“Without doubt he’s England‘s greatest No. 9. And I’m including Shearer and Rooney in that. I think he’s gone above them in that. You see the goals he’s scored, it’s ridiculous. If he wins a Ballon d’Or, then he’s in the conversation. If he wins the World Cup, he’s even more in the conversation. But it’s just great that he’s one of ours. He’s been the quietly unassuming hero that’s just crept along. And now all of a sudden we realise how good he is,” Joe Cole said, via GOAL.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Kane has emerged as Bayern Munich’s most important player, scoring 54 goals and providing 7 assists in 46 matches. If he maintains this level, he could win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, ending the 25-year drought since the last winner, Michael Owen. With this, the Englishman would leave a legacy surpassing that of Rooney and Shearer, having made a historic impact on every team he has played for.

Harry Kane has surpassed Wayne Rooney in terms of Premier League goals, scoring 213 in 316 matches. While he did not overtake Alan Shearer, who remains the all-time leader with 260 goals in 441 games, the 32-year-old striker has already overcome both at international level. After scoring 78 goals, he ranks as England’s all-time top scorer, overtaking Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton. Moreover, he ranks as the greatest player in Tottenham Hotspur’s history.

Harry Kane eyes legacy-defining run at 2026 World Cup with England

After delivering the best statistical season of his career, Harry Kane has firmly emerged as a Ballon d’Or contender due to his all-around impact. Alongside this, the Englishman has the perfect opportunity to cement his legacy as a historic figure, leaving no doubt. As the national team’s leader at the 2026 World Cup, he could deliver a dominant performance—potentially leading his country to the title and/or finishing as the tournament’s top scorer.

Harry Kane needs just two goals to surpass Gary Lineker as England’s all-time top scorer in the tournament, meaning he could overtake him in this edition. If he wins the Golden Boot, he would become the only English player to claim the award twice, having previously done so in 2018. Moreover, he could make history by leading his country to the title, something they have not achieved in 60 years.

In case he achieves this, Harry Kane would establish unequivocally as the greatest player in England’s history, surpassing Wayne Rooney, Bobby Charlton, Alan Shearer, among others. Alongside this, he would significantly boost his chances of winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or, marking a historic milestone in both his career and his country’s history.

Michael Carrick has managed to impress with his impact at Manchester United, as he has elevated the performances of several players, achieving nine wins and two draws and putting the team in contention for UEFA Champions League qualification spots; however, the club’s front office is reportedly seeking a manager with proven elite-level experience—something the Englishman does not yet offer, having only previously managed Middlesbrough.

According to Jason Burt via The Telegraph, Manchester United have identified Andoni Iraola as the leading candidate to take charge of the team. After his strong impact at AFC Bournemouth, the Spanish coach is highly regarded by the club’s front office due to his attacking style of play and ability to develop young talent. Additionally, he could arrive as a free agent, making him a high-impact option due to his wide experience.

While Andoni Iraola has solid experience in the Premier League, he has not managed teams competing to win the league or consistently challenge in the UEFA Champions League. As a result, the Spaniard could face, for the first time, the intense pressure that comes with managing a club like Manchester United, and with just one title to his name—the Cypriot Super Cup with AEK Larnaca—his potential arrival raises more doubts than certainties among the Red Devils.

Manchester United may regret passing on Michael Carrick

Despite not having extensive managerial experience, Michael Carrick has already shown he is capable of transforming the reality of Manchester United. In the middle of a sporting crisis, he has given the team a clear style of play—something they lacked under Rúben Amorim or Erik ten Hag—while also elevating Benjamin Šeško and Kobbie Mainoo into the team’s standout performers when they previously seemed on the fringes.

As a Red Devils’ legend, Carrick commands strong backing in the dressing room—an advantage that candidates like Andoni Iraola or Oliver Glasner would not immediately enjoy. Although recent bets on inexperienced managers have not been successful, Michael has already demonstrated signs of being a long-term difference-maker, reportedly attracting interest from several Premier League clubs willing to trust his profile to lead their sporting projects.

In the event that he secures a spot in the 2026–27 UEFA Champions League, Manchester United fans could pressure the front office to back the continuity of Michael Carrick. Not only have the supporters shown their backing, but players such as Luke Shaw, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo have also voiced their support, which could prove decisive in the final decision.

“I think the mistake is when a coach doesn’t want you and you still go to that team. You’re not part of his group or the players he trusts, so he’s not going to play you because you’re not his choice. That’s the mistake… He’s at a club where the coach doesn’t want him, didn’t bring him in, so he doesn’t play—just a few minutes. It’s not serious, disrespecting a player of his caliber,” Willington Ortiz said in an exclusive interview with Bolavip US.

After confirming his arrival in February 2026 to Minnesota United, James Rodríguez has only managed to play six matches for the MLS side, remaining without any offensive contributions. Despite his undeniable talent, head coach Cameron Knowles has kept him as a regular substitute, even after he impressed in his first MLS start against Los Angeles FC. As a result, the 34-year-old midfielder is at risk of arriving at the 2026 FIFA World Cup without competitive rhythm for Colombia.

Willington Ortiz’s criticism is not directly aimed at James but rather at his questionable career decisions. At his last six clubs, he has not been a direct request from his coaches, which has led to his relegation to secondary roles. Since he is neither a box-to-box midfielder nor a pace-driven winger, his profile is more difficult to fit into many tactical systems, making it harder for him to secure a consistent role if the manager does not consider him essential.

James Rodríguez no longer Colombia’s cornerstone for 2026 World Cup

Over the past 12 years, James Rodríguez has been the cornerstone of Colombia, emerging as a standout player at the 2014 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América. However, he is no longer in his prime, and is no longer the undisputed star of his team. Given his continued and solid performances, head coach Nestor Lorenzo plans to keep him in the starting lineup for the 2026 edition, though he will no longer be the team’s central figure.

Luis Díaz has established as one of the best players in the world. Shining with Bayern Munich, he is set to be the central figure for Colombia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With this structure, James would shift into a role focused on enhancing the 29-year-old star’s performance, aiming to elevate his output both in goalscoring and creativity. In light of this, the 34-year-old is expected to take on more of a leadership role, while still competing for a place in the starting lineup.

According to Andrea Ramazzotti via La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are open to negotiating Leão’s departure starting at $59 million. With a contract running until 2028 and a net salary of €5.5 million, they could view his exit as a strong opportunity to reinforce their attack. While they have not traditionally been open to accepting players as part of deals, Manchester United’s approach may have shifted that stance.

Amid a generational rebuild at the Red Devils, Rafael Leão emerges as an ideal solution for the left wing, as Matheus Cunha is more convincing in a central attacking or striker role. In an effort to reduce the overall cost of the deal, the English side is open to including Joshua Zirkzee, Marcus Rashford, or Manuel Ugarte as part of the operation, reports La Gazzetta dello Sport. Additionally, they would have no issue matching or even exceeding his €5.5 million net salary.

Unlike the Rossoneri, Manchester United can offer Leão an ideal scenario to shine at his best. With a clear tactical emphasis on wingers, the Portuguese could rediscover his top form through his pace, dribbling, and change of rhythm, making him a key difference-maker for the team. Additionally, the Red Devils could also offer him UEFA Champions League competition, as they are close to securing qualification, making the move even more attractive.

Joshua Zirkzee emerges as top Leao replacement for AC Milan

After failing to deliver offensively, the Rossoneri are reportedly planning a major overhaul in attack. Not only could Rafael Leão leave, but also Christopher Nkunku, Santiago Giménez, and Niclas Füllkrug. For this reason, the potential arrival of Joshua Zirkzee would be an ideal complement to Massimiliano Allegri’s frontline, as it would not block the signing of another striker, but rather strengthen the attack in a balanced way.

Joshua Zirkzee is not going through his best moment at Manchester United, often featuring as a substitute without making a major impact. Despite this, the Dutchman showed his best version in Serie A, where he impressed with Bologna. As a mobile forward, he tends to perform better as a second striker, playing off a more fixed No. 9—something that fits well with Massimiliano Allegri’s system.

With Zirkzee in attack, AC Milan would gain significant scoring potential along with strong offensive quality, allowing him to combine effectively with Adrien Rabiot and a potential new signing up front. Additionally, at just 24 years old, he represents a reliable long-term option for Allegri. However, the Rossoneri may first need to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League, which remains a challenging objective.

“The end of my career is getting closer. let’s enjoy every game. I keep playing not only for this generation, but also for the previous one and the one coming next. I enjoy it day by day, game by game, year by year, even as I get closer to the end of my career. That’s a fact… My career has been brilliant and I want to keep it that way. I still enjoy it, I keep scoring goals… but above all, it’s about winning. And we really want to win the league,” Ronaldo said, via Canal GOATBR.

Despite the warning about his professional retirement, Cristiano Ronaldo remains under contract with Al Nassr until 2027, so we could still have him for some more time shining in the Saudi Pro League. In addition, the Portuguese has just reached 970 goals, remaining only 30 away from the long-awaited 1,000-goal mark, which could cement him as a historic milestone and keep him highly motivated.

Jorge Jesus has been a transformative figure for Cristiano and Al Nassr. Following his arrival, the team has developed an attacking identity, thriving with a high press. Not only do they remain leaders of the Saudi Pro League, but they will also play in the AFC Champions League 2 final. Because of this, the Portuguese veteran could be set for his best year since joining the club, potentially winning two titles to silence critics who labeled his spell at the club a “failure.”

Cristiano Ronaldo faces his final major challenge: 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo’s emergence has powerfully transformed the history of the Portugal national team. With his arrival, they have managed to win their first three major titles: the 2016 UEFA Euro and the 2019 and 2025 UEFA Nations League, establishing themselves as one of the strongest teams in the world. At 41 years old, the striker is preparing for his final opportunity: Winning the World Cup and making history with his national team.

Throughout his career, Cristiano has not particularly excelled in this tournament. After playing 22 matches, he has only managed to score eight goals, not ranking among the top scorers. Heading into what is likely his final World Cup appearance, the Portuguese could look to impose his scoring rhythm and lead his national team to the title. With this, he would crown his professional career at the highest level—something Lionel Messi already achieved with Argentina.

In the event of winning the 2026 World Cup, the Saudi Pro League, and the AFC Champions League 2, Cristiano Ronaldo could be tempted into professional retirement. After achieving everything with his national team and Al Nassr, he could step away with a trophy-filled résumé and in one of the best seasons of his career. However, this could prevent him from reaching the 1,000-goal mark.

According to Ferran Correas via Diario Sport, Lionel Messi recommended the signing of Cristian Romero in 2021 as a reliable reinforcement for the defensive line. However, Barcelona opted to sign Eric García instead on a free transfer. Following that, the Argentine defender joined Tottenham Hotspur for €54 million. While the Blaugrana missed the chance to sign him back then, they have now reportedly added him to their list of targets for the summer of 2026.

Alessandro Bastoni remains the top priority to strengthen the defense. However, Inter Milan are not willing to let him leave for less than €70 million, complicating any potential move. As a result, Barcelona have decided to add Cristian Romero to their shortlist, especially with Tottenham Hotspur close to relegation, reveals Diario Sport. However, the Blaugranas may seek a transfer move around €50-60M or even less if they are relegated.

While Romero is not a left-footed defender like Bastoni, Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco highly value his profile. At 28 years old, the Argentine brings leadership, quality on the ball, and a strong mentality in big matches, having been closely monitored throughout the season. For this reason, they see him as a player with a profile similar to Iñigo Martínez, capable of organizing the defensive line with his experience and decisiveness.

Cristian Romero was key in Lionel Messi’s Argentina World Cup team

Argentina managed to surprise everyone with their dominant performances at the 2022 World Cup, shining offensively through Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María. However, head coach Lionel Scaloni made a bold call-in defense by placing his trust in Cristian Romero, who went to became one of the standout players of the tournament, delivering consistently strong and decisive performances coupled with Nicolas Otamendi.

With his competitive spirit, physicality, and excellent vision, Cristian Romero became an undisputed starter, playing a key role in winning the trophy. Upon arriving in the Premier League, the Argentine established as one of the most well-rounded defenders, holding his own against players like Virgil van Dijk and being considered one of the best in the league. For this reason, his potential move to Barcelona would be a huge boost to the team’s balance.

In the event that Tottenham Hotspur are relegated to the EFL Championship, the Blaugrana would be in pole position to secure his signing, offering him a guaranteed starting role and a highly competitive project. However, they would still have to compete with clubs such as Atlético Madrid and others from the Premier League, who have pursued his signing in recent seasons. With this in mind, he is expected to be at the center of a major transfer move.

According to Tuttosport, Alisson Becker has reached a personal agreement with Juventus to become their marquee signing. After being offered a three-year contract worth €4.5 million per season, the Brazilian is reportedly pushing to leave Liverpool at the end of the campaign. However, they are not willing to let him go on a free transfer, asking for a fee between €15–20M. In light of this, Virgil van Dijk has already warned that it would be a painful loss in every sense.

“There is always going to be a day where you – including myself – will go…We have been through everything together, positive things and some negative things unfortunately as well, so it would definitely be a big blow and a miss… He’s very important for me as one of the leaders in the team and I think he is very important on the pitch because I think he is one of the best – in my opinion the best – goalkeeper in the world,” van Dijk said, via ESPN.

