Milan entered the meeting with Benfica unbeaten domestically, having collected two wins and two draws in the opening four Serie A matches. The Europa League therefore offered Amorim’s side a different challenge, with Benfica arriving at San Siro after a strong start under new manager Marco Silva.

The USMNT forward was initially expected to play a major role in Amorim’s plans, particularly after making his first appearance of the season during the comeback against Lazio. Instead, the 27-year-old began the match at the San Siro on the bench before being introduced during the game, giving him another opportunity to show that he is ready to contribute following his difficult summer.

The record is finally revealed

This is where Pulisic’s achievement becomes particularly unusual. The Milan forward has now appeared in elite European continental competition for 11 consecutive seasons, covering the UEFA Champions League and Europa League without a break.

Even more impressively, that run has been maintained across three different clubs in three different countries: Borussia Dortmund in Germany, Chelsea in England and Milan in Italy. That makes the accomplishment considerably different from players who spent their entire streak at clubs that qualified for Europe almost every season.

Pulisic’s participation in Milan’s Europa League squad, according to Opta and UEFA, merely meant that he would undoubtedly extend the record to an 11th consecutive season, and his appearance on the field only confirmed it. The sequence began in 2015-16, when the American made three Europa League appearances for Dortmund. He then moved through Champions League campaigns with the German side and Chelsea before continuing the streak with Milan.

From Dortmund to Chelsea and Milan

The significance of Pulisic’s latest European appearance becomes clearer when looking back at where his journey began. He first appeared in UEFA’s elite club competitions as a teenager with Borussia Dortmund during the 2015-16 season, featuring in the Europa League against Porto at just 17 years old.

That campaign marked the beginning of an uninterrupted run through European competition. Pulisic subsequently became a regular Champions League player with Dortmund before moving to Chelsea, where he eventually lifted the Champions League trophy in 2021.

His move to Italy in 2023 added another country and another major chapter to the story. The Serie A giant immediately gave him a platform in the Champions League, and now his inclusion in the 2026-27 Europa League campaign has ensured that the streak continues.

Pulisic enters rare company

Pulisic’s achievement puts him alongside several legendary players who managed 11 or more consecutive European seasons, while changing clubs and countries. Zlatan Ibrahimovic compiled a 14-season Champions League streak from 2001-02 through 2014-15, playing for clubs including Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.

Robert Lewandowski has also maintained a continuous European presence from 2011-12 through the current 2026-27 campaign, representing Dortmund, Bayern Munich and Barcelona. His streak has now reached 16 seasons, illustrating the extraordinary longevity required to remain involved in elite continental football year after year.

Other players have produced even longer runs, including Arjen Robben and Mateo Kovacic, but Pulisic’s particular achievement stands out because of the combination of 11 consecutive seasons, three clubs, and three countries.

Ronaldo’s trip comes shortly after Al-Nassr suffered a 4-0 defeat to Al-Ain in the opening match of the continental competition. The result was the heaviest defeat Ronaldo has experienced since moving to Saudi Arabia, adding to the pressure surrounding the Saudi outfit after a recent dip in form.

According to MousaQi on X (formerly Twitter)and Portuguese outlet A Bola, the experienced forward is spending five days in Madrid during a brief personal break before linking up with Portugal. The update, attributed to sources close to the situation and shared by the account, comes as Ronaldo prepares to switch from club responsibilities to international duty.

Madrid is a particularly meaningful destination for the Portuguese star. Ronaldo spent nine years with Real Madrid, establishing himself as the club’s all-time leading scorer and winning four UEFA Champions League titles during his extraordinary spell in the Spanish capital.

The short break gives Ronaldo an opportunity to recharge following a hectic period with Al-Nassr. The Saudi club has already begun its domestic campaign and AFC Champions League Elite journey, leaving the veteran forward with little time between competitive fixtures.

Portugal return date emerges

The latest update states that Ronaldo is scheduled to return to Portugal training next Monday, when preparations for the UEFA Nations League will begin. That date provides a clear indication of when the forward will move his focus back to the national team after his time in Madrid.

Portugal’s Nations League campaign begins in League A Group A4, giving Ronaldo another opportunity to represent the national team during a season that could prove significant at this stage of his career. The schedule starts with a home meeting with Wales before Portugal travels to Norway several days later.

