Sneijder said: “There were decisions like going on vacation instead of staying with the team. That is not right, especially when Barcelona can become champions in El Clásico. That really hurts the fans. You need to be with the team.”

His behavior off the field has drawn criticism, but Mbappé did not stop there, as the forward posted smiling pictures the day after Real Madrid’s rivals lifted the trophy by beating them in an important match.

Sneijder on the next manager

Even if Álvaro Arbeloa has not been dismissed yet, it is almost certain he will not be Real Madrid’s manager for much longer. In Sneijder’s view, the best replacement would be José Mourinho because of his experience.

The former player had plenty of praise for the Portuguese manager, under whom he played at Inter when they won the treble and he enjoyed the best year of his career, with his personality standing out as his biggest strength.

Sneijder said: “Real Madrid are one of the teams that need a great manager, but also a manager capable of handling incredible players with very strong personalities. I think he is the ideal person for that role.”

Sneijder on managing too many players

One of the most important tasks for any manager is keeping all players ready to contribute whenever the team needs them. That could be the main thing the Portuguese coach brings to the club.

Sneijder said: “Mourinho knows exactly how to manage every player, because it is easy to manage the starting 11. Every manager in the world can do that, but it is not just about them. There are more players on the bench or even out of it.”

Mascherano attended an event in Mexico this weekend tied to El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid, as a legend of the Catalan side. There, he spoke with reporters and, among other topics, was asked about how he has seen Messi in recent weeks.

“Good, good. Honestly, he always looks good,” Mascherano replied. While the coach did not explicitly say anything controversial and even smiled while answering the question, his unusually brief response drew attention and opened the door to further speculation.

Mascherano’s abrupt resignation was officially described as being due to “personal reasons” in the statement released at the time by Inter Miami, and so far neither side has provided further clarification. A similar situation occurred at the end of 2024, when Gerardo Martino also stepped down as the club’s head coach.

The relationship between Messi and Mascherano

Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano were teammates with the Argentina national team between 2005 and 2018, playing together in four World Cups, four Copa America tournaments, and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. They also shared the field at Barcelona between 2010 and 2017.

That close relationship was considered one of the main reasons why Inter Miami chose him as head coach despite his limited managerial experience, which consisted mainly of his stint with Argentina’s U-20 national team.

Throughout those years, whenever Mascherano was asked about Messi, he consistently praised him heavily — something that was notably absent this time. “I’m fortunate because I get to enjoy Leo up close. Sometimes people see him on television, but I’m closer to him. Leo is the best player to ever play this sport. He keeps proving it, and I’m very happy with him,” the coach said last year, in stark contrast to his short response this week.

Mascherano speaks about Argentina and the 2026 World Cup

In addition to discussing Lionel Messi’s current situation at Inter Miami, Javier Mascherano also spoke about his expectations for Argentina with the 2026 FIFA World Cup just one month away.

“Argentina have a team that is in very good form, and that creates huge expectations,” Mascherano said before wishing Lionel Scaloni’s squad success. “Hopefully they can win the championship again. That’s what all Argentinians want.”

“(Bale) is the most complete player (that I have played with) in my career. Cristiano scores, Cristiano has 15 goals. Minimum 15 goals. But Bale attacks, defends, heads, scores, fouls. Cristiano is the best. Cristiano is the best. Cristiano is another one. Cristiano gives the… Take Cristiano off the conversation. But for me, Bale is the best, more complete. Everything, he does very good, very quick. Too strong,” Casemiro said, via Rio Ferdinand Presents.

Despite Gareth Bale being one of the most important Real Madrid players in recent years, he has often been a rather controversial figure among fans. Due to his lack of a charismatic public image and his numerous injuries, the Welshman was frequently viewed as a problem within the squad. Nevertheless, he recorded 106 goals and 68 assists, proving decisive in many finals and key moments—something very few have achieved at the club.

Far from Casemiro’s comparison being a criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo, the Brazilian star was aiming to acknowledge Bale’s huge impact on the team. Although the Welshman was an attacking player, he contributed significantly to multiple phases of the game, becoming a key structural piece within the system. In doing so, he helped elevate Cristiano, as instead of competing with him, he complemented him, forming the iconic ‘BBC’ alongside Karim Benzema.

Cristiano and Bale do not compete for a legacy at Real Madrid

Throughout his time at Real Madrid, Gareth Bale managed to adapt to the team’s needs, becoming the perfect complement to Cristiano Ronaldo, who emerged as the club’s main figure. Having both players excelling through their pace, Los Blancos secured four Champions League titles with them leading the attack. Because of this, they are not competing against each other for a legacy at the club, as they have instead built a shared and highly successful one.

Cristiano and Bale played 157 games together at Real Madrid, which resulted in 41 combined goal contributions. Beyond the statistics and trophies, both managed to build strong on-field chemistry, developing several automatisms that allowed them to dominate for multiple years. While the Portuguese star is the club’s greatest legend, the Welshman stands out as a key player in a golden era for the team, being crucial for the club’s history, but at different levels.

“The dream is close. Heads up, we have one more step to take!” Ronaldo wrote on his official Instagram and X accounts on Tuesday, just minutes after a bizarre mistake by goalkeeper Bento denied Al Nassr both the victory and the title.

“Thank you all for the amazing support tonight!” the Portuguese forward added, acknowledging the thousands of fans who backed the team during the crucial clash against Al Hilal, as well as the millions around the world who continue to follow him throughout every stage of his professional career.

Despite its brevity, the message reflected a dramatic shift in Ronaldo’s mindset within just a matter of minutes. In the immediate aftermath of the final whistle, he appeared deeply affected by the missed opportunity for Al Nassr, to the point that television cameras captured him still sitting on the bench while being comforted by members of the coaching staff.

Fans strongly rallied behind Cristiano’s words. Within just a few minutes, the Instagram post surpassed 500,000 likes and 15,000 comments, most of them containing messages of support for the 40-year-old star. The same happened on X, where the post also generated more than 80,000 likes and 7,000 comments.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s upcoming challenges

Cristiano Ronaldo’s optimistic message is fitting considering the challenges that await him in the short term. Al Nassr are just one step away from securing not one, but two titles this season — and it could happen as soon as next Saturday.

First, Jorge Jesus’ team will attempt to lift the AFC Champions League Two trophy when they face Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the final at Alawwal Park. There, Ronaldo will have the opportunity to win the sixth continental trophy of his career, after capturing one UEFA Champions League title with Manchester United and four with Real Madrid.

That same day, he could also celebrate winning the Saudi Pro League title. While Al Nassr will not play, Al Hilal will face Neom. If Karim Benzema and his teammates fail to win that match, they will no longer have a chance to compete for the league trophy, officially handing the title to Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr.

And even if Al Hilal win that game, Al Nassr will still remain top of the standings with a two-point lead. That means a victory next Tuesday against Damac would secure the trophy regardless of Al Hilal’s result against Al Fayha happening at the same time.

After being sidelined for 40 matches following an arthroscopy earlier this campaign, Gavi returned just in time to crack Barcelona’s starting XI for El Clasico. Following a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid, the Blaugrana were crowned 2025-26 La Liga champions, with the young midfielder playing a central role in the celebrations at a rocking Camp Nou.

Speaking with DSports after the match, Gavi was asked about the top contenders for the upcoming tournament in North America: “In the end, obviously, Argentina won the last one; I believe they are the favorites because they won the previous World Cup.“

Beyond their status as defending champions, the midfielder was quick to cite his admiration for Argentina’s legendary captain. “For me, Leo Messi is the best; wherever he is, that will be the best national team—that’s just how it is,” Gavi added.

Messi and Gavi never officially shared the pitch in Barcelona, as the Spaniard’s debut came in August 2021, just months after Messi’s emotional departure. Nevertheless, the influence the Argentine left on the club’s next generation remains undeniable, as evidenced by Gavi’s glowing endorsement of the Inter Miami star.

Gavi still likes Spain’s chances on the world stage

While Argentina are the defending champions, they recently slipped from the top of the FIFA Rankings, overtaken first by Spain and currently by France. Now sitting as the No. 3 team in the world according to FIFA, Argentina still face a stiff challenge from a resurgent Spanish side.

Coming off a Euro title, Gavi believes La Roja have the talent to go all the way in North America. “But obviously, Spain also has very good players, and hopefully we can take home the World Cup,” said the midfielder, who was recently named to Luis de la Fuente’s preliminary roster.

Argentina’s World Cup path

Argentina headlines Group J as Messi prepares to make history by competing in his record-breaking sixth World Cup. The Albiceleste open their journey against Algeria on June 17, followed by a clash with Austria on the 22nd, before wrapping up group play against Jordan on June 28.

Spain’s World Cup path

Spain finds itself in Group H, kicking off their campaign against Cape Verde on June 15. They move on to face Saudi Arabia on June 21 and finish the opening stage against Uruguay on June 26. Interestingly, should one team win its group and the other finish second, these two heavyweights could meet as early as the Round of 32.

The former Barcelona striker, now playing alongside Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, recently reopened the door to a possible return for Uruguay despite stepping away from international duty in 2024. At the same time, Spain continues preparing for a difficult group-stage challenge that could eventually place Yamal face-to-face with some of South America’s biggest names.

The rumors began after the MLS star publicly admitted he would still answer the call if Uruguay needed him. The 39-year-old forward made it clear that representing the national team remained deeply personal despite the controversy surrounding his departure nearly two years ago. “I would never say no to the national team if they need me, especially with a World Cup coming up,” Suarez revealed.

The veteran striker also reflected on the difficult period that followed his criticism of Marcelo Bielsa after the 2024 Copa America. Suarez previously accused the Argentine coach of creating divisions inside the squad, comments that sparked major debate throughout Uruguay. However, the Inter Miami star appeared eager to move beyond the situation. “At the time, I stepped aside to make way for the younger generation. I said something I shouldn’t have said. I have already apologized,” Suarez explained.

Those comments immediately fueled speculation that Uruguay could hand the country’s all-time leading scorer one final international opportunity. After all, Suarez remains one of the most iconic figures in the nation’s soccer history, having scored 69 goals in 143 appearances while helping Uruguay win the 2011 Copa América.

What is Bielsa’s reported decision?

Despite the emotional possibility of a farewell tournament, Uruguayan journalist Rodri Vazquez reveals that Marcelo Bielsa has not included Luis Suarez in the country’s preliminary 55-man World Cup squad.

The decision reportedly ends Suarez’s realistic hopes of appearing at a fifth World Cup unless an unexpected late change occurs before FIFA’s final squad deadline. Multiple outlets in Uruguay confirmed that the striker’s name was absent from the expanded list submitted ahead of the tournament.

The development represents a major moment for La Celeste’s generational transition under Bielsa. Since taking charge, the former Leeds coach has consistently pushed for younger attacking options and a more intense playing style centered around players such as Darwin Nunez and other emerging talents.

In addition, Diario Ole suggests that the relationship between Bielsa and Suarez never fully recovered following the striker’s public criticism in 2024. Although Suarez later apologized, Bielsa appears determined to continue reshaping the squad with the future in mind.

According to Uruguayan media, the coaching staff believes the team’s long-term evolution requires complete commitment to the younger core ahead of the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

No Yamal vs Suarez clash in Group H?

If the reports are confirmed officially, Suarez’s international story may already have reached its conclusion. His last appearance for Uruguay came in September 2024 during a World Cup qualifier against Paraguay.

While Uruguay’s squad drama unfolds, Spain continues focusing on its own World Cup ambitions, with Lamine Yamal expected to play a central role. The Barcelona teenager has quickly become one of the most feared attacking players in international soccer and is already viewed as one of the faces of the tournament.

Uruguay has been drawn alongside Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde, and Spain in Group H, adding extra intrigue to the possibility of Suarez missing what would have been an emotional reunion with La Roja.

Casillas said: “I don’t have any problems with Mourinho. I think he’s a great professional. I don’t want him at Real Madrid. Other managers would be more prepared to manage the club of my life. Personal opinion. Nothing else.”

The former goalkeeper knows the club better than most, so his opinion carries a lot of weight. Even so, it would not be completely surprising if there were some personal issues between them, since Mourinho was manager during Casillas’ time at Real Madrid.

Casillas on the lack of titles

Casillas was part of Real Madrid from 1999 to 2015, a period in which the club added to its history with titles of all kinds. The goalkeeper himself won 18 trophies and was a major part of those successes.

Just a few hours before his comments about Mourinho, he had also given his opinion on Real Madrid’s lack of titles, backing the critical view shared by many around the club.

Casillas said: “When Real Madrid goes two seasons without titles, it is worrying. We should look at next year and forget this one. It is curious because I was just reflecting the opinion of a phenomenal former teammate like Toni Kroos. A soccer genius. My opinion, which copies 99% of his, is attacked by a certain sector of the darker side of madridismo, but I don’t care.”

Mourinho’s time with Real Madrid

Mourinho’s spell at the club was not especially memorable because he had to compete with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. He was in charge from 2010 to 2013 and managed 178 matches. His trophy haul was limited, with one La Liga title, one Copa del Rey and one Supercopa de España.

Ronaldo could still win the title with Al Nassr without even playing, as his next chance comes on Saturday. If Al Hilal fail to beat Neom, the championship will be secured with the current five-point gap and only two matches remaining for their closest rivals.

Saturday could become a celebration day for Al Nassr, as the club also has the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. If they do not secure the league before then, they will have to wait until May 21 for their final match. The team standing in their way would be Damac, which is fighting to avoid relegation, but if Al Nassr win, they will clinch the title regardless of how Al Hilal finish their match.

Al Nassr’s season

After several years in which inconsistency defined their performances, Al Nassr were much stronger this season. Their number of wins shows they were the most dominant side, with 27 victories.

Their fewest results were draws, with only two all season. That suggests they were a high-risk team, always going for the win, even if that sometimes led to defeats.

Al Nassr did not have a perfect season in that respect. Unlike Al Hilal, who finished without a loss, Ronaldo’s team lost four times. Still, the most important thing is that they got the result they wanted.

The goal difference

As is often the case with champions around the world, Al Nassr had a strong goal difference backed by their attacking power. They scored 87 goals and conceded only 27, finishing with a plus-60 goal difference on their way to the title.

For much of the first half, Al Hilal established as the dominant side. Relying on high pressing and excellent collective play, they managed to pin Al Nassr back inside their own area. Nevertheless, Karim Benzema and Kanno failed to convert their scoring chances, missing a huge opportunity to put the match away efficiently. Then, Mohamed Simakan scored a goal that completely changed the course of the game.

Although Jorge Jesus’ team were dominated during the first half, they still managed to remain competitive thanks to Sadio Mané, who led the entire attack with an outstanding performance. Nevertheless, it was Simakan’s goal that changed the game, as Al Hilal dropped deep into their own area while Al Nassr began to take control. Far from slowing down, they maintained that same intensity in the second half, but failed to extend their lead.

Simakan’s goal for Al Nassr was overshadowed by Bento’s mistake

Toward the end of the first half, Al Nassr caught Al Hilal by surprise, regaining momentum on the counterattack and earning a corner kick. After an excellent delivery from Marcelo Brozović, several players attempted to strike the ball without success. Nevertheless, a rebound fell kindly to Mohamed Simakan, who did not hesitate to unleash a powerful shot, beating Yassine Bounou and seemingly handing Cristiano Ronaldo the Saudi Pro League title.

After a very balanced second half, the match appeared set to end in a victory for Jorge Jesus’ team. Nevertheless, in the 90+8th minute, a powerful throw-in from an Al Hilal player reached Bento Krepski. Although the Brazilian goalkeeper had delivered a strong performance throughout the match, he failed to control the ball properly, allowing it to slip through his hands and resulting in an own goal that handed the equalizer to the opposition.

With two matches remaining in the 2025-26 season, Al Nassr entered the game knowing that a victory would secure the title, as it would eliminate their rivals’ chances of catching them in the standings.

And Jorge Jesus’ team appeared to be taking care of business. In the 37th minute of the first half, Mohamed Simakan gave Al Nassr the lead after scoring from a scramble inside the box. Aware of how valuable that advantage was, they defended well for the remainder of the match, giving their opponents very few dangerous opportunities.

However, that resistance collapsed on the final play of the game. With Cristiano Ronaldo already on the bench after being substituted by Abdullah Al-Hamdan, goalkeeper Bento failed while attempting to clear a throw-in and scored a bizarre own goal that allowed Al Hilal to equalize, keeping the Saudi Pro League title race alive.

Perhaps the strangest part of Bento’s mistake is that the goal was only possible — and ultimately counted — because of the goalkeeper’s touch. FIFA rules prohibit teams from scoring directly from a throw-in, meaning the ball must touch another player, either teammate or opponent, before entering the net. That means if Bento had simply allowed the ball to go into the goal untouched, the score would have been disallowed and Al Nassr would have secured both the victory and the title.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s wait for a title with Al Nassr continues

Cristiano Ronaldo came within seconds of ending the title drought that has followed him since arriving in Saudi Arabia in January 2023. Since then, Al Nassr have failed to win any of the three Saudi Pro League seasons they have played, while also falling short in the King’s Cup, the Saudi Super Cup, and the AFC Champions League Elite.

That context helps explain Ronaldo’s reaction after Bento’s own goal. Once the match ended, TV cameras captured the Portuguese forward on the bench, visibly devastated and still lamenting the missed opportunity.

What does the Saudi Pro League race look like now?

Al Hilal’s late equalizer leaves the Saudi Pro League title race wide open. Al Nassr still lead the standings by five points, but there is one important detail working against them: Al Hilal have played one fewer match, meaning they control their own destiny to close the gap.

On Saturday, May 16, Al Hilal will face Neom. If they fail to win, Al Nassr will officially be crowned Saudi Pro League champions. But if they earn the victory, they will move within just two points of first place with one match remaining. That final round will take place only three days later: on May 21, Al Hilal will take on Al Fayha, while Al Nassr will face Damac.

Tuesday’s showdown between Al Nassr and Al Hilal carried massive title implications, with the hosts needing a win to effectively wrap up the race. Conversely, had the side led by Karim Benzema managed even a draw, they would have maintained control of their own destiny to potentially leapfrog Al Nassr in the final week.

The match turned on a series of pivotal moments, starting with a Benzema strike that was ultimately wiped off the board for offside. In the 37th minute, Al Nassr capitalized on a corner kick as Kingsley Coman found Mohamed Simakan in the heart of the box for the opening goal, but the drama peaked in stoppage time. Following a late throw-in, a rare lapse from goalkeeper Bento allowed Al Hilal to snatch a 1-1 draw and silence the Al Awwal Park crowd.

How do the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League standings look after Al Nassr’s win?

The stalemate keeps Al Nassr at the summit of the table, moving them to 83 points through 33 games in the 2025-26 SPL campaign. Meanwhile, Al Hilal remains in second place with 78 points through 32 matches, remarkably maintaining their unbeaten status through the current league season.

The late-season drama now shifts entirely to Al Hilal’s critical game in hand. That last-minute equalizer handed Benzema’s side a legitimate lifeline to snatch the title away from Ronaldo; while they trail by five points, a negative result from the leaders could open the opportunity to claim the league trophy. If they win their final two matches, Al Hilal will need for Al Nassr to drop points in their last matchup.

With the trophy still very much up for grabs, Al Nassr will play their final league game against Damac FC on Thursday, May 21, just weeks before the 2026 World Cup kickoff. Al Hilal, now sensing blood in the water, must regroup for a May 16 clash with Neom SC before concluding their domestic hunt against Al Fayha on the 21st.

Ronaldo eyes continental glory before SPL resolution

While the domestic title remains in limbo, Cristiano Ronaldo is still searching for his first major trophy since arriving in Riyadh. A league title would be Al Nassr’s first since 2018-19, but before that is decided, the Portuguese icon has a chance to secure a massive piece of silverware on the continental stage.

On Saturday, May 16, Al Nassr will host Japanese side Gamba Osaka at Al Awwal Park for the AFC Champions League Two final, where Ronaldo will hunt for his first continental title in Asia. While the domestic league was always the primary objective, a victory on Saturday would secure Al Nassr’s fourth international trophy and cap off a historic week for the club.

This Tuesday, the MLS Players Association published the 2026 Salary Guide on its official website, a report detailing the earnings of every player in the league as of April 16 of this year. Messi sits at the top of the rankings with total annual compensation of $28.3 million.

That figure is made up of two components. First, Leo earns a base salary of $25 million. Added to that is extra compensation that “includes any marketing bonus and any agent’s fees, both annualized over the term of the contract.” That formula determines the Average Annual Guaranteed Compensation, which does not include performance bonuses or other agreements and compensation.

To put Messi’s financial dominance in perspective, his total earnings exceed the entire wage bill of 28 of the 30 MLS clubs. Inter Miami, naturally, are one of the two exceptions, with LAFC being the other.

Highest salaries in MLS

In addition to having Lionel Messi at the top of the rankings, Inter Miami also have another player inside the top three highest salaries in MLS. Rodrigo De Paul ranks third with an Average Annual Guaranteed Compensation of $9.6 million.

Second place belongs to Son Heung-min, who earns approximately $11.1 million per year with LAFC. While that is still an impressive figure, it represents just over one-third of Messi’s earnings, highlighting the Argentine forward’s financial edge at the top.

Thomas Muller, another of MLS’s marquee stars, sits much lower in the rankings. The German forward is 12th on the list with an Average Annual Guaranteed Compensation of $5.1 million with the Vancouver Whitecaps.

The highest-paid players in MLS:

1- Lionel Messi – Inter Miami – $28.3 million

2- Son Heung-min – LAFC – $11.1 million

3- Rodrigo De Paul – Inter Miami – $9.6 million

4- Hirving Lozano – San Diego FC – $9.3 million

5- Miguel Almiron – Atlanta United – $7.9 million

6- Emil Forsberg – New York Red Bulls – $6 million

7- Sam Surridge – Nashville SC – $5.9 million

8- Riqui Puig – LA Galaxy – $5.8 million

9- Jonathan Bamba – Chicago Fire – $5.6 million

10- Hany Mukhtar – Nashville SC – $5.4 million

Top spending teams in MLS

Based on the information released by the MLS Players Association, it is also possible to identify the teams currently spending the most on player salaries. Inter Miami, unsurprisingly, lead the league with a total wage bill of $54.6 million, followed by LAFC in second place ($32.7 million) and Atlanta United in third ($27.9 million).

Reports of the first confrontation emerged last Wednesday during a training session at Valdebebas, where teammates had to physically intervene to separate Tchouameni and Valverde. The situation escalated the following day, with another clash that turned physical, culminating in Valverde requiring hospital treatment following training.

In the aftermath, Valverde issued a statement in which he did not deny the argument but pushed back against reports of a fistfight with his teammate. “During the argument, I accidentally hit a table and cut my forehead a little, which required a routine trip to the hospital,” he said. Perez, however, confirmed more of what had originally been reported.

At Tuesday’s press conference, called to announce anticipated club elections, the Real Madrid president was asked for his reaction to the incident: “I think it’s very wrong, and even worse that it has come to light. In 26 years, I think it’s terrible that they’ve put this out there. The chaos that some of you (the journalists) have wanted to convey is horrible.“

Rather than focusing on the confrontation itself, Perez directed his sharpest criticism at whoever had leaked the information to the press. “The leak itself is worse because it implies there is something more going on than just a fight, when the very next day they are friends again. The leak seems worse to me—in my 26-year history, it’s the first time I’ve ever seen it,” he added.

Perez over Real Madrid’s upsetting 25-26 season

The 2025-26 season has been a massive letdown for Real Madrid, with the club failing to secure silverware in the Copa del Rey, La Liga, and the UEFA Champions League. It marks the first time since the 2020-21 campaign that Los Blancos have finished a season empty-handed, a jarring result given the star-studded roster assembled at the Bernabeu.

President Perez recently weighed in on the club’s shortcomings, while also reminding supporters of the standard established under his leadership: “I share the frustration because we haven’t been able to win anything this year. But I have to tell you and show you that with me as president, we have won 66 titles in football and basketball, including seven European Cups in football.“

Al Hilal have managed to become the most consistent team in the league, remaining the only unbeaten side. Under head coach Simone Inzaghi, they have maintained one of the league’s best defenses, supported by a strong midfield. In addition, Karim Benzema and Sergej Milinković-Savić lead the attack, with support from Malcom and Theo Hernández on the wings, giving them hope of securing a victory.

Head coach Jorge Jesus has transformed Al Nassr’s reality, turning them into the best offensive team in the Saudi Pro League. Not only is Cristiano Ronaldo shining from a scoring standpoint, but João Félix and Sadio Mané are as well, giving the team versatility and changes of pace. Despite this, they face a clear challenge: Maintaining defensive consistency, something they have rarely achieved this season despite the strong performances of Iñigo Martínez.

In case Cristiano Ronaldo’s team manage to defeat Al Hilal, they could be crowned Saudi Pro League champions, ending a seven-year drought. That’s why both teams are playing for the most important part of the season, as Karim Benzema’s side would need a victory today and to maintain their unbeaten run in the remaining matches to take the title away from Al Nassr.

Al Nassr confirmed lineup vs Al Hilal

Despite entering today’s match as favorites, Al Nassr will face Al Hilal with five key absences: Ângelo, Nawaf Al-Aqeedi, Raghid Alaa Najjar, Sami Al-Najei, and Mubarak Buainain. Nevertheless, head coach Jorge Jesus has recovered Kingsley Coman, allowing him to partner Sadio Mané on the wings. From a scoring standpoint, Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix are expected to be key once again, just as they have been throughout the season.

Considering this, Al Nassr will lineup as follows: Bento Krepski; Nawaf Boushal, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Mohamed Simakan, Iñigo Martinez; Kingsley Coman, Ali Alhassan, Marcelo Brozovic, Sadio Mane; Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Al Hilal confirmed lineup vs Al Nassr

Al Hilal are looking to surprise Al Nassr by defeating them with their impressive defensive and offensive consistency. Although head coach Simone Inzaghi will be without Hamad Al Yami and Kalidou Koulibaly, he still has Karim Benzema, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Theo Hernández, and Rúben Neves available. With them in the roster, they are aiming for a victory that would once again establish them as favorites to win the Saudi Pro League.

With this in mind, Al Hilal will play as follows: Yassine Bounou; Hassan Altambakti, Moteb Al-Harbi, Ruben Neves, Theo Hernández; Mohamed Kanno, Nasser Aldawsari; Malcom, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Salem Al Dawsari; Karim Benzema.

