Match Overview

Fresh off a statement run in the UEFA Champions League, Atletico Madrid head into the Copa del Rey final riding serious momentum after knocking out Barcelona in a grueling semifinal showdown, giving Diego Simeone’s squad a clear edge in confidence and form.

However, Real Sociedad, despite a stretch of uneven results, view this matchup as their golden chance to lift silverware and flip the script, setting the stage for a high-pressure battle between two determined sides—make sure you don’t miss a minute of what promises to be a thrilling final.

For both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, the stakes stretch beyond silverware, with pride and legacy now tightly intertwined. The conversation around the title has intensified in recent days, with a particular admission surfacing from within Benzema’s camp.

Al-Nassr currently sits at the summit with 76 points from 29 matches, holding what appears to be a commanding advantage. Its record of 25 wins, one draw, and just three defeats highlights a campaign built on consistency and attacking firepower.

Ronaldo remains central to that success, contributing heavily with goals and leadership even deep into his career. The team’s 79 goals scored underline a ruthless edge, one that has often turned tight contests into decisive victories.

Meanwhile, Al-Hilal continues to apply pressure in a very different way. The Blue Waves remain unbeaten after 28 matches, with 20 wins and eight draws, showcasing resilience rather than dominance.

What did Pablo Mari say?

On paper, the gap between the two sides stands at eight points, but the reality is more nuanced. Al-Hilal has a game in hand, meaning the difference could shrink to just five points, keeping the title race alive heading into the final stretch.

It is in this context that Pablo Mari’s comments begin to resonate more deeply. The Al-Hilal defender offered a candid perspective on both the rivalry and the figure at its center. “We will fight to win the league,” he stated in a recent interview shared on social media; a clear message that Al-Hilal has not conceded anything yet.

His words reflect a squad still convinced that the gap can be closed. But perhaps more striking was his admiration for the opponent. “I would love to play with Cristiano Ronaldo,” he admitted, highlighting the respect the forward commands even from direct rivals.

Respect for elite players often crosses rivalry lines, and the Spaniard’s words reflected that reality. In a season filled with tension, it was a reminder of Ronaldo’s standing across world soccer.

Pressure builds as the finish line nears

As the season moves into its decisive phase, both sides understand the margins are shrinking. Al-Nassr needs to maintain its relentless pace, knowing a single slip could reopen the race.

For Al-Hilal, the equation is equally clear. Turning draws into victories is essential, especially with the opportunity to reduce the gap still within reach. The psychological aspect is beginning to matter just as much as the tactical one.

The stage is set at Zabeel Stadium, where a one-leg quarter-final will decide who advances to the semi-finals. For Al-Nassr, the match represents another step toward a long-awaited continental title, one that has so far eluded the club. It topped its group with a perfect 18 points and navigated the round of 16 with back-to-back 1-0 wins, showing both consistency and control.

What’s more, the Riyadh outfit enters the match in formidable form. A remarkable winning streak, stretching beyond 17 matches across competitions, has turned Jorge Jesus’ side into one of Asia’s most feared sides.

A star-studded attack has been the driving force behind that run. Between Ronaldo, Felix, Sadio Mane, and others, the team has produced a staggering number of goal contributions, underlining their depth and firepower.

Al-Wasl, meanwhile, arrives with a different kind of urgency. With domestic hopes fading, this competition stands as its final opportunity for silverware, adding extra intensity to the encounter.

The reason why Joao Felix missed training

Joao Felix has been one of Al-Nassr’s most productive players this season. Since arriving permanently in 2025, the forward has delivered 21 goals and 14 assists in 37 appearances across competitions, making him a crucial figure in the attack.

His versatility, movement, and technical quality have helped complement Cristiano Ronaldo and the wider frontline. That is why his missing group session created immediate concern around availability and readiness.

Reports from Al Youm and Arriyadiyah later clarified the situation. The technical staff preferred to rest him due to fatigue, rather than any serious injury issue. “Joao Felix skipped group training… and instead completed individual gym exercises,” the reports stated.

The decision was precautionary, aimed at ensuring he remains available for selection rather than risking a setback. The Portuguese winger still trained individually, signaling that his involvement in the match remains possible.

Jorge Jesus faces a key decision: Will Joao Felix play?

The biggest question now is whether Felix starts, appears from the bench, or is protected further. It appears that Jorge Jesus will make the final decision in a pre-match meeting, balancing immediate need with player condition.

If Felix is unavailable from the opening whistle, alternatives such as Sadio Mane or Kingsley Coman can shoulder more responsibility. Few teams in Asia can match Al-Nassr’s attacking depth. Another option is that Jorge Jesus could be forced to change formations with Ronaldo and another centre-forward ahead.

According to Paolo Bargiggia, via AreaNapoli, the future of Antonio Conte at SSC Napoli is not entirely secure, as president Aurelio De Laurentiis is not fully convinced by his performance this season. As a result, he is reportedly open to facilitating the coach’s departure to the Italy national team, as it would represent an ideal solution by avoiding the need to pay a costly dismissal.

Following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) is planning a significant overhaul of their project. In the search for a leader, Conte has emerged as a strong option, having previously managed the Azzurri and possessing extensive knowledge of Serie A. Additionally, Napoli would reportedly be willing to ease his exit—something that would not be the case with Massimiliano Allegri, who remains a key figure at AC Milan.

While Napoli have remained one of the top teams in Serie A, they have failed to get involved in the race for the league title. Trailing AC Milan by 12 points, they have yet to find their best form, highlighting the decline of Antonio Conte and his project. Furthermore, the Italian side is coming off a tough loss to Lazio, which exposed the team’s major problems and leaves Conte on the brink of leaving at the end of the season—either to another Italian club or out of a job.

Conte may be an immediate solution, but not an ideal one for Italy

After missing three consecutive World Cup editions, the Italy do not need continuity—they need a full reset. This means committing to younger players and driving a necessary generational overhaul to rebuild the national team. With that in mind, Antonio Conte may not be the ideal fit, as he represents more of a short-term solution for a project that requires a long-term vision and sustainable development.

Antonio Conte is one of Italy’s most successful coaches and a global figure in the sport. However, he is not typically known for investing in young players or long-term projects, having had short tenures at every team he has managed. As a result, players like Francesco Camarda, Pietro Comuzzo, Michael Kyode, Samuele Inacio, and others could be left out, cutting short their development, as he tends to rely on veteran, proven players.

In pursuit of a full rebuild, FIGC may need a more attack-minded coach who is willing to trust young players, making Pep Guardiola one of the most ideal candidates. Turning again to profiles like Roberto Mancini, Massimiliano Allegri, or Antonio Conte would mean continuing a sporting project that has not delivered results and clearly requires renewal—potentially representing a step backward rather than forward.

After a foul on Yannick Bright, the Herons strongly appealed for a penalty, prompting the referee to consult VAR. Following the review, the foul was awarded inside the box, with Joshua Atencio shown a yellow card. Taking responsibility from the spot, Messi struck a well-placed shot to score the opening goal and give his side the early advantage, beating Colorado Rapids‘ Zack Steffen.

Despite trailing, Colorado Rapids have shown an impressive attacking presence, emerging as the more proactive side in possession and consistently posing a forward threat. They have applied a high press and demonstrated a well-developed connection. As a result, Inter Miami continue to struggle against an opponent that appears capable of finding an equalizer and exposing the team’s ongoing issues.

After conceding two goals to the Colorado Rapids in the second half, the Herons managed to turn the game around, thanks once again to Lionel Messi. Following a pass from Rodrigo De Paul from midfield, the veteran received the ball on the right wing, dribbled past three defenders, and fired a powerful shot past Zack Steffen once again.

Germán Berterame struggles to adapt with Messi at Inter Miami

At the start of 2026, Inter Miami CF pursued the signing of Germán Berterame, aiming for him to replace Luis Suárez in the short term. After paying €12.6M to CF Monterrey from Liga MX, the Mexican forward arrived in MLS with high expectations. While he managed to score an important header against Colorado Rapids, he has yet to fully adapt to playing alongside Lionel Messi, exposing a clear lack of understanding on the pitch.

Alongside Luis Suárez, Mateo Silvetti, and Tadeo Allende, Lionel Messi has developed strong on-field chemistry, showing fluidity and consistently creating space for one another. However, Germán Berterame has managed just two goals and one assist in 10 matches for Inter Miami CF, lacking a clear connection with the Argentine. As a result, he has struggled to find space and contribute to the team’s collective play.

Far from there being any issue between them, Lionel Messi has shown himself to be highly supportive of Germán Berterame, meaning their on-field connection could improve over time. After investing a significant fee in the Mexican, head coach Guillermo Hoyos now faces the key task of developing that chemistry and establishing them as the new attacking partnership, as Luis Suárez under contract only until December 2026 and expected to move on.

The Argentine coach’s resignation came shortly after a turbulent period for the club, which included inconsistent results and growing pressure on the squad. While early reports pointed to “personal reasons,” the timing and context have led to deeper scrutiny of what actually unfolded inside the dressing room.

The Herons confirmed Javier Mascherano’s resignation through an official statement, where he said: “I want to let everyone know that, for personal reasons, I have decided to end my tenure as head coach of Inter Miami CF.” He also added, “I will always carry with me the memory of our first star.”

The coach left with an impressive 1.93 points-per-game average, the highest in club history, and just months after leading the club to its first MLS Cup title. Despite that success, the team’s recent form, including elimination from the Concacaf Champions Cup, created a more unstable atmosphere.

The real reason behind the exit amid tensions talk

While official messaging pointed to a clean departure, reports later suggested a more complex situation. A locker room argument after the 2-2 draw against the New York Red Bulls is believed to have been the final trigger behind Mascherano’s exit, according to sources briefed on the situation.

The Athletic earlier reported that tensions had been building for weeks, particularly after the club’s Concacaf Champions Cup elimination. The frustration reportedly grew internally, creating an increasingly difficult environment.

However, despite speculation, a Daily Mail insider dismissed the idea of a Messi-related fallout. “When they come, it’s ‘because he is Messi’s friend’. When they leave, it’s ‘because he is not Messi’s friend’,” the source said, pushing back on the narrative.

The Messi and Mascherano dynamic

Messi and Mascherano share a long history together, having played for both Argentina and Barcelona. That relationship carried into Miami, where both were seen as central figures in the club’s identity and leadership structure.

Mascherano publicly described his exit as personal, but the lack of detail quickly sparked speculation. The same phrasing had been used in previous managerial changes at the club, which only added to doubts about the official explanation.

The Daily Mail added that Mascherano had privately felt that his cycle at the club had naturally reached its end after winning major silverware, rather than being forced out abruptly. This version of events suggests a gradual decision rather than a sudden fallout.

Its attacking unit, once considered a strength, has instead become a growing concern. With key figures, including Pulisic and Rafael Leao, struggling simultaneously, the sense around the Rossoneri is that something deeper than simple poor form is affecting performances. The numbers paint a troubling picture for Milan’s frontline in 2026. 

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the team’s attackers have managed just eight goals since the turn of the year despite producing 93 total shots and 34 on target. This decline has had a direct impact on results, as goals have become increasingly difficult to come by. Compared to rivals like Inter, which requires far fewer chances to score, Massimiliano Allegri’s players’ struggles stand out even more.

Much of the focus has naturally fallen on Pulisic, whose season has followed a dramatic split. After recording eight goals and two assists in the first half of the campaign, he has failed to score in 2026, adding just one assist to his tally.

His last goal came in late December, coincidentally against Verona, a moment that now feels distant. Since then, injuries and inconsistency have disrupted his rhythm, leaving the forward searching for answers in front of the goal.

Pulisic’s status for the crucial Verona test emerges

Despite the concerns, multiple outlets such as Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Pulisic is still expected to start against Verona, a decision that underlines the trust placed in him by Massimiliano Allegri. The coach appears willing to rely on his experienced attackers rather than turn to alternatives during this difficult phase.

The American winger has previously delivered strong performances at the Bentegodi, including a goal in a 3-1 win during the 2023-24 season. That history is seen as a potential spark for a player searching for rhythm.

Tactical reset offers a familiar solution

Massimiliano Allegri has repeatedly altered Milan’s attacking structure in search of a solution. Experiments with different forward combinations, including a front three, have failed to deliver stability or goals.

After the disappointing system change against Udinese, Allegri is expected to revert to a 3-5-2 formation with Pulisic and Leao leading the line together. The coach believes familiarity between the two attackers could restore some balance in the final third.

Despite recent struggles, Allegri is still backing both players to start against Verona, hoping the matchup can trigger a turnaround in form. The partnership between Pulisic and Leao has produced mixed outcomes this season. When the two started together, the Rossoneri scored just eight goals, averaging less than one per game.

Confidence also appears to be a factor, with both players struggling mentally as well as physically. The pressure of expectation, combined with recent poor results, has created a tense atmosphere within the squad.

The Saudi Pro League’s transformation has placed clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal at the heart of Asia’s soccer hierarchy. With global names such as Ronaldo and Benzema leading the charge, expectations have risen sharply both domestically and internationally.

Yet continental qualification remains unforgiving, and even the strongest squads are not guaranteed a place in the top-tier AFC competition without consistent league results.

Al-Nassr last featured in the inaugural AFC Champions League Elite during the 2024-25 campaign. However, its domestic finish told a different story the following year. A third-place finish in the league pushed Ronaldo’s side into the AFC Champions League Two, a secondary competition that reflects how unforgiving qualification rules have become.

This shift was not about a lack of quality. Instead, it highlighted the growing competitiveness within Saudi soccer, where even star-studded squads must deliver consistently to remain at the highest level. Still, its campaign in the AFC Champions League Two has been strong, with the club progressing into the knockout rounds and positioning itself as one of the favorites for the title.

Al-Hilal’s high-stakes continental battle ended early

While Al-Nassr’s situation reflects qualification margins, Al-Hilal’s journey shows the competitive intensity at the top level. The club recently endured a dramatic Round of 16 clash against Al-Sadd in the AFC Champions League Elite, producing a match filled with goals, momentum swings, and a penalty shootout finish.

Despite strong performances from players such as Karim Benzema’s attacking contributions and the squad’s overall depth, the Blue Waves were pushed to the limit before eventually falling in a chaotic shootout decided by fine margins.

What comes next for Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal

Recent developments confirm that both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal have now secured qualification for the next AFC Champions League Elite season based on their current Saudi Pro League standings. According to Sportksanet’s report, “Al-Nassr currently leads the table with a clear margin over Al-Hilal in second, with both sides mathematically out of reach of the chasing pack.”

This guarantees their return to Asia’s top-tier competition, reinforcing the league’s rising dominance in continental soccer. Looking ahead, the return to the Asian top competition represents more than qualification. It is a statement of intent from both clubs as they aim to dominate not only domestically but across the continent.

For Al-Nassr, it offers a chance to re-establish itself among the best after a brief setback. For Al-Hilal, it provides another opportunity to convert strong performances into silverware.

The Argentine talent had long admired Ronaldo, having spent time around him earlier in his career at Manchester United. That made the possibility of joining Al-Nassr especially significant, as it would have placed him alongside one of soccer’s greatest figures at a crucial stage of his own development.

Garnacho’s departure from Manchester United followed a difficult spell at Old Trafford. Reports indicated that his relationship with then-manager Ruben Amorim had deteriorated after frustration over reduced playing time and being left out of key matches.

The tension reportedly increased after the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, where the young forward was unhappy about starting on the bench. He was later left out of the squad entirely for the Premier League season finale against Aston Villa, making an exit increasingly likely.

Al-Nassr saw major opportunity, but why did Garnacho say no?

Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr moved quickly once the player’s future became uncertain. According to Kieran Gill of the Daily Mail, the club turned its attention to him after missing out on Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.

The attraction of the move was obvious. Garnacho would have joined a growing project, received a lucrative contract, and, most notably, played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, the player he had idolized since childhood. Despite the glamour and financial rewards on offer, the 21-year-old chose another route.

The forward wanted to stay in Europe to continue developing his career, believing regular competition at the highest level would better serve his long-term ambitions. That decision explains why Chelsea eventually became his preferred destination. Remaining in European soccer meant access to stronger weekly competition, greater visibility, and a chance to continue maturing in a demanding environment.

A year at Chelsea hasn’t helped Garnacho’s future prospects

The switch to Chelsea brought a fresh start, but not complete stability. The club underwent managerial changes, replacing Enzo Maresca with Liam Rosenior, adding another layer of uncertainty to Garnacho’s situation.

Despite his arrival, questions remain about his long-term role. The Daily Express suggests that the Blues are already considering whether to cash in on him, just a year after signing the winger.

Looking back, the decision stands as a defining moment. Garnacho turned down the chance to play alongside Ronaldo, a move that would have carried both emotional and professional significance. For Ronaldo and Al-Nassr, it represents a missed opportunity to add a young, dynamic talent to their ranks.

“It’s not only Kylian Mbappé’s fault, but his arrival has filled the Real Madrid locker room with selfishness. It’s a fiasco, and time is running out for him,” Emmanuel Petit said, via RMC Sport. Moreover, he strongly criticizes Eduardo Camavinga, defending the French striker: “If someone has to be blamed, it’s him. His entrance was catastrophic. At that moment in the match, that red card is very harsh, but the referee is simply applying the rules.”

Far from blaming the lack of specific profiles in the squad, Emmanuel Petit made it clear that Real Madrid’s issues do not necessarily stem from the sporting side. Alongside these remarks, concerns over Vinícius Jr.’s contract renewal have also emerged, as he is reportedly seeking a salary equal to that of Kylian Mbappé. With this, and the reported dressing room tensions involving Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos seem to be facing a significant internal problem.

Despite these reported ego issues, Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. have made it clear on multiple occasions that there are no problems between them, even stating that they share a close relationship. However, Real Madrid’s inconsistent performances this season have raised serious concerns, with fans expressing worries that there is no collective identity, but rather a focus on individual priorities.

Mbappé joined a Real Madrid team led by Vinícius Jr.

Real Madrid have managed to remain one of the best teams in the world, with Vinícius Jr. standing out as a difference-maker. The Brazilian has not only delivered in terms of goals, but has also been key in two UEFA Champions League titles. As a result, Kylian Mbappé’s arrival significantly shook up the squad, as the scoring responsibility and spotlight are now shared, forcing both players to adjust their roles on the pitch—something that has yet to fully click.

While Kylian Mbappé has thrived in his best goalscoring form, Vinícius Jr. has struggled to fully adapt, drawing criticism after managing just 17 goals—well below his peak level. Neither Xabi Alonso nor Álvaro Arbeloa have been able to properly integrate both players on the pitch, as when one shines, the other tends to fade into the background. Feeling that the system no longer benefits him, the Brazilian has already hinted that he is not entirely comfortable.

Real Madrid’s current problems may stem from the midfield

While many point to ego clashes and similar issues, Real Madrid could address their problems by reinforcing one key area: The midfield. Following the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, Los Blancos have lost structure in their play, leaving Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé at times looking disconnected on the pitch. As a result, they reportedly have a clear priority: Signing a controlling midfielder.

According to Francisco José Delgado via Cadena SER, Nico Paz will make a comeback to los Blancos, paying €9 million to Como 1907. While the Argentinean plays in a more offensive role, he could be a key to organize the game. To achieve that, los Blancos are reportedly open to sell Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos. For that reason, they could still chase another organizative reinforcement.

With a player capable of dictating the tempo, Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé could benefit significantly, as they would receive better service and more scoring opportunities. This would give Real Madrid a more structured style of play, helping them build a stronger on-field connection. A similar dynamic was seen with Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who thrived with a solid midfield supporting them.

According to José Armando Rodríguez, via X, Lionel Messi has traveled and trained normally with Inter Miami CF. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos will opt to start the Argentine, as the team is in need of a win following their last two draws in MLS. The Herons are not in their best form, so the veteran’s presence could serve as a turning point in their season to clinch a winning streak.

Alongside the Argentinean, German Berterame will start again in the lineup, having shined in the latest game. Nonetheless, Luis Suarez is well-rested and could provide a significant boost in front of goal, coming off bench. Meanwhile, coach Hoyos will continue to rely on Rodrigo De Paul as a key figure in midfield amid the team’s inconsistent performances.

Colorado Rapids are coming off an emphatic 6–2 victory over Houston Dynamo, providing a major boost as they look to build a winning streak in MLS. However, head coach Matt Wells faces a tough challenge, with Miguel Navarro, Theodore Ku-Dipietro, Reggie Cannon, and Connor Ronan all sidelined through injury. Despite these absences, they will look to Rafael Navarro to remain a difference-maker, as he comes in off an impressive brace.

Colorado Rapids lineups vs Inter Miami

Despite their strong form, Colorado Rapids will not have an easy matchup against Inter Miami CF, as Lionel Messi is capable of breaking down their defensive line. Nevertheless, the Rapids have shown they are one of the most dangerous attacking teams, with Paxten Aaronson and Rafael Navarro playing key roles. As a result, they will look to control the game and set the offensive tempo against the Herons’ vulnerable defense.

Considering this, Colorado Rapids will lineup as follows:

Inter Miami lineups vs Colorado Rapids

Heading into the match against Colorado Rapids, Inter Miami CF are dealing with key absences, as Sergio Reguilón and David Ayala are unavailable, while Tadeo Allende remains a doubt due to injury. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos has made many changes to the starting lineup, sticking closely to the setup from the previous match, with Lionel Messi and German Berterame expected to be key in securing the win.

With this in mind, the Herons will play as follows:

According to Daniele Longo, via Calciomercato, Igli Tare, sporting director of AC Milan, has reached a turning point in negotiations with SS Lazio for Mario Gila. After several months of talks, the Rossoneri have reached a verbal agreement with the Spanish defender, finalizing his salary and contract terms. While this brings his arrival closer, they still need to agree on a transfer fee with Lazio—something far from straightforward.

After impressing in Serie A, Gila has established as one of the league’s standout defenders, noted for his solidity and ability to build from the back. With a contract running until 2027, he could push for a move to AC Milan by refusing to renew and forcing a sale in the summer of 2026. As a result, he could join the Rossoneri for a fee in the €20–25M range, a relatively accessible price given his potential.

In their search for greater defensive consistency, the Rossoneri are not only targeting Mario Gila, but are also monitoring Ousmane Diomandé, according to Nicolò Schira. With a release clause of €80M, the Ivorian could be at the center of a major transfer, having emerged as one of the best young center-backs in the world. However, AC Milan would face strong competition from Arsenal FC, Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich.

AC Milan have yet to finalize Tomori’s contract extension

Since the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, the Rossoneri have managed to establish defensive consistency, relying on Fikayo Tomori as the experienced leader of the backline. As a result, the potential arrivals of Mario Gila or Ousmane Diomandé do not threaten the Englishman’s continuity. On the contrary, AC Milan must accelerate talks over a contract renewal for the 28-year-old defender, aiming to avoid his departure.

With a contract running until 2027, renewing Fikayo Tomori has become a priority for AC Milan, with the defender set to earn around €4M per season on a new deal until 2030. Although both parties reportedly reached an agreement months ago, it has yet to be officially announced, raising doubts among fans. As an undisputed starter under Massimiliano Allegri, his continuity is essential, given his role as the leader of the defense.

As Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH, Jürgen Klopp has reportedly been enjoying the pace of his current role, which allows him more time for his private life. Despite this, the German remains a target for Real Madrid to take over as head coach for the 2026–27 season. However, they are said to want him to make the first move by offering himself to the club, which could ultimately distance him from the Spanish side and bring him closer to Germany.

According to José Félix Díaz, via Diario AS, Klopp is still considering a return to the dugout. While he remains on Real Madrid’s radar, his focus appears to be on Germany, with the ambition of eventually managing the national team as the ultimate goal of his career. Although Julian Nagelsmann currently holds that position, the outcome of the 2026 World Cup could shape his future and potentially open the door for Jürgen.

Following the victory in the 2014 edition, Germany have failed to get past the group stage in the next two World Cups, marking a historic disappointment. As a result, Julian Nagelsmann is under significant pressure, needing a strong World Cup performance or risk being dismissed. In that context, the option of Jürgen Klopp could gain traction, as he is already an established figure in the soccer history and could help steer the sporting project back on track.

Real Madrid reportedly consider alternatives to Klopp

Far from being a simple decision, Real Madrid face a difficult dilemma, as the players reportedly support the continuity of Álvaro Arbeloa. However, Mario Cortegana reports in The Athletic that only a miracle would keep him in the role, as the front office believes the squad has not been maximized. While Klopp is a top priority, bringing him on board doesn’t seem like an easy task. For this reason, they appear to already be looking for reliable alternatives.

According to El Mundo, Los Blancos already have a clear shortlist of candidates to take over the head coach role, built around a key premise: Experience and strong man-management skills. In that context, Lionel Scaloni emerges as a leading candidate, with his contract set to expire in December 2026. However, he is not the only option, as they are also considering Didier Deschamps, Mauricio Pochettino, and José Mourinho.