The Selecao das Quinas will then face Denmark on October 1 before hosting Norway again on October 4. Further fixtures against Denmark and Wales are scheduled for November, giving the national team a packed autumn calendar.

Demanding period for Ronaldo

The timing of the break comes after an especially difficult night for Ronaldo and Al-Nassr. Al-Ain scored four times through Houssine Rahimi, Soufiane Rahimi and Georgios Giakoumakis, while Ronaldo struggled to influence the match as his side was comprehensively beaten.

Ronaldo attempted five shots during the defeat, but three were blocked, one went off target, and only one required a save from Al-Ain goalkeeper Khalid Eisa. The result also extended a difficult spell for Al-Nassr, which had managed only one victory in its previous four matches across all competitions.

The forward will now have the chance to reset before returning to the international environment. Portugal remains a major part of Ronaldo’s career, even as questions naturally continue to surround how long he intends to keep playing at the highest level.

Mbappe scored in Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Elche on September 15, 2026, finally finding the net against the only La Liga opponent he had previously faced without scoring. The goal came in the 33rd minute, when Yan Diomande’s cross found the Frenchman, who squeezed his finish past goalkeeper Matias Dituro despite colliding painfully with the goalkeeper.

Elche had previously held Mbappe to a goalless outing, including a 2-2 draw during the 2025-26 season. That changed at the Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero, with Mbappe not only scoring but later creating the decisive goal for substitute Carlos Espi in stoppage time.

With that strike, the Frenchman has now scored against all 23 La Liga teams he has faced since joining the Bernabeu outfit from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024. The list includes Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Athletic Club, Sevilla, Valencia, Villarreal, Real Sociedad, Real Betis, Celta Vigo and the other opponents he has encountered during his first years in Spain.

There is one important caveat. Mbappe has yet to face newly promoted Deportivo de La Coruña or Racing Santander in the 2026-27 campaign, meaning his list could grow before the season is over.

So, how many seasons did Mbappe need?

Mbappe completed his current 23-team scoring set at the start of his third La Liga season. He joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024, scored 31 league goals in his first campaign and followed that with another 25 in 2025-26 before reaching seven goals in his first six league appearances this season.

That means the 27-year-old needed three La Liga seasons, including the opening part of his third, to score against every opponent he had actually faced. His overall league return has been extraordinary, with 63 La Liga goals across those campaigns and 94 goals in 110 appearances for Los Blancos in all competitions by mid-September 2026.

Ronaldo’s remarkable comparison

Cristiano Ronaldo took a different route during his Real Madrid career. The Portuguese superstar needed three La Liga seasons to complete his own scoring set, achieving the feat during the 2011-12 campaign after arriving in Spain in 2009.

Ronaldo’s achievement became even more remarkable because he scored against all 19 opposing teams in a single La Liga season during 2011-12. Over his entire nine-season spell in Spain, he eventually scored against all 31 different La Liga teams he encountered.

That means both superstars required three seasons to reach the milestone, although the circumstances were different because the league’s list of opponents changed throughout Ronaldo’s nine-year spell. Ronaldo also had the advantage of facing some opponents multiple times before completing his full set.

Two extraordinary scoring records

Ronaldo’s 2011-12 campaign remains one of the most spectacular individual seasons in La Liga history. He scored 46 league goals that season as Real Madrid won the title, while his ability to find the net against every opponent highlighted how consistently dangerous he was regardless of the opposition.

Mbappe’s route has been similarly relentless. He won the Pichichi Trophy in each of his first two La Liga seasons, becoming the first player since Mario Kempes in the 1970s to win the award in both of his first two campaigns in Spain.

Mbappe is now chasing a third consecutive Pichichi, while his latest goal also moved him closer to another major personal milestone. The France captain has 94 goals for Real Madrid, leaving him only six goals short of 100 for the club.

The UAE side dominated from the opening stages, with Houssine Rahimi scoring twice before his brother Soufiane Rahimi and Georgios Giakoumakis completed the rout. For Ronaldo, now 41, it was the heaviest defeat he has suffered since joining Saudi soccer in 2023 and his worst result since Manchester United’s 4-0 loss to Brentford in August 2022.

Al-Nassr arrived in the United Arab Emirates with a squad packed with star names, but the Saudi Pro League champion struggled to make an impression against the two-time Asian champion. Houssine Rahimi opened the scoring in the 25th minute, doubling his tally shortly after halftime before Soufiane Rahimi added a third with 18 minutes remaining.

