The draw created by Bento’s own goal against Al Hilal in the 98th minute added more suspense to the title race than there should have been after Al Nassr had led the standings for much of the season. That unfortunate play left them with just a two-point margin.

With the competition’s tiebreaker being head-to-head, which favored Al Hilal, only a victory over Damac would seal the title. Especially after Al Hilal started winning their match against Al Fayha early, the pressure was huge. However, Sadio Mané scored first for Al Nassr and Coman later gave them a bigger advantage. Damac then pulled one back, but Ronaldo answered with two goals in a 4-1 victory to restore calm and secure the championship.

Al Nassr’s campaign

Al Nassr were very worthy champions of the Saudi Pro League after a strong campaign. What made them so fun to watch was their willingness to take risks in many matches, as they were the team with the fewest draws, with just two.

Unlike Al Hilal, who did not lose a single match in their entire campaign, Al Nassr dropped points along the way, albeit they did not suffer too many defeats, losing only four times.

The main part of their title run was how many matches they were able to win, with a total of 28, making them the team that collected three points the most on their way to 86 points in 38 matches.

The goal difference

Throughout their title-winning campaign, it was clear that the attack carried the team, as they were the top scorers with 91 goals. They were not bad defensively either, conceding just 28. That left them with a fantastic +63 goal difference.

The battle for the scoring crown produced plenty of suspense during the closing weeks of the campaign. Toney entered the final fixture knowing he had already overtaken Ronaldo in the current Golden Boot standings, while Julian Quinones was still mathematically in contention heading into the final round.

Al-Ahli closed out its league campaign emphatically with a commanding 4-1 victory over Al-Khaleej at Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium. Although Matthias Jaissle’s side had already secured third place in the table, the club still delivered one of its most complete attacking displays of the season.

Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones stop Ronaldo from third consecutive Golden Boot

Even though he failed to score in the final game, Toney finished the season with 32 league goals. However, Julian Quinones solidified his position as the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League, surpassing the Englishman on the last matchday of the season and finishing the campaign with 33 goals in 31 matches. His total tally was enough to deny Ronaldo a third consecutive Golden Boot award in Saudi Arabia.

That achievement alone represents a major accomplishment considering Ronaldo’s extraordinary consistency since arriving at Al-Nassr. The Englishman adapted quickly to Saudi soccer and became the focal point of Al-Ahli’s attack throughout the campaign.

Ronaldo’s legendary record survives another challenge

While Quionones captured the Golden Boot, the bigger piece of history remained untouched. Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary 35-goal record in a single Saudi Pro League season officially stays unbroken after Quinones ended his campaign on 32 goals, and Toney on 32 goals.

He established that historic mark during the 2023-24 season with Al-Nassr. The Portuguese superstar scored 35 league goals in only 31 appearances, surpassing the previous single-season record of 34 goals held by former Al-Nassr striker Abderrazak Hamdallah.

The achievement became even more remarkable because the superstar accomplished it at the age of 39. His campaign also included 11 assists, three free-kick goals, and an astonishing average of one goal every 75.6 minutes.

Meanwhile, second-placed Julian Quinones ends the season with 33 goals, failing to bridge the two-goal gap needed to surpass the Portuguese’s historic benchmark. The Mexico international needed at least five goals in the final game.

Sitting on 83 points, Al Nassr entered the match needing a victory to control their own destiny and prevent Al Hilal from snatching the trophy from their hands. Sadio Mane opened the scoring with a brilliant header, and then Kingsley Coman doubled the advantage with a powerful left-footed strike in the 52nd minute, before Morlaye Sylla cut the deficit from the penalty spot in the 58th.

With Al Nassr already holding a narrow 2-1 advantage, Joao Felix tried to generate an opening down the left flank before being brought down by a heavy challenge. Despite facing a difficult, narrow angle, Ronaldo stepped up to take the set piece and fired a powerful strike that skipped off the turf and past the diving keeper to extend the lead in the 63rd minute.

Then in the 81st minute, Al Nassr orchestrated a brilliant team sequence down the right flank spearheaded by Coman; after a defender failed to clear a dangerous cross, Ronaldo collected the loose ball inside the six-yard box and unleashed a thunderous strike to net his second goal of the night.

Immediately after celebrating, the Portuguese legend dedicated the decisive goal to his wife, Georgina Rodriguez, who was watching from the stands. As he walked back to the halfway line, an emotional Ronaldo was seen breaking down in tears, overwhelmed by the moment as he finally brought his trophy drought with Al Nassr to an emphatic end.

With the championship safely secured, manager Jorge Jesus made the decision to sub out Cristiano Ronaldo for Abdullah Al Hamdan, sending the captain to the sideline to a deafening standing ovation. Once on the bench, Ronaldo remained visibly emotional, soaking in the gravity of the moment as Al Nassr officially crowned themselves Saudi Pro League champions.

Ronaldo extends career goal record to 973

Seven years had passed since Al Nassr last lifted the league trophy, making this first official piece of silverware in Saudi Arabia an incredibly special milestone for Cristiano Ronaldo, especially just days after a heartbreaking loss to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final. Beyond securing the SPL crown, the Portuguese icon has now extended his legendary career total to 973 goals.

With tonight’s decisive brace, Ronaldo has racked up 129 goals in 148 appearances for Al Nassr, including 30 tallies across all competitions in the 2025-26 campaign. Now sitting just 27 goals away from the mythical 1,000-goal milestone, anticipation surrounding Ronaldo’s historic pursuit will only intensify as he pivots to his next major challenge: the 2026 World Cup.

Damac FC managed to impose a promising style of play in the opening minutes. Taking advantage of the spaces in the rival defense, they shined with long passes that allowed their forwards to win through speed. After failing to convert their numerous chances, they gradually became more overwhelmed by the high press of Al Nassr. In addition, they adopted a defensive approach after the goal from Sadio Mané, cutting off any chance of equalising the match.

Without Marcelo Brozovic, Al Nassr struggled to build plays and apply high pressure. While Abdullah Alkhaibari shone with his defensive presence and offensive contributions, Ayman Yaya seemed quite lost, leaving a noticeable creative void. Nevertheless, Sadio Mané and João Félix emerged as the most influential players on the field, creating scoring opportunities and setting up the winning goal.

João Félix managed to be the most decisive player for Al Nassr FC, even if he did not score. Not only did he drop deep to receive the ball in midfield, but he also created spaces in attack. With his vision and change of pace, he moved all around the pitch, giving creativity to a team that seemed lost on the wings. Nevertheless, Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace emerged as the most important part of the game, outshining Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman to win the Saudi Pro League.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace outshined Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman

Throughout the match, Sadio Mané emerged as Al Nassr’s standout player, scoring the decisive goal that shifted the momentum. Head coach Jorge Jesus focused on making the wings the focal point of the game, allowing the Senegalese forward to shine. Following a corner kick by João Félix, Mané found himself unmarked in Damac’s penalty area. He won the aerial duel and headed the ball into the net to score the goal.

Far from slowing down their offensive pace in the second half, Al Nassr continued to shine down the wings. After a spectacular run by Nawaf Boushal, he found Kingsley Coman and passed him the ball. The Frenchman dribbled past Damac’s defenders, playing a give-and-go with Abdullah Alkhaibari to find himself alone on the edge of the box. Taking advantage of his powerful shot, he unleashed a fierce strike, leaving Kewin with no chance.

Despite great performances from Mane and Coman, Cristiano Ronaldo outshone them both with a spectacular brace. Although he went largely unnoticed for much of the match, he managed to score a spectacular free kick from what seemed like a tight angle. Far from stopping there, he doubled down, scoring a brace after a pass from Joao Felix inside the box, beating Kewin of Damac once again.

The Portuguese superstar once again stepped into the spotlight when his club needed him most. After weeks of pressure, late setbacks, and painful missed opportunities, Al-Nassr responded with the performance that crowned it champion and pushed Ronaldo closer to another landmark that once seemed impossible.

The title race had gone down to the final day after Al-Nassr dramatically dropped points against Al-Hilal the previous week. Jorge Jesus’ side knew there could be no mistakes against a Damac side fighting for survival at the other end of the table.

Instead of freezing under pressure, Ronaldo’s side produced a composed display in front of a packed home crowd. The victory officially sealed the club’s first Saudi Pro League title since the 2018-19 season. It also completed Ronaldo’s long-awaited mission after arriving in Saudi Arabia in winter 2023 with enormous expectations surrounding both him and the league.

Ronaldo delivers again in the defining moment

Much of the pre-match focus had centered on whether Ronaldo could produce one more decisive contribution in a title-defining clash. The 41-year-old answered in the way he has done throughout his entire career: by finding the net twice when the pressure was at its highest.

The goal added another chapter to an astonishing scoring story that has stretched across Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al-Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Even after all these years, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remained the focal point of the Knight of Najd’s attack throughout the campaign.

Before the final round, Ronaldo had already scored 26 Saudi Pro League goals in 29 matches. Although Julian Quinones finished ahead in the Golden Boot race, Ronaldo still ended the season as one of the division’s most decisive players.

How close Ronaldo is to 1,000 goals

The latest strike also moved Ronaldo even closer to one of the most extraordinary achievements soccer has ever seen. The Al-Nassr captain now has 973 official senior career goals for club and country after scoring in the title-defining victory.

That means Ronaldo is now just 27 goals away from the historic 1,000-goal milestone, a number once considered impossible in modern soccer. His Saudi Pro League tally has now reached 102 goals, while his overall record for Al-Nassr has reached 129.

The consistency has perhaps been the most remarkable part of his recent run. In fact, Ronaldo scored 15 goals in 19 matches during the 2026 calendar year, proving that age has done little to slow his instinct in front of goal.

With the Saudi Pro League season now finished, CR7 will have to continue that pursuit next season. Still, the way he ended the campaign has only increased the belief that he can eventually become the first player in history to officially reach four digits in career goals.

Since joining Al Nassr in December 2022, Ronaldo had been chasing his first official title with the Saudi club. After losing three finals and winning the unofficial 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup, he finally achieved that goal.

The achievement also allows Ronaldo to maintain a remarkable streak: winning at least one title with every club he has played for. Early in his career, he captured the 2002 Portuguese Super Cup with Sporting CP. At Manchester United, he won 10 trophies, including one UEFA Champions League title and three Premier League crowns.

Later, the most successful stretch of his career came with Real Madrid, where Ronaldo won 16 trophies, including two La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies. With Juventus, he added five domestic titles, while with the Portugal national team, he won the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League trophies.

Lionel Messi’s titles

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s 36 titles are impressive, they still fall short compared to Lionel Messi’s record. The Argentine forward not only leads this comparison but is also the most decorated player in soccer history with 48 trophies.

Most of Messi’s titles came during his 17 years with Barcelona, where he won 35 trophies, including four Champions League titles and 10 La Liga championships. At Paris Saint-Germain, Leo added three more trophies, while with Argentina, he claimed six, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup title. More recently, Messi lifted three trophies with Inter Miami: the 2023 Leagues Cup, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and the 2025 MLS Cup.

Messi leads all-time trophy rankings

With his Saudi Pro League triumph, Cristiano Ronaldo is now just one title away from breaking into the top 10 players with the most trophies in soccer history. Once there, he would join legends such as Lionel Messi, Dani Alves, Andres Iniesta, Karim Benzema, and Gerard Pique.

Here is the list of players with the most trophies in soccer history:

1- Lionel Messi (48)
2- Dani Alves (43)
3- Marquinhos (42)
4- Andres Iniesta (40)
4- Hossam Hassan (40)
6- David Alaba (39)
6- Hossam Ashour (39)
8- Karim Benzema (38)
8- Gerard Pique (38)
10- Maxwell (37)
11- Sergio Busquets (36)
11- Angel Di Maria (36)
11- Cristiano Ronaldo (36)
11- Ryan Giggs (36)
11- Ibrahim Hassan (36)

By capturing the league crown, Ronaldo ended a three-year and four months wait to hoist an official trophy with the club. The Portuguese icon made his official debut on January 22, 2023, and had since been repeatedly frustrated in his quest to lift recognized silverware in the Middle East.

The only tournament Ronaldo had previously celebrated with Al Nassr was the Arab Club Champions Cup, where he famously led his team to victory with a brilliant brace against Al Hilal. However, that tournament is not officially recognized by FIFA or the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), meaning it never counted toward Cristiano’s legendary official career statistics.

Cristiano had a golden opportunity to collect multiple trophies this season after spearheading Al Nassr’s run to the AFC Champions League Two final. However, despite entering the match as heavy favorites on their home turf, Al Nassr suffered a shocking 1-0 upset at the hands of Japan’s Gamba Osaka, leaving Ronaldo empty-handed on the continental stage.

Ronaldo finally capitalizes on silverware opportunity

After letting the AFC Champions League Two title slip through his fingers, Cristiano was determined not to let another golden opportunity pass him by to finish the club campaign empty-handed once again.

Prior to this league triumph, Ronaldo had endured a painful streak of four consecutive final defeats with Al Nassr. The club finished as runners-up in the King’s Cup (2023-24), back-to-back Saudi Super Cups (2024-25 and 2025-26), and the aforementioned recent AFC Champions League Two collapse.

Cristiano ends long club trophy drought

Beyond simply snapping his dry spell with Al Nassr, this league triumph also marks the end of a staggering five-year personal drought for Cristiano without a club trophy.

Before lifting the Saudi Pro League trophy, the Portuguese superstar’s last official piece of club silverware came back in 2021 during his tenure with Juventus, when the Italian giants defeated Atalanta 2-1 to claim the Coppa Italia.

Success had been elusive for CR7 in Saudi Arabia, as he had failed to win an official title since arriving at the club in early 2023. His only previous triumph had been the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup, a tournament not officially recognized by FIFA.

That gives special significance to Thursday’s achievement, since it not only represents his first trophy with Al Nassr, but also allows him to maintain an impressive record that very few players can claim: Ronaldo has won at least one title with every club he has played for.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s first title came with Sporting CP

Cristiano Ronaldo’s career began with the success that would define the following years. In the only season he played with Sporting CP, he won his first professional trophy by defeating Leixoes in the 2002 Supertaca Candido de Oliveira, the annual competition contested by the winners of Portugal’s top league and domestic cup.

Ronaldo’s titles with Manchester United

The major breakthrough in CR7’s career came in 2003, when he left Sporting CP to join one of Europe’s biggest clubs: Manchester United. There, under coach Sir Alex Ferguson, the forward developed into the best player in the world, a status cemented by his 2008 Ballon d’Or win.

Between 2003 and 2009, Cristiano won 10 trophies with the Red Devils. The most important was the 2007-08 UEFA Champions League title, alongside Premier League crowns in 2007, 2008, and 2009, the 2004 FA Cup, the 2006 and 2009 EFL Cups, the 2007 and 2008 Community Shields, and the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup.

Ronaldo shines with Real Madrid

After starring in England, Cristiano Ronaldo was signed by Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 in a move that helped define an era of soccer through his battles with Barcelona’s Lionel Messi for global supremacy.

With Los Blancos, CR7 scored 450 goals between 2009 and 2018, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer while helping the team win 16 trophies. The most important were the four Champions League titles captured in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018. Those victories also led to additional honors, including the FIFA Club World Cups in 2014, 2016, and 2017, as well as the UEFA Super Cups in those same years.

Domestically, Real Madrid enjoyed less success because Barcelona dominated many of the trophies during that era. Even so, the club still won two La Liga titles (2012 and 2017), two Copa del Rey trophies (2011 and 2014), and two Spanish Super Cups (2012 and 2017).

Cristiano Ronaldo’s titles with Juventus

In 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid parted ways, leading to his move to Juventus. There, the forward won the Serie A titles in 2019 and 2020, along with the 2018 and 2020 Supercoppa Italiana and the 2021 Coppa Italia.

Cristiano Ronaldo ends title drought with Al Nassr

After an unsuccessful return to Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo made the surprising decision in December 2022 to leave Europe for the first time in his career and join Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr. From that moment, he began a three-and-a-half-year wait for his first official trophy with the club: the Saudi Pro League title won on Thursday.

Portugal reaches glory with Ronaldo

In addition to his club success, Cristiano Ronaldo has also captured major honors with the Portugal national team. Before CR7’s international debut, Portugal had never won an official trophy. That drought ended with the UEFA Euro 2016 title, followed by the UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.

All Cristiano Ronaldo trophies

Sporting CP (1)

• 2002 Supertaca Candido de Oliveira

Manchester United (10)

• FA Cup 2003-04
• EFL Cup 2005-06, 2008-09
• Premier League 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09
• Community Shield 2007, 2008
• UEFA Champions League 2007-08
• FIFA Club World Cup 2008

Real Madrid (16)

• Copa del Rey 2010-11, 2013-14
• La Liga 2011-12, 2016-17
• Supercopa de España 2012, 2017
• UEFA Champions League 2013-14, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18
• UEFA Super Cup 2014, 2016, 2017
• FIFA Club World Cup 2014, 2016, 2017

Juventus (5)

• Serie A 2018-19, 2019-20
• Supercoppa Italiana 2018, 2020
• Coppa Italia 2020-21

Al Nassr (1)

• Saudi Pro League 2025-26

Portugal (3)

• UEFA Euro 2016
• UEFA Nations League 2018-19, 2024-25

According to TV Azteca reporter David Medrano, the head coach has already settled on 24 of the 26 players who will represent Mexico at North America 2026. One of the remaining spots is expected to go to a defender, either a full-back or a center back, while the other will likely be filled by an attacking midfielder or forward.

The national team insider reviewed the list of players competing for those final two spots in Aguirre’s plans: Luis Chavez, Richard Ledezma, Julian Araujo, German Berterame, Jesus Angulo, and Everardo Lopez.

Among them, the most experienced player at the international level is Luis Chavez, who was part of Mexico’s squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and played a major role under Gerardo Martino. However, a serious knee injury suffered during the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup kept him sidelined until March of this year, when he returned to action with Dinamo Moscow.

Meanwhile, the other attacking player on that short list is German Berterame, who has gradually found strong form with Inter Miami in MLS. In the defensive battle, Everardo Lopez and Richard Ledezma appear to have the edge after seeing extensive playing time under Aguirre in recent months.

Mexico players with spots nearly secured for the World Cup

Beyond those two reportedly contested spots, Javier Aguirre appears to have a clear picture of the 24 players expected to form the core of Mexico’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to reporter David Medrano, these are the players whose spots are nearly secured:

Goalkeepers: Raul Rangel, Guillermo Ochoa, Carlos Acevedo

Defenders: Israel Reyes, Jesus Gallardo, Jorge Sanchez, Mateo Chavez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez

Midfielders: Edson Alvarez, Luis Romo, Gilberto Mora, Erik Lira, Brian Gutierrez, Roberto Alvarado, Alvaro Fidalgo, Obed Vargas, Alexis Vega, Orbelin Pineda

Forwards: Raul Jimenez, Santiago Gimenez, Julian Quinones, Armando Gonzalez, Guillermo Martinez

What’s next for Mexico?

This Friday, Mexico will play one of its final warmup matches before the World Cup against Ghana, followed by another friendly against Australia on May 30. After that match, Javier Aguirre is expected to finalize the 26-man roster, considering FIFA’s deadline is June 1. Mexico’s final match before the World Cup will be against Serbia on Thursday, June 4.

According to ESPN Argentina national team insider Gustavo Yarroch, Martinez will undergo further medical scans on his hand, but the finger injury will not sideline the goalkeeper or impede his ability to play.

Consequently, Martinez is expected to feature without issue in Aston Villa’s final Premier League match of the season away against Manchester City. Barring any unforeseen setbacks, he will be fully available for Argentina’s upcoming pre-World Cup friendlies and the marquee tournament in North America.

Following the Europa League trophy celebration, Martinez confessed that he actually broke his finger during the pre-match warm-ups. Defying the pain, the Argentine played the full 90 minutes between the posts for Villa, proving crucial in securing the continental silverware.

Scaloni reportedly considering extra goalkeeper for World Cup squad

While Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has yet to officially unveil his provisional roster for the 2026 World Cup, Martinez’s spot as the undisputed starting goalkeeper is set in stone. Nevertheless, ESPN reports suggest that the manager is considering bringing a fourth goalkeeper along with the delegation.

The player in question is River Plate’s Santiago Beltran, who has showcased remarkable composure and consistency since being promoted to the first team—a rare feat for such a young keeper. In 24 appearances, the 21-year-old prospect has conceded just 15 goals while racking up 12 clean sheets, guiding his team to 15 wins, four draws, and five losses.

Crucially, Scaloni’s intention is to call up Beltran primarily as a training partner to work alongside the senior squad throughout the World Cup campaign, effectively serving as the 27th member of the delegation.

Under official FIFA regulations, final tournament rosters are strictly capped at 26 players, meaning Beltran would only be eligible to enter the official matchday squad if one of the three primary goalkeepers suffers a tournament-ending injury.

The exact prize for the Saudi Pro League champion has not been made public. The most recently disclosed figure came in 2023, when Al Ittihad earned SR5 million, which would be about $1.33 million if that amount stayed the same. Al Nassr’s current two-point lead means a win over Damac would seal the title.

If Al Hilal do not beat Al Fayha, they could also be crowned champions. However, if Al Nassr fail to win, everything will depend on Al Hilal. A win would give them the title even if the teams finish level on points, since the head-to-head tiebreaker favors them after their 3-1 win in the first meeting and the recent draw.

Al Nassr’s lost final

Saturday did not bring a Saudi Pro League title for Al Nassr. But that was not their only chance to lift a trophy, as they also faced Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final in Riyadh.

Even after the disappointment in their most recent match last Tuesday, they still had a chance to make up for it in front of their fans with a winnable final, but that did not happen.

Al Nassr had been perfect throughout their continental run before falling in the worst possible match. Gamba Osaka took a first-half lead and never looked back, going on to win the title 1-0 and surprising most observers.

Ronaldo’s numbers

Ronaldo has continued to score as his team closes in on its first titles in some time, even after his arrival was expected to deliver them sooner. He has played 29 Saudi Pro League matches and scored 26 goals, one King Cup match without scoring, four AFC Champions League Two matches with one goal, and two Saudi Super Cup matches with one goal. That leaves him on 36 matches and 28 goals across those competitions.

The official squad announcement is scheduled for Friday, May 22, but Tuchel has been quietly delivering the difficult news to those who will not be making the trip. The report of Maguire’s omission was first broken by talkSport‘s Alex Crook and subsequently confirmed by the Manchester United defender himself.

In a statement posted to his social media, Maguire made his feelings clear: “I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players, all the best this summer.“

Since Tuchel took charge of the Three Lions at the start of 2025, Maguire was initially unavailable due to a calf injury, and once fit, he went on to miss eight additional international fixtures before finally working his way back into contention during the March break.

He played the full 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Uruguay before making a brief seven-minute appearance in the shocking 1-0 defeat to Japan. Those cameos marked his first appearances for England since September 2024 under interim manager Lee Carsley, but they were not enough to persuade Tuchel to include him in the World Cup plans.

Since his debut against Lithuania in October 2017, Maguire accumulated 66 international appearances, contributing seven goals and two assists, and was part of the squad that reached the 2018 World Cup semifinal and finished runners-up at Euro 2020. Now 33, and likely to be 35 by the time Euro 2028 comes around, his international career may well have reached its end.

Who will take Maguire’s place in the squad?

With Maguire out of the picture, attention turns to who will cover the center back positions for England at the tournament. Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa and Manchester City’s Marc Guéhi are expected to be Tuchel’s two first-choice starters in that department, leaving limited room for additional options.

Dan Burn has also been a regular in Tuchel’s setups and is widely expected to make the final squad. Meanwhile, the status of John Stones remains uncertain, and Chelsea’s Levi Colwill is also believed to be in contention for a place despite dealing with injury issues this season, according to talkSport.

Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Al Nassr FC, being in full physical condition. While he comes from two games without scoring, the Portuguese striker has shown a great ability to shine in high-pressure moments. In addition, the 41-year-old star managed to score in the previous match between both teams, giving signs that it could happen again today, as he looks to close the gap in the top scorers table.

Coupled with Cristiano Ronaldo, head coach Jorge Jesus will repeat the successful setup with João Félix. In addition, Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman will be the options on the wings, as they come in strong form with Al Nassr. Being one of the best attacking teams, they aim to dominate heavily from a goalscoring perspective, as their opponent is one of the teams with the most defensive instability.