According to Nicolò Schira, via X, Adrien Rabiot has received a formal approach from the Saudi Pro League. In an effort to convince him to join, the Frenchman was offered a three-year contract with a very high salary—something the Rossoneri can not match. However, with a contract running until 2028 with AC Milan, he has decided to reject any offers, aiming to continue his tenure with the club.

As a central figure for Massimiliano Allegri, Rabiot has established as one of the most important players in the squad, alongside Luka Modrić. With 2,281 minutes played, the Frenchman is among the team’s most utilized players, playing a key role in orchestrating the attack. He has also contributed five goals and five assists. However, his impact goes beyond the statistics, as he has become an undisputed leader within the team.

While Adrien Rabiot has become a key figure for the Rossoneri, fans are still expecting a greater impact from him in the final third. As a box-to-box midfielder, he consistently gets into the box, but has yet to be truly decisive in terms of goalscoring. That said, it is not solely down to the player, as the squad as a whole has struggled to deliver a high-level attacking output. As a result, AC Milan are reportedly already preparing a key midfield reinforcement.

Report: AC Milan look to reinforce Rabiot with Leon Goretzka

At the start of the 2025–26 season, the Rossoneri delivered a solid run of form, even reaching the top of Serie A. However, the drop in performance from Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão exposed the team’s overall level. Looking to strengthen Adrien Rabiot’s impact for next season, AC Milan are reportedly prioritizing the signing of Leon Goretzka, who could be an ideal complement to the squad.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has made the signing of Leon Goretzka his top priority. After offering him a €5M-per-season salary and a three-year contract, AC Milan are hoping to secure his arrival, viewing him as an experienced and reliable profile. However, the Rossoneri would likely need to qualify for the 2026–27 UEFA Champions League, as the German is keen to compete at the highest level.

With Goretzka’s potential arrival, Adrien Rabiot would gain stronger defensive support, allowing him greater freedom to express his attacking qualities. At the same time, the German midfielder also has the ability to contribute offensively, providing an additional threat in front of goal. Securing his addition to the squad could significantly boost Milan’s competitiveness, while also helping unlock the best version of Rabiot under Allegri.

“The new agreement would not only extend his stay, but also include a major salary increase. The Parisian club are willing to make Luis Enrique one of the highest-paid coaches in the world,” reported Sport this week.

Reports indicate that PSG are willing to nearly double the Spanish coach’s salary. He currently earns around €11 million gross per year, while the new deal could see that figure rise to €20 million—approximately $23.6 million annually.

That potential raise highlights Luis Enrique’s importance to PSG, who under his leadership have won 11 titles in two and a half years, while also aiming to repeat that success in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League this season.

Where would Luis Enrique rank among the highest-paid coaches in the world?

If reports of negotiations between PSG and Luis Enrique materialize and he agrees to a new deal worth around $23.6 million gross per year, the coach would climb to fourth place in the global rankings.

At present, he sits in a respectable seventh position. However, his current salary of roughly $13 million per year places him well behind the top earners. The highest-paid coach in the world right now is Diego Simeone, who earns around $35 million per year at Atletico Madrid.

Next is Al Hilal’s Simone Inzaghi, who left Inter Milan last year to take up a lucrative deal worth approximately $34.3 million in the Saudi Pro League. Rounding out the top three is Pep Guardiola, who earns about $28 million at Manchester City.

The current ranking of the highest-paid coaches in the world:

1- Diego Simeone – Atletico Madrid – $35 million

2- Simone Inzaghi – Al Hilal – $34.3 million

3- Pep Guardiola – Manchester City – $28 million

4- Mikel Arteta – Arsenal – $21.1 million

5- David Moyes – Everton – $16.9 million

6- Jorge Jesus – Al Nassr – $14.1 million

7- Luis Enrique – PSG – $13 million

8- Matthias Jaissle – Al Ahli – $13 million

9- Carlo Ancelotti – Brazil – $11.3 million

10- Unai Emery – Aston Villa – $11.2 million

England has shown moments of control and authority, yet recent performances have left questions unanswered, particularly about balance and identity under Tuchel’s leadership. The Three Lions’ qualification campaign was close to flawless on paper.

The team won all eight matches in their group without conceding a single goal, underlining defensive discipline and efficiency. However, those numbers tell only part of the story. Under the German boss, England has struggled to convince in key moments, particularly in friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, where performances lacked cohesion and attacking sharpness.

The challenge ahead is far from straightforward. England has been drawn into a difficult group alongside Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. This group has already been labeled one of the toughest in the tournament.

Croatia brings experience and pedigree, while Ghana and Panama offer unpredictability and physical intensity. For Tuchel, this context raises the stakes. Any tactical uncertainty or lack of cohesion could quickly be exposed on the biggest stage.

Hoeness reveals how Kompany is better than Tuchel

It is in this tense build-up that criticism from Uli Hoeness has added another layer of concern. Speaking publicly, the Bayern figure delivered a sharp assessment of Tuchel’s time at the German club. “Two things are important,” Hoeness began by explaining in the Auf eine weiss-blaue Tasse podcast. 

“This coach [Vincent Kmpany] makes every player better. And I’ve never seen him conduct a press conference where he said: I need a left-back, I need a right-back, as was the case under Tuchel.” The 74-year-old honorary Bayern president also questioned Tuchel’s approach to accountability, claiming: “When the team didn’t play well, he never questioned himself; it was always the team’s fault.”

Hoeness highlights issues in player treatment and trust

The critique went deeper, touching on Tuchel’s man-management. Hoeness pointed to specific examples involving players, including comments about individuals that were seen as dismissive or overly critical. “That right-back isn’t working, Kimmich isn’t a good player… I can’t use him at all,” Hoeness recalled, referencing Tuchel’s reported remarks about members of the squad.

He also shared a striking anecdote: “He once asked Josip Stanisic if he could speak German, even though he was born here.” For Hoeness, such moments reflected deeper issues in communication and connection within the team.

The ex-forward also highlighted the coach’s repeated public requests for new signings, arguing that it created unnecessary pressure on the squad structure. The former Bayern Munich boss frequently demanded reinforcements in key positions, particularly in defensive midfield, which he felt was missing a “holding six.”

He contrasted this with a more development-focused approach under Vincent Kompany, suggesting a philosophical divide in squad management. The implication was clear: Tuchel’s methods, in Hoeness’ view, leaned too heavily on external fixes rather than internal solutions.

What it means for England

The timing of these comments is significant. As Tuchel prepares to finalize his squad, questions about his leadership style are resurfacing at a critical moment. England’s recent history has been one of near misses, reaching major finals without lifting a trophy.

Now, with expectations high once again, the margin for error is slim. The concern is not purely about tactics. It is about whether Tuchel can foster unity, manage big personalities, and maintain trust within the dressing room when pressure peaks.

Modric’s arrival at San Siro was initially seen as a short-term move, but his influence has quickly reshaped expectations inside the club. Now, however, Christian Pulisic and other key squad members face uncertainty as the veteran midfielder weighs up whether to extend his stay. The midfielder’s decision is expected in the coming weeks, but it hinges on multiple sporting guarantees that the Rossoneri must first satisfy.

The Croatian veteran has exceeded expectations since joining the club on a free transfer, becoming a regular starter despite turning 40 in September. He has already started 30 of 32 league matches, proving his fitness and importance in Allegri’s system.

The club holds an option to extend his contract until June 2027, but the final decision rests entirely with the player. Internally, there is optimism, yet also caution, as the Serie A giant understands that any renewal depends on strict conditions being met.

The four conditions behind Modric’s renewal

As discussions progress, the key factors influencing Modric’s choice have gradually come into focus. Sky Italia and La Repubblica have now revealed that four specific conditions must be met for the midfielder to commit to another season in Italy.

Firstly, Modric wants to feel physically capable of maintaining his current level, a crucial factor given his age. Secondly, Champions League qualification is essential, as he aims to continue competing at the highest level of European action.

Thirdly, the Croatian is seeking assurances about the club’s ambition, with a clear expectation that Milan will build a competitive squad capable of challenging at the top. Finally, and perhaps most tellingly, the future of Allegri is a decisive element, underlining the importance of their strong working relationship.

How Allegri’s role became central to Modric’s future

One of the most significant elements in Modric’s decision is the future of Allegri, who has built a strong working relationship with the Croatian midfielder. Their mutual respect has become a defining feature of Milan’s dressing room dynamic this season.

“All the champions I’ve coached… it’s exciting to still see the videos of their technical feats,” Allegri said, reflecting on his experience with elite players. Reports now suggest that the Italian tactician’s continuation at Milan is one of the key conditions for the veteran to stay, making the coach’s position even more significant as contract discussions progress.

“I always find it quite amusing when the public asks me whether I’m in contact with Manu. Yes, I am,” Nagelsmann admitted during a recent interview with MagentaTV. However, the coach then clarified the nature of his communication with the veteran goalkeeper.

“We call each other occasionally, we text occasionally. He is capable of using WhatsApp, as am I,” Julian explained. “We also sometimes talk about other topics beyond football. We have a very good relationship.”

Nagelsmann and Neuer share a close relationship, having worked together for several years. The coach was in charge of Bayern Munich between 2021 and 2023, during which time the goalkeeper remained active and played a key role in the Bundesliga title in 2021 as well as the German Super Cup triumphs in 2021 and 2022.

In addition, when Nagelsmann was appointed Germany head coach, Neuer was still part of the squad and played under him at Euro 2024. Following that tournament, the goalkeeper decided to end his international career, and Nagelsmann does not believe that decision will change: “Manu has retired of his own free will. He has repeated that several times now. So I don’t think it makes much sense to keep discussing it constantly.”

The race to be Germany’s goalkeeper at the World Cup

Speculation about a possible return for Manuel Neuer is not only linked to his performances with Bayern Munich, but also to the lack of a clear standout option to fill that role for the Germany national team.

Marc-Andre Ter Stegen appeared to be the natural successor, but a difficult run of injuries in recent times has hurt his chances. In fact, the Girona goalkeeper is currently in the final stages of recovery from a hamstring injury and hopes to return in time for the closing stretch of the La Liga season, which could give him a chance to compete for a World Cup spot.

For now, however, that race has a clear frontrunner. Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann has started seven of Germany’s last eight matches, including the entirety of their World Cup qualifying campaign. That places him as the leading candidate, with Stuttgart’s Alexander Nubel serving as the main alternative.

The uncertainty comes after the Champions League elimination to Bayern, a result that has intensified scrutiny over manager Alvaro Arbeloa and the club’s broader direction. With Mbappe, Vinicius, and Jude Bellingham all part of an increasingly complicated attacking structure, pressure is building both on and off the pitch. As things stand, the club is again staring at a season without silverware, triggering internal discussions about major changes.

Madrid’s Champions League exit at the hands of Bayern Munich proved to be the breaking point in what has been a turbulent season. The defeat, a chaotic and high-scoring affair, effectively confirmed that the club would fall short in every major competition.

Domestically, the situation has been no less concerning, with Barcelona holding a commanding lead in the title race. Combined with an early Copa del Rey exit, the campaign has exposed structural issues that go beyond results on the pitch.

The pressure has naturally fallen on head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, whose position now appears increasingly fragile. Despite his loyalty to the club, his own words reflected the uncertainty surrounding his future, as he admitted, “It’s the club’s decision… All I want is for Real Madrid to win, regardless of who’s in charge.”

Klopp emerges as leading candidate, but only under one term

Attention has now shifted toward possible replacements, and Jurgen Klopp has become Real Madrid’s preferred long-term target, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The former Liverpool manager, now working within the Red Bull structure, is highly admired internally at the club.

However, the situation is far from straightforward. Despite strong internal support for Klopp, there has been no concrete progress toward an appointment, largely due to uncertainty surrounding his willingness to return to management.

As Romano revealed on his YouTube channel, the key condition shaping Los Blancos’ approach is that Klopp must make the first move. The club is unwilling to initiate formal negotiations unless the German signals his readiness to step back into a coaching role, leaving the entire situation in a delicate holding pattern.

This approach reflects the club’s cautious stance after previous managerial changes, especially given the instability of recent seasons. The German tactician himself has previously dismissed speculation, calling reports of contact “nonsense” while insisting no approach has been made.

What now for Real Madrid?

Real Madrid now finds itself in a familiar but dangerous position: planning a rebuild while uncertainty surrounds both the manager and squad structure. The added complication of waiting for Klopp’s decision seems to have slowed the process, leaving the club in a state of anticipation.

For Mbappe and the rest of the squad, the next few weeks could define the direction of the entire project. Whether the 58-year-old former manager eventually steps forward, or whether the Whites turn elsewhere, will determine how the club responds to another season that has fallen short of its expectations.

For a country that once defined defensive excellence, the latest setback has triggered deep reflection. The Azzurri now face a long road back, while the domestic league continues to search for answers in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup marks a third consecutive absence, an unprecedented fall for a four-time champion. The defeat in the play-off final against Bosnia-Herzegovina has led to sweeping changes, including resignations at federation level and a reset within the national setup.

The consequences were immediate and severe, with Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Gabriele Gravina stepping down, followed by the departure of Gianluigi Buffon from his role and the exit of coach Gennaro Gattuso. The collapse has left the national team searching for identity and direction ahead of the Nations League campaign.

Ancelotti points to a lost defensive identity in modern soccer

Now, weeks after the unfortunate result, Ancelotti has offered a sharp and revealing assessment of where things have gone wrong. Speaking candidly, he argued that the national game has drifted away from the principles that once made it feared across the world.

“[Serie A] has lost its defensive solidity,” he said, speaking to Il Giornale. “We already lack talent in other areas of the pitch, but excessive control of the tactical aspect has distorted our characteristics, those on which we have always built our history.” For Ancelotti, the issue is not isolated to individual mistakes but a wider philosophical change in how the game is played.

According to Ancelotti, the influence of modern soccer trends has played a significant role in this decline. Italian teams have increasingly embraced high pressing systems and man-to-man marking, approaches that carry risk when not executed perfectly. “I saw games with many goals… but too many goals also means too many mistakes, from goalkeepers and defenders,” he explained. “The so-called high pressure… involves constant risks.”

No more Maradonas, Ronaldos, and Ronaldinhos in Serie A

Ancelotti also touched on the changing dynamics of the transfer market, where Italy no longer holds the same appeal it once did. The league that attracted legends from around the world has seen its global influence diminish. “Great foreign players no longer come to Italy.”

He recalled legendary names such as Diego Maradona, Ronaldo Nazario, Michel Platini, and Ronaldinho, asking: “Where do young Italian players learn from?” For the 66-year-old tactician, the absence of such figures has reduced the league’s ability to develop elite talent.

“Deco already has the planning mapped out, but the German coach prefers to announce departures once the title is secured,” reported Mundo Deportivo on Friday. “Flick wants to avoid the noise around future signings affecting the locker room and potentially disrupting the squad.”

Following their elimination in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona’s final objective this season is La Liga. They currently sit comfortably atop the standings, holding a nine-point lead over second-place Real Madrid and an 18-point advantage over third-place Villarreal.

With seven matches remaining—meaning 21 points still in play—Barcelona’s path to the league title appears clear. Securing 13 of those 21 points would be enough for the Catalan side to clinch the trophy without relying on other results, and that number could be even lower if Real Madrid fail to win all of their remaining matches.

When could Barcelona win La Liga?

In the most optimistic scenario, Barcelona would still need to wait at least four more weeks to officially celebrate their 29th Spanish league title. There will be no La Liga action this weekend due to the Copa del Rey final between Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad, and then three league matches would be required.

If Barcelona were to win those three matches (against Getafe, Celta Vigo, and Osasuna), and Real Madrid were to lose their next three fixtures (against Real Betis, Alaves, and Espanyol), then by the end of Matchday 34, Los Blaugranas would already be champions. That would make May 3 the earliest possible date for the title to be secured.

In a more realistic scenario, Hansi Flick’s side may need a few more weeks. That opens the door to a potentially memorable situation: Barcelona clinching the title by defeating Real Madrid. El Clasico is scheduled for Matchday 35 at Camp Nou and, depending on both teams’ results in the coming weeks, could prove decisive in the La Liga title race.

Lewandowski’s future

Among the decisions Hansi Flick has chosen to delay until the La Liga title is secured is Robert Lewandowski’s future. Reports indicate that the Polish striker has received a one-year contract extension offer, although the player himself has stated he intends to take his time before deciding his next move.

In addition to the possibility of remaining at Barcelona—where he may take on a reduced role amid rumors of the club targeting another top-level striker—Lewandowski has also been linked with clubs such as AC Milan, as well as Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer and even potential moves to the Saudi Pro League.

Real Madrid have lost top spot after a long spell at the summit, overtaken by Bayern Munich. The German side now have 146.500 points, moving ahead of Los Blancos, who sit second with 144.500. The podium is completed by Liverpool, who also climbed one place and are now third with 130.000 points.

Of the four teams still remaining in the Champions League, the next best-ranked side are Paris Saint-Germain, who moved up one position to fifth place after their dominant win over Liverpool. Meanwhile, Arsenal have climbed to seventh, while Atletico Madrid have broken into the top ten.

The updated UEFA rankings after the Champions League quarterfinals:

1- Bayern Munich (146.500)

2- Real Madrid (144.500)

3- Liverpool (130.000)

4- Inter Milan (127.000)

5- PSG (126.500)

6- Manchester City (125.500)

7- Arsenal (113.500)

8- Barcelona (113.250)

9- Bayer Leverkusen (105.000)

10- Atletico Madrid (103.750)

How do the UEFA rankings work?

The UEFA rankings are a comparative system that evaluates the performance of clubs, national teams, and associations competing in European competitions, based on their results over a recent period. In the case of clubs, the calculation is based exclusively on performances in continental competitions, not domestic leagues.

That means results in the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League are what matter. There is also a defined time frame used to assess those performances. “The season coefficients from the five most recent seasons are used to rank the clubs for seeding purposes,” UEFA explain on their official website.

There is also a separate ranking that considers the last ten seasons instead of five, though it is used for financial rather than sporting purposes: “The season coefficients from the ten most recent seasons are used to calculate revenue club coefficients for revenue distribution purposes only.”

In that alternate ranking, Bayern Munich also hold first place, with a slight edge over Real Madrid. The top two positions remain the same compared to the five-year ranking, but differences emerge further down: Manchester City sit third, while PSG and Barcelona round out the top five.

The Saudi club enters the match in excellent domestic form, while the UAE club hopes home advantage can help produce an upset. Ronaldo’s availability has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of a tie that could shape Al-Nassr’s season.

Sunday’s quarter-final meeting between Al-Wasl and Al-Nassr will take place at Zabeel Stadium in Dubai, with the original two-legged format changed to a one-match tie. That adjustment followed a scheduling disruption linked to regional conflict, leaving both sides with no second chance.

For Al-Nassr, the match arrives during a strong run of results. The Saudi club sits eight points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League with five matches remaining, placing it in a commanding position domestically while also chasing continental silverware.

Al-Wasl, meanwhile, has experienced a more uneven campaign. The Emirates club has fallen well off the pace in the UAE title race, but knockout soccer offers a fresh opportunity to revive momentum.

Ronaldo’s fitness update finally emerges

Saudi journalist Abdulaziz Al-Osaimi indicates that Cristiano Ronaldo is set to be available for the AFC Champions League Two clash against Al-Wasl on Sunday. That will be welcome news for Al-Nassr after recent concerns.

Ronaldo reportedly dealt with illness and abdominal discomfort in recent days, even vomiting after the narrow league win over Al-Ettifaq, which raised doubts over his readiness. Now, signs point toward a return. The medical staff has reportedly worked to restore him to full condition, and the coaching staff sees his experience as a major asset in a knockout fixture.

Why this game matters for Ronaldo

Although Ronaldo has remained productive this season, his appearances in this competition have been selective. He has featured sparingly in the AFC Champions League Two as Al-Nassr often prioritized domestic matches and carefully managed his workload.

That strategy may now be changing. With the latter stages here, every match carries greater significance, and competitive minutes could help sharpen Ronaldo for the final stretch of the league title race as well.

At 41, game management is always part of the equation. Yet elite players often define knockout nights, and Al-Nassr knows Ronaldo can still decide major contests.

The Santos captain remains under contract in Brazil until December 2026, yet interest from Cincinnati has added a new layer of uncertainty. As his current club battles inconsistency, Neymar’s comments have only deepened the mystery surrounding what comes next.

Recent reports claim that FC Cincinnati has contacted the star’s representatives to explore whether a move to MLS could be possible. Those discussions are said to be at an early stage, with the American club first trying to understand if the player would even consider such a transfer.

That cautious approach makes sense. Neymar remains one of the biggest names in world soccer, and any attempt to sign him would involve complex financial planning, squad rules, and long-term commitment.

The Orange and Blue have shown ambition in recent seasons and reportedly see themselves as a destination for elite talent. Bringing in Neymar would instantly become one of the most significant moves in MLS history.

What did Neymar say about his future?

The most talked-about element of the story is Neymar’s own reaction to the rumors. Rather than confirming or denying anything, he offered a measured and cautious stance that kept every possibility open. “I honestly don’t know,” he told ESPN Brasil when asked about a possible move in the next transfer window.

He then offered a stronger clue about his immediate future. “I have a contract with Santos until the end of the year, and I intend to see it through.” Those words suggest that while nothing is guaranteed beyond this season, his current focus remains with Santos rather than an immediate departure.

Why a Messi reunion is being discussed

Any Neymar-to-MLS rumor naturally leads to talk of Lionel Messi. The pair dazzled together at Barcelona and later reunited at Paris Saint-Germain, forming one of the most recognizable partnerships of the modern era.

This time, however, a reunion could come in a different form. Instead of sharing a dressing room, the 34-year-old Brazilian could potentially face the Argentine superstar’s Inter Miami as a rival if he joins another MLS side.

While transfer rumors grow, life at Santos has been complicated. The veteran has endured uneven results, and frustration recently spilled over after a disappointing draw that saw fans boo the team. Neymar even became involved in a tense exchange with a supporter after the match.

“Training in the rain… Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul available for the trip to Colorado. David Ayala and Sergio Reguilon will not travel due to injury,” reported Jose Armando on Friday via his official X account.

Sergio Reguilon has been a frequent presence in Inter Miami’s injury updates this year. Brought in to fill the void left by Jordi Alba following his retirement, the Real Madrid academy product has managed to play just three matches this season, none of them in full.

A knee injury in the opening moments of the first preseason friendly sidelined Reguilon for several weeks. Upon his return, he featured in only two matches before a muscle injury forced him out again. Then, after just 45 minutes of action last Saturday against New York Red Bulls, he once again had to be substituted at halftime.

Ayala’s situation has not been much better. The young Argentine midfielder arrived to take over Sergio Busquets’ role, but so far he has not lived up to expectations, making just four appearances out of a possible nine. Personal issues and injuries have affected his performances, causing him to lose ground in the competition for a spot in the lineup.

Who could replace Reguilon and Ayala?

Looking ahead to Saturday’s match against Colorado Rapids, interim coach Guillermo Hoyos will need to find solutions to cope with the absences of Sergio Reguilon and David Ayala and ensure the team performs at its best despite the setbacks.

Hoyos’ preferences remain unclear for now, as this will be his first match in charge following Javier Mascherano’s departure. Under the previous manager, whenever Ayala was unavailable, Yannick Bright typically stepped into the midfield, making him the most likely option for Saturday’s MLS match.

As for Reguilon’s potential replacement, Noah Allen appears to be the most natural fit, as he is the only other left-footed full-back in the squad. However, Gonzalo Lujan and Ian Fray have also filled that role on occasion, giving Hoyos several options to choose from.

“Saudi Arabia sack head coach Herve Renard with immediate effect before World Cup,” reported Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on Friday via his official X account. According to reports, the decision stems from the national team’s disappointing recent results, which raised concerns ahead of the tournament.

This development not only forces a logical shift in Saudi Arabia’s own planning—now requiring a rapid adjustment under a new manager with just two months before competition begins in North America—but also triggers a strategic rethink for at least three other national teams.

Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde were drawn alongside Saudi Arabia in Group H of the World Cup, and their respective managers have spent months preparing to face those opponents based on the playing styles each side had developed. That preparation may now need to be revised.

Now, with such a sudden managerial change and virtually no time for formal testing before the tournament begins, Saudi Arabia become something of an unknown for the rest of the group. They will open their campaign on June 15 against Uruguay in Miami, face Spain six days later, and close out the group stage against Cape Verde on June 26.

Renard unable to replicate previous success with Saudi Arabia

Herve Renard had been serving as Saudi Arabia’s head coach since 2024, marking his second spell in charge of the national team. His previous tenure, from 2019 to 2023, brought global recognition after Saudi Arabia’s stunning victory over Argentina in their opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

However, his return did not produce similar results. Both performances and outcomes were underwhelming, and the March international break proved crucial in the Saudi federation’s decision to move on. During that window, the team faced Egypt and Serbia, suffering defeats in both matches: a 4-0 loss to the Africans and a 2-1 defeat to the Europeans.

