Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, confirms the Belgian striker will resume training with his Napoli teammates today, meeting with Antonio Conte: ‘The coach will decide what to do.’
Belgium international Lukaku has returned to Naples after spending over one month in Antwerp, Belgium, for individual training sessions to regain full fitness.
Lukaku refused to return to Naples during the international break in March, remaining in Belgium without the club’s consent.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
He was, therefore, fined and frozen out of the team. He did return to Naples for just one day towards the end of April to meet club directors with his agent, Pastorello.
“I know both [Lukaku and Conte] really well, and they both live football with great passion,” Pastorello told DAZN Belgium via TMW.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“That was not the right moment for a meeting, but they’ll do it today.”
Lukaku has now returned to Napoli’s training centre, his agent confirmed.
“Lukaku is back to Napoli, as expected, and he’ll resume training with the team now that he’s in better shape. Then the coach will decide what to do with Romelu,” Pastorello said.
Lukaku suffered a severe muscle injury at the beginning of the season, which forced him to the sidelines in the first part of the campaign.
The Belgian international, 32, has played only 64 minutes across all competitions this season, scoring one goal.
His contract at the Stadio Maradona runs out in June 2027.
Reports in Italy claim that Luka Modric returned to the Milan training centre this morning. Hence, the Rossoneri hope to see the Croat return to action for the last game of the season despite a recent cheekbone surgery.
Modric’s season with Milan might not be over as Italian sources, including Sky Sport Italia and MilanNews, report that the 40-year-old returned to Milanello on Tuesday morning for the first time since suffering a cheekbone injury that required surgery two weeks ago.
Modric returns to Milanello for first time after surgery
It was expected that Modric would not play for Milan again this season, focusing his recovery on the World Cup with the Croatia national team.
However, according to MilanNews, his return to Milanello this morning suggests that the Real Madrid legend will push to be available for the season’s final game.
PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Gian Piero Gasperini is pushing Roma to secure contract renewals for four out-of-contract players this summer, including Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini, both of whom have been linked with Inter Milan, while Zeki Celik has also attracted interest from Liverpool.
According to Sky Sport, via TuttoMercatoWeb, the recent departures of Claudio Ranieri and sporting director Frederic Massara have actually brought the squad closer together, with Gasperini using that unity to press the club for a clean sweep of renewals.
Alongside Dybala, Pellegrini and Celik, winger Stephan El Shaarawy is also out of contract, with all four previously considered likely to leave at the end of the season.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Gasperini pushes Roma board to retain key quartet despite summer uncertainty
The situation has shifted, however, with Gasperini now understood to want all four players kept at the club.
His desire to retain them comes amid significant external interest, especially at zero cost.
Celik has been linked with both Inter and Liverpool, while Pellegrini has also been mentioned in connection with the Nerazzurri.
Dybala, meanwhile, has been repeatedly linked with a return to Argentina to join Boca Juniors.
Keeping hold of these players would be a significant mark of strength from Roma, especially as fans feel many still have something to give to the club.
Losing any of them, especially to a division rival like Inter, would be a huge blow, especially as
Italian transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà reports that Lazio coach Sarri is the leading candidate for the Napoli job next season if Conte leaves.
The Partenopei boss is under contract at the Stadio Maradona, but his future at the club will be determined in the coming weeks, with a meeting expected between the Italian tactician and the Napoli management, including President Aurelio De Laurentiis.
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 18: Maurizio Sarri SS Lazio head coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and SS Lazio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 18, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Pedullà writes on X that “confirmations are coming from all sides” that Sarri is Napoli’s “top name” for next season if the club and Conte decide to part ways.
Sarri returned to Lazio last summer but has had a troubled season at the Stadio Olimpico, mostly due to a summer transfer embargo that prevented the Biancocelesti from making new signings for the first part of the campaign.
Sarri, 67, already spent three seasons at Napoli, from 2015 to 2018.
He won 98 of 148 games in charge of the Partenopei, failing to win the Scudetto in his final season at the club despite collecting 91 points.
Inter legend Beppe Bergomi insists Milan, Juventus and Napoli can’t settle for a mere top-four finish next season and warns Barcelona about Alessandro Bastoni’s price tag: ‘He has great value…’
Inter and Italy legend Bergomi examined the Nerazzurri’s title-winning campaign in an interview with Repubblica, where he also discussed the improvements that Cristian Chivu’s team will need for 2026-27.
Chivu has won the Scudetto in his first full Serie A season as a coach, and Bergomi had no doubts about the former defender’s quality in the dugout.
“I knew he’d do well. Roberto Samaden, who had long been in charge of the youth sector, told me that Cristian could win his players’ hearts, and he did,” he said.
Bergomi went on to name the key Inter player this term.
“Lautaro. He’s the top scorer despite playing fewer games than in the past,” he said.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“He has amazing quality and leadership skills. Zielinski and Dimarco are just one step behind.”
Bergomi feels the Nerazzurri’s target for next season is already set, but he also sent a warning to the other contenders.
“Win the league again, and it is not only true for Inter,” he claimed.
“Milan, Napoli and Juve can’t just say ‘we aim for a Champions League spot.’ It’s not fair towards the fans. The Champions League is an opportunity, but it is complex. With the new formula, if you don’t finish [the league phase] in the top eight, it gets very tough.”
According to recent reports, the Nerazzurri will have a minimum budget of €40-50m to strengthen the team, a sum that could be increased through some sales.
“I’d like a physically strong central midfielder, like Koné, Rabiot or Khephren Thuram, and a dribbler, like Nico Paz,” Bergomi said.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 01: Beppe Bergomi looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and FC Internazionale at Sardegna Arena on March 1, 2019 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“It will be hard to sign him from Real Madrid, but that’s the type of player [Inter need].
“Inter have been without Calhanoglu, Dumfries, and Lautaro for many games,” continued the ex-defender.
“Bastoni too. In addition to injuries, he was subjected to unjustified public shaming. He made a mistake, but he took responsibility for it.”
Jamie Carragher has ruled out Antonio Conte as a candidate to become the next Chelsea manager while identifying Como head coach Cesc Fabregas as one of the most exciting emerging coaches in football, as the Blues search for a permanent successor to interim manager Callum McFarlane.
According to comments made on Sky Sports, via the Standard, Carragher was unequivocal about several names on the shortlist.
“You can probably rule out the bottom three, Mourinho, Lampard and Conte,” he said. “They’ve all managed Chelsea before, so I don’t see that. Fabregas does look like right now one of the new hot things in football, doing really well. Filipe Luis is doing really well, obviously had a spell at Chelsea as a player.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 28: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, reacts from the technical area during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 28, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Carragher says Chelsea is ‘broken’ as Como boss Fabregas emerges amongst leading candidates
Carragher reserved particular praise for Andoni Iraola before returning to the broader problem facing any incoming manager, a club he believes has been fundamentally damaged by its ownership.
“It’s shocking, and it comes from the top,” he said. “There are five or six really top players on that pitch and they’ve just been beaten by Nottingham Forest’s B team. Less than 12 months ago they were taking PSG to the cleaners. This football club is broken.”
On the challenge of attracting players, he added: “If I were a young player, why would I sign for Chelsea? They’d give me 12 months and if I wasn’t amazing, they’d buy another player in my place. How do you build a connection between players, fans and staff? It’s not there.”
The context makes Fabregas’s candidacy all the more intriguing. The former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder has impressed enormously in his first adventure as a top-flight manager, guiding Como to the brink of European qualification.
His connection to Chelsea, where he spent two seasons as a player, adds another layer to what would be a compelling appointment, and Carragher’s endorsement will only strengthen his standing as a frontrunner.
Juventus risk losing some of their most prized assets this summer if they fail to secure Champions League qualification, with Real Madrid among the clubs monitoring Kenan Yildiz and Premier League sides keeping tabs on Francisco Conceicao.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the weekend’s home draw against already-relegated Verona has intensified the pressure on Juventus, leaving the club in a precarious position in the race for a top-four finish. The consequences of missing out would stretch well beyond the dugout.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Bremer of Juventus FC is challenged by Kieron Tom Bowie of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Yildiz, Conceicao and Bremer all at risk without Champions League football for Juventus
Yildiz is understood to be a long-standing target of Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, and while the young Turkish forward is devoted to the Juventus cause, the club’s ability to retain him would be significantly weakened without European football to offer.
Conceicao has also attracted sustained Premier League interest, and Gleison Bremer, who publicly apologised for his error in the Verona draw, has similarly not fallen off the radar of top clubs.
Dusan Vlahovic’s situation adds another layer of complexity.
His contract talks remain unresolved, and without Champions League football, the Serbian would likely be far more receptive to approaches from clubs already guaranteed a place in Europe’s elite competition next season.
Manchester United are planning to strengthen their midfield this summer, and several Serie A stars, as well as Italy international Sandro Tonali, have been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Manchester United’s targets in Serie A
UK media outlets (via Manchester Evening News) are reporting that Manchester United are ready to invest £150m (circa €173m) in new signings this summer, with a specific aim on central midfield.
Italian transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà has claimed that both the Red Devils and Atletico Madrid are interested in Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with the Colchoneros seemingly slightly ahead in the race, having already offered €30m plus add-ons.
Atalanta, however, aim to get at least €40m from the Brazilian’s sale in the summer, so the race to secure his signature remains wide open.
Italy and Newcastle midfielder Tonali has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but other top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester City, are also considering a move for the ex-Milan star.
Manchester United are also looking for attacking reinforcements with Milan stars Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic both reported to be on their agenda.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Thomas Thiesson Kristensen of Udinese Calcio and Christian Pulisic of AC Milan compete for the ball during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
United reportedly scouted Leao during a 0-0 draw against Juventus two weeks ago, and Gazzetta reported last week that the Premier League giants are eager to offer Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee or Marcus Rashford in a potential player-plus cash swap deal.
According to Calciomercato.it is understood that Manchester United are also attracted to Pulisic’s versatility, but are aware that Milan won’t sell the USMNT captain for less than €60m.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter owners have already made €40-50m available for the summer transfer window, but the budget would increase with the sale of some players, especially Alessandro Bastoni.
Inter are already preparing to strengthen their team for 2026-27 after winning their 21st Scudetto this season.
Gazzetta reports that club owners Oaktree have already informed directors about their transfer budget for the summer, which will be between €40m and €50m.
The Serie A champions are expected to make significant changes, especially in defence, with Yann Sommer, Matteo Darmian, Francesco Acerbi and Stefan De Vrij leaving at the end of their contracts in June.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Giovanni Leoni of Liverpool controls the ball whilst under pressure from Leo Scienza of Southampton during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri have already been linked with Liverpool centre-back Giovanni Leoni, who played under Cristian Chivu at Parma last season.
Inter’s strategy in defence will largely depend on whether Bastoni stays beyond the summer.
President Beppe Marotta has confirmed Barcelona’s interest in the Italian centre-back, yet the Nerazzurri have received no formal proposal.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic has already reached an agreement with the Nerazzurri, but club-to-club talks are still not at an advanced stage.
Experienced midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is also expected to leave at the end of his contract in June, and according to Gazzetta, Curtis Jones is another Liverpool player targeted by the Nerazzurri.
Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario has been identified as the priority to replace Yann Sommer.
According to Gazzetta, Inter and Chivu could even decide to reshape the team, making suitable signings to a four-man defence.
In this scenario, Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra is a primary target, as the Italian can play either as a full-back or an attacking winger.
As reported by Corriere dello Sport, Inter still hope to sign Nico Paz from Real Madrid next summer, as the Argentine is expected to return to the Bernabeu from Como at the end of the current campaign.
Italy international Riccardo Calafiori is not expected to start for Arsenal in the Champions League semifinal second leg against Atletico Madrid tonight, as Mikel Arteta ‘could be tempted by the added security of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.’
Arteta to drop Calafiori for Arsenal vs. Atletico Madrid?
Calafiori’s Arsenal host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League semifinals at the Emirates Stadium in London tonight.
The first leg played in Madrid last week ended in a 1-1 draw.
Calafiori returned to action after nearly a month last weekend, playing the full 90 minutes in a 3-0 win over Fulham.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Arsenal FC and FC Kairat Almaty at Arsenal Stadium on January 28, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
The Italian defender is eligible for tonight’s fixture, and even though Standard.co.uk admits the ex-Roma and Bologna defender ‘looked sharp’ in his latest outing, Arteta ‘could be tempted by the added security of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.’
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Calafiori has scored one goal and provided three assists in 32 appearances across all competitions with Arsenal this term.
He is in his second season at the Emirates Stadium, where his contract expires in June 2029.
Milan risk missing out on Champions League qualification, and Gazzetta warns that failing to secure a top-four finish will have consequences, including the departure of Luka Modric.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that missing out on a Champions League placement would have significant consequences for Milan, not only in terms of appeal and finances.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Luka Modric of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
To start with, Croatian star Modric would almost certainly leave San Siro at the end of the season if Milan don’t finish in the top four.
Modric’s contract expires in June, and Milan will activate their option to extend until 2027 only if the 40-year-old agrees to stay.
Sky Sport previously reported that Modric would stay at Milan only in case of Champions League qualification and if Massimiliano Allegri stays for one more season.
The Italian tactician’s future at San Siro would also be uncertain without a top-four finish.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
His contract expires in June 2027 and will automatically be extended to 2028 with Champions League qualification.
However, failing to reach the season’s main target might convince the coach to leave the Rossoneri, especially with the Italy national team job available.
Roma are still very much in the race for the Champions League. After securing a comfortable 4-0 home win against Fiorentina on Monday, the Giallorossi are just one point below fourth-placed Juventus with three games remaining.
Roma 4-0 Fiorentina: Gasperini’s post-match press conference
“I’ve always received important answers from these lads, who have always wanted to improve themselves,” the Roma boss said via Corriere dello Sport.
“We’ve always had a strong attachment, and I see even more in these last few games. We’ve never given up; we didn’t have a target, so we set it ourselves.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal with teammate Matias Soule during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“We know that by recovering some players, we can have our say, we get to the final rush with confidence, but we’ve always been there.
“At the end of the season, we’ll have to talk to avoid the misunderstandings we’ve had. We need clarity,” he added.
“Perhaps we didn’t understand each other well. Now we are there, and we’ll fight.”
Roma parted ways with Senior Advisor Claudio Ranieri two weeks ago, effectively reinforcing Gasperini’s powers within the club.
Sporting director Frederic Massara is also expected to leave the Stadio Olimpico at the end of the season, with Gasp previously admitting that he and the club executive had had different views throughout the current campaign.
“We want to gift a result beyond predictions, and this strongly motivates us. This team’s strength is the unity in the dressing room, and it bothers me to think that this group is only worthy of a fifth- or sixth-place finish,” Gasp continued.
“This is a strong team with solid foundations. There are values that must be strengthened and not wasted. I respect everyone’s opinions, but I must work with my ideas. If I have to work with other ideas, I’d rather find another place.”
Roma will face Lazio in the penultimate round of the season. Even if the date and kick-off time have yet to be officially confirmed, Lega Serie A President Ezio Simonelli has hinted that the match will be played on May 17 at 12:30 CET.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri looked unhappy with the kick-off time decided by Lega Serie A and threatened not to go on the bench for the derby.
“Perhaps it will rain. It won’t be hot. The problem is that there aren’t any other times available,” Gasp said.
“Nobody is happy with that kick-off time. I’ve been told that we can’t play in the evening. Monday at 18:00 [CET] would be even worse, and then there’s the matter of games played simultaneously. You’ll see, Sarri will be there eventually.”
Real Madrid’s midfield is clearly in desperate need of a massive overhaul, and it looks like club president Florentino Perez has finally locked onto his primary target.
Following another deeply frustrating campaign where Los Blancos are seemingly surrendering the La Liga title to Barcelona for a second consecutive year, sweeping changes are expected at the Bernabeu.
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Real Madrid are actively plotting an audacious summer raid on Manchester City to secure the services of their Dutch international midfielder, Tijjani Reijnders, according to Defensa Central.
Now, after two underwhelming seasons, the Spanish giants are ready to take decisive action to revitalise their stalling project.
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The club’s management is desperately searching for a technical leader capable of providing vision, balance, and much-needed personality in the middle of the park.
Ultimately, the upcoming summer transfer window is shaping up to be an absolutely critical period for Real Madrid.
They are set to end the season without winning a single trophy and for a club like Real Madrid, it is totally unexpected, considering their high standards.
Man City midfielder has struggled at Etihad this season
Securing a complete, dynamic midfielder like Reijnders from Man City would be a massive statement of intent.
It remains to be seen whether the Dutchman alone would be able to solve their midfield issues. Perhaps they need more than one player in that position.
However, Reijnders showed at AC Milan how consistent he can be and if Real Madrid can get that version of the Dutchman, they would be more than happy with their business.
As per recent reports, the Dutch midfielder is being heavily linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium following his reduced playing time under Pep Guardiola.
The winger has just enjoyed a phenomenal individual campaign, particularly shining on the grandest stage with a staggering 10 goals in 12 Champions League appearances.
This elite European form has fully convinced Bayern manager Vincent Kompany, who has approved the move.
However, Bayern aren’t the only ones impressed with the England international.
Despite interest from other top clubs, FC Bayern have now presented Anthony #Gordon and his camp with concrete figures. Gordon could sign a five-year contract at Bayern.
The main issue remains an agreement with Newcastle – not with the player. Bayern have clear limits.… pic.twitter.com/u0iRXkmsBg
Gordon himself hasn’t publicly demanded an exit, but the desire to consistently compete for major silverware and regular Champions League football is a massive draw for the attacker.
If Bayern can find a way to meet Newcastle’s lofty valuation, both Arsenal and Liverpool would lose the race to sign the attacker before even entering the race properly.
Bayern Munich mean business and they are wasting no time to secure the signature of Gordon.
Gianluigi Donnarumma was desperate to see Everton’s second goal ruled out on Monday, even kneeling before referee Michael Oliver, a gesture that earned him his seventh yellow card of the season, the most of any goalkeeper in Europe.
Italy captain Donnarumma received his seventh yellow card of the season on Monday, during Manchester City’s 3-3 draw against Everton.
As reported by Goal.com, Gigio has received more yellow cards than any other goalkeeper in Europe’s top ten leagues.
Donnarumma believed he had been fouled in the build-up to Everton’s second goal, which stemmed from a corner kick routine. However, his protests to the referee did not yield the desired outcome.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MAY 04: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City speaks with referee Michael Oliver during the Premier League match between Everton and Manchester City at Hill Dickinson Stadium on May 04, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
The Italian goalkeeper had previously produced a couple of decisive saves and somehow contributed to Manchester City’s late equaliser by rushing inside the Everton box for a late corner kick which led to Jeremy Doku’s goal.
Donnarumma is in his first season at Manchester City, where he has conceded 40 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions and kept 16 clean sheets.
Donnarumma’s ups and downs in Everton 3-3 Man City
One name that is making waves in the managerial world is Spaniard Cesc Fabregas who has impressed with Como in Serie A.
His team is currently sitting in 5th position in the league and they could qualify for the Champions League next season in a major surprise, showing the impact Fabregas has had at the Italian club.
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Given his legendary status at both Arsenal and Chelsea, it makes perfect sense that English clubs are keeping a close eye on his rapidly rising coaching stock.
But if any Premier League owners think they can easily lure the Spaniard away from his current project, they are going to be severely disappointed.
Fabregas is ready to wait for Premier League opportunity
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After initially guiding Como out of the depths of Serie B, he has completely transformed them into genuine heavyweights in the top flight.
A huge part of that success is down to their watertight defense. Fabregas has organised his team brilliantly, and they currently boast the best defensive record in Serie A, having conceded a league-low 28 goals so far this campaign.
Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Fabregas reiterated his deep love for English football, firmly declaring it the “best league in the world.”
However, he also revealed a brilliant piece of advice he received from Jose Mourinho during their time together at Stamford Bridge.
“The Premier League is the best league in the world,” Fabregas told the Daily Telegraph, as reported by Sky Sports.
“I’ve always been very, very clear about it. I felt it as a player, I feel it as a coach, as a fan.
“But [Jose] Mourinho told me one day when I was at Chelsea: ‘I still have 30 years to work.’ So I could be here [Como] for 10 years, and you can still go to the Premier League in 12, 15 years.
“Football is so unpredictable, it changes in one second. One day, you are the best. The day after, you are the worst. So let’s enjoy the moment. I like to enjoy the moment. It’s beautiful what we are living here. Let’s see what the future holds.”
Chelsea are currently without a manager and are reportedly heavily monitoring their former midfield maestro.
But Fabregas recently revealed that at Como, he takes all the football decisions. He works seamlessly day-to-day with his sporting director and feels incredibly lucky to have a club president who completely trusts him to run the show.
That kind of absolute structural freedom is something he would likely struggle to find under Chelsea’s current ownership model.
At the end of the day, Fabregas knows exactly how brutal this industry can be. As he wisely pointed out, football changes in a second, one day you are hailed as the absolute best, and the very next day you are the worst.