Unlike Al Nassr FC, Damac are not coming from their best season. With only 29 points, they are fighting to avoid relegation, battling with Al Riyadh SC, meaning they absolutely need a victory. However, they have not shined from a defensive perspective, conceding 51 goals. Despite this, head coach Fábio Carille could opt for an offensive approach, seeking to take advantage of the spaces behind the defense of Cristiano Ronaldo’s team in order to search for a victory.

Al Nassr confirmed lineup vs Damac

After their dominant season, Al Nassr arrive as clear favorites to take the victory against Damac, as they have not lost against them since 2021. However, head coach Jorge Jesus will not be able to count on Marcelo Brozović and Sultan Al-Ghannam due to injury. Despite this, they still maintain their main stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix, who will be boosted by the speed and dribbling ability of Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman.

With this in mind, Al Nassr will lineup as follows: Bento Krepski; Nawaf Boushal, Mohamed Simakan, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Inigo Martinez; Kingsley Coman, Ayman Yahya, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Sadio Mane; Joao Félix, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Damac confirmed lineup vs Al Nassr

Damac arrive with the urgent need to secure a victory against Al Nassr, as they need to avoid relegation. Goalkeeper Kewin Silva could be vital in preventing Cristiano Ronaldo or João Félix from shining.

Considering this, they could lineup as follows: Kewin; Sanousi Al-Hawsawi, Jamal Harkass, Abdelkader Bedrane, Abdulrahman Al-Obaid; Hasssan Rabei, Abdu, Dhari Al Anazi, Morlaye Sylla, Arielson, Jonathan Okita.

The Lions of Teranga are preparing for another important World Cup campaign under head coach Pape Thiaw, and the squad list has already generated discussion about possible tactical decisions, late cuts, and emerging talents hoping to secure a place on the plane to North America. However, according to the BBC, the 28-player list is not the country’s official final squad but rather a provisional selection ahead of FIFA’s submission deadline.

Under FIFA regulations, national teams are permitted to announce preliminary groups before reducing them to the official tournament limit. In fact, federations can initially register significantly larger pools before confirming the final 26-player roster required for the competition.

That flexibility has allowed Senegal to take extra players into training camp while the coaching staff continues evaluating fitness levels, tactical balance, and overall squad chemistry. The final decision must still be made before the official FIFA deadline in early June. “Thiaw will have to trim his squad to the FIFA-mandated 26 players ahead of the final deadline on 2 June,” BBC’s report explained.

Why Senegal wanted extra players

The decision to include two additional players gives the coaching staff more room to assess the squad during preparations. Senegal is expected to use training sessions and friendly matches to determine which players are fully ready for the tournament. “The extra two players give the coaching staff a buffer to assess player fitness, tactical cohesion, and form during the preparatory training camp and initial friendly matches,” the BBC added.

This approach is especially important ahead of a long and demanding competition. Injuries, fatigue from club soccer, and travel schedules all play a role when national teams prepare for a World Cup tournament expected to last from 11 June to 19 July.

The expanded roster also protects Senegal in case any late injury concerns emerge before the official submission deadline. Rather than scrambling for replacements at the last minute, the staff already has additional players integrated into camp.

Two players will eventually miss out

Although the announcement created excitement, it also means that difficult decisions are approaching. Senegal must reduce the group from 28 players down to the final 26-man squad before the tournament officially begins. For the players involved, the coming weeks will carry enormous pressure. Every training session, friendly match, and tactical exercise could influence the coaching staff’s final judgment.

The nation’s preparation schedule also explains why the national team preferred to keep a larger group together for the early stages of camp. The Teranga Lions are set to play important pre-tournament friendlies before finalizing the roster.

Senegal will face the United States on May 31 before taking on Saudi Arabia on June 10. Those matches are expected to provide valuable tactical insight for Thiaw and his coaching staff ahead of the World Cup opener.

Once the final squad is confirmed, Senegal will turn full attention toward a challenging Group I campaign. The African giant has been drawn alongside France, Norway, and Iraq, creating one of the most competitive groups of the tournament.

Head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that Marcelo Brozović will not be part of Al Nassr’s squad for the match against Damac FC. After leaving with discomfort in the groin area against Al Hilal SFC, he has not managed to fully recover, as the latest medical examinations did not give him the green light to train with the group, reports Asharq Al-Awsat. With this in mind, they will have to adjust their midfield without one of their best stars.

In place of the Croatian star, Saad Al Nasser could return to the starting lineup after shining against Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two. Alongside him, Jorge Jesus could once again rely on Ali Al Hassan, who has been a regular starter throughout the season. Without another world-class star in midfield, Al Nassr could lose a lot of consistency, as Marcelo Brozović not only provides offensive consistency, but also organizes the team throughout the game.

Report: Marcelo Brozovic is expected to remain at Al Nassr

Throughout the 2025-26 season, the future of Marcelo Brozović has been a fairly controversial topic. Being an undisputed starter for Jorge Jesus, the Croatian’s contract expires in June 2026 and his renewal has not yet been announced. Although he has been a somewhat divisive figure, Al Nassr are already pushing to secure his continuity, and are reportedly very close to ensuring the 33-year-old star remains at the club.

According to Al Youm newspaper, Al Nassr have reached an agreement to extend the contract of Marcelo Brozović. However, the agreement has not yet been officially announced, as the player’s representatives still have some formalities to complete before it becomes official. With this in mind, the Croatian midfielder appears set to remain in the Saudi Pro League, despite interest from several European clubs.

Al Nassr’s Jorge Jesus may press to sign another midfielder

Despite keeping Marcelo Brozović as a starter,Jorge Jesus could look to increase squad depth by signing a star midfielder. While Ângelo and Ali Al Hassan have accompanied the Croatian, Al Nassr have struggled to find consistency, suggesting that a box-to-box midfielder may be needed to complement the team. With this, they could aim to both enhance the 33-year-old star’s impact and build for the future at the same time.

While numerous players such as Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, among others, have been linked, they have not reached an agreement with any of them. However, the continuity of Jorge Jesus could be conditioned by the squad adjustments, as he has stated on multiple occasions that he needs greater depth to maintain high competitiveness across all competitions.

“Mohammed Ouahbi calls up a group of players for a preparatory training camp ahead of the final 2026 FIFA World Cup squad announcement,” Morocco shared Thursday in a post on its official X account.

That roster is not binding for the World Cup, and it consists of 28 players who are already available to join the national team and begin training at the Mohammed VI Complex between May 22 and May 26. The coaching staff intends to use those days to evaluate players and make final decisions before selecting the 26-man roster for the tournament.

The players called up by Ouahbi currently play for clubs in Morocco or in countries where league seasons have already ended. That includes France’s Ligue 1, where players such as Gomis Ibrahim (Olympique Marseille), Ait Boudlal Abdelhamid (Stade Rennais), and Bouaddi Ayyoud (Lille) are based.

Hakimi and Morocco’s other stars

Unlike Ligue 1, which has already concluded its 2025-26 season, and other leagues such as the Netherlands’ Eredivisie or the Super League Greece, which are in the final stages of their playoffs, several European leagues still have matches remaining. That makes it impossible for players to leave early and join their respective national teams.

In Morocco’s case, that situation affects several of the squad’s biggest stars. La Liga will play Matchday 38 this weekend, after which Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid), Abde Ezzalzouli and Sofyan Amrabat (Real Betis), and Azzedine Ounahi (Girona) will become available. The same applies in Italy with AS Roma’s Neil El Aynaoui and in the Premier League with Manchester United’s Noussair Mazraoui.

Bono will play his final match of the season with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League on Thursday. Hakimi, meanwhile, has already finished his Ligue 1 campaign, but he still has the UEFA Champions League final ahead with Paris Saint-Germain against Arsenal. As a result, he will not be able to join Morocco’s training camp until after May 30.

Morocco aiming to make history again

At Qatar 2022, Morocco became the best-performing African national team in World Cup history by reaching the semifinals. The team lost to France there before finishing fourth after a defeat against Croatia.

Now Morocco face the challenge of matching or improving that achievement. As part of Group C, the team will open its North America 2026 campaign against Brazil on Saturday, June 13, before facing Scotland and Haiti.

For months, uncertainty surrounded Neuer’s international future after the veteran goalkeeper stepped away following Euro 2024. Yet Nagelsmann ultimately decided that experience, leadership, and composure on the biggest stage were too valuable to ignore ahead of a tournament that could define the next chapter of German soccer.

The biggest revelation from the squad announcement was undoubtedly Neuer’s comeback at the age of 40. The Bayern Munich goalkeeper had repeatedly insisted his international retirement was final, even describing the decision earlier this year as “set in stone.”

That position changed after discussions with Nagelsmann, who made it clear he wanted the veteran back between the posts for the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. “After many discussions, we understood that the three best goalkeepers in Germany should be at the World Cup. That’s why we spoke with Manuel, and he agreed to return. We plan with him as number 1,” the manager explained.

The decision came at a cost for Oliver Baumann, who had expected to remain the DFB-Team’s first-choice goalkeeper after featuring heavily during qualifying. Nagelsmann openly admitted the situation was difficult for the Hoffenheim keeper, describing Neuer’s return as “a blow” for Baumann after months of believing the role belonged to him.

Germany finally reveals the full squad

As anticipation built around Neuer’s comeback, attention soon shifted toward the rest of Germany’s final selection for the tournament. Nagelsmann eventually confirmed a squad packed with Bundesliga experience, Premier League quality, and several emerging talents viewed as the future of the national team.

Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Alexander Nubel (Stuttgart)

Defenders: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), David Raum (Leipzig), Jonathan Tah (Bayern Munich), Waldemar Anton (Borussia Dortmund), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid), Nathaniel Brown (Eintracht Frankfurt), Malick Thiaw (Newcastle)

Midfielders: Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Florian Wirtz (Liverpool), Lennart Karl (Bayern Munich), Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart), Aleksandar Pavlovic (Bayern Munich), Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich), Leroy Sane (Galatasaray), Felix Nmecha (Borussia Dortmund), Nadiem Amiri (Mainz), Pascal Gross (Brighton and Hove Albion)

Forwards: Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Deniz Undav (Stuttgart), Jamie Leweling (Stuttgart), Nick Woltemade (Newcastle), Maximilian Beier (Borussia Dortmund)

One notable absentee remains Gnabry, whose season-ending injury following Bayern Munich’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid ruled him out of contention. His absence leaves Germany without one of its most dangerous wide attackers during a tournament where attacking depth could become decisive.

Germany searching for redemption

Germany enters the World Cup under enormous pressure after consecutive group-stage eliminations in 2018 and 2022. Since lifting the trophy in Brazil in 2014, the national team has struggled to match expectations on the world stage.

Nagelsmann knows expectations remain high despite the recent disappointments. “I think we’re well prepared,” the German coach said. “We need to let our actions do the talking. That is why I’m glad that things are finally about to get underway.”

The national team opens its campaign against Curacao before later facing the Ivory Coast and Ecuador in Group E. Warm-up matches against Finland and the United States are expected to help finalize tactical details before the tournament officially begins.

The Lions of Teranga head into the tournament carrying high expectations after unveiling a squad packed with experience, youth, and attacking quality. While much of the early focus has centered around Mane’s leadership, the depth throughout the squad suggests Senegal believes it can challenge some of the biggest nations in world soccer.

According to the Senegal Football Federation (FSF), head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw has retained the core of the side that has represented the nation during recent international tournaments. The squad includes several familiar stars who helped establish Senegal as one of Africa’s elite national teams over the last decade.

Kalidou Koulibaly, Edouard Mendy, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Nicolas Jackson, and Mane all return, giving the team a strong spine filled with leadership and tournament experience. At the same time, the nation continues to invest heavily in younger players capable of taking the national team into a new era. Talents such as Lamine Camara, Pape Matar Sarr, and Assane Diao are expected to play important roles during the competition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Senegal finally reveals the full squad

Even with Senegal introducing younger players, Mane remains the emotional and tactical centerpiece of the squad. The 34-year-old continues to carry enormous influence both on and off the pitch. The tournament also carries added meaning for the former Liverpool star after he missed the 2022 World Cup through injury.

His return gives the team an experienced forward capable of delivering in major moments. While the introduction surrounding the squad announcement focused heavily on the Al-Nassr star, the complete list revealed an impressive collection of talent spread across every department of the pitch.

Goalkeepers: Edouard Mendy (Al-Ahli), Mory Diaw (Le Havre AC), Yehvann Diouf (Nice)

Defenders: Krepin Diatta (Monaco), Antoine Mendy (Nice), Kalidou Koulibaly (Al-Hilal), El Hadji Malick Diouf (West Ham), Mamadou Sarr (Chelsea), Moussa Niakhate (Lyon), Moustapha Mbow (Paris FC), Abdoulaye Seck (Maccabi Haifa), Ismaïl Jakobs (Galatasaray), Ilay Camara (Anderlecht)

Midfielders: Idrissa Gana Gueye (Everton), Pape Gueye (Villarreal), Lamine Camara (Monaco), Habib Diarra (Sunderland), Pathe Ciss (Rayo Vallecano), Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham), Bara Sapoko Ndiaye (Bayern Munich)

Forwards: Sadio Mane (Al-Nassr), Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton), Assane Diao (Como), Ibrahim Mbaye (PSG), Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea), Bamba Dieng (Lorient), Cherif Ndiaye (Samsunspor)

Group that has Europe watching

Senegal’s placement in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Iraq immediately turned attention toward what could become one of the most competitive groups of the tournament. France enters the World Cup as one of the favorites with Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele leading the attack, while Norway will rely heavily on Haaland’s firepower.

That combination makes Senegal’s squad announcement even more significant. The African giant clearly believes they possess enough quality to challenge both European sides and potentially advance deep into the knockout rounds.

Their opening match against France on June 16 in New Jersey already carries huge emotional significance. The fixture revives memories of Senegal’s famous 1-0 victory over the reigning world champion during the 2002 World Cup, one of the greatest upsets in tournament history.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or winner triggered panic during the club’s final Ligue 1 match against Paris FC when, in the 27th minute, he signaled to the bench and requested a substitution. The optics worsened when, instead of taking a seat among the substitutes, he walked straight down the tunnel into the locker room.

Despite the initial scare, the French winger downplayed the severity of the situation in an interview with RMC Sport, stating he feels great and is ready to face Arsenal. “I’m doing very well. I had a little scare against Paris FC, but I’m fine and I’ll be ready for the final,” Dembele noted.

To further calm supporters’ nerves, the former Barcelona attacker emphasized that he has no reservations about his physical fitness heading into the decisive May 30 clash. “Will I be at 100% for the final? Yes, yes, I think so, I’ll be ready. I have no doubts about it, and I expect to be on the pitch on May 30,” he added.

Dembele’s grueling injury history

Dembele has notoriously lacked luck when it comes to durability throughout his career. The French forward has endured an array of physical setbacks that have sidelined him from high-stakes matches for Barcelona, the France national team, and PSG alike.

During his tenure with the Spanish giants, Dembele suffered more than a dozen distinct injuries that knocked him out of crucial Champions League knockout ties. Most notably, he essentially missed the entire 2019-2020 campaign due to severe hamstring tears.

While on international duty with France, Dembele suffered a ruptured biceps femoris tendon in his right knee during the Euro 2020 group stage against Hungary. The injury not only prematurely ended his tournament run but also sidelined him for four months.

He has not been completely immune to setbacks with his current club either. During this season’s Champions League campaign, he was forced off during a league-phase match against Bayern Munich and subsequently missed the playoff knockout rounds against Monaco.

Determined not to miss the final

Given his extensive history in the medical room, the player acknowledged that his early exit against Paris FC was purely a precautionary measure to avoid missing yet another monumental showcase.

“I’ve had so many minor scares or serious injuries in my career, whether here at PSG or even before. With such massive games on the horizon, especially this final, I preferred to stop and, above all, not take any risks,” he told RMC Sport.

Match Overview

The Saudi Pro League title race reaches a critical moment as Al Nassr host Damac in a matchup loaded with pressure on both sides. Led by Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr sits first in the standings with 83 points, holding a slim two-point lead over Al Hilal and knowing a win would secure the league title without needing help elsewhere.

Damac, meanwhile, enters the finale battling to avoid relegation with 29 points, as Al-Riyadh SC remains within striking distance. With the championship and survival both on the line, this showdown is shaping up to be a must-watch finish to the season.

The title race has become one of the most dramatic finishes in recent Saudi Pro League history. Al-Nassr controls its destiny, but the margin for error has disappeared completely after recent dropped points and the painful late equalizer conceded against Al-Hilal in the Riyadh derby.

The 2025-26 campaign has tested Al-Nassr emotionally from start to finish. Jorge Jesus’ side looked ready to celebrate the title last week before Bento’s stoppage-time own goal denied the club victory in a tense derby draw against Al-Hilal. Just days later, the disappointment deepened with a 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, increasing the pressure surrounding the final league fixture.

That result left Ronaldo and his teammates with one last opportunity to turn the season into a success. Despite the recent setbacks, the numbers still favor Al-Nassr. The club has recorded 27 wins, two draws, and only four defeats, scoring 87 goals while conceding just 27 across 33 league matches.

Meanwhile, Al-Hilal has continued to apply pressure without losing ground. The defending challenger has collected 81 points and remained unbeaten through 33 games, setting up a dramatic finish with both title contenders playing at the same time on Matchday 34.

What happens if Al-Nassr wins against Damac?

This is the simplest scenario in the title race. If Al-Nassr defeats Damac, the club officially becomes the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League champion regardless of Al-Hilal’s result against Al-Fayha. A victory would move Al-Nassr to 86 points, putting the trophy beyond the reach of every rival.

It would also secure Cristiano Ronaldo’s first Saudi Pro League title since arriving in the Middle East. The atmosphere inside Al-Awwal Park is expected to be electric if the team gets the job done. Al-Nassr has already gone unbeaten in its last nine home league matches, winning eight of those games.

What happens if Al-Nassr draws against Damac?

A draw would open the door for chaos across Riyadh. If Al-Nassr finishes level against Damac and Al-Hilal defeats Al-Fayha, both clubs would end the season tied on 84 points. Under Saudi Pro League regulations, the first tiebreaker is head-to-head record rather than goal difference.

Because Al-Hilal holds the advantage in the derby meetings across the season, Al-Hilal would overtake Al-Nassr and win the title. However, if Karim Benzema’s side also drops points by drawing or losing against Al-Fayha, Al-Nassr would remain champion.

That possibility means fans will likely spend the evening following events in both stadiums simultaneously. The tension surrounding this scenario explains why the late equalizer against Al-Hilal last week felt so devastating for Jorge Jesus’ side.

What happens if Al-Nassr loses against Damac?

A defeat would create the most dangerous situation for Ronaldo and his teammates. If Al-Nassr loses and Al-Hilal beats Al-Fayha, the title slips away immediately. In that case, Al-Hilal would finish on 84 points while Al-Nassr would stay on 83.

Months of dominance at the top of the table would disappear on the final night of the season. If Al-Hilal also fails to win, Al-Nassr could still survive the scare and secure the championship despite defeat. But relying on help from another stadium is the last thing Jorge Jesus wants after leading the table for so much of the campaign.

On Tuesday, Martinez held a press conference at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras to unveil a 27-player list for the upcoming tournament, the extra spot accounting for a backup goalkeeper in case of injury. The spotlight, however, fell squarely on Ronaldo, who is now set to appear at his sixth World Cup, a record he is expected to share with Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Mexico’s Guillermo Ochoa.

When asked directly about managing a 41-year-old Ronaldo during the tournament, Martínez was measured and clear in his response. “The management will be handled very naturally. We already have plenty of data; we are talking about nearly 40 matches together. Ronaldo is our captain. He faces the same demands as the other players and the same competitiveness to be in the national team,” the Spanish coach said.

Martínez also made a point of emphasizing Ronaldo’s value beyond his performances on the pitch. “He is an exemplary captain. He was highly important for us in winning the Nations League, and now we want that same level of responsibility and example inside the locker room,” he added.

It is worth noting that despite being in the twilight of his career, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the top scorer under Roberto Martinez’s watch with Portugal. Across the 38 games Martinez has overseen, the Selecao have scored 109 goals, with Ronaldo contributing 25 of them in 30 appearances, nearly a quarter of the total, having sat out eight games for various reasons.

What’s next for Portugal?

Martinez announced that Portugal’s World Cup training camp will begin on June 1, with all players granted at least seven days of rest before reporting for duty at the Cidade do Futebol. The PSG contingent of Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Joao Neves and Goncalo Ramos, who are set to feature in the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal on May 30th, will miss the start of the camp.

Portugal will play two preparatory friendlies during the early June window, the first against Chile on the 6th and the second against Nigeria on the 10th, both to be held on home soil before the squad departs for North America.

Drawn into Group K, Portugal will be based in Palm Beach, Florida, opening their World Cup campaign on June 17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston. They will then face debutants Uzbekistan on June 23 before closing out the group stage against Colombia on June 27.

De la Fuente said: “The group of players is set. It’s possible I’ll call up a player who hasn’t been here before. The goalkeeper is decided. I could even tell you the lineup. There will be three goalkeepers, not four.”

While the manager did not name that player, one name that has recently gained a lot of attention is Gavi, who has been excellent for Barcelona: “We haven’t given him anything. He has earned it himself after overcoming two very serious injuries. He is in a very good moment. When he is not there, he is a player you really miss.”

De la Fuente on Dani Carvajal

A major name that was left out of the list was Dani Carvajal. The right back was outstanding for Real Madrid two years ago and even scored in the Champions League final, but after his knee injury in October 2023, he has not been able to repeat that level.

This time may not be ideal for Carvajal, as he will not make the squad, not because his performances have not been good enough, but due to a recent injury that has put his fitness in doubt in doubt and he has missed time while trying to get back in shape.

De la Fuente all but confirmed that Carvajal was not going to be back in time after suffering a fracture of the distal phalanx of the fifth toe: “He is a great captain, but it was difficult for him to be in condition to play.”

De la Fuente on his hardest decision

The coach also reflected on his career. De la Fuente said leaving a major name out of the team was the hardest decision he has made since becoming Spain’s national team coach: “The hardest decision since I became national team coach was not calling up Sergio Ramos.”

Alongside Luis Suarez, Messi and Neymar formed one of the most lethal attacking trios the game has ever seen, and the Argentine and Brazilian later had a brief reunion at PSG. Beyond the pitch, life has placed the two legends on opposite sides on the biggest stages, including with a trophy directly on the line.

One of those moments came in the 2021 Copa America final, where after Messi finally captured his first major international honor with Argentina, Neymar sought him out on the field and embraced both Messi and Leandro Paredes, despite being visibly heartbroken. “Messi and Paredes are phenomenal guys and people off the pitch. As much as they are Argentine, and therefore rivals of Brazil by nature, they became friends. We found a bit of happiness within the chaos of all that,” Neymar said in a conversation on CONMEBOL’s official website.

The match carried a particularly heavy emotional weight for Neymar, who had missed Brazil‘s 2019 Copa América triumph through injury and was carrying the burden of leading the hosts at the Maracana in a final they desperately wanted to win. “Regardless of the shirt you wear or the country you are from, everyone is a human being; everyone has feelings, joys, and they are friends,” he reflected on the conversation he had with the Argentines on a staircase at the Maracana.

Perhaps no image captured that moment more powerfully than the photograph of both players embracing on the field, one overcome with joy, the other with grief. The picture sparked some debate over whether the timing was appropriate given the circumstances, but it was also widely received as a genuine reflection of the friendship between two of the game’s all-time greats.

Addressing the significance of that image, Neymar offered a thoughtful reflection on what it means to him. “Messi is the number one in football, and I have my own space in the game. This photo means a lot because of that: it’s two guys who fought for the title in the final, gave 100%, and post-match, we managed to find a moment of happiness, both for the guy who became champion and for the guy who was defeated,” he said.

A Brazil vs. Argentina final in the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup is now less than a month away, and one of the most talked-about moments of the buildup has been Neymar’s confirmation in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad. Before that announcement was made official, the Santos forward had already made clear what he was hoping for, both in terms of his own participation and a special reunion with Messi.