Even though he is already 33 years old, Alisson has remained the undisputed starter for head coach Arne Slot. Not only is he crucial with his impressive saves, but his excellent distribution is key to the offense. Despite his significant impact on the team, the Reds do not seem open to offering him a contract extension beyond 2027, given that he is a veteran. As a result, the Brazilian star is looking to secure a long-term contract by leaving the team.

Liverpool bet on Giorgi Mamardashvili as replacement for Alisson

Anticipating Alisson’s potential departure, Liverpool decided to sign Giorgi Mamardashvili in 2024, when he was shining at Valencia CF, paying €30 million. However, he only joined the squad in the 2025–26 season, serving as the Brazilian’s backup. Following several injuries to the 33-year-old goalkeeper, the Georgian has gained valuable minutes, making 18 appearances and showing solid quality to potentially take over as the starter under Arne Slot.

Giorgi Mamardashvili would become the Reds’ starting goalkeeper if the Brazilian completes a move to Juventus. As his backup, head coach Arne Slot already has Freddie Woodman, who has also proven to be a fairly reliable option. However, neither has established as a true difference-maker—something Alisson Becker has consistently shown, including leading performances in the UEFA Champions League.

Alisson’s departure could create a leadership problem at Liverpool

Arne Slot might be gearing up for another tense season at Liverpool, with Alisson’s potential departure adding to the exits of Salah and Robertson. With this, they would lose three influential leaders who not only serve as captains but also play vital roles on the field. Consequently, the Reds will experience a significant leadership shift in the locker room, potentially causing some upheaval and placing increased pressure on Dominik Szoboszlai to assume a more prominent role.

According to Fabrice Hawkins via RMC Sport, Achraf Hakimi has been diagnosed with a hamstring tear, ruling him out of the second leg of the Champions League semifinals against Bayern Munich. Despite this setback, he could return in time if the French side qualifies for the final. With that in mind, the Moroccan is also not expected to risk his participation in the 2026 World Cup, which comes as a major relief for his national team.

In his place, head coach Luis Enrique is expected to rely on Warren Zaïre-Emery, as Fabián Ruiz has returned and will start in midfield again, according to Fabrice Hawkins. Without the Moroccan, PSG lose one of their most structural players, given his importance both defensively and in building attacking plays. However, the presence of the young French midfielder could prove key in ball progression, strengthening the midfield and allowing João Neves more freedom.

Alongside the Moroccan’s absence, Paris Saint-Germain will also be without Lucas Chevalier after he picked up an injury in the latest training session, reveals Fabrice Hawkins. As the backup goalkeeper, his absence does not pose a major issue for head coach Luis Enrique, who is expected to trust on Renato Marin as backup in his place while calling up a youth player to fill the third spot.

Hakimi’s absence could prove beneficial for Bayern Munich’s Luis Diaz

Achraf Hakimi has established as one of PSG’s best players. Although the Moroccan didn’t contribute much offensively, he did become a key player in containing Bayern Munich’s Luis Diaz by constantly pressuring him and matching his explosive speed. Without him in the second leg, the German side may have far more opportunities to mount a comeback, as the Colombian have shines with his dribbling skills and speed.

Unlike the Moroccan, Warren Zaïre-Emery does not stand out as strongly on the defensive end, nor does he possess the same pace. As a result, Luis Díaz could have more opportunities to shine, as he already did in the first leg. To compensate defensively, João Neves may play a key role by supporting the French midfielder, creating a 2v1 dynamic to limit dangerous situations.

After scoring in the first leg of the 2025–26 Champions League semifinals, Harry Kane found the net in six consecutive matches in the competition. In doing so, the striker surpassed the record previously held by Steven Gerrard, who scored in five straight games with Liverpool during the 2007–08 season. With 13 goals, the Englishman stands as the second top scorer, pushing for the award as the competition’s best player.

Alongside his strong performances in the Champions League, Kane has already scored 54 goals and provided 7 assists in 46 matches, making him the leading candidate to win the European Golden Boot. Given his outstanding goalscoring output and overall impact, the Englishman could emerge as the top favorite for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, marking what could be the best season of his professional career.

Bayern Munich have transformed Harry Kane’s career, elevating his impact to historic levels. While he had already enjoyed remarkable success at Tottenham Hotspur, he has now won two Bundesliga titles and a German Super Cup—his first major trophies at the professional level. In addition, the Englishman has matched Cristiano Ronaldo’s feat, recording 12 or more goal contributions in three consecutive Champions League seasons.

Harry Kane may need a Champions League title to clinch a Ballon d’Or

Despite being 32 years old, Harry Kane remains the most in-form striker in the world, especially as Kylian Mbappé raises serious doubts regarding his collective impact at Real Madrid. While his current level could position him as the leading favorite for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, the Englishman does not have an easy path. To win the award, he would likely need to lead Bayern Munich to a Champions League title.

Following the 5–4 defeat against PSG, the German side now faces the difficult task of overturning the aggregate score. If they fail to complete the comeback, Kane could lose any real chance of winning the Ballon d’Or, shifting toward Ousmane Dembélé, Vitinha, or João Neves from PSG. However, their chances would also depend heavily on their performances at the World Cup, which is expected to be the decisive factor. As a result, Harry faces a major challenge.

“Kvaratskhelia is the best player in the world and he’s only going to get better. I don’t know if he will stay on the left side because he just knows what to do in every situation. He carries the team in certain moments so I like his intelligence. He’s the extra man in midfield and also goes to make a difference up front. He’s unbelievable,” Seedorf said, via Amazon Prime.

PSG head coach Luis Enrique has clearly elevated Kvaratskhelia’s level. Throughout the current season, he has scored 18 goals and provided 9 assists in 43 matches, marking his best campaign statistically. However, the Georgian’s impact goes far beyond the numbers, as he acts as the orchestrator of the attack, rotating positions with Dembélé and Désiré Doué while bringing out the best in his teammates.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has put in an impressive performance in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, emerging as a strong contender for the tournament’s best player. He has recorded 15 goal contributions in the 14 games he has played, matching Harry Kane’s tally and surpassing Ousmane Dembélé. Recognizing his importance, head coach Luis Enrique considers him irreplaceable on the team, as he is a well-rounded player capable of breaking down any defense.

Kvaratskhelia may not have an easy path for the 2026 Ballon d’Or

After his outstanding performances with Paris Saint-Germain, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia could easily emerge as one of the leading candidates to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. However, the Georgian may not have an easy path to the award, as his national team will not be at the World Cup, potentially allowing players like Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and even Luis Díaz to move ahead of him.

Even if Kvaratskhelia leads PSG to a second consecutive UEFA Champions League title, he could lose significant ground in the Ballon d’Or race due to his absence from the World Cup. In that context, players like Dembélé or Doué could strengthen their cases if they shine with France. Likewise, the MVP or top scorer of the tournament could become a decisive factor in determining the winner, putting the Georgian at a disadvantage.

hether he wins the 2026 Ballon d’Or or not, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has already earned his place among the best players in the world, being recognized by several players and coaches. Not only does his goalscoring impact stand out, but his presence also elevates those around him, making him a unique difference-maker for PSG and for Luis Enrique, who has established him as a cornerstone of the club’s sporting project.

“The FIFA Council also unanimously approved a consultation process with all relevant stakeholders for a regulatory obligation that senior club teams are obliged to always have at least one homegrown player from the U-20 or U-21 category on the field of play, and for the proposal to be submitted to the FIFA Council in the next year (2027),” revealed FIFA on their website.

Far from being a finalized decision, this measure is still being studied by FIFA and IFAB, meaning clubs such as Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Atlético Madrid will have time to adjust their sporting plans. With this new rule, big-money signings of promising players could decrease, as teams would need to rely on them internally, potentially forcing youth investment to boost more in local talent.

While this measure represents a major opportunity for U-21 talents, FIFA and IFAB have yet to define key aspects of the rule. As such, it remains unclear whether players would need to spend two or three years in the club’s youth system, or if simply being signed and registered with the academy would be enough. This distinction will ultimately determine whether clubs genuinely invest in developing talent or merely manipulate signings to comply with the regulation.

Premier League could be hit hard by new FIFA rule

The Premier League has established as one of the most dominant leagues in Europe, with clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool leading the way in the Champions League in recent years. However, they are not particularly known for prioritizing young talent, as most teams invest heavily in transfers. For this reason, FIFA’s proposed rule could force a shift in planning, especially since no team consistently keeps a U-21 player on the pitch for an entire match.

According to The Athletic, Newcastle United and Manchester City are the two Premier League teams that have given the most minutes to U-21 players, with 3,290 and 2,850 minutes respectively. Only Manchester United come close, with 2,262 minutes for their U-21 players. Beyond these sides, no other team reaches the 2,000-minute mark, while Leeds United and Burnley are the only clubs that have not given any playing time to their young talents.

Barcelona’s U-21 commitment sets them apart in Europe

Unlike many other European teams, Barcelona have established as one of the continent’s top sides while maintaining a strong commitment to U-21 talent already performing as starters. Head coach Hansi Flick has kept Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal as undisputed starters at just 19 and 18 years old, respectively. In addition, the squad includes Marc Bernal, Xavi Espart, and Roony Bardghji within the rotation.

As one of the youngest teams in Europe, the Blaugrana have remained highly competitive, closing in on a LaLiga title and reaching the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. For this reason, FIFA’s proposed rule would not affect them at all, as they are already aligned with its intent, with their young players thriving as key starters and being recognized among the best talents in Europe despite being U-21.

Bayern Munich started the match in top form, dominating possession against the French side’s pressure and creating several scoring chances. In fact, an individual play from Luis Díaz resulted in a penalty after a foul by Willian Pacho. With his vast experience, Harry Kane converted the spot kick, giving his team the lead early in the game. However, their joy was short-lived, as they conceded two quick goals.

Far from being shaken by Bayern’s early strike, PSG quickly identified their opponent’s main weakness: The space behind the defensive line. From there, Désiré Doué delivered an excellent through ball to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who skillfully dribbled past Josip Stanišić to create space. With a superb finish, the Georgian found the equalizer, beating Manuel Neuer.

Building on their strong momentum, the French side managed to score another goal just two minutes later. After an excellent corner from Ousmane Dembélé, João Neves headed the ball, firing a powerful effort past Neuer to give PSG the lead. Although Michael Olise scored a fine goal to level the match for Bayern Munich, Dembélé restored his team’s advantage in the first half with a well-taken penalty.

Kvaratskhelia, Dembele braces overshadow Luis Diaz impressive goal

Shortly after the start of the second half, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia extended PSG’s lead. Following a through ball from Vitinha, Achraf Hakimi received possession, beat Luis Díaz, and delivered an excellent cross. Although two teammates failed to connect, the Georgian winger arrived from the left flank to finish and beat Manuel Neuer with a low and strong strike.

Capitalizing on Bayern Munich’s defensive lapse, PSG scored their fifth goal just two minutes after the previous one. Following an excellent team move led by Désiré Doué, who dribbled past Jonathan Tah, he played a pass to Ousmane Dembélé on the left flank. Showcasing his quality, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner received the ball, beat his marker again, and created space before firing a powerful low shot past Manuel Neuer once more.

Despite these two early goals, the German side maintained their attacking approach, managing to pull one back with a great header by Dayot Upamecano. Four minutes later, Luis Díaz scored one of the best goals of the season. After a long pass from Harry Kane, the Colombian controlled the ball first-time, dribbling past Marquinhos twice and firing a powerful shot into the top corner past Matev Safonov. However, they remained one goal short of tying the match.

According to Le Journal Du Real, Real Madrid‘s locker room have chosen Vinicius Jr. as their leader, relegating Kylian Mbappé to a secondary role. With Álvaro Arbeloa’s arrival, the Brazilian forward successfully rallied the entire team around him, generating a positive momentum of results without the Frenchman. Meanwhile, Partidazo COPE reports that Los Blancos do not perceive the 27-year-old striker as the protective figure and leader they had anticipated.

Despite the numerous issues he has had with the fans and even with Xabi Alonso, Vinícius Jr. has managed to remain a key figure in the dressing room, as he consistently looks out for the group’s overall well-being, protecting his teammates. In addition, the Brazilian has delivered a strong all-around impact, scoring 19 goals and providing 14 assists, making his objective clear: To contribute to the team while also creating opportunities for his teammates.

Coupled with this, Real Madrid’s performances at the end of the season reportedly caused significant frustration for Mbappé, who privately criticized his teammates. However, Jude Bellingham has emerged as a strong critic of the Frenchman, also questioning the striker’s performances, increasing tension in the dressing room, according to Le Journal du Real. As a result, the 27-year-old could be losing influence within the group, in contrast to Vinícius Jr.’s standing.

Kylian Mbappé’s problems may have begun with Xabi Alonso’s dismissal

Following Xabi Alonso’s arrival, Kylian Mbappé emerged as the team’s cornerstone, with the system built to maximize his performance. As a result, the Frenchman established himself as the team’s leader, backed by the coach, while Vinícius Jr. took on a secondary role. However, everything changed after Xabi’s departure, as Álvaro Arbeloa reshaped the team’s structure, leading the 27-year-old star to no longer be the focal point of the side.