The Premier League will undoubtedly be waiting for him whenever he is ready, but for now, he is determined to make Como successful.
As Arsenal prepare to host Atletico Madrid in the decisive second leg of their massive Champions League semi-final showdown at the Emirates, the tension in North London is high.
With the tie beautifully poised at 1-1 following their meeting in the Spanish capital last week, the stakes couldn’t possibly be higher.
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While many fans and pundits are nervously biting their nails and sitting firmly on the fence, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has confidently backed Arsenal to beat the Spanish giants and qualify for their first Champions League final since 2006.
He is boldly predicting that Mikel Arteta’s men will punch their ticket to the grand finale.
For years, the narrative surrounding Arsenal in Europe was incredibly consistent, they were beautifully brilliant on the ball, but fragile when the going got tough.
Carragher backs Arsenal to qualify for UCL final
According to Carragher, that soft underbelly has been completely eradicated under Arteta.
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The “big change” the pundit is raving about is Arsenal’s newfound, ruthless pragmatism.
Gunners have evolved under the leadership of Arteta
In the past, a naive Arsenal side might have completely lost their heads during the chaotic 1-1 draw at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano last week.
Instead, they matched Atletico’s intense physicality blow-for-blow.
Carragher argues that because Arsenal have finally learned how to suffer without collapsing, they are the favourites to go through.
Not to forget, the Gunners have home advantage in the second leg and they would be hoping that the support from their fans will act as a catalyst to push them through this difficult match.
As Carragher pointed out Rice’s change in position recently, Arteta would be hoping to see his midfielder put his best performance of the season in the club’s biggest match in a long time.
Champions League final in Budapest is the target for Arteta and his players and they have a great chance of making history, or at least continue the process of making history.
Seeing Phil Foden wearing any shirt other than sky blue just wouldn’t feel right.
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Manchester City have reached an agreement in principle to extend their homegrown superstar’s contract.
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At 25 years old, Foden is currently entering the absolute prime of his career, and tying him down is undoubtedly one of the most crucial pieces of boardroom business the Premier League giants will conduct all year.
However, the club’s hierarchy has moved decisively to nip any potential drama in the bud.
Phil Foden is set to stay at Man City
The freshly agreed terms will see the England international ink a massive four-year extension, keeping him firmly locked into the Etihad project until June 2030.
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Crucially, the blockbuster deal also includes a club option for an additional year.
While the final legal formalities still need to be officially rubber-stamped before an announcement, the deal has been successfully navigated by Foden’s high-profile agent, Rafaela Pimenta.
Foden is the ultimate proof of concept for the City Football Academy, a local Stockport lad who successfully navigated his way through the youth ranks to become a completely undroppable cog in Pep Guardiola’s relentless winning machine.
Versatile Englishman has a crucial role at the Etihad
As the squad naturally transitions and legendary figures gradually begin to age out or move on, Foden is no longer just a brilliant supporting act or a promising youngster, his role has increased at the club.
Despite having a poor season by his high standards, the England international remains the future of Man City.
He dictates the tempo, unlocks deep defensive blocks, and scores crucial goals when the lights are brightest.
Securing his signature ensures that the beating, creative heart of City’s attack remains firmly in place for the next half-decade.
Real Madrid, along with Manchester United, are looking for a new manager at the end of the season.
Both the clubs are set to end the season without a trophy, following spells of struggles in the season.
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Both Real Madrid and Man United parted ways with their managers in the middle of the season.
Xabi Alonso was shown the exit door at the Santiago Bernabeu while Ruben Amorim was sacked following a poor run of form at Old Trafford.
Coincidentally, both the club turned to their former players. Alvaro Arbeloa joined Real Madrid while Michael Carrick was given the keys to the kingdom at Old Trafford.
However, both of them were interim appointments and now the search for a permanent manager has started.
Real Madrid are set to target Unai Emery
According to talkSPORT, Spanish giants Real Madrid have officially placed Aston Villa mastermind Unai Emery on their highly exclusive shortlist to become their next manager.
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As Los Blancos begin mapping out their long-term future, their search for a proven, tactically astute leader has seemingly led them straight to the Premier League.
When the Spaniard first arrived at Villa Park, the club was struggling to find a clear identity.
Fast forward to today, and he has completely transformed them into a legitimate Premier League heavyweight, consistently disrupting the established elite and turning their home ground into a genuine fortress.
His brilliant ability to elevate individual players and implement a highly effective, possession-heavy system has rightfully re-established him as one of the elite managers in world football.
From Real Madrid’s perspective, adding Emery to their wishlist makes perfect logical sense.
Club president Florentino Perez knows exactly what it takes to survive in the Spanish capital, and Emery’s La Liga pedigree is absolutely undeniable.
He has a massive history of overachieving in Spain, having previously delivered immense success and multiple trophies during his stints at Sevilla and Villarreal.
More importantly, he possesses the one thing Madrid values above all else, elite European knockout pedigree.
As a serial winner on the continental stage, his tactical blueprint is practically tailor-made for navigating tricky Champions League ties.
Emery is totally bought into the long-term project backed by Villa’s highly ambitious ownership group. More importantly, he is firmly locked into a massive contract that runs all the way until the summer of 2029.
Even Man United are interested in him but both Real Madrid and the Red Devils face a mountain to climb to convince him to leave the promising project at Aston Villa.
Liverpool’s legendary goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, has emerged as the absolute top transfer target for Italian giants Juventus.
At 33 years old, the Brazilian shot-stopper finds himself at a major career crossroads.
With his contract at Anfield entering its final twelve months, following the club’s recent decision to trigger a one-year extension option to keep him until the summer of 2027, the whispers of a blockbuster move back to Serie A are growing louder by the day.
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Sky Sports have confirmed that the Premier League legend has become the primary target for Italian giants Juventus.
It all comes down to the man currently sitting in the Juventus dugout.
Alisson Becker is being eyed by his former manager
From Liverpool’s perspective, cashing in on their iconic goalkeeper might actually make a lot of logical sense right now.
Let’s be completely honest, Alisson has endured a deeply frustrating campaign ravaged by nagging hamstring injuries, forcing him to miss crucial Premier League and Champions League fixtures.
Furthermore, the Reds already have their succession plan completely sorted out.
Giorgi Mamardashvili has seamlessly stepped up to the plate during Alisson’s injury absences, proving to the Anfield hierarchy that he is more than ready to permanently take over the gloves.
With huge, experienced dressing room figures like Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson already heading out the exit door this summer, Liverpool are firmly in the middle of a ruthless, sweeping squad evolution under Arne Slot.
Losing a player of Alisson’s immense caliber is never an easy pill to swallow. Even club captain Virgil van Dijk recently admitted that while players will inevitably leave, the Brazilian remains “the best goalkeeper in the world” and a genuinely crucial leader on the pitch.
If Juventus can match Liverpool’s financial demands and offer a tempting package, a return to Italy might be the perfect fresh start for Alisson to cap off his career.
The narrative surrounding Anfield has definitively turned negative in recent weeks.
Following a deeply frustrating 3-2 defeat at the hands of arch-rivals Manchester United over the weekend, Liverpool’s 2025/26 campaign has officially hit another massive speed bump.
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That loss marked their 11th Premier League defeat of the season.
While manager Arne Slot is still expected to keep his job provided he guides the Reds to a top-five finish and secures elite European football, the immense pressure is undeniably starting to mount.
Legendary striker and pundit Gary Lineker has just thrown gas on the fire, admitting he genuinely wouldn’t be surprised to see the club make a ruthless managerial change by bringing in former midfield maestro Xabi Alonso this summer.
Arne Slot continues to struggle at Liverpool
Just 12 months ago, Slot was viewed as untouchable after brilliantly winning the Premier League title during his debut season in the Anfield dugout. However, this current campaign has been an absolute slog.
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Big-money acquisitions like Florian Wirtz have struggled to find their absolute best form, and a frustrating injury to striker Alexander Isak has severely hampered their attacking flow.
Speaking on the latest episode of The Rest is Football podcast alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, Lineker didn’t hold back his thoughts on the situation.
“Would Slot be there next season?” Lineker asked Shearer and Richards.
“Eleven defeats in the Premier League, still in the Champions League positions. I wouldn’t be surprised if Xabi Alonso was there next season.”
It is worth noting that Alonso is currently a high-profile free agent, having been out of work since parting ways with Real Madrid in January 2026.
He was heavily linked to the Liverpool job when Jurgen Klopp initially stepped down, but he opted to stay at Bayer Leverkusen before eventually making his move to Madrid in June 2025.
Currently, Liverpool are incredibly close to mathematically securing their primary objective for the season.
They need just four more points from their remaining fixtures against Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Brentford to completely guarantee Champions League qualification for next term.
If Liverpool stumble poorly through their final three fixtures, the club’s ownership group might just decide that bringing their former Champions League-winning midfielder back home is the perfect way revive the club.
Liverpool are preparing for life without influential defender Virgil Van Dijk.
It is an open secret that Liverpool’s recruitment team is heavily focused on future-proofing their defensive line.
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With Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term future remaining slightly uncertain and the legendary Virgil van Dijk entering the twilight years of his brilliant career, finding elite reinforcements at the back is an absolute necessity.
According to Football Insider, the Reds have aggressively narrowed their search, drafting a highly ambitious shortlist that features two of Europe’s absolute best left-footed centre-backs: Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni and Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck.
Liverpool start search for Van Dijk’s replacement
Slot’s possession-heavy system heavily relies on building out from the back with quick, precise passing under high pressure.
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Having a naturally left-footed centre-back is considered the ultimate tactical luxury these days.
While cheaper domestic options have been floated around, Bastoni and Schlotterbeck represent genuine, marquee additions designed to keep Liverpool firmly at the top of the English game.
Bastoni is widely regarded as one of the most complete, elegant ball-playing defenders on the planet.
At Inter Milan, he has developed into an absolute anchor, famous for his ice-cold composure, elite long-range passing, and brilliant ability to comfortably carry the ball out of tight spaces.
The Italian defender has helped Inter win the Serie A title this season with his consistent performances.
The Borussia Dortmund star is an absolute warrior in the air and thrives on stepping out of the defensive line to crunch into tackles and disrupt attacks early.
He brings a massive wealth of Champions League experience and that relentless, high-intensity energy that translates perfectly to the grueling pace of English football.
Ultimately, securing either of these defensive juggernauts will require Liverpool’s ownership group to significantly open their checkbooks this summer.
Landing a player of Bastoni or Schlotterbeck’s caliber wouldn’t just solve a massive tactical puzzle, it would send an undeniable warning shot to the rest of Europe.
Manchester United are searching for a long term replacement of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro.
The iconic midfielder is set to leave the club at the end of the season having impressed during his spell at Old Trafford.
However, his time in the Premier League is now coming to an end and the deep search has started to replace him at the club.
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Carlos Baleba of Brighton is one of the names on Man United’s radar to replace Casemiro, having held long term interest in the young midfielder, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
The 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder has enjoyed a strong campaign, establishing himself as a key figure in Brighton’s system.
After high-profile sales like Moisés Caicedo in recent years, the Seagulls are once again preparing for a potentially huge transfer, with Baleba now attracting serious interest from across Europe.
Baleba is high in demand among Premier League elites
Baleba’s rise this season has been impressive. Featuring in 28 Premier League matches, he has showcased the kind of consistency and composure that top clubs look for in a defensive midfielder.
His 86% passing accuracy highlights his reliability in possession, while his ability to break up play and shield the defense has made him one of Brighton’s most important players.
What stands out most is his balance. Baleba isn’t just a defensive presence, he’s also capable of progressing the ball forward and supporting attacking transitions.
That combination of physical strength and technical quality has drawn comparisons to elite holding midfielders, which explains why clubs are lining up to secure his signature.
Even so, they are unlikely to accept anything significantly below that figure, given Baleba’s importance and long-term potential.
Other clubs are also monitoring the situation. Arsenal and Chelsea have both shown interest in the past, while scouts from Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich have followed his progress closely.
The upcoming summer transfer window wouldn’t be complete without a massive tug-of-war over one of the world’s brightest young talents.
Right now, that spotlight is firmly locked onto 19-year-old Brazilian sensation Endrick.
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According to TEAMtalk, Premier League heavyweights, specifically Arsenal and Chelsea, have recently made formal enquiries about the striker’s availability.
But if the Gunners were hoping to pull off a sensational summer heist to bolster their attack, they are completely out of luck.
Real Madrid have made their stance crystal clear: Endrick is absolutely not for sale.
After struggling to find regular minutes under former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso during the first half of the campaign, the teenager actively pushed for a temporary move and joined Lyon in the winter window.
Endrick has revived his career in France
Since arriving at Lyon on loan in January, he has been absolutely electric. By racking up seven goals and seven assists in just 18 appearances across all competitions, Endrick has completely reignited the massive hype surrounding his long-term potential.
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That kind of elite, explosive production is exactly why Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing Arsenal viewed him as a perfect, high-upside fit for their squad.
Despite the massive financial pull of the English top flight, Real Madrid are ruthlessly slamming the door shut.
Sources confirm that the Spanish giants have directly informed both Arsenal and Chelsea that the Brazilian will be returning to the Bernabeu, as he is firmly part of their first-team plans for next season.
Club president Florentino Perez still fiercely maintains his belief that Madrid signed the absolute best young player in world football, effectively turning any potential exit into a total non-starter.
He genuinely believes that proving himself on the grandest stage with Los Blancos is the best way to secure his international future, and he wants at least one more solid opportunity to establish himself as a regular.
Real Madrid are simply not in the business of losing control over their most prized young assets.
Inter President Beppe Marotta confirms Manuel Akanji will be bought outright from Manchester City and ‘with all due respect for Cesc Fabregas, but Cristian Chivu was our ideal candidate.’
The Nerazzurri are celebrating their 21st Serie A title, the first to be achieved with Marotta as President, because he was only the director general when they last lifted the trophy in 2024.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“This is a glorious club that is accustomed to winning, so it is important that we won the title three times in five years with three different coaches,” Marotta told Radio Sportiva.
“It means we have created a winning sporting model.”
Why Inter picked Chivu for new era
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu and Federico Dimarco celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Chivu was chosen after Simone Inzaghi asked to walk away just hours after losing the Champions League Final 5-0 to Paris Saint-Germain, as he had already agreed terms with Al-Hilal.
It was reported at the time that they had first approached Como for Fabregas, then turned to Chivu after being told he was not available.
“Inzaghi made the decision to try something different, so we asked ourselves which name to propose,” insisted Marotta.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale fans display a banner featuring Cristian Chivu during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We evaluated Chivu as the person who perfectly fit the profile. A coach is a crucial figure and, with all due respect for Fabregas, Chivu represents the ideal candidate because he knows what it means to play and win with Inter.
“He already had Serie A experience and took Parma to safety, so this is why we chose him. It’s true he didn’t have a lot of experience coaching, but we wanted to show courage with this choice.
“Now he is a winning coach who can stay at Inter for many years.”
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with his Head Coach, Cristian Chivu, during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Before taking the Parma job mid-season, Chivu had been working in the Inter youth academy as a coach, where he got to work with Francesco Pio Esposito.
That proved extremely useful when the youngster impressed at the Club World Cup.
“He asked us to keep Pio Esposito in the squad, another thing we are proud of.”
Meanwhile, it is confirmed that Akanji will be bought outright from Manchester City, as there was a clause in the loan activating the purchase option in case of the Scudetto victory.
“When we negotiated the loan, we did add an option to buy apart from the Scudetto too. We have great respect for him as a player and a man, so he will continue to be in our squad,” concluded the Inter President.
Paolo Vanoli admits Fiorentina still look ‘fragile’ after a 4-0 defeat to Roma, but mustn’t forget how far they’ve come. ‘It really was a catastrophe when I arrived.’
It is entirely possible that Fiorentina started the match breathing a sigh of relief, because just minutes before taking to the field, they heard that Cremonese had lost 2-1 at home to Lazio.
That almost guarantees that the Tuscans are safe from the threat of relegation, a remarkable achievement considering they were rock bottom when Vanoli took the job.
Vanoli sees same Fiorentina issues
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Jack Harrison of ACF Fiorentina and Wesley of AS Roma battle for possession of the ball during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“The fact is, we switched off completely after their first goal, also thanks to a great performance from Roma, so we must congratulate them this evening.”
The Viola looked shell-shocked in the opening minutes at the Stadio Olimpico, going 2-0 down within 17 minutes with a Gianluca Mancini free header and Wesley sweeping in, then Mario Hermoso’s tap-in and another header by Niccolò Pisilli completed the 4-0 rout.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Wesley of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“We’ve had a great run to get here, we’ve got to keep our heads up, because mistakes happen and at times this fragility comes back out, like it did against Udinese.”
When already 3-0 down, the Fiorentina coach took a risk and introduced youth team striker Riccardo Braschi, who within 60 seconds had thumped the base of the upright.
Considering Moise Kean and Roberto Piccoli are out injured, could the teenager get more opportunity for the rest of this season?
“I would’ve been happier for him if he had scored, but we had many young players with us this season and I’ve always tried to give them a chance. You need to let these lads grow, he is working hard in training and showed some of what he can do tonight.”
Braschi replaced Albert Gudmundsson at half-time, who continues to look like a shadow of the player who was signed from Genoa.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina passes the ball while under pressure from Bryan Cristante of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“It is not all his fault, because he’s been moved around in a few different positions lately. If he was supporting a centre-forward, it would go better for him, but we were in an emergency situation and he has been helping out,” insisted Vanoli.
“I think he played well against Sassuolo and if he had scored, people might’ve evaluated his performance differently.”
Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici said before kick-off that he would sit down with Vanoli to discuss the future after safety had been secured, as it remains unlikely that he will stay on as coach.
“We’ll discuss it once we are guaranteed safety. I said when I arrived that avoiding relegation was going to be our Scudetto, we are nearly there and just need that final push to close the situation completely.
“We must be focused exclusively on the present and the remaining games,” added Vanoli.
If he was replaced after climbing the table in difficult circumstances, would he consider it an injustice?
“Absolutely not! A club has to make its evaluations, and when I arrived everyone was frightened by the prospect of relegation, it really was a catastrophe. We had four points and nobody had managed to avoid the drop with zero victories in the first 11 rounds.
“The job is not done, then the club and I too will evaluate for the future. As I’ve always said, I would be happy to continue the process,” concluded the coach.
Matheus Cunha has hinted that Casemiro could still make a U-turn and stay at Manchester United next season, despite months of speculation linking the veteran midfielder with a summer exit to the MLS.
The Brazilian forward, who recently helped United secure Champions League qualification with a 3-2 victory over Liverpool, has dropped a significant hint that the former Real Madrid star’s time at Old Trafford might not be over just yet.
While Casemiro has been widely expected to join David Beckham’s Inter Miami at the end of the current campaign, Cunha believes there is still a chance for a final twist.
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‘You never know’: Cunha drops Casemiro U-turn hint
Speaking after United’s recent success, Cunha was vocal about the influence his compatriot has on the squad.
“I play with him in the national team and I know how important he is. He’s an amazing guy. And yeah, to have this guy in the dressing room is a privilege,” Cunha stated (quotes via The Mirror).
Addressing the rumors of an impending departure, Cunha added:
“We don’t know in the end how it is with his contract, and then of course we, everyone, hopes there’s a little bit more. Of course, I know it’s harder than we talked about, but yeah, in the end, you never know.”
These comments come at a time when Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS sporting team are reportedly looking to streamline the wage bill.
However, Cunha’s public plea highlights the value the 34-year-old still brings to a side that has looked rejuvenated in recent months.
Casemiro has become a massive player for Man United under Michael Carrick
A major factor in the potential U-turn is the midfielder’s soaring form under interim boss Michael Carrick.
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Since Carrick took the reins in mid-January, Casemiro has looked like a player transformed, forming a brilliant partnership with Kobbie Mainoo, providing defensive stability and crucial goals.
Casemiro has been the heartbeat of United’s late-season surge. And while the player has himself recently stated that his decision to leave is ‘made and done‘, the growing bond between the player, the coaching staff, and the fans, who recently serenaded the Brazilian with chants of ‘one more year’, could perhaps force a reconsideration.
In a match that pulsated with intensity, City appeared to be cruising after Doku’s first-half opener.
However, the game was turned on its head in a chaotic second-half spell. A brace from Thierno Barry and a powerful header from Jake O’Brien left Pep Guardiola’s side staring at a defeat that would have handed the momentum firmly to Arsenal.
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Erling Haaland scores straight from kick-off after Everton’s third goal
With the Everton faithful still celebrating Barry’s second and Everton’s third in the 81st minute, Manchester City produced an instantaneous response.
Straight from the ensuing kick-off, the ball was worked to Mateo Kovacic, who clipped a sublime pass over the Toffees’ backline.
Erling Haaland, showing the predatory instincts that have defined his season, latched onto the ball and deftly chipped an advancing Jordan Pickford.