Giakoumakis then put the result beyond any doubt in the 85th minute, leaving Al-Nassr facing a difficult start to its continental campaign. Ronaldo attempted to provide a response, including an overhead kick and a late free-kick, but Al-Ain goalkeeper Khalid Eisa dealt comfortably with his best effort.

The Portuguese forward finished with five shots, although three were blocked, one went off target, and only one required a save. Just three of his 29 touches came inside the penalty area, underlining how effectively Al-Ain managed to keep him away from dangerous positions.

Postecoglou takes responsibility

The defeat also produced a strong response from Postecoglou, who refused to blame his players for the performance. The Australian coach instead accepted responsibility for what had gone wrong on the night. “The players gave everything they had, and I do not place any responsibility on them… and the responsibility is my responsibility,” the manager said after the final whistle.

The manager was equally direct when assessing the collective display, adding: “Al-Nassr as a whole was poor.” His comments came after a difficult run in which Al-Nassr had recorded one win, one draw and two defeats in its previous four matches.

Postecoglou also defended Ronaldo when journalists questioned the forward’s contribution. He pointed to Ronaldo’s three Saudi Pro League goals and the limited preparation he had following the World Cup, while insisting that the veteran remained an example to his teammates.

Urgent meeting makes Al-Nassr’s position clear

The heavy defeat prompted Al-Nassr management to hold an urgent meeting with Postecoglou, according to 365Scores Arabic. The discussions reportedly examined the technical errors against Al-Ain, the team’s recent decline, and the immediate measures required to improve performances.

Crucially, however, the reports state that Postecoglou has not asked to resign or terminate his contract. Claims of disagreements between the Australian and Al-Nassr’s executive management over his future were also described as false, making the club’s immediate position considerably clearer.

The meeting therefore appears to have been focused on finding solutions rather than preparing for a change in the dugout. Postecoglou joined Al-Nassr in July on a two-year contract, replacing Jorge Jesus after the club won the Saudi Pro League for the first time during Ronaldo’s era.

The Portuguese superstar endured a frustrating evening as Al-Nassr was beaten 4-0 by Al-Ain on September 15, leaving the club at the bottom of the Western region’s league-stage standings after the opening round. Ronaldo managed five shots but only one tested goalkeeper Khalid Eisa, while his attempts to influence the contest repeatedly came to nothing.

Al-Nassr’s night in the United Arab Emirates quickly turned into a nightmare. Houssine Rahimi opened the scoring after 25 minutes before doubling Al-Ain’s advantage, while Soufiane Rahimi and Georgios Giakoumakis completed the rout in the second half.

The result represented Ronaldo’s heaviest defeat since moving to the Middle East and his biggest loss since Manchester United suffered a 4-0 defeat against Brentford in August 2022. The setback also added to a difficult spell for the Knight of Najd, which had managed only one victory in its previous four matches across all competitions.

The 41-year-old was visibly frustrated during the contest, including an incident with Al-Ain midfielder Matías Palacios. The Portuguese appeared to use his elbow while attempting to escape Palacios’ challenge, although neither player was punished for the confrontation.

Saudi pundit delivers brutal Ronaldo verdict

The defeat was especially damaging because Al-Nassr entered the new campaign with major ambitions after finally winning the Saudi Pro League title in 2025-26, Ronaldo’s first league championship with the club. The AFC Champions League, however, remains a trophy that has escaped Al-Nassr during his time in Saudi Arabia.

That disappointment has now been followed by a much bigger question surrounding Ronaldo’s future. Former Al-Nassr spokesman and Saudi sports journalist Saud Al-Sarami has suggested that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner could leave the club during the January transfer window.

Speaking during a discussion on Al-Arabiya FM, Al-Sarami delivered a particularly strong assessment, saying: “Cristiano has become an exhausted asset at Al-Nassr.” He also claimed that Ronaldo would not play a role in addressing the club’s technical problems during the winter window.

Al-Sarami went even further when discussing a possible departure, stating: “I do not rule out that he may leave the club in the winter transfer window, just as happened with Karim Benzema earlier, and this will happen entirely at his own desire.”

Ronaldo’s future comes into focus

The speculation arrives at an intriguing point in Ronaldo’s career. He has continued to produce goals since moving to Saudi Arabia, but the current season has already brought frustration, while Al-Nassr’s limited activity in the summer transfer market has raised questions about the squad around him.

