinha picking up a knock during the France match and not being replaced in the squad, and Neymar still not called up, the Santos star faces a steep climb to change Ancelotti’s mind before the roster deadline.
Kylian Mbappe of France greets Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Brazil.
Following the 2-1 defeat to France, Ancelotti nonetheless expressed confidence that Brazil remains on course to compete for a sixth World Cup title, known as the Hexa. “We are on the right path—one very good game, another slightly less so… We obviously have to improve, but we have a very clear idea of what we want to do in the World Cup. We are at a good point on this journey; in this process, we will be prepared for the biggest matches of the World Cup.“
While FIFA’s official deadline for final rosters is May 30, Brazil national team is expected to announce Brazil’s 26-man squad on May 18. With several teammates and legends having publicly called for Neymar’s inclusion, the Santos forward has fewer than two months to change the coach’s mind.
Danilo, the only name confirmed by Ancelotti
With Brazil set to face Croatia on Tuesday, March 31, Ancelotti will ultimately finalize his World Cup squad having managed just eight matches in charge, with a record of three wins, three defeats and one draw. Of all the players in contention, the Italian manager has publicly confirmed just one name for the final roster: Danilo.
Asked about the veteran defender’s importance to the group, Ancelotti was effusive in his praise: “Danilo is a very important player, not just on the pitch, but also off the pitch. It is certain that Danilo will be in the final list of 26 because I like him. As a character, a personality, and for his game. He can play in every position across the back. Danilo will be among the nine defenders.“
The former Real Madrid, Manchester City and Juventus full back is currently a fringe player at Flamengo and has featured just twice under Ancelotti, against Paraguay and Tunisia. Yet with two World Cup appearances in 2018 and 2022 and two UEFA Champions League titles to his name, his experience and leadership make him a valued presence in the squad regardless of his playing time.
Given Rodri Hernández’s uncertain contractual situation at Manchester City, Real Madrid reportedly emerged as the main suitor for his services. However, Florentino Pérez supposedly rejected the move, setting his sights on Enzo Fernández instead.
Rodri Hernández has established as one of the best players at Manchester City, playing a key role in their historic UEFA Champions League title. Given his contractual situation, the Spaniard had been linked as a potential reinforcement for Real Madrid. However, president Florentino Pérez has reportedly rejected the veteran midfielder, turning his attention instead to Enzo Fernández.
After going through several seasons marked by injuries, Rodri Hernández now appears to be regaining physical consistency at Manchester City. In response, they are reportedly prioritizing a contract renewal, as his current deal runs until 2027. However, the Spaniard has made it clear that he remains open to a return to Spain, publicly opening the door to Real Madrid. As a result, his future remains uncertain.
According to Radio Marca, Florentino Pérez, president of Real Madrid, has decided to rule out the signing of Rodri Hernández. Instead, Los Blancos have turned their attention to Enzo Fernández from Chelsea. With a contract running until 2032 and having cost €120 million, the Blues could demand a very high transfer fee, as at 25 years old he is already one of the best midfielders in the world.
Enzo Fernández has hinted that he could leave Chelsea in the summer, stating that it will be ‘seen after the World Cup.’ Alongside this, the Argentine spoke live with influencer Marcos Giles, giving another nod to Real Madrid: “I would like to live in Spain. I really like Madrid, it reminds me of Buenos Aires. I would live in Madrid… I manage in English, but I would be better with Spanish.”
Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea.
As an undisputed starter and captain of Chelsea, Real Madrid would need to engage in a strong negotiation. However, Enzo Fernández has revealed that there are still no talks with Los Blancos. Therefore, the Blues remain confident in retaining the Argentine, who is a structural pillar of the project, balancing the team both offensively and defensively.
Not only Enzo: Real Madrid reportedly chases two midfielders
While Real Madrid boast several stars in midfield, they have struggled to maintain organization within the team. Because of this, they have reportedly decided to remain open to reinforcements, with Enzo Fernández as one of the main candidates. However, Los Blancos are also said to have two midfielders high on their priority list: Nico Paz and Kees Smit.
With this in mind, Real Madrid may not feel pressured to complete the signing of Enzo Fernández. As a result, they could look for the Argentine to push Chelsea for a move, lowering his transfer fee. If the English side hold firm, Los Blancos still have multiple options, ensuring they will secure reinforcements one way or another.
Rodrigo Hernandez of Manchester City and Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea.
While defining the final 26-player list for the 2026 World Cup, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni warned his players that the cut will be based on performances.
National teams are finalizing their plans during the March international window to determine the 26 names that will make up their respective squads for the 2026 World Cup, and Argentina are no exception. Facing a surplus of options, head coach Lionel Scaloni has warned his players that performance will be the deciding factor when it comes to making the final cut.
When asked about the roster situation at Monday’s press conference, Scaloni offered a candid assessment: “We have already submitted the 55-man list to the AFA, which they will then have to pass on to FIFA. As for the final 26, in terms of percentages, we are over the limit. We’ll have to start cutting players based on performance.“
Lionel Scaloni, Head Coach of Argentina reacts during the international friendly against Mauritania.
Scaloni also acknowledged that the narrow 2-1 win over Mauritania could factor into his thinking as he works toward the final roster. “There’s no other way, and the match the other day might have been a warning sign, or just a one-off. But these are things that, as a coach, you take note of. The final decision will be made at the end,” he added.
“What matters most is the team. We will think about the good of the team, and based on that, we will make decisions. I have the list fairly clear in my head, but if performances aren’t up to par, we will take action,” Scaloni added, sending a clear message that no player’s place is safe and that a dip in form between now and May could cost them their spot in the final squad.
Argentina and one last test against Zambia
Following the disappointing showing against Mauritania, Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi will start Tuesday’s friendly against Zambia. While the match represents a chance for Argentina to bounce back and send the home fans off on a positive note, it will also serve as a final audition for players fighting to secure their place in the World Cup squad.
When asked about his plans for the Zambia game, Scaloni made clear he intends to go with a full-strength lineup: “Most of the boys we know well will play tomorrow. I think it’s the final test, and regardless of how the match goes, as the minutes pass, we’ll make changes and look at more of the boys again. The idea is to field a more familiar team—the one everyone is used to seeing—and see how things turn out.“
Facing offensive issues, Christian Pulisic could be an attacking reinforcement for next season. With this in mind, AC Milan are reportedly closing in on an agreement for Andrej Kostić, betting on his high potential.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, AC Milan have struggled with serious attacking issues, finding it difficult to convert chances into goals. Amid Christian Pulisic’s drop in scoring form, the midfield has had to step up, leading the offensive efforts. Looking to improve their goal-scoring output and build for the future, the Rossoneri have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Andrej Kostić.
According to Matteo Moretto, AC Milan have reached an agreement with FK Partizan Belgrade to secure the signing of Andrej Kostić. Backing his youth, the Rossoneri will pay a €3.5 million transfer fee, along with €4.5 million in bonuses and a percentage of a future sale. With this, Christian Pulisic could gain a promising attacking partner, as the club looks to improve its scoring output.