“For me, from my generation, the best were Cristiano, Messi, and Neymar,” Casemiro began during a conversation on the YouTube channel of former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand. “Neymar is maybe a little below them because he didn’t win many titles.”

That argument has some merit. At the collective level, the Brazilian forward has enjoyed an extremely successful career, winning 31 trophies with Santos, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Al Hilal, and the Brazil national team. That puts him reasonably close to Messi’s 47 titles — the most by any player in soccer history — and Ronaldo’s 35.

However, it is in the individual honors where the comparison becomes difficult to sustain. While Messi has won eight Ballon d’Or awards and three FIFA The Best honors, Cristiano has claimed two FIFA awards and five Ballon d’Or trophies. Neymar, meanwhile, has never won a world player of the year award, with his best finish being third place.

Beyond those numbers, Casemiro made it clear that his admiration for Neymar remains enormous, rooted in the talent the forward displayed on the field. “He was… In training sessions, in games… every touch of the ball was ‘wow,’” said the Brazil player. “But Cristiano and Messi were from another planet.”

Casemiro proposes a new role for Neymar with Brazil

The conversation with Rio Ferdinand came amid ongoing debate over whether Neymar should be included in the 26-man roster that will represent Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Casemiro shared his opinion on the matter, suggesting the forward should have a reduced role.

“If it were my decision, I would take Neymar to the World Cup, but I would tell him he wouldn’t play every game,” the midfielder explained. “Bring him on when the match is under control and he can give us an assist that changes the game. We don’t have players like that right now, but the decision belongs to Ancelotti.”

Neymar reportedly on Brazil’s preliminary squad

Speculation surrounding Neymar is expected to continue for several more weeks, as reports from Globo Esporte and Lance! indicate that Carlo Ancelotti included Neymar among the 55 players on Brazil’s preliminary roster. Still, that does not guarantee his place at the 2026 World Cup in North America.

In the near future — no later than June 1 — the coach will have to make the final cut and determine the 26-man roster. There, Ney will compete for a place in a race where he does not have the advantage, having not been part of any previous call-up under Ancelotti.

In addition to Neymar’s inclusion, the preliminary list features another major storyline: the absence of Estevao. The young Chelsea winger was left out of the World Cup because of a serious muscle injury suffered in England weeks ago, joining a growing list of Brazilian stars ruled out, including Rodrygo Goes and Eder Militao.

Sebastian Soria’s inclusion in Qatar’s preliminary World Cup squad has sparked worldwide attention, particularly because of what his appearance at the tournament could mean for the history books. The Uruguay-born striker, who has spent more than two decades in Qatari soccer, now stands on the verge of achieving something no outfield player has ever managed at the World Cup.

According to reports surrounding Qatar’s squad announcement, Julen Lopetegui included the 42-year-old forward in a 34-man preliminary roster ahead of the tournament in North America. Qatar enters the 2026 tournament hoping for a stronger campaign after its difficult outing as host nation in 2022. The national team failed to progress from the group stage four years ago

However, there is now renewed optimism around a squad blending experienced leaders with emerging talents. Soria’s return has become one of the biggest talking points surrounding the squad. His international career appeared finished after 2017, and he was not selected for the 2022 World Cup despite the nation hosting the competition.

That changed late last year when Lopetegui brought him back into the national team picture during World Cup qualifying. The veteran striker came off the bench in a crucial 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates, immediately reminding supporters why he remained such a respected figure inside the camp.

The record that Soria could break instead of Ronaldo

The scale of the potential achievement became clearer once Qatar officially named him in the preliminary squad. At 42 years old, Sebastian Soria is now poised to become the oldest outfield player in World Cup history if he features during the 2026 tournament.

That record is currently held by Cameroon legend Roger Milla, who famously played at the 1994 World Cup in the United States at the age of 42. Milla’s achievement has stood untouched for more than three decades and has long been viewed as one of soccer’s untouchable longevity records.

Now Soria has a chance to surpass it. If he steps onto the field in the group stage, he would move ahead of Milla and establish a completely new benchmark for outfield players at the tournament.

What it means for Ronaldo at 2026 World Cup

The development also places extra attention on Cristiano Ronaldo’s own historic mission. The Portugal captain is expected to appear at his sixth World Cup at the age of 41, a feat matched by very few players in soccer history. Thus, if Soria does not participate in the 2026 World Cup or does not make the final squad of 26, Ronaldo will likely hold the record for the oldest player to compete at this year’s tournament.

Luka Modric is also set to join that elite company with Croatia, while Edin Dzeko could become another 40-year-old outfield player at the tournament. Together, they represent a remarkable generation of soccer continuing to compete at the highest level well into their forties.

According to reports from Footy Headlines and early mock-ups shared online, FIFA is preparing to introduce four different sleeve badge variations for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The change would mark one of the boldest visual redesigns FIFA has made to World Cup match apparel in recent years. For decades, World Cup sleeve patches have followed a relatively standard formula.

Every national team wore nearly identical tournament branding, with only small adjustments depending on jersey color. That tradition now appears set to change ahead of the biggest tournament ever staged. FIFA is reportedly introducing a system where the patch design will reflect both the color of a team’s shirt and whether the nation has previously won the World Cup.

The source claims that teams that have never lifted the trophy will wear standard black-and-white variants, while former world champions will receive exclusive gold-themed badges. The reported design structure includes four different combinations. Nations wearing light-colored kits without a World Cup title would use a black background with a white logo, while teams in darker kits would wear a white patch with black branding.

Meanwhile, countries with World Cup titles would receive a more prestigious version. Champions wearing lighter kits would use a gold patch with white details, while champions in darker shirts would receive a white patch featuring gold branding.

How the new patch could look on Messi, Yamal, and Pulisic

The concept has already sparked huge discussion online after mock-up images showed how the badges could appear on several of soccer’s biggest stars. Lionel Messi’s Argentina shirt would likely feature the champion-themed gold variation, reflecting the nation’s status as reigning world champion after the 2022 triumph in Qatar. The badge stands out sharply against La Albiceleste’s lighter shirt colors, giving the jersey a premium appearance.

Spain star Lamine Yamal would also wear the gold-edition patch because of La Roja’s World Cup success in 2010. Mock-ups suggest the badge creates a stronger contrast on Spain’s white kit and adds another layer of prestige to one of the fastest-rising stars.

Christian Pulisic and the United States national team, however, would wear the standard version because the country has never won the men’s World Cup. On the USMNT’s lighter shirt design, the patch is expected to feature a darker background with white tournament branding.

Croatia captain Luka Modric appears in another widely shared concept image. Since Croatia has never won the competition despite reaching the 2018 final and finishing third in 2022, the Balkan nation would also use the non-champion variant.

FIFA wants champions to stand out

The move would create a visible separation between former champions and nations still chasing their first title. If officially confirmed, this would be the first time FIFA has used a special tournament sleeve badge specifically to honor previous World Cup winners.

That symbolic distinction could become one of the defining visuals of the 2026 competition. Fans have already compared the idea to championship badges used in club football, where title winners often wear exclusive gold logos or special crests.

The report indicates that the overall patch design will still feature the FIFA World Cup trophy alongside the “2026” branding, meaning the core identity remains familiar while the color variations add a fresh twist.

Ângelo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after being substituted against Al Qadsiah, according to Ariyadhiah. Because of this, head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed his absence for Al Nassr’s clash against Al Hilal, raising doubts over whether he will be able to participate in the final two matches of the season. Whether as a midfielder or a winger, the Brazilian star is a key player for the team, making his absence a very significant blow.

In place of the young Brazilian, head coach Jorge Jesus could once again rely on Abdullah Alkhaibari in midfield and Sadio Mané on the left wing. Although Al Nassr have managed to maintain their strong form without Ângelo, they have still lost a key creative and structural piece, as he provides significant stability with his versatile box-to-box profile for the team.

Without Ângelo in the starting lineup, Al Nassr are placing all their hopes on the Marcelo Brozović–Abdullah Alkhaibari midfield pairing. However, this duo has proven to be significantly less consistent than when the Brazilian star is on the pitch, meaning the team’s defensive stability could be affected. Nevertheless, Iñigo Martínez could once again play a key role in balancing the side, acting as the leader of the defensive structure to counter Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal.

Ângelo becomes a transformative figure at Al Nassr

Under head coach Jorge Jesus, Ângelo has reached to transform into one of the most complete players in Al Nassr’s roster. Not only he can shine as winger, but he can also shine as midfielder, having a huge defensive impact. With his versatility and impressive talent, the 21-year-old star is one of the most important players of the team, having huge playing time and cemeting as a conerstone of the team’s future.

Having a contract until 2029, Al Nassr may need to improve soon his deal, avoiding his departure to Europe as some teams have already asked for his transfer. Not only a improved salary, but also a competitive project may be needed to convince Ângelo, as he would still have some time to play in top European leagues, but arriving as a consolidated star rather than a young talent.

Al Nassr aim to end a seven-year drought in the Saudi Pro League

With Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival, Al Nassr became one of the most media-driven clubs in the Middle East, leading to the arrival of several world-class players to strengthen the squad. After several years of sporting disappointment, Jorge Jesus managed to restore the team’s competitiveness, with them standing out offensively. They could even end a seven-year drought in the Saudi Pro League by defeating Al Hilal, despite the absence of Ângelo.

In the event of securing a victory today against Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal, Al Nassr could be crowned league champions, giving Cristiano Ronaldo his first official title with the club. Having last won a championship in 2019, Jorge Jesus would end a long trophy drought, cementing himself as a legendary figure at the club, especially as he could also go on to win the AFC Champions League Two in the coming days.

“I realized that it was time to retire in the middle of 2024. I started to see it and feel it; physically, I could continue, for sure, but mentally, I was struggling,” stated Martins in an exclusive World Soccer Talk interview. “I think that was the moment for me where I was starting to see that, ‘Yeah, I think it’s time.’ It was very difficult, it still is very difficult, but now I’m in a process where I have understood that soccer has given me so many things. People of soccer treated me in a certain way because of what I could provide, and because of who I am.”

“Friends that I’ve lost, I understood that they were there just because of what I could provide, and also who I was—even family. The reality is that after you retire, you basically have nothing to offer anymore, and people just disappear, you know? But it was a moment where I could connect more with myself and understand that nobody owes you anything. You just need to take care of yourself and always do the best for yourself, because people will always be just people. It’s a transactional relationship where you give something, and they give you something. It’s very difficult to find people who really like you for who you are, and not for what you can provide.”

Born on September 30, 1990, Martins was raised in Engenheiro Beltrão, Brazil, but left at the age of 10 to pursue his luck in Santa Catarina and then Rio de Janeiro, before eventually heading to Europe and joining Calcio Padova in 2008. However, he would play just five times before being diagnosed with a minor heart defect: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Unable to play in the league, Martins left the Italian third tier and, after a brief hiatus, made the move to Swiss outfit FC Winterthur. After bouncing around Switzerland at Winterthur, FC Lugano, and FC Wohlen, Martins headed across the Atlantic and joined MLS expansion side Montreal Impact (now CF Montréal), where he played alongside legendary defender Alessandro Nesta.

He established himself as a vital cog in midfield with 14 goals and 21 assists in 107 appearances, leading them to their first two trophies as an MLS club after winning the Canadian Championship in 2013 and 2014. Martins then reunited with ex-Montréal coach Jesse Marsch at the New York Red Bulls, where he registered 10 goals and 10 assists in 125 appearances and guided them to the 2015 Supporters’ Shield as well as a trip to the 2017 U.S. Open Cup Final, before returning to Canada ahead of the 2018 season.

After a fairly brief spell with the Vancouver Whitecaps, Martins then took his talents to D.C. United, where he cemented his status as the team’s midfield linchpin until tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in training on September 1, 2020. But rather than break, Martins merely bent and quickly reasserted himself as a leader in the Black and Red’s midfield.

“My proudest moment was when I came back from my injury, you know what I mean? I think it’s the moment that just solidified who I am and who I was. Coming from an injury is never easy, but I think I’ve done very well since I was injured, and I came back from my ACL injury in 2020. You lose speed, you lose explosiveness, but my part is just that it was tough mentally to overcome that challenge, and I think I did the best way I could at the moment.”

Martins then made the move to Austin FC in 2022, helping them reach the playoffs for the first time and make it all the way to the Conference Finals, earning praise from the likes of Troy Townsend for his performances, before eventually taking his talents to Orlando City. However, he struggled to make an impact in Florida due to a turbulent spell that saw him dropped to the reserves and that also saw him undergo a divorce, before deciding to head back to Brazil at the start of 2025.

After a swan song with FC Cascavel in the Brazilian fourth division, Martins announced his retirement on June 15, 2025. He’s spent the past year attending coaching courses as well as classes at Harvard Business School, in addition to balancing his time between private coaching and mentoring sessions, studying for his A License, and spending time with his two sons, Noah and Liam. And after starting his post-retirement in Orlando, he’s set for a new adventure in New York: he was announced as the head coach of MLS Next Pro club The Island F.C.’s under-17 and under-19 teams, as well as their Head of Player Development, on May 1.

The Island F.C. are expected to start their MLS Next Pro journey in spring 2027, with their games set to take place at a soccer-specific stadium to be built at the Mitchel Athletic Complex in Uniondale, New York.

“I think my coaching legacy will be the same as it was as a player. It’s an example of professionalism, strong-minded, and a team player, a guy who was extremely professional, and who made everyone around him better, either on and off the field, setting the standards, and really leading by example.”

The timing could hardly feel more delicate. Pulisic remains the face of American soccer heading into the biggest World Cup ever hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, yet questions around his fitness and form have suddenly placed enormous pressure on both club and country.

The past few months have been unusually frustrating for the Milan attacker. After beginning the season brilliantly, Pulisic has struggled to maintain the same rhythm in 2026. In fact, the American has not scored for the Rossoneri in Serie A since December 28 against Hellas Verona. Across the second half of the season, his confidence appeared to dip as the club’s own campaign became increasingly unstable.

Nerves were already high before the Rossoneri’s shocking 3-2 loss to Atalanta since Pulisic was out with a glute injury he sustained in the last practice. Initial fears immediately spread among supporters of both Milan and the United States.

The key update Milan and USMNT fans wanted to hear

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport’s report, the injury was viewed internally as precautionary. ESPN later revealed that the muscular issue was not believed to be serious, though medical checks were still scheduled because of the proximity to the World Cup.

As speculation intensified, a more encouraging update finally emerged from Italy ahead of Milan’s upcoming clash with Genoa. According to MilanNews.it, the 27-year-old is set to play in the upcoming Serie A match after no injuries have been found. Rehabilitation for him has already started.

That news certainly put the USMNT fans’ minds at ease. While Milan’s medical staff remains cautious, the latest indications suggest Pulisic avoided a major setback at the most critical stage of the season.

The timing matters enormously for both club and country. Milan remains locked in a tense race for UEFA Champions League qualification, while the United States national team cannot afford to lose its most recognizable player weeks before the World Cup begins.

Why Pulisic’s situation means so much to USMNT

Few players carry the same level of responsibility for their national side as Pulisic currently does for the United States. The 27-year-old forward has become the symbol of American soccer’s growth, appearing in major advertising campaigns, magazine covers, and global World Cup promotions ahead of the tournament.

On the field, however, recent performances have raised concerns. Pulisic has managed only one assist during the 2026 calendar year and admitted that things have not been clicking in recent months. “I know I’m going to get to the other side, and things are going to click,” he said earlier.

Match Overview

The Saudi Pro League title race reaches a critical moment as Al Nassr and Al Hilal collide in a matchup loaded with championship implications. Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr can secure the league crown with a victory.

On the other hand, Karim Benzema and Al Hilal know three points would cut the gap to two with a game still in hand, keeping the race alive until the final weeks. With the title hanging in the balance, this is a showdown fans will not want to miss.

The 41-year-old goalkeeper joined the Mexico camp this week to begin preparations for what is expected to be the final major tournament of his career. Ochoa, currently playing for AEL Limassol, arrived early at the High Performance Center in Mexico City and immediately reminded supporters why he remains such an iconic figure for El Tri.

For nearly two decades, Ochoa has represented the Mexican national team on soccer’s biggest stage. From Germany 2006 to Qatar 2022, the goalkeeper has repeatedly produced unforgettable moments, including his legendary performance against Brazil in 2014 and the penalty save against Robert Lewandowski in 2022.

Now, another chapter appears ready to unfold. If he steps onto the field during the 2026 World Cup, Ochoa will officially become one of the very few players in soccer history to appear at six different World Cups, joining the company of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The emotional weight of that possibility became clear after Ochoa shared a heartfelt message on social media before joining camp. The veteran goalkeeper admitted that this preparation period already feels different from every previous tournament in his extraordinary career.

What did Ochoa say?

“Putting this shirt back on was never routine… it was a privilege,” Ochoa wrote on social media. “Today marks the start of my final training camp. But this time, I see it differently. With a fuller heart, more scars, more memories… and the same excitement as that kid who once dreamed of defending this badge.”

Ochoa also hinted that the upcoming tournament could represent the closing chapter of his professional career. “I’ve lived through impossible nights, endless stadiums, anthems that still give me chills, and moments that changed my life forever,” he added. “And yet… every time Mexico calls, something inside me starts anew.”

Then came the line that resonated deeply with supporters throughout Mexico and beyond. “Maybe soccer measures the years. But passion never learned to count time.”

Joining Ronaldo and Messi in World Cup history and what it means

The 2026 event will be even more exciting since it might be the first time three iconic players from across the world achieve six World Cups in the same tournament. Ronaldo is expected to lead Portugal once again, while Messi remains central to the plans of the reigning world champion Argentina. Ochoa’s story feels different, however.

Unlike Ronaldo and Messi, whose careers have often revolved around global superstardom and Ballon d’Or awards, the Mexican goalkeeper built his reputation through resilience, spectacular saves, and unforgettable international performances. The veteran has earned more than 150 caps for El Tri and continues to command enormous respect within the national setup.

There is also growing belief that he remains determined to compete for the starting role despite his age. Questions continue surrounding whether he would start the opening World Cup match against South Africa, but few doubt his influence inside the dressing room.

One of the biggest storylines surrounding the derby remains the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. The former Real Madrid teammates are once again fighting for silverware, only now on opposite sides of Saudi Arabia’s biggest soccer rivalry.

Benzema’s arrival strengthened Al-Hilal significantly during the season and added another superstar dimension to the championship battle. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continues to lead from the front at 41 years old and recently reached another remarkable milestone.

Millions are expected to watch the match live as both teams battle for supremacy in Riyadh. Heading into Matchday 33, Al-Nassr sits first with 82 points from 32 matches, while Al-Hilal follows with 77 points from 31 matches and still holds a game in hand.

Jorge Jesus’ players have produced an outstanding campaign so far, winning 27 matches while scoring 86 goals and conceding only 26. Al-Hilal, meanwhile, remains unbeaten in league play this season, although eight draws have prevented the club from overtaking its rival at the summit.

What happens if Al-Nassr wins?

The significance of Tuesday’s derby becomes even clearer when examining the remaining fixtures. Al-Nassr will play one final league match after the derby, away against Damac, while Al-Hilal still has two more matches remaining because of its game in hand.

Al-Nassr’s victory over Al-Hilal would put Jorge Jesus’ team at 85 points, eight points ahead of Al-Hilal, and guarantee the Saudi Pro League championship. Any outcome versus Damac on the last Matchday would be irrelevant in that case.

Additionally, Ronaldo would win his first league championship in six years; his most recent domestic victory occurred with Juventus in 2020. Since arriving in Riyadh, he has collected goals, records, and global headlines, but the league title has remained the one major prize still missing.

What happens if the match ends in a draw?

A draw would keep Al-Nassr in control of the race, although tension would remain until the final days of the season. Al-Nassr would move to 83 points, while Al-Hilal would rise to 78 with two matches still left against Neom and Al-Fayha. For Ronaldo to win the league, all he would need is a tie in Al-Nassr’s last game.

However, this scenario would leave the door slightly open for Al-Hilal, but Simone Inzaghi’s side would still need to win the next two games. The pressure would then shift toward Ronaldo and his teammates to avoid any mistake against Damac in its final league fixture.

For the visitors, even a draw would preserve hope because of the extra fixture. The Blue Waves surely understand that remaining unbeaten this deep into the campaign still gives the club a realistic chance to complete a late comeback.

What happens if Al-Hilal wins?

The entire title race could be flipped upside down if Al-Hilal leaves Al Awwal Park with all three points. A victory for Al-Hilal would reduce the gap to only two points, while the club would still possess a game in hand against Neom.

Should Al-Hilal then defeat both Neom and Al-Fayha, the club could finish the season on 86 points. Even if Al-Nassr wins against Damac afterward and reaches 85 points, it would not be enough. With no league titles to his name since his arrival in the Middle East, Ronaldo would be the only one who loses in this hypothetical situation.

Following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, Alvaro Arbeloa has struggled to maintain authority over a fractured dressing room, with a string of controversies exposing deep tensions within the squad. Brawls involving Alvaro Carreras and Antonio Rudiger, the reported incident in which Aurelien Tchouameni sent Federico Valverde to the hospital, and Kylian Mbappe’s unauthorized trips out of Spain have all contributed to a squad environment that has steadily eroded the interim coach’s standing.

As recently reported by The Athletic, Real Madrid‘s president Florentino Perez has identified Jose Mourinho as his top target for the head coaching position heading into next season. While other names, including Mauricio Pochettino, Jürgen Klopp and Massimiliano Allegri, have been mentioned, reports indicate that preliminary discussions have already taken place between the club and Mourinho’s representatives.

Mourinho dismisses Real Madrid contact

Currently at Benfica, Mourinho is focused on finishing the 2025-26 campaign with a Champions League qualification spot, with the club sitting third and two points behind Sporting CP. The swirling speculation about a potential return to Real Madrid, the club he managed between 2010 and 2013, has already reached him and the press in Portugal.

At his pre-match press conference ahead of Benfica’s game against Braga on Sunday, Mourinho flatly denied any contact with Real Madrid: “I want to clarify one thing. In football, it is not the professionals who decide if they have an interest in leaving or staying. When something happens, it is the clubs that show interest and initiate—or don’t—the procedures to sign the people they want. There is continued talk about Real Madrid, and I continue to sincerely avoid the subject. I have had no contact with the president or any other club director.”

Mourinho also made clear the terms under which he would be willing to explore his options after the season concludes. “At the end of the season, I don’t talk to anyone. I haven’t had any contact with Real Madrid and I won’t have any until after the final league match against Estoril. After that, there is a one-week period in which I will have the freedom to speak with whomever I deem appropriate,” he explained.

Mourinho’s demands to become Real Madrid’s next coach

Mourinho signed with Benfica in September 2025 on a contract running through June 2027, which reportedly includes a release clause worth three million euros, active for a ten-day window following the club’s final game of the season. Despite that, Real Madrid’s leadership is intent on pursuing him, though the Portuguese coach has already outlined what he would need before agreeing to return to the Spanish capital.

According to Diario AS, Mourinho’s first demand is to have meaningful input on the club’s transfer strategy, not in terms of naming specific targets, but in identifying the positions that need to be strengthened. His early assessment of the squad has led him to conclude that the current group is significantly unbalanced across different areas of the pitch, with the midfield standing out as the most pressing area of concern.

The second condition, as reported by the Spanish outlet, relates to the structure and authority within the club. While Mourinho is mindful of Real Madrid’s institutional hierarchy, he is insistent that the first-team’s footballing decisions fall exclusively within the remit of him and his coaching staff, eager to avoid the kind of institutional friction that reportedly undermined the relationship between the club and Vinicius Junior during Alonso’s tenure.

While Mbappe’s debut season in Spain showed promise, highlighted by a Golden Boot despite the club missing out on major silverware, expectations for his sophomore year were sky-high. However, despite a prolific start in the Champions League, Los Blancos have faltered across all competitions, resulting in their first trophyless season in recent memory.

Recent incidents have only fanned the flames, including a controversial trip to Italy while allegedly nursing an injury and a last-minute withdrawal from the recent El Clasico. Fans were further incensed by a poorly timed “Hala Madrid” Instagram post made while the team was already trailing 2-0 to Barcelona, a move widely viewed as tone-deaf as rivals celebrated a title on Madrid’s doorstep.

The relationship has deteriorated to the point where, according to The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana, Mbappe is believed to want to “avoid playing at the Santiago Bernabeu again” for the remainder of the season. The player is reportedly shaken by the consistent boos and whistles directed at him by the home crowd during recent outings.

If this stance holds, Mbappe would feature in just one of Real Madrid’s three remaining matches this season. The club hosts Real Oviedo on May 14 followed by a season finale against Athletic Bilbao at the Bernabeu, with only a road trip to Sevilla on May 17 offering a respite from the hostile home environment.

Statistically, Mbappe remains a force, tallying 41 goals and six assists in 41 games this season and reaching 100 total appearances for the club. Yet, the standard at Real Madrid transcends mere box scores; for the Madridismo, trophies and perceived commitment to the badge are the only currencies that matter, and Mbappe is currently bankrupt in both.

‘Mbappe Out’ online petition reaches 70 million signatures

The friction between the star and the stands began as early as the 2024-25 season, when both Mbappe and Vinicius Junior were criticized for a lack of defensive work rate under then-coach Carlo Ancelotti. That lingering frustration eventually manifested in the “Mbappe Out” website, a fan-driven platform dedicated to calling for the Frenchman’s departure.

While the petition lacks a formal verification process for its signatories, the numbers are nonetheless staggering. After originally setting a modest goal of 200,000 signatures, the count has reportedly skyrocketed past 70 million.

While a digital petition has no legal bearing on Mbappe’s lucrative contract, the sheer volume of the movement serves as a loud indictment of his standing in the Spanish capital. It is a glaring symptom of a fractured relationship that may have already reached the point of no return.

According to Ramón Sánchez del Mon, a journalist specialized in Real Madrid, Federico Valverde’s conflict with Aurélien Tchouaméni has caused him to lose support within the locker room. Due to his repeated poor attitudes, several important los Blancos stars have requested his departure. Because of this, the Uruguayan’s continuity at the club may not be entirely guaranteed, meaning the next head coach would have to manage this dilemma.

As one of Real Madrid’s captains and best players, Federico Valverde may ultimately remain at the club. Amid a disappointing season, the Uruguayan star has managed to score nine goals and provide 13 assists, making him one of the team’s most productive players. In addition, he is one of the players who contributes the most defensively, balancing out the defensive gaps left by Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Neither Jude Bellingham nor Arda Güler could replicate Federico Valverde’s profile in midfield. While Real Madrid have several midfielders in the squad, the Uruguayan star is the only true box-to-box player, capable of balancing the team and playing in multiple positions across the pitch. Therefore, Los Blancos could be forced to sign another player with a similar profile, something that would make little sense given how few players are capable of matching his consistency.