Under Arbeloa, Vinícius Jr. has taken on the role of team leader, gaining significant influence in on-field decision-making. In addition, the Frenchman reportedly believes that Los Blancos dismissed Xabi Alonso to benefit certain players, as the team had a more collective identity under him, according to Le Journal du Real.

Alongside the reported leadership issues, Kylian is facing significant criticism from Real Madrid fans. After his recent injury, some believe he is holding back to be fully fit for the 2026 World Cup with France, raising further doubts about his commitment. Despite this, the 27-year-old striker remains the team’s top scorer, making him indispensable to the club’s sporting project.

Serge Gnabry will not be available for Bayern Munich, as he has suffered a torn adductor in his right thigh that will sideline him for the rest of the season. In addition, the German will miss the 2026 World Cup, as his recovery could extend up to three months, according to Sky Sports. Without his presence, head coach Vincent Kompany loses a key player responsible for connecting and organizing the entire attack, making it one of the most significant absences possible.

In his absence, the German side may trust Jamal Musiala, who has been gaining prominence after his long absence. While he remains a world-class talent, he may not offer the same organizational skills, but he could be key to redirecting counterattacks and contributing on the scoring side. Nonetheless, Luis Diaz and Michael Olise will need to shine, as they may not have the same game opportunities without Gnabry in the Champions League semifinals.

Despite the significant absence of Serge Gnabry, Harry Kane could be a key player in organizing the attack vs PSG. Although the Englishman is primarily a center forward, he often serves as a central creative hub by dropping deep to receive the ball and initiate play. Because of this, he can be crucial in elevating Luis Díaz, Jamal Musiala, and Michael Olise by delivering key passes and creating space for them to shine, thus taking on a more influential creative role.

Konrad Laimer may play a key role in Bayern Munich’s offense

Throughout the 2025–26 season, head coach Vincent Kompany has relied on Konrad Laimer at left back in the absence of Alphonso Davies. With the Austrian, the German side has managed to develop a fairly dominant style of play, as he is not only key in defense but also sets up Luis Diaz on the left wing in attack. As one of Bayern Munich’s most well-rounded players, the 28-year-old star could play a key role in Gnabry’s absence.

Far from being a full-back who dominates the entire flank, Konrad Laimer tends to move into the interior of the attack, becoming a key support for Luis Díaz. In addition, he has contributed creatively, opening passing lanes for Harry Kane or Michael Olise—something he could replicate against PSG, given his strong vision. However, he would start from left-back, helping to free Jamal Musiala in attacking phases while also providing balance to the team.

Harry Kane arrives in top form, avoiding injuries and scoring droughts. For this reason, head coach Vincent Kompany will start him, aiming for him to once again elevate Michael Olise and Luis Díaz with his vision and link-up play. Additionally, he comes off scoring in both legs against the Spanish side, extending a streak of six consecutive matches finding the net.

Alongside the English striker, Bayern Munich will rely on Jamal Musiala, especially with Serge Gnabry ruled out for the rest of the season due to a serious injury. Completing the attack, they will line up with Luis Díaz and Michael Olise, aiming to break down the solid defense of the French side, which has been dominant throughout the season. Likewise, the presence of Manuel Neuer and Dayot Upamecano will be crucial.

PSG arrive at the match with a fully fit squad, avoiding injuries and dips in form in recent games. With this in mind, head coach Luis Enrique will maintain his starting lineup, relying on the brilliance of Ousmane Dembélé alongside the explosive dribbling of Désiré Doué. In addition, Willian Pacho and Marquinhos have formed one of the best defensive pairings in the world, capable of containing elite attacking units.

PSG confirmed lineup vs Bayern Munich

With Fabian Ruiz back in the lineup, PSG arrive with most of their roster available, missing only Quentin Ndjantou, who isn’t a regular starter anyway. While the Spaniard is key, head coach Luis Enrique will not start him, as he lacks competitive rhythm, giving the nod to Warren Zaire-Emery instead. Moreover, Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia will start.

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

Bayern Munich confirmed lineup vs PSG

Unlike PSG, Bayern Munich are coming into the match with several players missing from their roster, as Lennart Karl, Tom Bischof, Serge Gnabry, and Raphael Guerreiro are out with injuries. In addition, head coach Vincent Kompany will not be on the bench due to a yellow card suspension. Nevertheless, they have managed to dominate thanks to Harry Kane, Luis Diaz, and Michael Olise.

Considering this, the German side will lineup as follows: Manuel Neuer; Josip Stanišić, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Alphonso Davies; Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlović; Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, Luis Diaz; Harry Kane.

According to Carlos Monfort, via Diario Sport, Barcelona’s sporting commission had a meeting with Raúl Martínez and Fernando Galán, physiotherapists who collaborate with the Spanish Soccer Federation (RFEF). In that meeting, they created a very cautious recovery plan, aiming for him to be able to play with Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Despite this, the Blaugrana maintain a very firm stance.

Due to the high risk of relapse in hamstring injuries, Barcelona have fully decided to respect Lamine Yamal’s recovery timelines. With this, they seek to avoid accelerating his recovery, aiming to prevent physical problems in the medium and long term. Nonetheless, the Blaugranas understand that he will definitely be in the national team final list, but he could be absent in the first game against Cape Verde of the 2026 World Cup, as per Diario Sport.

Lamine Yamal could not only miss the first match of the anticipated tournament. According to Barcelona’s plans, the 18-year-old winger could be available only by the match against Uruguay, which is the final group stage game of the 2026 World Cup, reports Carlos Monfort. With this move, he aims to be in full form for the knockout stage as he is expected to be included in the final squad list, but under specific medical precautions.

Lamine Yamal may be struggling with the heavy workload at Barcelona

Having already suffered four injuries, Lamine Yamal could take a very cautious approach to his recovery, prioritizing sustainable performance over time. In addition, the legend Ruud Gullit has already warned the 18-year-old star about his physical condition, as he has accumulated a heavy workload at such a young age. Despite this, head coach Luis de la Fuente remains hopeful of having one of his key players available for the 2026 World Cup.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, head coach Hansi Flick has made Lamine Yamal an undisputed starter, accumulating 3,702 minutes. Although Roony Bardghji or Ferran Torres could serve as key rotation options, the Blaugrana have chosen to keep the 18-year-old as irreplaceable, leading to numerous physical issues. With this in mind, they could look to better manage his playing time, aiming to optimize his physical condition over the long term.

According to Moisés Llorens and Sam Marsden via ESPN, Barcelona have already initiated contact with Atlético Madrid over the signing of Julián Álvarez. Despite this, the Colchoneros are not very open to letting the Argentine leave, complicating the situation. Nevertheless, president Joan Laporta continues to view him as his main target, pushing to pursue his signing in the summer of 2026, when the club is expected to have the financial fair play room to make a move.

In light of this information, Julián Álvarez decided to break his silence, focusing on Atlético Madrid: “I try not to give too much importance to what they say, because the truth is that every week new things come out, all kinds of new information…I try not to waste energy on that and to focus on what we’re doing here at Atléti,” he said, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.

Despite his statements, the Argentine continues to be linked with the Blaugrana due to a reported family-related move. According to Gustavo Yarroch via SportsCenter on ESPN, Julián Álvarez’s brothers are already looking for a house in Barcelona, suggesting they could help push for a transfer in the summer of 2026. With this in mind, Hansi Flick’s side remain hopeful of securing the striker’s arrival as a marquee signing for up to €100 million.

Julián Álvarez could be a perfect fit with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal

Throughout the season, head coach Hansi Flick has faced serious issues in attack, as Ferran Torres has been quite inconsistent and Robert Lewandowski can no longer press or fit into the starting XI as he once did. For this reason, the potential arrival of Julián Álvarez would be crucial, as he could elevate the performances of Raphinha and Lamine Yamal while also providing consistent goalscoring output.

Julián Álvarez has proven to be a truly difference-making player, with his physicality and tactical intelligence making him key in attack. He not only creates space and provides passes for his teammates, but is also capable of winning physical duels against world-class defenders. As a modern forward, the Argentine could fit perfectly into Hansi Flick’s high-pressing system, forming an ideal partnership with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.

Despite the Argentine emerging as an ideal fit, the Blaugrana are keeping alternatives in mind, such as Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray or Luis Suárez of Sporting Lisbon, according to Adrián Sánchez of MasQuePelotas. While the Nigerian could also exceed €80 million, the Colombian would likely be a more affordable option. Nevertheless, Julián Álvarez remains the absolute priority, as his profile and potential strongly impress the club’s front office.

According to José Félix Díaz via Diario AS, Gonzalo García is set to leave Real Madrid after failing to secure consistent playing time throughout the season. As a result, Borussia Dortmund have emerged as the main interested party in the Spanish striker, reportedly willing to submit a €30M offer. However, Real Madrid do not consider this acceptable, as they value the 22-year-old striker at €60M, which complicates a potential move to the Bundesliga.

Amid a disappointing season for Real Madrid, Gonzalo has shown a distinct goalscoring ability, standing out in the limited minutes he has been given, as he usually comes on late in matches and is rarely a starter. Because of this, it may be difficult for him to command a transfer fee close to €60M, as he is not a regular starter at a top European club and still has much to prove.

Neither Xabi Alonso nor Álvaro Arbeloa gave Gonzalo García enough playing time to showcase his scoring prowess, raising doubts about his potential. Nonetheless, Borussia Dortmund maintain a cordial relationship with Real Madrid, which could facilitate his transfer with buy-back clauses, ensuring him to play a significant role in his professional career, with hopes of replicating the success of Nico Paz, who is now excelling as an undisputed starter in Serie A.

Endrick may endanger Gonzalo García’s playing time at Real Madrid

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Gonzalo García managed to edge out Endrick, earning more playing time and even forcing the Brazilian’s departure in January 2026. However, the situation could change drastically next season, as his loan spell at Olympique Lyon was a complete success, establishing as an undisputed starter. As a result, the Spaniard could be forced to leave if he wants to secure consistent playing time.

Endrick has managed to showcase his talent during his spell at Olympique Lyon. After playing 18 matches, the Brazilian has recorded 7 goals and 3 assists. Beyond his statistics, he has shown strong involvement in the team’s collective play, helping elevate the performances of his teammates. As a result, Real Madrid are reportedly open to keeping him in the squad, as he could be compatible with Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé—something Gonzalo does not currently offer.

With this in mind, Gonzalo García should accept his departure, whether on loan or permanently, in search of a similar impact to Endrick. In addition, he could return to Los Blancos, something that already happened with Álvaro Morata, who came back after shining at Juventus as an undisputed starter. For this reason, the Spaniard could benefit greatly from leaving, securing a better future.

According to Matteo Moretto, a transfer market specialist journalist, the future of Marcus Rashford is far from decided. Although he wants to remain at Barcelona, the club aims to lower his €30M buy clause, as he is 29 years old and they would not be able to amortize his contract over many years due to its relatively short length. While Manchester United are not looking to reduce his valuation, Rafael Leão could play a key role in the Englishman’s future.

If Rashford were to return to the Red Devils, he would receive a salary increase by playing in the UEFA Champions League. With this in mind, United would look to sell him quickly, aiming to free up wage space to pursue the signing of Rafael Leão, who is reportedly set to leave AC Milan for the Premier League, according to Football Insider. As a result, Barcelona and Rashford could push to reduce his transfer fee, as a return to Manchester United would be complicated.

Looking for a definitive boost to their squad, Manchester United could make a strong push for Rafael Leão, as they currently lack a dribbling-focused left winger in their squad. Being a highly decisive player, they could end up in a bidding battle with Manchester City and Liverpool—something they may not be able to afford without selling Rashford, whose high salary could block the arrival of the Portuguese forward, making things easier for Barcelona.

Report: Barcelona struggle as Víctor Muñoz, Jan Virgili don’t convince

Amid growing doubts over the future of Marcus Rashford, Barcelona are already considering alternatives, as they continue to pursue a signing on the left wing. While Víctor Muñoz and Jan Virgili had emerged as possible replacements for the Englishman, neither fully convinces the club for different reasons. As a result, the Blaugrana side face significant uncertainty in the transfer market.

According to Carlos Monfort via Diario Sport, Barcelona sporting director Deco has already met with the agent of Víctor Muñoz, aiming to bring positions closer for a potential transfer. However, they are not fully willing to pay the €40M release clause to CA Osasuna, since Real Madrid own 50% of his rights, which would effectively strengthen their direct rival—making the operation nearly ruled out.

Jan Virgili remains one of the best-positioned options to reinforce the wing. With Barcelona holding 40% of his future sale, his transfer fee would be in the range of €13–17M. Despite this, the Blaugrana do not currently consider his signing a priority, according to Sergi Capdevila via Diario Sport. As a result, they may still lack a clear alternative to Marcus Rashford, which could lead them to continue pressuring Manchester United to lower his valuation.

According to El Partidazo de COPE, Real Madrid have already initiated direct contact with Lionel Scaloni, aiming for him to become the club’s head coach starting next season. With his contract with Argentina running until December 2026, he may not face major obstacles in securing the move. Additionally, president Florentino Pérez reportedly views him as a strong candidate due to his experience and proven ability to manage egos in the dressing room.