At just 19 years old, Andrej Kostić has already impress at FK Partizan Belgrade. After scoring 11 goals in 34 games, the Montenegrin has established as the team’s second-leading scorer. Despite this, he wouldn’t be an immediate solution to the Rossoneri’s problems as he will be move back and forth repeatedly between the U23s and the senior squad, reports Matteo Moretto.
Christian Pulisic could play a key role in Filip Kostić’s adaptation at AC Milan. As one of the team’s leaders, the USMNT star could look to ease his integration during preseason, helping him adjust to Massimiliano Allegri’s overall system. Because of this, the Montenegrin could still earn a spot in the rotation, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility in attack.
Kostic could face off against Francesco Camarda for a spot at AC Milan
Despite Andrej Kostić potentially arriving as a highly promising young talent, he may not have his place at AC Milan fully secured. Like the Montenegrin, the club also have Francesco Camarda, who is considered a long-term project by the front office. Therefore, the 19-year-old striker could compete directly with the young Italian during preseason, aiming to earn a role in Massimiliano Allegri’s rotation.
With this in mind, Kostić or Camarda could be sent out on loan from the Rossoneri, seeking minutes and prominence they might not get under Allegri. While the Montenegrin could face difficulties finding a destination, the Italian striker is already attracting interest from Parma, where he could have significant playing time in Serie A, as per Nicolò Schira.
Pulisic may still receive a stellar striker in AC Milan
Christian Pulisic could still receive a reliable reinforcement in attack. While Filip Kostić and Francesco Camarda are bets for the future, they may not become immediate starters. Looking to boost the USMNT star’s performances, AC Milan are targeting Santiago Castro of Bologna, Mateo Retegui of Al-Qadsiah, or Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina, all players with Serie A experience, reports Nicolò Schira.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal.
After a disappointing performance against Mauritania, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi will be starting in the game against Zambia next Tuesday.
Lionel Messi came off the bench against Mauritania in a decision that raised questions about the star’s fitness management. Following a disappointing performance in the narrow 2-1 win last Friday, head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that the Argentine icon will start the upcoming friendly against Zambia.
At Monday’s press conference, Scaloni addressed the media in the aftermath of the Mauritania friendly, with his focus already shifting to the clash against Zambia. When asked specifically about Messi, the Albiceleste head coach confirmed that the Inter Miami star will be in the starting lineup.
Scaloni was also asked about his thinking behind the second-half substitutions, offering some clarity on his reasoning: “Regarding the changes, I wanted to give Julian (Alvarez) a bit of a rest. Nico González was coming off an injury as well, so we felt it was best to rest him and give an opportunity to other boys.
“Our idea is always to play with two forwards. It wasn’t necessarily something we wanted to do (the substitutions), but that was the plan,” Scaloni added. Messi entered the game in the second half in place of Nico Paz, alongside Rodrigo De Paul, who replaced Nico Gonzalez, and Franco Mastantuono, who came on for Julian Alvarez. The No. 10 struggled to make an impact in a second half in which Argentina failed to register a single shot on target.
Lionel Messi of Argentina.
Argentina now turn their attention to Tuesday’s clash against Zambia, ranked 91st by FIFA, once again at the Bombonera on March 31. With the Mauritania result leaving a sour taste among fans, Scaloni is ready to go all-out against Zambia, with Messi leading the charge from the start.
Scaloni looks to raise the bar after Mauritania performance
Even without Messi in the starting lineup, Scaloni fielded a team close to his preferred XI against Mauritania, with Marcos Senesi stepping in for the injured Lisandro Martinez and Nico Paz taking on a creative role in the system. The first half was encouraging, with Argentina dominating possession and goals from Enzo Fernandez in the 17th minute and Paz in the 32nd giving the Albiceleste a comfortable cushion.
The second half, however, was a different story, with Argentina’s level dropping off sharply. Emiliano Martinez was called into action three times as Mauritania registered eight shots to Argentina’s one, which was Messi’s blocked attempt. A Lefort goal in the 90th-plus minute made it 2-1 and set up a nervy finish, with the performance drawing widespread criticism and prompting even Martinez himself to offer a self-assessment.
When asked how the players responded to the display, Scaloni said: “It’s a good sign that they believe the match wasn’t good. It’s a sign that the team always competes and that, whether they play well or poorly, they always give the impression of being a cohesive unit—and that was what we failed to do the other day. Besides playing well, these players are intelligent. When that doesn’t happen, they realize it.“
The Argentina boss made clear his hope that the Mauritania display was an isolated episode rather than a cause for deeper concern. “From there, you correct things and move on to a next match that we believe is a good opportunity to get back to where we belong and to evaluate, for the sake of the fans, if it was truly just one match or a symptom of the moment. We hope it was just that one game and that the team shows the face we all know,” he concluded.
Liverpool are pursuing the renewal of Ibrahima Konaté, but the Frenchman does not appear likely to reach an agreement, leaving his future in doubt. In response, the Reds have reportedly set their sights on Maxence Lacroix, competing with Chelsea for his signing.
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Liverpool have continued to pursue a contract extension for Ibrahima Konaté, whose current deal expires at the end of the season. Despite their efforts, the Frenchman has yet to sign the extension, prompting the Reds to look for a replacement. In light of this, Maxence Lacroix has emerged as the clear favorite to bolster the Reds’ defense, competing with Chelsea for his arrival.
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool remain focused on renewing Ibrahima Konaté. Despite growing interest from Real Madrid and other teams, the Reds remain optimistic, making gradual progress in negotiations with the Frenchman. They have also submitted a lucrative renewal offer, aiming to secure his long-term future. However, they are already looking at Maxence Lacroix as a reliable alternative.
After establishing at Crystal Palace as an undisputed starter, Maxence has attracted attention not only from Liverpool, but also from Chelsea and Aston Villa. Moreover, the Reds will not find it easy to secure his signing, as the Eagles have also lost Marc Guéhi and could be very reluctant to let the Frenchman leave. Because of this, the 25-year-old defender could be involved in a high-value transfer.
Maxence Lacroix has managed to impress with his performances in the Premier League. With his pace and physicality, the Frenchman is already one of the most eye-catching defenders in Europe. With only 25 years old, Liverpool could look to prioritize his signing, as he would be an ideal complement to Virgil van Dijk and compatible with Micky van de Ven and his potential arrival.
Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match.
Not only Lacroix: Liverpool reportedly chase Luka Vuskovic
Due to constant injuries, Liverpool have struggled to perform defensively, lacking depth in rotation. For this reason, they are looking to make several changes, casting doubt over the futures of Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté. While Maxence Lacroix emerges as a strong option to reinforce the backline, the Reds are also reportedly considering the arrival of Luka Vušković.
According to BILD, the Reds are closely monitoring Vušković’s development, as he has impressed during his loan spell at Hamburger SV. At just 19 years old, the Croatian is already one of the best young defenders in the world. For that reason, Tottenham Hotspur could demand a significant fee for his transfer as he holds a contract until 2030. However, if the player pushes for a move, Liverpool would be open to signing him, willing to make a significant financial outlay.
Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool and Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace.