Renard’s likely replacement

With the World Cup fast approaching, Saudi Arabia are under pressure to appoint a replacement quickly—and that process already appears to be underway. “Expectation is Georgios Donis leads Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup on a one-year contract,” Ben Jacobs reported on X, in a claim echoed by other outlets such as Diario AS.

Georgios Donis is a 56-year-old Greek manager with extensive experience in Saudi Arabian soccer. He has coached five clubs in the country, with his most recent role at Al-Khaleej, where his team currently sits 11th in the Saudi Pro League standings. This will be Donis’ first experience at the international level.

Match Overview

With the regular season winding down in Liga MX, the stakes couldn’t be more different as Toluca and Club America square off in a matchup loaded with urgency. Toluca enter the contest sitting on 27 points, chasing Chivas by four and running out of runway, making every remaining fixture critical if they hope to close the gap at the top.

On the other sideline, America are coming off a derby stalemate against Cruz Azul that kept them inside the playoff picture—for now—but with their top-eight position far from secure, anything less than three points here could put their postseason hopes in real danger.

Match Overview

All eyes shift to a key MLS showdown as Inter Miami look to regain momentum after settling for a high-energy 2-2 draw last time out, a result that showcased their attacking firepower but left them still four points shy of the top spot with 12 points.

With Lionel Messi leading the charge, Miami now prepares for a tough challenge against Colorado Rapids, a team riding solid form and sitting sixth in the standings with the same 12-point tally, though still trailing the conference leaders by six points—making this matchup a pivotal opportunity for both sides to climb the table.

Match Overview

The race for a top-four spot in the UEFA Champions League is heating up, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as Chelsea and Manchester United prepare for a pivotal showdown between direct rivals. Both sides come into this matchup reeling, with Chelsea trying to recover from a humbling 3-0 defeat against Manchester City.

Meanwhile, United are looking to respond after a frustrating loss to Leeds United. With confidence shaken and every point now crucial, this clash between two Big Six contenders could have a major impact on the final standings—don’t miss what promises to be a high-stakes battle.

After returning from a hamstring injury in March, Ronaldo had been flawless, netting a brace against Al Najma and a clinical strike against Al Okhdood to keep Al Nassr’s title hopes alive. However, his impact against Al Ettifaq was far more subdued; despite registering seven shots, only two found the target, and he uncharacteristically squandered a golden opportunity in the 47th minute.

Ronaldo was eventually subbed off in the 89th minute for Abdullah Al-Hamdan, but rather than joining his teammates on the bench, the Portuguese icon headed straight down the tunnel. While his departure initially sparked speculation regarding his frustration with the substitution, Jorge Jesus was quick to clear the air during his post-match press conference.

When asked about his star player, the Portuguese manager admitted that Ronaldo was nearly omitted from the lineup entirely. “I considered leaving him out; he simply wasn’t in good shape,” Jesus said. “He was suffering from stomach pains and general fatigue. When I finally substituted him, he went straight to the dressing room and threw up.“

Jesus assured reporters that Ronaldo was recovering well after the match, explaining that his absence from the post-game celebrations following the 1-0 victory was simply because he was still indisposed. Although his scoring run has ended, the veteran striker is expected to be back in the selection for the club’s next fixture.

One step closer to the SPL title

Wednesday’s hard-fought victory moves Al Nassr within touching distance of the Saudi Pro League title. The club currently sits atop the table with 76 points through 29 matches, fueled by a staggering 15-game winning streak in league play. Al Hilal remains in second place with 68 points and a game in hand, but they now face a daunting eight-point mountain to climb.

Riding the momentum of 17 consecutive wins across all competitions, Jorge Jesus reflected on the culture shift he has implemented in his debut season. “Al Nassr are not used to competing for titles, but now the players feel they are close to winning the league. I have won 24 titles, so I consider myself among the best coaches in the world. We have a great feeling and sense that we’re close to the title, but our focus now is to take it one match at a time,” he stated.

Pulisic’s struggles in 2026 have become impossible to ignore, especially after another frustrating outing in the 3-0 defeat against Udinese. The American forward has not scored since late December, and that drought has begun to affect both his confidence and his overall influence.

Despite his earlier form, his performances in recent months have lacked the sharpness that once defined his game. Injuries and tactical adjustments have played a role, disrupting his rhythm at a time when consistency was needed most.

Even at international level, the difficulties have followed him. Reflecting on his form, Pulisic admitted: “It’s frustrating, but I am just going to stay positive. I have a lot of big things ahead, and I know I’m going to get to the other side and things are going to click.”

Fresh contract update comes to light

Away from the pitch, questions about Pulisic’s future at Milan are becoming increasingly prominent. According to MilanPress, his agent has been spotted twice in the city of Milan during the past month, yet contract renewal talks remain on hold.

The report indicates that these visits were not directly tied to negotiations, with no formal meetings taking place at the club’s headquarters. Instead, discussions of a new deal appear to be on hold, leaving his long-term situation unresolved.

This delay adds another layer of complexity, particularly as Milan must soon decide whether to secure his future or consider other options. Timing is crucial, as the value of any potential transfer could change significantly depending on how long the situation remains unresolved.

Premier League ready to pounce

Pulisic’s uncertain contract status has not gone unnoticed across Europe. Clubs like Liverpool and Tottenham have reportedly shown interest, seeing an opportunity to bring him back to the Premier League. At the same time, Milan’s financial position could influence its decision-making.

With his contract running down, the club may consider a sale if an offer in the region of $70 million arrives, though that valuation could shift depending on results and performances. The possibility of missing out on Champions League qualification further complicates matters. Without that revenue, Milan may be forced to make difficult choices involving key players.

The American’s campaign has unfolded in two completely different chapters, each telling its own story. Between August and December, he scored eight goals and provided two assists, establishing himself as one of the club’s most reliable attacking threats.

Since the start of 2026, however, the numbers have taken a sharp downturn. He has failed to score a single goal this year, registering just one assist in 14 appearances, a drought that has mirrored Milan’s own struggles. His last goal came in late December against Hellas Verona, a moment that now feels distant.

What followed was a combination of reduced efficiency and a brief injury setback that disrupted his rhythm at a critical time. Milan’s broader situation has intensified the spotlight on Pulisic. Just weeks ago, the club appeared on track for a strong finish, but a series of poor results has left the Rossoneri’s position increasingly fragile.

A heavy defeat to Udinese exposed deeper issues, and the race for a top-four finish has tightened significantly. With only six matches remaining, every point carries enormous weight for the club’s future. “The Champions League quota is around 73 points,” Allegri warned, underlining the challenge ahead. Milan now finds itself chasing that target under mounting pressure, with little room for further mistakes.

What would happen if Milan misses out?

Missing the top four would trigger wider consequences across the squad. As per Calciomercato, contract renewal talks across the squad have already been put on hold, affecting several key players.

More importantly for Pulisic, there is a growing possibility that players could be put on the market if the club misses out on the Champions League. Financial consequences play a major role in this scenario, as participation in the competition brings in significant revenue.

Milan already felt the impact of missing out on approximately $65 million to $75 million in Champions League income this season, which contributed to key departures in the squad, including Theo Hernandez, Malick Thiaw, and Tijjani Reijnders. Without that financial boost again, difficult decisions could follow.

How it directly affects Pulisic

For Pulisic, the stakes could hardly be higher, the report goes on to add. His form, combined with the club’s results, may determine whether he remains a central figure or becomes part of a wider reshuffle.

Interest from abroad and his reputation as a high-profile international player make him a valuable asset in the transfer market. If Milan is forced to balance finances, players in his position could attract attention from clubs willing to invest.

At the same time, a strong finish to the season could completely change the narrative. A return to form, especially in the final six decisive matches, would reinforce his importance and potentially secure his long-term place in the project.

The result was devastating for Los Blancos, but it also underlined how central Mbappe has become to the team’s future. Even in defeat, the French star continued his record-breaking run in Europe’s biggest club competition, showing why he remains one of soccer’s most decisive players.

Bayern Munich produced a dramatic 4-3 victory over Real Madrid in the second leg of their quarter-final, sealing a 6-4 aggregate triumph and booking a place in the Champions League semi-final. The German club struck late through Luis Diaz and Michael Olise after a chaotic and emotional encounter.

Bayern Munich ends Real Madrid’s European run

Madrid had entered the match hoping for another famous comeback, but their resistance was broken in the closing stages. Tensions rose further when Eduardo Camavinga was sent off in the 86th minute, a decision that sparked furious protests from the visiting side.

The match exploded into life almost immediately when Arda Guler scored after only 34 seconds following a mistake from Manuel Neuer. Bayern responded quickly through Aleksandar Pavlovic, setting the tone for an open and high-level contest. Harry Kane then added another goal for Bayern after Guler had restored Madrid’s lead earlier in the half.

Vinicius hit the crossbar before creating the chance that allowed Mbappe to score and keep Madrid alive before the interval. That finish from the French superstar briefly gave the Spanish club the belief that momentum was shifting. Instead, Bayern’s late push proved decisive as the Bundesliga giant surged through.

Mbappe matches Benzema’s historic mark

While the team’s result was bitterly disappointing, Mbappe still reached several significant milestones with his goal. Among the many records, Mbappe tied Karim Benzema for second place among Frenchmen in a single Champions League season with 15 goals scored in one season.

That places him alongside one of Real Madrid’s greatest modern forwards and another legendary French striker. Benzema achieved the feat during his Ballon d’Or-winning season, making Mbappe’s achievement even more notable given the pressure and expectations surrounding his first full era as Madrid’s attacking leader.

Only one French player has scored more in a single UEFA campaign, with Stéphane Guivarc’h’s 1997-98 tally for Auxerre still ahead. Mbappe is also now just two goals shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s all-time single-season Champions League record of 17.

Individual brilliance amid collective frustration

Mbappe’s overall numbers this season remain extraordinary. He has scored 40 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions, a return that would usually place a player on course for multiple trophies.

Instead, Madrid now faces the possibility of finishing the campaign empty-handed. The club is already out of the Champions League and Copa del Rey, while Barcelona holds a commanding lead in La Liga.

The tournament itself is shaping up to be historic in every sense. Set to feature 48 teams for the first time, the competition is expected to generate more than $11 billion in revenue, underlining its massive global appeal. With matches spread across multiple host nations, anticipation continues to grow among fans and stakeholders alike. The 2026 edition promises to redefine the scale of international soccer. 

With 48 teams divided into 12 groups, followed by an expanded knockout phase, the structure introduces a new level of competition and opportunity. This format ensures more nations are involved, increasing both representation and unpredictability. Also, more than 500 million ticket requests have already been recorded, highlighting the event’s reach across all continents.

As speculation intensified, FIFA moved to clarify its stance on Iran’s participation. “The Iranian team is coming for sure,” Infantino told CNBC, firmly addressing the uncertainty surrounding the situation. His statement confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, putting an end to weeks of doubt.

Infantino emphasized the fundamental principle behind the decision. “They represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play,” he explained, reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to sporting merit.

Keeping the focus on soccer

Beyond the confirmation itself, Infantino highlighted a deeper philosophy guiding FIFA’s decisions. “Sports should be outside of politics,” he stated, acknowledging the challenges while maintaining a clear stance. The aim is to preserve the tournament as a platform for unity and competition, regardless of external circumstances.

He also acknowledged the realities of the world while defending this approach. “We don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth,” Infantino said, before adding that FIFA continues to work toward building connections through soccer. These remarks underline the balance between idealism and practicality in organizing a global event.

Iran’s road ahead for the tournament

Looking ahead, the focus shifts back to the competition itself. Iran is scheduled to play its group-stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, with games set to take place in major U.S. cities. If successful, further matches would continue within the same host nation as the tournament progresses.

The broader objective remains ensuring a successful and secure event. “A win would be that we have a successful World Cup from a security point of view, so no incidents,” Infantino explained. Delivering high-quality matches while maintaining safety standards stands at the core of FIFA’s vision.

Keeping a player of Brozovic’s quality would be an important step for Al-Nassr as the Riyadh outfit continues building around elite talent. According to reports from Al Youm newspaper, Al-Nassr has reached an agreement with Marcelo Brozovic over a contract renewal. The understanding would keep the Croatian international at the Saudi club for the foreseeable future.

The report suggests club officials worked hard behind the scenes to prevent any uncertainty surrounding the midfielder’s future. After weeks of discussions, both sides are now said to be aligned on the main terms of the extension.

This development would be welcomed across the club, especially by a dressing room that values stability and leadership. Brozovic’s presence in midfield has helped give balance to a side filled with attacking stars.

What still needs to happen before it becomes official

While the agreement is reportedly in place, one final step remains before everything can be announced publicly. Al-Nassr is now waiting for the player’s representative to arrive to complete the remaining formalities and finalize the official announcement. That means the deal is close, but not yet signed off in full.

Once those final administrative details are completed, the club is expected to make the extension official. In modern soccer, these last stages can often move quickly once the major terms are settled. For Al-Nassr fans, that creates optimism that confirmation may arrive soon.

Why Brozovic matters so much to Al-Nassr

Brozovic is widely viewed as a key pillar of the Al-Nassr lineup. His composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and ability to control tempo have made him one of the side’s most reliable performers. Unlike more attacking stars who often dominate headlines, the 33-year-old’s influence is seen in the structure of the team.

He helps connect defense to attack and gives freedom to creative players further forward. For a club aiming to challenge domestically and internationally, keeping a midfielder with that profile is a major priority. His consistency has made him difficult to replace.

The Croatian midfielder has featured regularly throughout the campaign. Brozovic played 34 matches in all competitions this season, scoring one goal and providing four assists.

The turning point came when Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) made a decisive move regarding one of its flagship clubs. Al-Hilal has now seen its ownership structure transformed after a majority stake was sold to Kingdom Holding Company, a firm led by a prominent Saudi investor.

The deal valued the club at approximately $373 million, signaling both confidence in the league’s growth and a willingness to shift toward private ownership. In a statement, the new ownership emphasized the broader vision behind the move.

“Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people,” the statement read. “This acquisition expresses our deep belief in the power of sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development.” The message was clear: soccer in Saudi Arabia is entering a new phase, one driven by strategic investment and long-term sustainability.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s club could be next

While the spotlight initially fell on Karim Benzema’s new environment, attention quickly turned toward Cristiano Ronaldo’s club. Behind the scenes, discussions have reportedly begun over a similar restructuring process. According to Sportksanet, it has emerged that there is a plan to sell up to 50% of Al-Nassr’s shares to external investors, including a mix of international companies and Saudi businessmen.

This potential move would mark another major shift in how top clubs in the league are operated and financed. Such a transition could redefine the club’s future, especially given Ronaldo’s global influence and the commercial weight he brings.

Why PIF is changing strategy

The reasoning behind these decisions lies in a wider economic vision, as per journalist Abdulkarim Al-Zamil. PIF has played a central role in transforming the Saudi Pro League, injecting funds that helped attract global stars and elevate the competition’s profile.

Now, the focus appears to be on maximizing returns and redistributing capital within the domestic economy, while encouraging private sector involvement. In an official explanation, the fund outlined its long-term intentions.

“The sale aligns with PIF’s strategy to maximise returns and redeploy capital within the domestic economy,” the statement noted. “PIF is unlocking opportunities to make a transformative impact in the Saudi sports sector and deliver positive, long-term results.”

What does it mean for the league?

These ownership changes could have far-reaching consequences for the league as a whole. Clubs transitioning to private ownership may gain greater flexibility in decision-making, particularly in transfers and commercial partnerships.

At the same time, the presence of global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo ensures that any structural change will be closely watched. His influence extends beyond the pitch, making Al-Nassr one of the most visible clubs in world soccer.

For Al-Hilal, now linked with Karim Benzema, the new ownership could open doors to different investment strategies and partnerships. That, in turn, may reshape competition within the league as clubs adapt to new financial realities.

“He doesn’t like me very much, Cristiano Ronaldo,” Lineker admitted during a recent appearance on The Rest Is Football podcast. “I didn’t upset him by anything I said about him, other than the fact I’m honest and think overall Messi’s a better footballer.”

The former England forward, who was the top scorer at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, has always expressed his admiration for Messi, whom he has often placed at the top of the sport alongside another Argentina icon, Diego Maradona.

Explaining how he noticed Ronaldo’s animosity toward him, Lineker said: “He unfollowed me on Instagram.” However, he did not take the setback too seriously and joked about it: “I’ll get over it. I will always like him. I’ve met him a lot of times. I know he’s got the hump with me. But that’s OK. And on that note… Please Cristiano… give me a call. Let’s be friends again.”

Lineker names his Mount Rushmore of soccer players

In the same conversation, Gary Lineker praised Lionel Messi, placing him above other great stars of the sport. “He’s my favourite player of all time, quite simply because he’s the best player of all time, in my view,” said the former Barcelona, Leicester City and Tottenham forward.

Lineker then explained that while other players deserve special mention, they fall just short of that level, which further highlights Messi’s greatness. “Even the difference between some of the real greats, the Cruyffs, Zidane, (Cristiano) Ronaldo, the fact that you can then have another level above them, quite clearly above them, is truly remarkable,” he said.

“Without his injuries, I think we’d have had Brazilian Ronaldo in that conversation. But unfortunately, he did, but he still did incredible things, and he was joyous. So, if I had four, you know, the ‘Mount Rushmore’ thing, yeah, that would be my four. So, Pele, Maradona, Messi, Fenomeno (Ronaldo),” Lineker added.

Shortly after the start of the 2025–26 season, Robert Lewandowski suffered two muscle injuries that limited his impact at Barcelona. As a result, Ferran Torres took his starting spot, delivering strong performances. Beyond the injuries themselves, this situation highlights a growing concern: his declining physical output. While the Polish striker remains in good shape, Hansi Flick’s tactical system demands far more than just goals, something he has not been consistently providing.

Unlike his previous season, Robert Lewandowski has been far less productive in front of goal. In the 40 matches he has played this season, he has managed to score just 17 goals, marking his lowest scoring output since joining Barcelona. With his contract set to expire in June 2026, the Blaugranas are not fully convinced about renewing him, reportedly offering only a one-year extension with a reduced salary and a secondary role.

His struggles have not been limited to Barcelona, as Lewandowski has also failed to impress with Poland. Despite being an undisputed starter, the veteran was unable to make a decisive impact in the final stages of the World Cup qualifiers, going scoreless against Sweden and missing out on the 2026 edition, leaving him with just two World Cup appearances in his career.

Lewandowski disappointed with Poland in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Robert Lewandowski is one of the most important players in the history of Poland. After 165 appearances, he has scored 89 goals, making him the nation’s all-time leading scorer. He also ranks among the top five international goal scorers of all time, alongside players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Despite this, the 37-year-old striker did not deliver his best performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

During the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, Lewandowski set a historic record by scoring 16 goals in 10 matches. Far from slowing down in the 2022 edition, the Polish forward once again impressed, netting 9 goals in 9 games and leading his national team to the tournament. However, he was unable to replicate that level in the most recent campaign, producing a less effective return.

Unlike the previous two editions, Lewandowski managed just five goals in nine matches for Poland. While he has played a key role in creating space and assisting teammates, his goal output has dropped significantly. He also failed to score against Sweden in the play-off final, leaving his side without his usual scoring contribution and reflecting a difficult season in which he has struggled to find his best form.

Lewandowski no longer fits in at Barcelona under Flick

Hansi Flick has managed to establish a highly dominant style of play in Europe. Since his arrival in Barcelona, he has relied on intense high-pressing and pressure after turnover involving his forwards. As a result, the Blaugranas have excelled offensively, creating far more scoring opportunities. While Lewandowski performed brilliantly in the 2024-25 season, his physical condition has declined this season, making him less productive.

During the 2025–26 season, Robert Lewandowski has become a less effective goalscorer, though he has maintained his importance in overall play by drawing defenders and creating opportunities for his teammates. However, head coach Hansi Flick has a clear demand for his striker: high pressing and immediate pressure after losing possession. As a veteran forward, Lewandowski has struggled to meet those physical demands.

Given his declining goal output and high salary, Barcelona are reportedly no longer counting on him as an undisputed starter. Instead, they are pursuing the signing of a younger forward such as Julián Álvarez, prioritizing pressing, pace, scoring ability, and creativity. That said, the Polish striker could still play a key role off the bench, offering experience and finishing quality as a more traditional central striker.

With one of the highest salaries in the squad, Robert would need to significantly reduce his wages and accept a secondary role. While this scenario would be ideal for Barcelona, he could struggle to adapt to those conditions. In addition, he continues to attract strong interest from clubs that could offer him a more lucrative contract or a more prominent role. As a result, Lewandowski is not entirely open to staying at Barcelona, feeling neglected by the club, reports Nil Sola, via SER.

How has Lewandowski’s playing style changed compared to previous seasons?

Robert Lewandowski has gone through several distinct phases throughout his career. During his tenure at Borussia Dortmund, the Polish striker established himself as a brilliant forward, physically dominant and relentless in pressing defenders to score. While not yet a standout in collective play, he still managed to record 103 goals and 42 assists in 187 appearances, attracting interest from Real Madrid and several top European clubs.

With his move to Bayern Munich, Lewandowski underwent a clear evolution in his playing style. Under the influence of Pep Guardiola, he developed into one of the most complete strikers in the world. Not only did he excel as a goalscorer, but he also became fully integrated into the team’s collective play, frequently rotating positions with Thomas Müller. At the same time, he maintained his physical dominance, finishing his spell with 344 goals and 73 assists in 375 matches.

After his historic stint in Germany, Lewandowski chose to join FC Barcelona. Despite already being a veteran, he made an immediate impact under Xavi Hernández. Thanks to his game intelligence, he stood out by scoring 33 goals in his first season, playing a key role in creating space, pressing, and winning duels against defenders. However, he has since had to adapt his style, maintaining his importance while seeing a decline in pure scoring output.

Even though Lewandowski had previously scored 42 goals for Barcelona under Hansi Flick, he has shown a noticeable physical decline this season. As a result, he has shifted his focus toward drawing defenders and facilitating play for Fermín López and Lamine Yamal. In doing so, he has remained highly influential in the team’s overall structure, albeit with a reduced scoring role, particularly as he is no longer applies pressure on opponents.

Robert Lewandowski may be an ideal fit for AC Milan

Robert Lewandowski can still thrive in European leagues, and AC Milan could be an ideal fit. Arriving as a free agent, the Polish striker would suit head coach Massimiliano Allegri. Unlike Barcelona, the Rossoneri are looking for a forward capable of dominating aerially and positioning himself between opposing center-backs. While he is not coming off his best season, he could still fulfill the role required by the Italian side.

As a more traditional, fixed center-forward, Lewandowski could maintain solid output in Serie A. Without heavy creative or pressing responsibilities, he could preserve his physicality to outmuscle defenders and convert chances consistently. With his clinical finishing, he could become a key solution for Allegri, especially as a partnership with Christian Pulisic could significantly boost his goal production.

Compared to Christopher Nkunku and Rafael Leão, Lewandowski has consistently demonstrated elite scoring ability in recent seasons, comfortably surpassing 15 goals. He also offers a strong aerial presence, which could be decisive, particularly as Milan have relied on Adrien Rabiot in that aspect. In addition, his presence could create more space for Leão and Pulisic to operate more effectively.

While Lewandowski may no longer possess the physical profile to dominate in a high-intensity collective system, he remains highly effective as a fixed striker. Moreover, he could serve as an ideal mentor for Francesco Camarda, who could develop significantly as his backup—something the club does not currently get from options like Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Giménez.

Wednesday’s elimination via a 6-4 aggregate scoreline served as a crushing blow for a Real Madrid side that had pinned its primary championship hopes on Europe, with Barcelona currently the heavy favorites to secure La Liga. Despite Mbappe netting the third goal for the Spanish giants, he was unable to stave off elimination in what was statistically his most prolific individual scoring campaign in the competition’s history.

In his first public comments following the defeat, Mbappe took to Instagram to offer a candid self-assessment of the team’s current form: “We tried until the very end, but it wasn’t enough. It’s disappointing to be eliminated from such an important competition, but we have to look ahead. We need to take a hard look at ourselves to avoid this kind of disappointment again.“

After that wake-up call to his teammates, the French striker made it clear that the club expects to be back in the trophy hunt sooner than later. “We will never give up!!! In Madrid, failure has never been and never will be an option. But I promise you one thing: we will start winning again and very soon,” Mbappe concluded.

Mbappe’s individual impact during the 2025-26 Champions League campaign was undeniable, as he racked up 15 goals in just 11 appearances. While he reached the 70-goal milestone for his UCL career, his individual brilliance couldn’t mask the team’s lack of cohesion, a process hindered by significant organizational turmoil, including the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso back in January.

