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

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

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

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

What’s next for Portugal?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Martinez’s history with finger fractures

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

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

Martinez’s flawless record in championship finals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Southampton’s final appeal falls flat

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

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

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

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

Changes for the 2029 Nations League

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

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

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

Changes for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to watch: PSG vs. Arsenal Champions League Final

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ronaldo expands his media empire

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

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

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

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

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

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

Messi’s contribution to Inter Miami’s revival

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

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

Who sits at the top of the CONCACAF rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hansi Flick holds Rashford in high regard after stellar campaign

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

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

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

On Sunday, Fabrizio Romano broke the story that Guardiola had decided to leave the Mancunian club despite having one year remaining on his contract. With the season coming down to its final moments, the circumstances surrounding that leak have not sat well with the manager.

According to The Sun, Guardiola is furious at the timing of the leak, coming as it did just before Tuesday’s crucial trip to AFC Bournemouth. The Citizens needed a win to keep the title race alive heading into the final matchday on Sunday, and the manager showed his concerned that the poorly timed disclosure could have disrupted the team’s focus and momentum at the worst possible moment.

Beyond his frustration over the leak itself, the British outlet reports that Guardiola reached out to the City players on Monday night to personally confirm the news of his departure. He also reportedly apologized to the squad for the manner in which the information came out.

Making the situation more difficult, The Sun also reported that Guardiola had told the players as recently as Saturday that he was not planning to leave, a statement he made publicly ahead of the FA Cup final against Chelsea. The subsequent news of his departure therefore caught several players completely off guard.

Chelsea working to sue Man City

With Guardiola’s exit now appearing inevitable, speculation over his successor has moved quickly, with Enzo Maresca identified as the frontrunner to take over, with talks reportedly already in progress and Fabrizio Romano expecting the Italian to sign a three-year deal. That scenario, however, could land Manchester City in legal trouble.

According to The Telegraph, Chelsea would seek financial compensation if City formally appoint Maresca as head coach. The Blues allege that Maresca informed the ownership that he was already in discussions with City, a claim that neither club has commented on publicly, though that silence may not last long if Chelsea decide to pursue damages over what they view as a breach of contract.

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

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

How a Man City win affects the Premier League title race

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

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

How a Man City draw affects the Premier League title race

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

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

How a Man City defeat affects the Premier League title race

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brozovic remains the biggest question mark for Al Nassr

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

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

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

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

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

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

Did Neymar take Joao Pedro’s place?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cristiano Ronaldo and the competition for SPL Player of the Season

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

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

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

SPL Awards: categories and nominees

Player of the Season

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

Best Young Talent of the Season

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

Manager of the Season

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

Saudi Player of the Season

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where will Neymar play in Ancelotti’s Brazil?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brazil’s complete 2026 World Cup squad

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

Neymar and his dream of a 2026 World Cup farewell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who will replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lewandowski still far from the top foreign scorers and Messi

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

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

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

On Sunday, PSG traveled to Paris FC for the final matchday of Ligue 1, a title the club had already secured four days earlier with a 2-0 win over RC Lens. Despite the championship being wrapped up, coach Luis Enrique opted to field a strong starting lineup that included Dembele.

The concern arose in the 27th minute when Dembele signaled to the bench with discomfort in his left leg and asked to come off. He was replaced by Goncalo Ramos, and rather than taking a seat on the bench to watch the rest of the match alongside his teammates, Dembele headed straight to the locker room, a sight that deepened the worry around his condition, even though he was able to walk off under his own power.

RMC Sport reporter Fabrice Hawkins reported that the substitution was made purely as a precaution following an alert from Dembele, though the French journalist noted it would be a situation to monitor closely in the days ahead.

What did Luis Enrique say about Dembele?

Losing a Paris derby 2-1 after squandering the lead was hardly the ideal end to the Ligue 1 season for Luis Enrique, but the greater concern was the potential loss of a player he has considered the best in the world following Dembele’s 2025 Ballon d’Or victory. Stars including Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes and William Pacho had already been absent from Sunday’s game through injury, and a Dembele setback would only add to the headaches heading into the business end of the season.

When asked about his star forward in the post-match press conference, Luis Enrique sought to calm the situation: “Nothing to say about Ousmane; we will have to wait until tomorrow (Monday) to know exactly what it is, but I think it’s just fatigue. What we are saying today is only speculation, but I don’t think it’s complicated, and there are still two weeks left (before the Champions League final).”

Dembele and the decisive weeks ahead

Winning the UEFA Champions League and the World Cup in the same calendar year has become one of the rarest feats in modern soccer, with Raphael Varane’s double with Real Madrid and France in 2018 serving as the most recent high-profile example. As the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, Dembele is perfectly positioned to join that exclusive company, though the latest injury scare has tightened an already demanding timeline.

The Champions League final against Arsenal in Budapest is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, less than two weeks away, while France open their World Cup campaign against Senegal on June 16. Dembele has already been confirmed in Didier Deschamps’ squad for the tournament, but with such high-stakes matches stacked so closely together, the risk of a further setback in the lead-up to either game will be weighing heavily on both PSG and the French national team.