Having established as one of the top players in Serie A, Nico Paz has caught the attention of several European clubs. As a result, the Argentine is reportedly at the top of a list of three players that Real Madrid are looking to sign for the 2026–27 season.
After establishing as one of the best players in Serie A, Nico Paz has attracted the attention of numerous clubs such as Inter Milan. Given his strong performances, the Argentine has reportedly caught the eye of Real Madrid, who are seeking a return. Alongside him, two other players have joined the list of potential returns that Los Blancos are targeting ahead of the 2026–27 season.
According to Francisco José Delgado via Cadena SER, Real Madrid have decided they will count on Nico Paz, Endrick, and Víctor Muñoz ahead of the 2026–27 preseason. While the Brazilian is on loan and would not require a fee, they would need to trigger the buy-back clauses for the Argentine, valued at €9 million, and the Spaniard, valued at €8 million. Despite this, their continuity in the squad would not be guaranteed.
Although Endrick, Paz, and Víctor have been shining with their respective teams this season, they will have to prove themselves at Real Madrid, where a final decision will be made on their futures. However, the Argentine arrives established as one of the best players in Serie A, meaning he could directly compete with Thiago Pitarch for a starting spot. Alongside him, the Brazilian could remain in the squad, serving as rotation for Kylian Mbappé or Vinícius Jr.
Víctor Muñoz may find it harder to stay at Real Madrid. He could be a natural replacement for Vinicius Jr. However, coach Álvaro Arbeloa has decided to adjust his lineup, leaving room for only two forwards. Furthermore, the presence of Franco Mastantuono, Rodrygo Goes, and Brahim Díaz could close the door on him. Given this, the Spaniard could leave again, but on loan to control his future.
Nico Paz of Como 1907, Endrick of Olympique De Lyon, and Victor Munoz of Spain.
Real Madrid could make significant changes to their offense
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled to maximize the level of several of their players. Because of this, the potential returns of Víctor Muñoz and Endrick open the door to possible departures. Neither Rodrygo Goes nor Franco Mastantuono have managed to establish themselves as regular starters. In addition, Brahim Díaz and Gonzalo García could also be affected, so the upcoming preseason may open the door to exits.
As young players, Gonzalo García and Franco Mastantuono could be the most likely to leave Los Blancos, as they still need to prove their potential. With this, Víctor Muñoz and Endrick would gain more space in the rotation. Despite this, the continuity of Álvaro Arbeloa or the arrival of a new coach could reshape all plans. Therefore, the only certainty is that several players will define their future during the next preseason.
Looking ahead to next season, Manchester United appeared to be targeting Roberto De Zerbi as a strong candidate for the head coach position. However, they seem to be on the verge of losing him, as the Italian is reportedly close to joining Tottenham Hotspur.
Despite Michael Carrick’s impressive performance, Manchester United are reportedly still searching for candidates to become the new head coach. In light of this, Roberto De Zerbi emerged as a strong contender. However, the Red Devils appears to be on the verge of losing him, as the Italian is reportedly close to joining Tottenham Hotspur on a lucrative contract to take over this season.
According to reports by Ben Jacobs and Alex Crook on X (formerly Twitter), Tottenham Hotspur have decided to prioritize the imminent arrival of Roberto De Zerbi. After leaving Olympique Marseille as a free agent, the Italian is reportedly on the verge of joining the English club, as he has been offered a five-year contract with a high salary. As a result, the Red Devils have lost their supposed top choice for the new head coach position.
Amid Spurs crisis, the decision to back Roberto De Zerbi is generating more concern than relief. Throughout his professional career, the Italian has not faced a challenge like pulling a team away from relegation, something Tottenham are experiencing this season. In addition, he has not managed to last more than two seasons at his last three clubs, which makes the long-term contract a source of concern.
While Roberto De Zerbi was a highly regarded option at Manchester United, they weren’t looking to get into a bidding war to secure his signing either. The Italian coach has yet to win titles in Europe’s top leagues, so his arrival reportedly didn’t generate widespread support. Consequently, his move to Spurs appears to be a smart move for his career, but a risky one for the team’s survival in the Premier League.
Roberto De Zerbi acknowledges the fans following the Premier League match.
Carrick continued tenure at Manchester United could be real
Michael Carrick has had a positive impact at Manchester United. Since his arrival, the team has put in solid performances and secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League. In addition, he has helped improve the performance of several players, including Kobbie Mainoo, Benjamin Sesko, and others. Given the difficulty in securing a highly experienced head coach, Carrick’s continued tenure as head coach could become a reality.
According to ESPN, the Red Devils are considering Julian Nagelsmann, Andoni Iraola, Unai Emery, and Oliver Glasner as leading candidates for the head coaching position. Despite this, Carrick stands out as the top candidate, as he has had a positive impact not only on results but also on the team’s play and the development of the roster.
While Carrick does not have solid experience as head coach, he has reshaped the Red Devils roster into a highly competitive one. Coming from several wrong bets in the coaching spot, Manchester United may look to build on their current success, as several of the team’s stars seem quite comfortable and the results are promising.
Roberto De Zerbi looks on prior to the Premier League match.
Since his knee injury, Christian Pulisic has been unable to regain his impressive scoring form at AC Milan, going nearly three months without scoring a goal. Despite this, the USMNT star remains positive, sharing details about his physical condition.
At the start of the 2025-26 season, Christian Pulisic established as AC Milan’s undisputed leader, topping the team in both goals and assists. However, he has yet to regain his offensive impact after his knee injury, going three months without scoring. Far from feeling the pressure, Pulisic remained quite positive about this difficult period, revealing key details about his current physical condition.
“I need to be more clinical in those moments. It’s a difficult period, but I feel physically fit and I’m creating chances. I just need to stay positive. I know that at some point the ball will hit my knee and go in, and then everything will change. I’m not panicking. Better now than in the summer. Things will change,” Pulisic said, via The Athletic.
Despite his goal drought, Pulisic has already regained his offensive impact with the Rossoneri. Not only has he remained an undisputed starter for coach Massimiliano Allegri, but he also provided an assist in the previous match against Torino. Furthermore, he has remained a key part of the team’s play, distributing the ball and contributing defensively.
Christian Pulisic has regained his top physical form, playing more than 75 minutes in AC Milan’s last three games. As a result, Coach Allegri has regained more versatility on offense, though Rafael Leão, Niclas Füllkrug, and Christopher Nkunku have failed to convert those opportunities into goals. For this reason, the USMNT star should regain his scoring touch heading into the end of the season.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring against Hellas Verona.
Pulisic shouldn’t have to shoulder all the scoring burden at AC Milan
Massimiliano Allegri has restored competitiveness to AC Milan, consistently keeping them among the top sides in Serie A. However, Christian Pulisic’s drop in form exposed their main issue: A lack of scoring prowess. While the USMNT star’s scoring output has declined, the Rossoneri should not place all their focus and efforts solely on him, and instead need to adjust certain aspects.
