Coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that both <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/santiago-gimenez/">Santiago Giménez</a> and Luka Modrić will return to training in early August, skipping <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/milan/">AC Milan</a>’s friendlies in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Perth to rest and recover following international duty.



Nearly six months have passed since Santiago Giménez joined AC Milan from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/feyenoord/">Feyenoord</a>, but this weekend, the Mexican striker will finally have the chance to say a proper goodbye to the fans of the Dutch club where he made his name in Europe.



After his impressive goal-scoring run, which played a major role in helping Feyenoord win three domestic trophies, the club has decided to honor Giménez during their preseason friendly against Wolfsburg. The tribute will take place at De Kuip Stadium, where fans will have the chance to give him one final round of applause.



<h3>Feyenoord’s official statement</h3>



“Santiago Giménez will make a brief return to De Kuip this weekend. The Mexican forward has been invited to the Opening Match against VfL Wolfsburg on Saturday and will officially bid farewell to the team during halftime.”



The club is looking forward to a heartfelt reunion between Giménez and the fans, who embraced him almost immediately after his arrival in the summer of 2022. Three domestic trophies and a flood of goals later, the striker transferred to AC Milan this past winter in a multimillion-euro deal.



Giménez will step onto the pitch at halftime to, among other things, take a lap of honor around the stadium. Prior to the match between Feyenoord and VfL Wolfsburg, the pitch will also host a gathering of many former players as part of the club’s traditional Opening Match Day group photo and reunion,” the club wrote in an official statement released Wednesday.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">See you on Saturday, Santi 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/Santgimenez_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Santgimenez_</a> will officially say goodbye during half-time of Feyenoord vs. VfL Wolfsburg:— Feyenoord Rotterdam (@Feyenoord) <a href="https://twitter.com/Feyenoord/status/1950535814863024265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a></blockquote></div>

Pulisic faces teammate woes: Why Santiago Giménez won’t join AC Milan’s preseason tour

Pulisic faces teammate woes: Why Santiago Giménez won’t join AC Milan’s preseason tour - World Soccer Talk

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As Milan rebuilds for a new era under Massimiliano Allegri, the club’s transfer activity has stirred excitement across the soccer world. But amidst the tactical discussions and preseason planning, one moment of emotional resonance has stolen the spotlight:&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/christian-pulisic/">Christian Pulisic</a>’s heartfelt reaction to the signing of Luka Modric, a player he has long admired.



The Croatian legend’s arrival at San Siro has created a buzz not only because of his pedigree, but because of the influence he could have on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/milan/">Milan</a>’s next generation — including Pulisic himself.&nbsp;The American star, who is entering his third season with the Rossoneri, didn’t hold back his enthusiasm when speaking about his new teammate. But his reaction went beyond professionalism; it was personal.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/luka-modric/">Modric</a>, now 39, moved to Italy this summer after ending his historic 13-year spell at Real Madrid, where he won&nbsp;six Champions League titles&nbsp;and became a symbol of excellence in modern midfield play. For&nbsp;Christian Pulisic, the news was more than just another headline—it fulfilled a childhood dream.



“He will bring experience, an indispensable skill during matches,”&nbsp;Pulisic told&nbsp;La Gazzetta dello Sport.&nbsp;“For years he has been a player of exceptional quality: I watched him play as a fan, then I also faced him. Taking the ball away from him is difficult and what’s more, he is a leader who will give Milan continuity of performance and concreteness. He’ll be valuable on and off the field.”



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Luka Modrić&apos;s First Day | #WelcomeModrić" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sM7SNRXJmio?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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That final line — “valuable on and off the field” — was Pulisic’s six-word verdict, and it perfectly summed up the importance of Modric’s presence in the dressing room, particularly during a time when the Rossoneri are aiming to rediscover their identity after a challenging previous campaign.



<h2>From fan to teammate</h2>



The connection between the two midfielders goes beyond professional admiration. In the same interview,&nbsp;Pulisic revealed that Modric has long been an idol within his family, tracing back to his own Croatian heritage.



“When I was at Chelsea and we played against Real Madrid, at the end of the game I spoke to Kovacic,”&nbsp;he recalled.&nbsp;“You know, I have Croatian roots on my grandfather’s side and all my cousins, to give you an idea, named their dog ‘Luka’ for Luka Modric! He is an idol in my family. I told Kovacic that I really wanted his shirt, also for my family. A legendary player.”



The moment became even more surreal when a reporter hinted that Pulisic could soon be teammates with the Croatian maestro.&nbsp;“I saw something about that… Crazy,”&nbsp;he replied, smiling at the idea that is now a reality.