Valverde’s possible departure may boost power of Real Madrid stars

Throughout the season, the egos and excessive power of Real Madrid’s players have caused numerous problems. Following Xabi Alonso’s departure, Federico Valverde’s potential exit would only send one message to the players: They are in charge—something that has never happened on this team. Not even legends like Sergio Ramos or Cristiano Ronaldo managed to outmaneuver the team’s management, which prioritizes the collective over the individual.

Recognizing this growing problem of egos and power struggles, Real Madrid’s front office are reportedly searching for a winning head coach with extensive experience managing difficult locker rooms. Because of this, Valverde’s departure may not make much sense if the club’s objective is to bring in a leader capable of handling the dressing room. With this in mind, the Uruguayan star is expected to remain with the team, although his captaincy could indeed be at risk.

Real Madrid’s dressing room issues may be solved with José Mourinho

Unlike Xabi Alonso or Álvaro Arbeloa, José Mourinho become as a legendary Real Madrid manager, rebuilding a difficult era and restoring unity within the locker room. Having managed true soccer legends, the Portuguese coach could easily control the egos inside the squad, something he already achieved with Iker Casillas, whom he benched in favor of Diego López. For that reason, he may emerge as the top contender for the head coach spot.

With the support of the front office, Mourinho could become the unquestioned leader of the locker room. Because of this, egos and personal conflicts would have to be set aside, or those involved could be pushed out of the team, something Real Madrid seemingly need right now. For this reason, tensions between players could disappear, with the club aiming to become a competitive team again like they were a few years ago.

Currently trailing Al Nassr by five points, Al Hilal hold a critical advantage with a game in hand. While Ronaldo’s side has only two fixtures remaining, Benzema’s squad has three, creating a must-win scenario for the visitors to keep their title hopes alive. If Al Nassr secure the victory on home turf, they will mathematically end the race and be crowned champions.

Following the high-stakes derby at Al Awwal Park on Tuesday, May 12, Al Nassr will have only one remaining league fixture against Damac FC on May 21. Conversely, Al Hilal will have two games left, a May 16 meeting with Neom SC and a season finale against Al Fayha, meaning a win over Ronaldo’s side would put the Blue Waves in a position to control their own destiny.

Theo Hernandez and Yassine Bounou cleared for Al Hilal

In major team news, former AC Milan standout Theo Hernandez and Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou have been confirmed as available for Simone Inzaghi’s squad. Both players have been foundational to Al Hilal’s campaign, contributing to a remarkable run that has seen the club suffer only one defeat across 45 matches this season.

Concern over Hernandez’s fitness surfaced during the King’s Cup final against Al Kholood on May 8, when the Frenchman was forced off in the 83rd minute with an apparent injury. However, per Al Arriyadiyah, subsequent medical examinations revealed the issue was minor, clearing the defender to participate in tomorrow’s winner-take-all Derby.

Koulibaly stands as the only major absence

With only one month remaining before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, neither Ronaldo nor Benzema are considering rest with such a massive trophy on the line. However, Al Hilal will have to navigate this clash without defensive anchor Kalidou Koulibaly, an absence that could tip the scales in Al Nassr’s favor.

Koulibaly has reportedly failed to reach full fitness as he continues his rehabilitation for a thigh injury sustained just before the team traveled to Jeddah for the AFC Champions League Elite knockout rounds. He remains sidelined alongside Hamad Al Yami, who is recovering from knee surgery, leaving Inzaghi with a significant void to fill in the heart of his defense.

Al Nassr will host Al Hilal at Al Awwal Park on Tuesday, May 12, for Matchday 32 of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League campaign. Ronaldo’s side currently sits in first place with 82 points through 32 games, while Benzema’s squad trails with 77 points in 31 games; a home victory would mathematically secure the title for Al Nassr.

With the championship on the line, Ronaldo took to social media to deliver a personal message to the supporters expected to pack Al Awwal Park.. “Your support has pushed us every single week. In the stadium, at home and everywhere around the world. That energy is with us on the pitch,” the legendary striker wrote.

“Let’s make it count. For us. For you. For Nassr. See you tomorrow,” Ronaldo concluded. The home-field advantage has been undeniable this season, as Al Nassr have claimed all three points in 14 of their 15 league matches played at Al Awwal Park.

The club’s only blemish at home came back on January 8, a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Al Qadsiah. Despite that lone slip-up, the nearly perfect home record has defined their 25-26 campaign, and Ronaldo is eager to harness that atmosphere one more time for a potentially historic night.

Ronaldo and Benzema: Face to face once again

After spending nine years together at Real Madrid as part of the lethal “BBC” trio alongside Gareth Bale, the Frenchman and the Portuguese icon meet again as rivals in Saudi Arabia. The two superstars have faced off six times since arriving in the kingdom, maintaining a perfectly balanced head-to-head record that could be broken tomorrow.

Since Benzema‘s initial move to Saudi Arabia in 2023, he has claimed three victories over Ronaldo, while the Portuguese star has matched him with three wins of his own. Ronaldo holds the slight edge in individual production during these matchups with four goals and an assist, while Benzema has recorded three goals and one helper in these high-stakes encounters.

This clash carries extra intrigue as it marks Benzema’s first game since joining Al Hilal, following rumors of Ronaldo’s attempts to block the Frenchman’s move to his club’s biggest rivals. Ronaldo currently holds a difficult record against Al Hilal with six losses in nine games, but with the SPL title up for grabs, he will be desperate to flip the script.

Last Thursday, Atletico Madrid released a statement confirming that Cardoso sustained an ankle injury during a training session that he was unable to complete, immediately setting off alarm bells within the USMNT camp. “Johnny Cardoso suffers a high-grade sprain in his right ankle,” the official statement from the Spanish club read.

Following the initial diagnosis, Atletico outlined the next steps for the midfielder as he entered the final phase of the 2025-26 season. “He will undergo physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions in the gym, and the progress of his recovery will determine his return to competition,” the club stated.

However, the outlook darkened significantly on Monday when Atletico Madrid reported that the injury was more severe than initially feared, involving joint damage. “Johnny Cardoso will have to undergo surgery to address the injury to his right ankle,” the updated statement read, delivering a heartbreaking update on the midfielder’s condition just weeks before the World Cup opener.

With Cardoso now forced to undergo a surgical procedure, his timeline for a return has effectively ended his World Cup dreams. As reported by Ben Jacobs, the USMNT has remained in constant contact with the club, but sources from Atletico Madrid expect the midfielder to miss the tournament and target a return during the European preseason.

Cardoso to miss second consecutive World Cup

Since his debut in 2020, Johnny Cardoso has been viewed as a cornerstone of the next generation of USMNT talent, a status solidified by his high-profile move to Atletico Madrid. However, persistent injuries have plagued the midfielder, frequently sidelining him during the early stages of the Pochettino era.

Cardoso’s fitness struggles began early in Pochettino’s tenure, as a knee injury forced him out of the manager’s first camp in October 2024. Since then, Pochettino has overseen 24 USMNT matches, yet Cardoso has only been able to feature in six of them, logging just 212 minutes and failing to establish a consistent rhythm in the central midfield.

During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Cardoso was left off the roster as a 21-year-old still developing at Brazilian side Internacional. Now 24 and reaching his prime in Spain, the midfielder faces the devastating reality of missing a second consecutive World Cup just as he seemed poised to play a major role for his country.

“I don’t know who said that (about his retirement after the 2026 World Cup). I think it came from Colombia just to get views. They should inform themselves a little better about those things. The only person who will know how long I want to keep playing is me, and when the time comes, I will announce it (a retirement) well in advance. But I still think I have a couple of years left. Everything being said is false, and it harms the entire country,” James Rodríguez said, via MLS Español.

Although head coach Cameron Knowles has never decided to rely on James as a central figure, he has already shown that he is capable of transforming the team’s reality. Coming off the bench, he delivered two key assists to secure a draw against Austin FC, organizing the team offensively. After regaining his competitive rhythm, the 34-year-old could look to silence his critics by shining in the limited minutes he may receive over the next two matches.

Despite his secondary role at Minnesota United, James Rodríguez is expected to be a starter with Colombia at the 2026 World Cup. Head coach Néstor Lorenzo has always managed to bring out his best version, reducing his defensive workload and making him the team’s creative focal point. Unlike previous eras, the 34-year-old star has taken on a different role, focusing on elevating Luis Díaz in attack, which has become his main responsibility on the pitch.

James Rodríguez reportedly set to leave Minnesota United

Minnesota United have still not managed to be crowned MLS champions, which is why the signing of James Rodríguez seemed key to boosting the team’s offensive performances. Nevertheless, head coach Cameron Knowles has decided not to include him in the starting lineup, opting for Tomás Chancalay instead. Because of this, he has played just 210 minutes over four months, becoming a secondary player.

According to Antonella González, via MLS Español, James Rodríguez will not continue at Minnesota United, meaning he could arrive at the 2026 World Cup without a defined professional future. Far from being a problem, the Colombian star would have another great opportunity to attract the attention of several clubs, as he looks to finish the final years of his career with a prominent role rather than being relegated to the bench.

James Rodríguez may return to South-American leagues

After the 2026 World Cup, James Rodríguez may choose not to pursue a return to MLS or Europe, as he has struggled to shine consistently in recent years. Instead, he could opt for a return to South American leagues, with the Argentine league emerging as one of the strongest possibilities, especially after failing to stand out in Brazil with São Paulo. Nevertheless, he may need to give up a significant amount of salary, as it could become difficult for him to find a new team otherwise.

“At Al Hilal, unfortunately, I had people who did not tell me the truth. They told me I was going to be registered for the Saudi league list and then, when the time came, they did not do it. After that, I’m always the one left with the bad image… but at least I keep my word, and I would not trade it for anything. I have always been the same way. I am straightforward and I do not hold grudges against anyone,” Barcelona star Joao Cancelo said, via DAZN.

Cancelo was left out of Al Hilal’s sporting project, but he remains under contract until 2027, meaning he would have to return. Nevertheless, they are not willing to let him leave as a free agent, and they are reportedly demanding €15 million for his transfer. Acknowledging his obligation to return to the Saudi Arabian team, he has stated that he holds no grudges, meaning he could even reintegrate into the squad if they resolve the foreign-player quota dilemma.

Even though João Cancelo arrived without being at his best physically, head coach Hansi Flick has managed to bring back his best version. With his versatility and vision, he has become a starter, leading Barcelona to consider signing him permanently. In addition, he has made it clear that he is very happy with the Blaugranas, meaning he would be willing to make sacrifices to make the move happen.

João Cancelo’s future could hinge on the 2026 World Cup

With no room for him at Al Hilal and Barcelona unwilling to pay for his transfer, João Cancelo could arrive at the 2026 World Cup with Portugal without his professional future secured. Although Nuno Mendes is shining at left-back, head coach Roberto Martínez could take advantage of Cancelo’s strong form and deploy him at right-back, where he would look to attract interest from more clubs and decide his future.

After rediscovering his best form, head coach Hansi Flick could be eager to keep João Cancelo, but only if he arrives as a free agent. Nevertheless, the Portuguese defender has also opened the door to SL Benfica, making it clear that he would lower his salary if necessary. Should he shine as a starter at the World Cup, he could attract the attention of more top European clubs, meaning he would essentially be playing for his professional future.

Far from having a guaranteed starting spot, Cancelo must compete with Diogo Dalot and Nuno Mendes for prominence, as they have been the usual choices for head coach Roberto Martínez during the UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Nevertheless, João is now back at his best physically, something that had not been the case in the national team’s previous matches, emerging as a strong option.

When Stefano Pioli departed last summer, Ronaldo used his influence following his contract renewal in June 2025 to help reshape the club’s direction, and one of the most consequential decisions was the choice of the next head coach. As Jesus himself has revealed, Ronaldo called him personally to take the job at Al Nassr after his stint at Al Hilal, an offer the coach accepted on a one-year deal.

That short-term arrangement is now at the center of the uncertainty. At Monday’s press conference ahead of the pivotal clash against Al Hilal that could decide the Saudi Pro League title, Jesus was asked directly about the possibility of renewing his contract. “As I have always done with my previous teams, I sign one-year contracts,” he said.

The Portuguese manager then revealed that other clubs have been in contact, leaving the door firmly open for a departure. “Fortunately, I have offers from many clubs. It is possible that I may not renew my contract with Al Nassr, and it is also possible that the club may not want me next season. I will evaluate everything at the end of the season,” he added.

The partnership between Ronaldo and Jesus has been a productive one for both parties, with the manager giving the forward carefully managed rest periods to ensure he arrives at the 2026 World Cup in peak condition. Jesus also set a new record for the longest winning streak in Al Nassr’s history, both in the Saudi Pro League at 16 games and across all competitions at 20.

With Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman and Iñigo Martinez among the standout signings of the summer, Jesus is now on the brink of ending Al Nassr’s long wait for silverware, with both the SPL title and the AFC Champions League Two within reach. For Ronaldo, whose contract runs through June 2027, an eventual Jesus departure would mean yet another managerial transition during what could prove to be the final year of his professional career.

Jesus focused on winning the SPL

From the outset of the campaign, with Al Nassr absent from the AFC Champions League Elite, the Saudi Pro League became the primary domestic focus. The team made the best-ever start in the club’s league history, winning each of the first 11 games, before three consecutive defeats temporarily knocked them off the top of the table.

After sliding to third place in late January, Al Nassr clawed their way back to the summit in late February and have not relinquished it since. “Our mindset since the beginning of the league has been to win only. Two matches remain, and our focus is on winning both of them,” Jesus said, with Al Hilal and Damac FC standing between Ronaldo and company and the title.

“We want the best players to be there and Neymar, no matter his form, will always be one of them. It would be wonderful to see him at the World Cup because of what he means to Brazil and to soccer. I hope he can be there, but I can’t be objective, because he always has to be there. I can’t be objective. Neymar is a friend. Obviously, I’d love for him to be at the World Cup, for good things to happen to him because he deserves it for the kind of person he is,” Messi said, via Lo del Pollo.

Although his return to Santos FC was somewhat complicated, Neymar Jr. has gradually regained his full physical form. Following his knee surgery, he has remained an undisputed starter, scoring 6 goals and recording 3 assists in 13 games. Beyond the statistics, the veteran star has managed to remain a creative force, bringing out the best in his teammates. Due to his high level of play, he has reportedly been included on the preliminary list for the 2026 World Cup.

Unlike previous editions, Brazil seem to have found their ideal team under Carlo Ancelotti. Relying on collective play and an offensive approach, they appear to be gradually recovering their best version. Despite this, Neymar Jr. still has a chance of making the final squad, although in a secondary role, as Matheus Cunha appears to be the starter. Nevertheless, the 34-year-old star would face the challenge of maintaining his physical condition at its peak.

Neymar Jr. could unlock Vinicius Jr. best form at 2026 World Cup

Brazil have managed to improve their performances considerably, but they still leave many doubts against national teams such as France. With this in mind, Neymar Jr.’s possible presence would be key to transforming the attack, which lacks a difference-maker capable of creating chances for the forwards. In addition, he could help bring out the best version of Vinicius Jr. at the 2026 World Cup.

Matheus Cunha is the starting attacking midfielder for Carlo Ancelotti. Nevertheless, he has not managed to elevate the performances of João Pedro or Vinicius Jr. If Brazil choose to use Neymar Jr. as an impact substitute, he could speed up the team’s collective play with his brilliant passing and vision, something he continues to do at Santos FC. In addition, he would look to make the most of what could be his final World Cup.

With Neymar on field, Vinicius Jr. could have more opportunities to shine with his pace and dribbling, something he has not had alongside Cunha. In addition, both have shown they share a strong connection, which could become the key for the 2026 World Cup. Alongside this, the 34-year-old veteran could serve as the locker room leader amid a very young roster.

Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, when the Herons will be visiting FC Cincinnati in the MLS at the TQL Stadium. The Argentine legend enters the fixture after netting one goal and delivering two assists in the 4-2 away win against Toronto FC.

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 13 official matches so far across all competitions, scoring 10 goals with three assist registered thus far. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title

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

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

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

Ángel Di María remained firm in his retirement from the national team, ruling out a return to play in the 2026 edition. Nevertheless, Lionel Messi decided to continue with Argentina, shining in the Qualifiers from both a scoring and creative standpoint. Because of this, the 38-year-old star has been included in the preliminary squad, aiming to be an undisputed starter in his sixth participation in the tournament.

Lionel Scaloni has shown that he is carrying out a generational transition in Argentina, including young players in the preliminary squad such as Santiago Castro, José Manuel López, Mateo Pellegrino, Nicolás Paz, and others. In addition, the head coach has given several youngsters a prominent role during the latest friendly matches, looking for them to make a difference either as substitutes or starters for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.

Despite the inclusion of the youngsters, Argentina are keeping their veteran core, retaining Emiliano Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo de Paul, and Nicolás Otamendi, who are all expected to be starters in what could be their final World Cup edition. Alongside them, Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez are set to complement Lionel Messi in attack, as he pursues his second consecutive title.

6 World Cup champions from Qatar will miss the 2026 World Cup

Argentina have already begun rebuilding their roster, aiming to remain competitive for the 2030 edition. With this in mind, head coach Lionel Scaloni has decided to leave Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, Alejandro Gómez, and Ángel Correa off the preliminary 2026 roster, despite they have not announced their retirement from the national team. While Angel Di Maria and Franco Armani are also absent, they chose not to return to the national team.

Argentina’s full preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup

Head coach Lionel Scaloni has decided to rely on a preliminary squad with very few changes compared to what we have seen in the latest matches. Blending Qatar-winning veterans with young players, Argentina are aiming to become champions of the 2026 edition, with Lionel Messi leading the attack once again. Here is the full official list.

Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez – Aston Villa, Gerónimo Rulli – Olympique De Marsella, Juan Musso – Atlético De Madrid, Walter Benítez – Crystal Palace, Facundo Cambeses – Racing Club, Santiago Beltran – River Plate

Defenders: Agustín Giay – Palmeiras , Gonzalo Montiel – River Plate, Nahuel Molina – Atlético De Madrid, Nicolás Capaldo – Hamburgo Sv, Kevin Mac Allister – Union Saint Gilloise, Lucas Martinez Quarta – River Plate, Marcos Senesi – Bournemounth, Lisandro Martínez – Manchester United, Nicolás Otamendi – Sl Benfica, Germán Pezzella – River Plate, Leonardo Balerdi – Olympique De Marsella, Cristian Romero – Tottenham Hotspur, Lautaro Di Lollo – Boca Juniors, Zaid Romero – Getafe Cf, Facundo Medina – Olympique De Marsella, Marcos Acuña – River Plate, Nicolás Tagliafico – Olympique De Lyon, Gabriel Rojas – Racing Club.

Midfielders/Forwards: Máximo Perrone – Calcio Como 1907, Leandro Paredes – Boca Juniors, Guido Rodríguez – Valencia Cf, Aníbal Moreno – River Plate, Milton Delgado – Boca Juniors, Alan Varela – Fc Porto, Ezequiel Fernández – Bayer Leverkusen, Rodrigo De Paul – Inter De Miami, Exequiel Palacios – Bayer Leverkusen, Enzo Fernández – Chelsea, Alexis Mac Allister – Liverpool, Giovani Lo Celso – Real Betis, Nicolás Domínguez – Nottingham Forest, Emiliano Buendia – Aston Villa, Valentín Barco – Racing Club De Estrasburgo, Lionel Messi – Inter De Miami, Nicolás Paz – Calcio Como 1907, Franco Mastantuono – Real Madrid, Thiago Almada – Atlético De Madrid, Tomás Aranda – Boca Juniors, Nicolás González – Atlético De Madrid, Alejandro Garnacho – Chelsea, Giuliano Simeone – Atlético De Madrid, Matías Soulé – As Roma, Claudio Echeverri – Girona Fútbol Club, Gianluca Prestianni – Sl Benfica, Santiago Castro – Bologna, Lautaro Martínez – Internazionale De Milán, José Manuel López – Palmeiras, Julián Álvarez – Atlético De Madrid, Mateo Pellegrino – Parma Calcio.

Match Overview

Tottenham enters this critical home fixture in a desperate fight for Premier League survival. Hovering just one point above the relegation zone, the pressure is immense. Despite a dismal home record that has seen them fail to win in their last nine matches at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a recent surge under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, marked by two consecutive away victories, has injected a sliver of hope into their campaign. For Spurs, this match isn’t just about three points; it’s about defying their season-long struggles in front of their own fans to secure their top-flight status.

Conversely, Leeds United travels to London with the luxury of security. Comfortably positioned in 14th place, Daniel Farke‘s squad is free from the anxieties of the relegation battle. They arrive in exceptional form, currently riding a six-match unbeaten streak that includes three straight wins. Playing without pressure, Leeds poses a significant threat, eager to cap off a successful season by extending their impressive run and exploiting the vulnerabilities of a high-stakes opponent.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The season trajectories of these two clubs could not be more different. Tottenham has endured a shockingly poor campaign, unexpectedly finding themselves in a relegation scrap. The recent arrival of Roberto De Zerbi has sparked a tactical shift and a much-needed boost in results, but their survival remains precarious. In contrast, Leeds overcame early-season struggles after a pivotal tactical switch to a 3-5-2 formation in November, transforming their season and securing their safety with games to spare.

The tactical battle will likely be decided by Tottenham‘s newfound aggression against Leeds‘ established system. Under De Zerbi, Spurs have become a high-pressing unit, leading the league in final third ball recoveries over the last four games. This intense approach will test the resilience of Leeds‘ 3-5-2, a formation that has made them a potent, high-scoring side. The game will be won or lost in how effectively Spurs can disrupt Leeds‘ midfield and counter their offensive threats, particularly Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Motivation is the defining factor in this clash. For Tottenham, desperation is the primary driver. With their Premier League status hanging by a thread, every tackle and every attack carries immense weight, especially in a home stadium where they have consistently failed. Leeds, free from such pressures, is motivated by professionalism and the desire to continue their excellent form. Their relaxed but confident approach could be the perfect antidote to Tottenham‘s high-anxiety environment.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been dominated by Tottenham. Spurs have won the last five consecutive meetings against Leeds, establishing a clear psychological advantage. This run of dominance includes a 2-1 victory at Elland Road earlier in the season, reinforcing their ability to get results against this specific opponent.

Recent encounters have been consistently high-scoring and entertaining affairs. Across the last five matchups, Tottenham has emerged victorious with scorelines of 2-1, 4-1, 4-3, 4-0, and 2-1. This pattern highlights not only Spurs‘ offensive prowess in this fixture but also a defensive vulnerability, as they have only kept one clean sheet in that span.

The data points towards goals. An incredible average of 4.4 goals per game has been scored in the last five head-to-head clashes. Furthermore, both teams have found the back of the net in four of those five games. Bettors should note that Tottenham has scored at least two goals in each of their last five victories over Leeds, making a multi-goal performance a strong historical trend.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Tottenham is grappling with a severe injury crisis at the worst possible time, while Leeds arrives with a relatively healthy and stable squad.

Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi is contending with a lengthy list of absentees for this crucial match. Key players including Cristian Romero, Xavi Simons, and Mohammed Kudus are out for the remainder of the season. The attack is particularly thin, with Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski injured, leaving Richarlison and Randal Kolo Muani as the only available senior forwards. This lack of depth severely limits De Zerbi‘s tactical flexibility.

Leeds, in contrast, faces far fewer personnel issues. While Ilia Gruev and Gabriel Gudmundsson are sidelined, manager Daniel Farke has an otherwise full-strength squad to choose from. Given their outstanding recent form, Farke is expected to field a similar lineup to the one that secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Burnley in their last outing, relying on a consistent and confident group of players.

Tottenham Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Kinsky; Udogie, M. van de Ven, Danso, Pedro Porro; Bentancur, Palhinha; Tel, Gallagher, Kolo Muani; Richarlison.
De Zerbi is likely to stick with the same eleven that earned a vital win against Aston Villa. This lineup features a robust midfield trio designed to press aggressively and control possession, a hallmark of the new manager’s tactical philosophy.

Leeds Projected XI (3-4-2-1):
Darlow; Struijk, Bijol, Rodon; Justin, Ampadu, Tanaka, Bogle; Okafor, Stach; Calvert-Lewin.
This formation has been the bedrock of Leeds‘ success in the second half of the season. It provides defensive solidity while allowing attacking midfielders Noah Okafor and Anton Stach to support the in-form striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

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According to UOL Esporte, Ancelotti already has his preliminary list of 55 players finalized, including Neymar Jr. and Thiago Silva, who have not played a prominent role since his arrival. With both shining at Santos and FC Porto, respectively, Carlo has decided to open the door to a possible return to the national team for the 2026 World Cup, due to their strong form and numerous injuries.

Despite his inclusion in the preliminary list, neither of the two has a guaranteed place with Brazil. Thiago Silva has numerous players ahead of him, with Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Bremer, and Léo Pereira standing out the most due to their prominence at their clubs and their experience under Carlo Ancelotti. In addition, the 41-year-old defender does not provide the versatility to play as a full-back that the head coach desires so much, raising serious doubts.

Neymar Jr. also faces a very complex challenge, as he has plenty of competition to secure a spot. Endrick, Igor Thiago, and Rayan all seem to be gaining momentum with Brazil, as they are shining both at their clubs and under Carlo Ancelotti. Nevertheless, the vast experience of the 34-year-old star could prove decisive, as he is now excelling as a creative attacking midfielder, elevating his teammates—something that could be key to his return with Brazil.

When was the last time Neymar Jr. and Thiago Silva played for Brazil?

Neymar Jr. and Thiago Silva managed to shine as Brazil’s leaders over the last 10 years, serving as captains and central figures in the locker room. Nevertheless, both have stopped being key pieces for the national team. On one hand, the 34-year-old winger’s last appearance came on October 18, 2023, in the 2–0 defeat against Venezuela. On the other hand, the 41-year-old defender’s last appearance came on December 9, 2022, in the defeat against Croatia at the 2022 World Cup.