The Rossoneri may be open to selling several stars such as Nkunku, Santiago Gimenez, and even Leão. With this, they are reportedly looking to chase a Serie A-experienced striker, such as Santiago Castro of Bologna, Mateo Retegui of Al-Qadsiah, or Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina. Far from removing Pulisic’s importance, AC Milan could be looking to redistribute the scoring burden and hold more options.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match.
After being reelected, president Joan Laporta said that Lionel Messi's departure from FC Barcelona ended up being "the right decision."
Lionel Messi‘s controversial departure from FC Barcelona resurfaced as one of the most talked-about topics in Spain during the presidential elections in which Joan Laporta was comfortably returned to power. Now set to begin his third term at the helm of the club, Laporta addressed the subject once again, this time asserting that Messi’s exit was ultimately “the right decision.”
In an interview with El Pais, Laporta was asked whether Messi’s abrupt departure would leave a mark on his legacy, and the Barcelona president was direct: “It is something I will always carry with me. I also like to think that it was with me as president that we put Leo in the first team. And for many years, he was the best player in the world with me as president. Later, I had to make a decision, and I believe I got it right.“
Despite the circumstances surrounding Messi’s exit, Laporta argued that subsequent events have vindicated him. “I let the results speak for themselves. We were able to recover the club’s economy, we built a competitive team, and it was time for a generational handover. Leo was at the end of his career, and we had to build a new team. Would I have liked to build the new team with Leo helping? Yes. We tried that, but it wasn’t meant to be,” he concluded.
Messi announced his departure from Barcelona five years ago
The backdrop to Messi’s departure was laid bare in 2021 when El Mundo revealed that his final Barcelona contract saw the Argentine legend earn a staggering 555 million euros gross over four years. Faced with that financial burden and unable to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, Laporta maintained that he “did what he had to do.“
Messi’s silence and a potential tribute at Barcelona
While Xavi, one of Messi’s closest friends and former teammates at Barcelona, chose to make pointed remarks about Laporta, and while Laporta dismissed those claims in turn, the Inter Miami star has stayed out of the dispute entirely. Messi has not made his position public, though reports suggest his relationship with the re-elected Barcelona president remains strained.
Laporta, for his part, has been working to rebuild that relationship, particularly given his close ties to Jorge Messi ahead of the 2021 election. While a return as a player is firmly off the table, the president is pushing for a statue outside Camp Nou and a tribute match in Messi’s honor.
When asked whether the statue proposal could serve as a bridge to reuniting with Messi, Laporta was optimistic: “He is a generational benchmark player: Kubala, Cruyff, and Messi. He must have a statue and also a tribute match. Barca is his home. The relationship of the future and the immediate present will be whatever Leo wants and whatever Barca wants. At some point, our interests will converge again.“
Set to depart from Manchester United after the 2026 World Cup, Casemiro is reportedly getting closer to playing alongside Lionel Messi at Inter Miami rather than with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.
Casemiro has emerged as one of the most serious candidates to become Lionel Messi‘s next teammate, with a potential move to Inter Miami gaining momentum. Despite reported interest from Al Nassr in reuniting him with Cristiano Ronaldo, reports suggest the Brazilian midfielder is closer to Fort Lauderdale than Saudi Arabia.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season, Casemiro announced his decision to leave Manchester United back on January 22. Since then, the Brazilian has been one of the team’s standout performers and among the most consistent midfielders in the Premier League, prompting fans to call for him to trigger a one-year extension clause available in his deal.
However, the midfielder has made his decision to leave Old Trafford final. “I believe the announcement is now done. It is huge, the affection that the fans have shown towards me. But I do really believe the decision is made and done. I am enjoying myself right now. I believe it will be some difficult moments, these final games at Manchester United,” he told The Athletic‘s Adam Crafton on Thursday following Brazil’s 2-1 defeat against France.
Under those circumstances, Fabrizio Romano has reported that Inter Miami are among the leading clubs interested in signing Casemiro. The Herons have already made their move, opening talks with the Brazilian’s representatives and submitting an initial proposal that could bring him to the East Coast alongside Messi.
Casemiro of Manchester United celebrates after scoring against Fulham.
Romano also noted that interest in Casemiro extends to clubs in Europe and Saudi Arabia, two areas where Inter Miami may struggle to compete financially. Diario Marca has reported that Al Nassr have already made the 34-year-old an offer to pair him with Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, one that would be significantly more lucrative.
However, Casemiro’s decision does not appear to be purely financial, as the midfielder has been sending signals of his own. Diario AS reports that the Brazilian recently purchased a home in Miami, a clear indication that Inter Miami’s ambitious project holds genuine appeal beyond just the numbers.
Inter Miami’s financial hurdles in pursuing Casemiro
From a squad perspective, Casemiro would be a significant addition to Inter Miami, particularly given the struggles the club has experienced in central midfield this season. Sergio Busquets’ retirement left a major void, and David Ayala, brought in from the Portland Timbers as his replacement, has found it difficult to settle, contributing to the team’s Round of 16 exit in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
With all three Designated Player slots currently occupied by Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and German Berterame, Inter Miami’s options are limited but not entirely closed. The club acquired an international roster slot from the New England Revolution in the last transfer window, though it must be returned if unused by July.
If the Herons can move on enough players to free up funds, and if Casemiro is willing to take a significant pay cut, there remains a path for him to join Lionel Messi for the second half of the 2026 MLS season.
Lionel Messi (L) #10 of Inter Miami, Casemiro (M) of Manchester United, and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Al-Nassr FC.
While Al Nassr face more schedule changes, now in the Saudi Pro League, Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly entered the final stage of his recovery from injury.
Cristiano Ronaldo‘s muscle injury forced him to miss the Portugal national team’s March international window in order to complete his recovery in Saudi Arabia. With Al Nassr also navigating schedule changes in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese star is reportedly entering the final stretch of his rehabilitation.
The hamstring injury Ronaldo suffered against Al Fayha on February 28 has kept him off the field for the entire month of March. The forward has missed two club matches and was also passed over for Portugal’s two friendlies, but his return to action is now drawing close.
As reported by Al Nassr reporter Abdulaziz Al-Osaimi, Ronaldo has been reporting to the club’s training facilities regularly. However, the Portuguese star is currently limited to individual sessions rather than full group training alongside his teammates.
Reports have emerged suggesting that team physician Dr. Carlos Miguel has cleared both Ronaldo and Sadio Mane to rejoin group training from Sunday onward. However, Ronaldo has opted to remain cautious and take a measured approach to avoid any risk of a setback.
Ronaldo offered an encouraging update on his recovery two days ago with an Instagram post captioned “On the ball” during a training session. With their respective rehabilitation programs now complete, head coach Jorge Jesus could have both Ronaldo and Mane available for the next match against Al Najma on Friday, April 3.
More schedule changes for Al Nassr
With the March international break now behind them, clubs are set to return to action next week, and Al Nassr are no exception. For Ronaldo, however, his comeback from injury coincides with a notable shift in the team’s fixture schedule.
The Saudi Pro League has confirmed that Al Nassr’s Matchday 29 clash against Al Ettifaq at Al Awwal Park has been moved to Wednesday, April 15, nine days earlier than its original date of Friday, April 24. As a result, the team will now face Al Najma on April 3, Al Okhdood on April 11 and Al Ettifaq on April 15 in a compressed run of fixtures.