If he decides to take charge of Real Madrid, Lionel Scaloni would face the biggest challenge of his career. While he succeeded with Argentina, he has not managed club teams on a day-to-day basis for a long period, having only worked as an assistant to Jorge Sampaoli in Sevilla. However, he has already shown the ability to manage a squad full of stars, so he would be expected to bring out the best in Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr, and Jude Bellingham in the same starting lineup.

With the 2026 World Cup just a few months away, Scaloni may not define his professional future until mid-July, once the tournament concludes. As a result, Real Madrid could face delays in their sporting planning, complicating key decisions such as transfers or departures—like the future of Franco Mastantuono or the possible return of Nico Paz. Moreover, if he manages to win the tournament with the national team, Argentina could try to convince him to stay.

Didier Deschamps may also emerge as a key option for Real Madrid

Alongside Lionel Scaloni, Didier Deschamps has emerged as one of the best coaches in recent years, leading a golden generation of France that reached two World Cup finals and won the 2018 edition. After several years, he has decided to leave the national team at the end of the tournament, becoming a free agent. As a result, Real Madrid are said to view him as another strong candidate, given his greater experience at club level.

According to several Spanish media outlets, Real Madrid consider Deschamps a strong option to take charge of the team. Not only did he succeed with France, but he also achieved success with Olympique Marseille, winning several titles during his spell there. In addition, he knows Kylian Mbappé, as well as Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Ferland Mendy, which could be key for his integration into the squad.

Given the potential complications surrounding Lionel Scaloni, Didier Deschamps represents a more accessible option, as his contract situation would allow for an immediate move regardless of whether he wins the World Cup or not. Additionally, he has experience rebuilding squads, something crucial for Real Madrid after two consecutive trophyless seasons.

“We can confirm that Xavi Simons has ruptured the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in his right knee. The 23-year-old suffered the injury during the second half of our Premier League fixture at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday. Xavi will undergo surgery in the coming weeks and, following that, will then begin his rehabilitation with our medical team,” reports Tottenham Hotspur on their website.

Amid a difficult season for Tottenham Hotspur, the injury to Xavi Simons is one of the worst possible setbacks, as they lose their most decisive player while fighting to stay in the Premier League. Although the club has not provided a specific recovery timeline, the Dutchman could be out for 7–8 months, missing a large part of the 2026–27 season—potentially the most serious injury of his career.

Xavi Simons has established as one of the standout players, becoming the central figure for head coach Roberto De Zerbi at Spurs. Beyond the statistics, the 23-year-old star has proven to be the team’s most influential player, contributing both in scoring and creativity while elevating his teammates. In his absence, Lucas Bergvall could see increased playing time, presenting a perfect opportunity to showcase his talent.

Xavi Simons shares emotive post amid his ACL injury

Unlike previous seasons, Tottenham Hotspur are fighting to avoid relegation rather than qualifying for European competitions. With only a few matches left to decide their Premier League fate, the injury to Xavi Simons is a major blow for the team. Aware of the seriousness of the situation, the 23-year-old star shared an emotional message on social media, sending encouragement to his teammates and acknowledging his absence from the 2026 World Cup.

“…My season has come to an abrupt end and I’m just trying to process it. Honestly, I’m heartbroken. None of it makes sense. All I’ve wanted to do is fight for my team and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me… along with the World Cup. Representing my country this summer…just gone. It’ll take time to find peace with this, but I’ll continue to be the best teammate I can be. I have no doubt that together we’ll win this fight,” posted Xavi Simons, vis Instagram.

Who can take Xavi Simons spot with Netherland in the 2026 World Cup?

Under the guidance of head coach Ronald Koeman, Xavi Simons has gradually earned a more prominent role in the team, becoming a key outlet on the wings. Because of this, Noa Lang or Brian Brobbey could take on a more important role, becoming key parts of the rotation for the 2026 World Cup. In addition, Luciano Valente could remain a surprise option, potentially filling the role the 23-year-old previously occupied in midfield.

In Real Madrid’s recent draw against Real Betis, Kylian Mbappé asked to be substituted in the 81st minute, causing concern among fans. A few hours later, the Spanish club issued a statement confirming the extent of his injury: “Following tests conducted today by Real Madrid’s medical staff, our player Kylian Mbappé has been diagnosed with an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg. His condition is being monitored.”

While los Blancos chose not to provide a specific recovery timeline, Kylian Mbappé would not play again this season, as there is little at stake for them in LaLiga and they prefer not to push him physically, reports Christian Blasco via Diario Sport. However, the Frenchman is expected to arrive in top form for the 2026 World Cup—something crucial for his professional career, especially after already dealing with a significant injury this season.

Alongside Mbappé’s injury, Real Madrid will be without Éder Militão, Arda Güler, and Rodrygo for the remainder of the season, representing a significant loss for head coach Álvaro Arbeloa. As a result, Gonzalo García or Brahim Díaz could become key protagonists for the rest of the campaign, having a major opportunity to prove they deserve to remain in the squad. With this in mind, Kylian is set to shine in the 2026 World Cup with France.

Kylian Mbappé could deny Lionel Messi historic World Cup record

Kylian Mbappé is having an outstanding season with Real Madrid. Despite the team leaving much to be desired collectively, the Frenchman remains in exceptional scoring form, netting 41 goals in 41 matches. As a result, the 27-year-old striker is on track for a historic campaign with France at the 2026 World Cup. He could even prevent Lionel Messi from reaching a historic record in the competition, achieving it himself instead.

At 38 years old, Lionel Messi stands as the clear favorite to become the all-time top scorer in the tournament, as he currently has 13 goals and would need just four more to surpass Miroslav Klose. However, Kylian Mbappé could prevent the veteran from reaching this record, as he already has 12 goals in just two editions and could aim to become the competition’s all-time top scorer himself at only 27 years old.

With this in mind, the Frenchman might prioritize regaining full fitness, potentially ruling out playing for Real Madrid this season. Since the team is not contending for any titles, he risks aggravating his injury and missing the anticipated tournament. Furthermore, the 27-year-old striker aims to return to peak form to compete with Los Blancos in the 2026-27 season, especially given the injuries affecting some of his teammates.

In a recent interview for his YouTube channel, Romario asked Xavi Hernández if he considers that Lamine Yamal could one day be compared to Lionel Messi. In response, the Spaniard said: “Yes, he can be compared. He is a chosen one, a soccer genius, and now it depends on him. He is one of the best, or the best, currently. Now it depends on his desire to make history,” Barcelona‘s legend Xavi revealed, via Romario TV.

Lamine Yamal has demonstrated generational talent, being capable of leading an entire project toward multiple titles. With this in mind, Xavi’s comparison is not meant to equate the Argentine with the 18-year-old star, but rather to recognize that he has the talent to reach a similar level of impact. However, the Spaniard faces the most difficult task of all: Continuing to improve and sustain his influence for more than 15 years, something Messi has already achieved.

Since his debut in 2023, Lamine has already managed to stay at the elite level of the sport, becoming an undisputed starter under both Xavi Hernández and Hansi Flick. Across 151 matches, he has scored 49 goals and provided 52 assists, while also winning two LaLiga titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups. Alongside this, he has carried his impact over to Spain, scoring 6 goals and providing 12 assists in 25 matches, winning the 2024 UEFA Euro as a starter.

Lamine Yamal surpasses Messi and Cristiano in scoring record

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have managed to remain among the best players in the world, winning multiple individual awards throughout their careers. Not only do they stand out in terms of trophies, but both have already surpassed 900 career goals, with a focus on reaching 1,000 goals before retirement. However, Lamine Yamal has already managed to surpass both legends in a scoring milestone early in his short professional career.

Lamine has reached 50 professional goals at just 18 years old, achieving this after scoring against Athletic Club in March 2026, doing so in only 165 matches. With this, the Spaniard surpasses Lionel Messi, who reached the same mark at 20 years old, while Cristiano Ronaldo did so at 21. If he manages to maintain this scoring rate, he could eventually surpass both on a statistical level.

According to Okaz, a well-known Saudi media outlet, Al Nassr’s Jorge Jesus has given his approval to pursue the signing of Mohamed Salah. With this, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team emerges as the frontrunner to secure his arrival. In addition, the head coach would have promised an ideal fit for the Egyptian within the tactical system alongside the veteran Portuguese, in what could become one of the best attacking duos in soccer world.

Despite not being at his best level, Mohamed Salah continues to post strong numbers for Liverpool. In what is considered a “disappointing” season, the Egyptian has still managed to score 12 goals and provide 9 assists across the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and Community Shield. Because of this, his potential move to Al Nassr would represent a significant boost to the team’s attack, helping Cristiano Ronaldo form.

Report: Salah’s arrival to Al Nassr depends on Jorge Jesus future

The potential arrival of Mohamed Salah at Al Nassr could depend on the future of Jorge Jesus. With his contract running until the end of June 2026, extending his deal is a priority for the club. With negotiations still ongoing, the Egyptian’s arrival could be delayed until the Portuguese coach is renewed, as he is the one who claims he can fit him into the team’s playing system, according to Okaz.

Jorge Jesus has managed to transform Al Nassr’s reality, implementing a style of play where high pressing and wing play stand out. Sitting at the top of the Saudi Pro League and reaching the AFC Champions League Two final, the Portuguese coach is one of the most important figures for the team, meaning Salah’s arrival could be pushed to the background for some time.

With Al Hilal and Al Ittihad also pursuing Mohamed Salah, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team could risk missing out on his signing. While they focus on renewing their head coach, their rivals are focused on convincing him with playing time and competitive squads to compete for multiple titles along the way. Therefore, the Egyptian’s future remains uncertain.

Kingsley Coman and Sadio Mane’s presence may affect Salah’s arrival

Since Jorge Jesus took over, Kingsley Coman and Sadio Mané have stepped up their game, establishing as two of Al Nassr’s standout players. The Frenchman has scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists, shining on the right wing. Meanwhile, the Senegalese player has scored 13 goals and provided 8 assists, shining on the left wing. Despite their strong performances, the arrival of Mohamed Salah could overshadow them, creating a problem within the roster.

Without any clear reasons related to poor performance, leaving either Coman or Mané on the bench could create problems. Being a right winger, Salah would force one of them to reduce their playing time, something they may not be willing to accept. Because of this, the Egyptian could end up reshaping the squad composition, which currently remains quite balanced under Jorge Jesus.

As a champion of the 2010 edition, Xavi Hernández has already made a prediction about the national teams favored to win the 2026 World Cup: “Spain, Brazil, Argentina, France—and I would add Portugal. I have doubts between Portugal and England. I see Germany as less ‘Germany’ than in previous years, but it’s still Germany,” he said, via Romario TV.

Spain, Argentina, and France continue to dominate as the world’s top national teams. They boast world-class rosters and maintain a well-balanced lineup across all positions. However, Lionel Messi’s squad remains a surprise contender. Despite securing the title in the 2022 edition, they have managed to stay highly competitive and are now aiming for a second consecutive championship—an achievement France have pursued since 2018.

While Portugal are emerging as a solid national team for Xavi Hernandez, he listed them alongside England and Germany, making it clear that they aren’t the favorites. However, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team is coming off a stellar performance in the 2025 UEFA Nations League, demonstrating an ideal balance between experience and youth that makes them quite competitive. Furthermore, the veteran remains one of the most prolific scorers, making them a clear contender.

Messi and Cristiano eye record-breaking participation 2026 World Cup

Unlike previous editions, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have cast doubt over their participation in the 2026 World Cup. Now veterans, both prefer not to look too far ahead and instead focus on the present, as their performances could determine whether they ultimately decide to take part. However, both legends remain in top form, aiming for a historic participation in the anticipated tournament.

Both Messi and Cristiano could be facing their final World Cup edition, as they are already over 38 years old. If they take part, they would become the players with the most appearances in the tournament, with six. In addition, the Argentine is just four goals away from overtaking Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, something the Portuguese does not approach as easily, as he has only eight goals.

Argentina and Portugal are looking to make history at World Cup

Both Argentina and Portugal can write their names into World Cup history. Led by Cristiano Ronaldo, his national team aims to win its first edition of the tournament, setting a historic record for both his country and the veteran’s career. However, Lionel Messi’s team could break a record that has stood for 64 years in tournament history.

If La Albiceleste wins the 2026 World Cup, they would become the first national team in 64 years to win back-to-back editions, with the last being Brazil in 1958 and 1962. With this, Argentina would enter history as one of the most dominant teams in tournament history, further strengthening Lionel Messi in the GOAT debate, with two titles to his name—something neither Diego Maradona nor Cristiano Ronaldo would have achieved.

“What I saw from Neymar during his first week with us is the closest thing to Messi. I haven’t seen any player as close to Messi as Neymar was when he joined Barça at 21 years old. He couldn’t return when I was coach, but because of the club’s financial situation. I was also able to bring back Alves, Pedrito, and Messi,” Xavi Hernandez said, via Romario TV.

After playing 186 matches for Barcelona, the Brazilian managed to score 105 goals and provide 76 assists. In addition, he played a key role in the team’s trophy success, leading in their last Champions League title, two LaLiga titles, the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup, three Copa del Rey trophies, and one Spanish Super Cup. Beyond statistics and titles, he left a major legacy through his brilliant playing style.