Real Madrid and a 2025-26 season to forget

With 40 goals and six assists across 39 games so far, Kylian Mbappe has indisputably been the lone bright spot for Real Madrid this season. However, questions regarding the squad’s over-reliance on the star striker have intensified, casting a spotlight on the fact that despite a roster full of superstars, this iteration of Los Blancos has failed to gel as a collective unit.

The 2024-25 season, the final chapter of the Carlo Ancelotti era, saw the club lift the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup while falling short of major domestic and European honors. While the appointment of Xabi Alonso initially sparked hope during the FIFA Club World Cup, a crushing defeat in the Spanish Super Cup proved to be the tipping point that led to his midseason exit.

Real Madrid Castilla coach Alvaro Arbeloa stepped in to lead the first team but has struggled to stabilize the ship. Under his watch, the club suffered a shock Copa del Rey exit to second-tier Albacete and the recent Champions League heartbreak against Bayern.

Currently, La Liga is being dominated by Barcelona, sitting at the top with 79 points in 31 games and a 9-point difference to second-placed Real Madrid. With just seven games remaining, Los Merengues are on the verge of their first trophyless season since 2020-21, the final hallmark of a campaign the club would rather forget.

“Raul Jimenez and Santiago Gimenez are the main forwards of the Mexico national team, and that appears to be beyond any doubt as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches,” Diario Marca reported this week.

Indeed, the Fulham forward has been a key figure based on recent call-ups. And while Gimenez has struggled this year at AC Milan due to inconsistent performances and injuries, he has built a strong reputation in Europe to earn that consideration.

“The debate is over the third striker for the World Cup,” the report adds. “The focus is on Armando Gonzalez and German Berterame, who are competing for a place in the 26-man squad that Javier Aguirre will select for the FIFA tournament.”

Who is Armando Gonzalez?

One of the fastest-rising players in Mexican soccer in recent years is Armando Gonzalez. The striker will turn 23 next week and is currently enjoying the best season of his professional career with Guadalajara.

After beginning his career with Tapatio in Liga de Expansion MX in 2020, ‘La Hormiga’ (The Ant) reached Liga MX in 2024 and has since established himself as a key player for Guadalajara. This season, he is the team’s undisputed star, leading the standings and topping the Clausura tournament scoring chart with 12 goals.

Those performances earned Gonzalez a call-up to the Mexico national team, where Javier Aguirre gave him the opportunity to make his debut in a friendly against Paraguay in November 2025. Since then, he has recorded six appearances, one goal and one assist at the international level.

Berterame is struggling at Inter Miami

While Armando Gonzalez is in the best form of his career with Guadalajara and gaining prominence with the Mexico national team, German Berterame is having trouble finding his rhythm on the field.

Inter Miami paid $15 million to Monterrey at the start of this year to sign the Argentina-born forward, hoping he would become an important attacking piece for the team. However, his start with the club has not been ideal: across MLS and the Concacaf Champions Cup, Berterame has managed just one goal in nine appearances for the Herons, raising questions about his place in the starting lineup.

That lack of form at club level has impacted his chances internationally. Javier Aguirre has included Berterame in the starting lineup in only one of Mexico’s five matches this year, while in two others he did not see the field at all.

In a press release issued on April 16, the PIF announced an agreement with Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) for the acquisition of a 70% stake in Al Hilal Club Company. The firm, led by Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud, will now serve as the club’s majority owner, while the PIF retains a 5% interest in the share capital.

As a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s “Sports Clubs Investment and Privatization Project,” the PIF became the majority shareholder of Al Hilal, alongside Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, in July 2023. This initial investment was designed to accelerate club growth and increase the sports sector’s overall contribution to the Saudi GDP.

A new strategy is now taking shape with the completion of the first of these four sales, as the PIF seeks to maximize returns and redeploy capital within the domestic economy. This gradual exit from majority ownership aims to guide the clubs toward financial sustainability while the PIF maintains a role as a minority shareholder or strategic partner.

In a statement released on PIF’s website, KHC Chairman Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud reflected on the landmark deal: “Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people. This acquisition expresses our deep belief in the power of sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development. By applying our global investment standards and cultivating strategic partnerships, we will unlock Al-Hilal’s full potential while preserving its history and identity.“

Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad up next

Al Hilal represents only the first phase of this divestment process. Following this precedent, the PIF will move forward with the sales of Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli, seeking suitable suitors to continue the clubs’ professional development.

Reports have already revealed that, alongside a new contract signed in June 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a 15% ownership stake in Al Nassr valued at £50 million (approximately $66.7 million). As the PIF actively pursues new majority owners for the club, the Portuguese legend is positioned to assume an even more significant role in the organization.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Al Nassr is encouraging Ronaldo to increase his equity, further deepening his ties to the Saudi side’s ownership structure. With club sales expected to be phased over the coming years, the soccer icon could see his influence grow significantly in the near future.

Vini produced a brilliant play and assisted Kylian Mbappe on Real Madrid’s third goal in the closing minutes of the first half, which temporarily put the Spanish side level in the tie. With that contribution, the Brazilian winger reached 13 assists in the knockout stages of the European competition.

In doing so, Vinicius moved past Lionel Messi for second place in the all-time rankings in that category. The Argentine forward had recorded 12 assists in Champions League knockout matches during his time with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains at the top of the list, having recorded a total of 15 assists in the tournament’s knockout stages across his spells with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. No other player has come close to those numbers, but Vinicius, at just 25 years old, needs only three more to claim the all-time record.

Vinicius also draws level with Neymar

That assist to Mbappe at the Allianz Arena also helped Vinicius climb the all-time Champions League assist rankings, including both the knockout rounds and the group stage. Vini is now tied with Neymar for fourth place on the list with 33 assists, and he has strong prospects of closing in on the top spots in the near future.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, as expected, are also in the top three, with the Portuguese star leading the way. However, there is another somewhat unexpected name included: Angel Di Maria, who played alongside both legends at Real Madrid and PSG, respectively.

All-time Champions League assist leaders:

1- Cristiano Ronaldo (42)

2- Angel Di Maria (41)

3- Lionel Messi (40)

4- Neymar (33)

4- Vinicius (33)

6- Kevin De Bruyne (31)

6- Ryan Giggs (31)

8- Xavi Hernandez (30)

8- Thomas Muller (30)

10- Karim Benzema (29)

10- Andres Iniesta (29)

“The Argentine footballer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Leo Messi, has finalized the acquisition of UE Cornella,” the club announced in a statement published Thursday on their official website. “With this operation, Messi strengthens his close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalunya.”

UE Cornella are a club founded in 1951 and based in the autonomous community of Catalunya, around 50 miles from Barcelona. They currently compete in the Tercera RFEF (Spain’s fifth division) and sit third in Group V, five points behind leaders Manresa.

“The arrival of Leo Messi opens a new chapter in the club’s history, with the aim of driving its sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its structure, and continuing to invest in talent. The project includes a long-term vision, with a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and local identity,” the statement added.

How many clubs is Lionel Messi involved in?

While continuing his professional career — since 2023 with Inter Miami — Lionel Messi has also begun exploring a role that was previously unfamiliar to him: club ownership and management. On more than one occasion, he has said this side of soccer appeals to him more than coaching, as he looks ahead to life after retirement.

Last year, he joined his friend and teammate Luis Suarez in a project of this kind in Uruguay, becoming co-founders and co-owners of Deportivo LSM. The club debuted in the country’s fourth division and, in its first season — 2025 — earned promotion, beginning what looks like a promising path forward.

In addition, the Messi family also founded a club in Argentina: Leones de Rosario FC, based in Leo’s hometown. The project began in 2015 with a focus on developing young talent, but this year took its first professional step by joining Primera C, Argentina’s fourth division.

Messi and Ronaldo follow similar paths

The news of Lionel Messi’s acquisition of UE Cornella comes just months after Cristiano Ronaldo made a similar move. The 41-year-old forward has owned a 25% stake in Almeria since February of this year, another club competing in the lower tiers of Spanish soccer.

Almeria, unlike UE Cornella, are a more established club with greater tradition: they have spent a total of seven seasons in La Liga, most recently in 2024. Messi’s new club, meanwhile, have yet to play in Spain’s top division.

“Being on the field with the greatest player in history is extraordinary,” Hoyos said in his first press conference as head coach of the Herons, as shared by reporter Jose Armando on his official X account.

Regarding the nature of his relationship with Messi, the coach was clear: “There’s a friendship we’ve built over the years, like with many other players in different countries… Friendship is non-negotiable.”

However, Hoyos made it clear that this bond of trust also comes with boundaries. “That doesn’t mean we’re around him every day. You have to respect everything — his privacy, for example — be prudent, and quietly continue building this approach,” Guillermo said. “All of this is new.”

How did Messi and Hoyos meet?

Lionel Messi and Guillermo Hoyos first crossed paths when the forward was still a teenager and had just arrived at Barcelona. At the time, Guillermo was working within the club’s academy and quickly took on a role in helping his compatriot adjust to a new country and club.

“He helped me a lot from the moment I arrived at Barca. He was always there for me… He taught me things and helped me get to where I am,” Messi said previously about Hoyos’ role in his development at Barcelona, according to Ole.

More than 20 years later, the two reunited at Inter Miami in different roles: Messi as the team’s superstar and Hoyos as sporting director. However, Mascherano’s sudden departure forced the club to turn to him to fill the vacancy, at least on an interim basis.

Hoyos highlights Inter Miami’s structure

In the same press conference, Guillermo Hoyos addressed his current situation after moving from sporting director to interim head coach. “I’m at the club’s service, and that’s why I’m in this position today. A couple of days ago, I was in a different role,” he said. “I’m here to help in any way the club needs.”

Finally, Hoyos expressed strong optimism about Inter Miami’s potential. “It’s one of the 10 best clubs in the world, not just in MLS,” the coach said. “Because it has a structure. And especially with the stadium they’ve inaugurated, which is something extraordinary. It’s a club with tremendous potential.”

The competition was Madrid’s last realistic route to major silverware in a season which promised a lot, but will ultimately deliver nothing.

Barring a monumental collapse by Barcelona in La Liga, the 15-time European champions will end a second consecutive campaign without a trophy.

With that in mind, read on as we assess the repercussions for Real Madrid, starting with an issue which has been entirely of their own making.

Mbappe has proved to be a curse rather than a blessing

Kylian Mbappe is one of the best forwards in the world. That point is evidenced by his tally of 84 goals in 98 appearances for Los Blancos.

However, his desire to be the ‘main man’ is not only a problem Madrid didn’t need, but one which they could have avoided.

Mbappe scored 256 goals in 308 for Paris Saint-Germain. However, his efforts in front of goal failed to deliver the desired results in the Champions League.

In their first season without the French international in their team, PSG were crowned kings of Europe. They have reached the semi-finals again this season.

By contrast, Mbappe has made Madrid worse. They won La Liga and the Champions League in 20234/24 – since then, they have suffered a series of disappointments.

The 27-year-old’s ego was problematic when he was at PSG, and has continued to upset the equilibrium in Madrid’s dressing room.

Players such as Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior are no shrinking violets, yet are expected to play second fiddle to the ‘Mbappe Show’.

Intriguingly, Madrid looked far more coherent as a team when Mbappe was recently sidelined with a knee injury. With Vinicius and Brahim Diaz leading the line, they were more balanced.

It may seem churlish to question a player who has scored goals for fun in Madrid colours, but it cannot be ignored that they have regressed since signing him.

Arbeloa on shaky ground after Champions League exit

Madrid’s decision to appoint Xabi Alonso as manager last summer appeared to be a sensible decision with SportsView and other major football publications all predicting success for Los Blancos, but he lasted just seven months.

At a club packed with egos and led by president Florentino Perez, the former Bayer Leverkusen boss was always likely to be on a hiding to nothing.

Alonso quickly lost the dressing room, with Vinicius and Federico Valverde amongst the players who publicly expressed disapproval at his methods.

Appointing Alvaro Arbeloa as Alonso’s replacement was no real surprise. He had done well with the club’s youth and ‘B’ teams, so was viewed as a steady pair of hands.

However, the club’s failure to specify the length of his contract when he was placed in charge suggested that they were unsure whether he was the right man for the job.

A record of 13 wins and one draw in 21 matches highlights why Madrid may have been reluctant to confirm whether he was a long-term appointment.

Arbeloa will reportedly be replaced this summer, with Perez seemingly eager to bring in someone with a proven track record of success.

That may be easier said than done given the dearth of viable options currently available.

Madrid’s managerial options are thin on the ground

Alonso seemed to be the ideal fit for Madrid. He was a former player who subsequently enjoyed success as a manager with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.

Sacking him after just seven months in charge did not seem like the brightest idea anyone had ever had, and developments this summer may hammer home that point.

Several managers have been linked with the Madrid managerial job including Zinedine Zidane, Jurgen Klopp and Maurico Pochettino.

Perez rates Zidane highly, but he seems destined to replace Didier Deschamps as the French national team manager at the end of the World Cup.

Klopp would be welcomed with open arms at the Santiago Bernabeu, but has demonstrated no desire to leave his position as head of Red Bull’s football operations.

Pochettino could be available after the World Cup, although nothing he has done with the United States national team suggests he is the right option for Madrid.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been touted as a possibility after the club recently confirmed he will be leaving at the end of the season.

Several pundits believe the 43-year-old is an ‘elite-level’ manager, but whether he is ready to step into the Madrid hot-seat is hugely debatable.

Madrid’s eagerness to pander to egotistical players and dispense with Alonso’s services has created a problem that may find extremely difficult to fix this summer.

According to James Pearce, via The Athletic, Virgil van Dijk has decided not to renew his contract with Liverpool. Although he is an undisputed starter for head coach Arne Slot, the Dutch defender has decided to leave the team at the end of the 2026-27 season, as he has one year remaining on his contract. With this, the Reds could face significant uncertainty, as Joe Gomez’s contract also expires that same season and Ibrahima Konate has not yet renewed his contract.

Amid uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté, the Reds have already secured the signing of Jérémy Jacquet, paying €63.6M to Stade Rennes, with the defender joining Giovanni Leoni as part of the club’s future core. However, the potential departure of van Dijk has forced Liverpool to prioritize the signing of Marcos Senesi, leading the race for his signature ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United, according to Pete Hall and Mark Douglas via The iPaper.

At 28 years old and with four years of Premier League experience, Marcos Senesi would represent an immediate solution for the Reds. By securing his arrival, Liverpool FC would add one of the top left-footed defenders in England, who could benefit from a season alongside Virgil van Dijk to fully adapt to the team. Additionally, the Argentine could play a key role in allowing Giovanni Leoni time to develop, as both share a similar left-footed profile.

Virgil van Dijk’s departure could mark the end of an era at Liverpool

Following the arrival of Arne Slot, Liverpool have undergone a major squad rebuild, with the departures of Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez, and Trent Alexander-Arnold among the first. Far from ending there, Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson have also announced their exits at the end of the season, losing several key leaders. On top of that, the potential departures of Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker would mark the end of an era at the Reds.

With contracts running until 2027, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker are reportedly not expected to renew and could leave as free agents, meaning Liverpool FC would lose key figures from its leadership core. As a result, the Reds face the difficult challenge of replacing their on-field impact, with Giorgi Mamardashvili seen as the successor to the Brazilian, while Marcos Senesi could step in for the Dutchman.

Van Dijk has already pointed to Dominik Szoboszlai as his preferred candidate to become the Reds’ next captain. Still, head coach Arne Slot would need to select two additional leaders, with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch potentially stepping up. This would mark the beginning of a new era for Liverpool, one that raises questions about the squad’s competitiveness and leadership structure.

According to El Nacional Cat, Barcelona sporting director Deco has informed Marcus Rashford that the club will not trigger the €30M purchase option from Manchester United. Not only do they consider his valuation to be too high, but they also do not believe he fits the sporting project. After failing to make a decisive impact in the tie against Atlético Madrid, the Englishman has been fully ruled out by the Spanish side.

In the absence of Raphinha due to injury, Marcus Rashford took the his place in the starting lineup for the Champions League quarterfinals. Given a major opportunity to shine, the Englishman delivered a heavily criticized performance, missing key chances in the first leg and being relegated to the bench in the second leg. As a result, Barcelona now appear to have decided against signing him, focusing instead toward a young, high-potential left winger.

With the reported decision by the Blaugranas, Marcus Rashford has decided to change his stance, expressing openness to a return to Manchester United—a move to which coach Michael Carrick is reportedly quite receptive, reports Simon Stone, via BBC. However, the Reds are unwilling to discuss his return to the roster until they have secured their Champions League spot. The English forward could be a key asset in competing against world-class teams.

Marcus Rashford reportedly attracts interest from Juventus

Marcus Rashford remains under contract with Manchester United until 2028, meaning he would be expected to return to the club at the end of the season. However, the Red Devils could face difficulties covering his high wages and may look to sell him if they fail to secure a spot in the 2026–27 UEFA Champions League. As a result, Juventus FC are reportedly emerging as a clear solution for the Englishman.

According to SportsBoom, the Vecchia Signora are open to signing Rashford if either Manchester United or Barcelona decide not to keep him in their squad. Despite being 29, the English forward could provide a decisive boost to Juventus’ attack, having proven his ability to deliver both goals and creativity. That said, his salary remains a significant hurdle and would likely need to be reduced.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Inter Milan are open to the departure of Alessandro Bastoni in the summer of 2026. Despite being a cornerstone of the team, they are aware of the Italian’s interest in moving to Barcelona, valuing his transfer at €70M (around $82M). However, the Spanish side is reportedly aiming for a deal in the €50–60M range (around $58–70M). As things stand, both parties appear to be moving toward a compromise.

In an effort to reinforce their defensive line, the Nerazzurri are interested in signing Héctor Fort, a Barcelona full-back currently on loan at Elche CF. With this in mind, the Blaugrana could be open to including him in a deal for Bastoni, reducing the overall transfer package, according to Matteo Moretto. Valued at €12M on Transfermarkt, the Spanish full-back could bring the operation down to the €50–60M range that they are looking to pay.

Following his red card with Italy national football team in the last match, Alessandro Bastoni does not appear fully comfortable. Ahead of the next game against Cagliari Calcio, head coach Cristian Chivu acknowledged that the defender is not at his best, both physically and mentally, ruling him out. As a result, he could push the Italian side for a move to Barcelona, potentially forcing a reduction in his transfer fee in the summer of 2026.

Barcelona reportedly add Luka Vušković as backup to Bastoni deal

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have kept Alessandro Bastoni as their top priority, as his profile is highly valued by sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick. However, his signing could prove quite complex, as Inter Milan maintain a very high valuation. As a result, the Blaugrana have reportedly also turned their attention to Luka Vušković, who has impressed at Hamburger SV.

According to Gabriel Sans, via Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are closely monitoring Luka Vušković. Despite being under contract with Tottenham Hotspur until 2030, the Croatian is not keen on playing for the English side and is seeking a move following his loan spell at Hamburger SV. Should they end up being relegated, the defender could push even harder for an exit, with FC Barcelona interested in securing his arrival.

After impressing at Hamburger SV, Luka Vušković has seen his valuation rise to €60M (around $70M) on Transfermarkt, and it could climb even higher, as Tottenham are keen to keep him. However, his agent, Pini Zahavi, has a close relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, which could facilitate a move by putting pressure on the English side to negotiate his sale.

According to Abraham P. Romero, via El Mundo, Los Blancos have decided to move on from Álvaro Arbeloa, as they believe he failed to get the most out of the current squad. As a result, they have chosen to rule out young, inexperienced candidates, instead focusing on those with world-class experience. In this context, Lionel Scaloni emerges as a clear candidate to take over the role after the 2026 World Cup.

With a contract with Argentina running through the end of 2026, Scaloni may not face a difficult exit from the national team. After ending a 36-year drought without winning a World Cup title, he has become one of the best coaches in the world, building a roster with a good balance between experience and youth. However, he may not decide on his future until after the tournament, leaving Real Madrid without a clear answer for several months.

While Lionel Scaloni managed to lead Argentina to a World Cup title, he has never had experience as a head coach at club level. His closest role came as an assistant to Jorge Sampaoli at Sevilla FC. Far from being a simple challenge, he could face the demanding day-to-day environment at Real Madrid, defined by sky-high expectations and little tolerance for trophyless seasons. With this in mind, Los Blancos are keeping four other alternatives on their shortlist.

Not only Scaloni: Real Madrid reportedly chase four coaches

After Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Real Madrid made the risky decision to back Xabi Alonso, who had impressed at Bayer Leverkusen. However, he did not arrive with extensive experience managing star players, something that ultimately cost him his position. Nor has Álvaro Arbeloa proven to be the solution, as he failed to change the team’s reality. As a result, they are reportedly not only adding Lionel Scaloni, but also considering four other experienced candidates.

Alongside Lionel Scaloni, Los Blancos have decided to add Didier Deschamps, who is set to leave France after the 2026 World Cup. While Jürgen Klopp is another clear favorite, he is not expected to leave the Red Bull GmbH group, but he will once again be tempted. Moreover, Mauricio Pochettino emerges as a surprise candidate, as president Florentino Pérez reportedly holds him in high regard, according to El Mundo.

While the incident between Vinícius Jr. and Gianluca Prestianni cast doubt over his candidacy, José Mourinho is also considered among the options to coach Real Madrid, according to El Mundo. As one of the managers most beloved by the fanbase, the Portuguese could be key to getting this promising team back on track, having consistently shown his ability to manage big egos and leading los Blancos into a new era.

World Soccer Talk had the opportunity to sit down with Argentine youth developer Facundo Alvanezzi, who spent 11 years at Swiss club FC Basel between 2008 and 2019. Having trained in South America and studied the methods of some of Europe’s most renowned clubs, including FC Barcelona, AC Milan and Bayern Munich, Alvanezzi applied his knowledge to help produce elite talents such as Granit Xhaka, Xherdan Shaqiri and Fabian Schär, among others.

A former professional player in Argentina who also played in Italy, Alvanezzi began his coaching career at Aldosivi before departing for Basel in 2008. Moving from scheduled training sessions with limited soccer balls, “compensated by the amount of talent,” to an environment where every youth team trained on a heated pitch, had balls for every player, full kits and access to psychologists, nutritionists and other health professionals represented a dramatic shift in perspective.

FC Basel and a commitment to youth development

Already proficient in Italian from his playing days, Alvanezzi still had to immerse himself in the cultural and linguistic demands of his new environment, all in service of what he considers the cornerstone of his work: communication. In a single training session, he might move between Italian, French, and German while coordinating multiple groups of young players across state-of-the-art facilities designed to maximize their development.

“A club like Basel worked with all 14 or 15 age groups all at the same time. The First Division had its own separate pitch. But for everything related to the youth levels from U21 down, everyone had their own respective pitch. Even the littlest ones, the 5 and 6-year-olds, had their own synthetic fields with dimensions suited for 5 or 6-year-olds. Just to give you an idea—no time was wasted there. In other words, time is utilized in a way that enriches you instead of being a deficit that hinders the development of future players.“

Alvanezzi then put into context the remarkable achievement of a small nation punching well above its weight. “You can’t forget that Switzerland has a population of between 6 and 7 million inhabitants, so the emerging talent back then was very scarce. They did an extraordinary market study so that today they have 17, 18, 19, and 20-year-olds—which didn’t happen before—playing and qualified for the next World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada. So, basically, everything related to infrastructure and planning… whether you like it or not, having that entire grid set up allowed me—as someone passionate about football who loves being on the pitch—to work peacefully. I knew I had my designated pitch to work with the U15s, the U16s, the U17s,” he added.

The role of a youth developer and the cultivation of talent

A fluent Spanish speaker, Alvanezzi describes himself as a “formador de juveniles,” a youth developer rather than a coach, drawing a sharp distinction between the two roles: “The developer (formador) teaches and builds; they earn very little, if anything at all. In terms of titles—U14s, U15s, the Reserves… I don’t care about those. The coach (entrenador) is there to train, to play, to compete, to get points, to win a domestic league, a Libertadores, a Euros, a Champions League, or a World Cup. They are two completely different things. That’s why there aren’t many coaches developing players, and there aren’t many developers coaching elite teams.“

Another key principle in his approach is trusting the creative instincts of young players rather than issuing directives, recognizing that the youth phase is when information can have the most profound impact. He pairs this with a cosmopolitan perspective while never abandoning his own core beliefs.

“In other words: at no point do I impose. I don’t impose knowledge, authority, or didactics—nothing. I seduce. Those are two completely different things. And I try to seduce through knowledge. Because when you have knowledge, you can ‘disarm’ the player; when you explain the how, the when, the where, and the why. Of course, when I go somewhere else, I adapt, but I cannot renounce my genes.“

When he arrived in Switzerland, Alvanezzi found himself surrounded by cutting-edge technology, GPS tracking and gym equipment, yet he remains committed to the idea of developing players “with a ball.” “In player development, I adapted to the systems, but with my own imprint. I carry the Argentine imprint everywhere. It’s this: I watch a player—how he walks—a 5-year-old, a 10, 15, or 20-year-old. I watch him walk. I throw him a ball. I watch him make a couple of touches—juggling in the air, a change of direction. And right then, I realize what that footballer might be capable of. Or not,” he explained.