In the mixed zone following Santos’ 1-1 draw against San Lorenzo back in April, Neymar said he hoped to be at the World Cup, and when asked specifically about the prospect of facing Messi, he did not hold back. “Yes, of course. Also, a final between Brazil and Argentina would be spectacular,” he said.

With Brazil placed in Group C and Argentina in Group J, the South American giants are on a collision course for a semifinal matchup if both win their respective groups. However, if either side advances as a group runner-up, a blockbuster showdown in the final becomes possible, meaning Neymar’s dream of facing Messi on the world’s biggest stage remains a realistic possibility if both powerhouses make a deep run.

The Villans were desperate to make history in Istanbul by securing their first major European silverware since their 1982 European Cup triumph over Bayern Munich and the subsequent 1983 European Super Cup win against Barcelona. But panic rippled through the fanbase during pre-match warmups when television cameras caught Martinez having his hand heavily examined by Aston Villa’s medical staff.

Ultimately, after taping the injured finger, his spot in the starting XI was never in jeopardy as he logged the full 90 minutes in Aston Villa’s dominant 3-0 win of Freiburg. The Argentine keeper recorded two saves on the night and served as the vital anchor for Unai Emery’s build-up play from the back, completing 26 passes.

The goalkeeper dropped the injury bombshell during his post-match media obligations, reflecting on the historic victory and his current form. “Honestly, it’s a source of pride. I keep growing game by game. Today, I broke my finger during the warmup, but for me, every cloud has a silver lining. I’ve done this my whole life. And I keep doing it,‘ Martinez revealed during an interview with ESPN.

When pressed on whether the fracture would jeopardize his upcoming international duties, Martinez downplayed the severity, even while describing the gruesome reality of the injury: “I’ve never had a broken finger before. Every time I grabbed the ball, it would bend the other way. But oh well, these are paths you have to cross. I am proud to defend Aston Villa.“

Argentina’s final roster for the 2026 World Cup is expected to be released in the coming days, with La Albiceleste scheduled to face Honduras in a June 6 friendly before tournament play begins. With less than 30 days until Argentina’s World Cup debut against Algeria, the fitness of Martinez, a foundational pillar of the squad alongside Lionel Messi, will be the biggest storyline to monitor.

Martinez’s history with finger fractures

While the recovery timeline for a fractured finger varies by case, this isn’t the first time Martinez has played through this specific type of physical adversity. Back on December 1, 2024, in a Premier League clash against Chelsea, Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson accidentally stepped on Martinez’s pinky finger during a 29th-minute scramble; though the Argentine managed to finish the first half, he was forced to sub out at the intermission.

Aston Villa later clarified that the keeper was also dealing with severe hip pain from the collision, which prompted his early exit. Proving his quick-healing reputation, Martinez was back in the starting lineup just three days later on December 4, backstopping Villa to a 3-1 victory over Brentford.

Martinez’s flawless record in championship finals

After breaking through late in his career, Martinez shocked the global soccer landscape by rapidly ascending to the ranks of the world’s elite goalkeepers. Ever since stepping into the spotlight at Arsenal in 2020 following an injury to Bernd Leno, the Argentine has maintained a flawless, legendary record when everything is on the line.

Martinez boasts a perfect 7-0 record in the seven major cup finals he has contested throughout his career. Beginning with the 2020 FA Cup and Community Shield with Arsenal, his golden touch carried over to the international stage, where he captured the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa America with Argentina before adding the 2026 Europa League to his trophy cabinet.

Soaking in his first piece of silverware with Aston Villa, Martinez grew emotional when evaluating his journey from an unheralded backup to a global champion: “To me, it’s a message from God because of the things that happen to me along the way. Ever since I left Argentina for Arsenal as a kid, it was very hard for me to get games. I came to a club that has a massive mission, that hadn’t won anything for many years. I earned the starting spot for Argentina, we won so many titles, I earned the affection of my country which didn’t know me very well, and I believe I have also won the hearts of all the Villa fans as well.“

Luis Enrique said: “If you look at the team’s numbers, you can clearly see Mikel Arteta’s influence. He has changed the team’s mentality, made them competitive again, and they have continued improving their level. Arsenal are the perfect reflection of Arteta. Without the ball, they are the best team in Europe.”

The match was already huge because of what is at stake, but what makes it even more interesting is the contrast in styles. Paris Saint-Germain eliminated Arsenal in last season’s semifinal, but this time their opponents arrive with confidence after winning the Premier League.

Luis Enrique on set pieces

There are many details that have to be perfect in a game like this. One of Arsenal’s biggest strengths is their set pieces, largely because of the height and physical presence of their players.

For Luis Enrique, that is one of the main things they must watch closely. He knows his team cannot match Arsenal in that area, since Paris Saint-Germain rely more on smaller, technical players who are not built for aerial duels in the same way.

Luis Enrique said: “We are a smaller team, and we are used to different styles, but with the same idea of controlling the game, and it is very difficult to take the ball away from them. They represent Arteta’s ability to motivate the team very well.”

Luis Enrique on Ousmane Dembélé’s attitude

One of the biggest changes since Kylian Mbappé left the club has been the team’s willingness to work together when they lose possession. That has also been reflected in Ousmane Dembélé’s role in attack, since he continues to help his team by tracking back and working hard off the ball.

Luis Enrique said: “You have to defend when you do not have the ball, it’s something every team has to do, just like in basketball, and I think he always shows his individual quality as well as his ability off the ball.”

The Liverpool talisman, who recently said goodbye to Anfield at the end of the season after opting not to renew his contract, will be competing in his second World Cup with the Pharaohs, having previously featured at Russia 2018.

During that 2018 tournament, the forward arrived carrying a severe shoulder injury sustained in the UEFA Champions League final, where Liverpool fell to Real Madrid. Despite being physically compromised, Salah still managed to score two goals in his two appearances, though Egypt was ultimately eliminated in the group stage without securing a single point.

Joining Egypt’s second all-time leading scorer in attack is Manchester City’s Marmoush, alongside the squad’s biggest surprise selection: 18-year-old wonderkid Hamza Abdelkarim, who has been turning heads in Barcelona’s youth ranks.

Egypt’s group stage schedule

Egypt have been drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. The Pharaohs will make their tournament debut on June 15 against Belgium at Lumen Field in Seattle.

They will then travel to Vancouver to face New Zealand on June 21 at BC Place, before wrapping up the group stage against Iran on June 27, returning to Lumen Field.

Egypt’s 27-man roster

Goalkeepers

• Mohamed El Shennawy
• Mostafa Shobeir
• El Mahdy Soliman
• Mohamed Alaa

Defenders

• Mohamed Hany
• Tarek Alaa
• Hamdi Fathi
• Ramy Rabia
• Yasser Ibrahim
• Houssam Abdelmaguid
• Mohamed Abdelmonem
• Ahmed Fattouh
• Karim Hafez

Midfielders

• Marwan Attia
• Mohannad Lasheen
• Nabil Emad Dunga
• Mahmoud Saber
• Ahmed Sayed Zizo
• Mahmoud Trezeguet
• Emam Ashour
• Mostafa Ziko
• Ibrahim Adel
• Haissem Hassan
• Mohamed Salah

Forwards

• Omar Marmoush
• Aktay Abdullah
• Hamza Abdelkarim

De Jong was asked about reports of a possible exit in the summer of 2023: “What happened that summer was that, even though I said no, some clubs went to Barcelona and offered money for me. And inside the club, not everyone, but some people, thought those were good offers and wanted to sell me. But I’ve always said it: I only want to be at Barcelona.”

The Dutch midfielder also spoke about his relationship with Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco: “My relationship with Deco and Laporta is very good. I have a great relationship with both of them. Barcelona was going through a difficult financial situation and there are always clubs that contact players to ask if they want to leave or not. And I always said no.”

De Jong on Robert Lewandowski’s departure

This summer is expected to mark an important moment for Barcelona, with Robert Lewandowski confirming his departure from the club. The Polish striker was a key figure during a period when the team was not at its best.

For De Jong, his exit means losing a leader, and he also explained that he could not be at the stadium for Lewandowski’s final matches because he was ill and did not want to put anyone at risk.

De Jong said: “I think he has been very important over these four years, especially for the young players coming into the first team. Having the example of someone like Robert, who has won everything, and seeing how he trains and takes care of himself, has been very important for us.”

De Jong on his injury

Barcelona were also without an important piece for much of the year after De Jong suffered an injury. That kept him out of the lineup for a while, with his first start only coming in February because of the issue.

De Jong said: “I was coming back from a long injury and played ten minutes against Espanyol. Then the Champions League second leg against Atlético came around. I did everything possible to return as soon as I could. But in the end, I couldn’t shorten the recovery time the doctors gave me. It was six weeks, and in the end, it was six weeks.”

“Major League Soccer has had discussions with the International Football Association Board, global football’s rule making body, about trialing the use of a stopped clock in matches,” British outlet The Guardian reported Wednesday.

If this initiative moves forward, it would represent a major change for soccer. For more than a century, the sport has been defined by a timekeeping system in which the clock never stops regardless of what happens on the field, unlike virtually every other major sport.

In addition, soccer’s clock runs upward from 0 to 45 minutes to mark the beginning and end of each half, rather than counting down to zero as happens in other sports — not only in the United States, but globally — such as basketball and field hockey.

The main criticism of this system is that actual playing time varies depending on the number and length of interruptions. At the same time, although referees add stoppage time as a remedy, that method often rewards teams that intentionally waste time in order to gain an advantage.

MLS’ stance on the stopped clock

The conversations surrounding the possible implementation of a stopped clock in MLS are not merely rumors, as league officials have publicly acknowledged the idea. “We’re open to trials around the world, and working with IFAB,” MLS vice president of competition Paul Grafer told The Guardian.

“When are we going to move away from all of these stopgap procedures and see if we can address gamesmanship and match manipulation by having the referee have a [stopped] clock?” Grafer added, making his position on the issue clear.

MLS has used a stopped clock before

If the proposal to introduce a stopped clock moves forward, it would not be entirely new for MLS. When the league launched in 1996, the original system resembled those used in other American sports, with the clock stopping after every interruption to ensure full net playing time. However, that rule did not last long, as MLS adopted the globally used system in 1999.

On Tuesday, the English Football League (EFL) announced that an Independent Disciplinary Commission had made the bombshell decision to disqualify Southampton from the playoffs. The ruling came after the Saints were found guilty of breaching multiple league rules, including a modern-day “Spygate” scandal directed at Middlesbrough during the playoff semifinals.

The governing body’s ruling immediately inserted Middlesbrough into the final, sending Boro to Wembley to contest the final promotion spot for next season’s Premier League. However, the last-minute adjustment has been met with furious pushback from Hull City, setting the stage for an unprecedented legal showdown off the pitch.

According to talkSPORT‘s Alex Crook, Hull City are actively consulting with a team of lawyers to explore whether they can claim an automatic berth to the top flight. The club’s primary argument hinges on the fact that their entire tactical preparation was tailored for Southampton, meaning the EFL’s sudden intervention completely upends the game plan of manager Sergej Jakirovic.

The Premier League promotion decider between Hull City and Middlesbrough is still officially scheduled for Saturday, May 23, at Wembley Stadium. While Hull City players took a scheduled day off on Wednesday and will return to training on Thursday, the Tigers will have just two days to prepare for their new opponents, whereas Boro has known they were facing Hull since the ruling dropped.

Under a scenario that the Hull City hierarchy reportedly views as inherently unfair, the club’s legal battle is expected to extend far beyond kickoff. Reports from the British outlet indicate that if Hull fail to secure a victory on the pitch this Saturday, the club will almost certainly file a formal post-match challenge against the integrity of the fixture.

Southampton’s final appeal falls flat

Southampton were thrown a temporary lifeline following Tuesday’s initial verdict, launching an emergency appeal to salvage their season. However, the Saints were informed on Wednesday that the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision has been upheld, officially crushing any hopes of a trip to Wembley this weekend.

Because the Arbitration Panel’s ruling is legally binding, it cannot be appealed to any outside sports body, including the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Consequently, in addition to being booted from the Championship playoff final, the Saints will also hit the ground running next season with a severe four-point deduction in the standings.

In a tight first half, things unraveled for Freiburg late on as Aston Villa scored a pair of excellent goals. The breakthrough came from a well-worked corner routine that ended with a floated cross from Rogers and a superb volley from Tielemans.

When it seemed the teams would head into halftime with only a one-goal difference, Buendía found space and curled a brilliant left-footed shot into the top corner for the 2-0. That goal effectively put the match out of reach.

In the second half, Aston Villa sat deeper to protect the lead while Freiburg struggled to create dangerous chances. A low cross from Buendía that was finished by Rogers sealed the 3-0 win with 30 minutes remaining.

During a recent interview with Radio La Red’s MP910 program in Buenos Aires, former Argentina fitness coach Gerardo Salorio revealed details about what Messi decided to do with the money FIFA awarded the national team after the title.

“He split it equally among everyone working at the training facility. Exactly the same amount, for the woman who cleaned and the one who cooked,” Salorio revealed before emphasizing how meaningful the money was for those employees: “If it wasn’t enough to buy an apartment, it was almost enough to get one.”

Salorio worked with the Argentina national team for decades, focusing specifically on youth squads. He was part of Nestor Pekerman’s staff and crossed paths with Messi during the 2005 U-20 World Cup, where Argentina won the title and the forward was named the tournament’s best player.

“Leo did other things too,” Salorio added. He then recalled the turbulent years within the Argentine Football Association between 2016 and 2017: “When the AFA was under intervention, employees told Messi they had not been paid for three months. Leo made a few calls and the money appeared within hours.”

How much money did Argentina earn for winning the 2022 World Cup?

Clearly, Argentina’s success at the 2022 World Cup carried enormous symbolic and historical significance for the players, considering it is soccer’s biggest tournament and only the third time the country had won it in nearly a century. However, the financial aspect cannot be overlooked either.

For winning the World Cup in Qatar, FIFA awarded Argentina a $42 million prize, the largest amount ever handed out in this type of tournament. France, as runners-up, received $30 million. Third-place Croatia earned $27 million, while Morocco took home $25 million.

Teams eliminated in the quarterfinals received $17 million each, while those knocked out in the Round of 16 earned $13 million. Finally, teams that failed to advance past the group stage received $9 million apiece. In total, FIFA distributed $440 million in prize money during the 2022 World Cup.

According to Graeme Bailey via TEAMtalk, José Mourinho wants to reinforce the right-back position at Real Madrid CF, targeting Diogo Dalot as his main objective. While Trent Alexander-Arnold is a starter, his defensive gaps leave huge doubts. Nonetheless, Michael Carrick has clearly requested that Manchester United reject any offer for the Portuguese defender, as he considers him key for the future of the sporting project.

With a contract running until 2028, with an option for a further year, Dalot appears set to remain at the Red Devils. Despite the arrival of Noussair Mazraoui as an exciting signing, the Portuguese defender has managed to retain his place in the starting XI, standing out due to his consistency and strong game intelligence. In addition, he is capable of playing on both flanks, a key factor that makes him particularly valuable for Carrick.

Diogo Dalot could be close to agreeing a contract renewal with the Red Devils. With eight years at Manchester, he is one of the longest-serving players in the squad, becoming a highly respected figure within the team. In addition, his impact under Michael Carrick is expected to be rewarded with an improved contract, in an effort to prevent the 27-year-old star from being tempted to leave the club in the summer, according to TEAMtalk.

Report: Trent Alexander-Arnold will remain as starter in Real Madrid

Trent Alexander-Arnold has managed to establish as the starting right-back at Real Madrid, despite having an inconsistent start to the season. Not only has he maintained his strong attacking contribution, but he has also significantly improved his defensive output. With this in mind, the English full-back is reportedly set to remain the starter during the 2026-27 season.

According to José Félix Díaz via Diario AS, Los Blancos will once again rely on Trent Alexander-Arnold as their starting right-back at Real Madrid. However, they will look to sign a backup in the transfer market, although only in a secondary role. With this in mind, Diogo Dalot may choose not to risk leaving the Red Devils, as he would lose the strong importance he currently holds under Michael Carrick.

According to a report from the prestigious British outlet The Guardian, Arteta’s incoming contract is expected to closely mirror Simeone’s deal at Atletico Madrid. The Argentine tactician currently stands as the world’s highest-paid head coach, bringing in an estimated $34 million (€30 million) per year.

With the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain looming on the horizon on Saturday, May 30, formal contract extension negotiations are scheduled to take place after the showcase event at Budapest’s Puskas Aréna, regardless of the outcome for the Gunners.

Arteta recently became the second-youngest manager in Premier League history to win the title, trailing only Jose Mourinho’s 2005 triumph with Chelsea. By tying him down to a long-term deal, Arsenal’s hierarchy hopes to replicate the stability of Arsene Wenger’s legendary 22-year tenure at the helm.

Who is the highest-paid coach in the Premier League?

Should this new contract cross the finish line, Arteta will break records by commanding the highest salary for a manager in Premier League history, simultaneously placing him among the absolute highest earners in world sports.

Currently, Pep Guardiola holds that English benchmark, with reports placing his salary at around $27m (£20m) a year with Manchester City. However, the Spanish tactician’s era with the Citizens appears to be drawing to a close after 10 illustrious seasons.

Arsenal to make some important moves for next season

With their eyes already set on next season under Arteta’s leadership, Arsenal’s recruitment team is already drawing up a shortlist of new signings. One of their primary targets is Eli Junior Kroupi, the Bournemouth forward who inadvertently handed the Gunners the title by scoring in their 1-1 draw against Manchester City.

Other high-profile names on Arsenal’s radar include Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, PSG’s Bradley Barcola, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon. Meanwhile, PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia remains the club’s ultimate dream signing, though the Gunners’ board believes the French giants are highly unlikely to facilitate negotiations for the Georgian winger.

The uncertainty surrounding Messi’s long-term future continues to follow Argentina everywhere despite the team’s recent success. Even at 38, the Inter Miami star remains the emotional leader of the national team and the player many supporters still look toward during the biggest moments.

Scaloni now finds himself balancing preparations for another World Cup campaign while trying to avoid conversations about life after Messi. The Argentina coach has repeatedly emphasized the importance of enjoying the present rather than focusing too heavily on what may eventually happen after the tournament in North America.

That emotional atmosphere has also reopened memories of Maradona’s departure from soccer decades ago. For many inside La Albiceleste, the comparison between the two icons carries enormous emotional weight because both transformed the history of the national team forever.

Scaloni opens up on Messi fears

As Argentina continues preparing for the 2026 World Cup, Scaloni finally addressed the growing speculation surrounding Messi’s future during an emotional conversation with CONMEBOL. The World Cup-winning manager admitted that imagining Argentina without Messi reminds him of the sadness people felt when Maradona stopped playing.

“Being able to see him play is something wonderful. Beyond whether it is his last World Cup or not. I don’t like longing or thinking about what is going to happen; I want to enjoy the moment. Everyone wants to see him play,” Scaloni explained, via Goal. The Argentina coach made it clear that he does not want to focus on retirement discussions while Messi is still competing at the highest level.

Instead, Scaloni believes the current generation should simply appreciate every remaining appearance from the captain. “I like to think that he is going to keep playing, because it makes you sad, as happened with Diego, not seeing him on the field anymore,” he added.

The comparison with Maradona immediately resonated across Argentina. Maradona remains one of the most beloved figures in the history of the country’s soccer culture after leading the national team to World Cup glory in 1986.

Scaloni imagines Messi and Maradona together

For years, critics questioned whether Messi could replicate Maradona’s international legacy. Those debates largely disappeared after Argentina lifted the World Cup trophy in Qatar, finally ending decades of frustration for the national team. Now, the focus has shifted toward whether the Inter Miami captain will continue beyond 2026 or bring his extraordinary international career to a close after the tournament.

Scaloni, however, seems determined to avoid setting any emotional countdown around the captain. “They are players who marked the history of soccer. Thinking that he is not going to play anymore does not leave you at peace. I prefer to think about the present,” the coach admitted.

One of the most fascinating moments from Scaloni’s interview arrived when he was asked whether Messi and Maradona could have played together in the same Argentina side. The manager responded without hesitation. “Of course they would have played together in my national team,” Scaloni said.

Al-Nassr enters the final round knowing the title is within reach, but recent setbacks have left nerves running through the camp. The Riyadh giant remains at the top of the table with 83 points, yet the margin for error has become dangerously small after dropping points against Al-Hilal and the painful AFC Champions League Two final defeat against Gamba Osaka.

The final matchday has become a dramatic showdown for both ends of the table. Al-Nassr needs a victory against Damac to officially secure the Saudi Pro League title without relying on any other result.

The club looked ready to celebrate last week during the Riyadh derby before a heartbreaking late equalizer denied Jorge Jesus’ side all three points. That result kept Al-Hilal alive in the title race and increased the pressure heading into the final fixture of the campaign.

Damac, meanwhile, arrives fighting for survival. The club sits only two points above the relegation zone, meaning even a draw could become crucial depending on other results around the league.

The major injury update finally arrives

After days of uncertainty, the long-awaited update on the squad situation has finally emerged. According to reports from Arriyadiyah, Jorge Jesus will be without Marcelo Brozovic and Sultan Al-Ghannam for the decisive encounter against Damac due to injury concerns.

The Croatian midfielder has reportedly continued to struggle with a groin and hamstring issue that already forced him to miss the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. Despite additional treatment sessions supervised by the club’s medical staff, the Croatian midfielder has not recovered in time for the title decider.

The absence of the 33-year-old veteran could prove especially significant because of his influence in midfield throughout the campaign. The Croatian has been one of the side’s most experienced figures, helping control possession and dictate the rhythm in crucial matches.

Meanwhile, Al-Ghannam’s situation also became increasingly complicated after the injury he suffered during the continental final. The report suggested the Saudi international still required additional recovery time, forcing Jorge Jesus to prepare alternative tactical solutions before the biggest match of the season.

Jorge Jesus prepares final plan

Despite the setbacks, Al-Nassr still enters the contest with confidence thanks to its dominant home record. The club is unbeaten in its last nine Saudi Pro League home matches and has scored in every league fixture this season. Jesus has already called up a 21-player squad for the final pre-match camp in Riyadh.

Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane, Kingsley Coman, Angelo Gabriel, and Mohamed Simakan were all included as the coaching staff finalized preparations for the decisive night. Thus, everything now comes down to one night in Riyadh. After years of waiting, Cristiano Ronaldo stands one victory away from winning his first Saudi Pro League title since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023.

In recent years, UEFA has shown a willingness to restructure its club competitions significantly. The introduction of the Conference League brought a third tier to European club football, while the replacement of the traditional group stage with a league phase format was rolled out across the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League. Wednesday’s decisions bring that reform mindset to the international stage.

The changes announced apply to competitions involving European national teams, with the timeline skewed toward the medium term. With the 2027 Nations League and Euro 2028 still operating under the existing format, the first edition to reflect the new structure will be the 2029 UEFA Nations League, followed by the World Cup qualifying campaign for the 2030 edition.

Changes for the 2029 Nations League

Managing the wide range of competitive levels among European national teams has always been a challenge, and one of the Nations League’s core purposes was to bring order to that imbalance by grouping nations into tiers and divisions. That structure will now be refined under the new format.

As confirmed in a statement released by UEFA on Wednesday, the Nations League will transition from four leagues to three, namely League A, League B and League C, each consisting of 18 national teams. Those teams will be divided into groups of six, with each side playing six matches against five different opponents, facing teams from other pots either home or away and meeting their same-pot opponent in a home-and-away format.

The one exception to the group-of-six structure applies to League C, where one group will contain seven teams. All other established mechanisms, including promotion and relegation between tiers and the quarterfinals and Final Four format hosted at a single venue, will remain in place.

Changes for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers

Up through the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle, European teams were organized into 12 groups of varying sizes, with some containing four and others five teams depending on the adjustments required by Nations League Final Four participants. The upcoming cycle will introduce a broader, tier-based approach that mirrors the Nations League structure.

The new qualifying format will feature two tiers, League 1 and League 2. League 1 will include 36 nations drawn from the top two tiers of the Nations League, split into three groups of 12, with each team playing six matches against six different opponents, two from each seeding pot. The top finishers in each group will earn automatic qualification, with the remaining spots decided through a playoff system.