The goal, timed just seconds after the restart, silenced the stadium and provided the spark for a desperate City onslaught in the final minutes.
Just MOMENTS after conceding, Haaland has got a goal for Manchester City to make it 3-2 ? pic.twitter.com/eLSnEUvk4Z
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 4, 2026
Jeremy Doku scores 97th minute stunner to make it 3-3
As the clock ticked into the seventh minute of stoppage time, City’s persistence finally paid off.
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Doku, who scored the opener with a left-footed curler was at it again in the last minute of the game.
As the ball fell to him from a 96th minute corner, the winger cut inside from the left wing, weaving past two tired Everton defenders before unleashing a magnificent curling strike that bypassed the outstretched hand of Pickford and nestled into the top corner.
It was a goal of pure individual brilliance that secured a 3-3 draw and rescued what could prove to be a vital point in the race for the trophy.
Advantage Arsenal but a draw keeps Man City’s hopes alive
The result leaves Arsenal with a five-point lead at the top of the table following their 3-0 victory over Fulham.
However, with City still holding a game in hand, the title race remains within reach if they can navigate their remaining fixtures without further slip-ups.
But as things stand, if Arsenal do not drop any more points in their last three games, they will be champions
Gian Piero Gasperini insists he always knew Roma could get back into the hunt for the top four after hammering Fiorentina 4-0. ‘We cannot afford a mistake, but we’re in good shape.’
It was a dominant performance at the Stadio Olimpico, as the Giallorossi were already 3-0 up by half-time thanks to Gianluca Mancini’s free header, Wesley, and Mario Hermoso.
The 4-0 scoreline was rounded out after the break by Niccolò Pisilli on a Donyell Malen assist, the Dutchman hitting the woodwork twice.
Gasperini always had faith in Roma
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal with teammate Matias Soule during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“We’ve changed our attack since midway through the season, so scored many more than in the first half, though we also conceded quite a few more too,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.
“It was good to score with four different players and some good moves. We are in a good period of form, though games are all very balanced and difficult, we know that we cannot afford a mistake to still have a chance, but we are in good shape.”
The coach always believed in their ability to get back into the hunt for fourth.
“I saw that we had the possibility of getting players back, that with a complete team we could get a run of results and had much stronger potential.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina passes the ball while under pressure from Bryan Cristante of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
This result means Roma are now just one point behind fourth-placed Juventus, and within three of Milan in third, so the fight for Champions League qualification is blown wide open.
Como are also still in the running, as they are in sixth place on 62 points, just two behind the Giallorossi.
“This is a very strong squad, above all I never had to keep a tight grip on them, because from the first day I arrived they were fully focused. I never had a problem with their mentality, and the response seen in recent weeks has been even more determined.
“There is great unity between myself and the players, we will try to achieve a target that we wanted strongly from the start.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Donyell Malen of AS Roma is challenged by Marin Pongracic of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The arrival of Malen in January from Aston Villa has undoubtedly transformed the squad, but the future of the Roma attack is looking very uncertain, especially as Paulo Dybala’s contract is running down.
“We were missing Dybala and Soulé for long periods this season due to injury, El Shaarawy was out for a while too, we were haemorrhaging strikers for a while, including long-term absentees like Dovbyk and Ferguson who fell off the radar,” added Gasperini.
“Despite everything, these lads gave their all in every game, so I cannot fault their attitude, and today they seem stronger than ever. There are three games to play, we know that we have to achieve the maximum and hope someone else slips up.”
Manu Kone made his return to the starting XI today for the first time since a muscular injury in mid-March.
“For long spells, this team had the best defensive record in Europe. We lost a few players and paid a price for that, but we’re starting to get everyone back now, the team that we had at the start plus Malen. In these conditions, obviously it is easier to get results.”
Considering representatives of the Friedkin family were in the stands today, is Gasperini discussing how to improve this squad for next season?
“As I said, I am focused on the present, then the moment will come when we can talk about the future.”
The race for Champions League qualification could go down to the wire, as there are now only five points separating Milan, Juventus, Roma and Como in the Serie A table.
The top four go into the Champions League from Serie A, and while Inter are guaranteed their spot in first place and Napoli have a fairly healthy lead, the other two are going to be very tight.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – APRIL 17: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks on during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Como 1907 at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on April 17, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Week 35 fixtures have completely transformed the situation, as Milan lost to Sassuolo, while Juventus, Napoli and Como all played stalemates.
Napoli now have 70 points, Milan 67, Juventus 65, Roma 64, and Como 62.
Let’s take a look at the remaining Serie A fixtures for what could be a battle to the end.
Serie A fixtures
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Roma swept Fiorentina aside for a comfortable 4-0 victory that put them one point off fourth-placed Juventus, but the Viola can feel safe from relegation anyway.
The Giallorossi suddenly found themselves right back in the race for Champions League spots after Juventus, Milan, Napoli and Como stalled. Manu Kone returned for his first start since March 19, with Paulo Dybala only fit for the bench, missing suspended Neil El Aynaoui, injured Lorenzo Pellegrini, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson.
The Viola were without Moise Kean, Roberto Piccoli, Niccolò Fortini and Tariq Lamptey, though Robin Gosens and Fabiano Parisi returned. As Cremonese lost in the early kick-off, the Tuscans were practically safe from relegation.
Donyell Malen took on a crowd of defenders and his shot was deflected off Luca Ranieri to loop up onto the top of the crossbar. Roma scored from the resulting Niccolò Pisilli corner, which found Gianluca Mancini unmarked for the glancing header from six yards.
The second goal came soon after, as Pisilli went on the counter, it was spread from right to left via Matias Soulé and Mario Hermoso until Wesley swept in first-time with the inside of the right boot from just inside the area.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Wesley of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Fiorentina were extremely sluggish, as Manu Kone brushed past Nicolò Fagioli to pull back from the by-line for Hermoso’s easiest of tap-ins from a couple of yards.
Malen tested David De Gea at the near post, but the Viola started to wake up towards half-time, as the Fagioli volley was deflected over for a corner.
Fiorentina made a triple change at half-time, including youth team striker Riccardo Braschi, who within 60 seconds had fired his shot onto the base of the upright.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Donyell Malen of AS Roma is challenged by Marin Pongracic of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma also came close when Malen took on three defenders, his finish was deflected and De Gea fingertipped it onto the crossbar.
Fiorentina struggled to get a ball clear, until Malen stood it up with a trivela cross off the outside of the right boot for Pisilli’s header at the back post.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal with teammate Matias Soule during the Serie A match between AS Roma and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Robinio Vaz didn’t react quickly enough to get on the end of a Zeki Celik low cross-shot.
Maurizio Sarri continued to cast doubts over his Lazio future ahead of the Coppa Italia Final. ‘I’ll talk to the club and we’ll see if we can respect this contract to the end.’
CREMONA, ITALY – MAY 04: Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio ceòebrates after scoring the 1-1 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SS Lazio at Stadio Giovanni Zini on May 04, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The Aquile consolidated eighth place in Serie A with this evening’s last-gasp victory away to Cremonese, as Gustav Isaksen and Tijjani Noslin turned it around after the Federico Bonazzoli opener.
It is perhaps a better result that Sarri had expected when he started the season with a transfer embargo, then saw some big players sold in January.
Sarri not sure of Lazio status
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Maurizio Sarri head coach SS Lazio prior the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“Our objective since the start of the season was to work in order to help improve a squad that had only the very smallest chance of getting into the race for Europe,” Sarri told DAZN Italia.
“Amid a thousand difficulties, I can say that today we are a different type of team, thanks to that progress. I don’t know if this will be the foundations for the future, that is not up to me.”
The coach also spoke later in a press conference and was asked outright if he will remain at Lazio next term.
“I am here for Cremonese-Lazio,” was his reply. “There are another four games to go, one of which is extremely important. Our minds are only on those.
“After that, we will sit down and talk with the club, then we’ll see if we can respect this contract to the end.”
Meanwhile, Sarri was furious with the Lega Serie A organisers for scheduling the Derby della Capitale at 12.30 local time.
“At the start of the season, we played the derby in 37 degree heat, now they are making us play in May at midday. It is an insult to the city of Rome, to two big clubs, and to the fans, so someone has to pay for that.
“I hope they won’t make us play at that time, and someone should resign just for proposing it. I can tell you now, if they do, I won’t turn up for press interviews in protest. Ask the Lega Serie A why they didn’t make Inter and Milan play at that time.”
Marc Guehi has made one of the worst howlers you’ll see as he gifts a goal to Everton, who are now level.
A through ball is played for Thierno Barry, who in an offside position when the ball is played.
But Geuhi, who is total control of his actions, the decides to back pass the ball to the keeper at which point the attacker goes from offside to an onside position.
Barry intercepts the pass and finishes it past Donnarumma to make it 1-1.
The goal is initially disallowed as offside but after a VAR check, the referee’s decision is overturned and the goal stands.
Watch the mistake below:
Thierno Barry capitalises on a misplaced pass from Marc Guéhi and Everton are level! ? pic.twitter.com/ArEofUhToh
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 4, 2026
Second-half collapse as Everton turn the game around
The goal from Barry started a full blow Manchester City collapse as Everton have gone on to score two more goals in quick succession to make it 3-1.
Five minutes after the Guehi disaster, Everton win a corner. Garner whips in a cross from the corner and Jake O’Brien simply heads home to make it 2-1.
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 4, 2026
And eight minutes later, another mistake at the back leads to another Everton goal.
Merlin Rohl beats Mateo Kovacic and appears to take a shot which deflects and falls kindly to Thierno Barry to tap home his second of the night and Everton’s third.
"They are seeing their title ambitions vaporise here!"
Cremonese now need a miracle to avoid relegation to Serie B, as their defeat to Lazio means Genoa are safe, Cagliari and Fiorentina practically too, so only Lecce are within reach.
LECCE, ITALY – MARCH 08: Santiago Pierotti US Lecce scores his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and US Cremonese at Stadio Via del Mare on March 08, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
That result mathematically guaranteed that both Pisa and Hellas Verona are going down to Serie B this summer, leaving just one spot remaining.
That will be a straight fight between Cremonese and Lecce, but the gap has opened up to four points with just three rounds left to play.
Cremonese hot favourites for relegation
CREMONA, ITALY – MAY 04: Youssef Maleh of US Cremonese and Nuno Tavares of SS Lazio fight for the ball during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SS Lazio at Stadio Giovanni Zini on May 04, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
At the very most, these teams would go into a play-off, but they can practically breathe easy at this stage.
Going into the final three rounds, Cremonese need to host doomed Pisa, visit Udinese and conclude at home to Como.
Lecce will welcome Juventus, play away to Sassuolo, and their last game is at home with Genoa.
PISA, ITALY – MAY 1: Lameck Banda of US Lecce celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Lecce at Arena Garibaldi on May 1, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
When it comes to Serie A relegation, if two teams are locked together, they go into a play-off over two legs.
If more than two teams are on the same points, then a mini-league is drawn up of their head-to-head results, and the bottom two head into the play-offs.
Cremonese were heartbroken in stoppages as Lazio turned the game around with Gustav Isaksen and Tijjani Noslin to leave the hosts four points adrift of safety.
The situation was increasingly desperate for the hosts, who risked being left four points adrift of safety. They had one point from four rounds, with Faris Moumbagna still injured, and Jamie Vardy back in the squad. The Aquile reached the Coppa Italia Final, but Matteo Cancellieri sat out a ban, with Danilo Cataldi, Ivan Provedel and Samuel Gigot injured, plus Kenneth Taylor, Mattia Zaccagni and Mario Gila not fully fit.
Oliver Provstgaard’s header on a Zaccagni free kick flashed inches wide, but Cremonese were forced to change injured Federico Baschirotto after a muscular strain in his right leg.
The hosts took the lead with a goal against the run of play, as Federico Bonazzoli hit a sudden snapshot from outside the box and it took Edoardo Motta by surprise at the base of the near post, with a howler from the goalkeeper.
CREMONA, ITALY – MAY 04: Federico Bonazzoli of US Cremonese celebrates with coach Marco Giampaolo after scoring the 1-0 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SS Lazio at Stadio Giovanni Zini on May 04, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Alessio Zerbin failed to make the most of an error when Provstgaard’s clearance ricocheted off Patric into his path, and Bonazzoli’s acrobatic attempt was smothered by Motta.
Nicolò Rovella came on for the restart, his first appearance since suffering a fractured clavicle on February 21, and Alessio Romagnoli nodded a corner into the arms of Emil Audero.
CREMONA, ITALY – MAY 04: Youssef Maleh of US Cremonese and Nuno Tavares of SS Lazio fight for the ball during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SS Lazio at Stadio Giovanni Zini on May 04, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Lazio equalised with a classic counter-attack, as Nuno Tavares intercepted a corner inside his own penalty area and ran the entire length of the pitch, rolling across for Tijjani Noslin to then find Gustav Isaksen, sweeping in first-time.
CREMONA, ITALY – MAY 04: Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio scores their first goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SS Lazio at Stadio Giovanni Zini on May 04, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Bonazzoli didn’t make the most of another Motta error playing out from the back, while Provstgaard threw himself in the path of a Vardy strike.
Motta got down to parry a sudden Warren Bondo screamer from distance, but he made a desperate fingertip save on Bondo’s snooker shot in the 90th minute, Adam Marusic bravely throwing himself in the way to prevent a tap-in on the rebound.
Incredibly, it was Lazio who scored moments later when Noslin completed a give and go with Boulaye Dia to curl a wonderful right-foot finish into the far top corner from just inside the box.
The midfielder is widely expected to leave Bergamo at the end of the season, especially as his current contract only runs to June 2027, so time is running out to organise an extension.
It is also no secret that there are two clubs particularly eager to secure his services in the summer, namely Atletico Madrid and Manchester United.
Ederson caught between two clubs
BERGAMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Ederson of Atalanta BC in action challenges for the ball with Vitinha of Genoa FC during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Genoa CFC at Gewiss Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
However, Pedullà points out that the Spaniards are still a very long way off agreeing a fee with Atalanta, because the proposal is just €30m plus bonuses.
If Manchester United can match the personal terms proposed by Atleti and also increase the offer for Atalanta to €40m, then the matter is far from a foregone conclusion.
This could be a big crossroads in the campaign, because as Juventus and Como were both held to draws, it gives Roma the opportunity to close within a point of fourth place and Champions League qualification.
Neil El Aynaoui is suspended, with Lorenzo Pellegrini, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson injured, plus Manu Kone, Zeki Celik and Bryan Zaragoza not at 100 per cent.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 15: Matias Soule of AS Roma gestures during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Como 1907 at Stadio Olimpico on December 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Paulo Dybala had been tipped for a return to the starting XI for the first time since January 25, making his comeback as a substitute in the 2-0 win away to Bologna, but he is again on the bench.
It’s barely been possible to see the front three of Malen, Dybala and Soulé start together.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Fiorentina are practically safe, but want one more push to be absolutely sure of escaping the relegation zone after a seven-round unbeaten Serie A run.
Their last two were stalemates against Sassuolo and Lecce, but Moise Kean, Roberto Piccoli, Niccolò Fortini and Tariq Lamptey are all still injured.
Robin Gosens and Fabiano Parisi are back in the squad, but Albert Gudmundsson has to be a False 9 with Jack Harrison and Manor Solomon in support.
Cesc Fabregas learned so much from the coaches he worked with, crediting Antonio Conte, Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, but above all Arsene Wenger. ‘Conte was a big shock.’
The Como coach is only 39 years old and hung up his boots in 2023, going straight into management with the Italian club in Serie B.
In Calcio, there is a battle between so-called Giochisti and Risultatisti, those who want to focus on playing good football, and those who say the result is all that truly matters. He is firmly in the first camp.
Fabregas not just about the result
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I coach the way that I feel. I love the game. If I coach only to get results, I will not do it. I don’t have the necessity to do it,” Fabregas told Telegraph Sport.
“I do it because of the passion and because I want to do it my way. You know, of course, you need to adapt, depending on the group of players that you have.
“But, at the end of the day, you have some beliefs. I could not coach long ball, second ball. Why? Because you need to believe in what you do. You can win in any way, as long as you convince the players and you convince everyone that this is the right way.
“But I have my beliefs. If you want to play long ball, second ball, I’m sorry I’m not your guy, because I don’t feel it. So I will not be able to transmit the fire.”
He is trying to adapt all that he learned over 20 years as a player and brings that to this new stage of his career, trying also to avoid the errors he witnessed in the past.
That came from a little black book he started when playing for Arsenal, updating throughout his time at various clubs.
COMO, ITALY – AUGUST 24: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on August 24, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I started the book when I was 22 or 23, before going to Barcelona, and then I just kept adding to it during my career,” continued Fabregas.
“I referred back to it at the beginning because everything was new. But now, with my experience, every time I’m more confident about what I do. If I’m unsure about something, I could sneak a look and pick a little bit of it, but not so often now.
“The biggest chapters are probably about Arsene, because everything was new, and Conte, because, for me, he was a big shock. Everything was different.”
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte (L) greets player Cesc Fabregas (R) at the end of the English Premier League soccer match Chelsea vs Swansea at Stamford Bridge, London, Britain, 25 February 2017. EPA/WILL OLIVER EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications
Conte and Fabregas met at the weekend in a 0-0 Serie A draw between Como and Napoli, having worked together for two years at Chelsea.
“It was the first time someone was telling me where I need to pass the ball. The way he dealt with things, he was very, very tough in certain things. So he made me see a lot of new things and also he learned to trust me.”
The coach he still keeps in touch with the most is Wenger from the early days at Arsenal, who along with Thierry Henry and David Dien have been in the stands to cheer on Como.
“Arsene sends me messages after games, even when we lose or when we win after good performances. He gives me a lot of courage,” concluded Fabregas.
Silvio Berlusconi’s former colleague Fedele Confalonieri blasted the current Milan set-up, with everyone from owner Gerry Cardinale to ‘fake champion’ Rafael Leao.
It feels like a very long way from the success of Berlusconi’s Milan, who over 30 years became the most successful club side on the planet.
Among those at his side during that time was Confalonieri, who is now the President of Berlusconi’s media company Mediaset.
While attending the launch of a book about the club, Confalonieri spoke to reporters and did not hold back on the current state of the Rossoneri.
Confalonieri unimpressed with modern Milan
MONZA, ITALY – AUGUST 13: Silvio Berluconi and CEO of AC Monza Adriano Galliani attend the Serie A match between AC Monza and Torino FC at Stadio Brianteo on August 13, 2022 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images)
“Leao is a fake champion. He looks like he might be a champion, but a champion plays 90 minutes every game. How much does Leao play, really?
“Luka Modric, now there is a champion, he plays every minute, even at age 40. He is someone who won the Ballon d’Or in the era of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.”
Milan have been through a few owners since Berlusconi sold the club, but Confalonieri is unimpressed with current patron Cardinale.
“A bank owns a football club, what do they care about winning the Scudetto? This is the point. If you are fortunate enough, like Inter now, to have a great President in charge like Beppe Marotta… If we’d had Adriano Galliani at the helm, we might’ve stood a chance.”
When told that the man making the decisions at Milan is Giorgio Furlani, the response was not positive.
“I haven’t met him, and as a Milanista, I really don’t care to.”
Cesc Fabregas explains why he is in no rush to leave Como, even if he’d like to work in the Premier League ‘in 12, 15 years,’ because he has control. ‘I take all the football decisions, I designed the gym.’
The tactician has taken Como from Serie B to the top flight, the Coppa Italia semi-final and now challenging for a Champions League qualifying place in the space of three years.
It has attracted so much attention that there were reports he had been approached by Chelsea and Arsenal, two of his former clubs as a player, but insists he is in no rush to leave the Stadio Sinigaglia.
Fabregas eager to see Como develop
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas and FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu look on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I’ve always been very, very clear about it. I felt it as a player, I feel it as a coach, as a fan. But [Jose] Mourinho told me one day when I was at Chelsea ‘I still have 30 years to work’. So I could be here for 10 years, and you can still go to the Premier League in 12, 15 years.
“Football is so unpredictable, it changes in one second. One day, you are the best. The day after, you are the worst. So let’s enjoy the moment. I like to enjoy the moment. It’s beautiful what we are living here. Let’s see what the future holds.”
Seeing the speed at which some clubs go through managers, he has even more reason to stick it out with Como, where he represents far more than just a coach.
When he joined as a player in 2022, the Spaniard also invested as a minority shareholder, and has been given the keys to the club by billionaire owners the Hartono family.
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 03: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas issues instructions to his players Anastasios Douvikas and Martin Baturina during the Coppa Italia match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 03, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I take all the football decisions. The sporting director, he’s day-to-day with me and we see football the same way. The signings, we work with data, we have our scouting and stuff, but it needs to be something that I believe in. It needs to be a player that I’m convinced about.
“I’m so happy and lucky that we have a president that trusts me a lot and has given me the confidence to go and take all the football decisions. That, for me, is really important.”