Dream come true: Christian Pulisic gives six-word verdict on how Milan’s signing of his idol Luka Modric can help him and the team

Dream come true: Christian Pulisic gives six-word verdict on how Milan's signing of his idol Luka Modric can help him and the team - World Soccer Talk

As Milan undergoes significant restructuring following a disappointing season, the future of one of its brightest stars remains under close scrutiny. Amid swirling speculation, fans and media alike have been asking one persistent question:&nbsp;Will <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/christian-pulisic/">Christian Pulisic</a> commit his long-term future to the Rossoneri?&nbsp;With the club’s leadership in transition and several key players departing,&nbsp;Pulisic’s contract situation has become one of the most talked-about issues of the summer.



Now,&nbsp;Fabrizio Romano has delivered a vital six-word update that could change everything.&nbsp;But before that revelation, let’s examine how Pulisic became such a crucial figure for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/milan/">Milan</a>—and why his renewal has been anything but straightforward.



The 26-year-old had the best season of his club career in 2024-25, scoring&nbsp;17 goals&nbsp;and adding&nbsp;12 assists&nbsp;in&nbsp;50 appearances across all competitions.&nbsp;Despite the Rossoneri’s collective failure—an eighth-place finish in Serie A, an early Champions League exit, and no European football for next season—Pulisic emerged as the undisputed star of the campaign.



His performances reignited belief not just in his potential, but in his ability to be the face of a project. He became a rare constant in a Milan team that otherwise lacked rhythm and clarity. This sparked conversations around a contract extension, widely believed to be a mere formality.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Christian Pulisic Gol &amp; Assist Collection" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/quZIl4c8KHE?start=2&amp;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Mid-season reports claimed that&nbsp;a new deal with improved terms was ready—one that would extend his stay until 2029. Yet, no announcement came, and whispers of hesitation began to surface.



<h2>Why the delay?</h2>



According to&nbsp;Italian journalist Matteo Moretto, it wasn’t Milan holding things up—it was the player. Pulisic reportedly wanted clarity on the club’s future plans, particularly after such a poor season. Who would be the new manager? What reinforcements would be brought in? And how serious was the club about returning to elite competition?



Rather than rush into a decision,&nbsp;he chose to pause talks, waiting for the appointment of a new coach and the arrival of a structured sporting project.



<h2>Enter Igli Tare and Massimiliano Allegri</h2>



The club responded by bringing in&nbsp;Igli Tare as sporting director&nbsp;and&nbsp;Massimiliano Allegri as head coach. Tare, speaking to the Italian media, quickly addressed the burning question about Pulisic’s future.



“Pulisic will be a key player for the next Milan season. I’ll have the chance to discuss the renewal topic with [CEO] Giorgio [Furlani] at the right time. Christian has a central role in this group,”&nbsp;Tare said.



Those words signaled the club’s intent:&nbsp;The USMNT ace is not for sale and is seen as a pillar of the new Red and Blacks’ project.&nbsp;Despite the lack of an official announcement, both parties now appear aligned in vision.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250730_WST_581651_pulisic-milan-2-1200x675_5e547562.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="pulisic milan" class="wp-image-581064" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26165109/pulisic-milan-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Fabrizio Romano breaks the silence</h2>



And then came the update that fans had been waiting for. According to renowned journalist&nbsp;Fabrizio Romano, speaking to&nbsp;Fantacalcio, the situation may be closer to resolution than previously believed. “No, no, also because he has always been very, very convinced that the best is yet to come at Milan for him, absolutely,”&nbsp;Romano said.



That six-word verdict — “the best is yet to come” — changes everything.&nbsp;It suggests that far from seeking a move away,&nbsp;Pulisic believes his peak years will happen in red and black, and that he is fully committed to Milan’s future.

Will Christian Pulisic renew at Milan? Fabrizio Romano settles debate with vital six-word update on USMNT star’s future

Will Christian Pulisic renew at Milan? Fabrizio Romano settles debate with vital six-word update on USMNT star's future - World Soccer Talk

This Wednesday night, Inter Miami begin their participation in the 2025 Leagues Cup, the tournament that brings together the top clubs from Major League Soccer and Liga MX. The Herons will debut against Atlas of Mexico, and all eyes are on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/rodrigo-de-paul/">Rodrigo De Paul</a>.



The Argentine midfielder joined <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> just a few days ago on loan from Atletico Madrid, in a deal running through the end of the 2025 season, with an option to make the move permanent until the end of 2029.



De Paul’s arrival is yet another high-profile signing for Inter Miami in the past two years, making him the third World Cup winner on the roster alongside Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. That’s why his contribution on the field is expected to be massive, adding another level of quality to the midfield.