The value of mistakes in youth development

Elite clubs increasingly measure the success of their youth teams by silverware, mirroring the pressure placed on the first team. But for Alvanezzi, perfection is not the goal. Forcing young players into rigid systems, he argues, sends them to the first team with significant blind spots, and he views the ability to make mistakes as one of the most valuable learning tools available.

“Here are players I can ask to play a football of possession and position. And then there are footballers to whom I have to say, ‘You: control the ball, don’t carry it, and pass it to a teammate.’ Meanwhile, for another player—because I go against the establishment and the system—,” Alvanezzi said.

“I believe one of the virtues I have in this vocation of developing players is that I value the error. From the error, I create the virtue of the success. In the context of teaching, I don’t criticize the player; I seduce him. ‘But what if I struggle, I lose the ball, it’s hard for me, and they score on us?’ And what’s the problem? I don’t want my trophies and medals hanging in my house. What good are they to me? If, in the end, I didn’t get any player to move up to the First Division. If I didn’t develop a single player for the first team,” he added.

Alvanezzi, who says he has not a single medal or trophy displayed in his home, considers the players he has helped reach the elite level to be his true honors: “Now, my ‘medals’ are an average of 45 to 50 players who reached the top level. Especially at Basel. We had a coach like Thorsten Fink, who helped us a lot and used to play for Bayern Munich. He helped us bring up kids at 16 or 17 years old. I had the pleasure of training players like Yann Sommer, Granit Xhaka, Shaqiri, Breel Embolo, Noah Okafor, Fabian Schär , Eray Cömert, Neftali Manzambi, Raoul Petretta, Cedric Itten—an immense number of players. Those are the medals one gets to hang up.“

He then stressed that the developer’s job demands patience and an embrace of the mistake. “They need to learn to play with the right foot, with the left foot, and have a lot of contact with the ball. When I arrived at Basel and asked for—for example, the squads there are 18 players—I asked for no less than one ball per player. At first, they just looked at me. ‘Why one ball per player?’ Because, what did I achieve over the years? That in an hour and a half, the players went from an average of 200 touches in a standard session… once I integrated the technical and game-based training, that multiplied to 1,400 daily touches with the ball. The more touches you have, the more you polish the errors.“

In an environment dominated by innovation, Alvanezzi believes the fundamentals are often left behind, and his street soccer mentality changed the culture at Basel. “In Europe, ‘soccer practice’ (11v11) doesn’t exist. From Monday to Friday, it’s all small-sided games. Everything. So when I got to Basel, imagine the resistance from the other coaches. They told me, ‘No, Facundo, you’re crazy. The players will get injured; we don’t do that here; everything is small-sided.’

“And I told them, ‘The 11v11 is the symptom for Saturday or Sunday; it’s how you know which player you can count on and which one you can’t. You might think you can count on someone, but on a full pitch, it becomes too big for them, and they become completely disorganized. We need a parameter.’ Well, I implemented it at Basel until it became their own ‘modus operandi’ that on Thursdays, we did the 11v11 practice. The teams started improving exponentially because they were finally playing football not in a 20×20 or 30×30 space, but in 100×65—which is where real football is played,” he added.

‘Hunger’: the defining trait of the players who made it

Among the many stars Alvanezzi has helped develop, a common thread runs through the backstories of those who reached the highest level: adversity. Both Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka were born and raised in a disintegrating Yugoslavia amid violence before finding asylum in Switzerland. Breel Embolo‘s path was similar, leaving Cameroon with his family before settling in France and eventually Switzerland.

That contrast between their upbringing and those of more comfortable peers is precisely what Alvanezzi calls “hunger,” the spark that gave them a decisive edge. “From an early age, when you watch them train—unlike the vast majority of Swiss youth developers who never experienced need—these were kids of struggle. They are born, raised, and developed out of hardship. So, the only possibility they had to emerge—unlike other great Swiss talents I had at Basel who didn’t make it—they weren’t going to make it because they lacked that ‘hunger.’ That potentiality of saying, ‘Through soccer, I am going to help my family; I am going to emerge; I am going to be somebody.‘”

Alvanezzi then reflected on the social realities that shaped Xhaka, Shaqiri and Embolo. “They lacked even the most basic conditions in an elite, first-world country. They were segregated because they weren’t Swiss. They are three starters for the Swiss national team who have played in World Cups, but Breel is from Cameroon, and the other two are Kosovar. When society wasn’t integrating them, but they were useful to the national team football-wise, they nationalized them.“

He then illustrated how that hunger translates into a measurable competitive advantage. “Genetically, all of that plays in their favor, 80 or 90% more than the well-off Swiss player… That “plus” works in your favor. While they came to training on foot or by tram, the vast majority of players of Swiss origin came every day with their fathers in a different car—a Mercedes-Benz, a Porsche… That factor of having nothing missing ends up working against you. Since you have everything, what am I going to be ambitious about? Playing in a World Cup? I’m not interested. Reaching the first team? If I make it, I make it, and if I don’t, I still have everything,” he stated.

A memorable trip to South Africa

In 2010, following the World Cup in South Africa, Alvanezzi traveled to the country for fifteen days representing the Swiss U15 national team with Basel at the Danone Nations Cup, competing against teams from Japan, Argentina, China, England, Italy and others. What left the deepest impression on him, however, was not the competition itself but the cultural awakening it triggered among his Swiss players and the youth developers around them.

“They didn’t know what it was like for a kid not to have a cell phone, or to walk around barefoot. They couldn’t understand why colored people sat at one table and white people at another because of the legacy of apartheid. All the Swiss kids traveled with the latest cell phones. They would leave half of their plates full of food. And 50 meters away, at the fence in a gated area of the complex, local kids would come to beg for food,” he recalled.

“Along with several other Latino coaches, I would gather the leftover food and give it to them. It reached the point where FIFA was going to fine me, because they said I wasn’t allowed to feed the people. And I told them: ‘Why not? It’s the most important thing; they’re hungry. The only one who understood it on that trip was Breel Embolo,” Alvanezzi added.

Talent, mentality and the cohesion of a group

One of the most enduring debates in sports is whether the right mentality can outshine raw talent through sheer hard work, or whether that notion is simply wishful thinking. For Alvanezzi, the two qualities are not in competition but are complementary, with every player on a team assigned a specific purpose that allows both to coexist.

Using the contrasting examples of Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki, one a physical force of nature, the other a pure embodiment of technical brilliance, he illustrates how different profiles can coexist within the same system “They are complementary and different at the same time. You can link this to the aspect of mental construction. Mentality is also something you develop. If I convince you that in three years you have to improve your heading or your left foot, and you end up doing it in a match to stop a counter-attack… that is mentality,” Alvanezzi stated.

“When you see Haaland playing with his back to the goal, he looks like an average player; put him facing the goal, and he’s an animal. He hides his deficit in back-to-goal play—and tries to do it as little as possible—but he has an above-average mentality that allows him to fail ten times and try again. Cherki, on the other hand, relies entirely on his talent. He has a different mentality, but he understood that to stay at the elite level, he must not interpret that (reliance on talent) as a fragility,” he added.

While Alvanezzi acknowledged that mental strength is partly something “you bring it with you, but you can also incorporate it,” he was equally quick to point out that he has seen players with extraordinary talent but no capacity for hard work, and others with far less natural ability but the psychological resilience to make it to the top. Bridging that gap, he argues, is just as much the developer’s responsibility as any technical instruction.

“Mental construction is also developed. If I talk to you and try to seduce and convince you of your errors with respect, you will be more receptive. Today, kids are given 20 hours of leisure time outside of training, and we don’t teach them how to think. But to develop players, you must be emotionally well-constituted and rationally grounded. If you aren’t vocational and emotional, you cannot develop players; you should do something else.“

Beyond individual qualities, Alvanezzi insists that everything must be considered through the lens of the collective, where a single weak link can unravel even the most talented group: “The developer has to work with a clear idea and a common goal. The ‘mind’ of the team, 90% of the time, has to be uniform. If it isn’t uniform, the group disintegrates, no matter how much talent you have.“

“If mentally you are thinking ‘white’ and I am thinking ‘black,’ and we have to play with a red ball, but neither of us wants to yield, it means we aren’t complementary. Individualism and egocentrism generate a very large negative impact. We all row to reach the shore and save ourselves; it can’t be that one rows right and another rows left, leaving us in the high seas until a wave drowns us,” Alvanezzi concluded.

Stress: the invisible enemy of athletes

As in any high-performance discipline, stress management has become one of the defining challenges in modern soccer, a sport that has seen its fixture calendar grow to near-unsustainable levels. “Players today have an enormous match load. They play 80, 90, 100 matches a year. In my era, that didn’t exist. And that carries an enormous physical, mental, and psychological toll, which is one of the many reasons why footballers get injured. Everything is connected. And if the head isn’t right, the body will never be right,” Alvanezzi stated.

With stress affecting muscles, tendons and bones alike, conventional metrics like GPS data and weight measurements become meaningless when the mental aspect is ignored, he argues. “A player will always tell you they are at 100%. I liked, and I still like, for the player to train at 50% or 60%. If a kid trains at 100% five days a week and then tries to play at 200% on the weekend, they end up getting hurt. Sooner or later. It’s a universal law.“

These pressures are not confined to the professional game, extending deep into the youth system as well. “Let’s take away the weights, take away the GPS, work more on the mental side, and talk to the footballer. When a footballer tells you they want to stay 60 minutes longer after training… ‘No. Go home. Rest. Eat well. Take a nap. Look after yourself. Read, watch a movie. Relax. Do yoga. Meditate.’ But for all of that, you have to talk, and you have to be prepared,” he stated.

Alvanezzi also addressed the lack of preventive awareness he has observed at the youth level: “That’s why I like it when a player comes and tells me: ‘This and that is happening to me.’ ‘Don’t worry. You’re not playing this match; you’re going to train at 50%.’ I’d rather give you two weeks of rest than have it be six months of forced leave due to a ligament tear. Today, there is no prevention because we, the developers, aren’t prepared to prevent; we are competitive, egocentric beings who want to win everything, forgetting that we don’t play anymore.“

U.S. soccer and MLS evolution: the legacy of 1994

Through friends living and working in the United States, and despite acknowledging that his English is far from perfect, Alvanezzi has been able to witness a genuine transformation in the country’s soccer culture, one he traces directly back to the 1994 World Cup, when MLS was widely seen as nothing more than a retirement league. That perception, he says, has been thoroughly dismantled.

“Today, football in the US—I’m not saying it competes head-to-head with baseball, basketball, or ice hockey—but it has gained a very prominent position. It’s no coincidence that Lionel Messi, the most emblematic figure in world football today, is playing in MLS. Players who before, as you said, came perhaps for a final retirement to spend their last seasons in a low-caliber competition, find it’s a different world now. It has grown so much that renowned players prefer to come to MLS rather than go to a country in the Middle East or Asia.“

While acknowledging that MLS remains a league in the midst of its evolution, Alvanezzi offered a measured timeline for when it could fully establish itself at the highest level. “The evolution in terms of the training and qualification of the coaches and developers is very good. I have excellent references. Like any expanding football in a developmental stage, I think it will take them another 5 to 10 years to consolidate. It usually takes 10 to 15 years for a major league to stabilize and reach an international competitive level. They are currently in that developmental process from every point of view,” he stated.

The influence of Latinos in U.S. soccer

Once considered a secondary destination for professional development, the United States has transformed into a country that offers genuine, high-level opportunities for coaches and developers alike. That growth has been driven in part by soccer’s surging popularity, the influence of the Latino community, and high-profile figures like Lionel Messi and David Beckham, who have brought the sport to new audiences across the country.

“There are many Latinos and Argentines working in development at important clubs and academies. It is expanding in a very interesting way. They take the culture they don’t have—they are very pragmatic in that sense. Whatever they lack, they acquire it. Don’t ask me how, but they go after it. If they don’t have a qualified scientist, they go find one in Germany, Norway, or Sweden and bring them to their country to make it evolve. They do exactly the same with soccer.“

For youth coaches specifically, the shift in available resources has been nothing short of transformative. “They start from the foundation: youth development. And because of their immense purchasing power as a nation, they can leverage incredible infrastructure. Being in an academy there—even one not affiliated with a famous MLS club—means having 4, 5, or 6 pitches to train on. They have indoor gyms for “fast football” when the weather is bad. Material in abundance. For a developer like me, who dealt with hardships starting out in Argentina—not in terms of talent, but in terms of equipment and structure—imagine what that solves.“

Despite being sidelined for three matches, Mbappe enjoyed a prolific run in European play, netting a staggering 13 goals in just seven games during the league phase. Those historic numbers immediately put the Frenchman on a trajectory to shatter every existing record had Real Madrid managed a deeper run toward the final.

His availability in the knockout stages was limited, featuring only in the first leg of the playoff round against Benfica and the second leg of the Round of 16 against Manchester City after missing time with a knee sprain. After going scoreless in those earlier rounds, Mbappe regained his form in the quarterfinals against Bayern Munich, scoring once in each leg of the series.

His 42nd-minute strike at the Allianz Arena, assisted by Vinicius Junior, brought his tournament total to 15 goals. Although he shattered his previous personal bests of eight goals in the 2020-21 and 2023-24 campaigns, the premature exit effectively clipped Mbappe’s wings in his pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo’s ultimate milestone.

Messi left in the rearview

When it comes to pure finishing, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remain the competition’s historical benchmarks. However, Mbappe’s 2025-26 output has already eclipsed the greatest single-season effort produced by the Argentine and Barcelona legend.

By finding the net 15 times in 11 appearances, Mbappe surpassed Messi’s career-high for a single Champions League campaign. Messi’s most productive season came in 2011-12, when he scored 14 goals before Barcelona was eliminated by Chelsea in the semifinal stage.

Remarkably, Mbappe now joins an elite club alongside Karim Benzema and Robert Lewandowski, who both reached the 15-goal mark in a single season. Benzema achieved the feat in 12 matches during the 2021-22 campaign, while Lewandowski hit the number in just 10 games in 2019-20; notably, Mbappe is the first to do so under the competition’s revamped format.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s record remains safe

While Mbappe was on a torrid pace, the quarterfinal exit preserves both of the high-water marks set by Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese icon still holds the record for the most goals in a single Champions League edition, having scored 17 times in 11 games during the 2013-14 season.

Furthermore, Ronaldo also maintains the second-best mark in history, a 16-goal barrage across 12 games in 2015-16. Mbappe’s mid-season fitness issues, which saw him sidelined for three matches, proved to be missed opportunities to catch Ronaldo, whose records will remain untouched for at least one more year.

In the moments following the match against Barcelona — in which Los Colchoneros secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League semifinals — Griezmann gave an interview to CBS Sports, where Henry works as an analyst. That led to a rare on-air exchange between the two French icons.

“Antoine, Antoine, I have something to tell you: thank you for everything you have done for French soccer, the national team, and the game in general. You have given me a lot. I wish you all the best,” Henry began, recognizing the career Griezmann has put together.

But the 1998 World Cup champion did not only praise the 35-year-old forward for his past, he also turned his attention to the challenges ahead. “I hope you finish your time at Atletico Madrid well, and good luck in Orlando,” Thierry added. “I know MLS very well — anything you need regarding your time there, I’ll be happy to help.”

Henry made his mark in MLS

The current state of MLS — with an increasing number of high-profile, world-renowned players — was built on the gradual arrival of stars over the past decades. One of the first major names to move to the United States was Thierry Henry, who joined New York Red Bulls in 2010.

At the time, the French forward was 33 years old and arrived directly from Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona, giving the New York side a marquee addition. Henry spent five seasons there (with a brief loan spell at Arsenal in between), making 135 appearances, scoring 52 goals, and winning one Supporters’ Shield trophy along with two Eastern Conference titles.

Griezmann still has major challenges before MLS move

While Orlando City and MLS are surely already on Antoine Griezmann’s mind, he still has significant challenges ahead with Atletico Madrid that could provide a perfect ending to his time at the club.

This Saturday, Atletico Madrid will play the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad, aiming to win a title that has eluded the side since 2013. And as if that were not enough, the Champions League also awaits: Los Colchoneros will face Arsenal in the semifinals.

What stands out most about the French forward is how quickly he has climbed the rankings: Mbappe reached that mark at just 27 years and 116 days, surpassing the career totals of other legends such as Thomas Muller, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

That milestone puts Mbappe in direct competition with the two defining stars of this century, Messi and Ronaldo. They remain the top scorers in Champions League history, but Kylian is on track to seriously challenge their records.

At the same age Mbappe is now, neither Messi nor Ronaldo had reached 70 goals in the competition. At 27 years and 116 days, the Argentine forward had scored 68 Champions League goals, while the Portuguese star had just 38.

In terms of efficiency, Lionel Messi holds the edge. By the time he reached 68 goals, the then-Barcelona player had done so in 88 matches, averaging 0.77 goals per game. Mbappe follows with an average of 0.71, with 70 goals in 98 matches. Cristiano Ronaldo, at that same age, had scored 38 goals in 80 matches, for an average of 0.47.

All-time Champions League top scorers:

1- Cristiano Ronaldo – 140 goals

2- Lionel Messi – 129 goals

3- Robert Lewandowski – 109 goals

4- Karim Benzema – 90 goals

5- Raul Gonzalez – 71 goals

6- Kylian Mbappe – 70 goals

7- Thomas Muller – 57 goals

8- Erling Haaland – 57 goals

9- Ruud van Nistelrooy – 57 goals

10- Harry Kane – 51 goals

Mbappe makes history in Europe

Despite Real Madrid’s elimination against Bayern Munich, Kylian Mbappe still has plenty of reasons to be satisfied with his performances. He is, and very likely will remain, the top scorer in this edition of the UEFA Champions League with 15 goals in 11 matches.

Only three players had previously reached that total in a single edition of the tournament. Cristiano Ronaldo holds the all-time record, having done it three times, including the single-season mark of 17 goals. Robert Lewandowski and Karim Benzema have each reached 15 once.

However, this Wednesday the French forward achieved something that not even Ronaldo or Messi managed during their peak years in Europe. Mbappe became the only player in Champions League history to score 10 away goals in a single season — and he did it without even reaching the semifinals of the tournament, underlining his remarkable performance this campaign.

That strike allowed Guler to move into 13th place on the list of the fastest goals in Champions League history. The Turkish midfielder overtook Andreas Moller, who had held that spot since 1996 after scoring for Borussia Dortmund 36 seconds into a match against Juventus.

It is worth noting that this statistic only includes Champions League editions played since 1992, when UEFA adopted the current name — along with an expanded format — replacing the traditional European Cup.

Since then, the record for the fastest goal in the competition belongs to Roy Makaay, who scored after 10.12 seconds. Interestingly, that also came in a match between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, played in Germany in March 2007 during the Round of 16.

The podium is completed by Jonas, who scored after 10.96 seconds for Valencia against Bayer Leverkusen in 2011, and Gilberto Silva, who still holds third place thanks to his 20-second goal for Arsenal against PSV Eindhoven in 2002.

The fastest goals in Champions League history:

1- 10.12 seconds – Roy Makaay – Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid (2007)

2- 10.96 seconds – Jonas – Valencia vs Bayer Leverkusen (2011)

3- 20.07 seconds – Gilberto Silva – PSV Eindhoven vs Arsenal (2002)

4- 20.12 seconds – Alessandro Del Piero – Manchester United vs Juventus (1997)

5- 21.06 seconds – Clarence Seedorf – Schalke 04 vs AC Milan (2005)

6- 24 seconds – Alexandre Pato – AC Milan vs Barcelona (2011)

7- 25.02 seconds – David Alaba – Bayern Munich vs Juventus (2013)

8- 25.20 seconds – Marek Kincl – Rapid Vienna vs Club Brugge (2005)

9- 25.54 seconds – Dejan Stankovic – Inter Milan vs Schalke 04 (2013)

10- 27 seconds – Conor Gallagher – Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid (2025)

11- 28.21 seconds – Mariano Bombarda – Willem II vs Sparta Prague (1999)

12- 31 seconds – David Trezeguet – AS Monaco vs Manchester United (1998)

13- 34 seconds – Arda Guler – Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid (2026)

Guler also makes Real Madrid history

Arda Guler not only entered the Champions League record books, but also etched his name into Real Madrid history. The Turkish midfielder now owns the second-fastest goal in the club’s history in European competition.

According to sports statistics expert Mister Chip, only one Real Madrid player has scored faster in continental play: Rial, who has held the record since 1957 after scoring against Antwerp in 31 seconds. Guler now sits second with his 34-second goal, while the podium is completed by Felo, who scored against Juventus after 35 seconds in 1962.

According to Diario AS, UEFA is already reviewing those comments to determine whether the Brazilian winger deserves a sanction. If so, any punishment would only be served during his next appearance in European competition — most likely in the 2026-27 Champions League.

There are similar precedents that suggest an unfavorable outcome for Raphinha. During the 2018-19 season, UEFA sanctioned Neymar after he publicly criticized officiating following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League elimination against Manchester United.

“It’s a disgrace. They put four guys who don’t understand soccer to analyze a play,” Ney wrote at the time in a story on his official Instagram account. That led to a three-match suspension in European competitions for the Brazilian forward, which was later reduced to two by CAS.

Raphinha involved in another controversial incident

Despite not being able to play in the series against Atletico Madrid due to injury, Raphinha still drew attention for his actions after the match. In addition to his comments criticizing the officiating, the winger also made gestures toward opposing fans at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Several cameras captured the exact moment when Raphinha, on the pitch, gestured toward the crowd, signaling that Atletico Madrid would be eliminated in the next round of the Champions League. As in the previous case, there are precedents of players being sanctioned by UEFA for making gestures and directing offensive remarks at rival fans.

Raphinha apologizes to Atletico Madrid fans

Several hours after the final whistle — and likely with emotions having cooled — Raphinha reflected on his behavior at the Metropolitano Stadium and posted a message on his official Instagram account apologizing to Atletico Madrid fans.

“I apologize for my gesture, which does not reflect my values or my character. It was an act committed in a moment of tension, in response to a fan who was being disrespectful toward me,” the Barcelona star wrote.

Bukayo Saka won’t be featuring in the return leg against Sporting CP due to injury. The England international was widely expected to return for Saturday’s fixture against Bournemouth but failed to make the squad; his subsequent absence from Tuesday’s training session further dims the prospects of him playing a role in this continental decider.

Manager Mikel Arteta was noncommittal when asked if Saka or defender Jurrien Timber might return to the fold, offering only that “maybe one of them” could be involved. However, when pressed on the nature of the winger’s injury and its recent persistence, the Spaniard provided a bit more clarity for the worried Emirates faithful.

“It’s something that he was carrying for a while. It was an Achilles issue,” Arteta said. “It’s progression but hopefully it’s going to be a matter of days and not weeks. But he has to see when the load is more how he responds to that kind of progression,” he added.

Arsenal navigating a fitness crisis

Saka isn’t the only concern for a depleted Arsenal squad; Tuesday’s training session raised red flags regarding several other key contributors. Missing from the main group were midfield anchors Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, along with defender Riccardo Calafiori.

While Rice has reportedly recovered and should be available for selection, significant questions remain over whether Odegaard and Calafiori are fit enough to start. This personnel crunch may force Arteta to lean on his depth as he looks to defend a narrow 1-0 aggregate advantage in the Champions League clash.

Confirmed lineups for Arsenal and Sporting CP

Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): David Raya; Cristhian Mosquera, William Saliba, Gabriel, Piero Hincapie; Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli; Viktor Gyokeres.
Head coach: Mikel Arteta.

Sporting CP’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Rui Silva; Eduardo Quaresma, Ousmane Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Maximiliano Araujo; Morten Hjulmand, Hidemasa Morita; Geny Catamo, Francisco Trincao, Pedro Goncalves; Luis Javier Suarez.
Head coach: Rui Borges.

According to L’Equipe, Hugo Ekitike has suffered a torn Achilles tendon, ruling him out of the 2026 World Cup with France. As a result, the forward could be sidelined for 7–9 months, missing the first half of next season and possibly returning in top form by the end of the 2026–27 season. For this reason, the Reds have reportedly decided to accelerate their transfer plans for the summer of 2026, with Anthony Gordon as their target.

Following Mohamed Salah’s departure at the end of the season, the Reds had decided to pursue a winger, reportedly making Yan Diomande their top priority. Alongside the Ivorian, they have also targeted a striker, with Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United emerging as the main objective. However, Liverpool are also closely monitoring Jarrod Bowen, Harry Wilson, Iliman Ndiaye, and Bazoumana Touré, according to TEAMtalk.