Fabregas repeatedly said that he used to open the gates of the training ground at 6am, but goes into further detail of how much Como have built to follow his vision.
“The gym I designed with the architect. I designed the glass on the front. I learned it from Arsène [Wenger]. I remembered that the gym needs to be looking at the game on the pitches for the injured players.
“All the food comes here, it was an old building, and I did it the way that I feel is right. And all the pitches, everything. At the stadium, I said we need a bigger pitch because we are a team that wants the ball, we have possession. So I made the pitch bigger.
“In Italy, people were saying ‘no, no, why 65 metres? Make it 63 because that means you can defend better’. So it’s a bit the concept of you look at football in one way or another.”
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Nico Paz of Como 1907 talks to Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907 during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Now that they are on the verge of qualifying for Europe, Fabregas can’t wait to see what happens next at Como.
“We started this journey, not on the ground floor, but at minus 10. So we’re ahead of schedule and we are in the early days. I feel that this club has so much potential, but this is what I was given. You know, this is the beauty of this project, starting from nothing to make one day a European club.”
“I’m enjoying what I’m doing. I’m in a beautiful place with amazing people who let me work and they trust me. Every day, I feel like I am at university because every day I need to make a crazy amount of decisions all over the club. And, for me, this is good because I’m learning faster than maybe doing it another way.”
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Some had suggested Fabregas would make a good Italy coach, but this is another thing he is in absolutely no hurry to experience.
“If you ask me now ‘do you want to coach a national team?’ I will tell you ‘no’. Because I love coaching. I love being every day on the grass. I love being with the young players. I love the individual sessions. I love it all.”
Marcus Thuram caught the eye with some special sunglasses during Inter’s Scudetto celebration and warns Hakan Calhanoglu they’re here to stay. ‘I’ll wear them in the World Cup.’
The Nerazzurri needed only a point last night against Parma to secure the Scudetto, but went better with a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
The France international took centre stage during the title celebrations on the pitch at San Siro with some snazzy shades, and was still wearing them the day after during an Instagram Livestream.
He was chatting with teammate Calhanoglu, who asked ‘Did you sleep with those on?’
Thuram insisted people haven’t understood his commitment to the bit.
“From now on, I will train, play, do everything with these on. You have seen the last of my eyes, it’s over! At the World Cup, if I go, I’ll be wearing these glasses. I’ll go hey, Mbappé, pass me the ball…”
The organised supporter groups of both Lazio and Inter Milan will stay away from the Stadio Olimpico for Saturday’s Serie A clash between the two sides, with Lazio’s ultras continuing their protest against the club’s ownership while Inter’s groups have chosen to join them in solidarity.
According to Radio Laziale, via LaLazioSiamoNoi, representatives of Lazio’s organised supporter groups confirmed the decision, explaining that both sets of fans will instead gather together at Ponte Milvio ahead of kick-off. The boycott forms part of a wider protest that has characterised the second half of Lazio’s season.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 04: A detailed view of empty seats as fans are currently boycotting their matches in protest prior to the Coppa Italia match at Olimpico Stadium on March 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lazio ultras eye Coppa Italia final as priority amid Serie A boycott
The groups were keen to stress, however, that the decision is also partly tactical, with the Coppa Italia final against Inter just four days away, staying outside is seen as a way of easing tension and building unity ahead of the Stadio Olimpico showpiece.
“For the final we will be inside the stadium,” a supporter group representative said.
“The decision to stay outside for the league match, together with Inter’s organised groups, was also taken to enjoy the build-up together. A way of lowering the tension and anxiety four days before the Coppa Italia final. It will be a chance to be together and pass on some communications to the fans present. On Wednesday we will need great clarity and everyone pulling together. I’ll say it now: get in early on Wednesday.”
Christian Pulisic could be set for a return to English football this summer, with Manchester United reportedly identifying the United States international as a priority target and AC Milan valuing the attacker at around €60 million.
According to Calciomercato.it, via MilanNews24, United have moved decisively for Pulisic, preferring him over other targets including Rafael Leão, with whom a swap deal involving Joshua Zirkzee had previously been mooted before falling through.
The Red Devils are said to be attracted by the American’s versatility, with his ability to operate as a winger, attacking midfielder or second striker particularly appealing to the club’s recruitment team.
ITALY – APRIL 11: Christian Pulisic reacts after seeing his team concede a third goal during the Serie A match at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan in no rush to sell Pulisic despite Manchester United interest
Milan, however, are not under pressure to sell and are reportedly minded to wait before entering serious negotiations. The club are understood to want to monitor Pulisic’s performances at the World Cup with the United States national team, with the hope that a strong tournament could increase his market value beyond the current €60 million asking price.
A meeting between the two clubs is expected at the end of the season to establish both the player’s wishes and United’s genuine intentions. Despite Milan’s struggles in front of goal in recent months, Pulisic remains one of their most valuable assets and the club have no intention of letting him leave on the cheap.
A move to Old Trafford would represent a return to England for Pulisic, who spent four years at Chelsea before joining Milan in 2023.
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti admits the Bianconeri need ‘quality’ in tight spaces, amid speculation that the Bianconeri want both Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders from Manchester City.
Juventus will be looking to add more quality to the team, as Bianconeri coach Spalletti clarified on Sunday after a disappointing 1-1 home draw against already-relegated Hellas Verona.
Spalletti explains what Juventus need in 2026 summer transfer window
Juventus still have a three-point lead over fifth-placed Como, but Roma will move just one point behind the Old Lady if they beat Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico tonight.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Genoa CFC at Allianz Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
During his post-match interviews, Spalletti clearly explained what the club should be looking for in the summer.
“We’re lacking a bit of real quality in tight spaces, in that area of the attacking midfield,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia via Gazzetta.
“What we are missing is an attacking midfielder who is good in tight spaces, because that area in front of the opponents’ penalty box becomes like a swamp, and if things don’t come off, you start forcing plays, which increases frustration and difficulties.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Juventus have already begun negotiations with Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva, who won’t extend his expiring contract with the Premier League giants and is therefore available on a free transfer.
According to Football Insider, the Bianconeri have also set their sights on Bernardo Silva’s teammate Reijnders, a former Milan star, who has been struggling for playing time in his first season at Etihad Stadium, especially in recent weeks.
Spalletti has also asked for greater quality in central defence, suggesting the club should try to sign a ball-playing centre-back.
“Certain traits shape the team,” he concluded.
“We have Bremer and Kelly, who are two excellent defenders individually, strong on duels, physical and solid defensively, but perhaps they give something away when it comes to building from the back.”
Inter Milan are already planning their summer transfer business after clinching the Scudetto, with president Beppe Marotta having made clear the club intend to strengthen their Italian core with young, homegrown talent, though departures will shape how aggressively they can move.
Marotta set out his vision clearly in the aftermath of the title win.
“We have very clear ideas on how to act, thanks also to dialogue with the ownership, who will set the economic guidelines,” he said. “It is important to have a solid core of Italians. We need to continue and look at who the best young Italian players are.”
But who have the Nerazzurri been linked with and how can Marotta realistically strengthen Chivu’s side for the next campaign?
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PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 05: Giuseppe Marotta Chairman of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 05, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Marco Palestra and Giovanni Leoni among Inter summer targets
The name most readily associated with that approach is Marco Palestra. The winger is currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta and has long been admired by Inter, who face the potential departure of Denzel Dumfries this summer.
Palestra fits Marotta’s blueprint precisely, young, Italian, and highly rated. Prising him from Atalanta will not come cheap, however, with his valuation already reported at around €40 million.
Marotta acknowledged the difficulty himself. “Unfortunately he is not ours, but he is a player of great future,” he said. “Alongside young Italians, we will also target experienced foreigners capable of bringing a winning culture.”
With Premier League clubs keen on the Atalanta-owned wing-back, Inter could find themselves quickly priced out of a move, even after comfortably winning Serie A this season.
Giovanni Leoni is another name on the Nerazzurri’s radar.
Inter were keen on the teenage defender last summer before Liverpool moved quickly to sign him, and the connection runs deeper now that Chivu, who coached Leoni at Parma, is in charge at Appiano Gentile.
A serious injury sustained in September kept Leoni out for much of the season, and should Liverpool consider moving him on, Inter are expected to be among the frontrunners.
A return to Italy could be the sensible move for the youngster’s career, away from the pressures of the Premier League.
Leoni has spoken warmly of Chivu’s influence. “When he arrived at Parma we were in a bad way,” the defender said. “He is brilliant at building relationships with players. He would never speak badly of you publicly.”
On the departures side, Francesco Acerbi and Matteo Darmian are both set to leave, while the futures of Stefan de Vrij, also out of contract, and Dumfries remain unresolved. How Inter navigate those exits will go a long way to determining the scale of their summer recruitment.
The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge turned toxic on Monday night as Nottingham Forest fans took full advantage of Chelsea’s collapse.
The first half saw Forest score twice courtesy of Taiwo Awoniyi and Igor Jesus to take a comfortable lead going into the break.
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Chelsea had the chance to reduce to deficit right at the end of the first half with Jesse Derry winning a penalty at a personal cost, Cole Palmer failed to convert it.
And the second half saw Awoniyi seal the win with his second goal of the game, making it 3-0 and sending the visiting supporters into a frenzy.
Nottingham Forest fans mock Chelsea with ‘Tottenham in disguise’ chant
With Forest racing into a commanding 3-0 lead, the travelling supporters were heard chanting “Are you Tottenham in disguise?”, mocking the home crowd during a humiliating night for the Blues.
The chant carried extra sting given Chelsea’s long-standing rivalry with Tottenham.
For a club that prides itself on competing at the highest level, comparisons with their North London rivals, especially in such circumstances, only intensified the frustration inside Stamford Bridge.
Forest move six points clear of West Ham
Beyond the banter, the result carries massive implications for the Premier League table.
The 3-1 win moves Nottingham Forest six points clear of West Ham United in the relegation battle with just three games remaining in the season.
Forest supporters could also be heard chanting “we are staying up” as reported by BBC Live.
While mathematically they still need another four points to secure survival, their current form and superior goal difference suggest they will successfully escape relegation.
For Chelsea, the defeat marks a new low in a season characterized by inconsistency and late-season fatigue.
Chelsea’s clash against Nottingham Forest has descended into a full-blown crisis at Stamford Bridge.
While the Blues entered the match as heavy favorites, the first 45 minutes have been nothing short of a catastrophe, compounded by a sickening injury to teenage debutant Jesse Derry just before the interval.
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Jesse Derry stretchered off as Cole Palmer misses penalty
The evening’s primary concern remains the welfare of the 18-year-old winger. In what was his first Premier League start, Derry had been a rare bright spark for a struggling Chelsea side.
However, during a stoppage-time aerial duel in the penalty area, Derry suffered a horrific clash of heads with Forest defender Zach Abbott.
The game was halted for over ten minutes as medical staff from both clubs rushed onto the pitch, eventually resulting in Derry being carried off on a stretcher to a standing ovation from a hushed crowd.
The injury incident actually resulted in a lifeline for the Blues, as referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot following the collision.
In a moment that summed up Chelsea’s luckless half, Palmer, who has been the club’s most reliable asset since joining from Man City, saw his penalty brilliantly saved by Matz Sels.
The miss left the Stamford Bridge faithful in stunned silence, realising that even from twelve yards out, the Blues still can’t score a goal in the Premier League as their league drought continues.
Liam Delap was introduced as a concussion substitute for the stricken Derry, but the psychological blow of the injury and the penalty miss was evident as the teams headed into the tunnel.
Tottenham fans have been given another reason to admire Roberto De Zerbi’s dedication after the Italian was spotted at Stamford Bridge just 24 hours after leading his side to a vital victory over Aston Villa.
Interestingly, he was seen deep in conversation with Chelsea’s director of global recruitment, Sam Jewell, a familiar face from De Zerbi’s successful tenure at Brighton.
The sight of De Zerbi at the Bridge sent a clear message to the Tottenham faithful: the job is far from over.
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 4, 2026
With a crucial trip to West London scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, the manager is leaving nothing to chance.
This “no days off” mentality is exactly what Spurs need right now in order to successfully escape relegation.
By choosing to spend his day off analysing a future opponent rather than resting, De Zerbi is demonstrating a level of preparation and obsession that top managers are known for.
Roberto De Zerbi has made an instant impact at Spurs
Before his appointment, Tottenham had endured a staggering 15-game winless streak that saw them slide dangerously in the bottom three.
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However, back-to-back away victories against Wolves and Aston Villa have transformed the atmosphere at the club.
De Zerbi has not only tightened the defence with the likes of Micky van de Ven and Kevin Danso but has also managed to get the best out of the depleted Spurs side.
As Spurs prepare for their final push to secure Premier League survival, De Zerbi’s hands-on approach is providing the clinical edge they desperately needed.
FIFA President Infantino posted an Instagram story on Sunday night to celebrate Inter’s Scudetto victory.
The Nerazzurri put their hands on their 21st Scudetto in history, beating Parma 2-0 at San Siro on Sunday.
It was a long night of celebrations in Milan, first at the Stadio Mezza and then in Piazza Duomo, where thousands of Nerazzurri supporters were joined by players late at night.
Infantino shared a video of Inter fans celebrating in Piazza Duomo, captioning it with the fans’ favourite motto: ‘Amala.’
Watch: Infantino celebrates Inter’s title victory on Instagram
“I’ve been a total football fan since I was a child. I have many idols. I remember the World Cup in Spain in 1982. Italy won it, with Paolo Rossi and that whole team of great players,” Infantino said in March.
“For me, it was spectacular. I was a 12-year-old boy at the time. That team and that moment are engraved in my heart. I’m also a supporter of Inter. One of my first idols – perhaps not well known in Spain – was Evaristo Beccalossi, a No. 10 who didn’t play in that World Cup or with the national team because the coach had other plans. Inter’s No. 10 made us dream and sometimes… also some things that can’t be said. I remember Alessandro Altobelli scoring a goal in the final. His third goal and the celebration against Germany were spectacular.”
Milan have only won one of their last five Serie A matches, collecting just four points in the process.
Their 2-0 loss to Sassuolo on Sunday risks jeopardising their Champions League place, as the Rossoneri have only five points more than Como with three games remaining, and Roma will move three points behind them if they beat Fiorentina tonight.
With 48 goals scored in 35 matches, Milan are expected to terminate the campaign with the worst scoring record in the last decade.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan reacts after seeing his team concede a third goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MilanNews has reported the worrying numbers for Milan’s strikers in the second part of the campaign.
USMNT star Christian Pulisic has not scored a goal in the last 126 days, being scoreless since December 28, 2025.
January signing Niclas Füllkrug scored his most recent goal on January 18, 2026. Christopher Nkunku has not scored a goal in 69 days (February 3, 2026 against Bologna).
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on after the match during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Santiago Gimenez has spent several months on the sidelines due to an injury and has yet to score a goal in Serie A this term, finding the net for the last time in a league game on May 9, 2025, practically a year ago.
Last but not least, Rafael Leao has not scored a goal since March 1, when the Rossoneri won 2-0 over Cremonese.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Massimiliano Allegri,Head Coach of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Inter have won the 21st Scudetto in their history, and their 2-0 win over Parma on Sunday was followed by a night of celebrations, first at San Siro and then in Piazza Duomo.
Several Inter supporters remained in Milan’s main square all night and, at some point, were joined by some of their idols, including Marcus Thuram and Federico Dimarco.
Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta has addressed speculation linking Alessandro Bastoni with Barcelona, insisting the defender is content at the club despite concrete interest yet to materialise, as the Nerazzurri savour a third Scudetto title in five years.
“He was unlucky in certain episodes. Everyone had their eyes on him. He made that naive mistake against Juventus with the simulation, he was the first to admit it, but we protected him. He is a great champion. I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona, but nothing concrete yet. A player leaves if he expresses the desire to go. At this moment he is happy to be with us and we are happy with him.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Marotta bullish on Inter’s Italian core ahead of title defence
Bastoni’s situation will dominate the summer agenda at Inter, but Marotta was equally forthcoming on broader ambitions.
On strengthening the squad’s Italian nucleus, he said: “Italy produces talent. We want to build a solid core of Italians, some are getting older so it is right to add more. For the Scudetto, you need a core who understands Italian football.”
Marotta also confirmed the Champions League remains a personal obsession.
“I have reached four finals and unfortunately lost them all,” he admitted. “It is something I still want to achieve, but next year we will try to improve in that competition.”
Gleison Bremer has publicly apologised after a costly defensive mistake contributed to Juventus dropping points in a home draw against Verona, with the Brazilian centre-back admitting he should have done better.
Bremer’s error came when he attempted to play out from the back inside his own penalty area, looking to find Pierre Kalulu, but the pass was intercepted by Bradaric.
The Verona winger immediately fed Bowie, who was left unmarked and beat Di Gregorio at his near post to give the visitors the lead.
LEWISBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – JUNE 14: Gleison Bremer #3 of Juventus arrives at the airport prior to the official FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on June 14, 2025 in Lewisburg, West Virginia. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Bremer admits he must do better after Juventus slip-up
Taking to Instagram shortly after the final whistle, the defender offered a direct apology. “Today, due to a miscommunication, the mistake was mine,” Bremer wrote.
“I take full responsibility, no excuses. I should have done better. Now more united than ever, until the end.”
It was not an isolated struggle on the evening. Bremer was reported to have had a difficult night dealing with Bowie throughout, frequently coming off second best in aerial duels and physical battles.
Head coach Luciano Spalletti also addressed the error after the match, acknowledging it as a known limitation in his side’s game.
“Bremer and Kelly are two great defenders in terms of individual quality and in one-v-one duels,” Spalletti said. “But in terms of building from the back they do concede something, these are aspects we have to live with.”
The slip is likely to reignite scrutiny of Bremer’s composure in possession, and will also bring renewed attention to comments the defender made in a press conference weeks earlier.
“At Juventus they have been treading water for six years and that cannot happen,” he said at the time. “It is important to go back to winning. To be considered champions you have to win, and I want to win.”
Cristian Chivu’s assistant coach, Aleksandar Kolarov, mentioned last season’s Champions League Final defeat during a post-match press conference on Sunday: ‘In football, it happens. The other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do.’
The Nerazzurri only needed one draw to win the title with three games to spare, but still secured a victory with goals from Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Football Italia was among the accredited media at San Siro, covering the build-up, the game, and all post-match celebrations.
Inter coach Chivu didn’t speak to reporters at full-time, leaving the stage to his staff members, including assistant coach Kolarov, who answered most of the journalists’ questions.
“We’ve believed in our job from the beginning. The lads were excellent in accepting our requests,” Kolarov said.
“It was easy to work with them. They’ve immediately made themselves available and reacted after a few losses. Let me add a few words about last season’s loss [in the Champions League Final]. In football, it happens.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Aleksandar Kolarov vice-manager of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Journalists say it was a total disaster, but other teams didn’t even get there. Other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do. The lads have already made themselves available. We used their quality, not just in footballing terms. Men make the difference.”
Inter appointed Chivu last summer after seeing Simone Inzaghi by mutual agreement following a 5-0 defeat in the Champions League Final against PSG.
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu shouts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The summer transfer window is rapidly approaching, and Aston Villa are already looking to make some serious moves to strengthen their attacking options.
Unai Emery’s side have proven they belong in the upper echelons of the Premier League, but sustaining that elite level requires relentless, aggressive squad building.
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According to a fresh report from Italian outlet Tuttosport, the Villans are preparing to reignite their long-standing interest in Juventus forward Jonathan David.
After heavily scouting the Canadian international last summer before his move to Italy, the Villa Park hierarchy clearly feels that now is the perfect time to finally bring him to the Midlands.
To say David’s high-profile switch to Turin hasn’t exactly gone according to plan would be a massive understatement.
Jonathan David has failed to meet expectations
Arriving at the Allianz Stadium as one of the most coveted free agents on the market following a brilliant, title-winning spell with Lille in France, huge things were expected of the attacker.
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However, the reality of Italian football has been incredibly harsh. Stifled by tactical adjustments and the immense pressure of wearing the famous Bianconeri shirt, David has managed a highly disappointing return of just eight goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.
For a striker whose game relies heavily on confidence, sharp movement, and lethal finishing, a quick exit after just 12 months might be exactly what he needs to reset his stalling career.
From Juventus’ perspective, moving David on isn’t just about his underwhelming form, it’s about funding a massive, desperate attacking overhaul.
The Italian giants are staring down the barrel of a major crisis, with star striker Dusan Vlahovic inching closer to the exit door.
The Serbian powerhouse could sensationally leave as a free agent when the season concludes, a scenario that would be a catastrophic financial blow to the club.
Because David was signed on a free transfer just a year ago, selling him to a Premier League side like Aston Villa would generate immediate, pure profit on the accounting books.
This crucial cash injection would give the Juventus board the necessary funds to completely refresh their forward line.