The reshuffle also overlaps with what could be Al Nassr’s run to the AFC Champions League Two semifinals. The club is set to face Al Wasl on April 19 at Zabeel Stadium in Dubai in the single-leg quarterfinals, a format that has already drawn displeasure from the Saudi side, and the semifinals are scheduled to fall just one or two days before the original Al Ettifaq date, making it effectively impossible to fulfill both commitments under the previous schedule.
Moving the Al Ettifaq match to April 15 eases some of the congestion, but Jorge Jesus still faces a significant decision with only three days of rest before the Al Wasl quarterfinal, namely whether to prioritize the Saudi Pro League title race or manage his squad with an eye on the Champions League Two.
With France set to face Colombia, Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele's absence in the starting lineup raised some doubts among fans.
France and Colombia meet in one of the most compelling matchups of the March international window on Sunday at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. However, when the starting lineups were released, both Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele were notably absent from the France XI.
Neither Mbappe nor Dembele will start against Colombia, with head coach Didier Deschamps opting for a heavy rotation following the win over Brazil. The French manager has taken a completely different approach for the clash against Los Cafeteros, making wholesale changes throughout the lineup.
In fact, compared to Thursday’s starting XI against Brazil, not a single player has retained their spot for the Colombia match, including goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who has been replaced between the posts by Brice Samba.
Against Brazil, Dembele’s involvement was limited to 58 minutes before Deschamps brought on Maxence Lacroix following Dayot Upamecano’s red card. Mbappe, who opened the scoring in that match, was substituted in the 66th minute, with Marcus Thuram coming on to take his place up front.
Nos 1️⃣1️⃣ Bleus pour débuter face à la Colombie 🇨🇴✊
Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo has taken the opposite approach, naming a full-strength side that includes James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz and others from the start. With a bench that still includes Mbappe and Dembele, however, Deschamps retains the element of surprise should he need to call on his biggest names.
Mbappe closes in on France’s all-time top goalscoring record
Having long since left Thierry Henry in his rearview mirror, Kylian Mbappe is now on the verge of becoming France’s all-time leading scorer. His chipped goal against Brazil last Thursday brought his tally to 56, leaving him just one shy of the record.
That record belongs to Olivier Giroud, who scored 57 goals in 137 appearances. Mbappe sits one behind with 95 caps to his name, and should he find the net against Colombia, he will become France’s all-time top scorer with the World Cup just around the corner.
Kylian Mbappe (L) and Ousmane Dembele (R) of France.
Amid the scrutiny he's received over his preparation for the 2026 World Cup, Kylian Mbappe addressed the situation by mentioning Cristiano Ronaldo.
Kylian Mbappe has become a focal point of conversation given the ongoing doubts surrounding his fitness, with Real Madrid fans growing increasingly concerned about his readiness for the 2026 World Cup. Amid the scrutiny, the French striker invoked the name of Cristiano Ronaldo to address the situation.
Speaking from France’s training camp, Mbappe made his commitment to Real Madrid clear in an interview with Telefoot: “In Spain, they are a bit worried about that—that I might not play… and that I’ll head straight to the World Cup. The best way to prepare is to win everything beforehand with Madrid.“
The French star went on to address how the passionate nature of the Real Madrid fanbase can amplify concern beyond what might otherwise be warranted. “The people are very passionate. For them, Real Madrid is a religion. Everything to do with the club and with me creates a combination that makes everyone talk and speculate. Sometimes with reason, sometimes without it.”
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid battles for possession with Jeremy Doku of Manchester City.
Mbappe then invoked some of the club’s all-time greats to put his own situation in perspective: “At Real Madrid, they have criticized everyone—Cristiano Ronaldo, Di Stefano… I don’t see why I should escape that kind of criticism. You have to deal with the critics. Stay calm, focus on the work, and have the confidence to believe that you can improve the situation on the pitch.“
Even Cristiano Ronaldo faced scrutiny
Despite his recent knee injury, Mbappe remains Real Madrid’s standout performer this season in front of goal. Through 35 appearances across all competitions in the 2025-26 campaign, he leads both the La Liga and UEFA Champions League scoring charts with 38 goals and six assists.
That status was once synonymous with Cristiano Ronaldo, who shattered records at Real Madrid as a goalscorer during his peak years at the club. Yet even as the team was winning back-to-back Champions League titles, the Portuguese star was not immune to criticism from the stands.
One of the most memorable episodes came in April when Real Madrid eliminated Bayern Munich, and despite Ronaldo scoring a hat-trick, he was still met with whistles from sections of the crowd. “I don’t tell them to be quiet, never, I only ask them not to whistle because I always give my best in every game. Even if I don’t score goals, I try to work hard to help Real Madrid,” he said after a Champions League quarterfinal.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates scoring against Bayern Munich in 16-17 UCL.
Time for Mbappe to knock Bayern Munich out
Now facing a situation not unlike the one Ronaldo navigated, Mbappe is expected to be the decisive figure if Real Madrid are to go deep in the Champions League. Los Blancos face Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals over the first two weeks of April, and the Frenchman has made clear he is confident about getting past one of the competition’s most in-form sides.
“We are still involved in the two remaining competitions, La Liga and the Champions League. We are going to play against Bayern, who I believe are the most in-form team in Europe right now. But if there is one team that can beat that kind of side, it’s Real Madrid,” he said, sending a message of confidence to the club’s supporters.
Kylian Mbappe (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Real Madrid.
Given his poor form, Ferran Torres’ future at Barcelona remains highly uncertain. With his contract set to expire in 2027, the Spaniard has caught the attention of two major Premier League clubs as a star signing.
Ferran Torres has gone from being an undisputed player at FC Barcelona to becoming a backup to Robert Lewandowski. With a contract running until 2027, the Spaniard’s future remains highly uncertain, as he has yet to renew and the Blaugrana would be open to a transfer. In this context, the 26-year-old striker is attracting interest from two major Premier League clubs, leaving his future unclear.
After starting the 2025-26 season in top form, Ferran has hit a significant slump in his performance. Having last scored on January 31 against Elche EF, the Spaniard has now gone two months without contributing a goal. As a result, Barcelona would be open to a transfer, reports Diario Sport. Given this situation, the 26-year-old striker is attracting interest from the Premier League.
According to TEAMtalk, Ferran Torres current situation at FC Barcelona has caught the attention of Manchester United and Arsenal. While his current form is not at its best, both clubs still have him on their radar since his time at Manchester City, as he can perform both as a striker and as a winger. In addition, the Blaugranas would be open to selling him if a strong offer arrives.
Red Devils are reportedly targeting Ferran Torres as the natural replacement for Joshua Zirkzee, who is expected to leave in the summer of 2026 after lacking playing time. Given his versatility and scoring ability, the Spaniard is a priority for Manchester United, alongside Iliman Ndiaye of Everton. This contrasts with Arsenal, who consider the 26-year-old star more as an option if he becomes available at a good price.
Ferran Torres of FC Barcelona.