Brazil’s reported full preliminary squad 2026 World Cup

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool-ENG), Ederson (Fenerbahçe-TUR), Bento (Al-Nassr-SAU), Hugo Souza (Corinthians), John (Nottingham Forest-ENG), Carlos Miguel (Palmeiras)

Defenders: Marquinhos (PSG-FRA), Thiago Silva (Porto), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal-ENG), Bremer (Juventus-ITA), Léo Pereira (Flamengo), Ibañez (Al-Ahli-SAU), Alexsandro (Lille-FRA), Fabrício Bruno (Cruzeiro), Beraldo (PSG-FRA), Vitor Reis (Girona-ESP), Murillo (Nottingham Forest-ENG)

Right Backs:, Wesley (Roma-ITA), Danilo (Flamengo), Paulo Henrique (Vasco), Vitinho (Botafogo)
Left Backs: Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Douglas Santos (Zenit-RUS), Luciano Juba (Bahia), Caio Henrique (Monaco-FRA), Kaiki (Cruzeiro), Carlos Augusto (Inter de Milão-ITA)

Midfielders: Casemiro (Manchester United-ENG), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle-ENG), Fabinho (Al-Ittihad-SAU), Andrey Santos (Chelsea-ENG), Danilo (Botafogo), Lucas Paquetá (Flamengo), Gabriel Sara (Galatasaray-TUR), João Gomes (Wolverhampton-ENG), Andreas Pereira (Palmeiras), Joelinton (Newcastle-ENG), Gerson (Cruzeiro), Matheus Pereira (Cruzeiro)

Forwards: Vini Jr. (Real Madrid-ESP), Raphinha (Barcelona-ESP), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United-ENG), Luiz Henrique (Zenit-RUS), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal-ENG), João Pedro (Chelsea-ENG), Estêvão (Chelsea-ENG), Neymar (Santos), Endrick (Lyon-FRA), Rayan (Bournemouth-ENG), Antony (Real Bétis-ESP), Igor Thiago (Brentford-ENG), Pedro (Flamengo), Richarlison (Tottenham-ENG), Igor Jesus (Nottingham Forest-ENG), Kaio Jorge (Cruzeiro)

With Lamine Yamal sidelined through injury and Raphinha still working his way back to full fitness, coach Hansi Flick turned to Rashford as a starter on the right wing. The Englishman had last started in La Liga back on April 4 against Atletico Madrid, when he also scored, and Flick’s faith was rewarded almost immediately.

After Antonio Rudiger fouled Ferran Torres on the edge of the box, Rashford stepped up to take the free kick from the right side. Opting to drive the ball toward Thibaut Courtois’s near post, Rashford caught the Belgian goalkeeper with a step to his left, and the thunderous effort was impossible to stop, opening what would become a 2-0 victory in just the ninth minute.

In doing so, Rashford ended Messi’s unique status as the sole Barcelona player to score a direct free kick against Real Madrid in the 21st century. Messi had achieved that feat twice during his time at the club, making the record all the more exclusive.

As highlighted by OptaJose on X (formerly Twitter), Rashford’s effort was the third free kick goal Barcelona have scored against Real Madrid in this century, and the first since October 2012, when the previous one had also come in a La Liga fixture at Camp Nou.

Since Messi’s departure in 2021, Barcelona have converted just three direct free kicks from over 100 attempts, with Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski and Pablo Torre each netting one. Rashford’s goal brings that tally to four, a figure that underscores the significant drop in free kick precision the club has experienced since the Argentine’s exit.

Messi’s free kick goals against Real Madrid

Lionel Messi is currently closing in on the top tier of all-time free kick goalscorers, with 71 to his name and just one behind Juninho Pernambucano for a place in the top three. Two of those goals came against Real Madrid while wearing the Barcelona shirt.

The first arrived in the Spanish Super Cup in August 2012, when Messi curled a stunning long-range free kick past Iker Casillas at the Santiago Bernabéu in the second leg, with Barcelona claiming the trophy. The second came just two months later in a La Liga match at Camp Nou, in a 2-2 draw in which both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo each scored a brace.

Barcelona entered Sunday with a golden opportunity to wrap up the league title in a high-stakes edition of El Clasico. Marcus Rashford opened the scoring with a breathtaking free kick before Ferran Torres finished off a clinical team move to secure the 2-0 win and ignite a trophy celebration at a packed Camp Nou.

Immediately following the final whistle, Messi shared his excitement with millions of followers to commemorate the club’s latest milestone. “Campeones!!! Visca el Barca!!!” the Argentine posted on his Instagram story alongside an image of the current squad hoisting the trophy.

Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez was equally vocal, adding to the digital celebration with his own brand of South American intensity. He dropped an emphatic “VAMOS” in the comments of the team’s victory post, a gesture that quickly went viral among the Barcelona faithful.

Despite Suarez departing in 2020 and Messi following a year later, both strikers maintain a deep-rooted emotional connection to the Catalan institution. This bond remains especially strong for Messi, who returned to the Camp Nou last year to the club that raised him.

How many trophies have Barcelona won in the post-Messi era?

While Barcelona have always been a global powerhouse, Lionel Messi’s era brought a level of unprecedented parity with Real Madrid. Between his 2004 debut and his 2021 departure, the Argentine legend led the club to a staggering 35 trophies.

The initial years following his exit were defined by transition and turmoil, as the club managed only two trophies in the first three seasons. However, the trajectory shifted under Xavi Hernandez and has reached new heights with Hansi Flick at the helm.

Under Flick’s disciplined leadership and the rise of stars like Lamine Yamal, Barcelona have re-established their domestic dominance. After sweeping the domestic treble in 2024-25, they have now secured both the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup in the current 2025-26 campaign.

This brings the club’s total to seven trophies since Messi’s departure five years ago. While international glory in the Champions League remains the final frontier, the foundation of this competitive roster looks stronger than it has in years.

On Sunday, May 10, Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the final El Clasico of the 2025-26 campaign, a result that officially clinched the La Liga crown for the Blaugrana at home. Barcelona currently sit at the summit with 91 points through 35 matches; with a 14-point cushion and only three games remaining, they have mathematically eliminated Los Blancos from title contention.

The 2025-26 La Liga triumph marks Yamal’s second trophy of the season, following the Spanish Super Cup victory in January where Barcelona edged Real Madrid 3-2 in the final. While the Cules fell short in both the Copa del Rey and the Champions League, stifled in both competitions by a resilient Atletico Madrid, the team’s evolution into a powerhouse under manager Hansi Flick is undeniable.

Furthermore, Yamal’s meteoric rise hasn’t been a one-season fluke; his statistical output has climbed alongside his tactical importance. The 2025-26 campaign has been a career year for the youngster, as he has racked up 24 goals and 17 assists. No longer just a creative playmaker, Yamal has transformed into Barcelona’s primary scoring threat and the most dangerous attacker in the league.

Yamal’s trophy breakdown

With his 19th birthday not arriving until July 13, Yamal’s trophy cabinet currently holds seven major honors at just 18 years and 10 months old. His collection includes six titles with Barcelona and one historic triumph with the Spanish national team:

• 2022-23 La Liga (Barcelona).
• 2024 Euro (Spain).
• 2024-25 Spanish Super Cup (Barcelona).
• 2024-25 Copa del Rey (Barcelona).
• 2024-25 La Liga (Barcelona).
• 2024-25 Spanish Super Cup (Barcelona).
• 2025-26 La Liga (Barcelona).

Lionel Messi’s trophy cabinet at 18 years old

As left-footed graduates of La Masia, Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal share more than just a developmental pedigree. However, at Yamal’s current age, the Argentine was still in the early stages of establishing himself as a regular starter, rather than the undisputed face of the franchise.

Before turning 19 in June 2006, Messi had captured four major trophies with Barcelona—three fewer than Yamal. His haul included back-to-back La Liga titles (2004-05, 2005-06), the 2005 Spanish Super Cup, and the 2005-06 UEFA Champions League. While he featured in six matches during that European run, a hamstring injury forced him to watch the final stages of the tournament from the sidelines.

Internationally, Messi also secured silverware at the youth level. In 2005, he led Argentina to a victory over the Netherlands to claim the FIFA U-20 World Cup. He famously swept the individual honors at that tournament, taking home both the Golden Boot as top scorer and the Golden Ball as the competition’s best player.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophy cabinet at 18 years old

Compared to the Barcelona duo, Cristiano Ronaldo’s breakthrough into the elite tier of trophy winners occurred slightly later in his professional development. At 18 years of age, the Portuguese star held only the 2002 Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira (Portuguese Super Cup) with Sporting CP, a match in which he was an unused substitute during a 5-1 rout of Leixões.

Ronaldo also claimed the Toulon Tournament with Portugal’s U-20 side in June 2003. Unlike Yamal and Messi, Ronaldo’s birthday falls mid-season (February 5), meaning he turned 19 in early 2004, just as the European season reached its business end.

If we account for his age-19 season (2003-04), he added the FA Cup with Manchester United to his resume, marking his second major trophy. That year remains a famous footnote in soccer history; while Ronaldo was finding his feet at Old Trafford, the Red Devils were bounced from the Champions League by Jose Mourinho’s Porto, and the Arsenal “Invincibles” denied him a Premier League title in his debut English campaign.

Match Overview

The first leg of the latest edition of the Clasico Capitalino delivered everything fans could have hoped for, as Club America and Pumas UNAM battled to a dramatic 3-3 draw in a back-and-forth thriller. America created enough chances to leave with a victory on home turf, but the deadlock keeps the rivalry wide open heading into a decisive second leg.

With the series now shifting to their stadium, Pumas enter with a slight edge and the momentum of playing in front of their supporters, while America will be expected to push aggressively from the opening whistle in what shapes up as another intense, high-pressure showdown between two of Mexico City’s biggest clubs.

After the departures of Carlo Ancelotti, Toni Kroos, and Luka Modrić, Los Blancos entered a new era filled with promise. Led by Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius, and Jude Bellingham, they aimed to dominate European soccer once again. However, Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa failed to find the right balance between the midfield and the attack, leaving the team without a clear playing identity or direction. Compounding these issues, the roster has been plagued by injuries.

Amid a sporting transition, Real Madrid made a mistake that ultimately defined their season: The dismissal of Xabi Alonso. With this decision, the front office handed greater influence to the players, parting ways with a promising manager who was seeking support to fully control the dressing room. With a highly demanding, methodical style, he pushed players to embrace defined roles and commit to intense defensive work, something that ultimately cost him his position.

Coupled with Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, they also failed to properly plan the transition from Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, exposing poor squad construction from the very beginning of the season. Rather than signing a true deep-lying playmaker, they relied on Federico Valverde, Bellingham, and Arda Güler to take on that responsibility. However, none of them naturally fit that profile, forcing the solution onto Thiago Pitarch, who showed that he was still too young for such a major role.

After those poor decisions, Real Madrid began to endure a season to forget. Reports of internal issues between players, such as Álvaro Carreras and Antonio Rüdiger, escalated into an even bigger incident involving Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni. The situation led to an internal disciplinary procedure by the club that ended with fines of €500,000 for each player. These conflicts exposed a much deeper problem: a lack of leadership in the dressing room and the absence of a manager with enough authority to control the squad’s biggest egos.

Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius fail to pull Real Madrid out of the slump

Kylian Mbappé arrived at Real Madrid in 2024, promising a new golden era for the club. With Vinícius Jr. already in the squad, the front office’s intention was not to replace the Brazilian, but rather to complement him. Despite a difficult start, the Frenchman scored 44 goals in his first season and has already added 41 in his second campaign. However, the two stars have failed to establish a true connection on the pitch, falling short of lifting Los Blancos out of their crisis.

Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. have failed to show their best version as a goalscoring duo at Real Madrid. Although the Frenchman starts as a center forward, he does not operate as a natural striker, constantly drifting toward the left flank and overlapping with the Brazilian. Consequently, they cannot recreate the chemistry Vinícius once had with Karim Benzema, as they struggle to combine through quick link-up play as they naturally move into identical areas.

If Real Madrid want Mbappé and Vinícius to develop into a truly feared attacking partnership, they may need to adopt a strategy similar Luis Enrique’s one at PSG: Constant positional rotation. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué shift across the front line based on the team’s needs. Both have already proven they can thrive in multiple attacking positions, which suggests they could successfully adapt to a similar system.

Real Madrid need a major midfield restructuring

Over the last few years, the best teams in the world have shown that having an elite midfield can define an entire season. While Vitinha and João Neves shine at PSG, Real Madrid continue to field profiles that are too similar, leaving the team without proper balance. This is far from unfamiliar territory for Los Blancos, as Toni Kroos, Casemiro, and Luka Modrić once provided the perfect balance that allowed the club to dominate Europe.

With Aurélien Tchouaméni operating as the defensive midfielder, Real Madrid may need a player capable of truly organizing the midfield. Although Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler clearly shine individually, they are naturally more attack-minded profiles and therefore struggle to dictate the tempo of the game. As a result, the team has failed to control transitions or stop counterattacks efficiently, leaving Los Blancos without real control of matches.

If Real Madrid manage to secure the signing of a deep-lying playmaker such as Enzo Fernández or Kees Smit, Los Blancos may eventually have to choose between Güler and Bellingham in the starting lineup, as Federico Valverde’s defensive contributions are key. However, the managerial change will likely be even more important for rebuilding the team, as it needs an experienced, winning profile capable of handling the major ego issues.

José Mourinho may be an ideal solution for Real Madrid

Following the failed spells of Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid now appear to be targeting a manager with extensive experience. Although Didier Deschamps and Mauricio Pochettino have emerged as major options, Los Blancos would reportedly need to wait until after the 2026 World Cup, which creates a significant issue by delaying major changes. This is precisely why, José Mourinho’s vast experience and legendary legacy make him an ideal solution.

Despite being under contract with Benfica, Mourinho supposedly has a clause that could allow him to leave for Real Madrid. As a fan favorite and legendary figure at the club, the Portuguese manager would immediately command respect in the dressing room, helping to eliminate ego clashes. In addition, he could bring balance back to the squad by imposing a strong work ethic. However, he would likely require full backing and complete authority to rebuild.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pulisic felt discomfort in his glute during AC Milan’s final training session on Sunday morning. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri chose not to risk the forward given the nature of the complaint and the timing of the issue.

The decision to protect Pulisic went beyond simply leaving him out of the starting lineup. Allegri excluded him from the squad entirely, meaning the American will watch the Atalanta match from the stands. With the World Cup now roughly a month away, the USMNT will be hoping the injury is minor and that the natural end of the club season will allow for a full recovery before the tournament begins.

In Pulisic’s absence, Allegri has opted to pair Santiago Gimenez with Rafael Leao in attack. A defeat against Atalanta would drop Milan from fourth to fifth place, pushing them out of the Champions League qualification spots with just two Serie A games remaining.

Pulisic faces another fitness hurdle ahead of international duty

Injuries have undoubtedly taken a toll on Pulisic during the 2025-26 campaign, derailing his momentum just as he hit his stride late last year. The forward previously missed the November international window featuring marquee matchups against Paraguay and Uruguay, and this latest setback serves as a haunting reminder of his physical struggles ahead of the summer’s big stage.

While AC Milan have yet to release a formal medical bulletin, updates are expected in the coming hours regarding a definitive diagnosis and recovery timeline. Per Transfermarkt, early projections suggest the USMNT star could return by May 16, potentially making him available for the following day’s away fixture against Genoa.

However, the timing remains disastrous for Pulisic, who is currently fighting to rediscover his clinical edge. His last goal dates back to a December 28 clash with Hellas Verona, and he hasn’t recorded a goal contribution since an assist against Torino on March 21, a concerning dry spell for the man expected to wear the captain’s armband for the United States in the 2026 World Cup this summer.

Regarding Raphinha, the Brazilian winger’s omission from the lineup is a calculated risk by manager Hansi Flick. Despite his status as one of the team’s most explosive offensive weapons, Raphinha is still working his way back from a lingering hamstring strain in his right thigh. While he is healthy enough to make the squad, Flick has opted to keep him on the bench as an impact sub rather than risking further injury from the opening whistle.

This marks the second consecutive matchday Raphinha has been included in the match-day squad since his injury layoff. He traveled for last week’s 2-1 road victory against Osasuna but remained an unused substitute. Fans are now watching the clock to see if he will make his first appearance for the club since a March 22 victory over Rayo Vallecano.

Frenkie de Jong finds himself in a similar predicament, with Flick deciding that the Dutch midfield maestro isn’t quite ready for a full 90-minute shift in a match of this intensity. De Jong spent the entirety of March sidelined with his own hamstring issue; over the last five fixtures across La Liga and Champions League play, he has been eased back into action exclusively as a second-half substitute to preserve his long-term fitness.

An El Clasico edition plagued by absences

El Clasico remains the pinnacle of club soccer, a global spectacle fueled by a century of rivalry and a galaxy of world-class stars. However, this latest installment—one with massive title implications—finds both Spanish giants significantly shorthanded, with injuries and internal turmoil stripping the marquee matchup of some of its biggest names.

Beyond the restricted roles for De Jong and Raphinha, Barcelona are reeling from the loss of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whose hamstring injury has reportedly sidelined him for the remainder of the season. In a move that stunned many, Robert Lewandowski has also been relegated to the bench, though his exclusion appears to be a strictly tactical gamble by Flick rather than a fitness concern.

The situation is even more dire for Real Madrid, whose injury list reads like a medical ward. In addition to long-term absences for Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy, Los Blancos are without Arda Guler and Dani Carvajal. Most shockingly, Kylian Mbappe was a last-minute scratch, while Federico Valverde was ruled out after a training ground altercation with Aurelien Tchouameni left him needing stitches and unfit for duty.

Match Overview

After striking early through Enner Valencia, Pachuca walked away from the first leg with a hard-earned 1-0 edge over Toluca in what turned into a tense and physical battle from start to finish. The narrow win gives Pachuca momentum heading into the decisive second leg.

But there’s little room for comfort against a Toluca side known for responding under pressure and flipping big matchups in their favor. Even with the advantage and the confidence gained from the opening result, Pachuca will need another composed performance to close out the series.

Camp Nou has been an impenetrable fortress for Barcelona this season, with the Blaugrana winning all 17 home games played at their revamped stadium in the 2025-26 campaign. The Blaugrana also carry a 10-game La Liga winning streak into the match, while Real Madrid have won just two, drawn one and lost two of their last five, and have endured a turbulent week off the pitch, headlined by the confrontation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni.

Even with the title potentially on the line, several key players will be absent from this edition of El Clasico. Lamine Yamal’s injury ruled him out for Barcelona, while Valverde’s knock kept him out for Real Madrid, and Kylian Mbappe was added to the absentee list in a last-minute blow for Los Blancos.

How a Barcelona win affects the La Liga standings

A victory for Barcelona on Sunday would officially hand the Blaugrana the 2025-26 La Liga title. Three points would move them to 91 points, leaving Real Madrid on 77 with only three games remaining, a gap too large to bridge even if Barcelona were to lose every remaining fixture and Real Madrid win all of theirs.

It would be Barcelona’s second consecutive La Liga title and their fifth in the last ten years. The win would also level the all-time head-to-head record between the two clubs, bringing both sides to 106 wins apiece across 264 meetings, with 52 draws.

How a Barcelona draw affects the La Liga standings

Even if the two sides share the spoils at Camp Nou, Barcelona would still be crowned La Liga champions on Sunday. Their current 11-point advantage over Real Madrid, 88 to 77, means the nine points still available to the Madrid side are not enough for them to overhaul the leaders, regardless of how the remaining fixtures play out.

A draw between these two clubs has become something of a rarity in recent years. The last 20 editions of El Clasico have all produced a winner, nine for Barcelona and 11 for Real Madrid, with the last draw dating back to December 2019 when the fixture at Camp Nou ended 0-0.

Adding to the occasion, Mundo Deportivo reports that La Liga would present the trophy directly at Camp Nou rather than waiting for the final round of fixtures, meaning that a win or a draw on Sunday could see Barcelona lift the title on the same night and on the same pitch as their greatest rivals.

How a Barcelona defeat affects the La Liga standings

A defeat for Barcelona on Sunday would delay their coronation but would by no means put the title in doubt. Real Madrid would need to win all three of their remaining games while Barcelona could still clinch the title by picking up just two more points from their final nine.

The next opportunity for Barcelona to seal the title could come as soon as next Thursday, when Real Madrid face Real Oviedo. Anything less than a win for Los Blancos would hand the Blaugrana the title, with Barcelona also due to face Deportivo Alaves, Real Betis and Valencia in their remaining fixtures.

Lamine Yamal has managed to produce the best statistical season of his career, becoming Barcelona’s top scorer. Nevertheless, he suffered a muscle tear, causing him to miss the remainder of the season and arrive at the 2026 World Cup with Spain far from fully fit. With this, the 18-year-old star has now accumulated his fourth injury of the season, worrying fans about his physical consistency.

In Yamal’s absence, head coach Hansi Flick could opt to deploy Marcus Rashford on the right wing. Being a fast player, the English star could be key to break Real Madrid defense—something already done this season. While Raphinha has already recovered from his injury, he may not be a starter due to his lack of competitive rhythm, but he may play a key role from bench.

Without Lamine Yamal, the Blaugrana lose their best dribbler, a key player for breaking Real Madrid’s pressing lines. Because of this, they could opt for numerical superiority in duels against their opponents, creating space through collective play. Therefore, Fermín and Olmo would become key figures in driving Barcelona’s performance, while Rashford would look to exploit the spaces alongside Ferran Torres, chasing the scoring prowess.

Barcelona’s depth on the bench could be key to beating Real Madrid

Unlike Real Madrid, the Blaugrana have not suffered severe injury problems in the current season. Because of this, Hansi Flick is dealing with only Lamine Yamal’s injury absence, while keeping the rest of his star-studded squad available. Far from being a minor factor, this could give Barcelona a major advantage over Los Blancos, allowing them to avoid overloading their key players and adjust the game as it progresses, with world-class talent at their disposal.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres have shown they are capable of transforming the attack, providing pace and significant scoring power from bench. In addition, Marc Bernal, Pablo Gavi, and even Alejandro Balde could reshape the tactical approach, adding different nuances to El Clásico. Faced with the wave of injuries, Real Madrid do not have many immediate-impact options to change the game from the bench.

Under the influence of Hansi Flick, the Blaugranas have become one of the best teams in the world. With their dominant playing style and tactical versatility, they have been quite consistent in LaLiga, sitting as sole leaders. As Lamine Yamal will not be available due to injury, head coach may bet on Marcus Rashford as Raphinha is not with competitive rhythm. Moreover, Fermín López and Dani Olmo may hold a key role to bolster the creative side.

Despite Álvaro Arbeloa arriving as the supposed savior of los Blancos’ season, they have not managed to reverse their poor run of form. Not only have they failed to establish a defined playing style, but they have also struggled defensively. In addition, Kylian Mbappé’s absence could significantly impact their attacking output, leaving everything in the hands of Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, the team’s two cornerstones.

While Real Madrid are eleven points behind the top of LaLiga, they need a victory in today’s match. In the event of a draw or a defeat, the Blaugrana would be crowned league winners in El Clásico, which would be painful as they have now gone two consecutive seasons without winning a trophy. Because of this, Barcelona are expected to impose their strong control of the game, while Los Blancos will look to exploit their opponents’ serious defensive issues to find goals.

Barcelona lineup vs Real Madrid

Unlike Real Madrid, Barcelona arrive into today’s game with just Lamine Yamal’s absence. While the 18-year-old’s absence is sensitive, head coach Hansi Flick hold players on plein form like Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo that may lead the offense. Moreover, Raphinha has already recovered from his injury, but his lack of competitive rhythm may lead him to be benched. Nonetheless, Marcus Rashford may also play a key role.

Considering this, the Blaugranas will lineup as follows: Joan Garcia; Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Joao Cancelo; Gavi, Pedri; Marcus Rashford, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo; Ferran Torres.

Real Madrid lineup vs Barcelona

Real Madrid aren’t having their best season in recent years. Not only is their style of play lacking spark, but they’re also dealing with numerous absences. As a result, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be without Arda Güler, Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo Goes, Eder Militao, Dani Ceballos, Dani Carvajal, and Ferland Mendy. With this in mind, los Blancos will be forced to make radical changes to their lineup, relying on Vinicius Jr. as their main offensive hope.

With this in mind, los Blancos will play as follows: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen, Fran García; Brahim Diaz, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jude Bellingham; Vinicius Jr, Gonzalo Garcia.

Match Overview

Pressure is mounting on Santos as the Brazilian side continues to hover dangerously close to the relegation zone entering this crucial matchup. Led by Neymar Jr., Santos sit on 15 points — level with Corinthians but narrowly ahead on goal difference — making every result increasingly critical as the season progresses.

Standing in their way is a confident RB Bragantino squad that has climbed to 20 points and remains firmly in the hunt for a coveted Copa Libertadores berth, adding even more intensity to a matchup with major implications at both ends of the table.

Match Overview

The stage is set for a potential title coronation at Camp Nou as Barcelona hosts its eternal rival, Real Madrid, in a high-stakes El Clásico. With an 11-point lead at the top of the La Liga table, Barcelona needs only to avoid defeat to clinch the championship. The Blaugrana have been flawless on home soil this season, boasting a perfect record of 17 wins from 17 matches, making this a monumental challenge for the visitors.

For Real Madrid, this match is about more than just points; it’s about pride. Arriving at Camp Nou amidst reports of a dressing room crisis and a string of poor results, Los Blancos are desperate to play spoiler and disrupt Barcelona‘s celebration. Facing a severe injury crisis, Real Madrid must summon extraordinary resilience to overcome a dominant Barcelona side and avoid further deepening their late-season turmoil.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The season trajectories of these two clubs could not be more different. Barcelona, under manager Hansi Flick, has demonstrated remarkable consistency and tactical discipline, culminating in a commanding lead. Their aggressive, attacking style has set the standard in Spain. In contrast, Real Madrid‘s campaign has been marred by inconsistency, with just two wins in their last five league matches, effectively costing them a shot at the title and leaving them on the verge of a second consecutive season without a major trophy.

The tactical battle will likely pit Barcelona‘s high-possession, high-press system against Real Madrid‘s counter-attacking threat. Under Flick, Barcelona has averaged 62% possession across their last six encounters with Real Madrid and generates an impressive 19.06 shots per game. However, their reliance on a high defensive line and an offside trap could leave them vulnerable. A depleted but still dangerous Real Madrid will look to exploit this space, with the pace of Vinicius Junior being their most potent weapon in transition.