Unlike Ekitike, Anthony Gordon is not a natural centre-forward, but he mainly excels as a left winger. However, the Englishman has shown the ability to perform in this role, making his arrival a strong possibility. In addition, he could also provide depth on the flanks once the Frenchman returns. For this reason, he would be an ideal fit for the squad, although his transfer could exceed $100 million.

Liverpool have already lost both of their starting forwards

Liverpool have not had success with their marquee attacking signings. After paying €240M (around $283M) for Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, both have suffered serious injuries in their first season at the club. While the Swede suffered a severe fibula fracture, the Frenchman suffered an Achilles tendon rupture, with both missing the chance to shine on the pitch in the Reds’ initial plan.

Even though Isak is back, he’ll need to get back into competitive form, as he hasn’t managed to shine under Arne Slot. With just a few games left to secure a spot in the 2026–27 Champions League, the Swede will get plenty of playing time as he looks to recapture the form that made him shine at Newcastle United. Alongside him, Rio Ngumoha will play a more prominent role on the team, as he has impressed and will be untransferable for next season, reports Football Insider.

Hugo Ekitike had been the Reds’ most efficient striker. After playing 45 games, the Frenchman had emerged as the team’s top scorer, netting 17 goals. As a result, the team will face a tough challenge in replacing him, so Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah must step up to contribute to the scoring effort. With nearly nine months of recovery time, the possible arrival of Anthony Gordon would be an interesting alternative.

The home side enters the match in dominant form, sitting at the top of the table and pushing for a long-awaited league title. A five-point lead and a remarkable winning streak have placed Al-Nassr in a commanding position, but the pressure remains intense with only a handful of matches left. Meanwhile, Al-Ettifaq arrives looking to disrupt the momentum despite inconsistent performances in recent weeks.

The stakes could hardly be higher as the league campaign approaches its decisive stretch. Al-Nassr has collected over 70 points and built one of the strongest attacking records in the competition, scoring freely while maintaining defensive stability. Its recent 2-0 victory over Al-Akhdoud reinforced its credentials as the team to beat.

Al-Ettifaq, on the other hand, finds itself in a very different situation. Sitting seventh with mixed results, the team has struggled for consistency, including a recent 3-2 defeat that exposed defensive vulnerabilities. Despite that, their ability to challenge stronger opponents keeps this fixture unpredictable.

Will Ronaldo play?

As anticipation built, the focus inevitably shifted to whether Ronaldo would feature in such a crucial match. Cristiano Ronaldo will start and lead the attack, adding firepower to the lineup. The Portuguese partnership between Ronaldo and Joao Felix has added creativity and finishing power in the final third.

The Portuguese forward returned from a recent hamstring injury in sharp form, scoring three goals in his last two appearances. His tally of 24 league goals and an astonishing 968 career goals underline his continued influence, even at this stage of his career. What’s more, he needs six more goals to surpass Mohammed Al-Sahlawi and become Al-Nassr’s all-time top goalscorer in the Saudi Pro League.

Both sides enter the match with important squad updates that could influence the outcome. Al-Nassr will be without Angelo Gabriel after a fitness setback, while the return of Inigo Martinez strengthens the defensive options.

Al-Nassr vs Al-Ettifaq: Confirmed lineups

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-3-3): Bento; Martinez, Al Amri, Simakan, Boushal; Brozovic, Al Khaibari, Felix; Mane, Ronaldo, Coman.

Al-Ettifaq confirmed XI (5-3-2): Rodak; Radi, Khateem, Jack, Calvo, Nkota; Duda, Medran; Wijnaldum; Al Ghannam; Dembele.

The connection between father and son has long fascinated soccer supporters. From training habits to playing style, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is steadily building his own identity while reflecting elements of one of the game’s greatest players. His journey through the academy system is being followed closely, especially as moments of brilliance begin to surface more frequently.

A recent video shared online sparked widespread excitement among fans. According to the viral 44-second clip circulating on social media, the teenager delivered a standout performance in a youth match. The clip, filmed during a night game, showcases the young talent in a competitive setting against Al-Fayha at youth level.

The short video offers glimpses of attacking movements, quick decision-making, and composure in front of the goal. It also reinforces the growing narrative that Ronaldo’s legacy could continue through his son’s progress within the same soccer environment.

Watch Ronaldo Jr.’s standout performance vs Al-Fayha

In fact, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. scored a hat-trick in a 4-3 victory for Al-Nassr U-16, delivering a decisive contribution in a tightly contested game. As can be seen, one of the goals came from a direct free-kick, adding another layer to the performance.

Beyond the goals themselves, the celebration that followed captured just as much attention. He recreated his father’s iconic ‘siu’ celebration, a moment that resonated strongly with fans familiar with Ronaldo’s trademark style. The resemblance in both execution and confidence added to the sense of déjà vu surrounding the performance.

Growing under the spotlight

At 15 years old in 2026, Ronaldo Jr. is still in the early stages of his soccer journey. Fans highlighted how he seems to be gradually shaping his own identity while still mirroring key traits of his father. From movement off the ball to finishing instinct, the parallels between the two are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr has clearly created an environment where his son is not only developing as a player but also growing within a global spotlight. Every performance is now viewed through the lens of legacy and expectation.

His contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and no renewal has been agreed, placing him among the most high-profile free agents potentially available. Despite receiving offers from abroad, his preference has been to remain in Italy and continue competing at the highest level.

Reports from Italy suggest that Dybala is seriously considering a move to Milan. According to Corriere dello Sport, the Argentine forward is willing to accept a significant salary reduction in order to join the club, underlining his desire to make the move happen.

Further reports reinforce the same idea, pointing to Dybala’s admiration for the opportunity to play at San Siro. Calciomercato notes that he could even accept a performance-based contract due to his recent injury history, reflecting a pragmatic approach to negotiations. His priority remains staying competitive in Europe, even as other options emerge.

The factor behind a possible move

While the prospect of the 32-year-old forward joining Milan is gaining attention, there is a key condition shaping the situation. The report adds that much depends on the future of Rafael Leao, whose role and consistency have come under scrutiny this season. His performances have been affected by tactical changes and fitness issues, leading to growing debate among supporters.

Milan faces a difficult decision regarding Leao, who remains one of the club’s most valuable assets. A potential departure would create both the financial space and tactical need for a player like Dybala, making the connection between the two situations impossible to ignore. Without that shift, any move becomes far more complicated.

Milan’s bigger transfer picture

The club is already exploring ways to reshape its attack ahead of the summer. Multiple names, including high-profile forwards like Robert Lewandowski and Dusan Vlahovic, have been linked as the Rossoneri evaluate how to strengthen their frontline, particularly with Champions League qualification still uncertain. Financial considerations continue to play a major role in every decision.

The uncertainty around Pulisic also adds another layer to the equation. While he remains an important figure, his recent form has been inconsistent, and the club is assessing its options carefully. A potential arrival like Dybala could either complement or complicate the existing structure.

The season began with promise, as Milan found rhythm and attacking fluidity in the early months. Pulisic scored eight league goals between August and December, playing a central role in the team’s push near the top of the table. That early momentum, however, has faded as the campaign entered a more demanding phase.

The turn of the year has brought a dramatic shift in the Americans’ performances. He has not scored a competitive goal in 2026 and is currently enduring a drought of more than 100 days, a statistic that has raised concerns inside the club. Injuries have played their part, disrupting his consistency and limiting his overall impact in key matches.

Milan’s broader struggles have only increased scrutiny on Pulisic and the attacking unit. A heavy 3-0 defeat highlighted the team’s inconsistency, with just two wins in the last five league matches putting its Champions League hopes under threat. Despite being among the more active attackers on the pitch, Pulisic has found it difficult to influence decisive moments.

His inability to convert chances has mirrored the team’s struggles, contributing to a slide down the table at a crucial stage of the season. The Serie A giant remains in contention for a top-four finish, but the margin for error is shrinking. Upcoming fixtures are now seen as pivotal, both for Milan’s ambitions and for Pulisic’s future at San Siro.

Milan’s reported asking price revealed

As speculation grows, attention has shifted to Milan’s stance on a potential transfer. According to Il Giornale, Milan would consider offers in the region of $65 million for Pulisic. With just one year remaining on his contract worth approximately $5.5 million per season, the Italian outfit is under pressure to make a decision.

Selling the 27-year-old winger could generate significant funds to reinvest in the squad, especially if Champions League qualification is not secured. At the same time, the club must weigh the loss of a high-profile player who has played a key role in its recent rebuild.

Premier League interest gathers pace

The report adds that interest from England continues to gather momentum as two major clubs monitor the situation closely. Liverpool is reportedly exploring attacking reinforcements, while Tottenham views Pulisic as part of a potential rebuild. Both clubs see an opportunity to secure a proven player who has already experienced the demands of top-level soccer.

His revived reputation after leaving England, combined with his versatility and experience, makes him an attractive option despite recent struggles. The financial strength of Premier League sides means that meeting Milan’s valuation may not be a major obstacle. The key question is whether that interest will translate into a formal offer in the coming months.

This Tuesday, Santos drew 1-1 against Recoleta FC in the Copa Sudamericana group stage and, after the final whistle, some people at Urbano Caldeira Stadium booed the Brazilian forward, who responded with gestures asking them to be quiet.

“I’m going to give you your minute of fame. Am I spoiled? I’m giving absolutely everything out here and you don’t respect that,” Ney said to one of the fans who criticized him. He then took aim at the fan’s physical appearance: “You should train more! You’re getting a little chubby!”

A few minutes after that tense exchange, Neymar gave an interview to ESPN in which he addressed his confrontation with the fans in the stands. “I understand fans who criticize our play, but when it becomes personal and they attack me in a different way, I can’t accept it,” he said.

“I can’t accept it because I’m a very consistent guy. I give my life for soccer and for this club. I even do more than I should, so they can’t treat me like this,” added the 34-year-old star. “I’m not saying they shouldn’t criticize my performances on the field, but I don’t accept criticism for what I do off it.”

Santos struggling to find direction

The fans’ animosity toward Neymar, while surprising, is understandable given that the team’s recent results have fallen well short of expectations. After avoiding relegation in the final matches of last year, they entered this season with hopes of competing for trophies, but so far that has not been the case.

In the Brazilian Serie A, Santos are in 15th place with just three wins in 11 matches, only three points clear of the relegation zone. Their Copa Sudamericana campaign has also been underwhelming: they lost their opener against Deportivo Cuenca and drew their second match against Recoleta FC, leaving them at the bottom of Group D for now.

Neymar needs to stand out at Santos

Santos’ slow start to the season certainly does not help Neymar. He has two months to try to show Carlo Ancelotti that he is in peak physical and competitive condition to be part of the 26-man roster that will represent Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Individually, however, he has shown consistent form. So far in 2026, Ney has recorded eight appearances for Santos, with seven goal contributions (four goals and three assists). Those are solid numbers, especially considering the difficult team context, which has included a recent coaching change.

Bayern Munich have proven to be one of the best teams in the world. Led by Harry Kane and Manuel Neuer, they have dominated their opponents throughout the season. In addition, coach Vincent Kompany welcomes back Serge Gnabry, who claims to be in peak physical condition and will be key to organizing the offense. However, they will face a tough challenge defensively, as los Blancos already exploited their spaces in the first leg with Vinícius Jr. and Mbappé.

The German side dominated much of the first leg, but they suffered a drop in performance after substituting Serge Gnabry and Konrad Laimer, as they were the ones leading and supporting the attack. As a result, both are expected to start and play key roles in pressing Real Madrid, who will be without Aurélien Tchouaméni—forcing coach Álvaro Arbeloa to adjust the midfield, a very tough challenge for the second leg.

Los Blancos will have to make changes to their starting lineup, as Tchouaméni’s absence is significant. Therefore, coach Arbeloa is reportedly set to deploy Federico Valverde as a defensive midfielder, as Eduardo Camavinga did not fully convince with his performance against Girona FC. In addition, Jude Bellingham could play a crucial role, as he impressed in the first leg and appears to be back in top form after his physical issues.

How could Real Madrid’s win against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

In case Real Madrid secure a victory over Bayern Munich, they would not immediately guarantee a place in the 2025–26 Champions League semifinals. Trailing by just one goal in the aggregate score, Los Blancos need to win by a two-goal margin against the German side to advance. Should they accomplish this, they would face PSG, another top contender for the title, as they pursue their second consecutive Champions League victory.

How could Real Madrid’s draw against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

Holding just one-goal margin in the overall score, Real Madrid would be directly eliminated of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League in case they draw against Bayern Munich. For that reason, the German side would be getting a ticket for the semifinals, for a second consecutive season, facing PSG in one of the best clashes, as both have been dominating.

If Los Blancos clinch a victory by a one-goal margin, they would level the aggregate score, opening the door to compete for a place in the next round of the tournament. As this is the second leg, a winner would have to be decided in extra time, with two periods of 15 minutes each. If there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where a definitive winner would to face PSG.

How could Real Madrid’s defeat against Bayern affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

Having failed to secure a decisive victory in the first leg, Real Madrid would be eliminated from the 2025-26 Champions League if they lose to Bayern Munich. For that reason, los Blancos would go two seasons without reaching the tournament’s semifinals—something that hasn’t happened since 2020, when they were eliminated in the round of 16 for two consecutive seasons. Meanwhile, the German side returns to this stage after a two-year absence.

Barcelona arrived at the Metropolitano needing a response against Atletico Madrid after the first-leg setback. The start could hardly have been more promising, with Yamal inspiring belief by striking early and setting the tone for a frantic opening.

The team surged forward with confidence, and the deficit was erased during an electric first half. However, the momentum shifted after the break, as Atletico regained control and ultimately secured a 3-2 aggregate victory, ending the Catalans’ European hopes.

Yamal’s influence was evident from the opening seconds, as he tested the goalkeeper almost immediately before finding the net. His energy and creativity helped Hansi Flick’s side push to the brink of a famous turnaround, but the effort proved insufficient in the end.

As the match wore on, fatigue crept in, and control slipped away. The host capitalized on key moments, and a late red card further complicated Barcelona’s task, sealing a defeat that will linger.

What did Lamine Yamal say on social media?

In the aftermath, Yamal addressed the defeat with a message that reflected both realism and ambition. “We gave it our all, but it wasn’t enough. This is just part of the journey: to reach the top, you have to climb, and we know it won’t be easy, nor will they make it easy for us. But giving up is not an option.”

His words struck a balance between acknowledging the setback and reinforcing belief in the future. The tone suggested a player already thinking beyond the immediate disappointment. The 18-year-old’s message did not stop at reflection, as he also looked ahead with determination.

“We have plenty of reasons to be hopeful, and we’re going to go all out for them. Every mistake is a lesson, and rest assured, we’ll learn from each one.” He then delivered a statement that resonated deeply with supporters. “We are Barca, and we’ll be back where we belong. My parents taught me that a man’s word is his bond… and we’ll bring that to Barcelona.”

Moment of maturity despite disappointment

What stood out after the final whistle was not frustration, but composure. Instead of retreating into disappointment, Yamal remained on the pitch, moving from teammate to teammate in a show of support.

The image of the 18-year-old consoling others, including more experienced players, captured a different kind of leadership. It was a clear sign of maturity, as he chose unity over individual frustration in a difficult moment.

Ranked third in the world and placed on a favorable path in the bracket, the national team once again looks like a serious contender aiming for a third world title. With stars like 2018 World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and 2025 Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele leading the charge, belief inside the camp remains strong.

The national team arrives with a blend of experience and attacking firepower that few can match. N’Golo Kante has returned to orchestrate play from midfield, while the defensive core brings years of elite European experience into the tournament. This generation believes it has unfinished business on the world stage, especially after coming so close in Qatar.

That confidence has now been shaken by a major setback. Ekitike suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during a Champions League clash between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, an injury that immediately raised fears about his availability.

The devastating blow confirmed

The uncertainty surrounding the striker has soon turned into confirmation of the worst possible outcome. “Carried off on a stretcher… Hugo Ekitike suffered a rupture of his right Achilles tendon,” reported L’Equipe, leaving little room for optimism. As per the report, the injury immediately rules him out of the 2026 World Cup and potentially sidelines him for seven to nine months.

The incident occurred during a high-stakes clash between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, where the striker collapsed without contact. “It doesn’t look good for Hugo. It’s especially difficult for him because you never want to get injured, especially at this time of the season,” admitted the Reds’ boss Arne Slot, reflecting the mood inside the club.

What this means for France’s tactical setup

France’s attacking structure has been one of its greatest strengths, blending pace, creativity, and finishing quality. Ekitike had emerged as a valuable option, contributing 17 goals in 45 appearances at club level and earning his place in the national team setup. His absence forces the coaching staff to rethink rotations and attacking combinations ahead of the tournament.

Despite the setback, France still enters the competition with strong depth and experience. The team remains on a favorable path in the tournament draw, avoiding early clashes with giants like Spain and Argentina. However, maintaining squad fitness and adapting to injuries will now be even more critical for Didier Deschamps and his squad.

Who steps into the spotlight?

Since it’s safe to say that Ekitike is officially ruled out, attention now turns to who could fill the void in the national team. According to Le Parisien, Randal Kolo Muani has emerged as the leading candidate to take his place, largely due to the trust he maintains within the coaching staff. His international experience could prove decisive despite mixed club form.

Other options remain firmly in contention. Christopher Nkunku offers versatility and technical quality, while Jean-Philippe Mateta has impressed with his efficiency in limited appearances for the national team. Each brings a different profile, leaving the final decision open as the tournament approaches.

Match Overview

League leaders Al Nassr enter this matchup determined to keep their grip on first place, riding strong form and relying on the firepower of Cristiano Ronaldo to extend their winning run. Standing in their way is Al Ittifaq, currently seventh with 42 points, a side eager to turn an inconsistent campaign into a defining moment with a marquee upset.

With the title contenders focused on maintaining momentum and the underdogs hungry to disrupt the race, this showdown shapes up as a must-watch battle—be sure to tune in and catch every minute of the action.

Raphinha had been one of the most significant absentees for Barcelona after picking up an injury during the March international break with Brazil, ruling him out of both legs against Atletico. Although he traveled to Madrid with his teammates to show his support, he made his feelings about the officiating crystal clear when addressing the media in the mixed zone.

“This match was a robbery. The refereeing had many issues; the decisions he made are unbelievable. Atletico committed I don’t know how many fouls, and the referee didn’t show them a single yellow card. I really want to understand his fear of Barca actually making it through the tie,” Raphinha said.

Among the most consequential decisions that went against the Blaugrana were the red cards shown to Pau Cubarsi in the first leg and Eric Garcia in the second, though both dismissals left little room for argument, with each player having fouled as the last man.

One of the more contentious moments from the first leg arose when Marc Pubill appeared to handle the ball after Juan Musso restarted play from a goal kick, only for the officials to wave away the appeals on the grounds that the ball was not yet in play. On the foul count, Atletico committed 15 compared to Barcelona’s eight in the second leg, yet the Colchoneros escaped without a single yellow card on the night.

For Raphinha, the accumulation of those decisions across both matches points to something more than isolated errors. “It was tough, especially when you see that you have to put in triple the effort just to win the match. I understand making a mistake in one match, but in two consecutive games?” the Brazilian added.

Musso responds to Raphinha

Raphinha’s pointed comments did not take long to make their way around the mixed zone, and Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso was given the chance to respond. The Argentine, who was outstanding across both legs, was having none of it.

“You can’t talk about a robbery. I understand what anyone might say. I respect everyone’s opinion, but let’s not frame the series as if it were a robbery, because that wasn’t the case. We won it on the pitch; we won 2-0 away. Being the last man in football is a red card, unfortunately,” Musso said, directly addressing the dismissals of Cubarsi and Garcia.

Having made seven saves in each leg, Musso was a central figure in Atletico’s progression through the Champions League quarterfinals, and he made a point of acknowledging the quality of the opponent while firmly rejecting Raphinha’s characterization. “They are a team we respect a lot and one that truly motivates us to play against. They are a great team, but I think talking about a robbery is madness,” he concluded.

Match Overview

The decisive second leg of this hard-fought quarterfinal is set to deliver, and the opening chapter lived up to expectations. Tigres UANL capitalized on home-field advantage in the first leg, securing a commanding 2-0 win that gives them a clear edge heading into the return matchup.

Still, the job isn’t finished, and Tigres will need a composed, disciplined performance away from home to punch their ticket to the semifinals. Meanwhile, the Seattle Sounders are banking on a bounce-back showing in front of their fans, confident that a strong home performance can flip the script after a difficult start to the series.

Players immediately reacted, and concern spread as Fermin Lopez went down in visible discomfort. As the game briefly slowed, the atmosphere shifted inside the Atletico Madrid half, with medical attention required on the pitch. Early signs suggested a facial injury, but the full extent was still unclear at that stage.

The situation came at a crucial moment in a tightly contested match, with both sides fighting for control and momentum. Barcelona is already leading 2-1 at half-time, but the intensity of the encounter only increased after the stoppage.

What happened between Fermin Lopez and Juan Musso

The incident involving Fermin Lopez and Juan Musso occurred during a high ball into the Atletico Madrid penalty area, when an accidental collision led to a serious-looking injury. In the challenge, the Spaniard suffered a cut and suspected nasal impact, with immediate concern raised on the pitch.

Medical staff rushed in as heavy bleeding from the face area was visible, forcing a brief stoppage in play while the situation was assessed. There were early suggestions of a possible substitution with Marcus Rashford ready to step in. Barcelona players surrounded the scene as tension grew, while Atletico defenders stepped back during the treatment.

Given the visible blood and impact, officials also urged caution, as the images from the moment may be sensitive for some viewers. Unofficial and early reports indicate he suffered a heavy blow to the face (including a possible nose injury), with blood streaming as he left the immediate action for treatment.

Despite the alarming nature of the clash, early indications pointed to an accidental contact rather than intentional foul play, with the focus now on Fermin Lopez’s condition and recovery after the incident. Eventually, he didn’t go off and continued playing.

According to multiple reports in Italy, Allegri has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the national team should Giovanni Malago secure the presidency of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). This scenario has gained traction quickly, especially after strong backing from Serie A clubs ahead of the upcoming election.

The situation is fluid, but “Allegri will become the favorite to become the next Italy national team head coach if the former CONI President is elected”, Calciomercato’s Daniele Longo revealed on X (formerly Twitter). That possibility has placed Milan in a delicate position, with its current manager suddenly at the center of a national rebuild.

What are Allegri’s reported demands to stay?

The uncertainty surrounding Allegri’s future is tied closely to his expectations from the club. At Milan, his position is far from settled. The club has suffered a dip in form in Serie A, with two consecutive defeats raising concerns about Champions League qualification and long-term direction. This has created friction between coaching expectations and transfer planning.

The coach is frustrated with the recruitment strategy, particularly the lack of defensive reinforcements and inconsistency in squad depth, La Gazzetta dello Sport adds. One internal concern is that the hierarchy’s inability to strengthen key areas has directly affected performance levels and tactical flexibility.

The tension has also created a scenario where the 58-year-old boss’ future depends heavily on guarantees. As outlined in La Gazzetta dello Sport’s report, he is expected to demand greater decision-making power over transfers if he remains beyond the season, especially if the club secures a top-four finish.

Allegri’s ‘what if’ clause and how his possible exit route could affect Pulisic

The situation has reached a point where multiple outcomes are being considered inside the club. Allegri’s contract could extend under normal conditions, but that extension is reportedly tied to performance and alignment with management expectations.

If disagreements over transfer policy continue, a potential separation between Allegri and Milan cannot be ruled out, particularly if a national team offer becomes concrete. Italy’s interest adds another layer, giving him an alternative path that avoids the day-to-day pressure of club action.

This uncertainty inevitably affects players like Christian Pulisic, who has become an important figure in Milan’s attacking setup since moving to the San Siro in 2023. However, his recent form has reflected the wider inconsistency of the team, with 2026 goalscoring output fluctuating as the club struggles to maintain rhythm in front of goal.

Within the squad, questions are being asked about attacking balance, chance creation, and finishing efficiency. A coaching change or tactical reset could directly influence Pulisic’s role and output, especially if Allegri’s system evolves or if a new manager arrives with different ideas.

The club has placed itself at the summit of the table after a dominant campaign, showing authority in both attack and results. The margin at the top provides confidence, yet the title is not secured, and every remaining match carries weight.

From the opening months, Jorge Jesus’ side has established itself as the most consistent side in the league. With 73 points from 28 matches, the Knight of Najd leads the standings with a five-point cushion over Al-Hilal and a further seven-point gap to Al-Ahli, placing it firmly in control.

The numbers highlight a campaign driven by attacking firepower and resilience. A record of 24 wins and a goal difference of +57 underlines the club’s dominance, making it the benchmark for the rest of the league. However, dominance alone does not guarantee silverware, especially with six matches still to play.