Regarded at the time as one of the best players in the world and having already signed a contract extension, Griezmann completed a move to Barcelona in 2019 for €120 million. However, the anticipated partnership with Messi never truly clicked, and his two seasons at the club yielded only a Copa del Rey title in 2020-21, with disappointment in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

Taking the microphone and addressing the supporters from the center of the pitch in tears, Griezmann delivered a farewell speech that left no one unmoved: “First, thank you all for staying. This is incredible. Second, I know many forgave me, and some still haven’t: I ask for your forgiveness again. I didn’t realize the affection I had here; I was very young and, well, I made a mistake. I re-evaluated things and we did everything we could to come back and enjoy being here again.”

Despite more than a decade at the club, La Liga and the Champions League remain the two major honors that eluded Griezmann at Atletico. The irony is not lost on anyone that the Colchoneros‘ last La Liga title came in the 2020-21 season, the very campaign in which Griezmann was away in Barcelona.

He reflected on that unfulfilled chapter with characteristic honesty, while making clear that the supporters’ love has meant everything to him. “I haven’t been able to bring a La Liga title or a Champions League, but this affection is worth more to me. I will carry it with me for the rest of my life. Now, yes, I’m finishing up. Fathers, mothers, uncles, aunts, thank you very much for bringing the kids here, to teach them that Atleti is the best thing in the world,” he stated.

At Barcelona, Griezmann posted 35 goals and 17 assists across 102 appearances, a figure that stands in stark contrast to his legacy at Atletico, where he made 500 appearances, scored 212 goals as the club’s all-time leading scorer, and reached the milestone of 100 assists with his contribution against Girona on Sunday. Now 35, Griezmann will move on to MLS to continue his playing career.

Griezmann’s oath after Orlando City tenure

With one La Liga game remaining against Villarreal, Griezmann’s next chapter will take him to the East Coast to join Orlando City, where he will inevitably cross paths with Messi once more in a potential Florida Derby against Inter Miami. But once his days as a player are behind him, his commitment to Atletico remains unshaken.

Speaking in the press room following his on-field farewell, Griezmann made a heartfelt promise about his future: “When I finish in Orlando, I’m going to return here. To Madrid, to the club, and to win trophies from another side (of the game). Hopefully, someone better than me comes in and gives us the Champions League.“

Sunday’s clash marked Inter Miami’s fifth match at Nu Stadium since its grand opening, with the Herons previously enduring a frustrating stretch of three draws and a loss at the new venue. After sustained attacking pressure turned Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis into the player of the match early with a string of brilliant saves, the Herons finally carved open the Portland defense through the middle of the pitch to finally break the negative streak.

In the 31st minute, Messi controlled a pass from Telasco Segovia and quickly found Luis Suarez, who immediately linked back up with the Venezuelan midfielder. Segovia then delivered a spectacular backheel pass that left Messi one-on-one with the keeper, allowing the Argentine star to slot it home and open the scoring for the hosts.

Messi wasn’t finished impacting the scoreboard, later turning playmaker to set up German Berterame for Inter Miami’s second goal. In the 42nd minute, Messi executed a perfect give-and-go with Suarez before dancing past Cole Bassett and Diego Chara inside the box. After freezing the defenders, the Argentine slipped a pass across the face of the goal for Berterame to tap home first-time, comfortably doubling the Herons’ lead against the Timbers before the break.

Those numbers bring Messi’s season totals to 13 goals and 5 assists across 15 matches. Most notably, the superstar has racked up four goals and four assists over his last four outings, solidifying his status as the frontrunner for the MLS Player of the Month award for May.

Messi directly involved in over half of Inter Miami’s MLS goals

Messi has undoubtedly been Inter Miami’s talisman since his arrival, serving as both the team’s primary finisher and the creative engine behind their build-up play. However, during the 2026 MLS campaign, his influence has reached a point where the Herons are heavily reliant on what the Argentine legend can produce on any given night.

Through 14 matches, Inter Miami has found the back of the net 33 times, with Messi directly involved in 18 of those tallies by racking up 13 goals and five assists. While nine other players have cracked the scoresheet for Miami this season, Berterame is the next closest with just five goals, highlighting the team’s extreme dependence on their superstar captain.

Inter Miami released an official statement regarding Allende’s status on Sunday ahead of their clash with the Portland Timbers: “Forward Tadeo Allende has successfully undergone an arthroscopy on his right knee to address the discomfort he had been experiencing in recent weeks.“

The forward had already missed the team’s last two MLS matches against FC Cincinnati and Toronto FC before traveling to Spain to evaluate his options. “The procedure was carried out in Barcelona by Dr. Cugat and his team at Instituto Cugat, in coordination with the Club’s medical staff,” the statement added.

After finishing as the team’s second-highest goalscorer behind Messi last season, Allende earned a permanent $5 million transfer from Celta Vigo. However, the attacker arrived in South Florida without a proper preseason under his belt, and persistent fitness issues have plagued his on-field production ever since.

Through the early stretch of the 2026 campaign, Allende has appeared in 11 matches for Inter Miami but has logged 90 minutes just four times, failing to record a single goal or assist. Compared to his breakout impact last year, his absence strips Inter Miami of a crucial weapon in their attacking rotation.

When will Tadeo Allende return?

Inter Miami officials have been cautious regarding Allende’s long-term outlook, opting not to disclose the exact nature of the structural issue inside his right knee. “In the coming days, the player will begin the corresponding recovery process. His progress will determine the timeline for his return to the pitch,” the club concluded.

While no official timetable has been established, the reality of an arthroscopic procedure leaves a wide range of possibilities for his recovery. If the surgery was a minor cleanup, Messi could have his strike partner back when the MLS season resumes in late July following the 2026 World Cup break, though Allende is already ruled out for next week’s game against the Philadelphia Union.