Motivation for both sides is at its peak, but for entirely different reasons. Barcelona has the historic opportunity to seal the La Liga title in front of their home fans at the expense of their greatest rival—a fairy-tale scenario. For Real Madrid, the objective is to salvage pride, disrupt the festivities, and prove their mettle even when weakened. The pressure is immense on the visitors to avoid compounding a difficult season with a humbling defeat.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Recent history heavily favors the Catalan side. Since Hansi Flick took charge, Barcelona has dominated this fixture, winning five of the last six meetings against Real Madrid, including one victory after extra time. This trend underscores the tactical edge Barcelona has held over their rivals in the current era, making them clear favorites heading into this clash.

The last five encounters have been explosive, dramatic affairs. Barcelona secured a 3-2 Supercopa victory in January 2026, though Real Madrid won the reverse league fixture 2-1 earlier in the season. Prior to that, Barcelona claimed a 4-3 league win, a 3-2 Copa del Rey win after extra time, and a stunning 5-2 Supercopa victory, showcasing the high-scoring nature of modern El Clásico.

Key data points suggest another thrilling spectacle is on the horizon. Both teams have scored in each of the last five meetings, which have produced an incredible average of 5.2 goals per game. Furthermore, the intensity of the rivalry is evident in the disciplinary record, with three red cards shown across the last five matches. Spectators should expect goals, drama, and a fiery contest from start to finish.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

The two giants enter this clash in starkly different states of health, with Barcelona near full strength while Real Madrid contends with a crippling injury list that severely limits their options.

Barcelona will be without the services of young star Lamine Yamal, who is recovering from a hamstring injury. His absence is a blow, but the team has ample attacking depth with Marcus Rashford, Raphinha, and Fermin Lopez ready to step in alongside Robert Lewandowski. Defender Andreas Christensen has returned to training but is unlikely to be rushed back into the starting eleven.

Real Madrid‘s situation is far more dire. Manager Alvaro Arbeloa will be without a host of key players, including Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, Arda Güler, and Ferland Mendy. To make matters worse, reports of a training ground bust-up have fueled speculation of dressing room unrest. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is questionable, and if he is unavailable, Andriy Lunin will continue in goal.

Barcelona Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martin, Cancelo; Garcia, Pedri; Fermin, Gavi, Rashford; Lewandowski.
This lineup is designed to control the midfield and implement Flick’s signature high-press. With Pedri and Gavi pulling the strings, Barcelona will aim to dominate possession, pin Real Madrid back, and create opportunities for Robert Lewandowski.

Real Madrid Projected XI (4-4-2):
Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, Garcia; Valverde, Bellingham, Tchouameni, Pitarch; Diaz, Vinicius Junior.
Forced into a more defensive shape due to injuries, this formation allows Real Madrid to remain compact and absorb pressure. The game plan will revolve around defensive solidity and unleashing Vinicius Junior on the counter-attack, who carries the bulk of the offensive responsibility.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid live stream on Fubo. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including web browsers, smartphones (iOS and Android), tablets, and smart TVs such as Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, and Amazon Fire TV.

In addition to La Liga, Fubo gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions from around the world. Subscribers can enjoy coverage of Premier League, Serie A, and major tournaments through its partnership with networks like UEFA Champions League.

A subscription to Fubo costs just $14.99 per month, offering a comprehensive package for soccer fans who want to follow multiple leagues and competitions in one place.

SEE MORE: For a complete list of La Liga games, check out our La Liga TV schedule.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

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

Match Overview

AC Milan‘s season is on a knife’s edge. After looking like title contenders through mid-March, a dramatic collapse has seen them win just once in their last five Serie A matches. Now, their once-secure Champions League spot is in serious jeopardy, with fifth-placed Roma just three points behind. The urgency is palpable at the San Siro, as anything less than a victory could prove disastrous for their European ambitions.

Atalanta arrives in Milan with less to play for but every intention of causing an upset. Currently sitting seventh, their chances for European qualification are slim, but they are coming off a frustrating draw and will be eager to make a statement. For the Rossoneri, this is a must-win game to halt their slide, while Atalanta has a prime opportunity to spoil the party and capitalize on their opponent’s poor form.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The season trajectories of these two clubs could not be more different. Milan‘s campaign has been a tale of two halves, starting with strong title aspirations that have since crumbled into a desperate fight for a top-four finish. Their recent offensive struggles are alarming, with key strikers failing to find the net. In contrast, Atalanta‘s season has been defined by an inefficient attack that has consistently underperformed its expected goals (xG), leading to a high number of draws and a mid-table position.

Tactically, this match presents a clash of styles. Under Massimiliano Allegri, Milan employs a more passive defensive system, focusing on maintaining a solid structure rather than aggressively pressing to win the ball back. This approach has shown cracks recently, and Atalanta will aim to exploit that newfound vulnerability. The key battle will be whether Atalanta’s forwards, who have struggled for sharpness all season, can finally convert their chances against a Milan defense that is suddenly showing signs of weakness.

For Milan, the motivation is simple and immense: secure Champions League‘s spot. With only a three-point cushion and a brutal run of form, every single point is critical. Atalanta‘s drive is more nuanced; they are playing for pride, a potential seventh-place finish that could grant them European entry depending on other results, and the chance to extend their dominant head-to-head record against a historic rival.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

History heavily favors the visitors in this fixture. Atalanta is currently on an impressive six-game unbeaten streak against AC Milan, a run that includes four victories and two draws. The Rossoneri have not defeated Atalanta since 2023, giving La Dea a significant psychological edge heading into the San Siro.

Looking at the last five encounters, the pattern is clear. Atalanta has won three and drawn two, including the reverse fixture earlier this season which ended in a 1-1 stalemate. This consistent dominance highlights Milan‘s struggles in breaking down Raffaele Palladino‘s side, regardless of venue or form.

While goals are a frequent feature, these matches are rarely blowouts. Both teams have scored in four of the last five meetings, yet the average number of goals per game in that span is a modest 2.2. This trend suggests another tight, hard-fought contest where a single goal could be the difference.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both teams are grappling with key absences that will force tactical adjustments from their managers for this crucial Serie A showdown.

Milan is dealt a significant blow with the suspension of defender Fikayo Tomori, forcing De Winter to step into the back three. The midfield is also impacted by an injury to Modric, leaving Allegri to choose between Jashari and Ricci for the vital playmaker role. The attack is under immense pressure, with American star Christian Pulisic pushing for a recall to the starting lineup alongside Rafael Leao to end the team’s scoring drought.

Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino is expected to shake up his starting eleven following a goalless draw. Forward Giacomo Raspadori is in contention for a starting spot, which could lead to a formation shift. Defensively, Ahanor is likely to retain his place over Kolasinac, while Hien is challenging Djimsiti for a spot in the backline.

Milan Projected XI (3-5-2): Maignan; De Winter, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Jashari, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Leao, Pulisic.
This 3-5-2 formation is designed to provide defensive cover with De Winter filling in for the suspended Tomori. The primary focus, however, will be on the attacking duo of Leao and Pulisic, who are tasked with rediscovering their form to reignite Milan‘s struggling offense.

Atalanta Projected XI (3-4-1-2): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Hien, Ahanor; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Zalewski; De Ketelaere; Scamacca, Raspadori.
This lineup features a creative and dynamic attack, with De Ketelaere operating behind the front two of Scamacca and Raspadori. The system uses wing-backs to provide width and relies on a solid three-man defense to contain Milan‘s forwards.

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Kylian Mbappé has been left out of Real Madrid’s squad list. Even though he had supposedly passed the medical tests a few days ago, he has not managed to fully recover from his torn muscle fiber, causing him to miss El Clásico. In addition to this, the French forward left the team’s latest training session in the final five minutes after feeling discomfort, leaving everyone surprised, reveals Diario Marca.

Given the Frenchman’s absence, Real Madrid‘s Álvaro Arbeloa could stick with the same approach he used against Espanyol, betting on Brahim Díaz and Jude Bellingham in the attack. Complementing the offense, Vinicius Jr. would occupy the left side of midfield, controlling the entire flank and looking to create space in Barcelona’s defense. While this approach has already worked in previous matches, the absence of Kylian Mbappé’s scoring power could prove quite decisive.

Without Mbappé’s presence, Vinicius Jr. could once again have complete freedom of movement, recalling his best periods with Los Blancos before the Frenchman arrived at the club. In addition, he has proven to be key to the team’s collective play, meaning he could not only make an impact from a scoring standpoint again, but also elevate Brahim, Bellingham, or even Gonzalo García if he comes on as a substitute during the LaLiga match.

Real Madrid face seven additional absentees vs Barcelona

Real Madrid have not had their best season, being eliminated from the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League and sitting in second place, 11 points behind Barcelona. Along with the limited impact of head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, Los Blancos have suffered a significant wave of injuries that has prevented them from performing at their best. Far from improving toward the end of the season, they still maintain eight major absences for El Clásico.

Arbeloa will not be able to count on Arda Güler, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo Goes, Éder Militão, Dani Ceballos, Dani Carvajal, and Ferland Mendy. Because of this, they will be forced to make major changes to their squad, losing most of their key figures across every area of the pitch. Nevertheless, Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham’s presence could prove decisive to chase a victory today, as they have already shown to be crucial from an offensive standpoint.

Match Overview

With the Premier League title within their grasp, Arsenal travels to the London Stadium for a high-stakes clash against a desperate West Ham side fighting for survival. After Manchester City dropped points, the Gunners now hold a five-point lead at the top of the table. The mission is clear: win their remaining three games, and a 22-year wait for the league crown will be over. The urgency is palpable as Mikel Arteta‘s squad looks to take another massive step toward a historic championship.

For West Ham, the stakes are just as high but at the opposite end of the table. The Hammers are mired in a brutal relegation battle, sitting just one point shy of safety. A morale-crushing defeat last weekend has amplified the pressure, making this home fixture a must-not-lose scenario. Facing the league leaders is a monumental task, but with their Premier League status on the line, expect West Ham to fight with everything they have to secure a season-defining result.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The two clubs enter this fixture on wildly different trajectories. Arsenal is on the verge of its most successful season in decades, chasing a potential Premier League and Champions League double. After a slight wobble in April, the Gunners have roared back to form with dominant victories. In stark contrast, West Ham is in a perilous position, with their recent 3-0 loss to Brentford highlighting their struggle for consistency and leaving fans fearing the worst.

The tactical battle will likely pit Arsenal‘s defensive juggernaut against West Ham‘s counter-attacking threat. The Gunners boast the best defensive record in the league, built on a foundation of physicality and organization that has conceded just 0.61 goals per game. Their proficiency from set-pieces, with a league-high 21 goals, provides a crucial weapon. West Ham will look to stay compact and exploit any lapses in concentration on the break, relying on the individual brilliance of Jarrod Bowen to create opportunities.

Motivation could not be simpler for either side. For Arsenal, every match is a final as they look to close out the title race and avoid any late drama. For West Ham, every point is precious in their bid to escape the drop zone. The desperation of Nuno Espírito Santo‘s team, combined with their strong home form—unbeaten in their last six league games at the London Stadium—makes them a dangerous opponent for a title-chasing side that cannot afford a slip-up.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, Arsenal has had the upper hand in this fixture, but West Ham has proven capable of pulling off upsets. The Gunners have won three of the last five encounters, while the Hammers have claimed two surprising victories, both of which came on the road at the Emirates Stadium.

In the reverse fixture earlier this season, Arsenal secured a comfortable 2-0 victory, completely neutralizing West Ham‘s attack and limiting them to zero shots on target. Recent meetings have also included some explosive scorelines, with Arsenal winning 5-2 and 6-0 in two of their last three trips to the London Stadium, demonstrating their ability to dominate this matchup away from home.

Despite the potential for goals, the last two head-to-head games have produced just three goals in total, suggesting a trend towards tighter affairs. Arsenal‘s defense has been formidable, keeping two clean sheets in the last five meetings. However, with an average of 3.6 goals per game across those same five matches, the potential for an open, high-scoring contest remains, especially given the immense pressure on both teams.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Arsenal is managing a few key injuries heading into this crucial match, while West Ham benefits from a fully available squad for their fight for survival.

The hosts have a clean bill of health, a significant boost for Nuno Espírito Santo as he prepares for the title chasers. Having all key players available gives West Ham the best possible chance to field a competitive side, though their healthy squad has not recently translated into positive results on the road.

Mikel Arteta, on the other hand, will be without Jurriën Timber and Mikel Merino due to injury. A new concern is midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly, who picked up a knock in the midweek Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid. His potential absence could see Martin Zubimendi step into the starting lineup alongside Declan Rice.

West Ham Projected XI (4-4-1-1):
Hermansen; Diouf, Disasi, Mavropanos, Walker-Peters; Fernandes, Soucek, Summerville, Bowen; Felipe; Castellanos.

This formation allows West Ham to remain defensively solid while relying on the pace and creativity of Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville on the flanks. Felipe will operate in the space behind the main striker, tasked with linking midfield and attack to create chances against Arsenal‘s disciplined backline.

Arsenal Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Raya; Hincapie, Saliba, Gabriel, Mosquera; Zubimendi, Rice; Eze, Odegaard, Saka; Gyokeres.

Arsenal‘s setup is built around their rock-solid defense and the creative engine of Martin Odegaard in midfield. With Zubimendi likely filling in, the Gunners maintain their physical presence in the middle of the park. The attacking trio of Eberechi Eze, Bukayo Saka, and Viktor Gyokeres provides the firepower needed to break down a deep-lying West Ham defense.

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Match Overview

Heart of Midlothian may have cracked the door wide open in the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership title race after settling for a draw against Motherwell, leaving Hearts on 77 points and just four clear of defending champions Celtic.

Now, all eyes shift to the latest edition of the Old Firm rivalry, where Celtic has a golden opportunity to tighten the race with a massive result in this game. Rangers, meanwhile, remain long shots in the championship picture, the stakes are still enormous at Ibrox, with pride, bragging rights, and the chance to derail Celtic’s title push fueling one of soccer’s fiercest rivalries.

Arbeloa said: “For a player to leave the training ground laughing is taking things out of context and putting them out of place. We all know the effort he made to come to Real Madrid and what he gave up. We all saw him wearing the shirt as a kid.”

The issue came up after a video posted by El Chiringuito last Thursday, the same day Valverde went to the hospital for stitches after the scandal. While it may not be a major mistake, it is not helpful for a player like Mbappé, who is already under scrutiny, to do something like that, especially after the kind of year the club had last season.

Arbeloa’s authority under scrutiny

The main takeaway from the incident was not only whether the dressing room is united after a bad year. The clash between the midfielders was not the only issue, since they had already argued the day before.

If a manager wants to be at a club this big, he has to be able to deal with players who have major egos because of their status, which is something Arbeloa could not do after a repeated incident, and also when Mbappé took a short trip while injured.

Arbeloa said about Mbappé’s arrival in Spain when his teammates were about to play against Espanyol: “I feel with the complete authority of a Real Madrid manager. In the end, they are respecting their current manager and as a player that is the most important thing.”

Arbeloa dismisses players having too much power

Dressing room conflicts are the players’ responsibility, but the manager has to be a leader so they do not affect the team. Real Madrid have not played since the incident, but it brought back the topic of how much power players may have, which was also a talking point after Xabi Alonso’s dismissal.

Arbeloa said: “I don’t know what that means. When a Real Madrid player does not play, it is because of a sporting decision. I choose the one I think deserves it most. Fans can be calm with this dressing room and these players. These are difficult situations, but there is nobody more ready to improve this than the president of our club.”

Match Overview

With a place in the Liga MX Clausura 2026 semifinals on the line, Cruz Azul return home carrying momentum after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atlas in the first leg of this quarterfinal showdown. Los Cementeros not only protected their advantage on the road.

But now, they head into the decisive matchup backed by their fans and holding the upper hand on aggregate. Atlas, however, remain firmly in the fight, knowing a single-goal margin leaves everything to play for in what promises to be another high-intensity clash between two rivals unwilling to back down.

During a conversation on his own podcast, the Manchester United icon questioned Alexander-Arnold’s absence, considering the defender has not been included in Tuchel’s recent call-ups. “No disrespect to Ben White – I think he’s a fantastic player – but for him to be in the squad and playing ahead of Trent is mind-boggling,” Rooney said.

In fact, the last time the Real Madrid right-back was selected at international level was in June 2025. Since then, the Three Lions have played eight matches, with Tuchel using six different players in that position: Ben White, Tino Livramento, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa, and Reece James. The latter is the only one who has been in the starting lineup more than once.

Rooney also did not appear fully convinced by the Chelsea defender. “Reece James isn’t the most defensive,” Wayne said. “In terms of the lads who are there, you wouldn’t say they’re the best defensively anyway, any of them.”

What has Tuchel said about Alexander-Arnold?

Considering his past with Liverpool and the fact that he is currently a Real Madrid player, Alexander-Arnold remains a high-profile figure in England. That is why his absence has been the subject of repeated questions for Thomas Tuchel in recent months.

“We created a slightly different game model when he was not in camp in September, October, November. It was a game model built on intensity, built on positivity, built even in the profile of the right full back on overlaps on underlaps, very intense,” the coach explained in an interview with ITV in March.

“So it was a slightly different profile of players who were with us in camp and who performed so well. He should have maybe deserved a second chance,” Tuchel admitted. “He’s on the long list and everyone is still in the mix, but at the moment, some other guys are just ahead of him.”

Alexander-Arnold still has a chance

As Thomas Tuchel himself explained, Trent Alexander-Arnold will be included in the preliminary list of 35 to 55 players that England are set to submit in the coming days. That keeps him in contention for one of the spots on the final 26-man roster for the World Cup, which must be finalized no later than June 1.

However, his chances appear slimmer compared to players such as Reece James, Tino Livramento, and Ben White, who have been more involved with England over the past year and offer a different profile from the Real Madrid star.

Flick said: “The most important thing, and I thank this club for it, is that we all move in the same direction. These are not normal things, but they can happen. You have to manage them and talk, communicate, that’s how we do it here. If anything happens, I’ll think about it. These things happen around the world, not just at Real Madrid. It surprised me a bit, but it’s not my team.”

Sunday could be a historic day for the club, with Barcelona trying to clinch La Liga against Real Madrid for the first time ever. With an 11-point lead, even a draw is enough for them.

Flick avoids discussing the Real Madrid crisis

There is no doubt that Real Madrid are in crisis. Their entire season has been poor, with a few exceptions like the Champions League tie against Manchester City. However, a club of this size going a full year without a trophy is something fans do not see often.

The fight between teammates is only the latest issue for a side that had already been producing levels well below expectations, even if Flick is trying to avoid focusing on the situation at their biggest rival.

Flick said: “Our goal is to win at home. We have a fantastic team; the fans support us. But for them, for Real Madrid, it’s also a classic match, and everyone must give 100 percent. They want to win. El Clásico is very important for everyone.”

Flick on the dressing room

The manager did not want to say too much about Real Madrid because he is focused only on his own team. In contrast to what has been happening with their biggest rivals, Flick praised the atmosphere in the Barcelona dressing room for most of the season.

Flick said: “The relationship between all the players is fantastic. The club has to keep following that philosophy of developing young talent. I am not going to say we do not make mistakes, we all do and we are human, but you have to know how to react. I am happy with my team. The communication has been great.”

“Inter striker Yoan Ange Bonny will represent Ivory Coast and not France with immediate effect, decision made,” Italian reporter Fabrizio Romano reported on Saturday through a post on his official X account.

Born on October 25, 2003, in Aubervilliers, France, but of Ivorian descent, Bonny had the opportunity to choose either national team at the international level. In fact, he represented France at youth level through the U-21 category.

However, upon reaching senior level, the 22-year-old forward had to make a definitive decision, considering FIFA allow players to switch national teams during their youth careers but are far more restrictive with senior players. In that context, Bonny chose to embrace his family roots.

Ivory Coast receive boost ahead of the World Cup

Yoan Ange Bonny’s first opportunity to join the Ivory Coast national team came earlier this year, when head coach Emerse Fae included him in the preliminary squad for friendlies against South Korea and Scotland during the March FIFA international break.

From that point on, the striker began the administrative process with FIFA to become eligible to represent the African nation ahead of the 2026 World Cup. His addition could prove significant for Fae’s squad, which will face the challenge of advancing from a group featuring Germany as the clear favourites, with Ecuador and Ivory Coast battling just below them.

Now, Bonny will need to earn a place in the final 26-man roster, which is expected to include several high-level stars who have been part of the national team in recent years. Among them are Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande, Nicolas Pepe, Franck Kessie, Simon Adingra, and Seko Fofana.

Bonny’s performances

Bonny’s hopes of being part of Ivory Coast’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are backed by his recent performances at club level. After standing out with Parma over four seasons, the forward joined Inter Milan in the summer of 2025, where he has recorded seven goals and eight assists in 41 appearances across Serie A, Coppa Italia, Supercoppa Italiana, and the UEFA Champions League.

Match Overview

Chivas return home with their season on the line after a 3-1 loss in the first leg in Monterrey, but the series remains within reach with a strong performance in front of their fans. Tigres UANL carry a two-goal advantage into the decisive matchup after a dominant first-leg showing.

However, they’ll still need to withstand an expected early push from a desperate Chivas side. With a trip to the next round at stake and intensity guaranteed from the opening whistle, this is a game fans won’t want to miss.

Kluivert said: “I don’t know what is going on at Real Madrid. When a manager leaves and another one arrives, a certain instability is created. It’s normal. They still have great players and can achieve good things, but this season some things were missing. They are human beings and football players, not robots.”

The Dutch former player was referring more to the managerial changes than to the internal scandal. However, it was still somewhat surprising given the expectations at a club like Real Madrid. For the former Barcelona player, the dismissal of Xabi Alonso in the middle of the season could be the reason they are not celebrating titles.

Kluivert uncertain about Barcelona’s potential forwards

One of the big summer questions for the club is how they will strengthen their attack because there is still plenty of doubt about who will play as the number 9. Robert Lewandowski could leave, so transfer rumors are starting to pick up.

Many players can be offered to the club, although Barcelona look like they are trying everything they can to get Julián Álvarez. Those are both strong options, with Kluivert not putting one above the other.

Kluivert said: “I don’t know what Lewandowski is going to do. He’s fantastic. He has a great impact in the dressing room; he’s one of my favorites. There are also talks about Álvarez, who is special and is playing well for Atletico Madrid. We’ll see what happens in that position.”

Kluivert supports Hansi Flick

The speculation that Hansi Flick could stay long term may soon become reality. Under the German manager, Barcelona have become a force in Europe again even though they were not able to win the Champions League. Flick also has Kluivert’s support to stay.

Kluivert said: “It would be something really good if Flick continues. He’s doing a fantastic job, getting excellent results and showing a great connection with the team. The manager has also given opportunities to the young players, which is very important to the club.”

“He’s one of the best players in the world, come on,” Flick responded during Saturday’s press conference when asked by a reporter whether Real Madrid currently play better without Mbappe. “On the pitch, he has unbelievable quality.”

The Barcelona coach then highlighted the French forward’s strengths: “In every situation, he’s very dangerous. In the box, he’s unbelievable. In front of the goal, he’s for me, for his quality, at the moment the best one.”

The narrative surrounding the supposed “burden” Mbappe represents for Real Madrid has gained traction in recent weeks, as the team started posting better results in matches in which he was unable to be part of the starting lineup due to physical issues.

In the last six matches in which Real Madrid had Mbappe in the starting lineup, they managed to win only once, while with him absent or coming off the bench, Los Blancos won seven of their last eight matches.

Will Mbappe start in El Clasico against Barcelona?

Kylian Mbappe missed Real Madrid’s last La Liga match — a 2-0 victory against Espanyol last Sunday — due to a muscle injury. That naturally cast doubt over his availability for El Clasico against Barcelona, with only seven days to recover his best physical condition.

However, the forward’s progress throughout the week was positive. Little by little, he rejoined training alongside the rest of his teammates, and on Saturday he took part in the session normally. That gives him a strong chance of being in the starting lineup at Camp Nou.

Mbappe’s record in El Clasico

Since arriving at Real Madrid in the summer of 2024, Kylian Mbappe has faced Barcelona six times, with an overwhelmingly negative record: five defeats and one victory. That statistic becomes even more striking considering that three of those five losses came in finals.

On an individual level, however, Mbappe has lived up to expectations. In those six matches against Barcelona, the French forward scored six goals, including a hat trick in the 4-3 defeat during the 2024-25 La Liga season.

Casillas was asked about Mourinho’s possible return to the club and said: “I would hire Alonso again. He’s a manager who succeeded with Bayer Leverkusen, he’s young and he is ready for Real Madrid. He would be the perfect manager with continuity and confidence. But in soccer you never know. Zinedine Zidane came in for Rafael Benítez and things went right.”

It is still unclear whether Mourinho could become the next manager, as he is still under contract with Benfica. His release clause reportedly expires in the last days of this month, so the club would have to decide quickly if they want him. With recent events, it also seems unlikely that Álvaro Arbeloa can keep his job.

Casillas on the Valverde-Tchouameni incident

The last few days in football have been dominated by Real Madrid, but not for good reasons. In a difficult season in which they will not win any trophies, ending it with an internal clash between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni makes things even worse for loyal fans of the club.

The situation, in which the midfielders reportedly had a disagreement on Wednesday before another one on Thursday, drew a lot of attention. It also had consequences for the team, as Valverde was injured in the incident even though he denied any confrontation. The former goalkeeper does not think it cannot be resolved.

Casillas said: “Everything has a solution, it can be fixed. It happened in our time too, but the difference is that it was before El Clasico. It’s something that must be solved from within, but it can happen at a club like Real Madrid. What makes you angry is that a team like this has not won a title.”

Casillas asks for sporting spirit

With all the tension these clubs always carry against each other, it would be normal to expect a heated match in what could be the decisive game in La Liga if it ends in a draw. Real Madrid’s icon does not want that to be the case on Sunday.

Casillas said: “Real Madrid players will shake hands with them if Barcelona win and congratulate them. The guard of honor cannot be part of it now, maybe in the future. If I were a player, If I were a player, I would step onto the field with the goal of preventing them from becoming champions on this day.”

During the first half, the Herons struggled to show their best form, wasting several chances while goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair made a number of key saves to keep the opposition off the scoreboard. In that context, a goal from Rodrigo De Paul allowed them to head into halftime with the lead.

From that point on, it was the Messi show. In the second half, he first assisted Luis Suarez after taking advantage of an opposing player being down on the field, and minutes later he also set up Sergio Reguilon — who had just come on moments earlier — for the 3-0 lead.