Aston Villa are ready to add depth to their attack
So, why are Aston Villa still so incredibly keen on a player who has struggled so badly this year? It all comes down to Unai Emery’s tactical vision.
The Spanish manager demands relentless energy, high-pressing, and tactical versatility from his forwards.
Ollie Watkins has been absolutely phenomenal leading the line, but he simply cannot shoulder the goalscoring burden alone across grueling domestic and European campaigns.
David’s explosive pace and intelligent link-up play, traits he showcased brilliantly during his time in Ligue 1, make him a highly interesting fit for the fast-paced, transitional style of the Premier League.
If Emery can wrap his arm around the Canadian star and help him rediscover the deadly touch he showed in France, this could easily end up being one of the shrewdest pieces of business for Aston Villa.
Inter star Federico Dimarco admits the 2025-26 Serie A title ‘means so much’ after last season’s disappointments and dedicates the Scudetto to ‘those who said I was finished.’
“It’s an amazing feeling. To see Milan coloured in black and blue is special,” the Italian defender told InterTV via FcInter1908.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 17: Federico Dimarco of Inter talks with Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Cagliari Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 17, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It tastes like a restart after the bad disappointments of last season. We have restarted with the team and staff members. We have worked hard and crowned the dream of the 21st Scudetto.
“We are a united team, and we were united in difficult moments too, when we were being beaten from every direction. We always showed up, and now we enjoy this title. It means so much after what happened last year. I dedicate it to all the people who are close to me, especially those who said I was finished at the end of last season.”
Dimarco was among the Inter stars who headed to Piazza Duomo at late light on Sunday to celebrate with the Inter supporters in the city’s main square.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter have won the Scudetto with three games to spare, securing 26 victories in 35 league matches this term.
Last night, they needed just one point to put their hands on the Scudetto, but still secured a 2-0 victory with goals courtesy of Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Tijjani Reijnders could be on the move again just a year after arriving at Manchester City, with fresh reports suggesting the Dutch midfielder may be open to leaving in the coming weeks.
According to Football Insider, several clubs, particularly from Serie A, are monitoring his situation closely, with Juventus among the sides showing interest.
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The potential exit comes as a surprise considering the expectations surrounding his move from AC Milan last summer, a deal believed to be worth around €55 million.
However, football at the highest level can be unpredictable, and his situation at City appears to have shifted quickly.
Reijnders has struggled at Man City this season
Reijnders initially looked like he would settle seamlessly into life in the Premier League.
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He made an immediate impact, scoring and assisting on his debut, a performance that raised hopes he could become a regular figure in Guardiola’s system.
His ability to carry the ball forward, link play, and contribute in advanced areas made him a valuable option in midfield rotations.
However, as the season progressed, his role began to diminish. Increased competition for places, a common challenge at Man City, has limited his opportunities in recent months.
Guardiola’s squad is known for its depth and tactical flexibility, often leaving even high-quality players fighting for consistent minutes.
For Reijnders, this has meant adapting to a more rotational role than initially expected.
Reijnders offers qualities that many teams value, composure in possession, intelligent movement, and the ability to transition play from midfield to attack.
Serie A clubs are taking notice of his potential availability
These attributes have not gone unnoticed, particularly in Italy, where he previously thrived with AC Milan.
Juventus’ interest shows that they are looking to strengthe their midfield options with technically sound players who can control tempo and contribute creatively.
Other Serie A clubs are also believed to be monitoring the situation, sensing an opportunity to sign a player who has plenty to offer at the top level.
For Man City, any decision regarding Reijnders will likely depend on squad balance and long-term planning.
The club has a history of making calculated decisions when it comes to player sales, especially if it allows them to reinvest in areas of need. Financially, recouping a significant portion of the initial transfer fee could make a deal more appealing.
Liverpool and Arsenal could be involved in a transfer battle this summer to sign one of the most wanted attackers in world football.
Bradley Barcola could be one of the more intriguing names to watch this summer, with Liverpool and Arsenal both reportedly keeping close tabs on the Paris Saint-Germain forward.
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According to TEAMtalk, there are early signs that the 23-year-old’s camp is exploring potential opportunities, even though his contract in Paris still runs until 2028.
While PSG are not actively pushing him out, the situation appears fluid and that has alerted several top clubs.
With both Liverpool and Arsenal looking to strengthen their attacking options ahead of next season, Barcola’s profile makes him an attractive target if he becomes available.
Barcola is drawing interest from Liverpool and Arsenal
Barcola has quietly put together a solid campaign, registering 12 goals and seven assists across all competitions.
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Those numbers reflect a player who is growing into his role at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, even if he isn’t always the headline name in PSG’s star-studded attack.
What makes Barcola particularly appealing is his versatility. Comfortable playing on either wing, he combines pace with direct dribbling and a willingness to take on defenders, qualities that are highly valued in the Premier League.
Barcola’s age and skill set fit that profile, offering both immediate contribution and long-term development potential.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are continuing to build depth in their forward line. Mikel Arteta has emphasized the need for rotation and competition across attacking positions, especially with the club competing on multiple fronts.
Adding a player like Barcola would provide flexibility, allowing Arsenal to rotate without a drop in quality.
PSG’s stance remains key to how this situation develops. Reports suggest the club are constantly evaluating their squad structure, particularly as they balance experienced stars with emerging talent.
If the Ligue 1 giants decide to listen to offers, this could quickly turn into a competitive transfer race and one that might shape the attacking options of two Premier League giants heading into next season.
If there were any lingering doubts about Arsenal’s title credentials, Saturday night at the Emirates Stadium firmly put them to bed.
Mikel Arteta’s squad delivered an absolute masterclass, completely dismantling Fulham in a dominant 3-0 victory.
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The win was a massive statement, keeping the Gunners right at the summit of the Premier League with 76 points and establishing a crucial six-point gap over a relentless Manchester City side.
While striker Viktor Gyökeres secured an impressive brace with goals on either side of the half-time break, it was Bukayo Saka’s fine strike that truly captured everyone’s attention.
The sheer quality of Saka’s performance certainly didn’t go unnoticed.
Gary Neville praises Arsenal star Bukayo Saka
Speaking on on NBC Sports, Manchester United legend Gary Neville was quick to dish out the plaudits.
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While Neville has occasionally been critical of Arsenal’s attacking fluidity this season, he couldn’t help but rave about the winger’s top-class impact and backed the team for Premier League glory.
He said: “They looked like they had a little bit of something back with Saka on that right-hand side. Madueke’s a very good player, but Saka’s top-class. It was a very day for Arsenal. They have got to wait and watch Manchester City.”
Neville observed that while Arteta will naturally be thrilled with the comfortable three points, the demanding manager might actually be slightly frustrated that they didn’t score even more to pad their crucial goal difference.
“He will be pleased with the victory and must remind the players to capitalize on their opportunities and be clinical and ruthless,” Neville said.
For Arsenal fans, the stakes are almost unbearably high.
It has been an agonising 22 years since the club last lifted the Premier League trophy, and they are desperate to avoid the heartbreak of finishing as runners-up for a third consecutive season.
The pressure is now firmly shifted back onto Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, who currently hold two games in hand to close that daunting six-point gap.
Their first test is a tricky Monday night trip to Everton.
With Gyökeres banging in the goals and Saka terrorising fullbacks on the right wing, the Gunners possess all the necessary firepower to cross the finish line.
Cristian Chivu has become the first foreign coach to win the Serie A title since José Mourinho in 2010, when the current Inter boss was a player under the Special One at the Stadio Meazza.
Chivu has won the Serie A title in his first season at San Siro and his first full campaign in Italy’s top flight, having previously coached Parma for only 13 matches last term.
PASADENA, CA – JULY 20: Jose Mourinho coach of Inter Milan talks with his team during practice at the Rose Bowl stadium on July 20, 2009 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
The Romanian tactician has become the first foreign coach to win the Scudetto since Mourinho in the 2009-10 campaign.
Back then, Mou not only won the Serie A title but also grabbed a legendary treble, with Chivu as one of the regular starters on that team.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates after during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Since then, only Italian coaches have won the Italian league: Massimiliano Allegri has done it six times, followed by Antonio Conte with five, Maurizio Sarri, Stefano Pioli, Luciano Spalletti and Simone Inzaghi with one each.
List of Serie A title-winning coaches since Mourinho
Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma host Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico tonight, with Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen expected to start up front for the Giallorossi.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 BST) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, and it’s the final round of Serie A Week 35.
Milan, Juventus and Como have dropped points in this round, so Roma have a good chance to move one point behind the Bianconeri in fourth.
Fiorentina, on the other hand, sit 16th with a nine-point lead over 18th-placed Cremonese, who will host Lazio at 18:00 CET.
Roma must cope without the suspended El Aynaoui and the injured Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Bryan Zaragoza.
According to several sources, including Sky Sport Italia, Argentine star Dybala is fit to start up front for the Giallorossi, and so is Manu Koné in central midfield.
The Tuscans have travelled to Florence without Tariq Lamptey, Luis Balbo, Niccolò Fortini, Moise Kean and Roberto Piccoli.
Roma vs. Fiorentina – Where to watch on TV
The match will be shown on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
Inter star Thuram recreated one of Kobe Bryant’s iconic photos on social media while celebrating the club’s 21st Scudetto in the dressing room on Sunday.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Thuram had scored the opening goal in a 2-0 win over Parma, which allowed the Nerazzurri to win the Scudetto with three games to spare.
Right after the match, Thuram posted an Instagram picture showing him with two Scudetto trophies, those he won during his time at the Stadio Meazza.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram, Federico Dimarco, and Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was an edited picture as Inter will only lift the 2025-26 Scudetto trophy after the final matchday, but his pose was a tribute to the iconic picture of NBA legend Kobe Bryant taken in June 2001 after the Los Angeles Lakers had beaten the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5 in Philadelphia.
Old Trafford is still absolutely buzzing after Manchester United pulled off a thrilling 3-2 victory against Liverpool, a result that officially secured their return to the Champions League next season.
It was a classic, high-octane Premier League clash, but amidst all the massive celebrations, there was a brief moment of sheer panic for the Old Trafford faithful.
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Bruno Fernandes, a player who practically never misses a single minute of action, was unexpectedly substituted late in the game.
Given how crucial the Portuguese maestro is to the side, fans immediately feared the worst.
Fernandes actually took a heavy knock and was seen limping away from a tough challenge before the break.
Bruno Fernandes was crucial for Man United vs Liverpool
In typical warrior fashion, he gritted his teeth and played on right until stoppage time, pushing his body to the absolute limit to ensure United got over the line in the chaotic 3-2 win.
However, interim head coach Michael Carrick was quick to shut down any lingering injury fears during his post-match comments.
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Carrick played down the substitution, insisting that pulling Bruno off wasn’t because he succumbed to the earlier knock.
Instead, it was a purely tactical move designed to bring on defender Leny Yoro and lock down the crucial three points.
“To be honest, it was just a minute or so to go and [we wanted] to get Leny on the pitch,” said Carrick, as reported by Manchester Evening News.
“Obviously Joshua came on, Paddy came on and Amad came on as well and there was nothing behind that apart from that.”
Interim boss Carrick has brilliantly steadied the ship and successfully guided the club back into Europe’s elite competition.
With their captain fully committed to the cause and their top-tier status restored, the Red Devils can finally start dreaming of huge European nights under the Old Trafford lights once again.
As for Fernandes, he would be hoping to get the maximum minutes in the remaining matches as he looks to break the assist record in a single Premier League season.
The Portuguese midfielder has 19 assists this season so far and he just needs two more to move ahead of Arsenal legend Thierry Henry and Manchester City icon Kevin De Bruyne to get the most assists in a single season.
Man United will play Sunderland, Nottingham Forest and Brighton in their final three matches of the season.
Manchester City are getting ready for another eventful transfer window.
In the winter transfer window this year, the Premier League giants made a statement by signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace and Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.
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They are ready to spend big in the summer transfer window and they have already identified their primary target and it is a midfielder.
According to respected transfer guru Nicolo Schira, Pep Guardiola’s side are reportedly putting the final touches on a “huge bid” to lure Nottingham Forest standout Elliot Anderson to the Etihad Stadium.
Man City ready to spend big this summer
Man City are suddenly ready to open their massive cheque book as they are preparing to build another team that could challenge for the biggest honours in football.
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Players like Bernardo Silva and John Stones are leaving the club in the summer and they need reinforcements to improve the quality and the depth of the squad.
Since leaving his boyhood club, Newcastle United, to find regular first-team minutes, Anderson has been an absolute revelation.
Arriving at Nottingham Forest, he was instantly handed the keys to the engine room, and he has completely repaid that faith.
Evolving into a highly dynamic, all-action playmaker, his consistent Premier League brilliance has transformed him from a promising prospect into a highly coveted England international.
He is now a fully-fledged top-flight star capable of aggressively driving the ball forward, breaking opposition lines, and dictating the tempo against the best teams in the country.
Anderson would fit like a glove at the Etihad Stadium
City’s recruitment strategy heavily values elite technical versatility, ball retention under pressure, and high tactical intelligence, traits the young Englishman possesses in absolute abundance.
Anderson can seamlessly operate as a traditional number eight, a wide playmaker, or even slot into a deeper role, giving Guardiola the exact kind of tactical fluidity he famously demands from his players.
For City to actually turn Schira’s reported “huge bid” into a reality, it will require an astronomical, statement-making fee to properly test Forest’s resolve and force them to the negotiating table.
Inter Miami are continuing their pursuit of another marquee signing, with Casemiro emerging as a top target ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to Fabrizio Romano, discussions are ongoing between the MLS club and the Brazilian midfielder, who is expected to leave Manchester United as a free agent at the end of the season.
At 34, Casemiro finds himself weighing up the next step in his career after another strong campaign in England.
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While Inter Miami are pushing hard to secure his signature, the experienced midfielder is also attracting interest from other clubs, leaving his future open for now.
Man United midfielder is still high in demand
Casemiro’s impact at Manchester United has been significant since his arrival from Real Madrid in July 2022.
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The Brazilian is known for his leadership, defensive intelligence, and ability to control games from midfield. He has remained a key figure despite entering the later stages of his career.
This season, the Brazilian has delivered impressive numbers, scoring nine goals in 32 Premier League appearances, a remarkable return for a defensive midfielder.
His knack for arriving in the box at crucial moments, combined with his experience at the highest level, has kept him among the most respected midfielders in world football.
Inter Miami’s interest is part of a strategy to attract globally recognized players to Major League Soccer.
Following high-profile signings in recent years, the club continues to position itself as a destination for elite talent seeking a new challenge.
Casemiro will not be short of offers in the summer
Reports suggest that the idea of moving to the United States is appealing to Casemiro, not just from a footballing perspective but also in terms of lifestyle.
MLS has become an increasingly attractive option for experienced players looking to extend their careers while embracing a different environment.
However, Inter Miami are not alone in the race. Other clubs, including teams from the Middle East and Europe, are believed to have made contact or expressed interest.
Financial offers from these regions could rival or exceed those from MLS, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.
It was not always plain sailing, but in the end, Inter emerged as worthy Serie A champions. Giancarlo Rinaldi gives out his grades to some of the vital cogs in their title win.
It would be simplistic to say the Italian league was all but decided by New Year’s Day, but there’s a grain of truth in that assessment. Inter hit the top of the table shortly after Christmas and never really looked back. While others stumbled around them, the Nerazzurri showed that – at least on the home front – they could be the side to beat for some time to come unless other big clubs get their house in order or new challengers emerge. Here are the ratings of some of the most important figures in their 21st Scudetto.
Inter win 2025-26 Serie A title: the most influential figures
Christian Chivu 7.5/10 – Simone Inzaghi was a hard act to follow, and initially it looked like the Romanian might not be up to the job. Early defeats to Juventus and Napoli suggested he was fine against the league’s lesser lights but perhaps still learning against fellow giants. To a degree that persisted throughout the season, but not enough to dent their rise to the top. A big win over Como showed they meant business, and they set a pretty relentless pace. Europe and the Italian Supercup were disappointing, but with a potential double on the cards, thanks to a Coppa Italia final with Lazio, he surely deserves more than pass marks.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale Milano acknowledges the fans following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Federico Dimarco 9/10 – Fans of the Italian national team might beg to differ, but for his club side, this was an unforgettable season for the flying fullback. He was already an amazing attacking option for his team, but his 18 assists this term – the best ever in Serie A since records began – took him to another level. Little wonder Marcus Thuram felt it necessary to polish his teammate’s boots after setting up yet another goal. Add to that a few goals of his own, and you can see why, especially with his partner in crime, Denzel Dumfries, out injured on the other flank for a long spell, he was one of the main architects of Inter’s success.
Manuel Akanji 7.5/10 – There is an accepted wisdom that defenders coming from the Premier League can struggle to adjust to the Italian game, but the Swiss international did not seem to have too many problems. He quickly became a stalwart on Chivu’s side just as he had previously done with Manchester City. He definitely made the biggest impact among any of the new arrivals at the club, and it is perhaps no surprise that there is speculation that he and Yann Bisseck could become the favoured centre-back pairing for a while to come.
Lautaro Martinez 8/10 – Even operating on a part-time basis, he remained a fundamental part of this Scudetto side, both from the touchline barking instructions and when he could get on the pitch to strut his stuff. His goal haul despite struggling with injuries tells part of the story but a more significant slice comes from what he adds to the overall teamplay. Simply one of the best link-up forwards in the business, he is capable of scoring goals and setting them up for others. The Nerazzurri will be praying they can hold on to him and that he has a season with a clean bill of health.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Francesco Pio Esposito 7/10 – Although he didn’t feature all that often or for a full 90 minutes, he was still definitely a bright spot this campaign. At a club more known for its old stagers than its youthful appearance, he was a breath of fresh air. His attitude, effort and will to learn helped him cope through periods when his more experienced counterparts were sidelined. In an era when very few young Italians get a chance anywhere – never mind with a title-winning team – this was a first step in what will hopefully be a very long and successful career.
With the summer transfer window rapidly approaching, Manchester United’s recruitment team is already working overtime to map out the next phase of their midfield rebuild.
It is an open secret at Old Trafford that the legendary Casemiro will be packing his bags when his current deal officially expires this June.
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While the Brazilian veteran has enjoyed a stellar bounce-back campaign, United’s hierarchy is aggressively scoping out long-term successors.
According to Fogao, the Red Devils have officially made contact with Botafogo regarding their 25-year-old midfield dynamo, Danilo.
Midfielder has prior experience in the Premier League
If the name Danilo sounds familiar to Premier League fans, it absolutely should.
The energetic midfielder previously spent two-and-a-half years plying his trade with Nottingham Forest before returning to his native Brazil in the summer of 2025 for roughly £21.5 million.
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Since pulling on the Botafogo shirt, Danilo has been absolutely electric. He has rapidly evolved from a traditional defensive shield into a dynamic, hybrid midfielder capable of breaking lines and joining the attack with purpose.
His sensational club form, racking up 10 goals and seven assists in nearly 40 appearances across all competitions, recently earned him a highly coveted call-up to the senior Brazil national team.
Fulham, Napoli, Bayer Leverkusen, and Zenit St Petersburg are all reportedly hovering, meaning Man United will face incredibly stiff competition if they want to secure his signature.
Can Man United beat competition to sign the Brazilian?
Prying the 25-year-old away from Botafogo won’t be a simple task. Danilo is firmly locked into a contract that runs until June 2029.
The Brazilian club is acutely aware of his skyrocketing value and is completely unwilling to sell him to domestic rivals like Palmeiras or Flamengo, who have also expressed interest.
Instead, Botafogo’s preference is clear, they are holding out for a massive European payday, with expectations that they would accept an offer in the region of €40 million.
As Man United prepare to redefine their midfield structure without Casemiro, finding a successor who combines tactical discipline with Premier League experience is absolutely crucial.
If the Old Trafford hierarchy can move swiftly and beat out the massive crowd of European suitors, securing the reborn Brazilian could turn out to be their smartest business in a long time.
Liverpool and Manchester United met each other twice this season and both the times the Red Devils came out on top.
The two Premier League rivals could go against each other once again but this time in the transfer market and the Merseyside club are hoping to win this time.
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As the Anfield hierarchy looks to heavily reinforce the squad ahead of next season, tightening up the backline has clearly become an absolute top priority.
According to respected transfer insider Matteo Moretto, the Reds are now preparing to make contact with Bournemouth’s rock-solid center-back, Marcos Senesi.
Marcos Senesi is being chased by top clubs
With his contract expiring at the end of the current campaign, the 28-year-old Argentine is quickly becoming one of the most fiercely coveted bargains in English football.
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Why are Liverpool suddenly pushing so hard for Senesi? The answer lies in the mounting uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté.
While the French powerhouse has been an undeniable force on his day, his long-term future at the club is now suddenly up in the air.
Sporting director Richard Hughes knows he simply cannot afford to be caught completely off guard if Konaté departs.
Entering the absolute prime of his career, Senesi offers a brilliant, ready-made solution.