The worst-case scenario would be if the arthroscopy required a meniscus stitch or major cartilage repair. While that remains unlikely, such a procedure would effectively sideline him for the remainder of the year and push his return to the 2027 season. In the meantime, Messi will have to make do without an attacker whose direct runs made him one of his favorite targets last season.

Messi has been included in the starting lineup against the Timbers. The Argentine arrives in good form after scoring a brace and adding an assist in a 5-3 road win over FC Cincinnati, a performance that earned him a spot in the MLS Team of the Matchday 13 and further underlines his sharp form heading into the summer.

Through 12 MLS appearances this season, Messi has scored 11 goals and registered four assists. His only absence came against Charlotte FC back in March, and since returning he has played every available minute, accumulating 1,260 minutes across all competitions and arriving at the World Cup in peak condition.

Inter Miami looking to break their troubling home record

One of the most striking anomalies of Inter Miami’s 2026 campaign has been the stark contrast between their form on the road and at home. Away from Nu Stadium, the Herons are the top team in the league with 22 points from nine games, yet at home they rank among the worst sides in MLS, picking up just three points from four matches, level with the Philadelphia Union.

That split has Inter Miami sitting sixth in the overall MLS standings with 25 points from 13 games. Back on home soil on Sunday, the Herons will be desperate to finally secure a second win at Nu Stadium, having not claimed all three points there since the venue’s inaugural game against Austin FC on April 4.

Confirmed lineups for Inter Miami and Portland Timbers

Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, Micael, Sergio Reguilon; Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, German Berterame.
Head coach Guillermo Hoyos.

Portland Timbers’ confirmed lineup (4-3-3): James Pantemis; Brandon Bye, Finn Surman, Kamal Miller, Jimer Fory; Cole Bassett, David Pereira Da Costa, Diego Chara; Kristoffer Velde, Kevin Kelsy, Alexander Aravena.
Head coach: Phil Neville.

On Sunday, Santos hosted Coritiba in the 2026 Brasileirao, just one day before Ancelotti was due to announce the Brazil squad. Before kickoff, Neymar walked out onto the pitch carrying his daughter Helena and was visibly emotional during the national anthem, a moment that set a charged tone for the afternoon.

Coritiba took control in the first half, with Breno Lopes netting a brace and Josué adding a third to put Santos in a deep hole. Neymar was the most industrious attacking presence for the hosts, winning more fouls than any other player on the pitch with four, though he also misplaced 12 of his 40 attempted passes, before the chaos unfolded.

After heading to the touchline to receive treatment on his left calf and preparing to return to the field, Neymar was stunned to see the fourth official raise the substitution board showing his number in the 65th minute, with Robinho Junior set to come on in his place. Furious at the apparent mistake, Neymar attempted to walk back onto the pitch, was shown a yellow card, and triggered a heated argument with the officials as he tried to explain that it was Gonzalo Escobar who was supposed to come off.

Still visibly agitated on the touchline, Neymar grabbed a piece of paper and held it up to a pitchside camera in an attempt to signal the correct substitution to the fourth official. However, because Robinho had already entered the field and play had resumed, the change was deemed official, bringing Neymar’s afternoon to a premature and involuntary end. He did not speak to the media after the match.

Neymar’s last game before the Brazil squad announcement

The match against Coritiba served as Neymar’s final appearance before Ancelotti formally names his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup. With the preliminary 55-man list already submitted to FIFA, the Italian coach is set to hold a press conference on Monday, May 18, to confirm the final group, with significant anticipation around whether the former Barcelona star will make the cut.

While the picture had been unclear in the weeks prior, recent reports suggest that Neymar will in fact be included in Brazil’s World Cup roster. The injuries suffered by Rodrygo and Estêvão have opened a door, but it is also understood that several members of the squad have pushed for his inclusion, with the dressing room’s backing proving to be a meaningful factor in Ancelotti’s decision-making process.

Neymar in doubt for Santos’ next game

With the squad announcement looming, Neymar will also need to manage his club commitments ahead of potentially joining Brazil‘s World Cup camp. The blow he took to his leg during Sunday’s game has cast doubt over his availability for Santos’ upcoming Copa Sudamericana clash against San Lorenzo on Wednesday.

Coach Cuca addressed the injury concern after the match: “Because of the hit he took, it’s not muscular, I think it’s unlikely he’ll be in any condition to play on Wednesday. It’s a quick thing; in four or five days at most, he’ll be fine. The (World Cup) call-up doesn’t influence things; we have to think about ourselves.“

According to Saudi outlet Al-Wiam, Al Nassr officials are in advanced discussions over the signing of Goncalves. Currently at Sporting CP, the club where Ronaldo was raised and made his professional debut, the winger would represent the marquee addition of the upcoming summer transfer window.

Goncalves is contracted with Sporting through June 2030 and carries a release clause of 80 million euros. With his market value estimated at €28 million by Transfermarkt, Al Nassr have reportedly tabled an official offer of €30 million, approximately $35 million, in an attempt to get the deal over the line.

The 27-year-old has been a regular presence in Portugal’s recent squads under head coach Roberto Martinez, including the team that lifted the 2025 UEFA Nations League. While his role has been limited, totaling just 24 minutes across the last 18 matches, he has consistently featured among the substitutes for the side led by Ronaldo up front.