In the 75th minute, the Argentine forward finally got his chance to score when Rodrigo De Paul delivered a drilled cross from the right and found Leo inside the box. Messi had no trouble finishing clinically with his left foot to extend the lead to four goals.

Inter Miami relax again

Last week, Inter Miami held a 3-0 lead over Orlando City in the first half, but they took their foot off the gas and allowed their rivals to complete a comeback and earn a historic victory at Nu Stadium. And on Saturday, something similar happened in Canada.

After building a four-goal lead in the 75th minute, the Herons appeared to lower their intensity and allowed Toronto FC to get back into the match. Emilio Aristizabal first took advantage of a mistake by David Ayala to score, and minutes later he found the net again with a header.

In the final minutes of the match, the hosts pushed to get even closer on the scoreboard and even created a few chances to do so. However, the goal difference and the little time remaining proved impossible to overcome, preventing them from repeating Orlando City’s feat.

Messi reaches 100 MLS goal contributions

In addition to playing a key role in Inter Miami’s victory, the goal and two assists allowed Lionel Messi to reach another milestone by becoming the fastest player to record 100 goal contributions in Major League Soccer history.

The Argentine forward needed only 64 matches to register 59 goals and 41 assists in MLS regular-season play. That places him well ahead of the player who previously held the top spot on the list: Sebastian Giovinco needed 95 matches to reach those numbers with Toronto FC.

With only a handful of matches remaining, the entire championship picture could be reshaped in a single night at Al Awwal Park. The clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal carries massive weight for the league, for the stars involved, and for the growing global reputation of Saudi soccer.

The stakes could hardly be higher heading into Tuesday’s meeting between the top two sides in the table. Al-Nassr currently leads the Saudi Pro League with 82 points, while Al-Hilal sits five points behind with a game in hand, turning the derby into a virtual title decider.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s side regained momentum after defeating Al-Shabab 4-2, a match that saw the Portuguese superstar continue his extraordinary scoring run. The 41-year-old superstar also reached 100 Saudi Pro League goals during the victory, another landmark moment since his move away from Europe.

The importance of the match stretches beyond the title race itself. A league triumph for Al-Nassr would finally deliver Ronaldo his first major domestic trophy in Saudi Arabia and strengthen the legacy of his decision to join the league at a time when many questioned the project.

Theo Hernandez’s injury scare raises concern ahead of Al-Nassr clash

The buildup to the derby became even more intense after Theo Hernandez suffered an injury scare during Al-Hilal’s King’s Cup final victory over Al-Kholood this Friday. The French defender played a major role in the comeback win, scoring the decisive goal and producing one of his strongest displays since arriving from Milan.

Al-Hilal eventually secured a dramatic 2-1 victory after falling behind early in the match. Nasser Al-Dawsari equalized before Hernandez struck shortly before halftime, helping Simone Inzaghi secure his first trophy since taking charge of the club.

According to Sofascore’s post-match statistics, Hernandez completed 54 of 60 passes, registered a 90 percent passing accuracy, won five duels, and constantly threatened down the left flank. His influence once again highlighted why he has quickly become one of Al-Hilal’s key figures.

However, the celebrations quickly turned tense when the defender appeared to suffer a calf problem in the second half. The Frenchman was eventually substituted, immediately raising fears that he could miss the defining match of the Saudi season.

The key update Al-Hilal fans wanted to hear

The anxiety surrounding Hernandez’s condition has now eased significantly following fresh reports from Saudi Arabia. According to Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah, the injury is currently considered minor, although the player will still undergo further medical examinations for reassurance.

That update could prove enormous for Al-Hilal heading into Tuesday’s derby. Theo Hernandez is now expected to be available for the direct title clash against Al-Nassr, a development that could dramatically influence Simone Inzaghi’s tactical plans.

Saudi physical therapy specialist Thamer Al-Shahrani had previously explained the situation in cautious terms. “Best case scenario: just a strain and he could be available for the match against Al-Nassr,” he said. He also warned about the alternative possibility. “Worst case scenario: a muscle tear, even if minor, which would rule him out of the Al-Nassr match.”

For now, the outlook appears positive for Simone Inzaghi’s side. The 28-year-old reportedly walked off without assistance after the injury, which immediately gave supporters hope that the issue was less severe than first feared.

For nearly two decades, Messi and Alba shared the same side of the pitch rather than opposite ambitions. Their chemistry became legendary during their years together at Camp Nou, where Alba’s overlapping runs and Messi’s vision terrorized defenses across Europe.

That partnership later continued at Inter Miami, where the duo helped guide the club to major success in MLS. Reports surrounding the pair highlighted how their understanding remained almost untouched by time, with Alba continuing to provide key assists for Messi well into his final season in 2025.

Now, however, soccer has delivered an unexpected twist. Instead of combining for trophies together like they once did, the two icons are indirectly competing in the tense race for promotion from Spain’s fifth tier.

Messi’s new chapter as club owner

Messi’s involvement in Spanish soccer became clearer in April 2026 when it emerged that the Argentine had officially acquired Cornella. The Catalan side, known for developing local talent, suddenly became one of the most talked-about clubs outside Spain’s top divisions.

“UE Cornella announces that Argentinian footballer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi has formalized the acquisition of the club, becoming the new owner of the Baix Llobregat institution,” the club announced in an official statement. The statement continued: “Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth.”

Messi quickly embraced the project publicly, sending a message directly to the players and coaching staff. “I wanted to say hello and tell you that we are here, to grow and to help in whatever way is needed. We are very excited about this new project,” he said.

The Argentine legend has reportedly followed the team closely during the promotion push, even posting messages of support before crucial matches. His arrival immediately transformed the visibility of the Catalan side and intensified expectations around its future.

Jordi Alba’s emotional return home

While Messi began building a new soccer project through ownership, Alba returned to his roots with L’Hospitalet. The now-retired Spanish defender became a key investor and strategic advisor at the club from his hometown, alongside former teammate Thiago Alcantara.

Alba’s emotional connection to the project has been clear from the beginning. During the club’s presentation event, he reportedly spoke about his desire to help the local side grow and fight its way back toward higher divisions in Spanish soccer.

The project quickly gained attention because of the ambition behind it. Former players, local businessmen, and soccer figures united around the idea of restoring L’Hospitalet’s reputation within Catalonia’s soccer scene. That ambition has become very real during the current campaign.

The promotion race reaches boiling point

With four matches remaining in the season, the standings show just how dramatic the battle has become. Manresa currently leads the table with 63 points, while Cornella sits third on 59 points and L’Hospitalet occupies fourth place with 54 points.

The image of the standings highlights how tight the race remains, especially with playoff positions still vulnerable. Cornella has already secured a playoff place and remains mathematically capable of finishing second, while L’Hospitalet continues fighting to protect its postseason spot. The pressure intensified after L’Hospitalet suffered a damaging 3-2 defeat against Badalona.

That result left Alba’s club only one point above Vilanova in the standings. What makes the situation even more surreal is the geography involved. The two clubs are separated by barely a kilometer and a half, turning the promotion battle into a local rivalry carrying enormous significance.

Neither project is close to La Liga yet, but promotion represents the crucial first step toward a larger dream. In Spain’s soccer structure, climbing from the lower divisions requires patience, stability, and long-term planning.

“I have to say two things,” the Real Madrid coach began during Saturday’s press conference. “First, I am very proud of the firmness, speed, and transparency with which the club acted. And second, the players have already expressed their regret. They acknowledged their mistake. They accepted the consequences of what they did and apologized to the fans, the club, the locker room… and to me. That is enough for me.”

After defending the personal and professional qualities of Valverde and Tchouameni, insisting that they “represent very well what Real Madrid are about,” Arbeloa added: “I’m not going to burn my players at the stake publicly, because they do not deserve that.”

The coach then took an unexpected turn in his remarks and pointed to what he considers the real issue. “The fact that things happening inside the locker room are being leaked seems like treason against Real Madrid to me,” he said firmly. “An absolute act of disloyalty toward this badge. And it makes me very sad.”

Arbeloa recalls similar fights between teammates

During the same press conference, a reporter asked Alvaro Arbeloa whether he truly believed the conflict had not been that serious and had instead been exaggerated by the media. “Look… I had a teammate once who picked up a golf club and hit another teammate with it,” the coach responded.

“These are situations that should not happen between teammates, but they have always happened. Everywhere. And I’m not justifying it, not at all. But of course I’ve experienced even worse situations,” added Arbeloa, who played for Real Madrid, Deportivo La Coruna, Liverpool, and West Ham between 2002 and 2017.

Real Madrid prepare for El Clasico

Amid this backdrop of internal conflict and chaos, Real Madrid now face the final major challenge of the 2025-26 season. On Sunday, they will visit Barcelona at Camp Nou in a match they must win to prevent their rivals from clinching the La Liga title.

“Let’s not forget that tomorrow is Barcelona vs. Real Madrid,” Arbeloa said amid the nonstop questions regarding the conflict between Valverde and Tchouameni. “It is the match that draws the most attention in the world… I hope it will be a great match against a great opponent.”

Only a few months ago, Neymar’s World Cup future looked uncertain. The Brazilian star had spent a long period recovering from the serious ACL injury suffered against Uruguay in October 2023, and many believed his international career might quietly fade away before the tournament.

Now, the atmosphere around the Selecao has shifted dramatically. According to Globo Esporte, Carlo Ancelotti has included Neymar in Brazil’s preliminary 55-man list, keeping alive the possibility of a fourth World Cup appearance for the country’s all-time leading scorer.

Since returning to Santos, Neymar has shown flashes of the player the national team has desperately missed. In 12 appearances this season, he has scored five goals and added three assists while steadily rebuilding his fitness. The forward was previously left out of Brazil’s selections due to fitness concerns, with Ancelotti insisting only fully fit players would be considered.

The Brazil manager has been consistent in his stance, previously stating, “I’ve said this several times — I’ll call up the players who are physically ready.” The preliminary list, therefore, acts more as an open door than a final guarantee, especially for players still proving match sharpness.

Return to Santos and signs of revival

Since returning to Santos, Neymar has shown encouraging signs of recovery after a serious knee injury that sidelined him for nearly a year. In his recent run of games, he has contributed five goals and three assists in 12 appearances, gradually rebuilding his rhythm and confidence.

The Piexe has benefited directly from his influence, with improved performances across domestic and continental competitions. Coach Cuca noted, “Neymar is improving with every game. His movement on the ball is much better.” Despite this, questions remain about whether Brazilian domestic action provides enough intensity to match World Cup demands.

Some names that may be on the preliminary list (55 players) that the Brazilian national team will send to FIFA on Monday, May 11:

Goalkeepers:

• Carlos Miguel (Palmeiras)
• Hugo Souza (Corinthians)
• John (Nottingham Forest)

Dedenders:

• Kaiki Bruno (Cruzeiro)
• Fabrício Bruno (Cruzeiro)
• Beraldo (PSG)
• Vitinho (Botafogo)

Midfielders:

• Gabriel Sara (Galatasaray)

Forwards:

• Neymar (Santos)
• Igor Jesus (Nottingham Forest)
• Richarlison (Tottenham)
• Pedro (Flamengo)

When will the final 26-man squad be announced?

This is where the situation becomes decisive. The preliminary 55-man squad will soon be trimmed down, and the final 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup will be announced on May 18, 2026, according to reports surrounding Brazil’s planning timeline.

That final selection will determine whether Neymar travels to what could be his last World Cup. The preliminary list only ensures he remains under consideration, not that he is guaranteed a place. Every player included still faces evaluation based on fitness, form, and tactical suitability.

After weeks of speculation surrounding the country’s status, Iran‘s national soccer team has now made its position clear. The federation announced that the team will compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

The statement from the Iranian federation carried a firm tone while emphasizing that soccer remains the priority. “We will definitely participate in the 2026 World Cup, but the hosts must take our concerns into account,” the federation declared.

Iran also insisted that its participation would happen while maintaining its identity throughout the tournament. “We will participate in the World Cup tournament, but without any retreat from our beliefs, culture, and convictions,” the statement added.

FIFA wants the spotlight on soccer

The situation has arrived at an important moment for FIFA. The 2026 edition is expected to become the largest World Cup in history, featuring 48 national teams for the first time and spreading matches across three countries.

Infantino has repeatedly spoken about the World Cup as a competition designed to unite fans around the globe. During FIFA meetings in recent weeks, the FIFA president reaffirmed that Iran would play its matches in the United States as originally planned.

The tournament itself remains one of the most anticipated sporting events in recent memory. Stadium preparations are already underway, ticket demand continues to rise, and several national teams have begun finalizing training camps and travel plans.

The seven conditions behind Iran’s participation

While Iran confirmed its attendance, the federation also revealed that it had submitted a series of demands tied to the team’s experience during the tournament. The conditions focus heavily on visas, security, media handling, and respect for national symbols throughout the competition.

Iranian soccer chief Mehdi Taj explained that players and staff must receive visas without complications. The federation also requested guarantees regarding treatment at airports, hotels, and stadiums. Another major point involved the protection of the national anthem and official flag during matches.

Iran additionally asked that press conference questions remain focused strictly on soccer matters during the tournament. “All players and technical staff… should be granted visas without any problems,” Taj said during an interview with state television. The federation also requested stronger security arrangements for both players and supporters while traveling between venues.

On the field, Iran’s World Cup journey already promises to attract major interest. The national team has been placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. The Princes of Persia are scheduled to open their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The team is also expected to base itself in Tucson, Arizona, during the tournament.

The Herons are currently a bit behind in the Eastern Conference standings. Although they sit in third place with 19 points, four behind leaders Nashville SC, they have played one more match than each of their closest rivals in the table, meaning their position could potentially worsen in the near future.

That is why Saturday’s match in Canada is so important. Inter Miami will face a lower-quality opponent, which represents a good opportunity to bounce back and get back on track with a victory. However, Toronto FC will not make things easy for Messi and his teammates: they will try to end their five-match winless streak and pull off an upset against the reigning MLS champions.

Confirmed Inter Miami lineup

Head coach Guillermo Hoyos will welcome back several players for the match in Canada. Sergio Reguilon is available after spending several weeks sidelined with physical issues, and the same goes for David Ayala. On the other hand, Ian Fray will not be available, meaning Facundo Mura will be the right-back.

Inter Miami’s projected lineup is: Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Gonzalo Lujan, Micael, Noah Allen; Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi; Luis Suarez, German Berterame.

Confirmed Toronto FC lineup

The Reds did not have a bad start to the MLS season, but their level has declined as the campaign has progressed, to the point that their last victory came more than a month ago. Now, coach Robin Fraser faces the challenge of ending that negative streak against Messi and company.

Toronto FC’s confirmed lineup is: Luka Gavran; Kobe Franklin, Zane Monlouis, Walker Zimmerman, Raheem Edwards; Alonso Coello, Jonathan Osorio, Malik Henry, Markus Cimermancic, Daniel Salloi, Deandre Kerr.

Despite Mbappe continuing to deliver extraordinary numbers in front of goal, the mood around the club has shifted dramatically in recent weeks. Real Madrid’s struggles in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the Copa del Rey have pushed many supporters toward anger, and the noise surrounding the team has only intensified before El Clasico against Barcelona.

The controversy began after an online petition titled “Mbappe Out” spread rapidly across social media platforms. According to multiple reports, the petition gathered more than 50 million signatures within days, far surpassing its original target of 200,000 signatures. The message attached to the campaign read: “Madridistas, make your voice heard. If you believe change is needed, don’t stay silent — sign this petition and stand for what you think is best for the club’s future.”

Photos circulating online showed the Frenchman spending time in Italy while recovering from a hamstring injury. Although reports stated that the trip had been approved internally by Real Madrid’s medical staff, many fans questioned the timing, especially with El Clasico approaching and the club’s season hanging by a thread.

The situation quickly transformed into a social media storm. Supporters flooded comment sections, reposted images connected to the petition, and openly debated whether the 27-year-old star had become a symbol of the club’s recent decline despite his remarkable individual statistics.

Mbappe’s numbers tell a very different story

The backlash has surprised many observers because Mbappe remains Real Madrid’s most productive attacking player. As per statistical data confirmed by Transfermarkt and Sofascore, the France captain has scored 85 goals in 100 appearances since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain.

This season alone, the forward has reportedly produced 41 goals in 41 appearances, numbers that would normally place him beyond criticism. Even with the controversy surrounding him, Mbappe continues to lead conversations about the world’s elite players because of his consistency in front of goal.

Alvaro Arbeloa attempted to calm the growing storm during a recent press conference. The Real Madrid coach defended his player and insisted that the club remained in control of the recovery process. “All planning with injured players is supervised by the medical staff,” the manager explained, before adding, “In his free time, Mbappe can do whatever he considers appropriate, like any other player.”

Can the petition actually change Real Madrid’s stance?

As the petition gained attention worldwide, many supporters began asking whether such a movement could genuinely influence Real Madrid’s decision-makers. The short answer appears to be no. According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid has no plans to sell Mbappe, and the player remains under contract until 2029.

Multiple reports described the petition as largely symbolic rather than something capable of forcing institutional change at the Santiago Bernabeu. The issue becomes even more complicated because the petition itself has faced serious questions regarding authenticity. Several cybersecurity experts and online investigators claimed that the signature count may have been artificially inflated through bots and automated systems.

A community note on X (formerly Twitter) reveals that users were able to vote repeatedly without email verification or identity confirmation. Cybersecurity specialist Clement Domingo reportedly tested the platform himself and concluded that manipulation was extremely easy. “I can vote 100 times in less than a second,” Domingo claimed while discussing the flaws in the petition’s system.

Other analysts suggested that the constantly increasing signature counter appeared suspicious, leading many observers to question whether the reported totals reflected genuine supporter opinion or simply online chaos amplified by social media algorithms.

The situation has spiraled quickly for Real Madrid after a season marked by poor results, internal tension, and public controversies. Various reports from Spain suggest that the club no longer believes Arbeloa can recover control of the squad, especially after multiple dressing-room disputes and the recent altercation involving Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni.

Thus, Arbeloa is now expected to leave at the end of the season after failing to guide the club back to major silverware. It is said that several players have stopped communicating with the coach, while senior figures inside the club are already preparing for a managerial transition this summer.

Mourinho emerges as Florentino Perez’s preferred choice

Jose Mourinho has rapidly become the leading candidate to return to the Santiago Bernabeu more than a decade after his first spell with the club. The Portuguese coach, currently in charge of Benfica, reportedly remains highly admired by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. According to reports from Diario AS and Matteo Moretto, “significant progress” has already been made in talks regarding Mourinho’s return. 

The club reportedly views him as the strongest personality capable of restoring order inside a fractured dressing room. Mourinho is said to be open to the move, while Benfica is already preparing contingency plans in case he departs. His current contract reportedly contains a release clause worth around $3.5 million, a fee Los Blancos would have little difficulty paying.

The growing chaos behind the scenes has only strengthened Mourinho’s case. Reports from Spain describe the atmosphere inside the dressing room as deeply divided, with players split into rival groups and tensions continuing to rise after several public disagreements.

The reason behind Didier Deschamps’ rise

While Mourinho remains the clear favorite, another name has quietly climbed the shortlist: Didier Deschamps. Initially viewed as an outsider, the France manager is now considered one of the club’s most respected alternatives.

Real Madrid highly values Deschamps for his experience managing a dressing room full of superstar personalities with the France national team. Club officials reportedly believe that skill could become essential with so many strong characters currently inside the squad, including Mbappe himself.

Reports from El Mundo’s Abraham Romero state that Deschamps is viewed internally as “Plan B” behind Mourinho. The French coach’s ability to maintain balance inside the France setup has reportedly impressed decision-makers at the Bernabeu.

That detail could represent a huge boost for Mbappe. The forward has spent years working under Deschamps with the France national team, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup together and reaching another final in 2022. Inside Real Madrid, there appears to be a growing belief that familiarity and trust could help stabilize the situation around Mbappe during a turbulent period for the club.

Match Overview

Inter Miami enter their next Eastern Conference showdown searching for a response after a wild 4-3 defeat to Orlando City SC in the Florida Derby extended Lionel Messi’s side’s winless streak to two matches. With the playoff race beginning to heat up, Miami know another costly result could hurt its momentum.

But Toronto FC will be equally motivated as they sit eighth in the standings with 14 points and aim to strengthen their postseason push against a direct conference rival. With both clubs chasing a crucial victory, this matchup promises plenty of intensity and is one fans won’t want to miss.

Match Overview

Manchester City’s Premier League title defense hangs by a thread after a costly 3-3 draw with Everton. The result leaves them trailing Arsenal, and the pressure is immense as they return to the Etihad Stadium. With their destiny no longer in their own hands, Pep Guardiola’s side faces a must-win scenario to keep their championship hopes alive. Their formidable home record, where they are unbeaten in 15 matches, will be put to the ultimate test.

Brentford arrives in Manchester full of confidence and with their own ambitions. Fresh off a dominant 3-0 victory against West Ham, the Bees are in a heated race for European qualification. Defying all preseason expectations, they are a resilient and fearless side known for their late-game heroics. This clash is not just about City‘s title aspirations; it’s a pivotal moment for a Brentford team looking to make a statement and secure a historic place in Europe.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The trajectories of these two clubs could not be more different at this crucial stage of the season. Manchester City, a team built for championship run-ins, has shown uncharacteristic vulnerability, dropping vital points. In contrast, Brentford is on an upward surge, turning a season of predicted struggle into a potential European campaign. City‘s strength at home is well-documented, scoring at least twice in 13 of their last 15 games at the Etihad, but Brentford‘s knack for scoring late goals makes them a persistent threat.

The tactical battle will likely pit City‘s possession-heavy, attacking football against Brentford‘s organized and disruptive counter-attacking strategy. City’s major weakness is a recently destabilized defense, hit hard by injuries to key players. This vulnerability will be the primary target for Brentford, who will look to expose City‘s backline with the physicality and clinical finishing of striker Igor Thiago. The game could be decided by whether City‘s elite attack can overwhelm Brentford before their own defense is breached.

Motivation is at a fever pitch for both sides. For Manchester City, anything less than three points could be a fatal blow to their title defense. The urgency is palpable, and they must respond with a dominant performance. For Brentford, the stakes are equally high as they fight to secure a top-six finish. A positive result at the Etihad would be a massive step toward achieving a dream European qualification, making this a high-stakes encounter for both teams.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, Manchester City has held a clear advantage in this fixture. The Citizens are currently on a six-game unbeaten streak against Brentford, winning five of those matches and drawing just once. This pattern of dominance underscores the challenge facing the visitors, who have not secured a victory against City since 2023.

Recent encounters have followed this trend. The teams have met twice already this season, with Manchester City emerging victorious on both occasions without conceding a goal. They secured a narrow 1-0 win in the Premier League at the Gtech Community Stadium and a more comfortable 2-0 victory at home in the EFL Cup. These results highlight City’s ability to control the game and shut down Brentford’s attack.

Despite City‘s dominance in wins, the matches have often been tightly contested affairs. The last five meetings have produced an average of just 2.2 goals per game, suggesting that Brentford consistently makes it difficult for City to score freely. Furthermore, Manchester City has managed to keep three clean sheets in those five games, a trend they will be desperate to continue given their current defensive issues.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Manchester City is grappling with a significant defensive crisis at the worst possible time, while Brentford arrives with a more settled lineup despite some notable long-term absentees.

Pep Guardiola is facing major selection headaches at the back. Key defenders Rúben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are out with hamstring and leg injuries, respectively, leaving a significant void in central defense. To compound matters, the influential holding midfielder Rodri is also a doubt due to physical discomfort, potentially forcing a major reshuffle and leaving the team exposed.

Brentford manager Keith Andrews will be without several players, including Jordan Henderson, Rico Henry, and Fábio Carvalho, but the core of the team that defeated West Ham is fit and available. The consistency in their lineup has been a key factor in their successful season, and they will look to leverage that stability against a patched-up City defense.

Manchester City Projected XI (4-2-3-1):

Donnarumma; O’Reilly, Khusanov, Guehi, Nunes; Gonzalez, Silva; Doku, Cherki, Semenyo; Haaland.

This lineup reflects the forced changes due to injuries. The offensive burden will fall heavily on Erling Haaland to convert chances, while the creative spark from players like Jeremy Doku will be essential to break down Brentford‘s organized defense and compensate for any defensive frailties.

Brentford Projected XI (3-5-2):

Kelleher; Collins, van den Berg, Ajer; Lewis-Potter, Yarmolyuk, Jensen, Damsgaard, Kayode; Schade, Thiago.

Brentford‘s 3-5-2 formation provides defensive solidity with three central defenders while allowing the wing-backs to push forward and support the attack. Igor Thiago will serve as the focal point up front, using his strength to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play on the counter.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Manchester City vs Brentford live stream exclusively on DirecTV Stream. The platform is available on a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and iOS and Android mobile devices, as well as through your web browser.

A subscription to DirecTV Stream not only gives you access to this crucial Premier League match but also to a host of other top soccer competitions. You can stream other leagues and tournaments, providing comprehensive coverage for any soccer fan.

The service is available for a monthly fee of $69.99. This plan includes access to all live matches, on-demand replays, and expert analysis shows, making it a complete package for watching the beautiful game.

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Match Overview

Sunderland‘s celebrated return to the Premier League has been a success, with their top-flight status comfortably secured. However, a recent dip in form has seen them struggle, particularly at the Stadium of Light. After losing four of their last five home matches, including a heavy 5-0 defeat, the Black Cats are desperate to deliver a statement performance for their fans and push for a top-half finish.

Manchester United arrives in high spirits after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool, a result that officially punched their ticket to next season’s Champions League. Under interim manager Michael Carrick, the Red Devils have experienced a dramatic turnaround. With their primary objective achieved, the pressure is off, but the expectation to dominate and finish the season with authority remains.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This match features a clash of teams on different trajectories. Sunderland started the season strong, building their success on defensive solidity, but have since seen their form and creativity wane. In contrast, Manchester United has surged under new leadership, transforming from a team in disarray to one of the league’s most potent attacking forces, overcoming an underwhelming start to their campaign.

The tactical battle will likely see Manchester United control possession and territory. The Red Devils boast the highest number of shots per game in the league and rank among the top for goals scored. Their aerial threat from players like Casemiro and Harry Maguire will test a Sunderland defense that, despite its early-season resilience, has recently shown fragility and concedes a high volume of shots.