League 2 will be composed of the remaining 18 to 19 nations from the Nations League, split into three groups of six, or one group of seven where necessary. UEFA president Čeferin framed the reforms as a meaningful step forward for the competition’s integrity and appeal. “The new formats will improve competitive balance, reduce the number of dead matches, offer a more appealing and dynamic competition to fans, while ensuring a fair qualification chance for all teams and without adding any additional dates in the international calendar,” he said.

These changes, alongside the broader structural concept, will be subject to further refinement in the coming months before receiving final approval at the next UEFA Executive Committee meeting, scheduled for September 15, 2026 in Thessaloniki, Greece, following the conclusion of the World Cup.

Match Overview

Everything is on the line in Group H as River Plate shift their full attention to the Copa Sudamericana following their run to the domestic league final. River sit in prime position to lock up the top spot in the group, and a victory here would officially secure first place and a direct path to the knockout stage.

Standing in their way, however, are RB Bragantino, a team fully aware of the stakes heading into this pivotal clash. Bragantino can close the gap to just one point with a win, setting up a dramatic final matchday battle for first place and keeping the pressure squarely on River.

Match Overview

The battle for a spot in the Round of 16 could be decided in this crucial Group A showdown between Flamengo and Estudiantes. Flamengo lead the group with seven points and can officially lock in qualification with a victory, despite still awaiting a ruling related to the incidents from the Independiente Medellin match.

Meanwhile, Estudiantes enter with no margin for error, needing all three points to keep their hopes alive heading into the final Matchday. With major stakes on the line between two tournament favorites, this is a game fans will not want to miss.

According to Josep Pedrerol, via El Chiringuito, Kylian Mbappé and his inner circle believe that certain members of the locker room are leaking information about whether he goes out for dinner or for a drink, in an attempt to portray him as someone who isn’t fully committed. With this in mind, the 27-year-old star’s inner circle believes that it is Vinicius Jr. who wants to undermine his standing with the fans, causing tension between the two.

After the numerous criticisms over his trip to Italy in the middle of the season, Kylian Mbappé decided to explode in the mixed zone, sending a message to his teammates: “I had authorization from the club to not be in Madrid, and I was not the only one in the squad who was not there,” he said, as per Diario AS. With tensions continuing to grow, the relationship between the French star and Vinícius no longer appears entirely stable, but increasingly complicated.

Despite the multiple difficulties between Vinícius and Mbappé, Real Madrid supposedly maintain the continuity of both stars as a condition for their next head coach. With this in mind, both stars may need changes in their role on the field, seeking to maximize their performances. Meanwhile, José Mourinho’s potential arrival could also help ease tensions inside the dressing room, something he has already managed to do in previous eras.

Kylian Mbappé may be struggling to share spotlight at Real Madrid

Throughout his sporting career, Kylian Mbappé has always been the cornerstone of his teams, something that was clear at AS Monaco FC and PSG, ahead of Neymar and Lionel Messi. Therefore, the Frenchman expected that upon his arrival at Real Madrid it would be the same, removed from defensive responsibilities and being completely protected. However, the 27-year-old striker could be suffering the consequences of sharing the spotlight.

Unlike his previous clubs, Real Madrid do not have a single differential star, as Vinícius and Jude Bellingham are also central pieces of the team. Therefore, Mbappé does not have a team that plays around him, but rather he has to play in order to enhance the team. With this in mind, Mourinho’s potential arrival will be differential in adjusting the Frenchman’s mentality, while also calming the tension surrounding Vinícius Jr., as he must also share the spotlight.

The Rossoneri entered the final weeks of the season under enormous pressure following a worrying collapse in form during April. However, a crucial 2-1 victory away against Genoa, combined with Juventus losing 2-0 to Fiorentina, completely changed the atmosphere surrounding the club. Milan now sits third in the Serie A table with a two-point advantage over fifth-placed Como heading into the final weekend of the season. 

That turnaround has given the club renewed hope of securing a place in next season’s Champions League, something that may directly influence the futures of several important players. According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan is preparing to make key decisions regarding multiple first-team stars once the season officially concludes.

The situation involves players across every department of the squad, including Luka Modric, Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Fikayo Tomori. The uncertainty reflects how turbulent the season has been for the Red and Blacks. For long stretches of the campaign, the club looked secure inside the top four, yet a sharp decline in performances almost pushed the side completely out of Champions League contention.

Now, with qualification suddenly back within reach, Milan’s internal strategy may change significantly. The Serie A giant reportedly views Champions League soccer as a crucial factor in determining which players stay and which players leave.

What is Milan’s reported stance on Luka Modric?

One of the most fascinating situations surrounds Luka Modric. The Croatian veteran moved to San Siro after leaving Real Madrid last summer and signed a one-year contract that included an option for an additional season.

According to the report, qualifying for the Champions League is considered essential if Milan hopes to convince Modric to remain for another year. Without Europe’s biggest competition, the chances of the 40-year-old staying at San Siro appear far lower.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner arrived in Italy carrying enormous experience and leadership after one of the greatest midfield careers in modern soccer history. Even at this stage of his career, his presence inside the dressing room remains highly valued by the club.

In recent months, it has become harder to forecast Modric’s future due to the uncertainty surrounding the club’s season. Now, though, the recent improvement in results may give the Rossoneri one final opportunity to extend his stay.

What is Milan’s reported stance on Christian Pulisic?

Eventually, there is Christian Pulisic, facing a very different kind of uncertainty. The United States international remains one of Milan’s biggest attacking stars, but discussions over a new contract have reportedly slowed considerably.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Milan had been working toward an extension for several months before negotiations stalled earlier this year. Pulisic is reportedly seeking a salary closer to Rafael Leao’s, while doubts also remain about the direction of the project at San Siro. His current contract expires in the summer of 2027, meaning the Italian side still has time to negotiate.

However, the report makes it clear that some kind of decision will likely arrive this summer. “Something will have to happen,” La Gazzetta dello Sport states regarding the 27-year-old forward’s situation. That could mean either a contract renewal or a possible transfer if an agreement cannot be reached.

The timing is particularly important because Pulisic will spend much of the summer focused on the World Cup in the United States. Milan, meanwhile, wants clarity before entering another demanding season.

“Inter Miami and LA Galaxy been chasing Casemiro since March,” The Athletic and CBS Sports reporter Tom Bogert said Wednesday through his official X account. “Miami close to landing the Brazil int’t, who is out of contract this summer. Would join after World Cup.”

Among the Brazilian midfielder’s options in recent months have also been clubs from the Saudi Pro League, especially Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, as well as European giants such as AS Roma. However, his future now appears likely to be in MLS, more specifically alongside Lionel Messi.

“Inter Miami is preferred destination for Brazil int’l Casemiro & Miami is closing in on a deal,” Bogert added. Another report from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano supported that information, as he posted on X: “Casemiro wants Miami as next destination, with clear expectation to sign soon. The Brazilian wanted to finish season at Man Utd then sign with Inter Miami.”

Considering that, a final decision could arrive soon since Manchester United’s 2025-26 campaign will conclude this Sunday when they visit Brighton & Hove Albion on Premier League Matchday 38. Another reason Casemiro is expected to avoid delays regarding his future is the proximity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Brazil’s training camp set to begin on May 27.

LA Galaxy still in the race

Inter Miami may be Casemiro’s preferred destination, but that does not mean the path is completely clear. “The LA Galaxy have priority rights & made offers to Casemiro too. That situation needs to be resolved,” Tom Bogert reported.

That situation is tied to MLS rules, which in some aspects differ significantly from those in other leagues around the world. In the United States, each club can place players who are not currently in MLS on their “Discovery List,” giving them priority over other MLS teams in negotiations for that player.

Messi needs elite-level teammates

While Inter Miami’s performance this season has been reasonably strong — they currently sit second in the Eastern Conference — the team’s overall level has raised concerns at different moments throughout the campaign. In that regard, the midfield has been a particular issue.

The Herons have yet to truly replace Sergio Busquets, who retired in December 2025. David Ayala arrived as a reinforcement for that role but has struggled to establish himself so far, leaving Yannick Bright as the team’s usual defensive midfielder.

The absence of an elite-level player in such a crucial area of the field has been noticeable, increasing the burden on Lionel Messi and the rest of the attacking players. Inter Miami are the highest-scoring team in MLS this season with 33 goals, but they have not always translated that into positive results because of their defensive fragility, to the point of also ranking among the 10 teams with the most goals conceded (24). Casemiro could help solve many of those issues and provide much-needed balance to the team.

Recent reports have confirmed that Guardiola has decided to leave Manchester City after a decade at the club. Although the Spanish coach has publicly stopped short of confirming the decision, with just one year remaining on his contract a departure appears all but inevitable, and the conversation around his legacy in English football is already well underway.

During a CBS Sports UEFA Champions League Final preview call attended by World Soccer Talk, Henry was asked about the man who once coached him at FC Barcelona and about Guardiola’s lasting influence on the competition. “Pep has been able succeed wherever he went, and obviously that involves the Champions League, because in any team that he coached he was in the Champions League. It’s the way he goes about the game, the intensity that he puts in his team,” Henry said.

Placing Guardiola within a lineage of legendary coaches that includes Rinus Michels, Johan Cruyff and Louis van Gaal, Henry spoke about how Guardiola caught the game off guard by consistently losing great players and rebuilding as if they “were never there.” Beyond reviving the false nine position, the French legend also highlighted Guardiola’s more recent tactical innovation at City, turning fullbacks into players capable of occupying the interior pockets of the pitch and functioning as holding midfielders.

Henry, who worked under Guardiola at Barcelona between 2008 and 2010, recognized his former manager’s philosophy as something that will leave a lasting imprint on the sport for years to come. “I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m just saying he invented something that wasn’t there. And just for that, and with what he has also won, and how he transmitted and how he transcended and inspired people,” he said.

The France legend saved his most personal tribute for last, describing Guardiola’s influence as a genuine revelation. “I thought for a very long time that I was okay understanding the game. But this guy opened my eyes on how I see the game now. So I think for me, it’s like I said, just outstanding,” he concluded.

Where to watch: PSG vs. Arsenal Champions League Final

Fans in the United States can catch the UEFA Champions League final live on the CBS Television Network and Paramount+. PSG advanced past Bayern Munich in a thrilling semifinal that ended 6-5 on aggregate, while Arsenal, now Premier League champions, came through after a 2-1 aggregate victory over Atletico Madrid.

The final is set for the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary, with American rock band The Killers headlining the Kickoff Show. Scheduled for Saturday, May 31, the showdown could see Arsenal lift their first ever Champions League trophy, or PSG become the first club to win the competition in back-to-back seasons since Real Madrid claimed three consecutive titles between 2016 and 2018.

Match Overview

New York City FC and Columbus Crew are set for an important Eastern Conference showdown with both clubs chasing very different goals. NYCFC enter the match with 19 points and remain in the playoff hunt despite trailing conference leaders Nashville SC.

On the other hand, Columbus sit on just 13 points and are desperate for a turnaround after slipping outside the play-in spots. With momentum and a potential US Open Cup run on the line, this is a matchup fans will not want to miss.

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According to a report from the prestigious Brazilian outlet O Globo, Neymar experienced discomfort in his right calf muscle after completing one of his recent training sessions with Santos. Subsequent medical scans revealed that the forward has sustained an edema in his right calf.

Reporter Diogo Dantas notes that the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is treating the calf edema as a moderate injury, meaning his recovery will take longer than originally anticipated.

Given this outlook, the report indicates that Neymar will likely require at least a week of rehabilitation to ensure he can return to full training alongside his teammates ahead of the tournament in North America.

Will Neymar make it to Brazil’s training camp?

Carlo Ancelotti’s squad is scheduled to begin their pre-World Cup training camp on May 27 at Granja Comary, the national team’s primary training headquarters. If Neymar’s recovery progresses as planned, the Santos talisman should have no issues joining the squad on time for the upcoming sessions.

However, there remains a risk that the injured area does not respond favorably to rest and physiotherapy, which could extend his recovery timeline. This would be the worst-case scenario for Neymar, as it could leave him severely lacking match fitness heading into the tournament in North America.

Brazil are scheduled to play a send-off match on home soil against Panama on May 31 at the Maracana Stadium, a fixture Neymar aims to feature in if his recovery goes according to plan. Their final friendly before the World Cup will take place against Egypt on June 6 at Huntington Bank Field.

Neymar reportedly ruled out for Santos until after the World Cup

Considering the injury to the Brazilian icon and the absolute priority to protect his health so he arrives in peak condition for the 2026 World Cup, Neymar will play no part in Santos’ remaining four matches prior to the tournament.

Santos are set to navigate four fixtures before the World Cup break. The Peixe face two Copa Sudamericana clashes (against San Lorenzo and Deportivo Cuenca) and two Brasileirao matches (against Grêmio and Vitoria), with manager Cuca forced to cope without Neymar for all of them.

“If Pep Guardiola is available and he’s open to it, you would be dumb not to take that call and to sit down, and to see how he thinks about these things,” the former defender began by saying on Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union on Fox Sports. “You absolutely make that call, you might even get that call. I mean, we know Pep famously took a sabbatical. Where did he go? Went to the United States. It might appeal to him.”

Indeed, when Guardiola ended his successful four-year run with Barcelona in 2012, he took a year-long break during which he spent significant time in New York. During that period, he prepared for his next challenge with Bayern Munich, including learning German.

Now, with Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City seemingly decided, it remains unclear what the Spanish coach’s next step will be. It is also worth noting that Guardiola has worked continuously for the past 13 years, immediately beginning his tenure in England after completing his three seasons with Bayern Munich.

Lalas believes Guardiola needs a challenge like the USMNT

From 2008 through the present, Pep Guardiola has built a legacy that places him among the most successful managers in soccer history. In fact, he currently ranks second all-time with 40 trophies, trailing only Sir Alex Ferguson’s 49.

However, Alexi Lalas believes Guardiola still faces an unexplored challenge in his career: “For all of his success and all of his intelligence when it comes to the game, he still has to apply it to a very very different scenario, both in terms of being international, but also in terms of being a lesser team relative to the elites.”

The former United States international at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups then explained why the USMNT fits that description. “Pep has established his greatness making great teams that much greater. And the US is not a great team that he is falling into,” said the 55-year-old former defender.

Pochettino and his future with the USMNT

For Pep Guardiola to become a realistic option for the future of the USMNT, the position would first need to become available. Right now, the job belongs to Mauricio Pochettino, who was hired in September 2024 on a two-year deal with the goal of leading the team into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

There has still been no official confirmation regarding the Argentine coach’s future once the tournament in North America concludes this summer, which is understandable considering the USMNT’s performance there could ultimately determine the next steps.

Still, Alexi Lalas sounded confident about what will happen with Pochettino after the World Cup. “Pochettino, I think he’s going to move on. I think he’s gonna have some wonderful opportunities. And so, this coaching carousel is going to happen,” the former American player said, therefore opening the door to the possibility of Pep Guardiola.

With his contract running until 2027, Manchester City are fully determined to offer Rodri a new contract renewal. To achieve this, the Citizens are reportedly willing to offer him a weekly salary of €350,000 alongside a deal lasting until 2029. However, he has not yet given the “yes” to the club’s proposal, while also reportedly showing openness toward Real Madrid, making it clear that he would be willing to play for Los Blancos despite his past with Atlético de Madrid.

According to Joel del Río via MARCA, Pep Guardiola’s potential departure from the Citizens opens the door for Rodri to leave. In this context, Real Madrid believe that the 29-year-old star fits perfectly due to his leadership, tactical intelligence, and balance in midfield. In addition, the player reportedly views a move to Los Blancos positively, as the club consistently competes for every major title and would make him the central piece of their midfield.

While Rodri draws a lot of attention at Real Madrid, they have not yet made a move for his signing in the summer of 2026, reports Matteo Moretto. With this in mind, they could be far from having his arrival secured, as Manchester City are already pushing for a renewal. In addition, the 29-year-old star could consolidate as one of the best players for Spain at the 2026 World Cup, making his signing more complicated than ever.

Manchester City have already secured a replacement for Rodri Hernandez

Rodri has not come from his best season at Manchester City, as injuries heavily affected his physical continuity. Because of this, Pep Guardiola has had to resort to several alternatives. Thinking about the future of the sporting project, the Citizens decided to pay €60 million to FC Porto for Nico González, who could be the natural replacement for the 29-year-old star if he leaves the team in the summer of 2026.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Nico González played 2,492 minutes, having great prominence at the beginning of the season. While the return of Rodri took away his starting spot, the 24-year-old star has already shown a great ability to shine, even managing to score one goal. Because of this, Manchester City would not have to go and sign a replacement for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, something that could facilitate his departure to Real Madrid CF.

Match Overview

There’s little room for error in Group D as San Lorenzo and Santos prepare for a pivotal showdown. San Lorenzo sit atop the standings with six points and could strengthen its hold on first place with another victory heading into the final Matchday.

Meanwhile, Neymar and Santos arrive under pressure, needing a result to keep their hopes of advancing alive. With only three points separating the top and bottom of the group, this matchup has all the ingredients for a must-watch battle.

According to Sique Rodríguez via Cadena SER, both Dušan Vlahović and Bernardo Silva have been offered to FC Barcelona through their representatives. Although both players would arrive as free agents, the Blaugranas have reportedly decided to reject the offers for now, as they remain focused on signing a world-class striker and a winger — profiles that neither player currently fully satisfies.

Despite having shined at Manchester City, Bernardo Silva is not a player currently included within Barcelona plans. With numerous players already occupying the midfield, the front office reportedly do not consider the Portuguese star to be an option worth prioritizing. However, Dušan Vlahović could still have chances of joining Hansi Flick’s team, although only if the club fail to secure their primary targets, making him more of a secondary alternative.

After their major goalscoring problems and the departure of Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona seem determined to prioritize the signing of a striker. While Julián Álvarez was the club’s priority option, PSG now reportedly appear to lead the race for his signing. Because of this, João Pedro has emerged as Barcelona’s main target in the transfer market. For that reason, the possible arrival of Dušan Vlahović now appears more difficult than initially expected.

Report: Bernardo Silva emerges as a top target for Atlético Madrid

Bernardo Silva has remained one of the most important players for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. After several years with the Citizens, the Portuguese star has reportedly decided to leave as a free agent, with his main objective being a move to LaLiga, as per several reports. After Barcelona’s rejection, the 31-year-old midfielder has supposedly become Atlético de Madrid’s main target, while Real Madrid CF and Juventus FC also remain attentive to his future.

According to David G. Medina and Isaac Suárez via MARCA, Bernardo Silva has become Atlético de Madrid’s main target in the transfer market. After the departure of Antoine Griezmann, the Portuguese star is viewed as the ideal player to replace him within the squad, as his versatility and impressive trophy cabinet make him a high-impact option. However, Real Madrid and Juventus are also monitoring his future closely, potentially entering the race for his signing.

The atmosphere around the club has intensified even further following recent uncertainty surrounding several important first-team players. Jorge Jesus and his coaching staff spent the last few days anxiously monitoring the physical condition of multiple stars before making final decisions ahead of Thursday’s title showdown.

Al-Nassr supporters are expected to fill the stadium completely as anticipation continues to grow across Saudi Arabia. With Ronaldo leading the attack and the club sitting on top of the table with 83 points, the match has quickly become one of the most anticipated fixtures of the entire season.

The timing of the encounter has only increased the tension surrounding the squad. Al-Nassr arrives after suffering a painful 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, a result that denied the club continental glory and placed even greater importance on securing the domestic title.

Al-Nassr faces massive pressure

The equation for Al-Nassr remains straightforward heading into the final weekend. A victory against Damac would officially crown the club Saudi Pro League champion without relying on any other result.

That reality has transformed preparations into an intense balancing act between tactical work and injury management. The club has spent the week carefully assessing the condition of several players who missed recent matches because of muscle problems and fitness concerns.

Earlier reports indicated that Kingsley Coman, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, and Angelo Gabriel were all undergoing specialized rehabilitation programs before training sessions. The group reportedly completed electrical therapy and stretching exercises as the medical department attempted to accelerate their recovery ahead of the decisive encounter.

The final decisions depended on whether the players could train pain-free alongside the rest of the squad. Jorge Jesus reportedly wanted every available option ready before selecting his starting lineup for the season-defining match.

Crucial injury update arrives with Brozovic still in doubt

Al-Nassr then received a major boost during the latest training session. According to reports from Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, and Kingsley Coman all returned to full group training ahead of the clash with Damac. The trio reportedly completed the entire session at the Dar Al-Nassr training center after recovering from the muscle injuries that forced them to miss the AFC Champions League Two final.

Their availability immediately strengthened optimism inside the club before the decisive league fixture. Coman’s recovery could prove especially significant for Jorge Jesus. The French winger has become an important attacking weapon during crucial moments this season, bringing pace, creativity, and experience to the frontline alongside Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.

Additional reports suggested that Coman had already declared himself fully fit and ready to start against Damac. Meanwhile, Al-Khaibari was said to be nearing full fitness after progressing well during the final rehabilitation phase. The return of Al-Amri also gives Al-Nassr greater defensive stability before facing a Damac side still battling to avoid relegation.

His presence could become vital in a match where every mistake may carry enormous consequences. However, while several players returned at the perfect moment, Al-Nassr also received concerning news regarding Marcelo Brozovic. The Croatian midfielder is reportedly unlikely to feature against Damac because of an ongoing hamstring injury.

“An incredible achievement by an inspirational player – it’s a record sixth successful FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign for Cristiano Ronaldo as Portugal booked their place at the 2026 edition,” Infantino wrote on his Instagram account.

Furthermore, Infantino highlighted the historic feat that Ronaldo is poised to accomplish in North America. “Cristiano now has the chance to represent his country at six FIFA World Cups – something no men’s player has yet achieved,” he added.

However, Ronaldo might not be alone in achieving this landmark. Both Lionel Messi and Guillermo Ochoa are also preparing for what could be their sixth World Cup campaigns, and while their official squad selections have yet to be confirmed, the probability of them featuring in North America remains incredibly high.

Ronaldo’s World Cup history

Cristiano’s journey with soccer’s most prestigious tournament began at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where, as a 21-year-old, he managed to score his first tournament goal across six appearances. In that edition, Portugal secured their second-best finish in history, placing fourth and narrowly missing out on matching the bronze medal secured at England 1966.

Four years later, he returned for the 2010 edition in South Africa, once again netting a single goal in four matches. During that tournament, Portugal was eliminated in the Round of 16 after falling to eventual champions Spain.

Brazil 2014 marked Cristiano’s toughest World Cup outing to date. Despite scoring one goal, Portugal suffered a premature group-stage exit after being drawn into a difficult group alongside Germany, the United States, and Ghana.

In Russia 2018, Cristiano delivered his finest individual World Cup performance. The forward struck four times, including a sensational hat-trick against Spain in an electric 3-3 draw to open the tournament. However, collective success eluded them once again, as they were knocked out by Uruguay in the Round of 16.

In his most recent appearance at Qatar 2022, Ronaldo scored just once during the group stage and subsequently lost his place in the starting lineup during the knockout rounds. On that occasion, Portugal’s journey came to an end with a shocking quarterfinal defeat to Morocco.

“Communication between Barca and the Royal Spanish Football Federation is constant, with full consensus on not exposing Lamine in the first two matches,” Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reported on Wednesday. It later added one clarification: “Unless he were completely at 100%.”

The report states that Spain are willing to be without Yamal for the opening two group-stage matches, believing the relatively low level of the opposition should allow them to secure positive results even without their best player.

Cape Verde will be Spain’s opponent in the opening Group H match on Monday, June 15, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Six days later, Spain will face Saudi Arabia at the same venue.

When could Lamine Yamal be available?

If Lamine Yamal’s recovery continues as expected and the original timeline is met, his World Cup debut could come in Spain’s third Group H match. “Everything is under control with Lamine Yamal ahead of his return in the United States, with Saturday, June 27 circled for the Spain-Uruguay match,” Mundo Deportivo added.

By that point, Yamal will have gone more than two months without playing. His last appearance came on April 22, in Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Celta Vigo in La Liga. Considering the initial recovery timeline was projected at six weeks, he is expected to have enough time to return at full strength.