On the club level, Goncalves has already claimed seven trophies with Sporting CP, including three Liga Portugal titles. In the 2025-26 season, he has appeared in 39 games, registering 15 goals and eight assists, with two fixtures remaining including the Taca de Portugal final against Sport Clube Uniao Torreense.

How could Goncalves fit into Al Nassr’s system?

The potential signing of Goncalves comes as something of a surprise, not because of any doubt about his quality, but because Al Nassr’s attack has been functioning at an exceptionally high level this season. Under Jorge Jesus, the club has scored 132 goals across all competitions, with Ronaldo accounting for 28 of them, while Sadio Mane, Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman have all contributed significantly to reduce the team’s dependence on any single player.

The issue becomes apparent, however, when one of those key figures is unavailable. Mane in particular has proven to be a decisive variable: Al Nassr have suffered just one defeat in the 34 games he has started this season, but have lost five of the 13 matches in which he was absent through injury or international duty.

Finding a reliable replacement for Mane has been one of Jorge Jesus’ most persistent challenges, and at 34 years old with his Al Nassr contract running through June 2027, planning for the future on the left wing is becoming increasingly urgent. Goncalves, who can also operate in the No. 10 role behind the striker in a similar fashion to Joao Felix, offers a versatile and internationally proven solution to that problem in the medium to long term.

Real Madrid were hosting Real Oviedo on Thursday in a La Liga fixture, with FC Barcelona already crowned champions following their El Clasico victory over the weekend. Mbappe, who had been absent from the squad for the Barcelona match, was included in the group for the Oviedo game but was left out of the starting lineup by Arbeloa.

The coach opted for a 4-4-2 formation, with Gonzalo Garcia and Vinicius Junior leading the attack and Brahim Diaz and Franco Mastantuono operating on the wings. Mbappe came off the bench in the 69th minute to replace Gonzalo and made an immediate impact, assisting Jude Bellingham’s goal in the 80th minute to seal a 2-0 victory, but his mood in the aftermath was anything but celebratory.

Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone, Mbappé explained his position on the bench directly: “I’m doing very well. At 100%. I didn’t start because the coach told me that, for him, I am the fourth forward in the squad, behind Vinícius, Mastantuono, and Gonzalo. I accept it and I play the time that I’m given. We played well, and I gave an assist to Jude. We won, and it’s important to win at home.“

When pressed on whether he had any issue with being assigned that role, Mbappe directed the question back to the manager. “Ask the ‘mister’ (the coach). What do you want me to tell you? I was ready to be a starter, but it’s his decision and I cannot be angry with him. You have to respect it. I have to work together and work hard to be a starter,” he declared in the mixed zone.

Mbappe on missing El Clasico and the reception from fans

Mbappe’s Italian getaway during his injury recovery had already drawn criticism in recent weeks, forcing him to address the situation publicly. His last-minute withdrawal from El Clasico only deepened the frustration among supporters, who made their feelings clear when he came on against Oviedo, greeting his entrance from the bench with a cascade of whistles from the Santiago Bernabeu crowd.

Addressing the moment directly, Mbappé did not shy away from the subject: “It was a shame for me not to play in the Clásico. That’s life. We cannot change people’s opinions. It’s just how they see things, and I don’t take it personally. I’ve had moments in my career where I’ve been whistled. It’s part of the business and part of life. Sometimes they aren’t happy, but they are always here (supporting).“

Arbeloa denies Mbappé’s account

Because Mbappe’s comments came before Arbeloa’s post-match press conference, the coach was given a direct opportunity to respond, and he wasted no time doing so.

“I did not say such a phrase to him; he must not have understood correctly. I decide who plays as long as I am sitting in this chair; I don’t care if they disagree, no matter what their name is. And if not, let them wait for the next coach. I wish I had four forwards; I don’t know what to tell you because I don’t even have four forwards, nor have I said such a phrase to him,” Arbeloa said as soon as he sat down in the Bernabwu press room.

The Spanish coach also emphasized that just four days earlier, Mbappe had not even been fit enough to make the bench for El Clasico, underscoring how quickly the situation had shifted. While Arbeloa kept his focus on the team’s next fixture three days away, the episode adds yet another combustible chapter to what has been a deeply turbulent end to Real Madrid’s season.

After his contract with Mexican side Club Leon expired in December 2025, Rodriguez became one of the most coveted free agents on the market. While he spent the winter training on his own, Minnesota emerged as the winner in the sweepstakes for his signature, officially pulling off the blockbuster move in early February.

Due to the timing of his arrival, Rodriguez missed Minnesota’s first three matches before making his highly anticipated MLS debut on March 15 in a disappointing 6-0 loss to the Vancouver Whitecaps. Exactly two months later, the Loons announced that Wednesday’s clash with the Colorado Rapids served as the Colombian’s farewell performance.

In an official statement, the club confirmed the departure: “Minnesota United today announced that the club will release midfielder James Rodríguez following tonight’s Colorado Rapids game to join the Colombian National Team camp in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The club is proud to support James as he represents his country on the world’s biggest stage and wishes him success during camp and throughout the tournament.“

Rodriguez now heads to training camp under manager Nestor Lorenzo, meaning he will miss Minnesota’s upcoming fixtures against the New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake. With his current deal set to expire in June 2026, it is highly likely that the midfielder has played his final minutes in a Loons uniform.