While the biggest prizes are off the table, motivation is not lacking. Sunderland is fighting to secure a top-half finish, a significant achievement for a newly promoted club. For Manchester United, every game is a chance to build on their revival under Carrick, with players looking to solidify their roles for the future as the club prepares for a busy summer transfer window.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been dominated by Manchester United. The Red Devils have won four of the last five encounters between the clubs, establishing a clear pattern of superiority in recent years. Sunderland‘s lone victory in that span came back in 2016.

Manchester United is currently on a three-game winning streak against the Black Cats, including a decisive 2-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season. This recent history suggests United has had the tactical edge, effectively neutralizing Sunderland‘s attack while consistently finding ways to score.

Defensively, United has been particularly effective in this matchup, keeping a clean sheet in three of the last five meetings. Sunderland has struggled to find the net, failing to score in their last two games against the Red Devils and managing only three goals total across the last five clashes.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Manchester United enters the match in relatively good health, while Sunderland must cope with a key suspension and several injuries.

For Sunderland, the absence of defender Daniel Ballard due to a red-card suspension is a major blow to their backline. The team is also without goalkeeper Simon Moore and attackers Nilson Angulo and Bertrand Traoré, limiting their options and depth for this challenging fixture.

Manchester United‘s primary concern is Matthijs de Ligt, who remains sidelined with a back injury. Striker Benjamin Sesko aggravated a shin issue in the last match but is expected to be fit to lead the line. Otherwise, Michael Carrick has a nearly full-strength squad to choose from.

Sunderland Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Reinildo, Alderete, Mukiele, Hume; Sadiki, Xhaka; Le Fee, Diarra, Talbi; Brobbey.

This formation emphasizes a solid defensive base with a double pivot in midfield designed to disrupt United‘s rhythm. With key players missing, Sunderland will rely on a compact shape and look to hit on the counter-attack through their lone striker, Brobbey.

Manchester United Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Shaw, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Casemiro, Mainoo; Cunha, Fernandes, Mbeumo; Sesko.

This is a formidable attacking lineup, with Bruno Fernandes orchestrating play from the number ten role. With the dynamic duo of Mainoo and Casemiro controlling the midfield and Sesko providing a physical presence up front, United will aim to dominate the game from the start.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Sunderland vs Manchester United match on Peacock. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV, as well as on web browsers and mobile apps for iOS and Android.

In addition to the Premier League, a subscription to Peacock gives you access to other top soccer competitions, including Liga MX and various cup tournaments. It is the go-to destination for soccer fans in the United States.

A subscription costs just $10.99/mo or you can opt for an annual plan to save money. The plan gives you access to every live match, plus replays and highlights on-demand.

SEE MORE: [Link to general Premier League TV schedule]

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Match Overview

Liverpool hosts Chelsea at Anfield in a crucial Premier League showdown with significant implications for both clubs. For the Reds, the mission is simple: secure a victory to lock in their spot in next season’s Champions League. Coming off a stinging 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Manchester United, the pressure is on for Liverpool to deliver a statement win in front of their home crowd and achieve their final objective in a challenging season.

Meanwhile, Chelsea arrives in Merseyside in a state of crisis. The Blues are enduring a disastrous run of form, having lost six consecutive league matches for the first time in 33 years. Currently sitting ninth in the table, they are in serious danger of missing out on European competition entirely. With an FA Cup final on the horizon, Chelsea is desperate to halt their slide and salvage some pride in what has become a season to forget.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

This season has been a story of unmet expectations for Liverpool, who are approaching a club record for defeats in a single campaign. Despite their struggles, their goal of Champions League qualification remains within reach. In stark contrast, Chelsea‘s season has completely unraveled. Once considered contenders for a top-four spot, they have plummeted down the standings, with their only hope for redemption resting on the upcoming FA Cup final.

The tactical battle will likely see Liverpool dominate possession and territory, leveraging their Anfield advantage. However, the Reds have shown defensive fragility, particularly from set-pieces, and have a tendency to concede the opening goal. Chelsea’s primary challenge is their lack of confidence and attacking rhythm. They recently snapped a 565-minute goal drought and have been leaking goals on the road, making them vulnerable to Liverpool’s attacking pressure.

Liverpool‘s motivation is straightforward: a win guarantees them a place among Europe’s elite next season, providing a positive end to a turbulent year. For Chelsea, the objective is to stop the bleeding. A positive result at Anfield would be a massive morale boost ahead of their cup final and could prevent them from slipping out of the Premier League‘s top ten.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been tightly contested. Across the last ten Premier League encounters between the two clubs, there have been five draws, with Chelsea claiming three wins to Liverpool’s two. However, the dynamic shifts significantly at Anfield, where Liverpool has been dominant, losing just one of the last ten league meetings against the Blues while winning four.

Recent matches have consistently produced goals and drama. Liverpool has won the last two head-to-head clashes at Anfield, scoring a combined six goals. The reverse fixture earlier this season saw Chelsea snatch a late 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge, a result Liverpool will be eager to avenge.

A clear trend in recent history is the frequency of goals. Both teams have scored in the last five league meetings, with those games averaging an impressive 3.4 goals per match. This pattern suggests that another open, attacking contest is highly likely, as neither side has demonstrated consistent defensive solidity.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both squads are contending with significant player availability issues that will force tactical adjustments from their managers.

Liverpool is facing an injury crisis in their attack, with key forwards Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike ruled out, and Alexander Isak remaining a doubt. This severely limits their offensive options and puts more pressure on Cody Gakpo to lead the line. The goalkeeping situation is also a concern, as third-choice keeper Freddie Woodman is expected to start due to injuries to Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili.

For Chelsea, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is expected to be fit despite picking up a head injury in their last match. Mykhailo Mudryk is unavailable due to suspension, which will likely see Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto occupy the wings. Following his spectacular bicycle-kick goal against Nottingham Forest, Joao Pedro is set to continue as the central striker, tasked with finding a breakthrough against the Liverpool defense.

Liverpool Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Woodman; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, MacAllister; Frimpong, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Gakpo
With their primary goalscorers sidelined, Liverpool‘s lineup is built for creativity and pace. Wirtz and Frimpong will provide the attacking threat from wide positions, while Szoboszlai supports Gakpo from a central role. The makeshift defense and third-choice keeper will need to be sharp to handle Chelsea‘s attackers.

Chelsea Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; Gusto, Chalobah, Adarabioyo, Cucurella; Caicedo, Lavia; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Pedro
Chelsea will rely on the individual brilliance of Cole Palmer and the playmaking of Enzo Fernandez in an advanced midfield role. Joao Pedro will look to build on his recent goal, but the team’s overall lack of cohesion remains a major hurdle. The defense must find a way to contain Liverpool‘s press at Anfield.

More details on how to watch

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Kroos said: “Luis Enrique substitutes the best player in the world at 65 minutes and he leaves, that’s correct. He high-fives the manager and then he cheers for his teammates from the bench. There are certainly many counterexamples.”

Those were not the only compliments Kroos had to make: “You see how he screams for his teammates from the bench, unlike 90% of the rest who think they are the stars of their teams, making gestures on the field while walking off and then sitting on the bench with a bad expression on their face.”

Kroos on Luis Enrique

The former midfielder also spoke highly of the manager, pointing to Dembélé’s reaction when he was replaced by Bradley Barcola in a match that was still far from over. For the German, the respect Luis Enrique commands is important because he had strong managers throughout his career.

Choosing to keep Desiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on the field while taking off the player who was crowned best last year was clearly a decision that could have made a difference, and that is what led to Kroos’ praise.

Kroos said: “Why did he take Dembélé out? Because the manager saw he was tired and that Doué and Kvaratskhelia were better that day, so he took him out. Period. Nobody complains. That shows the respect they have for the manager.”

Kroos also praised Kvaratskhelia

The other player he praised was the Georgian, for his talent combined with effort. Kvaratskhelia made a huge play in Paris Saint-Germain’s goal, carrying the ball half the field before providing an easy assist for his teammate: “He works like crazy, and he is still a world-class player.”

For much of the season, Ronaldo’s side appeared firmly in control. Now, however, the resurgence of its closest challenger has introduced uncertainty, turning what once looked like a comfortable march toward the title into a high-pressure sprint.

Al-Hilal delivered a crucial 2-1 comeback victory over Al-Khaleej, a result that has significantly tightened the title race. After falling behind early to a strike from Joshua King, the team showed resilience to respond through Sergej Milinkovic-Savic before Sultan Mandash sealed the win late in the match.

The performance was far from straightforward, as Al-Khaleej tested the visitors throughout the contest. Still, the final outcome ensured that Al-Hilal reduced the gap at the top to just two points, keeping the title dream very much alive. The win came at a perfect moment for the challenger, especially after Al-Nassr suffered a shock 3-1 defeat to Al-Qadsiah.

That loss not only ended a remarkable 20-game winning streak but also exposed vulnerabilities that had gone largely unnoticed during their dominant run. Suddenly, the narrative has changed. What once looked like a one-sided race has evolved into a tense duel, with both sides aware that even the smallest mistake could prove decisive.

Benzema’s influence grows

Although Karim Benzema only appeared late in the match against Al-Khaleej, his presence continues to loom large over the title battle. The French forward even found the net in the closing stages, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside.

His growing influence reflects a broader shift within Al-Hilal, where experience and depth are beginning to make the difference. For Ronaldo and Al-Nassr, that adds another layer of pressure as the season reaches its climax.

When will the title be decided?

Statistically, the margins between the two sides are incredibly tight. Al-Nassr sits on 82 points after 32 matches, while Al-Hilal trails closely with 77 in 31 games, as very little separates them with just two games to go.

The defining moment of the season is fast approaching. A direct clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal on May 12 will ultimately determine the Saudi Pro League champion, provided both teams handle their preceding fixtures successfully.

In that scenario, the stakes are clear. A win for Al-Nassr would likely secure the title. At the same time, a victory for Al-Hilal would cut the gap back to just two points and, with a game in hand, give Simone Inzaghi’s side a realistic opportunity to leapfrog Al-Nassr in the next two games and take control of the title race.

Broughton said: “Lewandowski is a player that MLS is interested in. It’s important to remember that in MLS, players belong to the league, not directly to the clubs. We have shown our interest in trying to bring a player of that caliber to Chicago. Robert is still a Barcelona player, and it wouldn’t be right to talk too much about a player who is under contract with another club.”

Lewandowski has shown that he can still be important in the biggest matches. Injuries have limited him a bit recently, but they have not been a recurring problem throughout his career. What could ultimately decide his departure from Barcelona is whether he agrees to lower his salary, something the club is expected to ask him to do.

Juventus and Milan are also interested

Lewandowski’s suitors could come from several places, with MLS facing strong competition from Saudi Arabia if the forward wants more money. However, those are not the only possible options.

If the Polish striker decides he still wants to continue at the highest competitive level after leaving his current club, Italy is the main country showing interest, with several big clubs already talking to his agent.

Those clubs are Juventus and Milan, both of which could offer a much lower salary than other markets. Barcelona representative Deco is set to meet with the player’s agent, Pini Zahavi, according to Sport. Until Lewandowski decides whether or not to stay, interested clubs will have to wait.

Lewandowski’s numbers

Lewandowski is finishing the season with his weakest numbers since his first year at Borussia Dortmund, when he scored nine goals, well below his usual standard. Barcelona have only used him in 42 matches this season and he has scored 18 goals.

The atmosphere around the Spanish giant has reportedly become chaotic in recent weeks. From dressing-room disputes to disagreements involving senior stars, Real Madrid is now facing one of its most turbulent periods in years as the club searches for answers before next season begins.

The situation escalated dramatically following reports of a physical altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni during training. According to multiple reports from Diario AS, COPE, and OndaCero, Valverde was later taken to hospital after suffering a head injury during the incident.

The conflict reportedly exposed deeper fractures inside the dressing room. Several players are said to have stopped speaking to Alvaro Arbeloa, while the squad has allegedly split into different groups following a difficult campaign without major trophies.

Arbeloa, who replaced Xabi Alonso earlier in the season after Zinedine Zidane declined a return, has come under increasing pressure. Fabrizio Romano reported that the former defender has “less than 10% chances to stay” at the end of the season, with the club already preparing for change.

Arbeloa blamed as Mbappe becomes part of the growing controversy

The former Real Madrid defender initially arrived with hopes of calming the squad and rebuilding harmony. Instead, reports claim the board has become frustrated with his handling of the dressing room, particularly after the Valverde-Tchouameni incident.

“Arbeloa didn’t intervene at all during yesterday’s fight — Real Madrid board are aware of that,” El Mundo stated. That detail reportedly angered figures inside the club hierarchy, who now view the manager as unable to control the situation.

According to Diario AS, at least six players have effectively fallen out with Arbeloa. Dani Carvajal, Dani Ceballos, Raul Asencio, and Alvaro Carreras were all mentioned in reports surrounding internal disagreements with the coach.

Mbappe’s arrival in the summer of 2024 was initially viewed as the beginning of a new golden era. Instead, several reports now claim that his signing unintentionally accelerated tensions inside the squad. There are also claims that the Frenchman frustrated teammates after travelling to Italy during a difficult stretch of the season rather than remaining closer to the squad.

Mourinho talks intensify behind the scenes as Madrid’s key decision emerges

As the crisis deepened, Mourinho’s name quickly re-emerged as a serious candidate for the job. Reports from The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Real Madrid has already opened discussions with the Portuguese manager’s representatives.

The final decision on Mourinho’s return now rests with Florentino Perez, who is personally driving the process behind the scenes. Fabrizio Romano revealed on X (formerly Twitter): “Operation Mourinho has started at Real Madrid.” He also noted that “it depends on Madrid. Up to Florentino Perez: he will decide if Mourinho returns or not.”

The implication is clear: the structure of the club is weighing a decisive shift in leadership direction. The Portuguese boss reportedly remains open to returning to the Bernabeu despite currently managing Benfica. His contract supposedly includes a release clause worth around $3.5 million, a figure Real Madrid could easily activate if Perez chooses to move forward in a bid to reset control.

Pulisic entered 2026 in excellent form after a brilliant first half of the campaign with Milan. Before the turn of the year, he had already scored 10 goals across competitions and was widely considered one of the club’s most consistent attacking players.

However, the months that followed brought a rare drought for the American star. Pulisic has failed to score for either Milan or the United States throughout 2026 so far, leading to growing criticism from supporters and pundits alike. According to ESPN, it is the longest goal drought of his club career.

The attention around his form became even louder because of the timing. The United States is preparing to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, with Pulisic expected to carry the national team as its leading figure.

The pressure surrounding Pulisic grew even more after he appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. The feature described him as “already the most influential American men’s soccer player in the country’s 250-year history.”

Pulisic finally reveals his response to critics

While many questioned how he planned to escape the slump, Pulisic delivered a blunt answer that quickly went viral. The Milan star’s plan to silence critics is simple: score goals again. “I plan on scoring goals. Such bad questions. I’m not concerned about it, man,” Pulisic told TIME when asked about his drought.

The American also explained why criticism frustrates him more during periods away from matches. “That time was difficult for me, because normally I can shut people up with my play. That’s what I’ve done my whole career,” he admitted. “I’m in my offseason, so people are just talking about me, and I can’t just go freaking score and shut them up.”

Those comments reflected a player who still believes fully in his ability despite the outside noise. Pulisic has built much of his career on responding during difficult moments, whether at Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, or now Milan.

The World Cup dream still drives him

Throughout the interviews, one theme continued to emerge: Pulisic’s belief in the USMNT’s potential at the World Cup. Even after recent defeats in friendlies and growing criticism around the squad, he refuses to lower expectations.

“That’s just not how I work,” Pulisic said when asked about making promises for the tournament. “But I can sit in my bed at night and picture holding up the World Cup trophy. I did that as a kid. I’m not going to stop. You have to believe. Why not?”

His longtime teammate Weston McKennie also backed him strongly during the difficult stretch. “I don’t think any of us are worried whether he’s going to be firing on all cylinders,” McKennie said. “It may not be clicking for him right now. But I have no doubt it will be at the World Cup.”

Messi said: “There’s a new generation of players that’s very good and has many years ahead, but if I have to choose one for his age, for what he has done so far and for the future he could have, it’s Yamal. There’s no doubt, he’s the best.”

Even if these two have not faced each other on the field since the cancellation of the Finalissima, the respect between them is clear as Messi has consistently supported Barcelona’s young heir.

Messi compared to Yamal

Longevity may be a major advantage for Messi, since he is still making a difference 20 years after his debut. But the comparison goes the other way when you look at the start of their careers, where Yamal has been far more productive early on.

Yamal turns 19 in July, but he will not play another match for Barcelona before then, so his current club record stands at 151 appearances and 49 goals. He was also last year’s Ballon d’Or runner-up.

Messi was expected to be great from a young age, but he did not become a regular first-team player until the 2006-07 season, after his 19th birthday. At the same age Yamal is now, Messi had played 34 matches and scored nine goals.

More differences with their respective countries

The gap in club appearances is significant, but it is even larger at international level. Yamal was called up to Spain’s senior team at 16 years and 50 days, and even in a very strong national side he became decisive in their 2024 European Championship title run. Messi was part of Argentina’s 2006 World Cup squad as a substitute, and had played six matches at age 19.

“FIFA are planning to hold opening ceremonies at each of the first games of the World Cup featuring host nations this summer, as well as special ceremonies to mark America’s 250th anniversary at games in Houston and Philadelphia on July 4,” journalist Adam Crafton reported Friday in The Athletic.

The first match of the World Cup will take place on Thursday, June 11, at Estadio Azteca, where Mexico and South Africa will open Group A. “This will feature performances from the multi-Grammy-award winning Mexican rock band Mana, as well as popstar Alejandro Fernandez and singer Belinda,” the report states. Los Angeles Azules and Tyla are also reportedly expected to participate.

One day later, Group B action will begin at BMO Field in Toronto, where Canada will face Bosnia and Herzegovina. The hosts are also expected to have their own pregame show. According to The Athletic, Canadian singers Michael Buble, Alanis Morissette, and Alessia Cara are among the stars set to perform at the event.

The United States to host multiple special events

Like Mexico and Canada, the United States will also have its own opening ceremony when the USMNT make their World Cup debut against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Friday, June 12.

“Katy Perry is lined up as the headliner. Other American talent signed up by FIFA includes the rapper Future, as well as Bangladeshi-American Sanjoy, who is a Los Angeles-based DJ,” Adam Crafton reported. In addition, South Korean girl group Blackpink and Paraguayan artist Marilina Bogado have also reportedly been hired by FIFA.

But that will not be the only special occasion for the United States. During the World Cup, the country will also celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Because of that, the matches played on July 4 will include special celebrations, although few details have been revealed so far.

The teams participating in those two matches have not yet been determined, since both games belong to the Round of 16. The first will take place at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia and could feature France and Germany if both teams finish first in their groups and then advance through the Round of 32, although there is also a chance the USMNT could be involved. The other match will be held at NRG Stadium in Houston, with Mexico, Canada, Brazil, and the Netherlands among the potential participants.

The Portuguese superstar played a key role in Al-Nassr’s 4-2 victory over Al-Shabab, scoring a second-half goal that restored control during a tense period of the match. The win helped the club extend its lead over Al-Hilal at the top of the Saudi league table.

Joao Felix stole headlines with a hat-trick, but Ronaldo’s contribution carried major weight in the title race. His finish came at a stage when Al-Shabab had begun to threaten a comeback, making the goal even more significant in context. The match took a dramatic turn when Ali Al-Bulayhi, playing against Al-Nassr while on loan at Al-Shabab, scored to bring the scoreline to 3-2.

What followed quickly became one of the most talked-about incidents of the season. After finding the net, loanee Al-Bulayhi pulled out a shin guard displaying the crest of Al-Hilal and kissed it in front of the cameras. The gesture was widely interpreted as a bold reference to his parent club, which is also locked in a fierce title race with Al-Nassr.

The celebration divided opinion immediately. Some saw it as harmless loyalty to his parent club, while others viewed it as disrespectful toward Al-Shabab, the club he was representing at the time.

Al-Shabab makes strong internal decision

The situation escalated quickly after the match, with reports confirming a severe reaction from within Al-Shabab. Apparently, Ali Al-Bulayhi has now been removed from the squad following the controversy surrounding his celebration, as revealed by Shabab1World on X (formerly Twitter). The club views the incident as disrespectful toward the institution.

The removal effectively sidelines the defender from the upcoming three fixtures, against Neom, Al-Ittihad, and the Saudi Pro League final matchday, against Al-Najma. What initially looked like a bold act of defiance toward Ronaldo and Al-Nassr suddenly became a moment that could seriously damage the defender’s standing at his current club.

The reports created even more tension because Al-Bulayhi’s goal had briefly threatened to reopen the title race. Had Al-Shabab found an equalizer, Al-Hilal would have gained a massive psychological advantage heading into the upcoming derby against Al-Nassr. Instead, the Knight of Najd survived the scare and sealed the victory deep into stoppage time when Joao Felix converted a penalty to complete his hat-trick.

What did Al-Bulayhi say?

Former Saudi international Fahad Al Harifi also criticised the gesture, insisting that “professionalism and respect should always come first, regardless of loan situations or previous club affiliations.”

As criticism intensified, the 36-year-old released a public apology addressing both the club and its supporters. He insisted that the celebration was spontaneous and not intended to offend anyone. “I present my apology to the historic Al-Shabab club and its loyal supporters… my expression of joy was spontaneous, without any intention of offense,” he said in a statement.

Al-Hilal lifted the King’s Cup after defeating Al-Kholood 2-1 in a dramatic final. Simone Inzaghi secured his first trophy since arriving in Saudi Arabia, continuing a remarkable run that has seen his side lose only once in 50 matches. Nevertheless, the evening started badly for the Blue Waves after Ramiro Enrique stunned the crowd with an early opener for Al-Kholood.

The response, however, showed exactly why the club remains one of the dominant forces in Saudi soccer. Nasser Al-Dawsari equalized shortly before halftime with a thunderous strike that reignited the atmosphere inside the stadium. Moments later, Theo Hernandez completed the comeback with a powerful low finish from outside the area after receiving a pass from Karim Benzema.

The French defender delivered one of his best performances since joining Al-Hilal. He recorded a goal, a key pass, five duel wins, and maintained a 90 percent passing accuracy while constantly threatening down the left flank. According to Sofascore’s post-match statistics, the Frenchman completed 54 of his 60 passes and remained heavily involved throughout the final. His display helped Al-Hilal secure its 10th King’s Cup title, reinforcing the growing belief that the club can still turn the league race around.

Hernandez’s injury concern suddenly changed the mood

The celebrations did not last long without concern, though. During the second half, Hernandez appeared uncomfortable and was eventually forced off after suffering a calf issue. At first, there was uncertainty regarding the severity of the problem. The sight of the defender walking off without assistance offered some encouragement, but medical analysis later suggested the situation may still require close monitoring.

Saudi physical therapist specialist Thamer Al-Shahrani later explained the nature of the injury. According to his assessment on X (formerly Twitter), Hernandez suffered “a calf muscle injury caused by a minor sprain, which could lead to sudden internal tightening of the muscle.”

The specialist also revealed two possible scenarios. “Best case scenario: just a strain and he could be available for the match against Al-Nassr,” he explained. However, the warning attached to the second possibility immediately raised concern inside Al-Hilal circles. “Worst case scenario: a muscle tear, even if minor, which would rule him out of the Al-Nassr match.”

Al-Nassr waits as the title race reaches boiling point

Naturally, the developments surrounding Hernandez are being watched closely by Ronaldo and Al-Nassr. Next Tuesday’s showdown between the Riyadh rivals could ultimately decide the destination of the Saudi Pro League trophy.

Al-Nassr currently sits five points clear at the top of the table, although Al-Hilal still holds a game in hand. Victory for Ronaldo’s side would virtually secure the championship and end the club’s long wait for another league crown.

The pressure surrounding the match has only intensified because of Ronaldo’s own recent form. The Portuguese superstar reached 100 Saudi Pro League goals during the 4-2 victory against Al-Shabab, continuing a remarkable campaign at the age of 41.

For Ronaldo, winning the Saudi Pro League would represent one of the defining achievements of his move to the Middle East. Since arriving in Riyadh in late 2022, he has transformed the global perception of Saudi soccer while helping attract some of the sport’s biggest stars to the league.

“Does Neymar have to go to the World Cup?” Messi was asked during a recent interview on Lo Del Pollo. “I can’t be objective. Neymar is a friend, and obviously I would love for him to be at the World Cup and for good things to happen to him. He deserves it because of the kind of person he is,” the Argentine forward began.

“It would be great to see him at the World Cup because of what he means to Brazil and to soccer. Hopefully he can be there,” Messi later added. The Argentine star played alongside Neymar at Barcelona between 2013 and 2017, and later at Paris Saint-Germain from 2021 to 2023.

“At the World Cup, we want the best players to be there, and Ney, no matter what condition he’s in, will always be one of them,” Leo said, dismissing the doubts many have raised because of Neymar’s physical problems in recent years. “I can’t be objective because for me he always has to be there.”

Messi discusses his relationship with Neymar

After spending six years together in Spain and France, and also facing each other several times internationally in matches between Argentina and Brazil, Neymar and Lionel Messi built a friendship that remains strong to this day, despite no longer seeing each other regularly.

“We talk from time to time, and we have a friendship that goes back many years,” Messi explained in the same interview. “He has a very special charisma. He doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not. He lives his life exactly as he is and acts according to what he feels and thinks, without caring about the repercussions. He lives his life, he’s happy, and he’s very genuine.”

Ronaldinho also pushes for Neymar

Almost simultaneously with Lionel Messi’s comments, another soccer legend also expressed support for Neymar’s return to the Brazil national team ahead of the World Cup. “It would be crazy,” Ronaldinho said about the possibility of Neymar being left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad for North America 2026 during a conversation with Denilson shared by GeGlobo.

“The only way I would understand it is if there’s some injury issue,” added the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner. “But if he’s healthy, there’s no way he shouldn’t go, right? With all due respect to everyone else, in my opinion, he’s the best of them all.”

Guti said when asked about the French forward: “What I care about is that Mbappe, Vinicius, Bellingham, Carreras, Lunin do things well on the field. Outside of that, I don’t care what they do. It’s their personal life and each person does what they want with their time off. When they are on the field and they are not doing things correctly, let’s criticize them. But when they are out of it, let’s leave them alone.”

These comments came after the controversy surrounding Mbappe’s arrival in Spain at almost the same time his teammates were about to kick off the match against Espanyol, a game that could have decided La Liga. His recent trips with his reported girlfriend angered some supporters, especially as he has been dealing with an injury.