As a naturally left-footed center-back, a highly prized and rare commodity in modern tactical setups, he would bring instant balance to Arne Slot’s possession-heavy, build-from-the-back system.
He has spent the last few years quietly proving himself on the South Coast as an aggressive, ball-playing defender who is perfectly tailored to the grueling, relentless pace of the Premier League.
The INEOS-led recruitment team at Old Trafford are undergoing their own massive defensive rebuild, setting the stage for a classic, high-stakes tug-of-war between the two North West heavyweights.
If battling United wasn’t tough enough, the London clubs are also actively lurking in the shadows.
The one thing that is absolutely certain? Senesi is staying in the Premier League.
He knows the division inside out, and because there is no transfer fee attached, the wage packages on offer from these top-tier clubs will be incredibly lucrative.
One of the players who has revived his career this season is attacker Donyell Malen.
The Dutchman has done that by swapping the Premier League for the Italian capital.
After struggling to find his footing at Aston Villa, the 27-year-old Netherlands international has been absolutely electric during his loan spell with Roma.
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But just as he looks ready to settle down, interest is increasing from the top clubs in his services.
His sensational form has been a massive boost, directly helping Roma fight to reclaim a highly coveted spot in the Champions League.
Because of this red-hot streak, Roma are fully expected to exercise their option to buy the 27-year-old permanently from Aston Villa. The permanent transfer fee is reportedly set somewhere between €25 million and €30 million.
For an attacker in his absolute prime putting up those kinds of elite numbers, that price tag feels like the bargain of the century.
Chelsea and Man United are both keeping a close eye
Naturally, this has caught the eye of massive European clubs.
Chelsea and Manchester United aren’t the only ones watching, Newcastle United and even Barcelona are heavily monitoring the situation.
The interested Premier League giants recognise that Malen is easily worth double that €25m minimum fee, but Roma’s ownership, the Friedkin Group, have made their stance crystal clear.
They have zero intention of flipping him for a quick profit and are expected to be in the city this week to officially authorise his permanent transfer.
Roma are absolutely determined to keep their new talisman locked down.
From Aston Villa’s perspective, the business is practically already concluded, with manager Unai Emery recently acknowledging that Roma would understandably exercise their buy option given the player’s massive success.
But for Chelsea, Manchester United, and the rest of his elite suitors, this transfer saga might just be beginning.
John Stones’ departure from Manchester City is attracting attention from some of the top clubs in the world.
After nearly a decade at the Etihad Stadium, the England international is set to leave as a free agent, bringing to a close a hugely successful chapter in his career.
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The decision not to extend his contract appears to reflect a combination of factors, from the club’s evolving squad strategy to Stones’ recent injury struggles.
While his exit marks the end of an era, it also opens the door for one final major move in what has been a decorated career at the highest level. sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
Man City are planning to revamp their defense
Over the years, Stones has been a key part of Pep Guardiola’s system, particularly during Man City’s most dominant periods.
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His performances during City’s treble-winning campaign, where he operated in a hybrid defensive-midfield role, remain one of the standout tactical innovations of recent years.
However, the past two seasons have presented challenges. Recurring injury issues have limited his availability, and maintaining consistency in a physically demanding system has become increasingly difficult.
During the 2025/26 season, Stones missed significant stretches, which allowed younger defenders to step in and establish themselves within the squad.
Man City, meanwhile, have been actively planning for the future. The integration of emerging talents like Marc Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov, along with continued investment in youth, signals a clear shift toward building a new defensive core.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich, now under Vincent Kompany, are believed to be exploring defensive reinforcements, with Stones’ experience making him a possible candidate.
From a financial perspective, his departure will also benefit Man City, freeing up a significant portion of their wage bill.
At his next club, Stones is expected to command a competitive salary, likely supplemented by a signing bonus due to his free-agent status.
The next step in his career will be crucial. Whether he moves to Italy, returns to Everton, or takes on a new challenge elsewhere in Europe, Stones still has plenty to offer at the top level.
Cristian Chivu jokes he was ‘already in the Inter history books’ as a player with the Treble, and tried to ‘draw on that experience’ with his squad as a coach. ‘I lost my ego during a life and death moment.’
Chivu won the Treble with Inter as a player in 2010, then started his coaching career with the club’s youth academy, where he worked with Francesco Pio Esposito.
He was not the first choice for the job, as many reported that they had first approached Cesc Fabregas, but the Romanian has secured their 21st Scudetto.
Chivu: ‘I was already in Inter history’
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When told he is in the Inter history books, he replied with his usual dry humour.
“I had done a few things as a player… But I am happy for these lads, for this club, for these marvellous fans who supported us from the start.
“I won’t say the whole narrative from last season, the mockery and denigration of this group, but the lads did well to roll their sleeves up, be reborn, and find what it took for a new competitive season.
“This is the 21st title and another page in the glorious history of this club. I was younger then, I’ve got some grey hair now, but I am just as happy as when I was a player. The players deserve the credit today, they were marvellous.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players and staff of FC Internazionale Milano unveil a flag to celebrate being confirmed as Serie A champions after the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri ended last season empty-handed and saw Simone Inzaghi walk away before the Club World Cup, bringing in Chivu after just a few weeks of senior management at Parma.
Few expected him to march to the Serie A title with three games to spare, and potentially set up a Double, seeing as they will play Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.
“For what this club represents, it was our duty to be competitive. There are ups and downs, the season is a marathon, and we were the most consistent team overall, even after losing a few games, because we always managed to react and get back on our feet,” added Chivu.
“I think in January and February we had 14 wins in 15 games, or something like that, we realised that we could do it. We also had to overcome difficult moments like the Champions League exit to Bodo/Glimt, defeat in the derby, but we always kept our heads up with dignity and the desire to be competitive to the end.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
A draw would’ve been enough tonight against Parma, but Inter did better with a 2-0 victory thanks to Marcus Thuram’s fifth game in a row on target, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan tapping in the Lautaro Martinez assist.
“Obviously I am happy, and it’s only right the players take the credit, enjoying all the love and affection of these fans. It was an opportunity to seal the Scudetto in front of the supporters and we did it.”
Chivu seemed to vanish into the tunnel at one point straight after the final whistle, did he want to leave all the spotlight for his players?
“I went to smoke a cigarette, I have some vices, sorry about that. But yes, they deserve it, so does the club, which always tried to comfort and support us in moments of need.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Where does the coach feel he stepped up and made the difference for his squad?
“I am an unusual person, I had to talk to myself during a moment between life and death, so I lost my ego then. I don’t feel the need to talk about myself,” replied Chivu.
He was referring to the life-changing head injury suffered while playing for Inter, which forced him to wear a protective helmet for the rest of his career.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 20: Coutinho, Cristian Chivu and Wesley Sneijder of Inter Milan celebrates after the first goal during the UEFA Champions League group A match between FC Internazionale Milano and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 20, 2010 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
“I just try to be the best version of myself, to help these lads who sometimes need the carrot, sometimes the stick. I try to draw on the experience I had in many locker rooms, and try not to repeat the errors I dealt with as a player.
“I try to be empathetic, understanding, not to think about the consensus of critics outside, but only on what those who love me think. I am the coach, I will always be up for debate and at risk, that’s the job. You have to accept it, knowing you can only try to do your best. I want to also thank my staff, they are in the same boat as me.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Traditionally, Serie A is won by the team with the best defence, but Chivu and Inter focused on getting the best attack with over 100 goals.
“We always wanted to be proactive, then depending on the opponents, we had different options, like two playmakers, dealing with their press. It’s also about understanding various moments of the game.
“My predecessors did a great job here too, so if these lads know certain things about the game, it is also thanks to those coaches who came before me, who made it easier for me and my staff. It is the players who win the titles and give you what you dreamed of as a child.”
Chivu managed to win the Scudetto up against legends like Antonio Conte, Max Allegri and Luciano Spalletti.
“They are great coaches and I can only learn from them. I will continue learning from them, those coaches who are young like me can only keep learning,” concluded Chivu.
“I honestly never dreamed of winning as President of Inter, it is something remarkable. I thank the Presidents who preceded me, and who inspired me, like Pellegrini, Moratti, Zhang. I also thank the fans and the owners, who have allowed us to work in a calm atmosphere.
“However, this Scudetto belongs to Chivu and the team.”
Marotta oversaw Inter turnaround
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players and staff of FC Internazionale Milano unveil a flag to celebrate being confirmed as Serie A champions after the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri had needed a complete reboot after ending last season empty-handed, losing the Champions League Final, the Scudetto by one point, the Supercoppa Italiana Final and the Coppa Italia semi-final.
Simone Inzaghi walked away too, but Cristian Chivu was drafted in as a surprise choice just days before the Club World Cup kicked off with very little senior management experience.
He has taken them to the Serie A title and they still have to play the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio on May 13.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Yann Aurel Bisseck of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“As Inzaghi also confirmed the contract termination by mutual consent was on Monday and on the Tuesday we decided to go for Chivu,” assured Marotta.
“It was a courageous choice, but a considered one too, because Chivu already had the curriculum as a player winning the Treble here, of being the Ajax captain at age 21, of winning with the Inter youth team as coach, and also of taking Parma to safety.
“We had no doubts on his skills, so perhaps he was lacking a little in experience, but we supported him to cover this gap in his CV. He can and must remain at Inter for many years, as he has great qualities.”
There were some moments during this season when they hit obstacles, repeatedly falling down in the big games and eliminated from the Champions League by Bodo/Glimt in the play-offs.
“After a slightly negative period where the performances were still strong, we realised the team was united and the coach was their leader,” explained Marotta.
“I never fired a coach during a season because the coach is a fundamental component who must be helped. Too often, people make instinctive decisions and the coach pays the price for others, but that is not the way we do things.
“We have a different culture, and besides, there was no reason to make a change. We knew his value and that of the team.”
Now Inter are preparing for next season, so has Chivu asked for any specific new signings?
“We speak very often, and this is not the right time to talk about it now, but we do have some clear ideas,” replied the President.
“The owners will set the financial guardrails, but I am confident because we have a solid core of Italian players in this squad. We also want to look around for the best Italian talents on the market.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Might he be referring to Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra, currently on loan at Cagliari?
“He has a great future ahead of him, but he is not our player.”
Someone whose future is up in the air is Alessandro Bastoni, who has been heavily linked with Barcelona and Liverpool.
“We need the right mix of youth and experience, those players who bring the winning culture and motivation.”
Lautaro Martinez admits Inter needed ‘a change’ with Cristian Chivu replacing Simone Inzaghi, but does not regret his harsh words on the path to the Scudetto.
A point would’ve been sufficient this evening against Parma to be mathematically sure of the title, but they went one better with a 2-0 victory thanks to Marcus Thuram’s fifth consecutive Serie A game on target and a Henrikh Mkhitaryan tap-in on Lautaro Martinez’s assist.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Lautaro Martinez of Inter celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There was tension over the summer when ending the campaign empty-handed, going into the Club World Cup with new coach Cristian Chivu after Simone Inzaghi walked away.
The Argentine also hit out at some of his teammates, most notably Hakan Calhanoglu, demanding that only those who truly want to remain should do so.
Lautaro Martinez did not hold back
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“What I said at that moment was what I felt and had been holding inside me. I didn’t plan it, I just saw some things I didn’t like, and I say what I think,” Lautaro Martinez told DAZN Italia.
“We feel so happy now. It was not easy to start again after a season where we lost all the competitions we were in right at the end, but I am very happy today with this achievement.
“It was a very important objective for us, perhaps many didn’t see us being favourites considering what happened last term, but we worked so hard on and off the field.”
This is the first time in 37 years that Inter have managed to secure the Scudetto at San Siro, as the fixture list so often had them away from home when learning of their success.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The team also scored over 100 goals this season, making them something of an anomaly in Italian football.
“We have for many years been doing very well in Italy and Europe, reaching two Champions League Finals in three years. We must continue along this path, because the most important thing after winning is to keep trying to do better,” added the Argentina international.
“In such a balanced league as this, we managed to keep focused as a group, and this is the most wonderful thing that I am impressed by, the unity of this team.”
Chivu was not the first choice for the job and had very little Serie A experience as a coach, but was rushed in ahead of the Club World Cup and made a huge impact.
“The coach did so well bringing fresh energy, enthusiasm, so after four great years with Simone, perhaps we needed a change of scenery after that Champions League Final. Chivu made sure everyone felt involved and could even train with a smile, that really helped.”
It’s not over yet, as Inter can do the Double when they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico on May 13, while Lautaro Martinez can also be Capocannoniere.
“There’s always more space in the trophy cabinet! This is my mentality and that of Inter, so I am very proud to wear this shirt.”
Football Italia is among the accredited media at San Siro, following the game and celebrations, which have been ongoing since kickoff, as the Nerazzurri only needed one point to mathematically clinch the Scudetto with three games to spare.
Inter fans in Curva Sud, so opposite to the Ultras’ Curva Nord, put up two banners immediately after full-time.
Inter have won their 21st Scudetto, yet their main banner showed a big No. 14 on a Tricolore background.
The banner just underneath read: “+7 against everything and everyone”, referring to seven of Inter’s previous title victories won despite controversial refereeing incidents.
Inter fans in Curva Sud celebrate the title with 14+7 banners
Marcus Thuram and Nicolò Barella insist the genuine bond between players is what gave Inter the strength to ‘get back on our feet’ after ending the season empty-handed, going on to win the Scudetto.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri knew going into tonight’s game with Parma at San Siro that they only needed a point to guarantee the Serie A title.
They did even better, as Thuram ran onto the Piotr Zielinski through ball to beat Zion Suzuki on the stroke of half-time, then Henrikh Mkhitaryan turned in the Lautaro Martinez assist.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram, Federico Dimarco, and Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Barella is one of the best players in the world, he can do so much, he helped Inter and Italy, in my view he is the best Italian player. I never understood when he was doubted by some people,” Thuram told DAZN Italia.
“He got angry on and off the field, he is one of our captains, and we must not forget that. Since I arrived at Inter, I saw a team that loves to stay together, on and off the field, and that is our strength.”
So many had said that the Inter era was over after they ended last season empty-handed, losing the Champions League Final 5-0 and missing out on the Scudetto by one point to Napoli.
Simone Inzaghi’s departure also raised doubts, but Cristian Chivu has taken them to the title with three rounds to spare, and potentially also a Double, as they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.
“Of course we’re happy! As we always said, this was our objective, we have another in just over a week’s time, this was not easy, but we want to enjoy it now,” Barella told DAZN Italia.
“This is football and life, there are difficult moments, for example last season we came so close to everything and won nothing. In life you must always get back on your feet and I want to thank these lads and the staff, they helped me during tough moments, and I try to give my all.
“I always said that you can make mistakes on the field, but this team never lost the desire to stay together. We always gave everything we had, you can win or lose, but I am so proud of these lads.”
Inter are the Champions of Italy for the 21st time, as Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan secured the 2-0 victory over Parma to get the party started at San Siro.
The Nerazzurri knew just a point here would suffice to celebrate the title after Napoli’s 0-0 draw at Como, but while Hakan Calhanoglu and Luis Henrique were injured, Lautaro Martinez was back on the bench, and Alessandro Bastoni had his first start in three weeks. The Ducali already secured Serie A safety and could relax, missing Matija Frigan and Benja Cremaschi.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players of FC Internazionale Milano pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
An early Denzel Dumfries glancing header flashed inches wide from the Nicolò Barella cross, but Parma also wasted a chance to take the lead when Mateo Pellegrino got the volley wrong from 12 yards on the Adrian Bernabé cross from the right.
Inter could not have come closer on 26 minutes when a well-worked move set up Barella for the scorching finish off the crossbar, it bounced off Zion Suzuki’s back, but the goalkeeper managed to scramble the rebound off the feet of Marcus Thuram from point-blank range.
Dumfries had a shot charged down by Abdoulaye Ndiaye following another give-and-go, but Inter broke the deadlock in first half stoppages. Thuram sprung the offside trap on the Piotr Zielinski through ball, took a touch and swept in with the inside of the right boot from seven yards. It was the Frenchman’s fifth consecutive Serie A match on target.
A clinical Marcus Thuram finish!
Inter need just one point vs Parma to clinch the Scudetto this evening
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 3, 2026
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Pio Esposito went off with a back injury, replaced by former Parma striker Ange-Yoan Bonny for the restart, while Lautaro Martinez also made an appearance for the final 25 minutes.
Dimarco almost added another assist to his record-breaking campaign, but Henrikh Mkhitaryan failed to tap in at the back post from six yards, allowing Hans Nicolussi Caviglia to scramble it clear.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale Milano and Adrian Bernabe of Parma Calcio 1913 chase after the ball during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Another Dimarco roll across from the right was fired over by Dumfries at full stretch, while Lautaro Martinez cut inside a defender to bend the finish into the arms of Suzuki.
The second goal arrived when Lautaro Martinez sprung the offside trap down the right and rolled it across for Mkhitaryan to tap in from five yards.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan adds the finishing touches to a delightful Inter move
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 3, 2026
Nesta Elphege had the ball in the net late on for Parma, but only after Pontus Almqvist had wandered offside for the assist.
Davide Frattesi nearly got a goal moments after coming on for Barella, but his volley on yet another Dimarco cross squirmed under Suzuki, the keeper preventing it from crossing the line completely.
Tottenham delivered a statement victory at Villa Park this weekend, dismantling Aston Villa in a performance that signaled their growing dominance under the current tactical regime.
While the scoreline suggested a competitive contest, the reality on the pitch told a different story, one of North London superiority driven by a midfield masterclass.
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Sky Sports News reporter Jamie Weir, speaking from pitchside at Villa Park, was unequivocal in his praise for several Tottenham players including Conor Garragher, who he believe has his best game in a Spurs shirt.
Conor Gallagher performance vs Aston Villa
(Photo by Adrian Dennis / AFP via Getty Images)
Since his move to the capital, Gallagher has struggled to make any significant impact, often struggling under previous two managers.
But under Roberto De Zerbi, Gallagher seems to have found his groove, with the Italian getting the best out of him.
Weir described the performance as “Gallagher’s best game in a Spurs shirt,” noting that he controlled the tempo and transition of the game with relentless intensity.
Stat
Output
Touches
59
Possessions Won
6
Duels Won
4
Tackles
3
Accurate Long Balls
2/2
Shots on Target
1/1
Goals
1
Conor Gallagher – Game by Numbers vs Aston Villa via Squawka
Gallagher wasn’t alone in his excellence. Flanked by Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur, the trio formed an impenetrable engine room.
“Either side of him, Palhinha and Bentancur were utterly magnificent,” Weir added.
The praise extended to the flanks, where Mathys Tel and Destiny Udogie were described as “relentless,” supported by a composed defensive pairing of Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven.
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Tottenham’s Conor Gallagher speaking to TNT Sports after the game was full of praise for the new manager. “I can’t speak highly enough of him. He’s been so good.
“Every player in the squad has taken to him, everyone trusts him, he makes you feel good, confident, he’s bringing the best out of players and it’s only the start.
“Hopefully we can keep learning from him and build a great team.”
“I can’t speak highly enough of him, he’s been so good.” ?
Conor Gallagher praises Roberto De Zerbi after a strong display from Tottenham Hotspur
Watch as Marcus Thuram gets the Inter party started against Parma, finding the net for the fifth game in a row, but the celebration didn’t go entirely to plan.
The Nerazzurri went into tonight’s match knowing a point would be enough to be mathematically crowned the new Champions of Italy, putting them beyond reach of second-placed Napoli.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players of FC Internazionale Milano pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
They went even better, as Thuram ran onto the Piotr Zielinski through ball to give them the lead in first half stoppages, sending the San Siro crowd wild.
It was the striker’s fifth consecutive Serie A match on the scoresheet, with so far a total of six goals.
Thuram opens Inter account
A clinical Marcus Thuram finish!
Inter need just one point vs Parma to clinch the Scudetto this evening
— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) May 3, 2026
He tried to go into a knee-slide celebration on the turf, but the pitch wasn’t quite as slick as he expected, and the France international ended up face-down in the grass instead.
Luciano Spalletti admits Juventus are ‘disappointed and have regrets’ after a surprising 1-1 draw with Verona, along with tension on the touchline with director Sean Sogliano.
This was a huge opportunity to catch Milan in third place after the Rossoneri were beaten 2-0 by Sassuolo earlier today, with Napoli and Como also dropping points in the fight for the top four.
It was assumed that Juve would sweep Verona aside in Turin, especially as Hellas had already been mathematically relegated on Friday night and had nothing to play for.
Instead, Kieron Bowie put them ahead and only a Dusan Vlahovic free kick off the bench managed to snatch a 1-1 draw for the Old Lady.
Spalletti frustrated with Juventus errors
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We must always evaluate what happens, analyse things, and then try to improve for the next matches, because those are the ones that matter now, seeing as we didn’t win this one,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.
“Clearly, we are disappointed, we have regrets, and unfortunately this happens in football. We were not fortunate, and with a little more sharpness we could’ve turned it around, even if you cannot always control everything.