Expected to captain Colombia this summer, Rodriguez has stated he isn’t considering retirement just yet, claiming he still has “a couple of years left” in the tank. Despite that optimism, his club future remains a massive question mark as he prepares to hit free agency for what would be the seventh time in his storied career.

A look back at James Rodriguez’s brief tenure with the Loons

Despite the massive expectations surrounding his short-term deal, Rodriguez struggled to find his footing during his stint in the Twin Cities. The Colombian featured in only eight of Minnesota’s 15 matches this season, logging six MLS appearances and two in the US Open Cup while failing to find the back of the net.

His time with the club was plagued by fitness issues, largely due to his lack of a proper preseason. The situation worsened in March when a call-up to the national team resulted in a severe case of dehydration that required hospitalization, a setback that prevented him from ever reaching peak match fitness with Minnesota.

In a high-production reveal video, head coach Didier Deschamps named the 26 players tasked with conquering North America this summer. Les Bleus find themselves in Group I, widely considered one of the tournament’s “Groups of Death,” where they will battle Sadio Mane’s Senegal, Iraq, and Erling Haaland’s Norway.

France will lean heavily on 2024-25 Golden Boot winner Kylian Mbappe and 2025 Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele to spearhead the hunt for a third star. Along with Lucas Hernandez, this duo will be the only players on the roster to feature in three consecutive World Cups, a run that includes the 2018 title in Russia and the 2022 final in Qatar.

The omission of Eduardo Camavinga stands as the most glaring storyline of the selection process. “I imagine his disappointment. He is coming off a difficult season where he played less and dealt with injuries. I have choices to make, a squad structure (to maintain),” commented Didier Deschamps on TF1.

In a move that caught many by surprise, RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser earned a spot on the final 26-man roster. The 21-year-old’s inclusion marks his first-ever call-up by Deschamps, as he beat out the likes of PSG’s Lucas Chevalier and West Ham’s Alphonse Areola, both of whom struggled for consistent minutes this season.

France’s full 2026 World Cup roster

• Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Robin Risser (RC Lens), Brice Samba (Stade Rennes).
• Defenders: Lucas Digne (Aston Vila), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), Lucas Hernandez (PSG), Theo Hernandez (Al Hilal), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), Jules Kounde (FC Barcelona), Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace), Wiliam Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich).
• Midfielders : N’Golo Kante (Fenerbahce), Manu Kone (AS Rome), Adrien Rabiot (AC Milan), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaire-Emery (PSG).
• Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche (AS Monaco), Bradley Barcola (PSG), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Ousmane Dembele (PSG), Desire Doue (PSG), Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan).

More than half of the 2022 squad will miss the 2026 trip

France entered the 2022 World Cup aiming to become the first repeat champions since Brazil in 1962, but those dreams were dashed by Lionel Messi’s Argentina in an epic final. Since that heartbreak, Deschamps has overseen a massive rebuilding process for what is expected to be his final World Cup on the French touchline.

The turnover is staggering; of the 26 players who traveled to Qatar four years ago, 14 will not be joining the team in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. Most notably, the entire 2022 goalkeeping core of Hugo Lloris, Steve Mandanda, and Alphonse Areola has been completely phased out in favor of new blood.

The following 14 players from the 2022 squad were excluded due to international retirement or tactical decisions:

• Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Hugo Lloris, and Steve Mandanda.
• Defenders: Axel Disasi, Benjamin Pavard, and Raphael Varane.
• Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, Matteo Guendouzi, Jordan Veretout.
• Forwards: Kingsley Coman, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, and Randal Kolo Muani.

Mbappe will begin today’s match on the bench due to a tactical decision by manager Alvaro Arbeloa. While the Frenchman has officially recovered from the last-minute injury that kept him out of El Clasico against Barcelona, Arbeloa has opted to ease the superstar back into action rather than handed him a starting role.

After battling back from a torn muscle fiber, Mbappe reportedly felt minor discomfort in the final training session before the duel with Barcelona, according to Marca. He has since resumed full training with the squad at Valdebebas and is said to be eager to see the field as the season reaches its final days.

Per reports out of Spain, Mbappe is determined to play a part in Real Madrid’s final three fixtures against Oviedo, Sevilla, and Athletic Club. With the 2026 World Cup just weeks away, the forward is focused on regaining his match fitness and sharpness before joining the French national team in June.

The move to include him in the squad comes as a surprise following reports from The Athletic suggesting Mbappe wanted to skip the remaining home games to avoid the hostile atmosphere and jeers from the Bernabeu crowd. However, it appears his priority has shifted toward being physically ready for France’s World Cup defense.

Real Madrid deal with two more significant absences

Arbeloa is still fielding a competitive side, with regulars like Thibaut Courtois, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Vinicius Junior all named to the starting lineup. However, with Real Madrid mathematically out of the La Liga title race, the manager is taking some notable risks with his team selection.

The most shocking exclusion alongside Mbappe is Jude Bellingham, who will also start the match on the bench. Furthermore, Federico Valverde, a pillar of the squad this season and frequent captain, is missing from the squad list entirely following the training ground clash with Tchouameni.

On Thursday, May 14, the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) released an official statement announcing the four-year extension for Ancelotti. While his initial agreement was only set to carry the national team through the 2026 tournament, he is now fully integrated into the federation’s long-term vision for the program.