Despite all this, his spot in the starting lineup was cast into doubt due to off-field complications. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/coach-mascherano-addresses-rodrigo-de-pauls-availability-after-missing-inter-miami-training/">Coach Javier Mascherano addressed De Paul’s availability</a>, explaining Tuesday that bureaucratic issues tied to his work visa had prevented the midfielder from training with his teammates.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250730_WST_581645_messi-de-paul-1-1200x675_3b66dddf.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="messi de paul" class="wp-image-581073" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/26171332/messi-de-paul-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul will be teammates at club level for the first time.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Will De Paul play vs Atlas in the Leagues Cup?</h2>



After a few hours of uncertainty, on Wednesday Inter Miami provided an update on the Argentine star’s situation. “Rodrigo De Paul is now available for team selection, as El Motorcito has been cleared to start his engines and grace the pitch at Chase Stadium for the first time upon receiving his P-1 Visa and ITC,” the club announced in a statement on their official website.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/leagues-cup-tv-schedule/"></div>

 

 


With the administrative issues resolved, everything was in place for De Paul to make his official debut for the Herons this Wednesday against Atlas in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/leagues-cup/">Leagues Cup</a>. However, final confirmation from head coach Javier Mascherano regarding the starting XI was still pending—something that came just minutes before kickoff.



<h2>Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup with De Paul</h2>



Rodrigo De Paul joined Inter Miami with the aim of bringing more quality and tactical balance to the midfield, potentially forming an ideal pairing with Sergio Busquets. That setup would also allow wide midfielders Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia more freedom to attack along the flanks.



This Wednesday, head coach Javier Mascherano will have his first opportunity to test that idea on the field. Inter Miami’s confirmed starting lineup to face Atlas is: Rocco Rios Novo; Marcelo Weigandt, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Jordi Alba; Tadeo Allende, Sergio Busquets, Rodrigo De Paul, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.

Is Rodrigo De Paul playing today? Inter Miami host Atlas in 2025 Leagues Cup first round game

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Inter Miami star Lionel Messi receives big honor from MLS days after controversial suspension

Is Rodrigo De Paul playing today? Inter Miami host Atlas in 2025 Leagues Cup first round game - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> is gearing up for the 2025–26 season, which will once again see him competing in Saudi Arabia. As part of their preseason tour, Al Nassr played their second international friendly and defeated French side Toulouse 2-1 at the modest Untersberg-Arena in Austria. Ronaldo started the match under coach Jorge Jesus, netted the 1-1 equalizer, and was subbed off at halftime. Mohammed Maran later scored the winner.



This match followed <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al Nassr</a>’s 5-2 victory over Austrian club SK St. Johann last Saturday—a game in which Ronaldo did not feature. However, the clash against Toulouse marked the team’s first real test of the summer, going up against European opposition from France’s Ligue 1.



Early in the match, Ronaldo came close to scoring alongside fellow newcomer <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/joao-felix/">João Félix</a>. After a strong play by Sadio Mané down the wing, a low cross was sent into the box, but neither Portuguese forward could finish.



Toulouse capitalized on a defensive mistake shortly after. Ayman Yahya misplayed a ball that left Yann Gboho one-on-one with Al Nassr goalkeeper Bento. While the initial shot lacked power, it managed to slip past the Brazilian keeper for a 1-0 lead in the 25th minute.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">¡GOL DE CRISTIANO RONALDO! 🤩 CR7 apareció dentro del área y empató el partido. 💥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmistosoEnFOX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmistosoEnFOX</a> <a href="https://t.co/vTTUH4MsEm">pic.twitter.com/vTTUH4MsEm</a>— FOX Deportes (@FOXDeportes) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXDeportes/status/1950589265814917267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



Despite showing some defensive issues, Al Nassr responded quickly—and it was Ronaldo who delivered. In the 33rd minute, Wesley burst down the right flank and delivered a pinpoint cross to the center of the box. Ronaldo found space and slotted home a clean finish to level the score.



Shortly after, Ronaldo nearly added another, dazzling his defender with quick footwork before sending a shot just wide of the post. It was an encouraging performance from the Portuguese legend, though the squad clearly still has areas to improve. More reinforcements are expected in the coming weeks.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldo-loses-key-teammate-as-al-nassr-coach-jesus-confirms-champions-league-winners-exit/"></div>


In the second half, Al Nassr showed glimpses of the fluid, attacking style coach Jorge Jesus is aiming to implement. One of those promising sequences ended with a decisive header from Maran, who sealed the 2-1 victory late in the match.



The Riyadh-based side will continue fine-tuning ahead of a season full of expectations, with Ronaldo once again leading the charge.

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo scores equalizer goal in Al-Nassr vs. Toulouse friendly match

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo scores equalizer goal in Al-Nassr vs. Toulouse friendly match - World Soccer Talk

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