Neymar Jr. complemented Lionel Messi at Barcelona

Far from being overshadowed by Lionel Messi’s presence, Neymar Jr. was pushed to his best version. With 67 goal contributions together in 206 games, the Argentine is the teammate with whom the Brazilian has been most prolific in his career. Alongside this, the pair shared a brilliant on-field connection, creating numerous scoring chances for Barcelona. In addition, the 34-year-old led the historic comeback against PSG in the Champions League.

While Messi stood out for his goalscoring and creativity, Neymar excelled in dribbling and pace, opening up space against tight defensive lines. In addition, the Argentine linked up perfectly with the Brazilian, helping the team secure several memorable victories, as there were no egos or jealousy involved. Since they did not operate in the same areas of the pitch or share the same characteristics, they complemented each other.

Neymar Jr. reveals the two reasons that led him to leave Barcelona

With Lionel Messi already a veteran, Barcelona viewed Neymar Jr. as the natural successor to the team’s leadership, as he had already established as one of the squad’s main goalscorers and playmakers. Despite this, the Brazilian decided to leave the club in 2017, heading to PSG. Amid rumours that he was departing in order to become the best player in the world, he revealed the two main reasons that led him to leave the Blaugrana.

“I didn’t leave with the idea of becoming the best in the world. Messi told me he would make me the best in the world. But I left for other personal reasons. Of course, PSG are financially stronger than Barça, and in Paris there were Brazilian players, and they were all my friends (Lucas Moura, Dani Alves, Marquinhos, and Thiago Silva),” Neymar Jr. revealed in a 2025 interview with Romario.

With his departure from the Blaugrana, Neymar’s legacy at the club was left somewhat damaged, with the Brazilian frequently facing criticism from fans. Even so, Xavi Hernández revealed that he came close to returning while he was head coach, something he reportedly pursued over several seasons. Despite this, the Brazilian still wrote his name into Barcelona’s history, remaining fondly remembered by many supporters.

Christian Pulisic will start for the Rossoneri after avoiding injuries in recent weeks. While he has yet to rediscover his goal-scoring impact, the USMNT star remains a key offensive presence, creating space and opportunities for his teammates in attack. In addition, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has made his support for the 27-year-old clear, as he believes Pulisic can still return to his best form.

Coupled with the USMNT star, AC Milan will line up Rafael Leao as the starting offensive duo for the entire season. Although they are not coming off their best performances, they remain Allegri’s best bet, as Santiago Gimenez, Christopher Nkunku, and Niclas Füllkrug have yet to shine. Nonetheless, there are still high hopes for Adrien Rabiot to play a key role in scoring, as seen in the team’s recent victories.

Juventus have significantly improved their competitiveness under Luciano Spalletti. He has not only brought defensive stability but has also restored the team’s offensive brilliance. Jeremie Boga has stood out as the team’s top performers. However, Weston McKennie is also key to the team, as one of Serie A’s best box-to-box midfielders who also contributes offensively. Coming off a strong run, they enter the match as clear favorites.

AC Milan lineup vs Juventus

Unlike the previous games, AC Milan arrive with their full squad available, offering several options on the bench. Despite this, head coach Massimiliano Allegri will opt not to make changes to his starting lineup, a tendency he has maintained since the beginning of the season. As a result, the Rossoneri will continue to place their attacking expectations on the midfield, with Adrien Rabiot, Pulisic and Leão being the main focus.

Considering this, the Rossoneri will lineup as follows: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlovic; Alexis Saelemaekers, Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Davide Bartesaghi; Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leão.

Juventus lineup vs AC Milan

Juventus will still be missing two key players from their squad: Juan Cabal and Arkadiusz Milik. However, Luciano Spalletti has managed to find stability in their absence, achieving strong consistency on the attacking side. Weston McKennie have also stood out in terms of goal contributions. Despite this, Jeremie Boga’s presence will be a decisive factor, as he has been in impressive form in recent matches.

With this in mind, the Vecchia Signora will play as follows: Michele Di Gregorio; Pierre Kalulu, Bremer, Lloyd Kelly; Weston McKennie, Manuel Locatelli, Khéphren Thuram, Andrea Cambiasso; Francisco Conceição, Jeremie Boga; Jonathan David.

“I’d like them to surpass Messi, but I don’t think it will happen. I lived with Leo every day for 15 years and he was the best at everything: technically, physically, in understanding the game, heading, his weaker foot, his mentality. he’s a competitive animal. Unmatched. When you gave him the ball, everything improved and he made you better… I tried to bring him back to Barcelona but, in the end, the president said no,” Xavi Hernández said, via Romario TV.

Despite not having retired yet, Lionel Messi stands as one of the favorites in the GOAT debate, having scored 905 goals and provided 407 assists. In addition, he became the player with the most collective titles in history, winning 46 and surpassing Dani Alves, who finished with 43. Moreover, the Argentine transformed Barcelona’s history, leading the most successful era in the club’s history.

As a Barcelona legend, Lionel Messi was forced to leave the club in 2021 due to financial issues that created problems with president Joan Laporta. Despite this, Xavi Hernández pushed for the Argentine’s return during his time as head coach, even reaching an agreement with his camp, as he revealed in an interview with La Vanguardia. However, the president reportedly rejected his return in 2023, just before his move to Inter Miami, something that really hurt Xavi.

Xavi Hernandez and Lionel Messi led Barcelona’s golden era

After making his debut in 1998, Xavi Hernández became one of Barcelona’s most important players, establishing as a regular starter. As a result, he played a key role in the early stages of Lionel Messi’s professional career, who debuted in 2004. Together, they went on to emerge as leaders of the club’s most successful era, initially under Frank Rijkaard and later perfected by Pep Guardiola, forming arguably the greatest squad in the club’s history.

Xavi and Messi played 399 matches together, serving as the team’s core. While the Spaniard organized play and controlled the tempo, the Argentine tore apart opposing defenses, scoring goals and providing assists to his teammates. Although they combined for just 43 direct goal contributions, their connection on the pitch went beyond statistics, as both were fundamental to the team’s overall balance and stability.

With a contract running until 2027, Pep Guardiola does not appear to be particularly open to extending his spell with the Citizens. In fact, several English media outlets claim that the Spanish coach will leave at the end of the season. However, they have reportedly asked him to clarify his intentions before the 2026 World Cup, according to Ben Jacobs. Far from being driven by a desire for a new challenge, he has previously stated that Manchester City will be his final club.

Amid this uncertainty, the Citizens are already holding positive talks with Enzo Maresca as a potential candidate to take over, according to Jacob Steinberg via The Guardian. Although he was dismissed by Chelsea, Guardiola praised his work in December 2025, calling him one of the best coaches in the world. Despite this, Manchester City have not reached an agreement with the Italian, as he is reportedly still bound by contractual obligations with the Blues.

Enzo Maresca already knows Manchester City system

Enzo Maresca has built a highly promising coaching career. At 46 years old, the Italian has already played a key role in English soccer, leading Leicester City’s promotion in 2024. In addition, he had a significant impact at Chelsea, guiding them to victory in the UEFA Conference League and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. However, he is now the leading candidate for Manchester City because he already knows the system from the inside.

After serving as an assistant coach at Ascoli, Sevilla, and West Ham, the Italian joined Manchester City U23, where he enjoyed a successful spell that eventually led him to Parma. He then returned to the Citizens, becoming Pep Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022–23 season, gaining close insight into the team’s system and methodology. He later applied these principles at Leicester City and Chelsea, achieving considerable success.

With this in mind, a potential departure of Pep Guardiola could be ideally covered by Enzo Maresca, offering continuity in the team’s playing style. With this, Manchester City would ensure a smooth transition, aiming to continue winning Premier League titles and competing in the latter stages of the UEFA Champions League. While the absence of the Spaniard would not be easy to manage, the Italian has demonstrated the ability to lead major projects.

According to David Kent via Daily Mail, the Rossoneri are open to Rafael Leão’s departure, attracting interest from Manchester City, as well as Manchester United and Liverpool. Despite remaining in Massimiliano Allegri’s plans, they would reportedly ask for $80 million for his transfer, as the head coach still considers him a world-class player. With a contract running until 2028, AC Milan could look to sell him before he enters the final year of his deal.

Unlike in previous seasons, the relationship between Rafael Leão and AC Milan’s fans is not at its best, as the reported boos are pushing him toward a potential exit. In addition, the Portuguese forward has acknowledged being a big fan of the Premier League, which could make a move appealing after several years in Serie A. Nevertheless, Liverpool could hold an advantage, as they would be in the market for wingers following the departure of Mohamed Salah.

Despite not being at his best, Rafael Leão has still shown his difference-making talent at the Rossoneri. After 27 appearances, the Portuguese forward has scored 10 goals and provided 3 assists, not as a left winger but playing as a center forward. In addition, he has consistently reached double digits over several seasons at AC Milan, which suggests he could fit clearly at Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool.

Rafael Leão may seek to shine again as left winger, ruling out AC Milan

Rafael Leão managed to show his best version at AC Milan, shining as a left winger for six years. Whether under Stefano Pioli, Paulo Fonseca, or Sérgio Conceição, the Portuguese forward consistently reached double digits season after season. Moreover, he made an impact beyond the statistics, proving decisive with his pace and dribbling. However, Massimiliano Allegri’s arrival changed everything, shifting him out of position and leading to his drop in form.

Unlike previous coaches, Allegri has opted to field only two forwards, ruling out the use of wingers and replacing them with wing-backs. Since he doesn’t excel defensively, he couldn’t occupy the wing, leaving only the center-forward position open. While he has managed to score 10 goals, he hasn’t fully adapted, which has dampened his impact. Since the coach isn’t planning to change his playing system, Rafael Leão might prioritize a move to return to his natural position.

Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United all operate within tactical systems where dribble-heavy wingers play a key role. In addition, the pace and intensity of the Premier League could bring out his best version—something that already happened with Mohamed Salah after his move from AS Roma. With this in mind, the Portuguese star could look to force an exit from AC Milan after the 2026 World Cup, aiming to return to his peak form.

“If the right conditions are there, of course. Tottenham feels like home to us. We identify with the club’s idiosyncrasies, values and supporters. Right now it’s about enjoying the World Cup. After that, I’ve always said I came so close to winning the Premier League and Champions League, and want to try again. I’d like to be part of a project with the ambition of winning both,” Pochettino said, via FourFourTwo.

Even though Pochettino does not close the door on a return to Tottenham Hotspur, this would be quite complicated due to the current reality of the team. With only a few matches left in the Premier League, they are in the relegation zone, and have five games in which they must win if they are to even dream of survival. In the event of relegation to the EFL Championship, they would not be able to offer a project like the one Mauricio is looking for.

Tottenham Hotspur could potentially not need Mauricio Pochettino, as they have already tied Roberto De Zerbi to the sporting project. Aiming a rebuild, they have targeted the Italian coach, who has stated that he will remain at the club whether they are in the Premier League or the EFL Championship. In addition, the English side has offered him a contract until 2031, making clear their intention to build a long-term project and effectively ruling out the Argentine.

Mauricio Pochettino’s future might be at Real Madrid

Mauricio Pochettino has made it clear that his focus is on the 2026 World Cup, where he aims to deliver a strong campaign with the USMNT. However, the Argentine has had a significant impact on the national team, developing several young talents and raising the overall competitiveness of the squad. Because of this, he has reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid, who see him as a strong option following the potential departure of Álvaro Arbeloa.

According to Mario Cortegana, via The Athletic, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez highly values Pochettino’s profile, as he could arrive on a free transfer, without needing to negotiate with clubs such as Jürgen Klopp with the Red Bull group. In addition, the Argentine has experience managing big egos in the dressing room, having handled PSG with Kylian Mbappé, Neymar Jr., and Lionel Messi. However, both parties have not yet made any formal or official contact.

Far from being the only name considered alongside Klopp, Real Madrid are also looking at Didier Deschamps and José Mourinho, meaning Mauricio Pochettino would not have an easy path to the job despite being personally favoured by the president. In addition, he still has the 2026 World Cup with USMNT ahead of him, so his future would not be clear until after the tournament, according to The Athletic.

According to Laurie Whitwell via The Athletic, the Red Devils are closely monitoring Micky van de Ven’s development. In case Tottenham Hotspur were to be relegated to the EFL Championship, the Dutchman could push for a move away, potentially facilitating any negotiations. With his pace, ball control, and physical presence, he is seen as a difference-maker amid the recurring injuries of Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez.

Despite Manchester United’s interest, securing his signing would not be straightforward. According to The Athletic, Liverpool are also closely monitoring Micky van de Ven’s development, as they previously pursued his signing. Given this interest, the Red Devils could lose ground in the race for the Dutchman, as the defender would clearly prioritize a move to Anfield, according to Ben Jacobs, an English soccer expert journalist, via United Stand.

With a contract running until 2029 at Tottenham Hotspur, van de Ven’s departure could be quite complicated, as at 25 years old he is a key pillar of the team’s defense. For this reason, he would be valued at $135 million, reports TEAMtalk. If they remain in the Premier League, Liverpool and Manchester United would battle to secure his signing. This would be very different if Tottenham were to be relegated to the EFL Championship.