In a video released by the CBF, Ancelotti reflected on his first year in South America and the significance of the role: “I arrived in Brazil one year ago. From the first minute, I understood what football means to this country. For a year, we have been working to bring the Brazilian National Team back to the top of the world. But the CBF and I want more. More victories, more time, more work.“

Now officially leading the project that will take Brazil into the World Cup’s centennial celebration, Ancelotti expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from the fans. “We are very happy to announce that we will continue together for four more years. We are going together to the 2030 World Cup. I want to thank the CBF for their trust. Thank you, Brazil, for the warm reception and for all the affection,” he added.

In less than a year in charge, Ancelotti has overseen ten Brazil matches, including the final stages of the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers and six friendly fixtures, compiling a record of five wins, two draws and three defeats. Beyond the 2026 World Cup, his remit now includes the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup.

How old will Ancelotti be at the 2030 World Cup?

More than 30 years have passed since Ancelotti first stepped into the dugout with Italian side Reggiana in 1995, a journey that has made him one of the most decorated managers in the history of the game. The Brazil role holds a unique distinction in that history, representing his first experience managing a national team, and the extension means he will now lead that project for the better part of a decade.

Born on June 10, 1959, Ancelotti will turn 71 by the time his new contract concludes. The 2030 World Cup will feature inauguration matches in South America before shifting to Spain, Portugal and Morocco, and the Italian has made clear his intention to add to the Pentacampeões’ legacy before his tenure is done.

Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad announcement imminent

The extension announcement comes at a critical moment, with Ancelotti set to reveal his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup in just days. The official unveiling is scheduled to take place at the Museu do Amanhã in Rio de Janeiro on May 18.

A preliminary list of 55 players has already been submitted to FIFA, with Neymar’s inclusion among the most closely watched names on the longlist. While the former Barcelona and PSG star’s potential participation has captured significant public attention, Ancelotti has been unambiguous in stating that fitness will be the deciding factor for every player on the list, Neymar included.

Visiting Cincinnati for a regular-season MLS match, Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute by pressing high, winning the ball from a poor Matt Miazga pass and finishing clinically. After the hosts fought back to lead 2-1, Messi restored parity with a composed finish set up by a key cross from Rodrigo De Paul.

Evander put Cincinnati back in front at 3-2 in the 64th minute, but Messi quickly responded, this time as a creator, threading an assist to Mateo Silvetti to level the score. Then, in the 89th minute, after a defensive miscommunication in Cincinnati’s backline left German Berterame with a rebound, Messi capped off the comeback by sliding home after a Silvetti cross to complete what many in attendance believed was a hat-trick.

A hat-trick denied by MLS

With the comeback sealed, all eyes turned to Messi, who had contributed three goals and an assist to guide Inter Miami to victory, a result that lifted the Herons to second place in the Eastern Conference with 25 points from 13 games. But MLS moved to clarify the official record.

On its official website, the league attributed the 89th-minute goal to an own goal by Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano. The ball had deflected off the post and appeared destined to stay out, but Celentano made slight contact with it on the way through. Because the ball was not crossing the line without his touch, he was credited as having turned it into his own net, stripping Messi of what would have been a historic moment.

Messi keeps producing, but his hat-trick tally stands

The performance moved Messi to 12 goals and four assists in 14 appearances during the 2026 MLS season, a run of form that bodes well for Argentina’s title defense at the upcoming World Cup. His all-time career totals now stand at 909 goals and 411 assists across 1,153 games, though his official hat-trick count remains frozen at 60 following MLS’s ruling.

Messi currently sits second among active players in career hat-tricks, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo, who leads with 66. Wednesday’s performance would have trimmed that gap to five, but with the goal officially credited to Celentano, the chase will have to wait for another night.

The two players first formed a bond as teammates with the Argentina national team, a friendship that has endured to this day. When De Paul parted ways with Atletico Madrid last summer, Inter Miami moved quickly to secure one of the most expensive signings in MLS history, but it appears the board may eventually be bracing for a double departure down the line.

As reported by ESPN Argentina‘s Tomas Davila, De Paul has made a personal decision that he will leave Inter Miami once Lionel Messi retires from professional soccer. While that timeline is not in his hands, it is a development the club’s front office will need to keep in mind as it plans for the future.

Davila, who is also a well-connected insider at Racing Club de Avellaneda, reports that the motivation behind De Paul’s eventual exit is a long-awaited return to his boyhood club. An academy product of Racing, De Paul left in 2016 and has spent his career since in Europe, across spells at Valencia, Udinese and Atletico Madrid, before his arrival in MLS, with a homecoming always on his mind.

Currently 31 years old, De Paul is set to line up alongside Messi at the 2026 World Cup as Argentina defend their title, in what could be his final major tournament in the Albiceleste jersey. His contract with Inter Miami runs through December 2029, by which point he will be 35, but it is increasingly clear that Fort Lauderdale will not be his final destination in professional soccer.

When could De Paul leave?

Whether on the Argentina national team or at Inter Miami, Messi and De Paul share a connection that extends well beyond the pitch, and the report suggests the midfielder intends to follow his captain’s lead when it comes to the timing of his own exit.

Messi is currently balancing his first half of the 2026 MLS season with preparations for the upcoming World Cup, though the physical demands of professional soccer at the highest level will inevitably catch up with him in the years ahead. His current deal with Inter Miami runs through December 2028, when he will turn 41.

If Messi chooses to retire at the end of that contract, De Paul could walk away alongside him, cutting his own stay at Inter Miami short by at least a year despite being the club’s third-highest-paid player. Should Messi decide to call it a career even earlier, De Paul’s timeline would shorten accordingly, but either way, his time in Fort Lauderdale appears to have an expiration date firmly attached.