What it will take for Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr to become champion

The key figure in this title race is 87 points. That number represents the maximum total Al-Hilal can reach if it wins all six of its remaining matches (68 + 18 = 86). Therefore, for Al-Nassr to guarantee the title regardless of other results, it must surpass that total.

Currently, Al-Nassr needs 14 points from its remaining six matches to mathematically secure the title, a total that would take it beyond the maximum possible tally of its closest rival. This would take the team to 87 points, making it unreachable.

There are multiple ways to reach that number, each carrying its own level of risk:

• Five wins = 15 points (more than enough)
• Four wins and two draws = 14 points
• Four wins, one draw, and one loss = 13 points (not guaranteed)

Anything less than 14 points opens the door for Al-Hilal to potentially overtake Cristiano Ronaldo’s side. The road to the title is far from straightforward, with several challenging fixtures ahead. Matches against teams like Al-Ettifaq, Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, and a crucial showdown with Karim Benzema‘s side will test the club’s resolve.

Three different scenarios

Scenario 1: Al-Nassr takes care of business

If Jorge Jesus’ players win at least five of their last six matches, the title is theirs; simple as that. Even four wins and two draws would be enough. Given their current form, 24 wins in 28 matches and a +57 goal difference, this is a very realistic outcome.

Scenario 2: Slips open the door

If Al-Nassr drops points, especially through defeats, the pressure shifts. For example, if it collects 12-13 points, it could finish on 85-86 points. That would allow Al-Hilal to catch or surpass it if the latter wins all remaining matches. In this case, goal difference could even come into play, although Al-Nassr currently has a strong edge.

Scenario 3: Rivals drop points

Al-Nassr may not even need the full 14 points if the club’s two rivals stumble. If Al-Hilal loses or draws even once, its maximum total drops below 86. That reduces the number of points Al-Nassr need to secure the title.

For instance, if Al-Hilal drops three points (one loss), its maximum becomes 83. Al-Nassr would then only need 11 more points to guarantee first place. The same applies to Al-Ahli, who are slightly further back but still mathematically in the race.

“Ancelotti brings us many good things,” Filipe Luis said during a conference organized by Conmebol this week, according to Diario AS. “There are no guarantees we’ll win anything, but it’s the best that could have happened.”

The former Atletico Madrid defender pointed to the timing of Ancelotti’s arrival to take over the national team. In mid-2025, Brazil were coming off a heavy loss to Argentina in Buenos Aires and, with four matches remaining in the South American qualifiers, had not yet secured their place in the World Cup.

Carlo Ancelotti delivered the results needed to achieve that goal and has since used every FIFA break to shape a team that had struggled to meet expectations since the departure of Tite after the 2022 World Cup at Qatar.

Filipe Luis believes in Brazil’s chances

The general consensus among fans and analysts lists Spain, France and Argentina as the top favorites to win the 2026 World Cup. Despite being the most successful national team in the competition’s history, Brazil are not placed in that top tier, but rather in a second group alongside other powerhouses such as Germany, England and Portugal.

However, Filipe Luis warned those who might count Brazil out of the title race. “Brazil will always be one of the favorites, even when things aren’t going well,” said the former Flamengo manager, extending that view to Argentina as well.

To support his confidence in Ancelotti’s squad, Filipe Luis pointed to the team’s individual talent: “People don’t believe Brazil can win. But if you look at the five best players in the world, we have two: Raphinha and Vini Jr.”

Brazil’s path in the 2026 World Cup

Brazil are in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will open their campaign on June 13 against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, before traveling to Philadelphia six days later to face Haiti. Their final group-stage match will be on June 24 in Miami against Scotland.

If everything goes as expected and Carlo Ancelotti’s side finish top of the group, they will advance to the Round of 16, where they would face the runner-up of Group F — made up of Netherlands, Japan, Sweden and Tunisia — in Houston on June 29.

Boasting nine saves and 1.05 goals prevented according to SofaScore, Neuer earned Man of the Match honors in the opening leg as Bayern secured a gritty 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite holding a narrow aggregate lead, the World Cup winner remains wary of a trademark Real Madrid comeback.

Speaking to the media during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, Neuer was quick to downplay Bayern’s upper hand: “The only advantage is that we have a (one-goal) lead, but it’s Real Madrid; it is a very tough challenge. We are fortunate to play the second leg at home, and we have confidence in the fans. We are very motivated and prepared. It’s a good situation to be in… but we must be careful, as we’ve seen in the past how Real Madrid can win.“

Real Madrid enter the fixture following a 1-1 draw against Girona on Friday, a result that leaves them trailing La Liga leaders Barcelona by nine points. With only seven games remaining in the domestic campaign, the Champions League likely represents their final path to avoiding a trophyless 2025-26 season.

Asked if Bayern is wary of a desperate and motivated Madrid side, Neuer was candid. “Of course… we know this situation well. For a big club like Real Madrid, it’s a brutal thing. When you evaluate that situation, you know it can make you more dangerous. But I don’t want to think too much about their situation, only about us. About the run we’re on and the fact that we are still in every competition. And that is all we are thinking about,” he stated.

Neuer’s record vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid has evolved into one of Neuer’s primary antagonists in European play. The goalkeeper has faced them in four previous knockout ties, advancing only once back in the 2011-12 season while falling in the 2013-14, 2016-17, and 2023-24 campaigns. (While the clubs also met in 2017-18, Neuer was sidelined due to injury).

In nine career appearances against Madrid, Neuer holds a 3-5-1 record with 19 goals conceded. The 2016-17 series remains particularly etched in memory due to officiating controversies, a history Neuer subtly alluded to when noting he has seen “how Real Madrid can win.”

Neuer to decide future soon

Having turned 40 in March, questions regarding Neuer’s future have intensified as his contract expires at the end of the current season. Addressing his longevity, Neuer adopted a measured tone while suggesting a final call is imminent.

“The sooner I make the decision, the better. It won’t depend on the titles we win. But I haven’t decided anything yet, though it won’t take much longer,” he said. While rumors have swirled regarding a potential spot on Germany’s 2026 World Cup roster, the legend has already dismissed those claims, signaling that certain chapters of his storied career are indeed closing.

Match Overview

Back on home turf for their first Group A appearance in the tournament, Flamengo return to Maracanã Stadium with momentum after securing a hard-fought 2-0 result at altitude in Cusco, a performance that underlined their ability to handle difficult conditions early in the Copa Libertadores.

Meanwhile, Independiente Medellin head into this matchup looking to build on a 1-1 draw against Estudiantes de La Plata, knowing that points will be tough to come by in Rio as Group A rapidly shapes into one of the most demanding sections of the competition, where every result could define the race to advance.

Match Overview

Corinthians opened group-stage play in strong fashion, delivering a 2-0 win over Platense to climb atop Group F as the only side to claim all three points on Matchday 1, and now Timao turn their focus to building momentum with another result despite a tougher challenge ahead.

Independiente Santa Fe, meanwhile, settled for a home draw against Peñarol in their opener—a result that arguably favored the visitors—and arrives in Brazil under pressure, knowing there’s little margin for error as they push for a crucial road victory.

Needing to overturn a two-goal deficit from the start, Barcelona hit the ground running when Ferran Torres pounced on a mistake from Clément Lenglet and laid the ball into the path of Lamine Yamal, who slotted it through Juan Musso’s legs to open the scoring in the fourth minute. Torres then added a second in the 24th minute, bringing down Dani Olmo’s pass with a deft first touch before finishing to give the Blaugrana a 2-0 lead on the night and level the tie on aggregate.

With the game heading for extra time, Barcelona‘s hopes were dashed in the 31st minute when Marcos Llorente delivered a cross from the right and Lookman met it first time, restoring Atletico’s aggregate advantage with a sharp finish. The Blaugrana were unable to find another breakthrough in the second half, and their cause was dealt a further blow when Eric Garcia was shown a red card in the 79th minute, leaving Barcelona to exit the competition 3-2 on aggregate.

It marks Atletico’s first Champions League semifinal appearance since the 2016-17 season, when they faced Real Madrid at that stage. Diego Simeone’s side will now await the winner of the tie between Arsenal and Sporting CP, with the Gunners holding a 1-0 lead heading into the second leg of their quarterfinal.

Simply for reaching the Champions League semifinals, UEFA awards each club €15 million — approximately $17.6 million. While that alone represents a major boost for Europe’s top four teams, it is only part of the total revenue clubs generate from a deep run in the competition.

UEFA’s distribution system is made up of several components: participation bonuses, performance-based rewards, and milestone payments. As a result, each club’s total earnings vary depending on how far they advance and how they perform throughout the tournament.

The Champions League prize money structure

Each of the 36 clubs that participated in the UEFA Champions League league phase received a base payment of €18.62 million, roughly $22 million. From there, performance in that stage determines additional earnings.

During the league phase, teams earn an extra $2.48 million for each win and $0.83 million for each draw. That is why the top-performing team in that stage — Arsenal — collected $19.8 million from eight wins, bringing their total to nearly $42 million when combined with the base payment.

How much do clubs earn for advancing in the Champions League?

Once in the knockout stages, teams also receive payments based on their position in the standings. On top of that, there are additional bonuses for advancing through each round: $13 million for reaching the Round of 16 and $14.7 million for making the quarterfinals.

As mentioned, the semifinals are worth an additional $17.6 million. Reaching the final brings in $21.8 million, and winning it adds another $7.6 million. That title also grants access to the UEFA Super Cup, which can be worth up to $5.9 million more.

Finally, each club receives a “value pillar” payment tied to broadcasting rights and other commercial revenues related to the UEFA Champions League. The amount varies by club, based on a coefficient that considers performances over the past 10 years.

Taking all these factors into account, the Champions League winner this season could earn around €150 million (approximately $175 million) in total, combining performance-based prizes and commercial revenue.

Yamal capitalized on a mistake by Clement Lenglet in the 4th minute of the first half. The defender attempted a back pass to goalkeeper Juan Musso, but the young Spanish winger intercepted it. The loose ball fell to Ferran Torres, who set up Lamine for the game’s first goal.

With that early strike, Barcelona showed they are very much alive in the tie, cutting the deficit to just one goal with most of the match still to be played at the Metropolitano Stadium. That goal increased the tension and sloppiness from the hosts, who were far from the level they showed a week earlier at Camp Nou.

Ferran Torres scores the second

In the minutes following Yamal’s opener, Barcelona tightened their grip on the match, controlling possession and creating several chances to double their lead. It came in the 24th minute, when Dani Olmo set up Ferran Torres, who finished calmly with his left foot in a one-on-one against Musso.

Moments later, Hansi Flick’s side nearly found a third that would have put them ahead in the tie for the first time. Yamal delivered a superb pass to Fermin Lopez, whose header was tipped away by Musso, who then accidentally struck Lopez in the face on the follow-through.

Lookman pulls one back for Atletico Madrid

Conceding twice early was a heavy blow for Atletico Madrid, but they responded in time to regain control of the tie. After Fermin Lopez’s chance, the hosts answered with a quick attack that ended in a surging run down the right flank by Marcos Llorente.

The Spanish defender drove into the box and delivered a precise cross that found Ademola Lookman arriving at the far post. Lookman met it in front of goalkeeper Joan Garcia and scored to make it 2-1, restoring Atletico Madrid’s cushion.

The teenager’s rise is now being measured not just in moments, but in records that place him ahead of soccer’s most iconic figures. At the same time, the discussion around Messi and Ronaldo has resurfaced, with their early Champions League milestones offering context for just how unusual Yamal’s trajectory has become.

The second leg at the Metropolitano began with intensity, as Barcelona tried to overturn a first-leg deficit against Atletico Madrid. Early pressure brought immediate danger, with Yamal creating the first real opening inside the opening minute, forcing an early save from Jan Oblak’s replacement.

The breakthrough arrived quickly when the Spaniard finished a flowing move after a defensive error, putting the club ahead on the night. It was the teen star who calmly finished through the goalkeeper’s legs to silence the stadium.

Lamine Yamal breaks unprecedented Champions League record

Amid the tension, Lamine Yamal reached a historic milestone by becoming the youngest player ever to record 20 Champions League goal contributions (11 goals and nine assists). According to Squawka, he achieved this at just 18 years and 275 days old, a record that places him in a category no other teenager has reached.

Even more striking is the context: he achieved this milestone in just 32 matches and before turning 19, a feat that places him in uncharted territory. He also became the youngest player to reach 10+ goal contributions in a single Champions League campaign. Even in a high-pressure knockout tie, his involvement remained decisive, as seen in his assist and attacking influence throughout the match.

When Messi reached the milestone

For Lionel Messi, the journey to similar numbers came later in his development at Barcelona. He reached 20 Champions League goals at 22 years and 266 days old, requiring around 40 appearances to hit that mark. At that stage, the Argentine was still transitioning into a central attacking role, gradually evolving into the defining figure of his era.

When Cristiano Ronaldo reached the milestone

Cristiano Ronaldo’s progression in Europe followed a different path, taking longer in his early years at Manchester United before exploding at Real Madrid. He reached 20 Champions League goals at 24 years old, doing so in 56 matches.

Like Messi, Ronaldo’s early Champions League years were about adaptation and growth before his peak scoring phase arrived. His transformation into a record-breaking forward came later, after refining his role as a consistent goalscorer. That places the Barcelona teenager roughly three to five years ahead of two of the greatest players in Champions League history.

Match Overview

River Plate’s Copa Sudamericana campaign got off to a shaky start, falling short of expectations despite grinding out a 1-1 draw on the road against Blooming while playing nearly the entire match down to 10 men.

Given the mismatch on paper, the result raised concerns, and now the Argentine side turns its attention to a critical bounce-back opportunity against Carabobo. The Venezuelan club arrives with momentum after a 1-0 win over Bragantino in its opener and will aim to build on that result with a strong showing at the Monumental.

“Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano announced today his decision to step down as the Club’s head coach for personal reasons,” the club announced in a statement on its official website. “Mascherano departs the Club along with the coaching staff that arrived with him in January 2024.”

Mascherano’s departure comes as a surprise given the timing. Fewer than three months have passed since the start of the 2026 season, and there is still plenty left to play for, with Inter Miami still competing in MLS—currently sitting third in the Eastern Conference—and with the Leagues Cup yet to be played.

However, the Herons’ performances and results at the start of this year have fallen short of those in 2025. The early elimination against Nashville SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup was a major blow for the club, and their recent showings in league play have also been underwhelming.

Even so, Mascherano’s tenure at Inter Miami remains extremely positive overall. He led the club to its first MLS title last year, an achievement that had eluded them during Messi’s early years in the United States. In addition, they advanced to the knockout stages of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after defeating European giants Porto, in what stands as the most important victory in club history.

Mascherano explains his decision to step down from Inter Miami

In the same statement published on the club’s official website, Inter Miami shared comments from Javier Mascherano explaining the reasons behind his decision to leave the club in the middle of the 2026 season.

“I want to let everyone know that, for personal reasons, I have decided to end my tenure as head coach of Inter Miami CF,” began the Argentine coach. “I would like to thank the Club for the trust they placed in me… I also want to thank the fans and La Familia, because none of this would have been possible without them.”

On the impact Inter Miami have had on his life and career, he added: “I will always carry with me the memory of our first star, and wherever I am, I will continue to wish the Club all the best moving forward. I have no doubt that the Club will continue to achieve success in the future. Sending you all a big hug, and thank you for everything.”

Who will replace Mascherano at Inter Miami?

With Mascherano’s departure confirmed, Inter Miami’s priority now is to refocus on their MLS campaign. Regarding the team’s immediate future, the Herons provided details on the steps they will take to replace the Argentine coach.

“Guillermo Hoyos will assume the role of First Team head coach for the upcoming matches,” the club announced in the same statement. “Hoyos is a former professional footballer with more than 20 years of playing experience, as well as a coach and sporting director with extensive international experience in the football world.”

Hoyos was already part of the Florida side’s sporting structure: “Since joining Inter Miami CF, he has been responsible for overseeing and advancing the Club’s professional pathway development structure, while also serving as sporting director up to now.” For now, his first challenge will be an away match against Colorado Rapids on Saturday in MLS.

Arne Slot has decided to bench again Mohamed Salah for the Reds today. While the veteran is in top form to make a difference against PSG, the head coach has decided to bet for a different set-up. Without his goal-scoring ability and explosive pace needed, Liverpool are expecting to counting on Hugo Ekitike‘s scoring prowess.

Without the Egyptian, the Reds could rely on Hugo Ekitike, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Florian Wirtz in attack. With this setup, they could look to exploit PSG by targeting the large spaces in behind their defense. With this being the only competition they still aspire to win, Liverpool arrive fully motivated, opting for a high-risk approach—they have little to lose, but a lot to gain.

Paris Saint-Germain come in as clear favorites to secure their place in the Champions League semifinals. Not only did they dominate offensively, but they also disrupted any progression from the Reds through an intense high press. In addition, coach Luis Enrique keeps his entire roster intact, which could allow him to stick to a very similar game plan, aiming to maintain control throughout the match.

Liverpool lineup vs PSG

Liverpool face PSG with several players out of the squad. Coach Arne Slot will be without Alisson Becker, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Giovanni Leoni, Stefan Bajcetic, and Curtis Jones. Despite this, the Reds are banking on a comeback, counting on Hugo Ekitike and Dominik Szoboszlai to lead the offense, while Van Dijk and Gravenberch will be tasked with providing overall stability to the team.

The Reds will lineup as follows: Giorgi Mamardashvili; Jeremie Frimpong, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister; Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz; Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak.

PSG lineup vs Liverpool

Unlike the Reds, PSG arrive with few absences in their squad, with only Fabian Ruiz and Quentin Ndjantou out. As a result, coach Luis Enrique has most of his roster available, so he could stick to a similar approach: An attacking approach with high pressure. To that end, the presence of Desiré Doué will be key, as will Vitinha and João Neves, who effectively stifle Liverpool’s offense.

The French side will play as follows: Matvey Safonov; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Warren Zaire-Emery, Joao Neves; Desiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

“Being the head coach of a national team (Italy), I think that right now for me it would be a bit… I wouldn’t say boring, but there is quite a lot of free time between international breaks… I understand the criticism as well, also because it comes at a moment where, due to many circumstances, Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup three times. So that probably has a stronger influence,” Cesc Fabregas said, via EFE.

At just 38 years old, Cesc is already one of the most promising coaches. Not only does he implement an attractive style of play, but he also promotes young talent. With Italy seeking a generational overhaul, Fabregas emerged as the strongest option, as he knows Italian soccer very well, which would represent a major boost for young talents like Francesco Camarda and could even help convince Nicolò Tresoldi, who currently plays for Germany’s youth setup.

Far from pursuing a similar profile to Fàbregas, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) reportedly continues to prioritize Massimiliano Allegri, Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte. While they are world-class coaches, they tend not to favor young players, but rather experienced veterans. As a result, Italy may face challenges in achieving a generational transition—something they urgently need after failing to qualify for the World Cup for three consecutive tournaments.

Cesc Fàbregas set to stay at Como 1907, complicating Arsenal

Cesc Fàbregas has managed to push Como 1907 into contention for a place in European competitions. In addition, he is a shareholder in the club, which means he maintains a very close connection to the project. Amid uncertainty surrounding Mikel Arteta, Arsenal had reportedly set their sights on him as a potential replacement. However, the 38-year-old coach has admitted that he is very happy at the Italian side.

“I see it as difficult, honestly. I repeat, you never know in soccer. I’m very happy at Como, I hope to stay at Como, and I’ve lived soccer life as a player. When you start thinking too much about tomorrow, something is not right… I’m very attached to this project, to this city, to everything we are building… So, absolute calm, I’m very happy,” Fàbregas said, via EFE.

Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, Cesc could face a major challenge, as Real Madrid are reportedly aiming to bring back Nico Paz, the cornerstone of Como 1907. As a result, they may need to reshape their squad, seeking greater impact for the following season in European competitions. However, the Italian side appears well positioned to retain the Spanish coach, their greatest asset.

The stunning 2-0 defeat at Camp Nou sent shockwaves through the Barcelona fanbase, and the Blaugrana will be without Pau Cubarsi for the second leg after his red card in the 45th minute of the first leg. Atletico have also taken steps to gain any available edge at their own ground, with the state of the Metropolitano pitch already drawing a complaint from Barca coach Hansi Flick ahead of the match.

Barcelona head into the game on the back of a morale-boosting 4-1 win over Espanyol in the Catalan derby, while Atletico come in off a 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened Sevilla, a result that carried little concern given Diego Simeone rested most of his first-choice starters ahead of Tuesday’s European clash.

How a Barcelona win affects the UEFA Champions League bracket

A victory for Barcelona on Tuesday would not automatically guarantee their passage to the next round. With Atletico holding a two-goal cushion from the first leg, a narrow one-goal win for the Blaugrana would still see the Colchoneros advance on aggregate.

For Barcelona to advance directly, they would need to win by a margin of three or more goals to overcome the deficit in regulation. If they do manage to complete the comeback, the Blaugrana would face the winner of the other quarterfinal between Sporting CP and Arsenal in the semifinals, with the Gunners currently holding a 1-0 advantage heading into their second leg.

How a Barcelona draw affects the UEFA Champions League bracket

A draw in Tuesday’s match would see Barcelona eliminated from the 2025-26 Champions League, as the two-goal deficit from the first leg would prove insurmountable under a straightforward aggregate calculation.

However, if Barcelona were erase the two-goal deficit and draw in the average scoreline, the situation changes entirely. A 2-0 scoreline in favor of Barcelona, for example, would level the aggregate and send the tie to extra time, with a penalty shootout to follow if the teams remained deadlocked.

How a Barcelona loss affects the UEFA Champions League bracket

If Barcelona were to lose on Tuesday, they would be eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, falling short of the semifinals once again. Their last appearance at that stage came in the 2018-19 season against Liverpool, while a victory for Atletico would see the Colchoneros reach the Champions League semifinals for the first time since the 2016-17 campaign.

In a video posted on his official YouTube account, Ney showed his private collection of jerseys and trophies gathered throughout his professional career. The collection includes, of course, items he wore with the different clubs he has played for, as well as with the Brazil national team, along with pieces from athletes he admires.

One of the standout items in the collection is a Real Madrid jersey from the 2017-18 season with the number 7 on the back. “Cristiano Ronaldo… He is a beast!” Neymar said while showing that particular piece, alongside others such as a Zlatan Ibrahimovic jersey from AC Milan.

This is not the first time the Brazilian forward has expressed his admiration for Ronaldo. In fact, in a 2020 interview Neymar said: “I respect him a lot for the history he has made. He is the mirror I look into… He has been at the top for 10 years, like Messi, and we all want to be like them.”

Neymar facing Cristiano Ronaldo

Neymar’s admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo dates back to when he was a child watching him shine at Manchester United, and getting the chance to face him on the pitch has not changed that opinion.

Over the course of his professional career, Ney faced Cristiano Ronaldo eight times, all at club level. The first seven came in Clasicos between Barcelona and Real Madrid from 2013 to 2017, with four wins for Neymar, two for Ronaldo and one draw. The most recent meeting came in 2018, when Real Madrid defeated Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.

Neymar admires several NBA stars

Soccer is not the only sport that interests Neymar. He has often shown his passion for basketball, particularly for several NBA stars. In his personal collection, the Santos forward owns jerseys from multiple American players.

“This is a Kobe Bryant jersey. The day he sadly passed away, I wore it as a tribute to him,” Neymar explained in the same video, about a Paris Saint-Germain jersey with the number 24 and Bryant’s name. “I’m a big fan of him—I even have a tattoo of him. He’s an inspiration to me, so this was a tribute.”

In addition, among his Kobe memorabilia, Ney also keeps a Los Angeles Lakers jersey with the number 24. Alongside that, he also owns one from another legend of the Purple and Gold: “The Man, LeBron James,” the forward said while showing a No. 23 jersey. Finally, he also displayed a Golden State Warriors item: “I’m going to put this jersey up here too. Curry. A jersey he wore that I managed to get.”

The match against Al-Okhdood was more than just another step in the title race for Al-Nassr. It presented a chance for Ronaldo to etch his name into yet another record, adding extra tension to an already significant fixture. While the team delivered, the individual milestone remained just out of reach.

Al-Nassr entered the match in commanding form, carrying a long winning streak that had placed it firmly at the top of the standings. The contrast between the two sides was clear, with Al-Okhdood fighting to avoid relegation while the visitor aimed to strengthen its grip on the title.

Despite the pressure, Jorge Jesus’ players delivered a 2-0 victory, extending their remarkable run and opening a five-point lead at the top of the table. The result reinforced the club’s consistency and highlighted its ability to maintain focus during the most critical phase of the season.

The record that slipped away

The spotlight before kickoff had been firmly on Ronaldo’s chase for another historic achievement. Heading into the match, he had already amassed 97 goals in 100 Saudi Pro League appearances, putting him within touching distance of a remarkable milestone. The target was clear: match the fastest run to 100 league goals, a record held by Abderrazak Hamdallah, who reached the mark in 101 matches.