Guti would like Vitinha at Real Madrid

While he was not as famous as some of his teammates during the Galácticos era, Guti was always a respected figure in the dressing room. Coming through the club’s youth system gave him a connection to Real Madrid that others did not have.

His style of play also fit what the club likes to see in its players, as the midfielder had a flair with his left foot that few could match. That makes him a natural person to weigh in on who the best midfielder for Real Madrid might be right now.

Guti said: “In Spain, Pedri is above everybody. If it’s around the world, I think there are other players at his level like Vitinha. He’s a great player. He’s one of the most complete players in the world. Arda Guler is going to grow too. Vitinha at Real Madrid wouldn’t be bad. Great players should be there, he’s the best at his position.”

Guti’s record with Real Madrid

Guti played almost his entire career at Real Madrid. Injuries kept him from reaching his full potential, but he still managed to contribute to the club from 1995 to 2010. He played 542 matches and scored 77 goals while winning 15 titles. His final year as a player was with Besiktas before he retired in 2011.

Tchouameni said: “I am sorry for the image we projected of the club. I know the fans, the staff, my teammates, the management, everyone is deeply disappointed by the way this season has unfolded. But frustration cannot excuse everything. These incidents, even if they can happen in any dressing room, are not worthy of Real Madrid. Especially since Real Madrid is the most talked-about club in the world.”

That comes as no surprise, with Valverde and the club already having expressed their views this way. While Tchouameni could still play at Camp Nou this weekend, the dressing room will need to stay united, since even a draw would crown their rivals.

Aurelien Tchouameni’s full message

What happened this week in training is unacceptable.

I say this while thinking about the example we are expected to set for young people, whether in football or at school. No matter who is right or wrong, we should always look for the calmest solution to resolve a conflict.

Above all, I am sorry for the image we projected of the club. I know the fans, the staff, my teammates, the management, everyone is deeply disappointed by the way this season has unfolded. But frustration cannot excuse everything. These incidents, even if they can happen in any dressing room, are not worthy of Real Madrid. Especially since Real Madrid is the most talked-about club in the world.

The internet loves to invent the wildest stories for the buzz so don’t believe everything that’s being said or the false narrative.

Anyway, now is no longer the time to figure out who did what, who said what, or who was right or wrong. I acknowledge the club’s sanction and I accept it. We remain a family, with disagreements at times, but we must always put our objectives above everything else. I have apologized to the group, and I also want to extend my apologies to all Madridistas.

Now it is time to move forward, and all our focus is on El Clásico and on the season ahead, to bring the club back to the top, where it belongs.

Valverde to miss time

Tchouameni came out of the incident in the best position. Even though Valverde said there was no fight, he was the one who ended up hurt. The Uruguayan needed stitches and will be unavailable for 10 to 14 days.

Reactions around the world were strongly critical of the incident, mainly because they had also had a disagreement the day before and were unable to move past it, leaving the club under pressure.

Real Madrid ultimately chose to hand down a clear warning by fining both players to set an example of what the club will not accept. Sporting sanctions were not applied, so both players can still be available for selection.

“Alphonso Davies suffered a muscle injury in his left hamstring during Wednesday’s Champions League semifinal second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, as confirmed by an examination by the FC Bayern medical unit,” the German side announced in a statement published on its official website on Friday.

The left-back had started the match against PSG on the bench and entered in the 67th minute in place of Josip Stanisic. Shortly after coming on, he assisted Harry Kane for Bayern Munich’s equalizer, although it was not enough to prevent elimination. During his nearly half-hour on the field, Davies also picked up the injury that has now sidelined him.

“The Canada international will therefore be out of action for several weeks,” the statement added. While that does not provide an exact timetable for Davies’ return, it does offer some indication of what could happen in the near future.

Bayern Munich still have two Bundesliga matches remaining this season, although they carry little significance with the title already secured. The situation is different for the May 23 clash against Stuttgart, where Bayern will compete for the DFB-Pokal title. However, it seems difficult to imagine Davies being fully recovered in time for that match.

Canada respond to Alphonso Davies injury

News of Davies’ injury resonated not only in Germany, but naturally in Canada as well. “We’re behind you, Captain,” began the message shared by the national team Friday on its official X account. “We are in close contact with Alphonso and remain in touch with Bayern’s medical team following his recent setback.”

Regarding the next steps, Canada explained: “Our focus is on supporting his recovery and providing every available resource, including specialized soft tissue expertise, to give him the best possible pathway back to full fitness ahead of the FIFA World Cup.”

Canada will open their 2026 World Cup campaign on Friday, June 12, against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the first Group B match at BMO Field in Toronto. That gives Alphonso Davies more than a month to regain full fitness and arrive at the tournament in optimal condition.

“We have to believe, just like Argentinians always do whenever there’s an official competition, whether it’s the Copa America or the World Cup, but also understand that there are other favorites ahead of us who are arriving in better form as a group,” Leo said during an interview on Lo Del Pollo.

“It’s a World Cup, and we know it’s always complicated because of the quality of the national teams involved,” Messi added before going into detail about the opponents he considers strongest. “France are looking very good again, and they have a lot of top-level players. Spain too.”

Continuing his analysis, the 38-year-old star mentioned a South American powerhouse. “Brazil, even though they haven’t been at their best lately, are always contenders and have the players to compete in every major tournament.”

Finally, Messi pointed to “the powers” that are traditionally among the favorites because of their history and talent. “Then there are the usual ones, Germany and England,” Leo said. He added another team as well: “And Portugal, who also have a very competitive national team.” He also acknowledged that underdogs are always possible. “Then there’s always some surprise team, strange things you don’t expect beforehand. There are a lot of national teams at a high level.”

Which opponents have eliminated Argentina during the Messi era?

Lionel Messi’s cautious approach when discussing the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes from personal experience. Before becoming world champions in Qatar 2022 and winning back-to-back Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, Argentina suffered several painful defeats in major tournaments that left a mark on Leo and gave him a clear understanding of what it means to compete at the highest level.

In three of the four unsuccessful World Cup campaigns he took part in, Messi experienced Germany’s superiority firsthand. Argentina lost to them in the quarterfinals of Germany 2006 and South Africa 2010, before later falling again in the final of Brazil 2014. Four years later in Russia, it was France who eliminated La Albiceleste in the memorable 4-3 Round of 16 clash.

At the continental level, Messi also endured difficult defeats against regional rivals. Brazil beat Argentina in the 2007 Copa America final and again in the 2019 semifinals. Chile eliminated Leo twice as well, defeating Argentina in the finals of 2015 and 2016, while Uruguay knocked them out in 2011.

Messi believes in his teammates

Despite the caution he expressed, Lionel Messi also showed confidence that he and his teammates will give everything they have to achieve success at the 2026 World Cup. “The national team are doing well. Right now, several players are dealing with injuries or a lack of rhythm, but Argentina will always compete and give everything, just like this group have done ever since they came together,” the forward said in the same interview.

During an interview on Lo Del Pollo, Messi was asked whether the constant comparisons with Ronaldo were a media creation or if there was actually bad blood between them. “Those comparisons or competitions are something natural in the world of soccer. It’s normal, just like it happens with clubs or national teams, but it was never anything beyond sports,” Leo began.

“I was at Barcelona and he was at Real Madrid, playing Clasicos, and we were competing for everything both collectively and individually, so people were always comparing us,” the Argentine star added, referring to the 2009-2018 period when both players dominated La Liga.

“What both of us achieved made the rivalry even bigger,” Messi admitted. Indeed, for a decade, he and Cristiano split the most prestigious individual awards in soccer. Ronaldo won his first Ballon d’Or in 2008, while Leo claimed his first the following year, and from then until 2018, no other player won the award until Luka Modric.

“We didn’t meet often except during matches or award ceremonies, where everyone was always watching to see whether he or I would win. But we were always on good terms,” explained the Inter Miami player. “Now we’re far away and at different stages of our lives, but what happened was a beautiful sporting rivalry.”

When was the last time Messi and Ronaldo faced each other?

To find the last meeting between Messi and Ronaldo, it is necessary to go back to January 2023. At the time, the Portuguese forward had just arrived in Saudi Arabia from Manchester United, and a friendly match was organized between Paris Saint-Germain and the Riyadh Season Team, a squad made up of players from Al Nassr and Al Hilal. PSG won the game 5-4.

However, the last official match between the two stars came much earlier. In the 2020-21 UEFA Champions League group stage, Juventus defeated Barcelona 3-0 thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo brace, just months before Messi was forced to leave the Catalan club for PSG.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup could be the final opportunity

Six and a half years after that last official match between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, their careers have taken very different paths. Playing on different continents, an official meeting between Inter Miami and Al Nassr appears extremely unlikely. Because of that, international soccer may be the only remaining possibility.

Although neither player has confirmed it, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will almost certainly be the final major tournament for Messi and Ronaldo with their respective national teams. There, the possibility of Argentina and Portugal meeting is not entirely unrealistic.

The quickest path for that to happen would be for both teams to finish second in their respective groups — something unlikely given the quality of their opponents — which would set up a potential Round of 16 clash. In a more logical scenario, with Argentina and Portugal winning their groups and advancing through the knockout rounds, they could instead meet in the quarterfinals.

The goal carried enormous weight for both Ronaldo and Al-Nassr. With the Saudi Pro League season entering its decisive stage, the strike helped the club move another step closer toward lifting the title, while also adding a historic personal achievement to Ronaldo’s already unmatched résumé.

At 41 years old, the Portuguese superstar continues to perform with astonishing consistency. His latest milestone arrived in just 105 league appearances, a goalscoring rate that few forwards in world soccer history have maintained across such a sustained period.

Ronaldo’s landmark strike came during Al-Nassr’s tense 4-2 win over Al-Shabab. The victory over Al-Shabab carried major importance for the Saudi Pro League title race. Jorge Jesus and his players moved five points clear at the top of the table, placing additional pressure on rival Al-Hilal ahead of a potentially decisive Riyadh derby.

Al-Nassr started the match aggressively and quickly established control through Joao Felix, who scored twice in the opening stages. Al-Shabab responded through Yannick Carrasco and later threatened another comeback, but Ronaldo’s second-half goal steadied the situation before Felix completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot.

All Saudi clubs Ronaldo has scored against, and his favorite opponent revealed

Once the celebrations had settled, attention quickly shifted toward the incredible spread of Ronaldo’s goals. According to statistical breakdowns confirmed by Sofascore, Ronaldo has now scored against every Saudi Pro League opponent during the 2025-26 campaign.

The achievement made Ronaldo the first player in Saudi Pro League history to score against all 17 opponents in one single season. It also marked the second time in his career he managed the feat in a top-flight league campaign after previously doing so with Real Madrid during the 2011-12 La Liga season.

Among all of his favorite opponents in the Kingdom, Al-Wehda sits at the top of the list after conceding 10 goals to Ronaldo. Behind Al-Wehda comes Al-Fateh with nine goals conceded, while Al-Shabab, Damac, and Al-Okhdood each allowed seven goals against the Al-Nassr captain.

The 41-year-old veteran also built impressive records against Al-Ittihad, Al-Khaleej, Al-Riyadh, and several others during his time in Saudi Arabia. The numbers reveal how consistently he has dominated nearly every defense in the league since arriving in Riyadh in early 2023.

How Ronaldo scored his 100 goals

The breakdown behind Ronaldo’s century of Saudi Pro League goals reveals the complete nature of his finishing ability. Official Saudi Pro League graphics confirmed the exact distribution of his goals.

Out of his 100 league goals, Ronaldo scored:

• 70 with his right foot
• 18 with his left foot
• 11 headers
• 1 goal scored in unusual fashion with his back

The final category immediately caught supporters’ attention online. The unusual goal reportedly arrived after a Joao Felix effort deflected off Ronaldo’s back during a league match earlier in the season. The milestone also placed him into another exclusive category. He became the first player in soccer history to score 100 or more league goals in three different major leagues.

Those leagues are:

• Premier League with Manchester United
• La Liga with Real Madrid
• Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr

With the Saudi Pro League title race reaching its decisive stretch, the Portuguese icon produced yet another performance that reminded everyone why he remains one of the sport’s most relentless competitors. While Joao Felix grabbed headlines with a hat-trick, the superstar forward quietly achieved something no player in Saudi Pro League history had ever managed before.

The match itself was far from comfortable for Al-Nassr despite the eventual scoreline. The club stormed into an early lead thanks to Joao Felix, who scored twice within the opening 10 minutes and immediately placed Al-Shabab under enormous pressure.

Al-Shabab fought back bravely after Yannick Carrasco reduced the deficit in the first half, and the game remained tense deep into the second period. Ronaldo eventually restored breathing room in the 75th minute when he fired home a first-time finish after excellent work inside the box.

Even then, the contest refused to settle completely. Al-Shabab found another goal shortly afterward before Felix completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in stoppage time to seal a crucial victory for Al-Nassr. The result pushed Al-Nassr five points clear of Al-Hilal at the top of the table, placing the club in a commanding position as the season approaches its conclusion.

The historic record nobody had ever achieved in Saudi soccer

As impressive as the victory was, the real attention quickly shifted toward Ronaldo’s latest achievement. According to Sofascore’s data, Ronaldo became the first player in Saudi Pro League history to score against every single opponent in one league season. The goal against Al-Shabab completed the remarkable set.

Across the 2025-26 campaign, Ronaldo found the net against all 17 opposing clubs in the league, a feat that had never previously been recorded in Saudi Arabian soccer. The achievement becomes even more extraordinary considering he is now playing at 40 and 41 years old during the campaign.

Many elite forwards struggle to remain consistent at that stage of their careers, yet the Portuguese striker has continued scoring with astonishing regularity. As confirmed by the club, “He has now scored against all 17 teams he has faced in the Saudi Pro League this season, becoming the first player to score against every opponent in a single campaign.”

The list itself reads like a season-long tour of destruction. Ronaldo scored against Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Shabab, Al-Ettifaq, Al-Qadisiyah, Damac, Al-Fateh, Al-Riyadh, Al-Fayha, and every other opponent placed in front of him during the campaign.

Familiar story from Ronaldo’s career

What makes the record even more fascinating is that this is not the first time Ronaldo has accomplished something similar. Transfermarkt has highlighted that the Portuguese forward previously managed the same achievement during the 2011-12 La Liga season with Real Madrid.

Back then, CR7 finished the Spanish league season with an astonishing 46 goals. More than a decade later, he has repeated a similarly rare achievement in Saudi Arabia, once again demonstrating his extraordinary longevity.

The latest milestone also arrived alongside another major landmark. Ronaldo’s strike against Al-Shabab marked his 100th Saudi Pro League goal, reached in only 105 league appearances. Across all competitions for Al-Nassr, he has now produced 121 goals in 139 matches, numbers that would be remarkable for a player in his prime, let alone one approaching his mid-forties.

“Real Madrid C. F. announces that, following the events that led to the disciplinary proceedings initiated yesterday against our players Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni, both appeared today before the investigator assigned to the case,” begins the statement published on the club’s official website.

“During their appearance, the players expressed their complete remorse for what happened and apologized to each other. Furthermore, they extended their apologies to the club, their teammates, the coaching staff, and the fans, and both have made themselves available to Real Madrid to accept whatever sanction the club deems appropriate,” Los Blancos added.

“Under these circumstances, Real Madrid has decided to impose a financial penalty of five hundred thousand euros on each player, thereby concluding the corresponding internal procedures,” the club announced, officially bringing the matter to a close.

The sporting situation for Valverde and Tchouameni

As made clear in the statement published by Real Madrid, the club consider the matter closed following the financial penalties imposed on both players. That means neither Federico Valverde nor Aurelien Tchouameni will face any sporting consequences.

However, the situation leaves both players in very different circumstances. As a result of the altercation, Valverde suffered a blow to the head that required hospitalization, and the injury will prevent him from being part of the squad for Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona.

Tchouameni, meanwhile, is in perfect physical condition and, with the possibility of a club-imposed suspension now ruled out, has a strong chance of being included in the squad traveling to Catalunya. Whether or not he features in the starting lineup will depend on the decision of head coach Alvaro Arbeloa.

Real Madrid injuries for clash against Barcelona

Federico Valverde is not the only player who will be unavailable for Sunday’s match against Barcelona. Due to physical issues, Daniel Carvajal, Eder Militao, Rodrygo Goes, Arda Guler, and Ferland Mendy will also miss the game. In addition, Kylian Mbappe is expected to arrive less than fully fit after dealing with muscular problems over the past week that kept him out of the squad for the win over Espanyol.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12th, when they’ll be hosting Al Hilal for Matchday 32 of the Saudi Pro League at Al Awwal Park in a title-deciding game. The Portuguese legend heads to the match after scoring his 100th goal in the SPL in the 4-2 win against Al Shabab.

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

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 28 goals and provided 5 assists in 34 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 971 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form.

Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule

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

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

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

The alarm was sounded when Romero was forced off in tears during Tottenham Hotspur’s Premier League match against Sunderland on April 12, following a knee injury. Medical assessments quickly ruled out any ligament tear that would have threatened his World Cup participation, though his season with Spurs came to an early end.

According to Argentine insider Lucas Gatti of Pagina 12, Romero’s recovery from a lateral ligament sprain in his right knee is being closely tracked by Lionel Scaloni’s coaching staff. The report indicates the defender is expected to be available in time for the June friendly schedule ahead of the tournament.

Gatti’s report also revealed that a member of Argentina‘s senior team medical staff traveled to London in recent weeks to personally monitor Romero’s progress. The Córdoba-born center back is regarded as one of the cornerstones of the Albiceleste, with Argentina losing just three of the 49 matches in which he has featured.

Argentina’s pre-tournament schedule includes two friendlies before their World Cup opener against Algeria on June 16. The Albiceleste face Honduras first on June 6 at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas, followed by the clash against Iceland on June 9 at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama.

Four other Argentina players to monitor

Lionel Messi has three more MLS games remaining before the club season gives way to World Cup preparations, mirroring the timeline for Argentina’s European-based players who are also wrapping up their domestic campaigns. While Romero’s situation has brought some relief, several other key names remain under close watch.

Nicolas Gonzalez is one of those players, having suffered a muscle tear in the rectus femoris of his left leg during the Champions League semifinal first leg between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal. Lautaro Martinez is another concern, with the Inter Milan striker managing recurring muscular problems and logging just 30 minutes in the Serie A title-clinching victory last weekend.

The situation at Atletico Madrid has also added further anxiety, with Julian Alvarez hobbling off in the clash against Arsenal with ligament discomfort in his left ankle, and Giuliano Simeone also picking up an injury in the same match. Four players with distinct and important roles within the Albiceleste squad, their fitness will be among the most closely monitored storylines between now and the start of the tournament.

Mendy was injured in the opening minutes of Real Madrid’s win over Espanyol last Sunday. The injury is to the tendon of his right rectus femoris, and it is not just a simple muscle issue with a short recovery time.

It has now been confirmed that the left-back needs surgery. Monday was the date set for the procedure in France, according to Marca. The expected recovery time is around five to six months, so Real Madrid may need to look for a replacement in the next transfer windows.

Éder Militão also needed surgery

Mendy is not the only player dealing with a muscle-related surgery. The French left-back joins Éder Militão in that unfortunate group, as the Brazilian is also expected to miss about the same amount of time.

His injury happened in a match against Alavés, but it was more serious because he re-injured an area that had already been hurt before. In early April, he was close to returning before this setback forced him out for six months.

Militão underwent surgery with well-known doctor Lasse Lempainen in Finland to repair a rupture of the proximal tendon of the biceps femoris in his left leg. Along with missing the rest of Real Madrid’s matches, he will also miss the World Cup with Brazil. The player decided on surgery because he could not continue at less than full strength.

The retirement rumors

Mendy had started to regain ground later on, but he played in only nine matches all season after suffering several injuries. While the initially reported recovery time was around six months, there are rumors that he could retire.

This was reported by Cadena Cope, which posted that “the French left-back suffers a tear of the tendon of the femoral rectum with bone separation. He’ll go through the operating room and could be on leave for a year and with the option of retirement if it does not go well.”

Argentina cruised to the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table as one of the first nations to punch their ticket to the 48-team tournament, but they didn’t escape without a late setback. During the qualifying finale against Ecuador on September 9, 2025, Otamendi was sent off in the 31st minute for a last-man foul, an incident that contributed to a 1-0 defeat for the world champions.

Because Argentina has not played a competitive fixture since that match, instead opting for a string of friendlies, including a recent win over Zambia, the mandatory suspension was slated to carry over to their first official game of the 2026 World Cup. Under current FIFA regulations, the red card against Ecuador left Otamendi ineligible for the debut clash against the North African side in Kansas City.

Facing the prospect of entering the tournament without a cornerstone of their defense, the AFA has officially opened negotiations with the FIFA Bureau. The federation is pushing for a special indult that would wipe the slate clean for the veteran center-back, citing similar disciplinary precedents recently set by FIFA to ensure the tournament’s biggest stars aren’t sidelined for the opening festivities.

AFA releases statement on Otamendi and Moises Caicedo

In an official statement released on Thursday, the AFA confirmed their proactive stance: “The Argentine Football Association, through its President, Claudio Tapia, has conducted negotiations before the FIFA Bureau to ensure that Nicolás Otamendi is eligible for the first match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, following his dismissal against the Ecuadorian National Team in the final match of the CONMEBOL South American Qualifiers.“

The appeal isn’t just a solo effort for Argentina; it also extends a hand to their final qualifying opponent by including Ecuador’s Moises Caicedo in the request, who was also sent off in that same game. “Furthermore, it is worth noting the importance and the support provided by the President of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), Alejandro Domínguez, before the Bureau regarding both our player and the Ecuadorian footballer, Moisés Caicedo,” the statement concluded.

Otamendi: A pillar of the Messi era

After weathering the heartbreak of three consecutive final losses between 2014 and 2016, Otamendi has evolved into a vital vocal leader within the squad. A close confidant of Lionel Messi, the 38-year-old Benfica defender was an ironman for Lionel Scaloni during the 2022 triumph in Qatar, playing every available minute to help secure the nation’s third star.

The bond between the two veterans was on full display during a recent warm-up friendly against Zambia, where Messi handed the ball to Otamendi to convert a penalty, a symbolic gesture for a player who has often worn the captain’s armband in Messi’s absence. Otamendi has already signaled that the 2026 World Cup will serve as his last games wearing the Argentina jersey, marking the final chapter of a golden era for the Albiceleste.

While the most recent Ballon d’Or winner has already shown what he can do, proving his level last season with Paris Saint-Germain, he still seems to feel disrespected. Proof of that came in his celebration last Wednesday, when he made the famous silence gesture. But that was not his only message.

Dembélé turned to social media to show his feelings with a video of Barcelona’s Gavi, in which the midfielder responds to critics in a blunt way: “A lot of people think I don’t know how to play football. And they have no f… idea. It’s true. It’s understandable. It’s football. Everyone thinks what they want.”

Dembélé after the Ballon d’Or

There was some debate over who was the best player in the world last year. While Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe had strong arguments based on their individual performances, Dembélé won the award backed by team success.

What Dembélé has not done is relax after a fantastic year. Instead, he has kept his level high to lead the team to another Champions League final in its quest to repeat the achievement.

Dembélé has played 19 matches in Ligue 1 and contributed 10 goals. In the Coupe de France, he played two matches and scored once. He also played one match without scoring in the UEFA Super Cup, one match without scoring in the Intercontinental Cup, one match and one goal in the Trophee des Champions, and 12 matches with seven goals in the Champions League, for a total of 36 matches and 19 goals.

The final

Even though Harry Kane’s late goal for Bayern Munich added some suspense to the end of the match, Paris Saint-Germain was the better team in the semifinals. In the other semifinal, Arsenal eliminated Atletico Madrid by one goal to also reach the final against Paris Saint-Germain. The final was set for May 30 in Hungary.

As excitement builds across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, FIFA has continued promoting the tournament as the most ambitious World Cup ever staged. Yet behind the scenes, frustration over ticket pricing has steadily intensified, particularly among supporters shocked by the soaring costs attached to group-stage matches and even standard seating options.

Reports surrounding ticket costs have dominated headlines in recent weeks. Supporters discovered that seats for the United States’ opening match against Paraguay in Los Angeles were climbing beyond four figures on official and resale platforms, creating immediate backlash online and among fan organizations.

According to The Guardian, some Category 3 tickets for the match were listed at $1,120, while premium seats for the final reportedly approached $11,000 at face value. On FIFA’s resale marketplace, some listings for the final even reached astronomical prices that stunned fans across the soccer world.

The Guardian also noted that FIFA introduced dynamic pricing for the World Cup for the first time, allowing prices to fluctuate according to demand. The system, commonly used in American sports and entertainment, has become one of the tournament’s most controversial features.

Donald Trump breaks from Gianni Infantino’s position

While FIFA president Infantino had repeatedly defended the pricing structure, Trump unexpectedly offered a very different perspective during an interview with the New York Post. His comments quickly gained traction because of how closely he has been associated with FIFA during preparations for the tournament. “I did not know that number. I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn’t pay it either, to be honest with you,” Trump said after learning about ticket prices for the United States opener.

The comment places him in direct contrast with Infantino, who has repeatedly defended FIFA’s pricing model. The FIFA president has argued that ticket values reflect market demand in a highly commercialised sports environment, particularly in the United States.

“We have to look at the market — we are in the market in which entertainment is the most developed in the world. So we have to apply market rates,” Infantino explained during a recent FIFA Conference appearance.

The contrast between the two positions creates an awkward moment for FIFA. Trump has frequently appeared alongside Infantino throughout preparations for the tournament, including public appearances connected to travel initiatives and fan access programs.

FIFA defends its strategy despite backlash

Infantino has continued defending FIFA’s approach despite mounting criticism. The governing body argues that demand for tickets has reached unprecedented levels, with hundreds of millions of requests already submitted for the tournament.

The FIFA president also emphasized that resale markets contribute heavily to inflated pricing. According to him, selling tickets too cheaply would simply allow third parties to profit by reselling them at far higher amounts. “In the U.S. it is permitted to resell tickets as well,” Infantino said. “So if you were to sell tickets at the price which is too low, these tickets will be resold at a much higher price.”

Still, many supporters remain unconvinced by that explanation. Critics have pointed out that the tournament was historically viewed as an event accessible to broad communities rather than only corporate clients or wealthy travelers.

Comparisons with the 2022 tournament in Qatar have also intensified scrutiny. The most expensive ticket for the 2022 final reportedly cost around $1,600, far below the top-tier figures now being discussed for 2026.