The Club World Cup held in the United States served as a testing ground for several matchday innovations, including these “NBA-style” walkouts. Under that format, every player was introduced individually, walking through the tunnel as their name was announced to the entire stadium, rather than appearing as a collective unit.

Traditionally, players from both teams emerge from the tunnel together, led by the officiating crew and accompanied by youth mascots. This classic presentation was temporarily shelved by FIFA during the Club World Cup trials as the organization looked for ways to modernize the game’s presentation ahead of its return to North America.

However, according to Ben Jacobs, FIFA has decided to move away from the individual walkouts for the upcoming tournament. While the concept generated significant crowd engagement during the Club World Cup, officials have reportedly deemed the approach impractical for a World Cup that features a massive 104-game slate across the entire competition.

The individual introductions certainly made an impact during the Club World Cup opener between Inter Miami and Al Ahly, particularly when Lionel Messi was announced to a deafening ovation. While that euphoria at Hard Rock Stadium suggested the format could be a hit for national teams, the idea has ultimately been shelved before reaching the world stage.

FIFA exploring new entrance protocols

Even though the NBA-style format is out, FIFA is still looking to break new ground regarding team presentations. Ben Jacobs also reports that the governing body is currently trialing an alternative walkout method, signaling a clear desire to move away from soccer’s traditional entry protocols.

The goal for FIFA is to highlight every player without the time-consuming individual introductions seen at the Club World Cup. For years, the V-formation entrance alongside children carrying national flags has been the standard protocol for the modern era, and fans are now waiting to see if the 2026 edition will finally break that mold.

On May 8, ahead of the first leg between Middlesbrough and Southampton at the Riverside Stadium, Boro officials leveled charges against their rivals after allegedly being victims of an espionage attempt. The English Football League (EFL) promptly released a statement addressing the incident, though they stopped short of detailing potential disciplinary actions against the Saints.

“Southampton Football Club has today been charged with a breach of EFL Regulations, and the matter will be referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission. This follows a request from the EFL for the Club’s observations after a complaint from Middlesbrough relating to alleged unauthorised filming on private property ahead of the two Clubs meeting in Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Semi-Final First Leg,” the EFL statement confirmed.

Speculation regarding the consequences for Southampton has ranged from heavy fines and points deductions to the ultimate sanction of playoff expulsion. Despite the cloud of controversy, the semifinal series proceeded on the pitch, with Shea Charles netting a late winner to send Southampton through to the final against Hull City while the legal battle continues behind the scenes.

Middlesbrough awaits a potential EFL lifeline

Even though they were officially eliminated on the aggregate scoreline (2-1), Middlesbrough remain hopeful that the situation will be overturned, granting them a sensational second chance at Premier League promotion. As reported by The Telegraph, manager Kim Hellberg has given his Boro players two days off to recover from the Southampton clash, but the squad will return to training Friday to stay match-fit in case the EFL panel determines Southampton’s conduct warrants a forfeit.

According to reports, the next 24 hours will be critical for the resolution of the case, as the independent panel looks to expedite the hearing. With the final at Wembley scheduled for May 22, the EFL is working against a ticking clock to deliver a verdict that avoids a massive logistical and competitive setback for the teams involved.

Photos of alleged Southampton spy emerge

As this new “spygate” continues to draw comparisons to Marcelo Bielsa’s infamous 2019 incident with Leeds United, new evidence has surfaced online. One of the most significant developments involves a leaked photograph of a Southampton staff member who is allegedly at the center of the espionage case.

Images circulating on social media reportedly show Southampton performance-analysis intern William Salt loitering near a tree while recording a Middlesbrough training session. These images are being reviewed by the EFL panel to determine if the staff member was indeed filming tactical drills prior to the semifinals, a finding that would weigh heavily on the final decision.

The fixture was originally scheduled for March 21 but had to be moved after the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal was played at Wembley the following day. With the trophy secured, City and Palace now finally meet in one of the final fixtures of the season for both clubs.

City head into the game having not lost a Premier League match since their defeat to Manchester United on January 17, posting nine wins and four draws since that result. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have been prioritizing their run in the UEFA Conference League, where they are at the final stage, and have struggled domestically, managing just one win in their last five league games while sitting 15th in the standings.

How a Man City win affects the Premier League title race

A victory over Crystal Palace would cut Arsenal’s lead to just two points, with City moving to 77 points from 36 games while the Gunners sit on 79. The gap would be tight, but the situation would still favor Arsenal.

In that scenario, City would need the Gunners to drop points in at least one of their two remaining games, as Guardiola’s side would not control their own destiny. Goal difference could also come into play as a tiebreaker, but one thing is clear: Manchester City cannot win the 2025-26 Premier League on their own. That power rests entirely with Arsenal.

How a Man City draw affects the Premier League title race

A draw against Crystal Palace would be a significant blow to City’s already slim title chances. It would leave them on 75 points from 36 games, four behind Arsenal, and needing a near-perfect combination of results to have any hope of overtaking them.

In that scenario, a single Arsenal win from their final two matches would be enough to clinch the title for the first time since the “Invincibles” season of 2003-04. The Gunners close out the league campaign against Burnley on May 18 and Crystal Palace on May 24, before the Champions League final against PSG, and they are heavy favorites in both fixtures.