It is no coincidence that this is the projected return date for Lamine. Soccer often delivers unexpected surprises, but early projections suggest the match against Uruguay will be Spain’s first truly demanding challenge of the World Cup. There, they will face a dangerous opponent in what could decide the top spot in the group, a key factor when determining the knockout-stage bracket.

Spain’s key dates ahead of the World Cup

Coach Luis de la Fuente will publicly announce Spain’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday, May 25. In the days that follow, the squad will gather to begin training camp, knowing they still have two friendlies before the tournament begins: June 4 against Iraq and June 8 against Peru.

According to Guinness World Records via X, Max Dowman has become the youngest player ever to win the Premier League, achieving the feat at just 16 years and 239 days old. In doing so, Arsenal’s wonderkid surpassed Phil Foden, who previously held the record after winning the 2017-18 Premier League with Manchester City FC at 17 years and 350 days old.

While Dowman is not yet a regular starter under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, he still managed to make five appearances during the campaign, recording one goal and one assist. Having a bright future ahead, Max is expected to remain in the Gunners for the 2026-27 season. Nonetheless, head coach Mikel Arteta has decided to include him step by step in the team, looking for him to adapt to the highest level of competitiveness.

After scoring a goal vs. Everton, Arteta decided to praise Max Dowman’s talent: “It is not only the goal that he scored, [Dowman] changed the game. Every time he got the ball, he makes things happen and we are more of a threat. To do that at that age, in this context, with the pressure, the expectations to win the game – it’s just not normal… When you have such a talent then I’m sure good things are going to happen,” he said, as reported by BBC.

Max Dowman is shaping up to be a generational talent at Arsenal

Since the arrival of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have built an extremely promising sporting project. Not only do they possess elite talents such as Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, but they have also continued to place major trust in academy players. In this context, Max Dowman has fully taken advantage of his opportunities, showcasing exceptional talent. At just 16 years old, he already appears capable of becoming a generational talent for Arsenal.

Heading into the 2026-27 season, Max Dowman could receive a much bigger role at Arsenal. Unlike the situation surrounding Ethan Nwaneri, Mikel Arteta reportedly plans to keep the 16-year-old talent fully integrated within the senior squad, allowing him to continue adapting to the team’s dynamics. In addition, legend Rio Ferdinand have already publicly praised Dowman, further suggesting that his long-term continuity with the Gunners is viewed as almost certain.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, when they’ll be hosting Damac FC for the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League at Al Awwal Park, needing a win to secure the title. The Portuguese legend heads to the match after a 1-0 defeat against Japanese side Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final.

Regarding the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Selecao will play two friendlies on home soil: the first against Chile on June 6 and the second against Nigeria on June 10.

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 28 goals and provided 5 assists in 36 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 971 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.

Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule

After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule.

From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final.

With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.

According to FC Barcelona, Fermín López suffered a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot, forcing the Spanish midfielder to undergo surgery. While the club decided not to disclose an official recovery timetable, MARCA reported that the 23-year-old star is expected to face between six and eight weeks on the sidelines. After confirming that the operation was successful, Fermín officially revealed that he will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain.

“The surgery went very well, and I’m already looking forward to coming back stronger, both physically and mentally. Life and soccer can be cruel when you least expect it or deserve it, but you have to accept that it’s all part of the journey. This is a very difficult time for me and yet another challenge in my career that I will overcome—have no doubt about that. Now it’s time to support the national team and my teammates from home,” reveals Fermin Lopez, via Instagram.

Without Fermín López available on the pitch, Luis de la Fuente loses one of the most complete players in the world. Not only has the Barcelona midfielder become as one of the top scorers in LaLiga, but he has also become a crucial defensive presence. Even so, the Blaugranas are expected to have Fermín fully fit for the 2026-27 season, with him projected to return completely recovered and once again emerge as the central figure of the midfield.

Fermin’s World Cup absence opens the door for Gavi in Spain

Spain arrive as one of the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup. Not only do they possess a highly balanced roster, but they also rely on world-class difference makers such as Lamine Yamal and Pedri. While the absence of Fermín López represents a major blow for the national team, Luis de la Fuente could now reopen the door for Gavi’s return, with the Barcelona midfielder potentially emerging as an ideal complement for Spain’s midfield structure.

Before suffering his serious injury, Gavi had emerged as an ideal complement in Spain’s midfield. Not only he provides strong defensive support, but his outstanding vision and intensity also helps elevate the team’s attacking play. While the 21-year-old star is not especially known for his goalscoring numbers, Luis de la Fuente has consistently valued his versatility. Even so, Álex Baena, Dani Olmo, and even Pablo Fornals could also emerge as important attacking options.

The atmosphere surrounding the fixture has already reached extraordinary levels before a ball has even been kicked. Al-Nassr enters the final matchday leading the Saudi Pro League table with 83 points, just two ahead of rival Al-Hilal, meaning the pressure on Jorge Jesus and his squad could hardly be any greater.

Every detail around the match has carried enormous significance during the build-up. From tactical discussions to injury updates and title permutations, attention has remained fixed on Al-Nassr’s clash with Damac as the club attempts to win its first league crown since 2019.

The match also arrives only days after disappointment in continental competition. Jorge Jesus and his players suffered a painful 1-0 defeat against Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, leaving the squad desperate to respond immediately in front of its home crowd.

Title race reaches boiling point

Al-Nassr’s situation is simple heading into the final round of the season. A victory against Damac guarantees the Saudi Pro League title regardless of what happens in Al-Hilal’s match against Al-Fayha. That reality has transformed the contest into one of the most anticipated fixtures Saudi soccer has seen in recent years.

Ronaldo’s presence, combined with the importance of the occasion, has elevated global interest around the game to another level entirely. The club officially released ticket information earlier this week in an attempt to maximize attendance at Al-Awwal Park.

Ticket prices were divided across different categories, with seats behind the goal starting at 34 Saudi riyals, corner sections priced at 70 riyals ($19), and premium front sections reaching 110 riyals ($29). Al-Nassr hoped the stadium would become an additional weapon in the title race, as it wants a full house capable of creating the kind of atmosphere that could push the players through one final challenge.

Ticket market goes into utter disarray

However, the demand for tickets quickly spiraled beyond anything organizers expected. According to reports from Saudifutbol on X (formerly Twitter), all tickets for Al-Nassr vs Damac officially sold out almost immediately after becoming available. The situation then reportedly descended into complete chaos across both official and unofficial ticket platforms.

Supporters flooded websites and waiting rooms in massive numbers as resale prices began to rise dramatically within hours. What’s more, some tickets even reportedly increased by more than 400% above their original value. The tremendous demand is a reflection of Ronaldo’s immense influence on Saudi soccer and the increasing international interest in the Saudi Pro League championship battle.

Even more remarkably, reports claimed that more than two million people entered waiting lists for a stadium with a capacity of only around 26,000 supporters. Fans across social media expressed frustration after struggling to secure access to one of the biggest matches in recent Saudi soccer history.

The controversy also triggered accusations between ticketing platforms. According to the report, several parties blamed one another for failing to stop automated bots that allegedly overwhelmed the sales process and made it nearly impossible for many genuine supporters to purchase seats normally.

Match Overview

Freiburg stands on the brink of history in their first-ever major European final. For a club that has never won a major trophy in its 122-year existence, this match is the single most important moment in its history. Julian Schuster‘s side has shattered all expectations to reach this stage, and a victory would not only deliver silverware but also a coveted spot in next season’s Champions League.

For Aston Villa, the stakes are just as high. Manager Unai Emery, a true specialist in this competition, aims to secure his fifth Europa League title and deliver Villa’s first major trophy since 1996. Having already secured Champions League spot through Premier League, the English side can pour all their energy into ending a 30-year trophy drought and claiming their first European title since their legendary 1982 European Cup victory.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This final presents a fascinating clash of trajectories. Freiburg has been the ultimate surprise package, navigating a tough European campaign while securing a seventh-place finish in the Bundesliga. Their journey has been defined by resilience and clinical finishing. In contrast, Aston Villa has successfully balanced a demanding Premier League season with a dominant run in Europe, establishing themselves as the tournament favorites from the early stages.

The tactical battle will likely pit Aston Villa‘s possession-based system against Freiburg’s organized and opportunistic approach. Unai Emery’s side thrives on controlled buildup and will look to use its potent attack, which has scored a competition-high 28 goals, to break down the German defense. Freiburg will likely cede possession, maintain a compact defensive shape, and look to exploit any opportunities on the counter-attack, relying on the sharp-shooting that has seen them outperform their expected goals metric.

Motivation is at its peak for both squads. Freiburg is fueled by the chance to write an unforgettable chapter in club history, with a victory representing an unprecedented achievement. For Aston Villa, this is an opportunity to cap a brilliant season with tangible silverware, validating their return to Europe’s elite and adding another European trophy to their cabinet. The pressure is on for both, but for entirely different reasons.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

This Europa League final marks the first-ever competitive meeting between Freiburg and Aston Villa, adding an element of unpredictability to the high-stakes encounter. With no historical data to draw from, both teams will be entering uncharted territory against one another.

While they have never met, their respective records against opposition from each other’s countries offer some insight. Freiburg has struggled against English clubs, winning just one and losing three of their four encounters, all against West Ham. Their most recent clash with an English side ended in a heavy 5-0 defeat. Conversely, Aston Villa boasts a strong record against German opponents, winning four and losing two of their six matches, including their historic 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the 1982 European Cup final.

Historically, Europa League finals tend to be cagey affairs. A remarkable trend shows that 15 of the last 20 finals have produced under four total goals, including each of the last five. Despite both Freiburg and Aston Villa being high-scoring teams throughout this season’s tournament, the pressure of the occasion suggests that a cautious, low-scoring game could be on the cards.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both managers face significant selection dilemmas due to key player absences that could heavily influence their game plans for the final.

Freiburg will be without several important players. The German side is missing Max Rosenfelder and key attacker Yuito Suzuki, who suffered a broken collarbone. The absence of Daniel-Kofi Kyereh and Patrick Osterhage further stretches their squad depth ahead of this crucial fixture.

Aston Villa is also dealing with injury concerns in midfield, with Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana sidelined. However, the biggest worry is a knock sustained by playmaker Emiliano Buendía. The Argentine has been instrumental in their European run, and his potential absence would be a significant blow to Villa’s creative options in the final third.

Freiburg Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Atubolu; Kübler, Ginter, Lienhart, Treu; Eggestein, Höfler; Manzambi, Beste, Grifo; Matanovic
This lineup reflects Freiburg‘s balanced approach, relying on the veteran leadership of Matthias Ginter in defense. The creative burden will fall on winger Vincenzo Grifo to create chances for the lone striker, Matanovic, while the double pivot of Eggestein and Höfler provides stability in midfield.

Aston Villa Projected XI (3-5-2): Martinez; Konsa, Torres, Lindelof; Cash, Bogarde, Tielemans, McGinn, Digne; Rogers, Watkins
Unai Emery may deploy a flexible 3-5-2 to control the center of the pitch and provide width through wing-backs Cash and Digne. This formation allows the in-form partnership of Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins to lead the line, with captain John McGinn driving forward from midfield to support the attack.

More details on how to watch

You can find the Freiburg vs Aston Villa live stream on Fubo. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices, ensuring you can watch the final wherever you are.

A subscription to Fubo not only gives you access to the Europa League final but also to a host of other top-tier soccer competitions. You can stream other leagues and tournaments, including Liga MX and La Liga, making it a comprehensive package for any soccer fan.

The service is available for a competitive price of $14.99/mo. This plan gives you access to all live matches, replays, and exclusive content available on the platform.

Beyond soccer, your subscription includes access to a wide variety of other entertainment. You can watch movies, TV shows, and other live sports, providing excellent value for the whole household.

SEE MORE: For a full schedule of games, visit our Europa League TV schedule page.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

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

Brazil officially confirmed its final squad for the World Cup this week, and Neymar’s inclusion immediately became the biggest talking point across the country. The 34-year-old will now prepare for what is expected to become the fourth and likely final World Cup appearance of his remarkable career.

The decision surprised many observers because doubts over Neymar’s physical condition had continued to grow in recent months. Since suffering a serious ACL injury in October 2023, the forward has struggled to regain full rhythm, while recurring fitness concerns constantly raised questions about whether he could still perform at the highest international level.

Despite those concerns, Ancelotti made it clear that the veteran attacker still has an important role to play within the national team setup. The Italian coach believes Neymar can still offer something valuable to Brazil, even if the structure around him has now changed significantly.

The conversation that changed everything

According to reports from Globo, the turning point arrived during a direct video call involving Ancelotti, Neymar, and Brazil sporting director Rodrigo Caetano. That conversation reportedly removed the final doubts the coach still had regarding the player’s commitment and attitude.

The report claims the Italian boss wanted complete honesty before making his final decision. After nearly three years away from international soccer, the manager reportedly needed reassurance that Neymar was prepared to accept a very different role inside the national team environment.

During the conversation, Ancelotti reportedly informed Neymar that he would no longer automatically be Brazil’s captain and would not be guaranteed a place in the starting lineup. The Italian coach also made it clear that discipline, focus, and collective balance would become central pillars of his project with the Selecao.

Neymar’s reported stance on Brazil’s new reality

Those conditions represented a major shift from previous eras, when Neymar was unquestionably treated as the center of the national team project. Under Ancelotti, Brazil appears determined to build a more balanced group centered around collective strength rather than individual status.

What ultimately convinced Ancelotti was Neymar’s reaction to the conversation. According to multiple reports in Brazil, the forward responded positively and showed genuine willingness to adapt for the good of the squad.

Sources close to the Brazilian federation believe Neymar accepted the new conditions with humility and maturity. That response reportedly played a huge role in securing his place ahead of younger options such as Chelsea forward Joao Pedro.

LiveModeTV operates under the umbrella of CazéTV, a Brazilian digital sports broadcasting channel that has built a strong following with free, streaming-based coverage of major sporting events. The company launched its international operations in December, offering free digital coverage of the 2026 World Cup from Portugal.

That initial foray into the international market prompted Ronaldo to take a more formal stake in the newly established company, which is focused on bringing innovative digital broadcasting to audiences outside of Brazil. The partnership was announced in a joint statement released by both parties last Thursday, outlining the role the Portuguese star will play in driving the project forward.

“The mission is to bring sports within everyone’s reach in a completely new and inspiring way. Sports can change lives, and we want to enrich the ecosystem by boosting the reach and engagement of major competitions through broadcasts on YouTube and content distributed across all social media platforms for everyone,” Ronaldo said in the statement.

The business model will be funded entirely through advertising revenue and partnerships with global sponsors targeting younger audiences. The same press release confirmed that “Cristiano Ronaldo and LiveModeTV will join forces ahead of the World Cup to grow their collaboration in Europe and other international markets, leveraging the Portuguese star’s passion and his broad investment portfolio.“

Ronaldo expands his media empire

As a businessman, Ronaldo has built a diversified portfolio over the years, with stakes in Al Nassr and ownership of luxury hotels in cities including Madrid and New York, among other ventures. In recent years, however, some of his most significant moves have come in the media and broadcasting space.

A major step came in 2023, when Ronaldo announced his entry into Portuguese media conglomerate Cofina Média, which was subsequently rebranded as Medialivre. The group’s portfolio includes prominent Portuguese titles such as Correio da Manha, Record, Jornal de Negocios, Sabado, TV Guia, Flash and Maxima.

On the social media front, Ronaldo launched his YouTube channel, UR Cristiano, in 2024, which has since grown to 78.8 million subscribers on the back of a string of viral videos. Now, with his LiveModeTV investment, the 41-year-old is extending that media presence into the live sports broadcasting arena, with the 2026 World Cup set to serve as the platform’s global coming-out moment.

Endrick said: “I have to say goodbye now and begin a journey back, one that will take much longer because I am returning with much more than I had when I arrived. For the rest of my life, I will carry this city with me in my heart and in my memories.”

Without many minutes at Real Madrid and with some injuries, Endrick had to leave the club on loan in search of playing time to prove his talent. In the end, his level in France was so good that he left a mark on the fans, just as the city left one on him.

The full message

“In Brazil, when someone is going through a difficult moment, people usually say that person has to kill one lion every day. I spent months going through something no athlete wants to go through, but I decided I would not kill a single lion, I decided to become one. It was here at Lyon that I found what I needed to recover my strength, follow my instinct to attack like a lion, defend my own people and become stronger.

The months of anguish turned into months of joy, victories and learning experiences. I made new friends, became even closer to the ones I already had and discovered that our place is wherever we are with the people we love and the people who love us. This period with all of you could definitely become a movie.

Unfortunately, even stronger, a lion cannot stay in one place forever. I have to say goodbye now and begin a journey back, one that will take much longer because I am returning with much more than I had when I arrived. For the rest of my life, I will carry this city with me in my heart and in my memories.”

Endrick’s numbers in Lyon

Endrick may not have been in the headlines every week, but that was mainly because Lyon were not facing huge challenges. His performances were good enough to convince the national team manager to call him up. His improvement at his new club was clear, as he scored five goals and provided seven assists in 16 Ligue 1 matches to help his team reach the Champions League.

Back in March, Inter Miami suffered a significant setback with their Round of 16 exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup at the hands of Nashville, and a string of poor results through early April sent them tumbling to seventh in the rankings. Since then, the club has undergone a reset, including the dismissal of Javier Mascherano and the appointment of Guillermo Hoyos, and the results on the pitch have followed.

With CONCACAF releasing its latest club ranking update on May 18, Inter Miami have climbed from sixth to fourth overall, now sitting as the highest-ranked MLS side on the list. LAFC and the Seattle Sounders had been positioned above them, but both clubs have shed points in the most recent update following difficult stretches of form.

After a strong start to the season, LAFC hit a wall in May, falling in the Champions Cup semifinals against Toluca and then collecting just one draw and three consecutive MLS defeats. The Sounders followed a similar trajectory, bowing out of the Champions Cup in the quarterfinals to Tigres UANL before managing only one win, two draws and one defeat in May league play.

Messi’s contribution to Inter Miami’s revival

Hoyos took charge of his first Inter Miami match on April 18 against the Colorado Rapids, and under the Argentine coach the team has found a level of consistency that was largely absent earlier in the season. A significant factor in that turnaround, beyond the improvement from several players across the squad, has been Lionel Messi returning to his best form.

Since that Colorado Rapids fixture, Messi has featured in seven games, scoring seven goals and adding five assists. In May alone across four appearances, he has posted four goals and four assists, performances that have positioned him as the leading candidate for the MLS Player of the Month award.

Who sits at the top of the CONCACAF rankings?

Over the stretch that includes the Colorado match, Inter Miami have posted five wins, one draw and one defeat with 20 goals scored, accumulating 1,241 points in the CONCACAF index. Despite the momentum, the gap between the Herons and the Liga MX clubs occupying the top three remains considerable.

Tigres UANL and Deportivo Toluca hold the top two spots with 1,277 and 1,276 points respectively, as the two CONCACAF Champions Cup finalists. Cruz Azul, who reached the quarterfinals and are set to face Pumas UNAM in the Liga MX Clausura final, sit third with 1,258 points, leaving a 17-point gap between them and the highest-ranked MLS club.

Pedri said: “I’m very keen on the World Cup. We all dream about winning the star, but winning it isn’t easy. We have a great team. I’d like to finish the tournament with the feeling of having heavy arms from lifting the trophy.”

The midfielder is not just there to be part of the squad. His most likely role in Luis de la Fuente’s lineup is to be one of the team’s key players. In great form to finish the season with his club, Pedri looks like a player to watch.

Pedri on Fermín López

With nothing at stake for Barcelona, an unfortunate situation came up in a meaningless match against Betis in a La Liga season that had already been won by the club. Fermín López was the main figure, with the midfielder leaving the field at halftime with an injury from a win that has ruled him out of the World Cup, with an expected recovery of around three months.

The club confirmed his injury in a statement: “Fermín has undergone successful surgery for the fracture of the fifth metatarsal in his right foot. The recovery time will be determined based on his progress.”

Pedri said: “Fermín was very sad. Missing the World Cup is not an easy pill to swallow. I just hope he recovers well. It was a blow for everyone; I have a very good relationship with him. Soccer can be cruel sometimes. I wish him a quick recovery.”

Pedri on José Mourinho rumors

The midfielder was also asked about Real Madrid, especially about the manager who could replace Álvaro Arbeloa next season after serving as interim coach, as José Mourinho is being mentioned most often for the job. Pedri said: “It is not official and it is not the time to talk about it if he comes. It does not make sense.”

“UEFA has opted against following FIFA’s lead and introducing automatic red cards for players who cover their mouths when confronting an opponent or leave the pitch in protest at a refereeing decision,” The Guardian reported on Tuesday.

The ban on players covering their mouths while interacting with opponents was promoted by FIFA following an incident that actually involved UEFA competition, as it took place during a Champions League match. It was the well-known episode involving Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.

That incident resulted in a six-match suspension for Prestianni imposed by UEFA, which was later extended to the international level as well, potentially affecting the forward’s chances of making Argentina’s roster for the World Cup.

The other situation that motivated these rule changes took place during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, when Senegal players temporarily walked off the field during the final against Morocco in protest of refereeing decisions. Although they later returned and secured a 1-0 victory, CAF ultimately awarded the title to Morocco in a controversial ruling that is now in the hands of the CAS.

UEFA to closely monitor the World Cup

Although FIFA approved these rule modifications following the latest meeting of the International Football Association Board, the decision has not been imposed as mandatory worldwide. That means each continental confederation and local association can evaluate whether implementing the changes is appropriate.

“UEFA’s executive committee will meet for the final time this season in Istanbul on Wednesday and it is understood no regulation changes are on the agenda,” The Guardian reported. However, that does not necessarily mean the decision is permanent, as the issue is expected to be revisited in the near future.

“UEFA sources said that its referees committee would monitor the impact of the new regulations during the World Cup with a view to discussing potential changes during next season,” the report added.

The possibility of seeing a situation similar to the Africa Cup of Nations final happen again during the World Cup is extremely unlikely given how unusual that episode was. However, players covering their mouths while speaking to opponents is far more common, so it will be interesting to see whether that behavior disappears during the World Cup and, if not, whether referees will consistently enforce the new rules with the strictness FIFA intends.

Arteta established himself as a leader despite his young age. In doing so, he surpassed his fellow countryman, as he is now 44 years and 55 days old after winning the Premier League title, while Guardiola was 47 years and 87 days old when he achieved it.

That leaves him only behind Mourinho in the list of youngest managers to win the title. The Special One did it with Chelsea at 42 years and 94 days. Completing the top four is Kenny Dalglish, who won it at 44 years and 71 days, followed by Arne Slot and then Guardiola at 46 years and 222 days.

Better win percentage than Arsène Wenger

The club has been one of the most important in England for decades. In the modern era, however, it is more closely associated with Arsène Wenger’s teams. Under the French manager, they produced a brilliant style that brought many titles, especially in his earlier years.

His long spell may be the reason Arteta ranks higher than Wenger in win percentage, since the historic manager spent more than 20 years at the club, while the younger coach has been in charge since December 2019.

Arteta has been slowly building a team that has come very close over the last two years. His win percentage now stands at 60.4 percent, with 212 wins, 66 draws and 73 losses, slightly ahead of Wenger’s 57.2 percent from 707 wins, 280 draws and 248 losses, among managers with at least 50 matches.

The final matches

There is one Premier League match left, against Crystal Palace on Sunday. However, that one no longer matters much, with the chance of history arriving later this month. Arteta’s biggest date is May 30, when they will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.

After falling completely out of favor under Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, Rashford was forced to seek a move abroad last summer to keep his international ambitions alive under England boss Thomas Tuchel. Barcelona emerged as the ideal landing spot, securing his services on a one-year loan where the forward has Rediscovered his world-class form, transforming his future into a critical priority for both the player and the club.

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Rashford is fully prepared to take a significant pay cut to facilitate a permanent move from Old Trafford to the Camp Nou. The Spanish outlet underlines that the English winger has zero desire to return to the Red Devils, a stance that could give Barcelona significant leverage in negotiations with the Manchester United front office.