“What we can do is stay clear-headed in the moments that matter, and we didn’t do it today. That is one of the qualities that makes a great player, because you can identify those moments where you’ve got to be fully concentrated.”
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The coach had warned before kick-off that this was the kind of game where the risk was having 11 great players rather than a team unit.
“I thought we had started quite well, but then Verona locked it down, as is only right for them to do. We created some dangers, but couldn’t break through the right way, then allowed them a few counter-attacks, plus that error which made it all the more difficult.
“The tension cranked up after that, you have the fear of not making it, when everyone is telling you it’s an easy game and you discover it isn’t easy at all,” continued the coach.
“We make mistakes that you see from kids, things that are too banal to be at this level, then in the second half you pin them back and have great moments of football that deserve to win a match.
“We played our game and I think overall we did deserve to win it.”
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus FC is tackled by Martin Frese of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
It was a frustrating evening, as Francisco Conceicao looked furious when substituted after a couple of good chances, while Edon Zhegrova hit the upright in stoppages.
It is remarkable that when the race for a Champions League spot could go down to the wire, Juventus were held to a pair of 1-1 draws by Verona this season.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Bremer of Juventus FC is challenged by Kieron Tom Bowie of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Of course, both teams had different coaches during the first meeting, as Igor Tudor and Paolo Zanetti were both replaced.
If Roma beat Fiorentina tomorrow, then they will close to within a point of Juve in fifth place.
There was tension in the closing stages when Verona director Sean Sogliano was sent off from the touchline for dissent, then complained bitterly in the press interviews just before Spalletti took to the microphones.
“I don’t understand what the director was talking about,” noted the Juventus coach.
“I will go and see what he was complaining about, but I really don’t understand it, he was a little cryptic, but we never got up from the bench to complain whenever his players stayed down for 30 seconds after every foul, tried to use up every available second on throw-ins, it’s all a bit much.”
Hellas Verona sporting director Sean Sogliano was unhappy with the attitude from Juventus players and staff members during a 1-1 draw at the Allianz Stadium: ‘If I say what I really think, I’d probably have to stop working.’
The Gialloblu even took the lead in the first half, but Dusan Vlahovic levelled the score after being introduced as a substitute in the second half.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus FC in action against Kieron Tom Bowie of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
As usual, Verona director Sogliano followed the match from the touchline alongside Verona reserves and staff members, but the director was sent off for dissent in the very last minute after the referee had awarded a free kick to Juventus.
Safe to say, Sogliano was unhappy with the attitude of the Bianconeri players and staff.
“I was sent off today as well because I saw things I don’t like,” he told Sky Sport via FcInter1908.
“We are talking about culture and the fact that we’re not going to the World Cup. Here it’s always the same story. Even against an already-relegated team, I heard things I don’t want to repeat, because if I say what I really think, I’d probably have to stop working.
“A strong team that complains about the referee when, in a minute, fans would have been putting the ball in the net for them,” Sogliano continued.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“Verona showed pride and earned a point. And if someone gets sent off for losing their temper over certain things, film both benches; then we’ll have something to talk about besides VAR. I’m saying this as someone who’s already been relegated, so nobody really cares. I’m going home with my players and the club because we’re people with pride.”
Today’s draw leaves Juventus in fourth, four points above Roma, who have a game in hand against Fiorentina on Monday.
Roberto De Zerbi’s celebration following Richarlison’s goal against Aston Villa is exactly the kind of raw passion Tottenham fans have been desperate to see.
In a season defined by struggle, the sight of their manager charging onto the pitch to in celebration has provided a defining image of a club finally fighting back.
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Roberto De Zerbi on the pitch celebrating Richarlison’s goal
The match at Villa Park is still ongoing, but the first half belonged entirely to the visitors.
After a bright start, Tottenham doubled their lead in the 25th minute when Richarlison scored a thumping header from vicious Mathys Tel cross. As the ball hit the back of the net, De Zerbi couldn’t contain himself.
The Italian tactician was spotted sprinting onto the grass in a display of pure emotion.
BBC Live reported: “Roberto De Zerbi was on the pitch celebrating that. Loves it, he does,”
For a fanbase that has felt disconnected at times this year, De Zerbi’s heart-on-sleeve management style could just be what the club needs to survive relegation.
The foundations for this dominant display were laid just twelve minutes into the match by Conor Gallagher.
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Controlling the ball from a loose clearance, Gallagher drilled one from long range straight into the bottom corner to give Spurs the all important lead over Villa.
?Conor Gallagher picks the perfect time to score his first goal for Spurs.
— Last Word On Spurs (@LastWordOnSpurs) May 3, 2026
With a 2-0 lead at the interval and De Zerbi orchestrating from the touchline with his trademark intensity, Tottenham look a side transformed.
If they can maintain this level for the second 45 minutes, they will move out of the drop zone and potentially secure their most significant result of the 2025/26 campaign.
Juventus fans showed their discontent towards Canada striker David on Sunday as the 26-year-old was booed while being subbed off in a home game against already-relegated Verona.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
David started the match and was subbed off at minute 70, with the score already 1-1.
As reported by TMW and other media outlets, most Juventus fans were unhappy with the Canadian’s performance and showed their unhappiness when he left the field to make room for Fabio Miretti.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Jonathan David of Juventus during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Dusan Vlahovic had been introduced a few minutes earlier, scoring the equaliser for the Bianconeri.
The Serbia international had missed several months of action because of a muscle injury that required surgery in December 2025 and scored his first goal since October.
David is in his first season at Juventus, where he has netted eight goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.
Inter President Beppe Marotta admits he didn’t expect Cristian Chivu to win the Scudetto in his first season, and potentially the Coppa Italia too. ‘We didn’t go in blind, but showed courage.’
The champagne is on ice in the dressing room, because just one point tonight will be enough to guarantee the Nerazzurri become Champions of Italy.
As Napoli and Milan both dropped points already this weekend, a draw will suffice to get the Scudetto party started.
Marotta ready for Inter success
PISA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Giuseppe Marotta of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Pisa SC and FC Internazionale at Arena Garibaldi on November 30, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Let’s be prudent here. We know that this is the most important exam for the diploma, and we’ll give it our all to achieve this target that would make the fans, players, club and coach happy,” Marotta told DAZN Italia.
“We hope it can be a great game and that is concluded with the Scudetto, but Parma deserve respect.”
Chivu had been a contentious choice when picked to replace Simone Inzaghi, but has proved to be a success with the title and potentially also the Coppa Italia.
“An important value for Inter is courage, I think that is the main fuel behind this decision made by the owners on one side and the management on the other. We certainly didn’t go in blind, we evaluated Chivu’s skills and characteristics, which suited our needs and our weaknesses,” explained the President.
“We had no doubts he would have a positive campaign, but if it ends with the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia, that would be a truly extraordinary season.”
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano is congratulated by Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, after scoring his team’s fifth goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter are hoping to make this a Double, because they will face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico on May 13.
However, they haven’t clinched the title on home turf for 37 years, so doing it at San Siro would be a relatively new experience.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: The FC Internazionale fans show their support during the Coppa Italia match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We were optimistic from the start, as Chivu worked in our youth academy, so we knew him as a coach and a person with great values. Admittedly, we didn’t expect him to have such a remarkable season, with the only blotch being that Champions League elimination, but these things happen.
“We are very pleased, because he came up through our youth academy, which adds to the pride of this club.”
This is set to be the 10th Scudetto for Marotta at two different clubs, as he won with both Juventus and Inter, but this would be his first as a club President.
He was asked if he had any updates on the refereeing scandal and the suggestions that Inter did not want certain referees?
“No, I have nothing to add to last week, we are very relaxed and not concerned.”
Dusan Vlahovic came off the bench for his first goal of 2026 to rescue a point for Juventus against relegated Verona, but it’s a missed opportunity to go third.
The Bianconeri hoped to make the most of Como, Napoli and Milan dropping points, with Kenan Yildiz back in the starting XI after two games as a substitute and Dusan Vlahovic ready for the bench, leaving only Arek Milik and Juan Cabal out of action. A victory here would’ve put the Old Lady in joint third with Milan. Hellas were already doomed to relegation this weekend, with Nicolas Valentini suspended, Gift Orban frozen out for an altercation with a fan, and Armel Bella-Kotchap, Cheikh Niasse, Daniel Oyegoke, Suat Serdar and Daniel Mosquera injured.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC is challenged by Jean-Daniel Dave Lewis Akpa Akpro of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Francisco Conceicao tested Lorenzo Montipò at the near post, then the Kenan Yildiz pull-back for Jonathan David was intercepted, and Andrias Edmundsson threw himself in the path of the David angled drive.
A corner was not cleared very far, so the Pierre Kalulu cross back in was flicked onto the crossbar off Gleison Bremer’s head on 26 minutes.
Manuel Locatelli saw his strike deflected just wide, then the midfielder was perhaps harshly booked for simulation when going down in a coming together with Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus FC in action against Kieron Tom Bowie of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Moments later, Verona took the surprise lead when Bremer was caught napping passing out from the back, intercepted by Domagoj Bradaric and rolled across from the left for Kieron Bowie to sweep in. It was all the more remarkable considering Juve had kept four consecutive clean sheets before that gift.
The Scotland international nearly got another when deflected over by Lloyd Kelly, while Edmundsson made another decisive block on Andrea Cambiaso.
Dusan Vlahovic was thrown on for Khephren Thuram after the restart and Juve moved to 4-4-2. A couple of crosses were a little too high for the Serbian, but he got them on level terms and ended his 180-day goal drought by bending a free kick around the Verona wall and into the near bottom corner. Remarkably, it was also the first direct free kick scored by Juventus in Serie A this season.
Akpa Akpro risked an own goal intercepting the Conceicao pull-back to turn over from four yards, but Montipò made two extraordinary reaction saves in the space of a minute, both to deny Conceicao from point-blank range at the back post.
Conceicao also drilled wide from the edge of the area, while Jeremie Boga couldn’t surprise Montipò at the far stick on an Edon Zhegrova cross.
TURIN, ITALY – MAY 03: Bremer of Juventus FC is challenged by Kieron Tom Bowie of Hellas Verona FC during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Hellas Verona FC at Allianz Stadium on May 3, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Boga saw his curler intercepted by a Hellas chest in the six-yard box, but Edon Zhegrova was unlucky in stoppages when his angled drive thumped the base of the near post and hit the goalkeeper on the back, but ricocheted back out.
It means both Juve’s games against Verona ended 1-1 this season, dropping four points overall in these fixtures.
Inter need just one point to celebrate the Scudetto tonight against Mateo Pellegrino’s Parma, so Francesco Pio Esposito, Marcus Thuram and Alessandro Bastoni start.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 17: Federico Dimarco of Inter talks with Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Cagliari Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 17, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Esposito therefore partners Thuram upfront, with Petar Sucic preferred to Henrikh Mkhitaryan in midfield.
Bastoni returns in defence three weeks after his last start, having struggled with a recurring ankle issue.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter warms up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Parma have already locked down their Serie A safety thanks to a victory over Pisa, and are therefore also in celebratory mood at San Siro.
Matija Frigan and Benja Cremaschi are out of action, but Pellegrino leads the attack with Gabriel Strefezza, as super-sub Nesta Elphege waits for his opportunity.
UDINE, ITALY – APRIL 18: Nesta Elphege of Parma celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Gabriel Strefezza during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Friuli on April 18, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Many of these players worked with Cristian Chivu last season, but it is a remarkable achievement for the coach to win the Scudetto in his first full top flight campaign.
Manchester United’s match-winner against Liverpool, Kobbie Mainoo, appeared to take a thinly veiled swipe at former manager Ruben Amorim while praising the transformative impact of Michael Carrick.
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Kobbie Mainoo praises Michael Carrick after Manchester United win
Mainoo, who has been the standout performer since Carrick took the reins in January 2026, highlighted the shift in atmosphere at Carrington.
“He’s played a huge part in it, all the confidence he gives all the players,” Mainoo said, visibly emotional after the 3-2 victory.
“You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch.”
The comments have been interpreted by many as a reflection of the fractured relationship between the squad and Amorim, whose 14-month tenure ended abruptly on January 5.
While the Portuguese manager struggled to find consistency, leaving the club in sixth place, Carrick has revitalised the side, leading them on a charge that has seen them climb to third in the Premier League table.
Ruben Amorim struggled to get the best out of Kobbie Mainoo
The contrast in Mainoo’s role under the two managers is striking. Despite being regarded as one of United’s brightest young talents, he was largely overlooked by Amorim, playing just 212 minutes of Premier League football in the first half of the campaign.
It reached a point that Mainoo was even considering a move to Napoli in the January window to secure first-team football.
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However, since Carrick’s appointment on January 13, Mainoo has become central to United’s system, starting 12 of the manager’s first 13 matches in charge.
Carrick has built his approach around Mainoo’s composure, intelligence, and passing range, qualities that were previously underutilised.
Mainoo’s decisive display against Liverpool now stands as a powerful statement of Carrick’s faith, while also highlighting what Manchester United risked losing under the previous regime.
Massimiliano Allegri says that he understands his fan’s frustrations, but has urged for calm after watching his Milan side fall to a disappointing 2-0 defeat away against Sassuolo on Sunday afternoon.
The Rossoneri conceded within the first few minutes of both halves; Domenico Berardi finding the net after five minutes and Armand Lauriente after 47, which means that they have now won just one of their last five matches in Serie A. Now, the Rossoneri could potentially slip down to fourth place by the end of Sunday evening.
Allegri responds after Sassuolo 2-0 Milan: ‘We approached both halves badly’
“We approached both halves badly, especially the second. We threw it away, that’s how it’s going in this period. You can’t waste 10 months of work. Now we have to think about Atalanta,” said Allegri in a post-match interview with DAZN (via TMW).
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Massimiliano Allegri,Head Coach of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“Technically, we made a lot of mistakes. It was a bad day, a bad Sunday. We have to meet again on Tuesday and work to fix it.”
Despite the fact that Milan have not yet secured a Champions League spot for next season, Allegri has no doubt that the Rossoneri will finish the 2025-26 season in the all-important top four.
“It’s not at risk. I would be very happy to confirm it on the final day as well, I’ve always said it. I am with the team every day and this is a difficult moment. We have to stay calm and take responsibility, we have to prepare as best we can for the game against Atalanta.
“We’ve done 10 months of good work, we’re in the final stretch. We haven’t done very well in the second half of the season, we can’t change that anymore. We just have to look ahead.
“Until the end, we have to stay grounded and work to overcome these moments of difficulty. I understand the fans, we all wanted to get over the finish line quickly, but we can’t get anxious.”
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Fabio Maresca, referee of the match shows a red card to Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Allegri does not deny the fact that the sending off of Fikayo Tomori after 24 minutes had a big impact on proceedings, but didn’t appear too critical of his centre-back, despite his two early yellow cards.
“The sending off conditioned the game. These things happen. The important thing is to get back up quickly. We need two positive results to get into the Champions League, let’s just think about that.”
Allegri was also asked why he decided to take off Christopher Nkunku for Zachary Athekame at the half-time interval.
“I wanted to take the game forward as much as possible and give some balance, but it didn’t help because we immediately conceded.”
Luciano Spalletti warns Juventus risk taking Verona for granted with an opportunity to catch Milan in third place. ‘The danger is to be 11 great players rather than a great team.’
With Como held to a 0-0 draw by Napoli and Roma facing Fiorentina on Monday, this is an opportunity for the Bianconeri to consolidate fourth place and that Champions League ticket.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Juve are unbeaten in eight Serie A games, winning five and drawing the other three, the longest positive streak in the league.
That includes a run of four consecutive clean sheets, conceding only once in the last seven rounds.
“We want to keep doing more than we did the day before, sport is a daily competition to always challenge yourself with something new. If you keep using the same techniques as in the past, it’s natural the others will surpass you, so we must focus on the performances and try to become what we want to be.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Khephren Thuram of Juventus celebrates his goal with his team-mates and Luciano Spalletti Head coach of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Verona are already relegated, so the danger today is that Juve will take the victory for granted.
“When there are games like this, players tend to become 11 great players rather than a great team, so we need to be focused, ready to work, able to fill the whole game and not just do one thing, help your teammates, go beyond your usual characteristics. This unity is what helps everyone going forward.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Kenan Yildiz had been on the bench for the last two games against Bologna and Milan, but has shaken off that recurring inflammation for a return to the starting XI.
Jonathan David is confirmed upfront with Francisco Conceicao in a 3-4-3 formation, sending Jeremie Boga and not fully fit Dusan Vlahovic to the bench after the 0-0 at San Siro.
“Yildiz could be a university professor in terms of team spirit, because he always wants to be with other people, he knows how to behave in a group, he’s a splendid lad, so we trust he will show us something good today,” noted Spalletti.
“Vlahovic had a nasty injury, he is recovering, and if we need someone with his characteristics today, then he too is available to help the team at this moment.”
It was an afternoon to forget for Milan, who fell to a 2-0 defeat away against Sassuolo in Serie A on Sunday, and were then loudly booed by their travelling supporters in an awkward moment after the full-time whistle.
What happened after full-time of Sassuolo 2-0 Milan?
An early strike from Domenico Berardi was followed by a goal from Armand Lauriente to send Sassuolo 2-0 up against Milan, who had been playing with 10 men since the 24th minute after Fikayo Tomori was sent off for two yellow card offences.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Armand Laurienté of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
It has been a disappointing end to the 2025-26 season for Milan, who have only picked up four points from their last five matches, falling to defeats against Sassuolo, Udinese and Napoli over that period.
Now, the Rossoneri could end the weekend in fourth place if Juventus win against the already-relegated Hellas Verona later on Sunday evening.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan reacts after Fabio Maresca, referee of the match shows to hi a red card during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Milan supporters made their frustrations clear after the Sassuolo defeat. The Rossoneri players did not go and thank their supporters in front of the stand, instead staying in the centre circle while being loudly jeered from a distance.
Sky Sport Italia reports that captain Mike Maignan began to lead his players over to the stand to applaud their supporters, but then began to head towards the dressing rooms upon hearing the boos, which only made the reception worse.
Milan will have an opportunity to respond next Sunday when they host Atalanta in San Siro. Then come tests against Genoa and Cagliari to close the 2025-26 campaign.
Kobbie Mainoo has scored a rocket of a strike from the edge of the box to potentially win the game for Manchester United in a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford.
With the scores locked at 2-2 following a frantic second-half comeback by Liverpool, the “hometown hero” stepped up in the 77th minute to re-establish the lead and ignite the Stretford End.
However, Manchester United’s resolve remained unbroken. In the 77th minute, a cross from Luke Shaw was headed down by Amad Diallo into a crowded penalty area.
Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister attempted to clear the danger, but his boot only found the path of the onrushing Mainoo.
From the edge of the area, the 21-year-old midfielder connected with a perfectly timed side-foot rocket that rifled into the bottom corner, leaving Freddie Woodman with no chance.
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Mainoo has become a vital part of Michael Carrick’s Man United
Mainoo, who was on the verge of a January exit just a few months ago after falling out with Ruben Amorim has become a key player under Michael Carrick.
Under the guidance of legendary midfielder, who took over as head coach in January 2026, the young midfielder is now one of the first names on the team sheet.
Mainoo’s ability to arrive late in the box and provide clinical finishing has added a new dimension to United’s attack.
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Dominik Szoboszlai scores solo goal after Diallo mistake
Manchester United entered the second half with a comfortable two-goal cushion, but that momentum evaporated just two minutes after the restart.
Amad Diallo, who had replaced the injured Benjamin Sesko at halftime, endured a nightmare start to his cameo.
In the 47th minute, Diallo attempted a loose pass in his own half that was easily intercepted by Dominik Szoboszlai.
The Hungarian midfielder needed no second invitation, driving forward with intent and weaving through the United defense.
He capped off the solo run with a composed finish past Senne Lammens, breathing immediate life into an Arne Slot side that had looked second-best until that point.
A fabulous solo goal from Dominik Szoboszlai and Liverpool are in the contest! ? pic.twitter.com/qy0XNLki2g
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Senne Lammens gifts Liverpool an equaliser
If the first goal was a gift, the second was a complete collapse.
In the 56th minute, young United goalkeeper Senne Lammens committed a catastrophic error that silenced the Old Trafford crowd.
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Under minimal pressure, the Belgian shot-stopper attempted to play out from the back but scuffed his clearance directly into the path of Alexis Mac Allister.
Mac Allister quickly fed Szoboszlai, who unselfishly laid the ball off for Cody Gakpo. With Lammens caught out of position and the goal gaping, the Dutch forward made no mistake, tapping home from close range to make it 2-2.
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
The two goals in nine minutes have completely shifted the complexion of the match. United, who had appeared to be cruising toward a third-place consolidation, now find themselves under immense pressure.
Roy Keane has singled out Andy Robertson for a “dreadful” performance as Manchester United took a commanding lead against Liverpool at Old Trafford.