How a Man City loss affects the Premier League title race

If Crystal Palace pull off an upset at the Etihad, City’s title hopes would be all but mathematically extinguished. A defeat would leave them on 74 points from 36 games, five behind Arsenal, and dependent on a remarkable sequence of events to have any chance of catching up.

To still have a theoretical shot at the title without relying purely on goal difference, City would need to win both of their remaining matches against Bournemouth and Aston Villa, while Arsenal would need to lose both of theirs. For goal difference to become the deciding factor, City would still need two wins while hoping Arsenal lose one game and draw the other, a scenario that, given the Gunners’ run-in and current form, borders on the unrealistic.

Al Nassr hosted a pivotal game against Al Hilal that ended in a 1-1 draw, denying Ronaldo the chance to lift the SPL trophy on the night. Mohamed Simakan had put the hosts in front in the 37th minute, but a costly goalkeeping error from Bento in stoppage time allowed Al Hilal to equalize, and a separate moment during the match raised alarm bells for Al Nassr’s immediate future.

Around the 68th minute, Brozovic began showing signs of discomfort in the groin area, noticeably unable to sprint at full speed while tracking back against Al Hilal’s attackers. Shortly afterward, with the opposition still in possession, the Croatian turned toward the coaching staff on the sideline and gestured to be replaced.

Brozovic was withdrawn in the 72nd minute, with Jorge Jesus sending on Nader Al-Sharari in his place. Up to that point, the former Inter Milan midfielder had completed 26 passes and won the ball back five times, once again demonstrating his value as a cornerstone of the team’s midfield structure.

What did Jorge Jesus say about Brozovic?

No official injury update has been issued on Brozovic’s condition, but the apparent groin complaint that cut his night short leaves little room for optimism. Jesus addressed the impact of his substitution in the post-match press conference without specifying an expected recovery timeline.

“After Brozovic’s injury, I brought on Nader, but after those substitutions the team became more defensive-minded,” Jesus said. “As a result, we were unable to attack and score the second goal. We tried to protect our lead, but everyone saw the way the equalizer was conceded,” he added.

A key injury at the worst possible time

Brozović has been one of Al Nassr‘s most consistent performers throughout his time alongside Ronaldo at the club. In the 2025-26 season, the Croatian has appeared in 40 games, contributing one goal and five assists, but his numbers barely scratch the surface of his true value. It is the structure and authority he provides in the midfield that makes him indispensable, both in build-up play and in the team’s defensive shape.

While Al Hilal’s late equalizer has kept the title race alive, Al Nassr have a crucial appointment on Saturday, May 16, when they face Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, giving Ronaldo the chance to lift his first continental club trophy in the Middle East.

Then, on the 21st, Al Nassr host Damac FC in what could be the title-deciding game of the Saudi Pro League season, depending on how Al Hilal fare in their remaining fixtures. With midfielders Angelo and Abdullah Al-Khaibari already sidelined by hamstring injuries ahead of the Al Hilal derby, the prospect of Brozovic, who is also expected to feature for Croatia at the 2026 World Cup, missing the run-in could represent a serious blow to Ronaldo’s hopes of completing the double.

Lingering fitness concerns have forced Ancelotti to omit Neymar from recent international windows, meaning the legendary attacker hasn’t suited up for Brazil national team since suffering a devastating ACL injury in October 2023. However, a vocal contingent of fans and teammates has aggressively lobbied for his return, putting the Italian manager in a delicate position where sentimental value and match fitness are at odds.

In an interview with Reuters on Tuesday, Ancelotti acknowledged the forward’s recovery while emphasizing that a final decision is still pending: “When you have to choose, you have to consider many things. Neymar is an important player for this country because of the talent he has always shown. But he has had problems ​and is working hard to recover. He has improved a lot recently and is playing regularly. It is, obviously, not ⁠such an easy decision for me. We have to weigh up the pros and cons carefully.“

While Ancelotti took the initial step of naming Neymar to the preliminary roster, he remains cautiously optimistic about the playmaker’s 2026 form. “He has improved his fitness a lot in recent matches. He has played some very good matches lately. His fitness has improved. He can maintain a high intensity in a match. But there are matches and matches,” he stated.

Since recovering from knee surgery in late 2025, Neymar has logged 13 appearances for Santos in 2026, tallying six goals and three assists. Most notably, between April 28 and May 10, Neymar featured in three out of four Santos games, scoring twice and logging 262 minutes, which are encouraging numbers for the demands of a World Cup schedule.

Ancelotti refuses to bow to outside influence

Raphinha, Casemiro, Lamine Yamal, and even Lionel Messi have recently joined a growing list of global stars eager to see Neymar suit up for the 2026 World Cup, backed by unwavering support from the Brazilian faithful. While Carlo Ancelotti has been repeatedly pressed for answers, his stance remains unchanged: if Neymar is fit, he will play.

The Italian tactician doubled down on his independence, insisting that the final roster will be his and his alone: “I haven’t been pressured by anyone to ​call up Neymar. I have complete autonomy. The decision will be 100% professional. I will only take into account how he is performing as a footballer. Nothing else.“

While Ancelotti respects the immense affection for Neymar within the locker room, he is confident that his final decision, whatever it may be, won’t fracture the team’s chemistry. “I think it’s normal for the players to express their opinion. I’m grateful to everyone who has given me advice; I thank you all. But ultimately, the right person to make this decision, the one best placed to do so, is me,” he stated.

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.

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.

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.“

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.