Barcelona may extend Ferran Torres deal amid Julián Álvarez uncertainty
Throughout the season, Barcelona have reportedly made Julián Álvarez a priority to strengthen their attack. However, Atlético Madrid are looking to keep him by offering a contract renewal. As a result, the Argentine’s potential move to the Blaugrana is at risk, meaning they could opt to renew Ferran Torres and rely on their current talents if they are unable to secure a top-level reinforcement.
After his re-election as president, Joan Laporta stated that the Blaugranas are in no rush to sign a striker: “We have two great center forwards, Ferran and Lewandowski, and I’m delighted with both of them,” he said, via Mundo Deportivo. With this perspective, they remain open to renewing Ferran Torres’ contract, as they do not appear ready to spend over €100 million on a new striker.
Ferran Torres of FC Barcelona warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26.
Although Cristiano Ronaldo’s inclusion on Portugal’s roster has drawn heavy criticism, his absence against Mexico was keenly felt. In light of this, José Mourinho has taken a subtle swipe at the national team, defending the veteran’s place in the starting lineup.
After securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup, Portugal scheduled a pair of friendly matches to maintain their form. However, they couldn’t rely on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is still dealing with physical issues. Consequently, they failed to defeat Mexico, prompting José Mourinho to deliver a strong critique of the national team’s performances, highlighting their dependence on the veteran striker.
“Take Cristiano Ronaldo out of the picture and Portugal look like any run-of-the-mill team… People keep asking us not to call him up. Well, he didn’t play today and you saw the result. No threat, no fear from the opposition. Just a team being put under pressure by Mexico… When Ronaldo is on the pitch, the opposition think twice. Without him, they don’t think at all,” José Mourinho said, as per TUDN Mexico.
Despite being 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the essential piece of the national team, standing as the top scorer in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. However, his absence against Mexico national team exposed a harsh reality: They do not have a promising goalscorer to replace the veteran, as Gonçalo Ramos and Paulinho have yet to truly shine.
Far from being a criticism of Cristiano, José Mourinho has consistently defended the veteran against fans calling for him to be dropped following the strong result against Armenia. Gonçalo Ramos has yet to take off in his career, as he remains a regular substitute at Paris Saint-Germain and with Portugal, without making a real scoring impact, but coach Roberto Martínez continues to call him up as a backup.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal lifts the UEFA Nations League trophy.
Joao Félix could emerge as Portugal’s scoring solution
Despite the fact that Portugal do not have many promising center-forwards, coach Roberto Martínez could still have a solution to their scoring struggles when Cristiano Ronaldo is absent. Amid the poor form of Gonçalo Ramos and Paulinho, João Félix could emerge as a strong alternative, but within a specific setup that could even boost Francisco Conceição and Rafael Leão.
Switching to a ‘false 9’ formation could position João Félix as the solution, given his impressive scoring form and peak performance with Al Nassr. This change would allow coach Martínez to grant more freedom to Leão and Conceição, enabling them to leverage their dribbling skills and pace to make a difference. With Cristiano Ronaldo now 41 years old, these adjustments may soon become a need for Portugal.
Cristiano Ronaldo may not retire after 2026 World Cup
With a contract with Al Nassr running through 2027, Cristiano Ronaldo may not retire from professional soccer after the 2026 World Cup. With this, he could extend his time with Portugal for a few more matches, in which he will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. The veteran could be instrumental in the transition up front, helping Joao Félix or even Gonçalo Ramos lead the way into a new era.
Colombia and France face off in their final friendly match of this doubleheader of international friendlies. While the Cafeteros are coming off a painful defeat, the Blues are in top form. As a result, the game is shaping up to be a close contest. Here are the predicted lineups for both sides.
Looking to be in top form for the 2026 World Cup, Colombia and France face off in their final match of doubleheader of international friendlies at FedEx Field. However, the two teams are in very different form. While the Cafeteros are coming off a loss and need a win to dispel any doubts, the Blues are riding an eight-game unbeaten streak and are in top form.
Colombia have established as one of the most solid national teams in CONMEBOL. However, they do not arrive in their best form, as they are coming off a loss to Croatia. In addition, the Cafeteros have struggled to be clinical in attack, facing serious issues converting their chances, despite the good form of Luis Suárez and Luis Díaz in European leagues.
Far from their problems ending there, the Cafeteros’ main figure, James Rodríguez, arrives lacking match sharpness after several months without a club and having only recently joined MLS. As a result, the team’s creative output takes a significant hit, which they will look to overcome by defeating France—something they achieved in their last meeting in 2018.
France enter the match as the clear favorite to defeat Colombia. Having racked up eight consecutive wins, they have managed to remain one of the most dominant teams in the world. Furthermore, Les Bleus boast impressive depth on the bench, meaning they don’t rely solely on Kylian Mbappé or Ousmane Dembélé; instead, they can adjust their play as they see fit and give their stars a rest.
James Rodriguez of Colombia and Thomas Lemar and N Golo Kante of France during a friendly in 2018.
Colombia confirmed lineup vs France
While Colombia are coming off a loss, they have managed to enter today’s match without any serious injuries. Given this, coach Nestor Lorenzo is sticking with a similar lineup, centered around James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz. Additionally, they might look to start Luis Suárez again, hoping he’ll showcase his top-tier talent. Along with this, Álvaro Montero could see some playing time as the goalkeeper, giving Camilo Vargas a rest.
The Cafeteros lineup as follows: Álvaro Montero; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sanchez, Juan David Cabal, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Richard Rios; Jhon Arias, James Rodríguez, Luis Diaz; Luis Suárez.
France confirmed lineup vs Colombia
After impressing against Brazil, France is making drastic changes to their lineup, leaving Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé on the bench. With this, coach Didier Deschamps gives to Marcus Thuram and Maghnes Akliouche. In addition, the presence of Adrien Rabiot is in doubt, as a knock kept him out of the last training session. Because of this, Warren Zaire-Emery is jumping to the starting lineup.
Les Bleus’ lineup to face Colombia is the following: Brice Samba; Pierre Kalulu, Maxence Lacroix, Lucas Hernandez, Lucas Digne; N’Golo Kanté, Warren Zaire-Emery, Maghnes Akliouche; Rayan Cherki, Marcus Thuram, Desire Doue.
James Rodríguez of Colombia and Rayan Cherki of France.
Argentina and Mauritania are clashing on Friday, in one of the last Lionel Messi games with the national team prior to the beginning of the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina will host Mauritania on Friday, March 27, in an international friendly at the Bombonera. With fans eager to see Lionel Messi in action, the match represents one of the Albiceleste’s last tune-ups before the 2026 World Cup gets underway.
Argentina head into the game after seeing their original plans for the March window fall apart. Friday was supposed to be the date of the Finalissima against Spain, but the match was ultimately canceled due to the conflict in the Middle East and the two federations’ inability to reach a scheduling agreement.
Mauritania now represents an opportunity for the Argentine Football Association to avoid another gap in their World Cup preparation and get some meaningful work in. Messi and company had already been dealt a setback in November, when they were limited to a single friendly, a 2-0 win over Angola on the road.