With United heading into the break 2-0 ahead, the Sky Sports pundit did not hold back in his assessment of the visitors’ defensive display, labeling them a “bad five-a-side team.”
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Roy Keane slams Liverpool’s first half performance
The first half was defined by Manchester United’s relentless intensity and clinical finishing.
Matheus Cunha opened the scoring just six minutes in, followed by a controversial 14th-minute goal from Benjamin Šeško that was allowed to stand despite a VAR check for handball.
While Arne Slot’s side protested the decision, Keane argued that the manager should be more concerned with his players’ lack of composure.
“[Slot] won’t be happy [with the Sesko handball call] but he should be more upset with his team.
“They look frightened to death. They’ve started slow, they’ve given up two goals, defensively – the second goal, Robertson getting beaten at the back post, Robertson defending so far and going forward… Oh it’s been dreadful.
“Liverpool are like a five-a-side team but a bad five-a-side team.
“Not athletic, giving away the ball cheaply. United look like they can score every time they go forward.”
Liverpool have been awful
The Reds have been awful all season despite spending almost half a billion on transfers.
Many would claim that the club are in a transition phase but the problems appear far deeper with the culture and mentality that Klopp had drilled into the club appearing to have been ripped apart.
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Liverpool have 45 minutes to respond to that horrible performance. Slot has to change things quickly or this could become an embarrassing night for the defending champions.
Juventus can catch Milan in third place as they host Kieron Bowie’s already-relegated Verona, as Kenan Yildiz returns to the starting XI with Jonathan David and Francisco Conceicao.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 19: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Allianz Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri have a big opportunity to lock down that Champions League spot after Como were held to a 0-0 draw by Napoli, with Roma facing Fiorentina on Monday evening.
Above all, Milan’s 2-0 defeat at Sassuolo means a victory will put Juve in joint third place.
Dusan Vlahovic is in the squad again after a calf injury during a warm-up last month, while Kenan Yildiz has shaken off that recurring inflammation to start after two games as a substitute.
David and Conceicao complete the attack, sending Jeremie Boga to the bench.
Weston McKennie and Andrea Cambiaso are on the flanks of a 3-4-3 formation.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Jonathan David of Juventus reacts during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Gift Orban is again frozen out after his physical altercation with a fan in the car park a couple of weeks ago, and is unlikely to play for Hellas again.
Nicolas Valentini is suspended, with Armel Bella-Kotchap joining Cheikh Niasse, Daniel Oyegoke, Suat Serdar and Daniel Mosquera on the treatment table.
Toma Suslov partners Scotland international Bowie upfront.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Kieron Bowie of Hellas Verona is challenged by Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Juventus vs. Verona line-ups
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Conceicao, Yildiz; David
Milan crumbled in a 2-0 defeat to Sassuolo when down to 10 men for over an hour due to Fikayo Tomori’s red card, as Domenico Berardi and Armand Laurienté scored.
The Rossoneri could catch Napoli in second place with a victory and consolidate the Champions League spot, but Luka Modric’s season was over after surgery for a fractured cheekbone. Ardon Jashari stepped in, with Christopher Nkunku pushing off-form Christian Pulisic to the bench. Domenico Berardi was back after a two-match ban for the Neroverdi, though Darryl Bakola, Fali Cande, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo were injured.
It took under five minutes for Berardi to confirm his extraordinary record against Milan, as this was his 12th career goal past them. Kristian Thorstvedt robbed Jashari in midfield and it was quickly moved left to right, for Berardi to bend a first-time finish into the far bottom corner with the inside of the left foot.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Fabio Grosso (L), Head Coach of US Sassuolo reacts during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Moments later, Mike Maignan made a one-handed save on the M’Bala Nzola counter-attack, while both teams had penalty appeals waved away as Berardi had his arm behind his back, then Armand Laurienté went down too easily under pressure from Matteo Gabbia, the same with Christopher Nkunku at the other end.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Rafael Leao of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Rafael Leao wasted a golden opportunity when blasting wide with only the goalkeeper to beat after a defensive error sent him clear on goal.
Things went from bad to worse for Milan, as Fikayo Tomori brought down Laurienté on the counter for his second yellow card, leaving his team down to 10 for over an hour.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan reacts after Fabio Maresca, referee of the match shows to hi a red card during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Strahinja Pavlovic made a decisive block on Thorstvedt and Jay Idzes limped off injured, while Alexis Saelemaekers drilled wide.
Sassuolo doubled their lead within 90 seconds of the restart, as Laurienté completed a give and go with Thorstvedt just inside the area, the finish thumped low and hard into the near bottom corner.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Armand Laurienté of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Zachary Athekame fired over, while Nzola and Thorstvedt failed to keep their efforts on target, while both Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Alieu Fadera were booked for simulation in the box.
This result means that with a victory over Verona today, Juventus could catch Milan in joint third place, while they have failed to score in five of the last seven games.
Fresh off securing automatic promotion to the Premier League by capping a stunning 95-point Championship campaign with a ruthless 4-0 demolition of Watford, Coventry City are back in the big time.
Manager Frank Lampard has completely revitalised the Sky Blues, but the champagne celebrations will quickly have to make way for serious boardroom planning.
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To survive in the Premier League, a newly promoted squad desperately needs proven pedigree.
According to the latest scoop from journalist Alan Nixon, Coventry are already plotting a highly audacious summer move to bring Aston Villa’s Ross Barkley to the club.
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This is exactly where Frank Lampard comes in. The Coventry boss knows what it takes to navigate the Premier League, and he recognises that his current squad, while wildly talented and full of momentum, is slightly struggling when it comes to top-flight experience.
Adding a player of Barkley’s profile completely changes the dressing room dynamic.
When fully fit, Barkley offers that combination blend of physical power, ball-carrying ability, and final-third creativity.
He could seamlessly slot in as a central attacking midfielder, providing intense competition for players like Josh Eccles and elevating the technical standards of the entire squad.
Exactly ten years after pulling off the most miraculous Premier League title win in football history, Leicester City have officially hit rock bottom.
The contrast is absolutely staggering as the Foxes prepare for the harsh, unforgiving realities of League One football next season.
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Following a disastrous campaign marred by defensive frailties and dressing room unrest, with big-name players like Harry Winks drawing massive criticism for their performances, the club is in desperate need of a total reset.
With current boss Gary Rowett fully expected to pack his bags and leave the King Power Stadium following their relegation, the search for a new leader is heavily underway.
Leicester City have identified manager target
According to SportsBoom, Leicester City have already made formal contact with Darren Ferguson.
The Foxes board are said to be incredibly keen on the 54-year-old as they begin aggressively mapping out their strategy for the upcoming season.
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While he undeniably carries the massive weight of being Sir Alex Ferguson’s son, Darren has carved out a highly respected, gritty reputation of his own down in the lower divisions.
During his playing days, he spent a massive chunk of his career with Wrexham, racking up around 300 appearances for the Welsh club.
That extensive playing experience has given him a deep, foundational understanding of the lower leagues, which translates directly into his pragmatic managerial style.
Ferguson is widely recognised across the English game as a legitimate promotion specialist at this level.
Ferguson is known for bringing clubs out of crisis
During his various stints managing Peterborough United, he successfully dragged the club out of League One and up to the Championship on three separate occasions.
Furthermore, Leicester’s relegation means they will be facing severe financial constraints and tightening budgets.
Ferguson has a proven track record of working effectively without needing a massive transfer war chest.
The fanbase might be utterly heartbroken by their descent, but navigating the League One minefield requires a manager who genuinely knows the territory.
If the Foxes want an immediate bounce-back, hiring a battle-tested EFL veteran like Ferguson might just be the exact, no-nonsense appointment they need.
As the season approaches its dramatic conclusion this May, the tension around North London isn’t just about the Premier League title race.
While Mikel Arteta remains hyper-focused on the pitch, Arsenal legend Ray Parlour has dropped a massive truth bomb about the makeup of the squad heading into next season.
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The “Romford Pele” has publicly predicted that Gabriel Jesus is edging incredibly close to the exit door, perfectly coinciding with wild reports that the Gunners could sensationally transfer-list four other first-team players.
Jesus’ time at Arsenal has been a bit of a rollercoaster. When he first arrived, he completely transformed the Gunners’ frontline with his relentless pressing and chaotic energy.
According to Parlour’s comments, as reported by Metro, the Brazilian striker’s sheer desire for guaranteed minutes will likely push him away this summer.
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“I think Jesus might leave at the end of the season, he is at that age where he wants to be playing week in, week out,” Parlour explained.
The Arsenal icon pointed out that modern squads need serious depth, recalling his own playing days: “We had four strikers when I played. That is what I don’t understand. [Regardless of Jesus leaving], bring in another one anyway”.
Parlour firmly believes that fresh attacking blood would raise the competitive standards across the entire dressing room.
But Jesus might not be the only massive name clearing out his locker. To fund their highly ambitious summer targets, specifically, making a permanent swoop for standout defender Piero Hincapie, Arsenal reportedly need to generate serious cash.
Reports have emerged suggesting that four massive players have been incredibly placed on the chopping block, Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Selling established superstars like Martinelli or White feels utterly unthinkable given their immense contributions under Arteta.
Throwing generational academy talents like Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly into the mix does not make sense either.
However, the harsh financial reality of the Premier League means that no player is truly untouchable if a massive bid arrives to help fund defensive reinforcements.
Manchester United are gearing up for a colossal Sunday afternoon clash against their absolute fiercest rivals, Liverpool.
The stakes simply couldn’t be higher, just a single point against the Merseyside outfit is needed to officially lock down a spot in next season’s Champions League.
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But right before the whistle blows, club captain Bruno Fernandes has dropped a stunning, heart-on-his-sleeve interview with Sky Sports that has completely electrified the fanbase.
Let’s be completely honest, the last few years in Manchester haven’t exactly been a smooth, bump-free ride.
Man United star Fernandes reveals his intentions
Through the various managerial changes, boardroom drama, and agonising tactical rebuilds, Fernandes has undeniably been the creative glue holding the squad together. Unsurprisingly, that elite level of individual brilliance attracts heavy European interest.
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Speaking openly to Sky Sports, the Portuguese maestro didn’t shy away from the reality of his situation over the past few transfer windows.
“I could have left Manchester United two years ago, or three years ago, I could’ve gone last season,” he confessed, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
For a player of his immense caliber, walking away to a ready-made, title-winning project elsewhere would have been the easy way out. But instead of chasing guaranteed silverware across the continent, he chose the grueling path.
It all comes down to the unique pressure of wearing the famous red shirt. Fernandes made it abundantly clear that lifting a trophy anywhere else simply wouldn’t mean as much.
“I really like to be at the club and I really think that being successful at this club is something that I would NEVER get being in ANY other club,” he passionately declared.
As United prepare to walk out onto the pitch today to battle Liverpool, these words serve as the ultimate rallying cry.
If Fernandes and his teammates can secure that crucial Champions League point this afternoon, it will be one massive step closer to delivering the exact kind of glory he is sacrificing everything to achieve.
Several players are being linked with a move to Arsenal with Mikel Arteta determined to strengthen his squad in the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old Newcastle United defender is actively telling people he is entirely convinced he will be pulling on the famous red and white shirt of Arsenal next season, according to a source on X.
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To fully understand exactly why Livramento is so confident about a move to the capital, you have to look closely at Arteta’s defensive puzzle.
Arsenal currently have Jurrien Timber, who is reportedly close to putting pen to paper on a long-term contract extension and Ben White holding down the right flank.
However, sporting director Andrea Berta is running a broad, relentless recruitment process when it comes to squad depth.
Tino Livramento wants to join Arsenal this summer
Livramento’s explosive pace and versatility to seamlessly operate on both the right and left sides of the defense make him an incredibly appealing target for Arteta’s fluid system.
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Prying him away from St. James’ Park won’t be cheap, though. Reports indicate Newcastle are prepared to hold out for a massive £70 million valuation for the young England international.
Dropping that kind of astronomical cash on a player is a massive gamble, especially considering Livramento has endured a highly frustrating season plagued by tricky groin injuries that have sidelined him for over 30 games.
From Newcastle’s perspective, this potential mega-deal is heavily driven by pure financial pragmatism.
Just like the ongoing transfer rumors surrounding his teammate Anthony Gordon, the Magpies are feeling the suffocating pressure of the Premier League’s financial regulations.
While they desperately want to keep their prize assets, selling a highly-rated star like Livramento for a premium fee could give Eddie Howe the crucial financial flexibility needed to bring in necessary defensive reinforcements and properly balance the books.
The much-anticipated summer clear-out at Old Trafford is officially underway, and it looks like the cameras are already rolling on the very first departure.
While Manchester United fans have been desperately refreshing their timelines for news on blockbuster midfield targets or marquee defensive reinforcements, the first player to firmly pack his bags has been sitting quietly on the bench all season.
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According to a surprising report from The Sun, backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is currently filming his official farewell video ahead of a guaranteed summer exit.
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Arriving from Fenerbahçe with a highly respectable pedigree, Bayindir was billed as the perfect, competitive understudy to new number one Andre Onana. However, the reality of his time in England has been brutally disappointing.
Even when Onana jetted off to the Africa Cup of Nations mid-season, or when the Cameroonian shot-stopper suffered through a highly publicised, rocky patch of form early in the campaign, the managerial staff stubbornly refused to rotate the squad.
Bayindir has been entirely starved of meaningful Premier League minutes, effectively becoming a very expensive spectator.
For a 28-year-old goalkeeper entering the absolute prime of his career, sitting in the shadows simply isn’t an option if he wants to maintain his spot in the national team set-up.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS sporting structure are currently conducting a massive, ruthless audit of the squad.
They are aggressively looking to trim the wage bill and clear out fringe players who aren’t actively contributing to the starting eleven.
Cashing in on Bayindir not only frees up valuable squad funds but also streamlines a squad that has felt heavily bloated for years.
It allows the recruitment team to either promote a promising academy prospect to the number two spot or dip into the market for a cheaper, homegrown veteran to fill the necessary squad quotas.
Ultimately, this impending transfer is the absolute best-case scenario for everyone involved.
Michael Carrick has quickly gone from interim solution to leading contender as Manchester United consider their long-term managerial future.
Since stepping into the role during a challenging period, the former United midfielder has delivered steady improvements that have not gone unnoticed by the club’s leadership.
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According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Carrick is currently viewed as the “clear favourite” to take the job on a permanent basis.
His calm leadership style, tactical discipline, and ability to reconnect the squad with its identity have made a strong impression on decision-makers, particularly Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, who are overseeing football operations at the club.
Carrick has revived a struggling Man United
When Carrick first took charge, expectations were cautious. Many viewed him as a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution.
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However, results on the pitch and changes behind the scenes have steadily shifted that perception.
The team’s improved structure and renewed confidence have been widely credited to Carrick’s measured approach and deep understanding of the club’s culture.
One of the most noticeable changes has been his ability to bring the best out of players who had previously struggled for form or minutes.
Players like Kobbie Mainoo have performed exceptionally well under Carrick, having struggled previously under Ruben Amorim.
INEOS officials have been especially impressed by Carrick’s leadership qualities off the pitch.
Rebuilding morale within the dressing room has been just as important as tactical adjustments, particularly after a turbulent stretch that saw confidence dip across the squad.
His influence on team morale, tactical organization, and overall results has strengthened his case significantly in recent weeks.
However, the final decision has yet to be made, and the club’s leadership is expected to conduct a thorough review before committing.
If Carrick ultimately secures the role, it would mark a remarkable progression from interim coach to long-term leader and potentially signal the beginning of a new chapter built on familiarity, stability, and renewed ambition at Old Trafford.
Aston Villa are continuing to shape their long-term recruitment strategy, and Paris Saint-Germain teenager Ibrahim Mbaye has reportedly emerged as one of the young talents on their radar.
According to the Daily Mail, as reported by Sky Sports, Villa are closely monitoring the 18-year-old attacker as they prepare for a summer transfer window expected to focus heavily on signing emerging prospects rather than established stars.
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Villa’s recent progress in domestic and European competitions has encouraged the club to think strategically about the future.
Instead of relying solely on experienced names, the plan appears to revolve around identifying young players with high ceilings and Mbaye fits that profile perfectly.
Ibrahim Mbaye has caught the attention of top clubs
As per our recent exclusive, the biggest Premier League clubs including Liverpool and Manchester City are monitoring the PSG youngster ahead of the summer transfer window.
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This season, the teenager has made 21 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain, contributing one goal and two assists despite limited opportunities in a star-studded squad.
Breaking into PSG’s first team is never straightforward, especially with the club’s attacking depth featuring experienced international stars.
nder manager Luis Enrique, competition for attacking roles has been intense, meaning younger players often struggle to secure consistent minutes.
Aston Villa ready to provide the youngster a platform
Under their current project, Aston Villa have placed greater emphasis on recruitment that balances short-term competitiveness with long-term development.
Signing younger players allows Villa to build value within the squad while maintaining financial sustainability, something many Premier League clubs now prioritise.
However, securing Mbaye’s signature will not be straightforward. The forward still has two years remaining on his PSG contract, giving the French champions a strong position in negotiations.
Mbaye’s involvement with the Senegal national team has further boosted his reputation. He is expected to feature at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, which could significantly increase his market value if he performs well on the global stage.
Several European clubs are believed to be monitoring Mbaye’s situation, which could drive competition and push transfer fees higher.
For Aston Villa, that means timing will be crucial if they decide to move forward with a formal offer.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot had urged the Anfield hierarchy to make a swift, bargain swoop for a Napoli star. Now, the identity of that target has finally been revealed.
With the Reds looking to strengthen their squad in all the positions, particularly the defensive positions, they have already identified their targets ahead of the summer transfer window.
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Despite heavy financial spending in the summer last year, this season’s performances have shown that the Merseyside club need a rebuild.
Liverpool place offer for Napoli star Buekema
According to a fresh report from Italian outlet AreaNapoli, Liverpool have placed a €28 million (£24.2m) offer on the table to secure the services of 27-year-old Dutch centre-back Sam Beukema.
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It doesn’t take a tactical genius to see exactly why Slot is heavily pushing for this specific signing.
More importantly, Liverpool are actively looking toward the future of their backline. While club captain Virgil van Dijk remains an absolute colossus at the heart of the defense, he isn’t getting any younger.
Beukema, who has quietly developed into a seriously commanding presence in Serie A, perfectly fits the profile of what the Reds are looking for.
At 27 years old, he is entering the absolute prime of his career, boasting the physical maturity and tactical intelligence required to handle the brutal, unforgiving pace of the Premier League.
Liverpool boss relies heavily on center-backs who are incredibly composed under intense pressing and capable of breaking opposition lines with crisp, progressive passing.
Furthermore, the reported £24.2m fee is absolute music to the ears of the Fenway Sports Group (FSG) recruitment team.
In an outrageously inflated modern market where starting-caliber Premier League center-backs routinely command upwards of £60 million, snagging a proven, top-flight defender for under £25 million would be the ultimate “Moneyball” transfer.
The ball is now firmly in Napoli’s court. While the Italian club’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is notoriously one of the toughest negotiators in world football, Liverpool’s opening €28m bid is a highly respectable starting point.
Nick Woltemade’s future at Newcastle United is suddenly becoming a talking point, with reports suggesting the German striker could leave the club just a year after arriving in England.
According to journalist Christian Falk, there is growing uncertainty surrounding the 24-year-old’s long-term place in the squad, despite Newcastle investing heavily to bring him to St James’ Park last summer.
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The Magpies paid around £65 million to sign Woltemade from VfB Stuttgart, viewing him as a key piece in their attacking rebuild, particularly after the departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool.
At the time, the transfer was seen as a bold move that signaled Newcastle’s ambition to remain competitive at the highest level.
Woltemade’s time at Newcastle began with plenty of optimism. He made an immediate impression in the Premier League, scoring four goals in his first five appearances.
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His early form suggested Newcastle had found a reliable attacking option capable of adapting quickly to English football.
However, momentum has slowed significantly in recent months. The striker has struggled to maintain his scoring touch, particularly during the early stages of 2026, where he has yet to find the net in league competition.
Newcastle’s attacking system relies heavily on movement, pressing, and finishing efficiency, areas where Woltemade initially looked promising but has since found more challenging.
Could the Newcastle United star move to Bayern Munich?
The German giants were interested in signing Woltemade last summer before his move to Newcastle United.
It remains to be seen whether they will be interested in bringing him back to the Bundesliga if he becomes available for transfer.
Bayern are known for monitoring Bundesliga-developed talent, and their past interest suggests they recognise the striker’s potential despite his recent struggles in England.
If a substantial offer were to arrive, particularly from European clubs familiar with Woltemade’s earlier performances in Germany, Newcastle might consider evaluating the situation carefully.
Newcastle’s initial investment in Woltemade means they would likely seek to recover a significant portion of the transfer fee if he were to leave. That makes any potential move dependent on whether clubs are willing to match a high valuation.
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