Not only Van de Ven: Senesi reportedly draws Man United and Liverpool

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Marcos Senesi has established as one of the best players in the Premier League. After announcing his departure from AFC Bournemouth as a free agent, the Argentine has attracted the attention of several clubs. Given the difficulty of securing Micky van de Ven’s signing, both Manchester United and Liverpool have reportedly shown interest in bringing him in, as he would offer immediate impact.

With the potential departure of Virgil van Dijk in 2027, the Reds are targeting Senesi as a world-class reinforcement. However, Lisandro Martínez’s injury issues are also forcing Manchester United to look for reliable reinforcements, making Marcos a key target for them as well, reports Ben Jacobs. With extensive Premier League experience and being a left-footed defender, he is the most accessible candidate for both teams—something that van de Ven does not offer.

With this in mind, Liverpool and Manchester United appear determined to pursue defensive reinforcements. As a free agent, Senesi is in the best position, as he is reportedly turning down moves to Serie A and focusing on staying in the Premier League. With Van Dijk still under contract, Senesi might not be guaranteed a starting role, something he could have with the Red Devils, who would have the advantage if they qualify for the Champions League.

According to Laia Cervelló and Pol Ballús, via The Athletic, Barcelona have cooled their interest in keeping Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal. After failing to stand out against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, they believe he did not take advantage of his opportunities in Raphinha’s absence. In addition, they consider the $35.3M purchase clause to be too high, ruling out his continuation under those conditions.

With Rashford’s potential departure, Barcelona have already set their sights on Víctor Muñoz, reports Diario Sport. After impressing at CA Osasuna, he has convinced with his impact, scoring six goals and providing five assists. At just 22 years old, he emerges as an ideal long-term replacement for Raphinha, as he was developed for many years at La Masia. Moreover, he would be available for a similar fee to the Englishman, as he has a $46M release clause.

Víctor Muñoz believes that signing for the Blaugrana would be the best option for him, as it would greatly benefit his development and future, reports Ferran Correas in Diario Sport. However, Real Madrid hold a buy-back clause over the next three transfer windows, as revealed by CA Osasuna head coach Braulio Vázquez. Because of this, the Spaniard could find it difficult to join Hansi Flick’s side, as Los Blancos would likely activate the clause immediately.

Barcelona reportedly eye three wingers amid Victor Muñoz concerns

Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, Barcelona will clearly need reinforcement on the left wing, as Raphinha has had some fitness issues and Marcus Rashford does not seem likely to continue. Given the difficulties in securing the signing of Víctor Muñoz, the Blaugrana are reportedly already monitoring three young wingers who are standing out at the top level: Jan Virgili, Ez Abde, and Andreas Schjelderup.

According to Ferran Martínez via Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana still consider Jan Virgili a clear option, as they hold 40% of his sporting rights and he has impressed at RCD Mallorca. Alongside him, Ez Abde is seen as another option, as his performances at Real Betis are highly rated and they own 20% of his sporting rights. Finally, they are also monitoring Andreas Schjelderup, who is shining at Benfica and could cost between €30–40 million.

Without chasing Rashford permanent transfer, Barcelona seem ready to chase a youngster to substitute Raphinha in the near future. While Ez Abde and Andreas Schjelderup shine, Jan Virgili may be an easier option due to his €40M release clause and the 40% that they have on his sporting rights. Moreover, head coach Hansi Flick could boost his impact, using the Brazilian veteran as a guide for the Spaniard.

According to Mario Cortegana in The Athletic, the Citizens are seriously considering a move for Enzo Fernández. With Bernardo Silva’s departure and uncertainty surrounding Rodri, whose contract runs until 2027, the Argentine is seen as an ideal signing, offering a balance between attacking and defensive contributions while also helping organize the team. In addition, he is reportedly open to changing clubs in the summer of 2026.

Despite Manchester City’s interest, Enzo Fernández’s departure from Chelsea may not be straightforward. Not only is he the team’s captain, but he is also under contract until 2032, meaning the club would be under no pressure to sell. Furthermore, the Blues could demand a fee of around €120 million (approximately $140 million), as that was the amount they paid for him in 2023, and they are not keen to let him leave easily given his key role.

While the Blues have not been at their best, Enzo has remained one of the team’s standout players. Whether at the base of midfield or in an advanced playmaking role, the Argentine is capable of organizing the team. However, Chelsea are not in a strong moment, having dismissed Liam Rosenior after just three months, setting an unwanted record. As a result, he has faced criticism, along with Cole Palmer and Moisés Caicedo, but they remain key figures for the team.

Chelsea’s next manager could shape Enzo Fernández’s future

Following the dismissal of Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have not managed to establish sporting stability of the kind that once led them to winning the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Far from being solved by Liam Rosenior’s appointment, the club is now going through a period of significant instability that could lead Enzo Fernández to push for a departure. Because of this, the Blues’ decision regarding their next head coach could ultimately define his professional future.

According to Jacob Steinberg, via The Guardian, Chelsea players believe the next head coach must be an experienced manager with strong authority to command respect in the dressing room and manage egos—something Maresca did provide. Because of this, if the Blues opt for a young coach or one without experience handling high-profile personalities, Enzo Fernández could push to leave the club, seeking to win major trophies elsewhere.

In the event of a potential departure for Enzo Fernández, not only Manchester City would be interested, but also Real Madrid, as per The Athletic. Because of this, the Argentine would have no trouble finding a world-class destination—something Chelsea are aware of and could try to counter by presenting a winning sporting project. However, they have struggled to establish it since Todd Boehly took over as owner of the club.

According to a statement posted by Real Madrid on their website, Arda Güler has been diagnosed with a muscle injury in the biceps femoris of his right leg. While the club did not provide a recovery timeline, Diario Marca reports that the Turkish player will miss the rest of the season with the team but is expected to be fit in time for the 2026 World Cup. With this, Güler is now focused on being ready for the anticipated tournament.

Not only the Turkish player has been injured, but also Éder Militão. After being substituted in the 45th minute, the Brazilian was diagnosed with a muscle injury in the biceps femoris of his left leg, Real Madrid reported in a statement on their website. As with Arda, no recovery timeline was provided, but Fabrizio Romano reported via X that the Brazilian will miss the rest of the season with the team, though he is expected to be ready in time for the 2026 World Cup.

Amid a disappointing season for Los Blancos, the absences of Güler and Militão are a major blow to the team, as they had been among the standout players on the roster. With this, coach Álvaro Arbeloa could once again give a prominent role to Franco Mastantuono or reintroduce Brahim Díaz, who has been shining despite limited minutes. In addition, Antonio Rüdiger will once again play a key role defensively in the final games.

Real Madrid injury crisis fuels underwhelming season

Following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti and his staff, Real Madrid appear not to have found balance in their sporting project. Not only did Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa disappoint, but injuries have also had a major impact on the team’s results. Alongside Rodrygo’s season-ending injury, the most recent setbacks to Éder Militão and Arda Güler have added to the toll. Nevertheless, several stars have been affected throughout the season.

Thibaut Courtois, Dean Huijsen, Raúl Asencio, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, Daniel Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jude Bellingham, Franco Mastantuono, and more players have dealt with injuries lasting several weeks during this campaign. A couple of injuries can be isolated cases, but having more than nine players with physical issues could point to poor physical preparation or be the result of instability at the coaching level and within the staff.

Not only are Los Blancos looking to change head coach, but they could also readjust their physical planning, aiming to avoid the numerous injuries to their stars and maximize their potential. In addition, they may need serious adjustments in defense and midfield—areas that have been most affected and could require players capable of bringing balance to the team.

According to Mario Cortegana, via The Athletic, Estêvão has been diagnosed with a grade four hamstring injury after the match against Brighton & Hove Albion. As a result, he is expected to miss the remainder of the season, putting his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Brazil at risk. However, Eduardo Burgos, a Diario AS journalist specializing in South American soccer, has stated that the 18-year-old star still has a strong chance of making the tournament.

Despite his injury, Estêvão is pushing for Chelsea to allow him to undergo conservative treatment under the supervision of the Brazilian Soccer Confederation (CBF). With this approach, he aims to recover in time for the 2026 World Cup. However, the Blues were reportedly planning to proceed with surgery, which would rule him out of the tournament, according to Cahê Mota via GeGlobo.

In light of Estêvão’s potential absence, Neymar Jr. could have a major opportunity to secure a spot in Brazil’s squad. While the veteran is no longer a traditional winger, he could allow Raphinha to occupy that role, opening up space for in an attacking midfield position. In addition, Endrick and Igor Thiago could round out the squad, as they are reportedly among the targets of head coach Carlo Ancelotti and would add depth to the attack, either out wide or up front.

Neymar Jr. has little time to convince Brazil’s Carlo Ancelotti

Following his meniscus surgery in December 2025, Neymar Jr. appears to be gradually regaining his best physical condition at Santos FC. Despite this, he remains under a strict minutes management plan, aiming to control his workload and optimize his performance. Having not been part of Carlo Ancelotti’s process, the veteran has very little time to make a significant impact and earn a place in the final squad.

Throughout the 2026 season, Neymar has remained an undisputed starter under head coach Cuca, recording four goals and three assists in the nine matches he has played. Beyond the statistics, the veteran stands out as the team’s creative hub, orchestrating play for his teammates. However, he will need to maintain his level and even improve his goal-scoring output if he wants to make the final squad list on May 18.

Unlike Estêvão, Neymar Jr. could boost the team’s overall performance, opening gaps for Vinicius Jr. and Raphinha. Coupled with this, his extensive experience may be really useful as Brazil’s roster is full of young talent, making the 34-year-old a perfect leader. Nonetheless, he would need to accept a secondary role, as Matheus Cunha is the starter under Carlo Ancelotti, something that may not easily change along the 2026 World Cup.

While Liam Rosenior arrived as a promising candidate, he failed to establish a competitive identity for the squad, racking up 10 losses, 2 draws, and 11 wins. As a result, they announced his dismissal, with a statement in their website: “Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Liam Rosenior… recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season.”

Following his official dismissal, Liam becomes the shortest-serving permanent manager in the club’s history, having overseen just 23 Premier League matches. While names such as Bruno Saltor, Clum McFarlane, Graham Rix, and Frank Lampard appear on the list, they all served only as interim managers. As a result, Rosenior now leads this category, casting a very poor light on his tenure.

Along with Rosenior, the Blues have amassed an interesting list of head coaches who didn’t last long, with Graham Potter being the next on the list, as he was fired after 31 games during the 2022–23 season. Next, Luiz Felipe Scolari emerges, being fired after 36 games in the 2008-09 season. After him, André Villas-Boas appears, having been fired after 40 games in the 2011-12 season. Rounding out the list is Roberto Di Matteo, who was fired after 42 games in 2012.

Report: Chelsea have pointed to Calum McFarlane as interim coach

Having just four games remaining in the 2025-26 season, Chelsea have decided to adjust their sporting project, aiming to secure a place in European competitions. Sitting in eighth position in the Premier League, the Blues would likely need to win all of their remaining games just to keep that hope alive. With this objective in mind, they have reportedly turned to Calum McFarlane as interim head coach.

According to Fabrizio Romano, via X (formerly Twitter), Calum McFarlane will serve as the Blues’ interim head coach until the end of the season. This would mark his second stint with the team, having already managed two matches in January 2026, giving him first-hand familiarity with the squad. However, he is not expected to be a long-term solution, as Chelsea will likely explore other options in the summer of 2026.

Chelsea’s problems run deeper than just the manager

Since Todd Boehly’s arrival at Chelsea, the club appear to lack a clear direction at the sporting level. Under Enzo Maresca, they signaled an attacking approach, appointing a coach with proven success at the elite level. However, the Blues have moved away from experienced veterans, instead placing their trust in younger players. As a result, they have struggled to find consistency, making this one of the first issues that needs to be addressed.

Without experience in the defensive line, the Blues have faced significant difficulties, as Jorrel Hato, Trevoh Chalobah, and Wesley Fofana have not performed as expected. Consequently, they may need to sign a world-class defender capable of leading the team—similar to what Liverpool did with Virgil van Dijk. In addition, Chelsea could require a reliable goalkeeper, as Robert Sánchez has not had his best season, raising serious concerns.

Al Ahli Doha came in as a strong opponent, having impressed offensively. Taking advantage of spaces in Al Nassr’s defense, they dominated the opening minutes with through balls that Sekou Yansané capitalized on, dribbling past Iñigo Martínez and firing a superb shot across goal to beat Bento. However, their joy was short-lived, as they quickly conceded the equalizer and lost momentum.

Under Al Nassr’s intense high press, Al Ahli Doha lost control of the game and struggled to create attacking chances. Julian Draxler and Michel Vlap were unable to lead the creative phase, leaving the team disconnected and often exposed on the counterattack, without support to build collective plays. Along with this, major defensive errors caused them to suffer a heavy defeat, without any real opportunities to respond.

Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a disappointing performance for Al Nassr, seeing little of the ball and finishing poorly in front of goal—something quite unusual for him. Despite this, his team managed to shine in dominant fashion, with Angelo emerging as the key figure in their play, leading both in goals and assists. Kingsley Coman and Abdullah Al-Hamdan capitalized on this, scoring their goals and guiding the team to the AFC Champions League Two final.

Kingsley Coman and Angelo led Al Nassr scoring side

While fans expected a strong scoring performance from Cristiano Ronaldo, it was Kingsley Coman who stole the spotlight throughout the match. Making the most of his pace, Ângelo burst past Al-Ahli Doha’s defenders, driving into the box and delivering a pass to the Frenchman, who finished first-time to level the score just minutes after conceding an early goal.

Far from slowing down their attacking rhythm, Al Nassr found their second goal shortly after. Following a through ball from Sadio Mané in midfield, Ângelo made a run behind Al-Ahli’s defense, received the ball, and calmly slotted it across goal, beating Marwan Badreldin to put his side ahead.

After scoring his second goal in the first half, Kingsley Coman maintained his attacking sharpness in the second half. Ângelo delivered a long through pass to the French winger, who collected the ball while sprinting past the opposing defenders. After controlling it in stride, he fired a powerful shot across goal to complete his hat trick, sealing the win over Al-Ahli Doha with an outstanding display of finishing.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been in top form in recent matches, avoiding injuries and other setbacks. With this in mind, coach Jorge Jesus will opt to deploy the Portuguese star as the team’s center forward, as he remains the most productive player of the season. In addition, he could look to enter the race for the AFC Champions League 2 top scorer, as he currently has just one goal and may need to shine today.

Alongside the veteran Portuguese forward, Al Nassr will turn to João Félix, who has established himself as one of the team’s standout players, scoring four goals in the competition and 16 in the Saudi Pro League. Forming a strong attacking duo, they will aim to reach the tournament final, where they would face Gamba Osaka, potentially securing Cristiano Ronaldo’s first title with the team.

While Al Nassr arrive in top form, Al Ahli Doha are unbeaten in their last five matches, making them a side that is also in excellent shape. For this reason, head coach Younes Ali Rahmati will once again rely on Julian Draxler, who has rediscovered his form, alongside Sekou Yansané and Michel Vlap, who have emerged as the team’s leading scorers. In addition, they boast a solid defense that could make things difficult for Cristiano Ronaldo’s team.

Al Nassr lineup vs Al-Ahli Doha

Al Nassr have maintained strong form throughout the season, with only Raghid Alaa Najjar sidelined through injury. As a result, head coach Jorge Jesus has a full squad at his disposal to compete in the AFC Champions League 2. With a semifinal spot on the line, they will come in highly motivated to defeat Al-Ahli Doha, as it would bring them closer to securing their first official title of the season. Therefore, Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence will be vital.

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

Al-Ahli Doha lineup vs Al Nassr

Al-Ahli Doha have established as one of the top teams in the AFC Champions League 2, impressing throughout the tournament. In addition, head coach Younes Ali Rahmati has helped Julian Draxler rediscover his best form, making him one of the team’s standout performers. However, Michel Vlap is the team’s attacking leader as they push to reach the final, especially given their lack of form in the Qatar league, where they sit well off the top spot.

With this in mind, Al-Ahli Doha will play as follows: Marwan Badreldin; Robin Tihi, William Ekong, Ayoub Amraoui, Amidou Doumbouya; Driss Fettouhi, Ibrahima Diallo, Julian Draxler, Michel Vlap; Sekou Yansané, Erik Expósito.

According to Herrera Patón, via Mundo Deportivo, Vinicius Jr.’s recurring poor attitude toward teammates and on the pitch has left the Real Madrid dressing room frustrated. In the previous match vs. Bayern Munich, he had a clash with Jude Bellingham that exemplifies the situation. In addition, his relationship with head coach Álvaro Arbeloa has raised eyebrows, as he has become untouchable—something that could generate a degree of discomfort within the squad.

Coupled with these reported issues, Vinicius Jr. has yet to renew his contract, which runs until 2027, meaning he would soon be entering the final year of his deal. While the Brazilian remains undisputed for Los Blancos, they have not yet announced his renewal, opening the door for him to negotiate as a free agent in January 2027. With the alleged tensions and uncertainty surrounding the coach, the 25-year-old’s long-term continuity may not be entirely clear.

Despite facing serious issues this season, such as Xabi Alonso’s problems, Vinicius Jr. remains one of Real Madrid’s most important players. He not only contributes in terms of goals and creativity, but is also one of the team’s captains. For this reason, Los Blancos reportedly continue to prioritize his renewal, banking on his maturity on the pitch and his overall impact reaching even higher levels.

Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé still struggle to click at Real Madrid

In an effort to improve the overall impact of the roster, Real Madrid decided to sign Kylian Mbappé, who delivered an impressive performance in his first season. Despite this, the Frenchman has not managed to build a strong partnership with Vinicius Jr., who has seen a decline in his performance and consistency since Mbappé’s arrival. While there have been signs of improvement throughout the 2025–26 season, the duo still raises more doubts than certainties.

Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé have only combined for 6% of Real Madrid’s goals, with the Brazilian providing 12 assists to the Frenchman, while the 27-year-old striker has returned just four, as per Diario AS. This highlights their limited connection when it comes to creating scoring opportunities. Beyond the statistics, both players often get in each other’s way on the pitch, as they operate in similar areas, frequently drifting toward the left flank.

Considering his inconsistent form, issues with the fans, and tensions with teammates, the Brazilian does not seem as comfortable at Real Madrid as in previous seasons. Nevertheless, they appear determined to back his continuity, offering a contract renewal and placing their hopes on the duo improving ahead of the 2026–27 season. Moreover, they will likely have a new head coach, aiming to reshape Vinicius’ role and overall impact.

According to Calciomercato, the Reds have decided to pursue the signing of a striker to cover Hugo Ekitike’s absence, with the forward expected to be sidelined for more than nine months, missing almost the entire 2026–27 season. As a result, they have set their sights on Randal Kolo Muani, who is currently on loan at Tottenham Hotspur but belongs to PSG. With no place in the French side, he could move to Anfield, where he could play a prominent role.

While Liverpool remain interested in Kolo Muani, he is also being closely monitored by Juventus, as his performances for the team have impressed them, as per Calciomercato. However, they reportedly haven’t made a move for the Frenchman yet, as they’re focused on renewing Dusan Vlahovic’s contract. Given this, Randal could find a spot on Arne Slot’s team, playing as part of a two-man attack with Alexander Isak or as right winger.

Kolo Muani emerges as an interesting profile in the Premier League

Randal Kolo Muani has not stood out as one of the Premier League’s top strikers. Since his arrival at Tottenham Hotspur, he has struggled to shine. After making 36 appearances, he has scored five goals and provided four assists, falling behind Dominik Solanke and even Richarlison in the pecking order. However, head coach Arne Slot could still value his profile, as he is capable of playing out wide and offering tactical versatility in attack.

Far from being just a goal scorer, Randal Kolo Muani has become a highly versatile player. With his speed and ability to read the game, he is usually a starter for Tottenham Hotspur as a right winger, though he can also play as a center forward. For this reason, he would be an ideal alternative to Ekitike, as he offers the same versatility. However, PSG are reportedly not open to a loan deal, so they would have to pay at least €35 million for his transfer.

2026 World Cup offers Randal Kolo Muani a defining moment

Randal Kolo Muani has not been a regular part of Didier Deschamps’ setup with France ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Not being at his best, he has often been overtaken by Hugo Ekitike in the pecking order. With the Reds’ achilles injury, the 27-year-old striker now emerges as the favorite to replace the young forward in the anticipated tournament. As a result, he could be facing a crucial moment in defining his professional career.

In case he is called up with France, Randal would not be a starter, as Kylian Mbappé is the first-choice center forward, while Bradley Barcola, Michael Olise, and Maghnes Akliouche dominate the wide areas. However, Kolo Muani could still play an important role off the bench, needing to make the most of every minute, as he did in the 2025 UEFA Nations League. If he manages to shine, he could silence doubts surrounding his potential impact on the team.

According to Andrea Ramazzotti, via La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are aiming to strengthen their squad with a top-level striker if they secure a spot in the UEFA Champions League. In this context, Alexander Sorloth of Atlético Madrid has emerged as a major priority, as his profile fits perfectly with the needs of head coach Massimiliano Allegri. Moreover, he could be transferred for €40M or even less.

While the Norwegian is not an undisputed starter for Los Colchoneros, he has remained one of the team’s top scorers. In the 2024–25 season, he scored 24 goals in 53 appearances, and this season he has already netted 17 goals, with several matches still to play. In addition, he maintains a strong physical presence, which could suit Serie A well, allowing him to win duels against defenders and capitalize on his powerful striking ability.

At 30 years old, Sorloth would not be a long-term signing, but rather one with immediate impact. Far from being an issue, the Rossoneri could benefit greatly, as he could make an instant difference while serving as an ideal complement to Christian Pulisic. With the Norwegian leading the line, the USMNT star would have a reliable partner for through balls and link-up play, as Alexander is accustomed to operating in a two-striker setup.

Unlike the partnership with Rafael Leao, Pulisic could bring out his best version alongside Alexander Sorloth. As the Norwegian is not a highly mobile forward, he would not clash with the USMNT star, but instead serve as an ideal partner for delivering key passes and combining in tight spaces inside the box. This would ease the scoring burden on Christian, allowing him to focus on his strongest attribute—his creativity.

AC Milan may face hurdles offloading Nkunku and Gimenez

With the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, AC Milan have established as one of the top teams in Serie A. However, they have struggled to shine offensively, as Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Gimenez have failed to secure starting roles and have delivered rather disappointing performances. As a result, the Rossoneri could face difficulties selling them in the summer of 2026.

After paying €30M to Feyenoord, Santiago Gimenez arrived to be the Rossoneri’s starting striker. However, he has only made 33 appearances, scoring just seven goals, leaving fans disappointed. In addition, head coach Allegri reportedly does not count on the Mexican, meaning he would be put up for transfer. Nevertheless, his recurring injuries and underwhelming performances could make it difficult for the club to recoup the fee they paid for him.

Christopher Nkunku hasn’t managed to shine at AC Milan either. After paying Chelsea €37M, the Frenchman emerged as the team’s great hope on offense. While he managed to score 6 goals in 30 games, he failed to secure a starting spot, falling well short of expectations. As a result, the 28-year-old star has attracted little interest from other teams, leaving the Rossoneri struggling to sell him in the summer of 2026.

According to TEAMtalk, the Saudi Pro League has identified Mohamed Salah as an absolute priority, as his Islamic profile would represent a major cultural impact. While Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli had initially emerged as the most interested clubs, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr have now joined the race for the Egyptian. With all four teams backed by the Public Investment Fund, his potential transfer could spark a major bidding war.

Even though Mohamed Salah still has the level to shine in Europe, he is reportedly open to a move to Saudi Arabia, also acting as a promoter of the league. If Al Nassr were to complete his signing, they could form one of the best duos in the world, as Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah could break scoring records and lead the team to become favorites to win everything season after season.

With Kingsley Coman and Sadio Mané already in the squad, it would be quite difficult for Al Nassr to integrate Salah seamlessly. One of the current starters would likely need to lose prominence or be transferred, which would not be an easy decision. Therefore, the Egyptian might prefer a move to another Saudi Pro League side where he can be the central star—something that may not be guaranteed if he joins Cristiano Ronaldo’s team.

Al-Ittihad may emerge as leading contenders for Mohamed Salah

Throughout his career, Mohamed Salah has shown a strong desire to be the main star of his team, something that played a major role in his relationship with Sadio Mané. As a result, a move to Al Nassr could be quite difficult, as Cristiano Ronaldo is the club’s leading figure. With this in mind, Al Ittihad could emerge as the favorites to pursue his signing, as they have a significant gap to fill in their squad.

Following the departures of N’Golo Kanté and Karim Benzema, they have considerable room in their wage structure to make an offer to Mohamed Salah. In addition, he could become the team’s main attacking star, partnering Youssef En-Nesyri in attack, without facing major competition for his role. As a team that regularly competes for the Saudi Pro League title, the Egyptian may not hesitate to join the squad, opting against playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.

“It’s not normal. The thing is, the team relies on him a lot. And he’s a very young player. I’m really worried he’ll get injured because they play him all the time. And people say, ‘Yeah, but he’s young.’ But look at what happened with Pedri and Gavi. They have to play in a World Cup. Then you go play in a World Cup with the young guys and get injured. And coming back from an injury is tough. So I hope it doesn’t happen again,” Gullit said, via Diario AS.

At just 18 years old, Lamine already has 150 appearances for Barcelona, having spent two years as an undisputed starter in the lineup. In addition, the Spaniard has emerged as the Blaugrana’s most-used player this season, accumulating 3,657 minutes. Despite the heavy workload, he has not struggled much with injuries, with pubalgia being the issue that kept him out the longest, but he is now fully fit.

As a soccer legend, Ruud Gullit has warned about a problem previously experienced by Pedri and Gavi, who accumulated heavy minutes with both Barcelona and Spain, resulting in serious injuries that delayed their impact. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, Lamine Yamal is expected to log significant playing time with his national team. Because of this, the Blaugrana may need to give him more rest at the start of the 2026–27 season.