On the other side, Mauritania, currently ranked 115th in the FIFA standings, arrive having failed to qualify for the Arab Cup after a 2-0 defeat against Kuwait in November. The nation also took part in CAF World Cup qualifying, finishing fifth in Group B in 2025 with one win, four draws and five defeats in 10 matches, in a group topped by Senegal.
Argentina players warming up during a training session at Lionel Messi training facility.
Scaloni on Argentina’s opponents and the Finalissima
With the Finalissima off the table, the Argentine Football Association pivoted to arranging home friendlies in March so that fans could bid farewell to Messi and the national team before the World Cup. However, the late addition of Mauritania and Zambia as opponents has renewed questions about the level of competition the Albiceleste has been tested against in recent months.
When asked Thursday about why Argentina has not been facing higher-caliber opponents, Scaloni was direct: “November was the only window in which we could have played against a European side. Before that, they were tied up in the Nations League, and now the suspension happened. People can say whatever they want, but that is the reality. There are 60 people traveling; it’s not as easy as it seems to relocate at the last minute after a cancellation like the one we just had. Playing against the best doesn’t guarantee you anything,” the coach said.
FC Barcelona have confirmed that Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury in the game against France, a news that could end up jeopardizing his dream of performing in the 2026 World Cup with Brazil.
FC Barcelona have confirmed that Raphinha sustained an injury during Thursday’s international friendly against France at Gillette Stadium. With the latest update now official, questions have emerged over how this setback could affect the Brazil national team’s preparations, especially with the 2026 World Cup less than three months away.
Brazil fell 2-1 to France in a match where Kylian Mbappe scored the opener, with Raphinha among the starters for coach Carlo Ancelotti. The Barcelona winger was the first substitution of the second half, immediately raising questions over whether it was a tactical call by the Italian manager or a sign that something was wrong physically.
On Friday, Barcelona released a statement confirming that Raphinha has suffered a right hamstring injury. The diagnosis was carried out by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) following the discomfort he experienced during the France match, and the results confirmed the worst fears.
As confirmed by the Spanish club, Raphinha is returning to Barcelona to begin the appropriate treatment, with the estimated recovery period set at five weeks, ruling him out for the remainder of March and all of April.
Michael Olise of France runs with the ball against Raphinha of Brazil.
Raphinha set to miss several key games
The timing of Raphinha’s injury could not be worse, for either Brazil or Barcelona. With a five-week recovery timeline, the winger will be sidelined until at least May 1, missing up to seven matches, with that number potentially rising if Barcelona continue their run in the UEFA Champions League.
Among the games he will sit out is Brazil’s upcoming friendly against Croatia, but it is Barcelona who face the steeper consequences. Raphinha will miss the upcoming La Liga fixtures and the Champions League quarterfinals against Atletico Madrid, and will also be short of match fitness for the El Clasico at Camp Nou scheduled for May 10.
This outlook assumes Raphinha does not suffer any additional setbacks during his recovery. Throughout the 2025-26 season, the Brazil star has already missed 13 games through injury, the majority of them coming between September and November due to a muscle injury in his right thigh.
With Ancelotti reportedly planning to submit his final World Cup squad list around May 17, Raphinha will have precious little time to prove his fitness before the deadline. Given that the Italian manager has consistently cited full fitness as a prerequisite for national team selection, pointing to it as a key reason for Neymar’s omissions, this injury to the same area as his previous one could put one of Brazil’s most important players in a very precarious position heading into the tournament.
Set to face Mauritania on Friday, Argentina star Lionel Messi is starting the game on the subs bench.
Argentina will host a friendly against Mauritania at the Bombonera on Friday, March 27, as part of the March international window. With the 2026 World Cup now just weeks away, questions have emerged over whether Lionel Messi will feature in the starting lineup.
Lionel Messi will not be starting against Mauritania. While the specific reasons for his omission from the first XI have not been disclosed, load management is believed to be the primary factor, with the coaching staff keen to avoid exposing him to unnecessary physical strain.
Even without Messi in the starting lineup, fans will not have to wait long to see him in action. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has already confirmed that the Inter Miami star will feature in both Friday’s game against Mauritania and Tuesday’s match against Zambia.
“Leo is going to play. I don’t know if he’ll start in this match or the other, but he will be in both. As a bonus, for Argentines to have Messi for two more matches, when we thought he wouldn’t play anymore, it’s a beautiful opportunity for everyone to see and enjoy,” Scaloni said when asked about the Argentina captain at Thursday’s press conference.
Lionel Messi of Argentina runs during a training session.
In holding Messi back from the start, Scaloni also indicated that the coaching staff plans to field “a mix of boys we want to see” in order to “recover certain performance levels.” With several Argentina regulars having struggled for form at their respective clubs of late, the Albiceleste boss is looking for a noticeable upturn in the coming days.
Scaloni eager to see Messi at the World Cup
At 35 years old, Messi captained Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar in 2022. There were serious doubts at the time about whether the Inter Miami star would even be available for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and while his participation now appears closer to being confirmed, Messi has yet to make an official announcement.
When asked about the matter on Thursday, Scaloni was careful not to speak on Messi’s behalf but made clear his desire to have him involved: “That is more of a question for him. For my part, you already know what I think. I will do everything possible to ensure he’s there. I believe that, for the good of football, he has to be there. It will be up to him, his state of mind, his physical condition. It’s difficult.“
The coach then spoke to the broader excitement Messi generates among fans worldwide. “It’s not just the Argentines who want to see him. Everyone wants to see him. When he’s there, if he’s fit to play the whole match, he is the one who decides. He has earned the right to decide calmly. We are in no rush for that. Whatever he decides will be what’s best for both the team and for him,” Scaloni concluded.
Despite Marcus Rashford’s promising start at Barcelona, his form has dipped, raising questions about his future at the club. Against this backdrop, Aston Villa are reportedly emerging as a clear suitor for the English forward ahead of next season.
Marcus Rashford seemed to be establishing as one of Barcelona’s key players, contributing both as a scorer and a playmaker. However, his performance has dipped, which has reportedly led the Blaugranas to reconsider exercising his €30 million buyout clause, as they seek to lower that figure. Amid this, Aston Villa are reportedly emerging as a potential suitor looking to sign him back.
According to Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are no longer entirely convinced about exercising Marcus Rashford’s €30 million buyout clause. Given his dip in form, the club’s sporting department plans to assess his performance in the final stretch of the season. They are even considering loan options to keep him for another season, but Manchester United do not seem entirely on board with the idea.
While Barcelona hesitate, Manchester United receive interest from Aston Villa regarding a potential signing of Rashford. According to Sports Boom, the Villans are trying to convince Jadon Sancho, but Borussia Dortmund’s involvement has complicated the deal. As a result, they have turned their attention to Marcus, as his performances for the Blaugranas have been impressive.
Aston Villa do not have an easy task in convincing Marcus Rashford. Throughout the season, the Englishman has expressed his strong desire to continue at Barcelona. However, coach Unai Emery is reportedly confident he can tempt Marcus, but this will depend on whether the Blaugrana ultimately rule out signing him on a permanent deal.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona celebrates a goal.