Ronaldo needed a hat-trick to equal that feat, a challenge that added urgency to every attacking move. However, despite scoring and playing a decisive role, Ronaldo did not reach the required tally. The record remains intact, leaving his pursuit unfinished but still very much alive as the season continues.

Even without breaking the record, the Portuguese superstar made his impact felt early in the game. He opened the scoring with a composed finish in the 15th minute, setting the tone for another confident Al-Nassr performance.

Closing in on another historic milestone

While one record slipped away, another moved significantly closer. Ronaldo’s latest goal took him to 98 league goals in just 101 appearances, placing him within striking distance of becoming Al-Nassr’s all-time top scorer in the Saudi Pro League.

The milestone he now chases belongs to Mohammed Al-Sahlawi, who leads the club’s scoring charts with 103 goals. Ronaldo’s rapid rise through the rankings highlights both his consistency and efficiency since arriving in Saudi Arabia.

The 41-year-old veteran needs six more goals to surpass Al-Sahlawi and become Al-Nassr’s all-time top scorer in the Saudi Pro League, as confirmed by Transfermarkt. Given his current form, that target feels well within reach before the season concludes.

The stage is set as Barcelona faces Atletico Madrid in a crucial second leg, with the Spanish side holding a strong advantage from the first meeting. The Catalan club must respond with urgency, while their striker carries the added narrative of closing in on a historic milestone. The Blaugrana’s 2-0 defeat in the first leg has left the club with a daunting task heading into the return fixture.

A red card to Pau Cubarsi disrupted their rhythm, allowing Atletico Madrid to capitalize through clinical finishing and disciplined defending. Despite that setback, Barca responded domestically with a 4-1 victory over Espanyol, regaining confidence at a crucial moment. That result has helped restore belief within the squad, but the challenge in Madrid remains steep, especially against a side known for its defensive resilience.

Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Barcelona has shown strong form overall, yet inconsistency in Europe has raised concerns. The club leads La Liga comfortably, but its Champions League ambitions now hang in the balance.

For the Rojiblancos, the situation is far more controlled, with the team able to focus entirely on protecting its lead. Their home record in Europe adds another layer of difficulty for Barcelona, making any comeback effort even more demanding.

How many goals Lewandowski needs to beat Suarez

In the middle of this high-pressure clash lies a personal milestone for Lewandowski, one that could elevate his status in Barcelona’s European history. According to Transfermarkt, the Polish striker has scored 23 Champions League goals for Barcelona, placing him within touching distance of Suarez’s tally of 25.

To match that number, Lewandowski needs two goals, while three would see him surpass Suarez and claim second place in the club’s all-time Champions League scoring list. The symmetry between personal ambition and team necessity creates a compelling narrative heading into the match.

Efficiency that tells a story

The veteran’s numbers underline his impact since arriving at Barcelona. He has reached his 23 goals in just 37 appearances, averaging 0.62 goals per game, compared to Suarez’s 25 goals in 55 matches at a rate of 0.45.

His recent form offers encouragement, with four goals in his last five Champions League matches, suggesting he remains capable of delivering on the biggest stage. The club will rely heavily on his experience and composure as they attempt to overturn the deficit.

Paris Saint-Germain come in as clear favorites to beat the Reds. Not only are they coming off a dominant performance in the first leg, but they also have their key players in top form. In addition, coach Luis Enrique has imposed his authority on the game, relying on a high press that suffocates Liverpool in their build-up. Moreover, Désiré Doué and Vitinha are expected to be decisive in securing another victory in today’s match.

Unlike the first leg, coach Arne Slot could opt for a more offensive approach, looking to make the difference through Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai. In addition, they will aim to assert greater control in midfield by introducing Florian Wirtz to enhance their creative output, linking up with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch. With a comeback needed, Hugo Ekitike must play a key role in front of goal.

How could Liverpool’s win against PSG affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

Even though Liverpool secure a victory over PSG, they would not immediately secure a place in the 2025–26 Champions League semifinals. Having lost 2–0 in the first leg, the Reds would need to win by a three-goal margin against the French side. If they manage to do so, they would face the winner of the tie between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. In that case, the English side would surpass their performances from the last three seasons in the competition.

How could Liverpool’s draw against PSG affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

Being a two-leg format, Liverpool would be eliminated immediately if they draw against PSG. With a 2–0 deficit on aggregate, the Reds would have no way of reaching the Champions League semifinals. If they manage to defeat PSG by a two-goal margin, they would level the aggregate score, opening the door to compete for a place in the next round of the tournament.

As this is the second leg, a winner would have to be decided in extra time, with two periods of 15 minutes each. If there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where a definitive winner would be determined to face the winner of the tie between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

How could Liverpool’s defeat against PSG affect the UEFA Champions League bracket?

If Liverpool were to lose to PSG, they would be automatically eliminated from the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League. This would mark the fourth consecutive season that the Reds have failed to reach the tournament’s final. The situation is quite different for the French side, as they would be reaching the semifinals for the third consecutive season and are favorites to advance to the final and seek their second consecutive title in the tournament.

On Monday, Barcelona held their pre-match press conference, with Lamine Yamal among the most prominent voices, even directing a message toward Atletico coach Diego Simeone, before Flick addressed the media. The squad also conducted their final training session ahead of Tuesday’s clash at the Metropolitano, and their first contact with the pitch left something to be desired.

In footage captured by accredited media, Flick was visibly unhappy the moment he stepped onto the field. The Barcelona manager crouched down on multiple occasions to examine the grass up close, his body language leaving little doubt about his dissatisfaction with what he found.

After determining that the grass was too long and excessively dry, Flick wasted no time seeking out UEFA delegate Christian Kofoed of Denmark, who was stationed on the touchline. The German coach proceeded to make his concerns known directly to the representative in no uncertain terms.

Despite the clear frustration on display, Diario AS reports that Barcelona have not filed a formal complaint, with Flick’s remarks characterized as an observation that UEFA has acknowledged. Atletico Madrid, for their part, have reportedly pushed back against any suggestion that the pitch was in poor condition in the 24 hours leading up to kickoff.

Pitch conditions emerge as another obstacle for Barcelona

A dry surface creates significantly more friction as the ball rolls across it, causing it to slow down considerably compared to a wet pitch, and that factor cuts directly against Flick’s style of play. In La Liga, Barcelona lead all teams with 586 passes completed per game, and in the Champions League they rank fourth with 507, while also placing among the lower teams in long ball frequency, making the pace and smoothness of the playing surface a genuine competitive concern.

The dry conditions at the Metropolitano have already proven costly for Barcelona in this very stadium this season. In the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal, Atletico exploited an unexpected bounce on the pitch that caused goalkeeper Joan García to mishandle the ball, resulting in an own goal that opened a 4-0 victory for the hosts. It is precisely that kind of moment Flick will be desperate to avoid when the two sides meet again on Tuesday.

Al Nassr took Sunday off after Saturday’s win against Al Okhdood, and on Monday’s training session, Iñigo Martinez returned to group training. The Spanish defender made his way back after almost one month sidelined due to a tear in his hamstring.

With his return alongside his teammates, Iñigo Martinez has been confirmed as available for Al Nassr’s next game. For Matchday 29 of the SPL, Ronaldo and company will be hosting the game against Al Ettifaq on Wednesday, April 15th, to keep their historic winning streak of 14 wins going.

Due to this injury, Martinez missed the last two games against Al Najma and Al Okhdood, both teams siting at rock bottom of the table. With more challenging duels on the horizon, his return to the team will be key, but for the upcoming game, as reported by Al Arriyadiyah, head coach Jorge Jesus will have the last word on his presence.

In the 5-2 win against Al Najma, coach Jesus remarked that the team wasn’t good defensively. “We were not good defensively today, especially at the back line. We missed Martínez, and that affected our defensive balance,” he said in the post match press conference, highlighting his importance on the team.

Cristiano Ronaldo and rest of starters with recovery exercises

In contrast with Iñigo Martinez and a limited group, Cristiano Ronaldo took part of the recovery routine and exercises alongside the players that started the last game against Al Okhdood. The focus and normal training sessions was more focused on non-starting players.

Since recovering from his hamstring injury, Ronaldo got subbed off in the 2 games he’s performed, though his form remains intact with three goals scored in that span. With six games left in the Saudi Pro League, and with Al Nassr sitting at the top with 73 points, managing his minutes will be key for both the title race, and also to reach fitness with the World Cup in less than two months.

One of the most contentious moments of last weekend’s La Liga action came during Real Madrid‘s 1-1 draw with Girona at the Santiago Bernabeu. In the 88th minute, Vitor Reis caught Mbappe with an elbow while attempting to mark him inside the box, opening a wound that caused heavy bleeding and required immediate medical attention.

Referee officials ruled the contact unintentional, declining to award a penalty, a decision that drew significant frustration from the Real Madrid camp. Mbappe was able to see the match out, but two days later he was absent from training when the squad returned to work.

In the interim, Mbappe posted a photo on his Instagram account showing him receiving medical attention on the affected area, without any caption. The update confirmed he had received three stitches above his right eyebrow.

Having been kept off the pitch on Sunday for further assessment, Mbappe was back training alongside his teammates at the Valdebebas training complex on Monday. With 39 goals in 28 appearances for Real Madrid this season, his presence will be critical as Los Blancos look to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Bayern Munich.

Kylian Mbappe set to feature against Bayern Munich

With the immediate concern now behind him, Mbappe’s availability for Wednesday’s second leg against Bayern is not in doubt. However, precautions are being taken to ensure the striker does not risk aggravating the injury during the match.

According to Diario AS, while Mbappe is still experiencing some discomfort in the area, the use of a protective mask has already been ruled out. That said, the club is working internally to provide him with some form of protection to guard the affected area during the game.

According to Mario Cortegana, via The Athletic, Real Madrid have decided to count on Endrick for the 2026–27 season. With this, the Brazilian would end his loan spell at Olympique Lyon at the end of the season, in order to become part of Los Blancos’ attacking line. Despite this, he may not be an undisputed starter, but instead earn playing time as a backup to Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappé, though with a more prominent role than in his previous spell.

With Endrick’s return reportedly decided, Los Blancos have opted not to count on Gonzalo García. Although the Spaniard impressed at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, he has not managed to secure a place in the team’s rotation. In an effort to prioritize his development, Real Madrid would look to sell him so he can gain playing time, while still maintaining control over his future through a buy-back clause, a percentage of any future sale, or a right of first refusal.

Unlike Gonzalo García, the Brazilian striker may be compatible with Vinicius and Kylian Mbappé. Having a privileged vision and creative capacity, Endrick could become a wildcard for Real Madrid’s offense. In his Ligue One tenure, he has scored three goals and contributed five assists in eleven games, proving to be differential. For that reason, he could emerge as a solid boost to the offense, as they have battled to perform this season without the Frenchman.

Endrick’s comeback may lead a Real Madrid’s offense rebuild

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Real Madrid have experienced quite inconsistent performances from several of their players. Not only Gonzalo García but also Franco Mastantuono and Rodrygo Goes have been relegated to secondary roles. Because of this, Los Blancos could take advantage of Endrick’s return to lead a rebuild of their attack, allowing some players to leave in order to maintain balance.

In case Endrick’s arrival is confirmed, Gonzalo García would leave the team permanently, with Como 1907 in Serie A showing interest, along with clubs from England, Germany, Spain, and Portugal, according to Fabrizio Romano. Alongside him, Franco Mastantuono could seek a loan move after losing his place to Brahim Díaz and Federico Valverde in the rotation.

Rodrygo Goes seemed destined to leave Real Madrid, as he went from an undisputed starter to a rotational player. However, his ACL injury could complicate his departure, as he may look to fully recover at Los Blancos and then decide his future. Because of this, the team’s reinforcements seem likely to focus on defense and midfield, leaving only Endrick’s return as the main attacking addition for the next season.

According to L’Équipe, PSG and Ousmane Dembélé have decided to pause contract extension talks, making it clear there is still time, as his current deal runs until 2028. Instead, the French side has chosen to prioritize the renewals of Senny Mayulu and Bradley Barcola, whose contracts expire in 2027 and 2028 respectively. In addition, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner is reportedly not fully accepting the contractual offer on the table.

Following his historic season, Paris Saint-Germain acknowledge that Dembélé deserves a salary increase. However, president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has made it clear that the club will not break its wage structure, unlike in the cases of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Neymar. As a result, the French side are open to reassessing his future in the event of an early elimination, or keeping him as a cornerstone if he shines again and helps secure the title reports L’Équipe.

Given his uncertain contractual situation, Ousmane Dembélé could be set for a move to the Premier League, with several clubs monitoring a potential transfer. In addition, Saudi Pro League teams have joined the interest, having made multiple approaches throughout the season. However, the Frenchman has decided to pause any renewal or transfer talks until after the 2026 World Cup, where a standout performance could ultimately define his future.

Dembélé wages could rule out most Premier League clubs

Unlike other leagues, Premier League clubs maintain strong investment capacity, allowing them to handle multimillion-dollar transfers. Because of this, the Frenchman could fit into most English top-flight teams. However, Ousmane Dembélé reportedly holds salary expectations above €50 million, which would significantly limit his options to only a very small number of clubs.

Over the past few years, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool have been the only Premier League sides capable of offering salaries above €20 million per season, alongside extremely high transfer fees. For this reason, Dembélé would realistically only fit into these teams, with the Reds and the Red Devils best positioned, as they are set to lose their top earners: Mohamed Salah and Casemiro.

Ousmane Dembélé might find his ideal salary in Saudi Arabia

Despite the fact that the potential arrival of Ousmane Dembélé represents a major opportunity for several teams, they could struggle to meet his extremely high salary expectations. Nevertheless, the Frenchman could have an ideal solution: Saudi Pro League. As one of the most financially powerful leagues, they could make him a tempting offer to the 2025 Ballon d’Or candidate, reaching up to the €60M per season he is reportedly demanding.

Being a well-known Muslim, Dembélé’s potential arrival would have a major cultural impact, becoming a reference point for local fans. In addition, the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo, along with the possible arrival of Mohamed Salah, could further raise the league’s profile, drawing renewed attention from fans. However, they have not yet submitted a formal offer, according to L’Équipe.

Before nodding to LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2016 comeback, another landmark reversal closer to Barcelona’s own history was the one engineered by Neymar against PSG in the 2016-17 season. By scoring a brace and delivering the winning assist for Sergi Roberto, the Blaugrana completed one of the most iconic comebacks in sports history, and the scenario Barcelona now face against Atletico carries a strikingly similar feel.

At Monday’s press conference, Yamal was asked whether he had revisited that iconic Neymar performance for inspiration, and the young star was effusive in his praise for his idol: “I have seen it many times; I have seen it live as well. Neymar is a player who defined my entire childhood—he is my idol—and I will always be grateful for what he has given to football.“

Yamal then went a step further, expressing his hope that Neymar would be part of the 2026 World Cup. “I believe he inspires us all. He is the kind of player you pay for a ticket to see; three days would pass after a match, and you’d watch it again just to see his plays. I want to thank him for what he has given to the game, and I hope he can be at the World Cup,” he concluded.

Despite frequently drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi due to his playing style, Yamal has consistently been eager to highlight Neymar’s influence on his development. The Spanish teenager had the chance to meet his idol in person back in June 2025, just before the start of the current season.

Although Yamal was Barcelona‘s brightest spark in the first leg, Atletico stayed compact and goalkeeper Juan Musso produced a series of outstanding saves to keep him off the scoresheet. Now heading to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the Blaugrana must wipe out a two-goal deficit from the opening whistle, a challenge Yamal is embracing with the same belief that has fueled some of the great comebacks in the club’s history.

Yamal eager to make his mark in the second leg

Despite being reduced to ten men for the entire second half of the first leg, Barcelona still dominated possession and created chances, with Yamal often at the center of their most dangerous moments. Far from feeling weighed down by the pressure of being the team’s go-to player, the teenager sees it as fuel.

Yamal shared his mindset heading into the match and made clear just how much he is relishing the moment: “I’m very excited. I’ve always said that at the start of the season, my level was questioned a lot because of my pubalgia, and I like it when these moments arrive because this is when the real players show up. I’m really looking forward to tomorrow.“

Yamal has already proven he can deliver on the biggest stages, scoring against France and setting up the winner against England in Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, and leading Barcelona’s attack in last season’s Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan despite the eventual defeat. With the weight of the occasion on his shoulders at just 18 years old, Yamal appears ready to rise to it once more.

“This is a match that could go down in Champions League history. It’s a historic game for the club, and we are focused on this match, not the Copa final. We’re approaching it like a final. We’re going there to win it… My teammates are highly motivated. It’s normal that they (Barcelona players) believe they can come back. The opposite would be strange…with the desire to play a great match against a strong opponent, in our stadium,” Koke said in the latest press conference.

Even though they hold a comfortable advantage on the scoreboard, Koke’s words suggest they will not sit back and defend. Unlike in previous seasons, Los Colchoneros have shown that their best version comes when they take an aggressive, high-risk approach, with Ademola Lookman and Giuliano Simeone dominating the flanks. With this in mind, they will look to extend their lead rather than protect it.

While Lamine Yamal has opted to challenge coach Diego Simeone over his dominance in one-on-one situations, they have decided to stick to their approach: Securing the victory. However, Los Colchoneros could look to apply tight marking on the 18-year-old star, limiting his ability to make an impact in attack. In addition, they will aim to exploit the space behind Barcelona’s defenders with their quick counterattacking style.

Atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone faces key absentees vs. Barcelona

Ahead of the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, Atlético Madrid arrive with a clear advantage, holding a two-goal lead on aggregate. In addition, coach Diego Simeone regains Pablo Barrios, Johnny Cardoso, and Jan Oblak, providing a significant boost. However, they also face a major setback, as they will be without three absences that could prove decisive in the match against Barcelona.

Coach Diego Simeone will be without three high-level center-backs: Marc Pubill due to accumulated yellow cards, as well as José María Giménez and David Hancko, who did not take part in the latest training session due to fitness issues. Without them, Los Colchoneros lose defensive reliability, leaving everything in the hands of Robin Le Normand and Clément Lenglet, who have tended to make mistakes from game to game.

Taking advantage of these absences, the Blaugranas could look to apply sustained high pressing. In doing so, they may force errors in the build-up, putting Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski in prime positions to score and chase the comeback. However, Los Colchoneros could also aim to reduce their opponent’s influence by adopting an attacking approach that forces Barcelona to proceed with caution.

Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, when the Herons will be visiting the Colorado Rapids in the MLS at the Empower Field at Mile High. He heads into the fixture after a 2-2 draw at the Nu Stadium against New York Red Bulls.

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

The 2026 MLS campaign has just begun for Messi, who has featured in eight official matches so far across all competitions, scoring six times without registering an assist. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Lionel Messi 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.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, when they’ll be hosting Al Ettifaq for Matchday 29 of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League at Al Awwal Park. The Portuguese extended his goal tally netting the opener in the last 2-0 win against Al Okhdood.

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

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 25 goals and provided 4 assists in 28 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 968 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.

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.

“Barça have been chasing the Champions League for many years, we’re eager to get through to the next round, and we are Barça—we’ll give it everything… I feel very good, really looking forward to tomorrow’s match. I’m motivated for it and hope I can make the difference. Let’s see if Cholo does me a favor and sets me up for a one-on-one with a defender—I hope so,” Lamine Yamal said in the latest press conference.

Facing a two-goal deficit, Lamine Yamal knows they’ll need to mount a powerful offensive against Atlético Madrid. Far from being intimidated by this challenge, he has already made it clear that he’s looking forward to one-on-one situations to showcase his offensive prowess and shine. Incidentally, he implies that if los Colchoneros opt for an offensive approach, his team will have the advantage in one-on-one matchups with their players.

Looking ahead to the second leg, the Blaugranas have decided not to rely solely on Lamine Yamal, revels the youngster in press conference. “There are some really talented players—world-class veterans who prove it year after year. I don’t think it’s just about me, and even if it were, I wouldn’t care.” While he is their most influential player, they are counting on veterans like Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, and Dani Olmo to step up.

Hansi Flick may bench Marcus Rashford to restore midfield dominance

Although Barcelona suffered a surprise defeat against Atlético Madrid, they managed to remain the dominant team on the field, though they showed serious problems in midfield. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal dominated down the wings, though they failed to convert their scoring opportunities. Given this, coach Hansi Flick might bench the Englishman, opting instead for a lineup he has used in previous games.

At the latest press conference, Hansi Flick revealed key details of his game plan for the second leg against los Colchoneros. “Everyone on the team needs to be involved and connected, and defend as a unit. When we don’t have the ball, we need to close down spaces and stay compact—that’s how we want to play soccer.” With this in mind, Marcus Rashford starting spot might be in danger to Dani Olmo.

Even though the Englishman had several runs and occasions in the first leg, he constantly lost the possession of the ball. For that reason, Atlético Madrid got the chance to dominate in the counterattack. To avoid this, the German coach may bet for Dani Olmo, coupled with Fermin Lopez to bolster midfield dominance, with numerical superiority. Moreover, they could help Pedri and Frenkie de Jong in the base.

According to Andrea Ramazzotti, via La Gazzetta dello Sport, Rafael Leão felt very mistreated by the boos from the fans. Not only has he been playing several matches with pubalgia, but he is also playing out of position. Despite this, the Portuguese does not feel valued by the supporters for his great efforts for the team, further opening the door to a potential departure in the summer of 2026.

While Leão shone as a world-class left winger, Massimiliano Allegri has not managed to fit him into his system. With his 3-5-2 setup, he has had to adapt to playing as a center forward or second striker—positions that are not natural for him and are being used for the first time in his career. With no indication that the system will change, the coach seems determined to stick with it, leaving the Portuguese without an ideal role at the Rossoneri.

Despite his poor form at the Rossoneri, coach Allegri has chosen to publicly defend him, highlighting his improvements in the game. However, Rafael Leão has not been able to return to his best version, as he has no way of playing with the same prominence as a left winger, something that does not seem likely to change. For this reason, he could force a departure, seeking a team where he can thrive with his pace and dribbling.

Report: Rafael Leão is attracting interest from the Premier League

Throughout his professional career, Rafael Leão has proven to be one of the best left wingers in the world. Under head coach Stefano Pioli, the Portuguese was in peak form, excelling both as a dribbler and a goalscorer, surpassing 10 goals and 10 assists. While he has not managed to shine under coach Allegri, he is still reportedly attracting interest from the Premier League, where his playing style would stand out.

As a fast player with outstanding dribbling ability, Leão is attracting attention from Manchester United, as he is seen as an ideal complement to their attack. In the event of a €40–50M offer (around $46–58M), the Rossoneri would be open to his transfer to the Red Devils, as he is no longer considered untouchable and his relationship with the fans is not at its best, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

If he were to regain prominence as a left winger, Rafael Leão could once again become one of the most impactful players in soccer world. In addition, the high tempo of the Premier League could suit his style of play, giving him opportunities to rediscover his best version. However, the Portuguese is also reportedly attracting interest from Saudi Arabia, presenting another potential option.

According to Martín Arevalo, covering ESPN Argentina, Tottenham Hotspur star Cristian Romero has been diagnosed with a knee injury, leaving him out for 5–8 weeks. Moreover, Gastón Edul, specialist covering Argentina national team, reports that he does not have collateral ligament tear, avoiding surgery. Nonetheless, the defender will not play with the English team this season, leaving them in a sensitive spot.

As a defensive cornerstone for Lionel Messi’s national team, his potential participation in the anticipated tournament would be a significant boost. Not only was he key to the 2022 World Cup title, but he also remains one of the leaders in the dressing room. However, coach Scaloni will be the one to decide whether to call him up, as his match fitness could become an issue for the opening games of the tournament.

Alongside Nicolás Otamendi, Cristian Romero has led a great era for Argentina, winning two Copa América titles and a World Cup with them at the back. In addition, Lisandro Martínez also emerges as a key figure for Lionel Messi’s side, providing stability to the team. For this reason, head coach Scaloni could opt to call him up, aiming to give him minutes so he can reach full fitness, as he is key both on and off the pitch.

Cristian Romero’s absence may truly affect Tottenham Hotspur

Unlike previous seasons, Tottenham Hotspur are going through the worst moment in their history. After dismissing Ange Postecoglou, Thomas Frank, and Igli Tare, they find themselves fighting to avoid relegation to the EFL Championship. Because of this, Cristian Romero’s absence could prove to be the definitive blow to their season, leaving everything in the hands of Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven.

In case his injury extend is confirmed, Cristian will miss the remainder of the season with his club. With only five matches left, the Argentine may not return in time to help avoid relegation under Roberto De Zerbi. As a result, they will have to place their season in the hands of Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven, moving closer to the EFL Championship than to staying in the Premier League.