One straightforward path for Barcelona is to trigger the €30 million ($32.5 million) release clause that was negotiated into the initial loan agreement back in June 2025. However, pulling off a permanent transfer of that magnitude remains incredibly complicated for the Spanish side given their ongoing financial instability and La Liga’s strict Financial Fair Play restrictions.

Mundo Deportivo notes that Rashford has already agreed to personal terms on a reduced salary structure should Barcelona manage to activate that buyout clause. To make the numbers work, Barca officials are reportedly exploring a structured payout that would split the €30 million fee into three annual €10 million installments, paired with a lengthy contract extension designed to amortize the cost and keep the club compliant with league accountants.

The alternative route is to negotiate a fresh loan extension, though it remains to be seen if Manchester United will play ball, as the Premier League club would heavily prefer a permanent sale to clear his wages. Rashford’s current contract with United runs through June 2028, where he sits as one of the club’s highest earners alongside Bruno Fernandes, a financial burden that might ultimately force the Blaugrana to push for a simple one-year loan extension instead.

Hansi Flick holds Rashford in high regard after stellar campaign

Following Barcelona’s failed pursuit of Nico Williams last summer, Rashford emerged as a late market opportunity, with his substantial Premier League wages serving as the only initial hurdle. In his first true test outside of English football, the forward silenced critics by becoming an invaluable asset in Spain, racking up 14 goals and 14 assists across 48 appearances while seamlessly adjusting to a heavy squad rotation.

Whenever injuries struck, coach Hansi Flick weaponized Rashford’s versatility across the frontline, deploying him on both the left and right wings, and even using him as a central striker when Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres were sidelined. Yet, despite his productivity, Rashford’s long-term future remains completely up in the air, drawing close parallels to Joao Cancelo’s previous high-stakes loan saga at the club.

“At the end of the season, we will analyze everything, and then we will see what happens,” Flick remarked when pressed on the club’s upcoming summer transfer strategy in the press conference last Sunday. “Marcus gave us a lot this year and his numbers speak for themselves. I am very grateful to him,” added the German tactician, who clearly values the forward after recently putting pen to paper on his own contract extension through 2028.

Born in Lorient, France, on June 23, 2006, Kroupi has Ivorian roots through his father and Portuguese heritage through his mother. Those circumstances made him eligible to represent any of the three national teams, but he ultimately chose the country of his birth.

Portugal tried to convince him to join the program, as Roberto Martinez acknowledged during Tuesday’s press conference. “Yes, there was interest, we stayed ahead of the news. Before the March training camp we had contact,” explained the head coach.

However, Martinez made it clear that Kroupi’s intentions did not align with Portugal’s plans: “It is important to follow players who can represent the Portugal national team and those who want to represent it. Junior wanted to play for France and we respected it, it is a case that we left closed.”

With Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement seemingly approaching, Portugal will need young and talented forwards to build the squad for the near future, and Eli Junior Kroupi fits that profile. Still, it was difficult to imagine him having a realistic chance of making the roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup given the level of competition at the position.

Another option for France

Eli Junior Kroupi has represented France’s youth national teams over the past several years. He joined the U-16 national team in 2021 and later remained involved with the country at the U-17 and U-21 levels, most recently appearing in November 2025 against the Faroe Islands.

As for the senior national team, however, Kroupi will need to work hard to earn a spot in the near future. France already feature world-class forwards who are still relatively young and expected to remain part of the national team for years to come, such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele. In addition, emerging talents like Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, Desire Doue and Michael Olise have gradually established themselves within the squad.

Kroupi shining in the Premier League

The current 2025-26 campaign is Eli Junior Kroupi’s first season in the Premier League. He has delivered more than solid performances for Bournemouth, ranking among the league’s top 10 scorers with 13 goals in 32 matches. Beyond the numbers, the importance of those goals also stands out: in addition to scoring against Manchester City this Tuesday, the French forward also found the net this season against Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham.

According to Stefan Kumberger via SPORT1, Joško Gvardiol is interested in leaving Manchester City FC, with a potential move to Bayern Munich emerging as his preferred destination. Since his tenure at RB Leipzig, the Croatian defender has reportedly been a well-known admirer of Bayern. In addition, club legend Lothar Matthäus revealed that the German side have already made initial enquiries regarding a possible transfer.

With his contract at Manchester City running until 2028, Gvardiol’s potential departure would reportedly cost around €90 million the same fee the Citizens paid for him in 2023, as per Sport Bild. However, Bayern would first need to offload either Kim Min-jae or Hiroki Ito, as they currently lack space in their defensive rotation. With that in mind, the Croatian star’s future could ultimately be decided after the 2026 World Cup.

Despite arriving as one of the best defenders in the world, the Croatian star has struggled to fully secure a permanent starting spot. Under Pep Guardiola, he has increasingly become a rotational option, as Marc Guéhi and Nico O’Reilly have emerged as two of Manchester City’s main defensive bets. Because of this, Joško Gvardiol’s potential departure might not be as damaging to the team’s competitiveness as initially expected.

Manchester City are set to lose two stars amid Guardiola uncertainty

Heading into the 2026-27 season, Manchester City appear to be preparing for major changes within their sporting structure. With the possible departure of Pep Guardiola, the Citizens reportedly already have an agreement in place with Enzo Maresca to take charge of the sporting project. However, the Citizens will also deal with the departures of two key players: Bernardo Silva and John Stones.

Both Bernardo Silva and John Stones are expected to leave the Citizens as free agents after failing to reach agreements over contract renewals. While the English defender had gradually lost prominence within the squad, the Portuguese midfielder remained an undisputed starter for the Citizens. Because of this, Manchester City could be forced back into the transfer market, especially as they attempt to avoid further departures after the expected exit of Pep Guardiola.

Paz missed his team’s most recent match against Parma with a knee injury. While Como won that game, they remain fifth in Serie A alongside Juventus, with both teams sitting two points behind Roma and Milan in the race for Champions League qualification.

With Como closing a strong season against Cremonese on Sunday, the Italian club are willing to take another look at Paz with the intention of playing him, according to Marca. This prompted Argentina to send a staff member to assess the risk, according to Olé. His chances of being called up by the national team could ultimately decide whether he plays.

With Argentina set to make their World Cup debut against Algeria on June 16, there is still close to a month for Paz to recover, provided he does not suffer a setback or reinjure himself.

Paz’s fantastic year

Paz was already showing flashes of what he could do last season at Como. The Real Madrid product is rumored to return there soon, even if it is only to be sold again as a business decision.

But during his time in Italy, he has shown that he can lead a team to big things without a star-studded cast around him. His importance to Cesc Fàbregas is evident in him being the outfield player with the most minutes for the entire team.

The left-footed midfielder has not only been reliable, he has also been decisive. Even if he is not a striker, he has scored 12 goals in 35 Serie A matches. He has also added six assists for a total of 18 goal contributions, while being important in his team’s run to the Coppa Italia final.

Paz’s contract

Paz’s future at Como could depend heavily on which competition they play in next season, but Real Madrid are expected to be heavily involved. When the Italian club bought him, the Spanish club inserted a very low buy-back clause. If Real Madrid want him back this summer, the fee would be just 9 million euros, a huge difference compared with his market valuation of around 60 million euros.

The Gunners’ title confirmation hinged on a slip-up from relentless rivals Manchester City, who traveled to the Vitality Stadium. In a dramatic twist, Bournemouth handed Arsenal the ultimate favor, grinding out a gritty 1-1 draw against Pep Guardiola’s men to mathematically end City’s charge.

The 27-year-old took to social media to share the euphoria with the Arsenal faithful, posting a picture from the dressing room alongside teammates Kai Havertz, Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly, William Saliba, and Bukayo Saka. He captioned the post with a triumphant message to the doubters: “I told you all.. it’s done”.

Arsenal will now walk out at the Emirates Stadium for the final matchday of the season against Crystal Palace as official Premier League Champions, where they will finally lift the coveted trophy in front of a bouncing home crowd.

Arsenal going for historic Champions League title

Arsenal have enjoyed a wildly successful Premier League campaign. With just one match remaining, they boast a record of 25 victories, seven draws, and a mere five defeats. Furthermore, they rank as the league’s second-highest scoring team with 69 goals, while anchoring the division’s best defense, having conceded just 26 goals.

However, the Gunners’ success extends far beyond England. Mikel Arteta’s side is making waves across Europe and now stands on the precipice of a historic achievement, with the chance to lift its first-ever Champions League title when it face Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday, May 30, at the Puskas Arena.

On their road to the final, Arsenal displayed the same defensive resilience and tactical steel that defined their Premier League title charge, reaching the showcase event completely unbeaten.

Mikel Arteta’s side cruised through the league phase with eight victories, before navigating the knockout rounds with three wins and three draws to book their ticket to Budapest.

After an investigation was launched in response to a complaint filed by Middlesbrough, Southampton admitted to breaches against Oxford United in December 2025, Ipswich Town in April 2026, and Middlesbrough in May 2026, according to an official statement released by the English Football League.

Specifically, Southampton violated two key regulations within the EFL Championship framework. The club was charged with breaking EFL Regulation 3.4, which demands that clubs behave toward one another with the utmost good faith, and Regulation 127, which strictly prohibits any club from viewing, or attempting to view, another club’s training session within 72 hours of a scheduled match between the two sides.

Furthermore, the EFL announced that Southampton retains the right to appeal the decision made by the Independent Disciplinary Committee, noting that the club is actively working to resolve any appeal by Wednesday, May 20. In light of this, the governing body indicated that scheduling adjustments could be made for the final on Saturday, May 24, depending on the outcome.

Who’s replacing Southampton?

Following the confirmation of Southampton’s expulsion from the EFL Championship playoffs, Middlesbrough will step in to replace the Saints. They will now face Hull City for a place in the Premier League on Saturday, May 24, at Wembley Stadium.

Middlesbrough’s selection as the replacement stems from the fact that they were the team defeated by Southampton in the playoff semifinals, suffering a narrow 1-0 loss on aggregate.

What other charges will Southampton face?

On top of being barred from competing in the EFL Championship playoff final—missing out on a guaranteed minimum revenue of £110 million from Premier League broadcasting rights—Southampton have also been hit with a four-point deduction, which will be applied at the start of next season.

Match Overview

Everything is on the line in Group D as Boca Juniors return to La Bombonera for a massive showdown against Cruzeiro. After opening the campaign with back-to-back wins before dropping their last two matches, Boca enter the night sitting third in the standings with six points and little margin for error in the race for a knockout-round spot.

Cruzeiro, meanwhile, hold second place with seven points and know a strong result on the road would put them in excellent position heading into the final Matchday. With qualification hopes hanging in the balance for both clubs, expect a high-intensity battle in one of South America’s most electric atmospheres.

Arsenal last won the Premier League trophy 22 years ago, when they captured the 2003-04 title under legendary head coach Arsene Wenger. That squad finished comfortably ahead of runners-up Chelsea, who ended the campaign 11 points behind.

The Gunners that season featured stars such as Thierry Henry — the Premier League’s top scorer that year with 30 goals — Dennis Bergkamp, Robert Pires, Cesc Fabregas, Patrick Vieira and Ashley Cole. During that campaign, they earned the nickname ‘The Invincibles’ after going unbeaten across all 38 league matches.

The 2025-26 title under Mikel Arteta is Arsenal’s fourth since the creation of the Premier League in 1992. Before 2004, they had also been crowned champions in 1997-98 and 2001-02. Prior to that, the London side won 10 titles in the old Football League First Division, which served as England’s top flight for more than a century.

The 22-year drought Arsenal ended this Tuesday was the longest spell without a league title in club history since their first championship in 1931. Their previous longest droughts lasted 18 years, between 1953 and 1971, and then again until 1989.

Clubs with the most English league titles

Taking into account both the Football League First Division and Premier League eras, Arsenal are the third-most successful club in English league history with 14 titles. Only Manchester United and Liverpool rank higher, with 20 each.

Here is the full list of English league champions:

1- Manchester United – 20 titles
1- Liverpool – 20 titles
3- Arsenal – 14 titles
4- Manchester City – 10 titles
5- Everton – 9 titles
6- Aston Villa – 7 titles
7- Chelsea – 6 titles
7- Sunderland – 6 titles
9- Sheffield Wednesday – 4 titles
9- Newcastle United – 4 titles

Arsenal facing another historic opportunity

This Arsenal squad will be remembered for ending the longest league-title drought in club history by winning the Premier League. But they could elevate their legacy even further by claiming what would arguably be the most important trophy in the club’s history.

On May 30 at Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary, Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final. There, the Gunners will have the chance to win the competition for the first time, as it will be only their second appearance in the final after losing to Barcelona in 2006.

After the latest defeat Mohamed Salah posted a strong message on his X profile, criticizing the team’s poor run of results. In addition, the Egyptian star appeared to take aim at Arne Slot’s tactical approach, making it clear that he wants to see the more attacking style. With this becoming his second major public criticism, Carragher sees strong similarities between the Egyptian and Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial exit from the Red Devils.

“I’m not surprised. I told everyone: something’s going to happen before the end of the season. He’ll drop another bombshell, a bit like Ronaldo did when he left Manchester United… I called him selfish in an interview, and I still stand by that. Liverpool have a crucial week coming up; they haven’t secured their Champions League spot yet, and the focus should be on Liverpool FC, not Salah FC,” Carragher said, via Sky Sports.

Like Salah, Ronaldo also made explosive remarks about Manchester United. “When I signed for Manchester United, I expected things to have changed. I spent nine years at Real Madrid, then at Juventus… but I was negatively surprised. Everything was still the same — the technology, everything… Right now, it’s a club that is not at the highest level,” he said, via Piers Morgan. With this in mind, both stars left under controversial circumstances, despite being legends.

Arne Slot may not rule out Salah vs. Brentford after his remarks

Not only has Jamie Carragher criticized Mohamed Salah for his recent comments, but Wayne Rooney has also publicly questioned the Egyptian star’s behavior, suggesting that he should be dropped for the match vs Brentford. Because of this, Arne Slot appears to have significant backing if he chooses to bench the legend for his final match at Anfield. Even so, the Dutch head coach may not have intention of completely leaving the 34-year-old star out of the squad.

Liverpool FC have revealed that a special mosaic will be displayed at Anfield to honor both Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson. Because of this, Arne Slot is not expected to leave the Egyptian star out of the stands entirely due to the farewell tribute for both legends. In addition, the Dutch head coach already gave Salah minutes against Aston Villa, making it clear that there are no physical concerns surrounding the 34-year-old forward.

Match Overview

Houston Dynamo shift their focus from the MLS playoff race to the US Open Cup. With 21 points and only eight behind Western Conference leaders Vancouver Whitecaps, Houston remain in solid form heading into a knockout clash against St. Louis City SC.

St. Louis battling near the bottom of the standings. For them, this tournament represents one of the few remaining chances to salvage their season, adding even more pressure to a matchup neither side can afford to lose. Don’t miss this high-stakes cup showdown.

The Saudi Pro League has grown rapidly since Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in early 2023. Since then, some of soccer’s biggest names have followed him to the Kingdom, transforming the league into one of the sport’s fastest-growing competitions.

According to reports circulating from meetings involving league officials and club representatives, several new proposals are currently being considered behind closed doors. The discussions could lead to one of the most significant rule changes since the Saudi Pro League began aggressively recruiting international stars.

Ronaldo himself recently acknowledged the impact his transfer had on Saudi soccer’s global rise. Speaking in a conversation with England great Rio Ferdinand, the Portuguese forward made it clear he believes his move opened the door for many of the league’s elite signings. “I was the first to come to this league, and the rest came because of me,” the 41-year-old superstar said.

His arrival was later followed by players such as Karim Benzema, Neymar, N’Golo Kante, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrez, and Ivan Toney. Saudi soccer authorities now appear ready to take another ambitious step. The latest discussions focus on how many foreign players clubs should be allowed to use during league matches.

Three possible options under discussion

Zone 1 has revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that three separate foreign player models are currently being debated by Saudi Pro League officials. Meetings with club executives are already underway, with a final decision expected soon.

The first proposal would allow 10 foreign players on the pitch at the same time. Such a move would create one of the most internationally focused domestic leagues in world soccer.

The second proposal, which is reportedly closest to approval, would permit nine foreign players on the field while one foreign player would be excluded from the matchday squad. Many insiders believe this option offers a compromise between competitiveness and squad balance.

The third option would keep stricter limits in place by allowing eight foreign players on the pitch while two remain on the bench. Supporters of this approach believe it offers the best long-term pathway for Saudi player development.

Current rules already changed the league structure

The Saudi Pro League already introduced major foreign player reforms ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. Under the current system, clubs can register 25 players, including up to 10 non-Saudi players.

Eight foreign players can be senior internationals without age restrictions, while two additional foreign spots are reserved for players born in 2003 or later. Clubs may also register one foreign-born player who was born inside Saudi Arabia and meets specific eligibility criteria.

On matchdays, teams are currently allowed to field eight foreign players plus one Saudi-born foreign player. That means a maximum of nine non-Saudi players can appear during league matches under existing regulations.

League officials introduced these rules in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Soccer Federation as part of a broader long-term development plan. Workshops involving club representatives reportedly played a major role before the framework was approved.

Match Overview

With a US Open Cup semifinal spot on the line, Orlando City SC and Atlanta United meet again after a 1-1 draw last Saturday that highlighted how little separates them. Orlando enters with 14 MLS points, just three shy of the Play-In line.

Facing the Florida team will be Atlanta United, who sit on 11 and still chasing the same cutoff, but league form takes a back seat in this knockout rematch where fine margins are expected to decide it. Don’t miss it.

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According to a report from Saudi outlet Al-Riyadiyah, Brozovic underwent an additional treatment session on Tuesday, but his chances of featuring in the season finale have significantly diminished.

The Croatian midfielder was notably absent from Al Nassr’s recent 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, after picking up a muscle injury during the dramatic 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.

However, it is not all bad news for Cristiano Ronaldo. Reports suggest that Kingsley Coman has fully recovered ahead of the crucial SPL showdown. After coming off the bench against Gamba Osaka, the French forward is expected to return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s match against Damac.

Optimism surrounding other players

Brozovic’s injury brings plenty of anxiety to the Al Nassr camp, given that their entire season rests on this final fixture against Damac. Amidst this setback, the club did receive some positive updates regarding other players who were previously considered doubts due to various fitness concerns.

In addition to Coman, the report notes that Angelo Gabriel, Abdulelah Al-Amri, and Abdullah Al-Khaibari will undergo a specialized treatment session before training. This is intended to ensure they are completely pain-free before being cleared for selection in Thursday’s season finale.

A massive loss for Cristiano

Losing Brozovic is undoubtedly a heavy blow to Al Nassr’s midfield, where he provides crucial defensive stability and dictates the tempo of the play. It is equally a major setback for Cristiano Ronaldo, as the two boast impressive numbers when sharing the pitch.

Out of the 105 matches the duo have played together, Al Nassr have emerged victorious in 75, drawing 11 and losing just 19. Furthermore, Cristiano has found the back of the net five times courtesy of a Brozovic assist, while the Croatian playmaker has scored twice from Ronaldo’s setups.

City head into the fixture in strong form domestically, riding an unbeaten run of 22 games capped by a 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Chelsea at the weekend. Bournemouth, however, will be no pushover, having gone 16 Premier League games unbeaten themselves while keeping alive their remarkable push to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the club’s history.

The backdrop at Manchester City is complicated further by reports emerging over the weekend that Pep Guardiola will be departing at the end of the season. While no official announcement has been made, the news has added an emotionally charged dimension to the final stretch of the campaign, and it remains to be seen how the squad responds on the pitch.

How a Man City win affects the Premier League title race

A victory for City on Tuesday would push them to 80 points from 37 games and keep the title race alive heading into the final weekend. The gap behind Arsenal would be cut to two points, but with the Gunners needing just a point from their final game, the odds are firmly in their favor.

On the final matchday, Arsenal travel to Crystal Palace, a side already safe from relegation and with their sights set on the UEFA Conference League final. City, meanwhile, would host Aston Villa, a tougher proposition, and would need to win while hoping Arsenal stumble, an unlikely but no longer impossible scenario.

How a Man City draw affects the Premier League title race

A draw at Bournemouth would effectively end the title race on Tuesday night. The point would leave City on 78, and with Arsenal sitting on 82, the four-point gap would be mathematically insurmountable heading into the final matchday.

That outcome would hand Arsenal the Premier League title without them needing to play on Sunday, a significant boost with the Champions League final also on the horizon. It would also mark the club’s first league title since the legendary “Invincibles” season of 2003-04.

How a Man City defeat affects the Premier League title race

A loss for City at the Vitality Stadium would also bring the title race to a close. Bournemouth’s victory would leave the Citizens stranded on 77 points from 37 games, five behind Arsenal, a gap that cannot be closed in a single remaining fixture.

In that scenario, the Premier League trophy would be heading to the Emirates regardless of what happens on the final day, with Arsenal crowned champions for the first time in over two decades.

“It’s fantastic to be teammates with Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s one of the greatest players in history. I feel very proud to share a dressing room with him, to learn from him, and to witness his professionalism. I hope we can win the World Cup with him and also for him… his approach to football is extremely professional and serious. He leaves nothing to chance: he steps onto the pitch knowing he is at 100%,” Vitinha said, via FIFA.

While Cristiano Ronaldo is no longer the central axis of Portugal, Vitinha has made it clear that the veteran striker remains the unquestioned leader. In their pursuit of the anticipated, World Cup title, they could maintain their collective-focused approach. Because of this, the 40-year-old striker now has another primary responsibility: Keeping as the team’s most productive goalscorer while acting as the perfect complement to an already balanced and solid squad.

As this will likely be Cristiano’s final participation in the World Cup, the veteran striker could arrive more motivated than ever. While he is widely considered one of the greatest players in history, he has never finished as the tournament’s top scorer, something he could now be determined to change. Unlike previous editions, Portugal possess a far more balanced squad between youth and experience, increasing their chances of competing for the title.

Portugal bench depth may be decisive at the 2026 World Cup

Portugal have proven to possess one of the deepest and most competitive squads in UEFA. Due to the outstanding level of Vitinha, João Neves, and Bruno Fernandes, head coach Roberto Martínez has even been forced to leave players such as Bernardo Silva or João Félix on the bench. Rather than becoming a problem for the 2026 World Cup, their impressive depth could give them a major advantage, allowing them to emerge as one of the strongest candidates.

Coming off a highly demanding season, Roberto Martínez’s team could suffer injuries and physical fatigue during the 2026 World Cup, making their impressive bench depth a potentially decisive factor. Portugal have huge quality to replace key roles such as those of Bruno Fernandes without suffering a major drop in level. Moreover, Ronaldo could once again have his minutes carefully managed, giving Gonçalo Ramos more opportunities without affecting the team’s impact.

Reports from the Kingdom claim negotiations between Al-Nassr and Guardiola are already underway. The move would represent another major statement from Saudi soccer, which continues attracting some of the sport’s biggest stars.

The Spaniard is expected to take charge of Manchester City for the final time this weekend, bringing an extraordinary chapter at the Etihad Stadium toward its conclusion. Since arriving in 2016, the Catalan coach transformed City into one of the most dominant clubs European soccer has ever seen.

During his ten years in Manchester, Guardiola won six Premier League titles, multiple domestic cups, and delivered the club’s first UEFA Champions League trophy. His teams also completed a historic treble in 2023 after lifting the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in the same season.

The Manchester City manager leaves behind a soccer philosophy that reshaped English soccer. His possession-based system, positional play, and tactical innovation became the standard that many clubs attempted to imitate.

Al-Nassr prepares extraordinary offer

While Guardiola’s farewell dominates headlines in England, Saudi Arabia is already preparing an astonishing proposal to convince him to continue his career in Riyadh. With Manchester City future already out of the picture for Pep Guardiola, he is sadi to be in talks with Al-Nassr to take over as head coach of the club.

According to Saudi newspaper Al-Youm, Ronaldo’s side has offered Guardiola an annual salary worth $150 million, which would make him the highest-paid manager in soccer history. This sum illustrates the Middle Eastern club’s resolve to get a highly renowned soccer coach. It would place Guardiola far above every other manager financially and further demonstrate the growing ambition of the Saudi Pro League.