Roony Bardghji may be a key solution to ease Lamine Yamal workload

Since Hansi Flick’s arrival, Lamine Yamal has become one of Barcelona’s most important players. Despite this, the Spaniard carries a heavy workload that could put his physical longevity at risk, especially as he will come off the 2026 World Cup with little rest. With this in mind, the Blaugranas could find in Roony Bardghji a solution to manage the 18-year-old star’s minutes.

After arriving from Copenhagen for €2.5M, Roony Bardghji became one of Barcelona’s most promising players. In his first season, he has played just 616 minutes under Hansi Flick. However, the Swede could be key in giving Lamine rest at the start of the 2026–27 season, allowing him to recover physically after the World Cup. With his dribbling and pace, he could earn more playing time, making this his best opportunity.

If he does not get minutes at the start of the season, Roony could leave the Blaugrana, who are reportedly open to loaning him out so he can gain regular playing time. Despite this, they are not willing to let him leave permanently, as they trust his long-term potential. With this in mind, preseason and the opening matches will define his future—if he is not used to ease Lamine’s workload, he could depart the team.

“That’s definitely my plan. I’ve said it, and I’m 100% honest: This is going to be the final step in my career. Right now, I feel great. I’d like to renew my contract… I want to be the manager in this stadium when it’s finished. I always say that I give my all, along with my entire staff, for this club; I’m very happy with how things work here — it’s a second family, there’s a lot of energy,” Hansi Flick said in the latest press conference.

Recognizing his importance and impact on the team, Barcelona have decided to ensure Hansi Flick’s continued leadership, as President Joan Laporta confirmed that the coach will remain as long as he desires. Although the German coach has yet to secure a Champions League title, he has crafted a competitive sporting project poised for long-term dominance, with several promising players at the forefront.

Under Hansi Flick, Los Blaugranas have remained the most dominant team in La Liga. With a nine-point lead over Real Madrid, Barcelona are closing in on their second consecutive league title, solidifying their reputation as the most consistent team. Despite well-known defensive issues, they have excelled with their powerful offense and relentless high press, leaving opponents with few options—a trend that appears likely to continue for years to come.

Hansi Flick identifies Barcelona’s key gap for Champions League

Hansi Flick managed to lead Barcelona to their first Champions League semifinal in six years, but they were defeated by Inter Milan. Far from improving their performance in the current 2025–26 season, they were eliminated by Atlético Madrid, showing defensive weaknesses in both editions. In response, the German coach has revealed the two key factors needed for the Blaugrana to improve their performance in the competition.

“I think that at this point, in March, toward the end of the season, it’s important to have all players available…That’s what we are learning: we need players who are capable of leading the team on the pitch. It’s not just about talking in training, but also on the field, in a semifinal or in the quarterfinals. We need players who show where to go on the pitch. We have a young team, and we need to teach some players how to do this,” Flick said in the latest press conference.

At key moments of the season, the Blaugranas often falter both defensively and offensively, a tendency Flick attributes to their youthfulness. Consequently, they may look to sign players capable of performing under intense pressure and begin preparing Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and Pedri to assume key roles in decisive situations. In this context, the arrival of Julián Álvarez would be pivotal, as he has already secured both the Champions League and World Cup titles.

According to Manuel Bruna, via Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid already approached José Mourinho in December 2025, when they dismissed Xabi Alonso, seeking for him to take charge of the team. However, he rejected the proposal, focusing on finishing the season with Benfica. Following their Champions League elimination, Arbeloa’s future is now in doubt, with the Portuguese manager once again emerging as a real option for the summer of 2026.

Far from being a certainty, Los Blancos have not yet contacted Mourinho again, raising doubts about whether it is a concrete possibility. Nevertheless, the veteran coach would be open to listening to a potential proposal from Real Madrid, as he maintains an excellent relationship with president Florentino Pérez. Additionally, the Portuguese’s return does not generate full consensus within the front office, which further complicates his potential arrival.

With a few months still ahead, Real Madrid may still be considering the possibility of reaching an agreement with Mourinho, hoping he can turn the team’s fortunes around. Furthermore, his experience is key, as Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa failed to impress due to their youth and lack of experience. However, the Portuguese coach is under contract with SL Benfica until June 2027, so his departure could prove somewhat complicated.

Report: Real Madrid coaching shortlist led by Pochettino and Deschamps

Despite his short time at Real Madrid, Álvaro Arbeloa is reportedly highly appreciated by the squad, who support his continuity. However, The Athletic claims that the Spaniard will be dismissed at the end of the season. In response, Los Blancos are reportedly considering Mauricio Pochettino and Didier Deschamps as clear candidates to take over the head coach position for the 2026–27 season.

According to Mario Cortegana, via The Athletic, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino is highly regarded by Real Madrid’s front office. In addition, president Florentino Pérez greatly admires him, and with his contract set to expire after the 2026 World Cup. Alongside the Argentine, Didier Deschamps is also highly valued for his excellent impact with France and his vast experience in managing strong personalities within the dressing room.

“There has been no real progression, so I cannot say anything new about my contract situation… As you guys know, my contract ends in 2028, so I am ready to go every day, every week, and then let’s see… Of course I see myself here in the long term, but it is not really in my hands any more… I love being here. I love the fans… We have five games to go. Then I am going to rest – a big one, after my international break. Then we will see,” Szoboszlai said after the latest game.

While Dominik Szoboszlai is an attacking midfielder, he has also played as a right-back, central midfielder, and even as a right winger, excelling in all of them. In 48 matches this season, the Hungarian has recorded 12 goals and 9 assists. As a result, he stands as the team’s second-highest scorer, alongside Mohamed Salah, and the second-highest assist provider, highlighting his significant impact at Liverpool.

Following the departures of Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson, Szoboszlai has emerged as a clear candidate to take on a greater leadership role in the dressing room. In fact, Virgil van Dijk has already made it clear that the Hungarian would be one of his top choices to become the next captain in the near future. Therefore, Liverpool appear determined to move closer in negotiations with Dominik and establish him as a cornerstone of their sporting project.

Dominik Szoboszlai may be tempted to join Real Madrid

Throughout his professional career, Dominik Szoboszlai has consistently been monitored by Real Madrid, being regarded as a game-changing player. While the Hungarian is currently a Liverpool star, Los Blancos are reportedly keeping a close eye on his contractual situation, considering him as a potential signing. In addition, Hungary’s head coach, Marco Rossi, acknowledged that the 25-year-old star has a dream of playing for the Spanish side.

“Due to the very close and direct relationship I have with Dominik Szoboszlai since he started playing soccer as a child, Real Madrid has always been his dream. Dominik, since he began playing soccer, has had only one dream: to play for Real Madrid,” Marco Rossi revealed a few months ago. With this in mind, Los Blancos could have an advantage in persuading the Hungarian in the event of a potential transfer.

Holding a contract until 2028, Liverpool have a significant advantage in securing his continued tenure, potentially offering him a key role in the roster and a substantial salary boost. With Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Guler in the mix, the 25-year-old midfielder might not play a pivotal role within that group, a position he nearly secures with the Reds. For this reason, Dominik might opt to renew his contract in the coming months.

“We certainly have room for improvement in La Liga in recent years. In these past few months, I think we’ve performed better in the big, difficult games than against lesser opponents,” Arbeloa said after the latest game. He then delved deeper into the struggles with referees: “But we’ve also experienced situations like [the penalty appeal] in the Girona game, which make it easier for Real Madrid to win a Champions League than La Liga.“

Over the past few seasons, Real Madrid have firmly established as one of the most dominant teams in the Champions League. Not only do they consistently reach the latter stages, but they have also won the title multiple times in recent years. Despite this, they have struggled to win LaLiga, often being outperformed by Barcelona. Beyond any claims of refereeing errors, this highlights a clear issue for Los Blancos: A lack of consistency.

Since the 2004–05 season, Real Madrid have won the league title on 7 occasions, with their most recent triumph coming in the 2023–24 campaign. In contrast, Barcelona hold a clear edge, having accumulated 12 LaLiga titles, including several consecutive wins that underline their dominance. As a competition that rewards consistency over the course of a season, Los Blancos have fallen short in securing it, despite later shining in the Champions League.

Real Madrid slump continue as another trophyless season looms

Real Madrid are not going through one of the best periods in their history. While they began the season with high ambitions, the dismissal of Xabi Alonso and their exit from the Champions League completely defined their campaign. Moreover, they are no longer in contention to win LaLiga, as Barcelona have emerged as the leaders. As a result, they are now heading toward a second consecutive season without winning any titles.

With limited chances of winning LaLiga, Los Blancos are approaching a second consecutive season without titles, something that has not happened since the 2004–05 and 2005–06 seasons. In response, Arbeloa was highly critical: “Real Madrid is a club where things usually go well. The mentality of this club is always to look to the future. At Real Madrid, losing isn’t acceptable… We have to win our seven remaining matches,” he said after the latest game.

While Álvaro Arbeloa blames refereeing mistakes, Los Blancos face a harsh reality: they need radical changes within the team. Winning the Champions League is not the only objective—they must also compete consistently in LaLiga, something they clearly need to improve. With a managerial change all but certain, they are aiming to start fresh and seek to establish dominance in the league as well.

According to Diario Sport, PSG are keeping Bradley Barcola’s contract renewal an absolute priority, as his current deal runs until June 2028. However, negotiations are not progressing smoothly, as the change of agent from Jorge Mendes to Moussa Sissoko, the same agent of Ousmane Dembélé, has slowed the process. Because of this, the Frenchman’s future at the club is not entirely secure, despite being a key player on the sporting side.

Looking for a new direction, his agent, Moussa Sissoko, has decided to offer him as a marquee signing to Barcelona, making it clear that there is an open door for a potential departure from PSG. In response, sporting director Deco keeps him high on his list of priorities, as his ability to perform on both wings is highly valued. However, the French side could demand at least €80 million for his transfer, something difficult for the Blaugrana, according to Diario Sport.

While Barcola is attracting interest in Barcelona, Moussa Sissoko is not an agent with strong relations with the club. After Dembélé’s departure, they were left quite dissatisfied with his handling of the situation, so this process could be approached with caution. As a result, the Blaugrana may look to avoid being used as leverage to increase his value and secure a renewal with PSG, something that has already happened on several occasions.

Bradley Barcola may be an ideal fit for Liverpool

With Mohamed Salah’s confirmed departure and Hugo Ekitike’s serious injury, Liverpool urgently need to bring in attacking reinforcements for the 2026-27 season. With this in mind, they are reportedly targeting Yan Diomande as a marquee signing, but his arrival appears complicated. Because of this, Bradley Barcola’s contractual situation could facilitate his move, as he would be an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s team.

According to CaughtOffSide, the Reds are closely monitoring Barcola’s situation and are prepared to pursue his signing. A quick, dribbling, and highly effective goal scorer, the Frenchman would be an ideal replacement for Salah. In addition, he could fit alongside Diomande, as he is capable of playing on both wings, which would add valuable versatility to the squad. If he continues to reject a renewal with PSG, the Reds could make him a priority.

Not only Liverpool are pursuing his signing, but also Arsenal. According to David Ornstein, the Gunners are also keeping the Frenchman as a priority for the summer of 2026, as he is seen as a game-changer. With this in mind, Bradley Barcola could either push PSG for a lucrative renewal or simply force his departure from the club.

“There are many things people have said but for a long time we have spoken with the club and we are close to an agreement. I think everyone wished for that for as long as possible but we are in a good way. For sure there is a big chance I’m here next season…I’m waiting to sort the contract but when everything is sorted you will have to ask Richard what I said to him in September, November and he’s going to say something to make everyone quiet,” Konaté said, after the latest game.

With his contract renewal now quite close, Ibrahima Konaté is moving away from Real Madrid, who are reportedly searching for a reliable defender. While the Frenchman was considered a strong option, Los Blancos were not fully convinced by his high salary demands. In addition, the 26-year-old has established as a leader in defense alongside Virgil van Dijk, becoming a key figure for Arne Slot at Liverpool FC as they build for the future.

Following Konaté’s refusal, Real Madrid will be forced to look elsewhere, with Nico Schlotterbeck still on their radar. Despite recently renewing with Borussia Dortmund, the German reportedly has a €50–60M clause valid for both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Alongside him, the potential return of Jacobo Ramón or a move for Cristian Romero remain alternative options, further reducing the chances of Ibrahima’s arrival.

Ibrahima Konate lined up as Van Dijk’s successor at Liverpool

Liverpool are not experiencing their best season, having been eliminated from the UEFA Champions League and struggling in the Premier League. While Ibrahima Konaté has shown inconsistent performances at times, he has managed to regain form and has emerged as an undisputed starter for Arne Slot. Following progress in his contract renewal talks, the French defender is now seen as the long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.

While van Dijk is still an undisputed starter for the Reds, he is reportedly set to leave the club in 2027. As a result, Ibrahima Konaté is emerging as his successor in terms of leadership at the back, especially with young defenders like Giovanni Leoni and Jérémy Jacquet still developing, and Joe Gomez also expected to be sold. In addition, the Frenchman has proven to be one of the most impactful players in the squad, leaving the team in capable hands defensively.