Rashford has just few months to impress at Barcelona
Following Raphinha’s injury early in the season, Hansi Flick decided to give Marcus Rashford a chance, and he made a huge impact, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists. However, the Englishman suffered a knee contusion, leaving him without any offensive contributions for nearly two months. Despite this, the coach plans to give him more playing time, with just a few months left to prove himself.
Given his limited playing time, Flick revealed that Marcus has been dealing with some issues, which have limited his impact. However, the German has revealed that Rashford is now in top form. As a result, he has until the end of the season to regain his scoring touch and silence the Blaugranas’ doubts, as they are not entirely sure about exercising their purchase option and are eyeing Jan Virgili instead.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona smiling prior a game.
FIFA has confirmed the rule changes for the 2026 World Cup, including VAR expansion and new time management measures.
FIFA has been working on significant rule changes to be applied throughout the 2026 World Cup. With fewer than 90 days to go before the tournament kicks off in North America, the governing body has now announced the modifications set to be implemented, with VAR expansion and new time management measures headlining the list.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB)has spent recent months working on the approval of several adjustments to the laws of the game, designed to address recurring issues and clarify common match situations.
With the details now finalized, FIFA’s plan is to roll out the new rules starting next season, with key changes set to be introduced at the World Cup following pilot tests across several competitions, including the Arab Cup and the U-20 World Cup.
New rules in the World Cup
10-second maximum per substitution
One of the key changes involves the time a player has to exit the field when being substituted and the consequences for non-compliance. The substituted player will now have a maximum of 10 seconds to leave the field, and if that window is not met, rather than the offending player being shown a yellow card, their replacement must wait one minute before entering the pitch, temporarily leaving the team a man short.
England’s substitutions.
Countdown for game restarts
One of the most common time-wasting tactics involves teams, typically those protecting a lead, taking their time to restart play from throw-ins and goal kicks. Under the new rules, a five-second countdown will be applied to both situations at the 2026 World Cup, with any team exceeding the time limit conceding possession.
Players receiving medical attention must temporarily leave the field
Another common tactic used to slow the tempo of a game involves players going down to receive medical attention on the pitch. Under the new rule, any player treated on the field must leave and wait one minute before returning, with exceptions made when the injury was caused by a foul resulting in a card, or when the player in question is the goalkeeper.
VAR influence expanded
The VAR has become one of the most debated additions to the modern game, particularly in a sport historically resistant to significant rule changes. While the video assistant referee’s scope was previously limited to potential red-card offenses and penalty decisions, its reach will now be extended to cover second yellow cards that result in a red, as well as incorrectly awarded corner kicks.
Only captains permitted to address referees
While this principle has been in place for some time, the rule requiring captains to be the only players authorized to approach and speak with match officials is now being formally enforced with teeth. Any player other than the captain who approaches the referee to contest a decision will now be automatically cautioned with a yellow card.
After failing to beat Norway in the 2026 UEFA World Cup Qualifiers, Italy face Northern Ireland in the playoffs, looking to secure their spot in the tournament. Here, we’ll provide minute-by-minute coverage of the game.
Italy entered the match as the clear favorite to defeat Northern Ireland in the 2026 UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. However, they struggled to make an impact on offense, as their opponents shone on defense, cutting off all their aerial options. In response, Sandro Tonali led the charge, scoring a goal and providing an assist to Moise Kean, turning the game around for the Azzurri.
Although Northern Ireland remained fairly solid defensively, they struggled to find openings on offense. Coach Michael O’Neil opted to build play through the midfield, taking advantage of the large spaces Italy was leaving open. However, they were overwhelmed throughout the game, leaving them little room to react. In fact, they managed just one shot on goal in the 90 minutes.
Looking to capitalize on the presence of Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui, coach Gennaro Gattuso opted for a fast-paced game down the wings, making the most of aerial play. However, Northern Ireland’s rock-solid defense thwarted Italy’s advances. In the second half, Sandro Tonali and Barella took on a more prominent role, supporting the forwards and creating more openings in the defense.
Faced with Italy’s physical game, Northern Ireland was relentlessly outplayed. They were pinned back in their own half for most of the match, clearly worn down by the sheer number of attacks. After Tonali’s opening goal, they lost their attacking momentum, allowing coach Gattuso to lead the Azzurri to the playoff final.
Sandro Tonali of Italy scores his team’s first goal.
Tonali and Kean were Italy scorers vs. Northern Ireland
After a second half with increased attacking pressure, Italy managed to break the deadlock. From a cross by Matteo Politano, Isaac Price of Northern Ireland headed the ball clear, but it fell to Sandro Tonali. With no immediate pressure, the midfielder unleashed a powerful first-time strike, beating Pierce Charles.
SANDRO TONALI GIVES ITALY THE LEAD AND NEW BALANCE ARENA IN BERGAMO ERUPTS 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/es3AkNDUVl
Italy managed to regain their attacking spark, thanks to Sandro Tonali, whose goal unlocked the team’s best attacking form. Following a through ball from the Italian midfielder, Moise Kean received the ball, beat Ruairi McConville, controlled it, and fired a powerful shot into the left corner, leaving Pierce Charles without options.
Kylian Mbappe got on the scoresheet as France edged Brazil 2-1 despite finishing the game with 10 men.
Brazil and France meet in a friendly for the March international window on Thursday, March 26, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. In a thrilling finish with Les Bleus reduced to 10 men, Kylian Mbappe led France to a 2-1 victory over the Canarinha.
Early in the second half, Dayot Upamecano was sent off for bringing down Wesley in the 52nd minute, but France still managed to double their advantage when Michael Olise set up Hugo Ekitike in the 65th minute. Brazil pulled one back through Bremer in the 78th minute after a cross from Luiz Henrique, and Vinicius Junior came agonizingly close to snatching an equalizer in the final play of the game, but Les Bleus held on to claim the win.
France will now travel to Landover, Maryland, to face Colombia in their second friendly of the March window, scheduled for Sunday, March 29, at Northwest Stadium. Brazil, meanwhile, head to Orlando to take on Croatia at Camping World Stadium on Tuesday, March 31.
Kylian Mbappe of France celebrates after scoring against Brazil.
With the 2026 MLS season already underway, questions are being raised about when Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi will play his next game.
Lionel Messi is still making history at 38 years old, remaining a cornerstone and captain for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season now underway, fans are wondering when they’ll see the forward back in action.
Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, when the Herons will be visiting Real Salt Lake in the MLS at the Rio Tinto Stadium. The Argentine legend heads into the fixture after scoring a brace in the 3-2 win against the Colorado Rapids.
As for international duty with Argentina national team, Lionel Messi is set to return to action during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Albiceleste will be facing Honduras on June 6th, and Iceland on June 9, leaving Messi and company just one week to regroup before their tournament opener against Algeria on the 16th.
The 2026 MLS campaign has just begun for Messi, who has featured in nine official matches so far across all competitions, scoring eight times without registering an assist. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF during the MLS match against LAFC.
Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title
The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time.
Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas.
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