“Al-Nassr Saudi Club offered Guardiola to coach the team, with an annual salary of $150 million, which would be the highest salary in history,” the report confirmed. The timing of the move also connects directly to uncertainty surrounding Jorge Jesus. Reports in recent days suggested the Portuguese coach is close to leaving Al-Nassr despite guiding the club through a strong campaign.

Jorge Jesus’ future creates opening at Al-Nassr

Al-Nassr remains locked in an intense Saudi Pro League title battle, but speculation around Jorge Jesus continues growing. The Portuguese manager reportedly does not plan to stay beyond the current season, even with the club competing for major trophies.

That uncertainty appears to have accelerated Al-Nassr’s search for a potential successor. Guardiola instantly emerged as the dream target due to his global reputation and proven ability to build winning teams. The possibility of Ronaldo working under the 55-year-old boss would also create one of the most fascinating storylines in soccer.

The pair famously shared a fierce rivalry during Guardiola’s years managing Barcelona while Ronaldo starred for Real Madrid. Now, years later, Saudi Arabia could unexpectedly unite two of soccer’s most iconic figures under the same project.

Last week, Argentina officially announced their preliminary 55-player squad, headlined by Lionel Messi and notable absences Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala. That number, however, must now be reduced, and reports indicate progress has already been made in that process.

“The Argentina national team reserved approximately 35 players with notifications sent to European clubs. They are not going to bring everyone to Argentina,” TyC Sports journalist Gaston Edul, who specializes in covering Argentina, said Tuesday on his official X account.

This means that, from the original 55-player list, several players will be cut even before the final roster is confirmed. The decision is tied to players based outside the country, as traveling to South America would be unreasonable if they are already no longer part of Scaloni’s plans.

Aside from those players, there are also several pre-selected players currently playing for clubs in Argentina and Brazil whose release is not necessary until the final moment, since they will not need to travel long distances. They are Facundo Cambeses, Santiago Beltran, Agustin Giay, Gonzalo Montiel, Lucas Martinez Quarta, German Pezzella, Lautaro Di Lollo, Marcos Acuña, Gabriel Rojas, Leandro Paredes, Anibal Moreno, Milton Delgado, Tomas Andrada and Jose Lopez.

When must Argentina announce their final World Cup squad?

While some national teams such as France, Portugal and Brazil have already announced their final 26-player squads for the World Cup, FIFA regulations allow teams to delay that decision for a few more days, with the deadline set for June 1.

However, reports indicate that Lionel Scaloni will not wait until the final day to announce the cuts. “The national team coaching staff are already in the country and the idea is to make the decision on the final World Cup squad this week,” Gaston Edul added on X.

Argentina players dealing with injury concerns

One of the main reasons Lionel Scaloni has likely not yet announced the final World Cup roster — and has instead only reduced the list to 35 players — is that several players are dealing with fitness issues, with their recovery being closely monitored.

Cristian Romero has been ruled out for the remainder of Tottenham’s season, although he is expected to be fit for Argentina’s opening match against Algeria on June 16. Gonzalo Montiel and Nahuel Molina are in similar situations, while Nicolas Gonzalez is expected to make a full recovery soon from a muscle injury.

Al Nassr’s international run forced them to play their Matchday 33 fixture early, a couple of weeks ago against Al Shabab. That victory gave them a five-point lead over their closest challengers, Al Hilal. As a result, Karim Benzema’s team entered Saturday needing a win to take the title race into the final round of the season.

And they delivered. Simone Inzaghi’s side earned a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Ruben Neves from the penalty spot and Sultan Mandash. With the win, Al Hilal cut the gap at the top of the Saudi Pro League standings to two points, keeping their title hopes alive heading into Tuesday.

Al Nassr remain atop the Saudi Pro League standings with 83 points, meaning they still control their own destiny in the title race. However, any slip-up next week could allow Al Hilal to snatch the trophy away from them.

What’s next for Al Nassr and Al Hilal?

The 2025-26 Saudi Pro League will conclude next Thursday with Matchday 34, the final round of the season. Final standings will determine relegation, qualification for continental competitions, and, of course, the league title.

League leaders Al Nassr will face Damac in a match with major implications at both ends of the table. While Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates will be chasing the win needed to secure the trophy, their opponents will be fighting to avoid relegation. Right now, they sit just two points above the drop zone, currently occupied by Al Riyadh.

Al Hilal, meanwhile, appear to face a tougher challenge on paper. Instead of meeting a team near the bottom of the standings, they will take on a side that has enjoyed a more stable season. Al Fayha currently sit 11th in the table, although having nothing left to play for in the final matchday could affect their intensity.

Possible scenarios for the Saudi Pro League title race

All Matchday 34 games in the Saudi Pro League will kick off simultaneously on Tuesday to prevent teams from gaining an advantage by knowing other results beforehand and adjusting their strategy accordingly.

For Al Hilal, the mission is clear. Sitting two points behind leaders Al Nassr, their only chance of overtaking them is by defeating Al Fayha. If Karim Benzema and his teammates fail to win their own match, they will have no chance of lifting the trophy.

Al Nassr, meanwhile, have a wider range of possibilities in front of them. A victory would secure the Saudi Pro League title regardless of any other result. But if they fail to win, they will need to keep a close eye on what happens elsewhere.

If Al Nassr draw or lose against Damac and Al Hilal fail to win, Cristiano Ronaldo would still lift the trophy. If Al Nassr lose and Al Hilal win, Benzema would claim the league title instead. However, if Al Nassr draw and Al Hilal win, both teams would finish level on points. In that case, the tiebreaker would come down to head-to-head results during the season, where Al Hilal hold the advantage after winning one meeting and drawing the other.

Portugal arrives in North America carrying momentum after winning the UEFA Nations League and producing a strong qualifying campaign. With stars spread across Europe and Saudi Arabia, the squad combines experience, technical quality, and depth in nearly every position.

At 41 years old, Ronaldo remains the face of the national team. Time may have changed parts of his game, but his influence inside the squad remains impossible to ignore for both teammates and the coaching staff.

What did Roberto Martinez say about Ronaldo’s importance?

During the squad announcement, Martinez made it clear that Ronaldo’s value to Portugal extends beyond goals and headlines. The Spanish coach praised the Al-Nassr forward for the leadership qualities he continues to bring to the dressing room. “I hope he continues to play the same role he has had over the last three years that I’ve been with the national team,” the manager explained.

The Portugal boss also stressed that Ronaldo remains fully committed despite his legendary status in soccer: “I’ve spoken a lot about Cristiano. When we talk about him, there are two players. The global soccer icon, about whom all soccer fans around the world have an opinion and recognize what he brings to the game, and then there is our captain,” Martinez said.

The coach insisted that Ronaldo is treated like every other player in the squad when it comes to standards and competitiveness. “He has the same demands as every other player, the same competitiveness to be part of the national team,” he added.

Ronaldo’s role finally becomes clear

As the discussion around Ronaldo’s future continues to grow, Martinez revealed that the Portugal captain will continue serving as one of the team’s main leaders both on and off the pitch during the World Cup. The coach specifically pointed to the veteran forward’s influence inside the locker room and his importance during Portugal’s recent Nations League triumph.

“For me, he is an exemplary captain. He was crucial in winning the Nations League, and now we want the same level of responsibility and leadership in the dressing room,” Martinez said. Thus, it is safe to say that the Portugal manager values the veteran’s experience highly heading into the tournament.

While the forward may no longer rely on explosive pace or constant dribbling, his mentality and understanding of major tournaments remain central to Portugal’s ambitions. Ronaldo is now preparing for a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance after previously playing in Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, and Qatar 2022. No male player has ever reached six World Cups before.

Al-Nassr currently leads the table with 83 points, while Al-Hilal sits close behind on 81 points after 33 matches. As both clubs chase domestic glory, reports emerging from Italy and Saudi Arabia suggest major changes could soon arrive on the benches of both title contenders.

The Saudi Pro League title battle will go down to the final round after Al-Hilal kept its hopes alive with a victory over NEOM. That result ensured Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr could not celebrate the championship early, leaving the pressure firmly on Jorge Jesus and his players ahead of the decisive matchday. Al-Nassr knows that a victory over Damac will secure the club’s first domestic league title since 2019, regardless of what happens elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the Blue Waves must defeat Al-Fayha and hope its rival drops points if the club wants to complete a late comeback and secure a record-extending 20th league title. The tension surrounding the title race has only intensified because of the uncertainty around both managers.

Reports in recent days have suggested that Jorge Jesus is already considering his future away from Al-Nassr despite leading the club through one of its strongest campaigns in recent years. According to ESPN Brasil journalist Bruno Andrade, the veteran Portuguese coach does not intend to renew his contract beyond the current season. His long-term ambition is reportedly linked to the Portugal national team job after the 2026 World Cup.

Simone Inzaghi’s future suddenly becomes uncertain

At the same time, attention has also turned toward Al-Hilal boss Simone Inzaghi. The Italian coach arrived in Saudi Arabia last summer after leaving Inter, signing a lucrative two-year deal reportedly worth around $30 million per season.

However, despite impressive results on paper, reports now indicate that Simone Inzaghi is expected to leave Al-Hilal after only one season in charge. The decision is expected to become official after the club’s final league match.

According to reports from TuttoMercatoWeb, dissatisfaction over expensive summer signings and changes within the club’s ownership structure played a major role in shaping the situation. Several high-profile transfers reportedly failed to meet expectations, placing added pressure on the coaching staff despite the team remaining competitive throughout the season.

Inzaghi’s overall numbers remain extremely strong. Under his leadership, Al-Hilal played 51 matches, winning 37, drawing 12, and losing only twice. Still, expectations at Al-Hilal go beyond strong statistics. The club expects dominance both domestically and internationally, especially after investing heavily in the squad during the summer transfer window.

Why Al-Hilal may still move on despite strong results

Although Al-Hilal remains unbeaten for most of the season and continues fighting for the title until the final day, internal expectations reportedly remain much higher. Expensive arrivals such as Darwin Nunez reportedly failed to fully convince the club hierarchy, creating frustration behind the scenes.

The report also indicates that a recent ownership change at Al-Hilal has influenced the club’s direction moving forward. The new leadership is believed to be considering a different long-term vision despite Inzaghi maintaining impressive results during his short spell in Riyadh.

At the same time, Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr faces its own uncertainty surrounding Jorge Jesus. The possibility of both title rivals entering next season with new managers would completely reshape the Saudi soccer landscape.

Portugal enters the competition carrying major expectations after winning the UEFA Nations League and completing an impressive qualifying campaign. With Ronaldo still leading the line at 41 years old, the national team heads into the tournament believing it can finally capture the one trophy missing from its history.

The upcoming tournament will mark Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup appearance, a feat no male footballer has ever achieved before. The Al-Nassr forward already holds records for most international appearances and goals in men’s soccer, and now he is set to add another remarkable milestone to his career.

Portugal has won the UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Nations League during Ronaldo’s era, but the World Cup remains the one major trophy still missing. That reality has added extra emotion to the build-up around the Selecao ahead of the competition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

“This one definitely would be my last World Cup,” Ronaldo previously admitted in an interview cited by several outlets. The statement has only increased attention on what could become the final international tournament of his career.

Roberto Martinez reveals Portugal’s plans

Martinez spoke openly about the unique challenges awaiting teams at the expanded 48-nation tournament. The Portugal coach believes preparation and adaptability will matter just as much as talent during a month-long competition spread across three countries. “We’re talking about going into the unknown,” he explained. “Forty-eight teams means a longer period. You need to have incredible resilience.”

The Spanish coach also highlighted the travel demands, weather conditions, and time-zone complications facing every national team involved. Portugal has already studied logistics carefully, especially after Martinez observed last year’s Club World Cup in the United States as part of FIFA’s technical study group. “The complexity of playing with different time zones, of playing with the heat, the humidity, and almost moments of uncertainty when you get the storms,” Martinez said.

Portugal’s final 27-man World Cup squad confirmed

After weeks of speculation, Martinez officially named the 27-man squad that will represent Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo headlines a group packed with elite-level experience and attacking quality.

The squad includes several players from Europe’s biggest clubs, with Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Barcelona all heavily represented. Martinez also decided to take an additional goalkeeper in the preliminary travelling group, although only 26 players will officially be registered unless injuries force changes.

Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Jose Sa, Rui Silva, Ricardo Velho

Defenders: Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, Nuno Mendes, Nelson Semedo, Matheus Nunes, Goncalo Inacio, Renato Veiga, Tomas Araujo

Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Joao Neves, Vitinha, Ruben Neves, Samu Costa

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, Goncalo Ramos, Pedro Neto, Francisco Conceicao, Francisco Trincao, Goncalo Guedes

Several notable names narrowly missed out, including Antonio Silva and Joao Palhinha. Martinez instead prioritized versatility, depth in wide areas, and tactical flexibility across the squad.

Portugal officially named a 27-player traveling group instead of the standard 26-man World Cup squad, immediately raising questions among supporters. The decision created intrigue ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, especially as the national team enters the competition among the favorites following its UEFA Nations League triumph.

Ronaldo once again remains the central figure of the Portugal setup despite entering the final stage of his career. Along with Lionel Messi and Guillermo Ochoa, the Al-Nassr attacker will make history at this summer’s tournament by becoming one of the very few male players to feature in six consecutive tournaments.

The Selecao captain will lead a squad packed with elite-level talent from across Europe’s biggest leagues. Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leao, Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Ruben Dias are all expected to play key roles as Martinez attempts to guide the national team toward its first World Cup triumph.

Portugal enters Group K alongside Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The campaign begins in Houston before later matches in Miami and additional fixtures across North America.

Roberto Martinez explains unusual squad decision

The biggest talking point from the announcement quickly became the squad size itself. FIFA regulations allow only 26 officially registered players, yet Martinez intentionally traveled with 27 players. In fact, the Selecao included fourth-choice goalkeeper Ricardo Velho as an additional traveling player for training support and emergency cover for injuries.

Velho, who currently plays for Genclerbirligi Ankara, will stay with the squad throughout the tournament but cannot officially feature unless one of Portugal’s three registered goalkeepers suffers an injury. FIFA rules permit replacements in those circumstances, which opened the door for Martinez to make the unusual decision.

“The complexity of the tournament is very important,” Martinez explained after unveiling the squad. “There are positions where we need to have more than two players per position.” The Portugal coach pointed toward travel demands, climate conditions, and scheduling difficulties as major concerns heading into the first 48-team World Cup in history.

Why Portugal believes extra depth matters

The expanded format of the tournament has created new challenges for every national team involved. Long-distance travel between venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico means recovery and preparation could become just as important as tactics.

Martinez has spent months studying those conditions and believes flexibility could become decisive later in the competition. Carrying an additional goalkeeper allows Portugal to maintain full-intensity training sessions without risking exhaustion or overworking the main three keepers. “The demands of the weather, the time zone, everything we already experienced in March,” Martinez said while discussing the squad structure.

João Pedro’s impressive first season at Chelsea has reportedly called the attention from the Blaugranas, making him their priority signing. After recently paying €63.7 million to Brighton & Hove Albion FC, the Blues reportedly have no intention of letting the Brazilian striker leave during the summer of 2026. Even so, failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League could push João to force a move towards Barcelona. In light of this, Osimhen’s arrival emerges as a key asset.

According to Graeme Bailey, via TEAMtalk, the representatives of Victor Osimhen are actively seeking an exit from Galatasaray SK, as the Nigerian striker wants to compete once again in Europe’s top leagues. Because of this, Chelsea have reportedly reignited their interest in his signing, considering his arrival completely necessary. In addition, Alonso’s appointment could further attract Osimhen toward Stamford Bridge.

Despite Chelsea FC’s strong interest in Victor Osimhen, completing the transfer would be far from simple. As a cornerstone player for Galatasaray SK, they would demand a fee close to €100 million, according to TEAMtalk. For Xabi Alonso to secure the Nigerian striker, the potential departure of João Pedro to Barcelona could become crucial, as the Blues would likely need a comparable financial income to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.

Xabi Alonso faces difficult task to rebuild Chelsea’s roster

Since BlueCo took over Chelsea, they has invested heavily in signing young players. However, neither Enzo Maresca nor Liam Rosenior managed to fully develop several of those talents, with Mamadou Sarr, Dário Essugo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Roméo Lavia among the clearest examples. Because of this, Xabi Alonso now faces the difficult task of rebuilding the squad, while also deciding which players should leave the club during the summer of 2026.

With such a defined tactical identity, Xabi Alonso could decide not to rely on several of Chelsea’s expensive signings, with Alejandro Garnacho emerging as one of the most notable cases. In addition, the defensive line remains the most crowded area of the squad, yet it still fails to fully convince. Because of this, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Benoît Badiashile could all leave the club, as the Spanish head coach reportedly prefers more developed players.

“Managing is something very natural. In a World Cup, you do not follow a pattern that fits the club, the age, none of that. Everyone is focused and we have to manage the day-to-day well, that is all. We can talk about many dreams, but we only have three matches to start, this is our World Cup. And we have to manage these three in the best way possible,” Roberto Martinez said in the latest press conference.

While being in excellent form at Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to remain a starter for Portugal, especially after shining during the UEFA qualifiers. However, the head coach has also demonstrated strong management of the veteran striker’s playing time, as is often substituted for Gonçalo Ramos. That rotation has become a key factor in preserving the 40-year-old’s physical condition and could once again be heavily utilized during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup expected to be Cristiano Ronaldo’s final appearance in the competition, he could arrive especially motivated, particularly because he has never finished as the tournament’s top scorer in any previous edition. In addition, he now has a major opportunity to finally win the anticipated tournament, as Portugal are currently in outstanding form and recently lifted the UEFA Nations League.

Cristiano Ronaldo emerges as a key asset for Portugal, not a cornerstone

Unlike the final stage of Fernando Santos’ tenure, Cristiano Ronaldo has remained a key figure under Roberto Martínez with Portugal. Recognizing the veteran striker’s age, the Portuguese head coach has decided to protect his physical condition by allowing him to focus almost exclusively on scoring duties, reducing his defensive responsibilities and pressing workload. Even so, the 40-year-old striker is no longer the true cornerstone of the national team.

Heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Portugal appear to have adopted a very different approach compared to previous editions, moving away from dependence on a single player and instead emphasizing collective play. Because of this, Vitinha, João Neves, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes have emerged as the key figures of the squad. In this structure, Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the ideal complement to an already balanced and solid team.

Match Overview

Chelsea enters this London derby with their season in tatters. Once targeting Champions League qualification, the Blues have plummeted to 10th place and are currently mired in a seven-game Premier League winless streak. Fresh off a devastating FA Cup final loss to Manchester City, the club is playing for little more than pride and a slim chance at qualifying for the Conference League. The pressure is on to deliver a statement performance for a frustrated Stamford Bridge crowd.

For Tottenham, the stakes could not be higher. Perched just two points above the relegation zone, this match represents a golden opportunity to secure their Premier League survival. Under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, Spurs have found a crucial run of form, going undefeated in their last four matches. A victory would mathematically guarantee their safety, making this clash at the home of their rivals a season-defining moment.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The trajectories of these two clubs this season could not be more different. Chelsea‘s campaign has been one of steady decline, falling far short of lofty preseason expectations and now facing the prospect of no European soccer. In stark contrast, Tottenham has engineered a late-season revival under De Zerbi, collecting eight points in their last four games—a total that took them 17 matches to accumulate previously. This surge has given them a fighting chance at survival.

The tactical battle will likely pit Chelsea‘s possession-based approach against Tottenham’s newfound defensive resilience. The Blues will dominate the ball at home but have struggled to convert possession into victories. Spurs, meanwhile, have become incredibly organized under their new manager, reversing a trend of conceding early goals. The match will be won or lost on whether Chelsea’s talented attackers, like Cole Palmer and João Pedro, can break down a disciplined and desperate Tottenham side playing for their top-flight lives.

Motivation is the driving force behind this encounter. Chelsea is playing to salvage a disastrous season, end a painful winless run, and potentially play a role in relegating a major rival. For Tottenham, the objective is clear and absolute: secure the points needed to stay in the Premier League. With West Ham close behind them, anything less than a positive result could send their fight down to a nerve-wracking final day.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been dominated by Chelsea, particularly at Stamford Bridge. Tottenham‘s record at this venue is notoriously poor, with the North London club having won just one of their last 35 away league games against the Blues, a run stretching back decades. This history provides a significant psychological advantage for the home side, even amidst their poor form.

Recent encounters have only reinforced Chelsea‘s dominance. The Blues are currently on a five-match winning streak against Tottenham in all competitions, including a 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season. In those five games, Chelsea has kept three clean sheets, consistently finding ways to neutralize the Spurs attack and secure narrow, hard-fought wins.

From a statistical standpoint, the data points heavily in Chelsea‘s favor. Tottenham’s last league victory at Stamford Bridge was in April 2018, an outlier in a long history of struggles. The combination of Chelsea‘s recent head-to-head superiority and Tottenham‘s historical struggles on this ground makes any positive result for the visitors a significant upset against established trends.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both teams enter this crucial London derby with significant roster challenges, as injuries and suspensions force tactical adjustments from both managers.

Chelsea will be without winger Mykhaylo Mudryk due to suspension, further limiting their attacking options. The club also continues to miss the services of Estêvão and Jamie Gittens, who are sidelined with hamstring injuries. These absences put additional pressure on Cole Palmer and João Pedro to create and finish chances.

Tottenham is contending with a catastrophic injury crisis. A long list of key players, including Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski, and Xavi Simons, are out for the remainder of the season. Further doubts over the availability of Mohammed Kudus and Dominic Solanke mean that manager Roberto De Zerbi must rely on a depleted squad for this must-win fixture.

Chelsea Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, James; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Joao Pedro.
This lineup reflects Chelsea‘s go-to formation, relying on the midfield control of Fernandez and the creativity of Palmer to supply chances for João Pedro. With their season on the line, expect the Blues to field their strongest available side to control possession and break down their rivals.

Tottenham Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Kinsky; Pedro Porro, Danso, van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Palhinha; Kolo Muani, Gallagher, Tel; Richarlison.
Despite the extensive injury list, De Zerbi will field a team built on defensive solidity and counter-attacking potential. The focus will be on remaining compact and disciplined, with Richarlison tasked to lead the line and convert any opportunities that arise from Chelsea‘s mistakes.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Chelsea vs Tottenham live stream on Peacock. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices running iOS or Android, as well as web browsers.

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A subscription to the service costs just $10.99/mo, offering a cost-effective way to follow all the action from the top leagues around the world. The plan includes access to all live matches, replays, and highlight shows.

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SEE MORE: Premier League TV schedule

How to watch anywhere with VPN

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Match Overview

Bournemouth enters this clash in historic form, riding an incredible 16-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League. Andoni Iraola‘s side has transformed the Vitality Stadium into a fortress and is on the verge of securing a top-eight finish. With an outside chance at European qualification still on the line, the Cherries are not just playing for pride; they are aiming to cap off a remarkable season with a statement win against the reigning champions.

For Manchester City, the stakes could not be higher. Locked in a tense title race with Arsenal, anything less than a victory could prove fatal to their championship aspirations. Pep Guardiola’s squad is familiar with the immense pressure of the season’s final stretch, having won nine of their last ten matches across all competitions. This trip to the South Coast is a must-win fixture, and the Citizens will arrive with the singular focus of securing three crucial points.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This match presents a fascinating contrast in season trajectories. Bournemouth has defied all expectations, putting together a record-breaking unbeaten run to surge up the table. They have become one of the most resilient and difficult teams to break down in the league. Manchester City, meanwhile, is on its familiar, relentless march toward the title, combining domestic cup success with an almost flawless league run-in. It’s a classic battle of momentum versus experience.

The tactical clash will likely be decided by whether Bournemouth‘s disciplined defensive structure can withstand City‘s overwhelming attacking firepower. As the highest-scoring team in the Premier League, City will look to dominate possession and exploit any available space. Bournemouth, who have been formidable at home, will aim to stay compact and hit the visitors on the counter. The game will be won or lost in the midfield, where control of the tempo is paramount.

The motivations for both clubs are crystal clear. Manchester City must win to keep pace with Arsenal at the top of the table; a draw is not an option. For Bournemouth, a single point guarantees a top-eight finish, but a victory would keep their slim hopes of European football alive. With neither side able to settle for a stalemate, expect an open and aggressive contest from the first whistle.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this has been a one-sided fixture. Manchester City has dominated the head-to-head record, winning four of the last five meetings between the clubs. Bournemouth has only managed a single victory against the Citizens during that same period, underscoring the challenge that lies ahead for the home side.

Looking at the most recent encounters, City is currently on a three-match winning streak against the Cherries. The last two games, both played at the Etihad Stadium, ended in identical 3-1 victories for Manchester City. Earlier this season, City also secured a 3-1 win in the reverse fixture, with Erling Haaland scoring a brace.

A key trend for this matchup has been the frequency of goals. The last four consecutive games between these two teams have seen both sides find the back of the net. Over their previous five meetings, matches have averaged 3.0 total goals, and Manchester City is the only team to have kept a clean sheet in that span.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Manchester City arrives with a fully fit squad, while Bournemouth must contend with several key absences for this crucial match.

The hosts will be significantly hampered by the unavailability of key players. Midfielder Ryan Christie is out due to suspension, while Lewis Cook is sidelined with a hamstring injury. The Cherries will also be without Julio Soler and Matai Akinmboni, forcing manager Andoni Iraola to adjust his game plan.

In stark contrast, Pep Guardiola has his entire roster available for selection. This is a massive advantage at such a critical stage of the season, providing him with tactical flexibility and the ability to field his strongest possible lineup or rotate players to maintain freshness after a demanding FA Cup final.

Bournemouth Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Petrovic; Smith, Hill, Senesi, Truffert; Adams, Scott; Rayan, Kroupi, Tavernier; Evanilson

Forced to adapt due to injuries and suspension, Bournemouth will likely rely on a disciplined 4-2-3-1 formation. The defensive pairing of Hill and Senesi will be crucial in containing City‘s attack, while the creativity of Tavernier and the finishing of Evanilson will be their best hope of finding a goal.

Manchester City Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly; Gonzalez, Silva; Semenyo, Cherki, Doku; Haaland

With a full squad to choose from, Guardiola can deploy a formidable attacking lineup. Erling Haaland, who boasts 15 goal involvements on the road this season, will lead the line. He’ll be supported by a dynamic trio of attackers, ensuring City has multiple avenues to break down the resilient Bournemouth defense.

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“It’s hard not to get emotional. With everything we’ve been through. Everything they watched me go through. And me getting here, managing to compete in another World Cup. It’s Incredible. These are tears of pure happiness. Truly I want to tank every single Brazilian who supported me and cheered for me… we have another World Cup to fight for. We will absolutely give our lives to bring the Cup back to Brazil” Neymar said, on his Youtube channel.

While there were serious doubts surrounding his physical condition,Carlo Ancelotti has rewarded Neymar for his major improvement at Santos FC, revealing that he will be important. With this call-up, the 34-year-old star now has what could be his final opportunity to chase the long-awaited World Cup title. However, he will not have an easy path toward becoming a starter, as Matheus Cunha and Lucas Paquetá currently appear to hold a certain advantage.

Neymar is set to make his return with Brazil after three years away from the national team, giving him a clear opportunity to end his long scoring drought with the Canarinha. In addition, the 34-year-old star emerges as a key figure for Carlo Ancelotti after the injuries to Rodrygo and Estêvão, as his experience could prove decisive. Beyond his impact on the field, they also regain a clear dressing-room leader, something that can be crucial when competing at the highest level.

Neymar Jr. to play inside forward for Brazil, says Carlo Ancelotti

Heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil appear to have a clear plan built around Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior on the wings. In addition, the regular presence of Matheus Cunha as the starting attacking midfielder offers strong indications of how the lineup could look. Because of this, Neymar’s role remains a major topic of debate, leading Carlo Ancelotti to reveal that the 34-year-old star will play as an inside forward.

After his numerous injuries at Al Hilal SFC, Neymar has evolved into an attacking midfielder. No longer standing out because of his pace, the Brazilian star now makes the difference through his dribbling, vision, and ability to break defensive lines with precise through balls. Because of this, Carlo Ancelotti will use him as a major enhancer of Brazil’s collective play, something that neither Matheus Cunha nor Lucas Paquetá have consistently managed to provide for the national team.

The Saudi powerhouse took a massive emotional hit on Saturday, crashing out of the AFC Champions League Two final with a 1-0 loss to Gamba Osaka. While dreams of a historic double have faded, the squad has no time to lick its wounds with another trophy on the line in less than a week, and Ronaldo is already seeing reinforcements return to the pitch.

According to Saudi outlet Al Arriyadiyah, Coman has shown complete readiness to rejoin the starting XI for the match against Damac FC. Al Nassr returned to the training grounds on Monday following a scheduled rest day on Sunday, and the Frenchman reportedly participated fully without showing any signs of lingering physical discomfort.

Despite being one of the team’s most lethal weapons, Coman began the final against Gamba Osaka on the bench due to a recent muscle strain, a pre-match gamble manager Jorge Jesus later addressed. “Our team is physically exhausted, and we took a gamble by playing Coman and Angelo,” the Portuguese tactician admitted during his post-match press conference.

The French winger eventually entered the match in the 66th minute but struggled to alter the momentum with Al Nassr already chasing the game. However, with Al Arriyadiyah reporting a full recovery, Ronaldo will have his primary playmaker back in the fold, a crucial connection, considering five of the 12 assists Coman has delivered in his debut Al Nassr campaign have directly set up the Portuguese legend.

Brozovic remains the biggest question mark for Al Nassr

With Coman cleared, Al Nassr are expected to deploy a terrifying, star-studded attack featuring the Frenchman and Sadio Mane on the flanks, Joao Felix operating as a false nine, and Ronaldo spearheading the frontline. However, that immense firepower could face transitional issues in the buildup and defensive phases, as midfield anchor Marcelo Brozovic remains a major doubt.

The same report from Al Arriyadiyah all but ruled out a quick return for the Croatian international. The veteran midfielder, who was sorely missed during the continental final against Gamba Osaka, spent Monday continuing his rehabilitation and treatment sessions inside the medical clinic at the “Dar Al-Nassr” training center.

On paper, Al Nassr enter the match as heavy favorites against a 15th-place Damac side sitting on just 29 points. But with the visitors needing a single point to mathematically guarantee safety from relegation, and boasting a direct style that ranks third in the SPL in long balls per game (21.1), playing without Brozovic to shield the backline could cost Ronaldo’s side dearly.

Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, when the Herons will be hosting Philadelphia Union in the MLS at the Nu Stadium. The Argentine legend enters the fixture after participating in the two goals of the 2-0 win over the Portland Timbers with a goal and an assist.

As for international duty with Argentina national team, Lionel Messi is set to return to action during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Albiceleste will be facing Honduras on June 6th, and Iceland on June 9, leaving Messi and company just one week to regroup before their tournament opener against Algeria on the 16th.

The 2026 MLS campaign has begun for Messi, who has featured in 15 official matches so far across all competitions, scoring 13 goals with 5 assist registered thus far. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title

The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time.

Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas.

The Argentina FA has announced that the national team will base itself in Kansas City during the tournament, though training facilities have yet to be confirmed. Expected to be his final World Cup appearance, Messi will have a chance to add to his record haul with a squad coached by Lionel Scaloni that remains one of the strongest in international soccer after winning the last World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles.

Ancelotti made the official announcement on Monday at the Museu do Amanhã in Rio de Janeiro in a candid press conference. While Neymar’s inclusion in the squad dominated the headlines, the exclusion of Joao Pedro quickly emerged as one of the most discussed decisions of the afternoon.

Hours later, the Chelsea striker took to Instagram with a measured response. “I tried to give my best at all times. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible to fulfill this dream of representing my country in a World Cup, but I remain calm and focused, as I always try to be. Joys and frustrations are part of football. From now on, I wish good luck to everyone who is there and I will be just another fan cheering for them to bring the sixth title home,” he wrote.

Joao Pedro had made a compelling case for inclusion. He was instrumental in Chelsea’s run to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup title, scoring twice in the semifinal and once in the final, and posted 20 goals and nine assists across 49 appearances in his debut season at Stamford Bridge. He also featured in three of Ancelotti’s five Brazil squads this past year, but none of it proved enough to earn a spot on the plane to North America.

Did Neymar take Joao Pedro’s place?

From the 55-man preliminary list, Neymar’s inclusion had already generated significant debate, particularly after Estevao and Rodrygo were ruled out through injury. Cuts were always going to fall across every line of the squad, and while Thiago Silva and Andrey Santos were the names dropped from the defensive and midfield pools, it was Joao Pedro who was sacrificed from the forward positions.

Ancelotti was asked directly about the decision to leave him out and stood firmly behind his choice. “I understand that they say that European football is different, more intense, but you have to consider a lot of things. To play here (in Brazil) is very difficult; you have a tight schedule, trips, the heat… Obviously, I am sad for Joao Pedro, who for the season he made in Europe probably deserved to be in this list, but sadly, with all the consciousness, respect, and competence, we chose other players,” the Italian coach said.

The final forward group named by Ancelotti consists of Endrick, Vinícius Júnior, Matheus Cunha, Neymar Junior, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, Rayan, Igor Thiago and Luiz Henrique. Of those, the players most suited to a central striking role comparable to Joao Pedro’s profile are Igor Thiago, the second-highest scorer in the Premier League this season, Matheus Cunha, Endrick and Neymar, a group Ancelotti was willing to back over the Chelsea forward.

The irony is not lost given that Joao Pedro himself had publicly stated to TNT Sports Brasil that Neymar deserved to be at the World Cup and that the Santos star “represents what Messi is to Argentina” for Brazil. In the end, however, Neymar’s inclusion may well have come at the direct expense of his most vocal supporter.

On Sunday, the Saudi Pro League published its 2025-26 Season Awards nominees on its official website, with Ronaldo once again among those in the running for the top individual prize of the campaign.

Alongside the Player of the Season, the other categories up for grabs include Saudi Player of the Season, Manager of the Season and Best Young Talent of the Season. Voting opened on Sunday, with the winners set to be revealed once the league season concludes.

As with the previous edition, the voting breakdown has already been established. The head coaches and captains of all 18 SPL clubs will each account for 40 percent of the overall vote, the Kingdom’s leading sports journalists will contribute 15 percent, and fans of the league will make up the remaining 5 percent.

Ronaldo will have the chance to potentially clinch the SPL title when Al Nassr host Damac FC on Thursday, May 21, in what could be the day he ends the club’s long trophy drought. The following day, Friday, May 22, following the conclusion of the final matchweek, the award winners will be officially announced.

Cristiano Ronaldo and the competition for SPL Player of the Season

Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has consistently been one of the most impactful players in the league, and this season has been no different, with his performances at the heart of Al Nassr’s push for the title. On an individual level, the 41-year-old has posted 26 goals and three assists across 29 games, placing him among the leaders in direct goal contributions.

The competition, however, is fierce. Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney currently leads the SPL scoring charts with 32 goals and six assists in 31 games, while Mexican international Julian Quiñones has registered 30 goals and four assists in 30 appearances for Al Qadsiah. Joao Felix, Ronaldo’s Al Nassr teammate, rounds out the standout candidates with 20 goals and 13 assists across 32 games, a combination of goalscoring and creativity that makes him a compelling contender.

One potential advantage for the Al Nassr duo is the trend established by recent award winners. Karim Benzema claimed the Player of the Season in 2024-25 and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in 2023-24, with both Al Ittihad and Al Hilal producing those winners respectively. The pattern suggests that team success carries significant weight with voters, which could tip the balance in favor of players from a title-winning side.

SPL Awards: categories and nominees

Player of the Season

• Ivan Toney (Al Ahli)
• Julian Quiñones (Al Qadsiah)
• Ruben Neves (Al Hilal)
• Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
• Joao Felix (Al Nassr)

Best Young Talent of the Season

• Hammam Al Hammami (Al Shabab)
• Abdulaziz Al Elewa (Al Kholood)
• Abdulaziz Al Suwailem (Al Fateh)
• Sabri Dahal (Al Fayha)
• Sultan Harun (Al Riyadh)

Manager of the Season

• Jorge Jesus (Al Nassr)
• Matthias Jaissle (Al Ahli)
• Brendan Rodgers (Al Qadsiah)
• Simone Inzaghi (Al Hilal)
• Saad Al Shehri (Al Ettifaq)

Saudi Player of the Season

• Salem Al Dawsari (Al Hilal)
• Khalid Al Ghannam (Al Ettifaq)
• Musab Al Juwayr (Al Qadsiah)
• Abdulelah Al Amri (Al Nassr)
• Hattan Bahebri (Al Kholood)

As reported by Fabrizio Romano and Ben Jacobs, Pep Guardiola is expected to leave Manchester City in the summer of 2026. An official announcement is yet to be made by the club as City are still in the Premier League title race, but as reported by the journalists, Guardiola will be bidding farewell in the coming days.

Questions over his continuity arose especially taking into account that Guardiola’s current deal runs until June 2027. In fact, the former FC Barcelona manager previously dismissed the possibility of leaving the Mancunian side, with this remaining year seen as the main factor of his continuity.

Before lifting the FA Cup against Chelsea on Saturday, Guardiola was asked if he was going to leave during his press conference: “No way. No way. I have a one year (left on my) contract,” he stated, before addressing how Wembley Stadium has turned into one of his favorite stages.

“I’m so disappointed that they don’t make a stand for Pep (at Wembley), the number of times I’ve been there – at least a lounge or a box. Maybe I go 24 more times. It’s been a special place, with Barcelona in 1992, and after against Manchester United with Barcelona for the second time and many times since I am here with semi-finals and finals. It’s really good to go to Wembley again. Top,” he stated last Saturday.

However, reports are now claiming that Guardiola is set to put an end to the tenure he began back on July 1, 2016, ten years later. Through that span, he claimed multiple records and conquered six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, 5 EFL Cups, three FA Community Shields, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, and one FIFA Club World Cup to make a total of 20 titles with the Citizens.

Who will replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City?

With the status as the best coach in Manchester City history, and one of the best of all time, replacing Pep Guardiola won’t be an easy task for any of the candidates put to embrace the challenge. However, the board is trusting in one of his latest disciples and a familiar face to take his seat.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Enzo Maresca is positioned as the only replacement for Pep Guardiola. After his sacking from Chelsea in January, the club has reportedly been working on securing his future to be part of the club, with Maresca reportedly accepting the project months ago even before the Guardiola decision was reported.

Maresca is deeply rooted in the City soccer structure, having first arrived in 2020 to lead the U-23 squad to a Premier League 2 title. After a brief stint managing Parma, he returned to the Etihad in 2022 as Guardiola’s lead assistant, replacing Juanma Lillo. A year later, he took the reins at Leicester City and engineered their promotion back to the top flight, earning a move to Chelsea, where he coached the Blues to a revamped FIFA Club World Cup title in 2025.

Former City captain and club legend Vincent Kompany was briefly floated as a potential candidate, but the Belgian’s recent contract extension with Bayern Munich through June 2029 quickly removed him from the running. With the field cleared, Maresca is now poised for his third stint in Manchester, this time taking the ultimate seat as head coach of the first team.

During the post-announcement press conference, Ancelotti opened up about his decision to call up the veteran playmaker: “We evaluated Neymar throughout the year, and we saw that in the recent period he played with continuity, and that his physical condition improved. We believe that he is an important player; he is going to be an important player in this World Cup. He has the same role and obligation as all the other 25—the possibility of playing, of not playing, of being on the bench, of coming on—the exact same responsibility as the others.“

Questions also arose regarding the various factors that influenced the final selection. Beyond his current on-field form, an immense wave of pressure from both fans and teammates had kept the forward’s status at the center of a non-stop national debate for months.

Setting aside the tactical element, Ancelotti highlighted that the evaluation process was strictly focused on the medical data. “The evaluation throughout the year has been solely regarding the physical aspect. For Neymar, it has always been a physical issue. In the recent matches, he played with continuity.”

“He may have the opportunity to improve his physical condition during this period before the first game of the World Cup, but we believe that apart from this, his experience in this type of competition, the affection he has within the group, and also how he can create a better environment within the squad will help the team bring out its best,” he stated.

When pressed on exactly how many minutes Neymar would log during the tournament, Ancelotti struck a more cautious tone. “He’ll play if he deserves to play. I have an idea on how the starting team could look today, but I have to analyze how the players train and check on their physical and mental condition before naming them to the starting XI.“

Where will Neymar play in Ancelotti’s Brazil?

Neymar is set to suit up for Ancelotti’s Brazil for the first time, but the looming question centers on where exactly he will fit on the pitch. During his prime years with Barcelona and PSG, the forward was a devastating threat down the left wing, but injuries and age mean that explosive, touchline-to-touchline speed is no longer his defining trait.

Asked about his tactical plans, Ancelotti confirmed that he views Neymar “as a forward in a centralized position,” meaning he will likely slot in behind a traditional striker as an advanced playmaker, or potentially operate as a false nine despite lacking the physical profile of a standard target man.

During his current stint with Santos, Neymar has occasionally been penciled into the lineup as a number nine but rarely stays anchored to the penalty box. With the Peixe, his heat map shows heavy traffic cutting inside from the left into central pockets, a blueprint that allows Neymar to dictate the tempo and break down compact defenses rather than relying on pure counter-attacking pace.

Monday’s press conference was held to formally confirm the squad for both the upcoming friendly schedule and the World Cup itself. Neymar’s inclusion had been one of the most debated topics in Brazilian soccer for months, and when Ancelotti reached the forwards on his list, the announcement was met with significant attention both at home and abroad.

Barring any last-minute injury, this is the group that will represent Brazil in North America. The Selecao open their pre-tournament schedule with friendlies against Panama on May 31 and Egypt on June 6 before the World Cup gets underway across Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Throughout the selection process, Ancelotti had been consistent in stating that physical fitness would be the determining factor in any decision regarding Neymar, emphasizing trust in the forward’s talent while stressing the need for him to be ready for the demands of a World Cup. A run of decent form in recent weeks, combined with season-ending injuries to Rodrygo and Estevao, ultimately opened the door for Neymar to be included for a fourth World Cup, following his participation in 2014, 2018 and 2022.

Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil came in October 2023, when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament against Uruguay, and persistent fitness issues have kept him away from the national team ever since. Nearly a year into his tenure, Ancelotti will now have the opportunity to work with Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, a player who surpassed the records of legends such as Pele, Ronaldo Nazario and Romario.

Brazil’s complete 2026 World Cup squad

• Goalkeepers: Alisson Becker (Liverpool), Ederson Moraes (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Gremio).
• Defenders: Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus) Danilo Luiz (Flamengo), Douglas Santos (Zenit) Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Roger Ibañez (Al Ahli) Leo Pereira (Flamengo), Marquinhos (PSG), Wesley (AS Roma).
• Midfielders: Casemiro (Manchester United), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United), Fabinho (Al Ittihad), Danilo (Botafogo), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo).
• Forwards: Endrick (O. Lyon), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Neymar Junior (Santos), Raphinha (FC Barcelona), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Rayan (AFC Bournemouth), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Luiz Henrique (Zenit).

Neymar and his dream of a 2026 World Cup farewell

The decision to return to Santos in 2025 was always about one thing: getting fit and finding form in time to make a final push for a place in the World Cup squad. With only an Olympic gold medal from 2016 to show for his international career in terms of major honors, Neymar arrives at this tournament with an urgent motivation to finally win a World Cup with the Selecao.

Asked recently about the tournament and the possibility of a final showdown with Lionel Messi, Neymar allowed himself to dream. “Of course (I think about the World Cup). Every Brazilian player thinks about that. I hope I can be there. Also, a final between Brazil and Argentina would be spectacular,” he said in the mixed zone after Santos’ Copa Sudamericana match against San Lorenzo in Argentina.

As the cornerstone of Brazil for many years, Neymar used to be the undisputed leader of the dressing room. However, he played his last match for the Canarinha on October 18, 2023, during the 2-0 defeat against Uruguay, meaning 943 days will have passed since that appearance. The 34-year-old star could now make his long-awaited return on May 31, 2026 against Panama in the friendly clash before the 2026 World Cup.

In his return with national team, the 34-year-old star could end a 982-day drought since his last goal for Brazil, with his brace against Bolivia on September 9 of 2023. However, Neymar Jr. is no longer the explosive winger who constantly dominated defenders in isolation, but rather a brilliant attacking midfielder. Because of this, he could return by contributing more as a creator and playmaker.

Neymar Jr. may have a secondary role with Brazil at the 2026 World Cup

Along his process with Brazil, Carlo Ancelotti has decided to rely on Matheus Cunha as his starting attacking midfielder. Shining at Manchester United, he offers major changes of pace while also contributing heavily in the scoring phase. In addition, Lucas Paquetá remains a regular presence with the national team, standing out because of his dribbling and creative ability. With this in mind, Neymar appears set to hold a secondary role during the 2026 World Cup.

Despite his potential secondary role, Neymar could still offer an ideal alternative for Carlo Ancelotti. Neither Matheus Cunha nor Lucas Paquetá have consistently managed to provide a major creative boost for Brazil, something the 34-year-old star is still capable of delivering. Thanks to his elite vision and technical quality, he could elevate the scoring output of Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha by entering as an impact substitute.

Neymar’s comeback closes the door on the 2026 World Cup for Joao Pedro

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Carlo Ancelotti has decided to rely on Igor Thiago and Endrick as his primary striker options for Brazil. While neither player had been a regular starter in recent matches, both impressed in the Premier League and Ligue 1, earning their places in the squad. While João Pedro has been shining at Chelsea FC, the return of Neymar reportedly cost him his place in the national team, as he failed to fully impress during the friendlies games.

In the match against Real Betis on Sunday, Lewandowski was substituted in the 85th minute to a standing ovation from the Camp Nou crowd, and after the final whistle he took to the center of the pitch alongside his family to say his farewells. “Thank you very much for coming today; for me, this is an emotional and difficult day, but when I arrived, I knew this was a massive club, and with your affection, it has been incredible,” he began.

“From day one, I felt at home. I will never forget when you chant my name. Thank you to the players, the coaches, and the staff; it has been an honor to work for this club. We have experienced great moments over these four years, and I feel proud of everything we have done together. I say goodbye at the stadium, but I will always carry Barca in my heart. Thank you to you, the fans. Once a Culer, always a Culer. Visca el Barca and visca Catalunya,” he concluded, visibly moved by the occasion.

Across his four seasons at Barcelona, Lewandowski has accumulated 119 goals in 192 appearances, posting an impressive scoring rate of 0.62 goals per game despite arriving at the club at the age of 33. With Barcelona having already secured the La Liga title, there is one game remaining against Valencia on Saturday, May 23, giving the striker a final opportunity to add to his legacy.

According to Transfermarkt, Lewandowski currently sits 11th on the all-time Barcelona scoring charts, one goal behind Josep Escola, who played for the club in the 1930s and 1940s and recorded 120 goals in 191 appearances. A single goal against Valencia would draw him level with Escola and move him into the top 10; two would give him sole possession of that spot.

The comparison with his time at Bayern Munich is instructive. Lewandowski stands as the Bavarians’ second all-time top scorer with 344 goals, trailing only the legendary Gerd Müller at 570. The key distinction is that he spent eight years at Bayern in the prime of his career, while arriving at Barcelona already as a veteran, making his four-year impact at the Catalan club all the more remarkable.

Lewandowski still far from the top foreign scorers and Messi

In just four seasons, Lewandowski won over the Barcelona fanbase during a period marked by financial uncertainty and institutional upheaval at the club. Yet when it comes to pure output, he falls short not only of Lionel Messi but also of several foreign legends who left their mark at the Blaugrana.

Messi stands alone at the top of the all-time scoring charts with 672 goals in 778 games, an extraordinary average of 0.86 goals per game, equating to a goal roughly every 95 minutes. Lewandowski’s rate of one goal every 118 minutes, while impressive for a player of his age, highlights the considerable gap between the two.

Among Barcelona’s foreign-born scorers specifically, Lewandowski currently sits seventh, trailing Luis Suarez with 195 goals, Laszlo Kubala with 193, Samuel Eto’o and Rivaldo with 130 each, and Patrick Kluivert with 122. Notably, however, Lewandowski has achieved his tally in fewer appearances than any other player on that list, making his four-year contribution one of the most efficient in the club’s modern era.