The club made only one major signing during the recent window, bringing in Portuguese midfielder Samu Costa, amid reported financial constraints. Ronaldo has previously shown frustration when he believes Al-Nassr’s squad requires strengthening, making the club’s ability to compete for major trophies an important factor in his future.

There is also the question of Ronaldo’s own ambitions. The forward has already indicated that 2026-27 could be his final professional season, telling Vogue last month: “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.”

Milan enters its European campaign unbeaten in Serie A after two wins and two draws, although the last two matches ended in draws against Juventus and Lazio. The comeback from 2-0 down against Lazio was particularly significant, with Diego Moreira scoring twice and Pulisic providing the spark after coming off the bench.

Pulisic made his first appearance of the season in Rome and immediately reminded Milan of what he can offer in the attacking midfield. His clever movement helped disrupt Lazio’s defensive structure, while his contribution to Moreira’s first goal showed the type of link-up play Amorim wants from his attacking players.

That performance initially appeared to strengthen the case for the 27-year-old forward to start against Benfica. Earlier reports even suggested that the American would finally return to the XI alongside Alphadjo Cisse behind Goncalo Ramos, who faces his former club.

Amorim’s plans changed dramatically

The latest team news, however, points in a different direction. Sky Italia and MilanNews reported that Amorim is preparing a heavily rotated Milan side for the Europa League opener, with Pulisic starting on the bench alongside Diego Moreira.

Omari Hutchinson will instead make his first start, joining Cisse behind Ramos in the 3-4-2-1 formation. Yunus Musah and Ardon Jashari are also set to come into midfield, while Filippo Terracciano and Davide Bartesaghi could receive opportunities from the start.

The change means Pulisic will have to wait for another opportunity from the bench, despite appearing to have earned a starting role with his Lazio performance. It also highlights just how much competition exists in the Rossoneri’s attacking positions, with Hutchinson, Cisse, Moreira and Pulisic all pushing for minutes.

The reason behind Pulisic’s absence

There is an important explanation behind Amorim’s cautious handling of Pulisic, and it goes back to the American’s difficult summer. Pulisic suffered a microfracture around his tibia during the United States’ World Cup campaign and then encountered another setback when he returned to Milan training. The Portuguese boss previously explained the situation clearly: “He had an injury in the summer, and then in the first training session he took a knock and stopped.”

That history helps explain why Pulisic was left unused during the club’s opening three Serie A matches, despite being included in the squad. The coach has repeatedly stressed that he will not rush a player back simply because of his reputation. “I won’t remove anyone who is doing well just to put a ‘name’ on the field. This is my way of managing the group,” Amorim added.

The decision to leave the USMNT star on the bench against Benfica should therefore be viewed alongside Amorim’s wider comments about the player. The Portuguese coach has made it clear that he values Pulisic and expects him to become an important part of Milan’s season.

Pulisic responded positively when he finally received his opportunity against Lazio. His first assist of the season, combined with his movement and attacking intelligence, gave Amorim another reason to keep him firmly in the rotation even if the Benfica match begins with him among the substitutes.

The 34-year-old’s participation at the tournament had already been uncertain because of his fitness problems. He ultimately made only two substitute appearances, but his final tournament appearance still produced one of the most emotional moments of his international career.

Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway in the Round of 16, with Neymar scoring from the penalty spot before Norway turned the game around through Erling Haaland. Afterward, Neymar appeared to hint that his international journey was over, saying in an interview with Globoesporte TV: “I tried and tried. It’s over now. I started here and finished here.”

The defeat meant the experienced forward ended his World Cup career without winning the trophy. At 34, his decision to step away leaves Brazil facing a future without the player who had been one of the defining figures of the previous generation.

Ancelotti confirms final Neymar decision

Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar does not intend to return to the Brazil national team, bringing an end to hopes that the Santos star could make another appearance in the famous yellow shirt. The decision comes after a difficult World Cup for both player and national team, with Brazil eliminated by Norway in the Round of 16.

Speaking to CNN Esportes, Ancelotti made it clear that Neymar’s decision came from the player himself while also stressing how difficult his absence will be to overcome. “He deserved to be there because of his quality. Neymar has already confirmed that he does not want to return to the national team. Neymar cannot be replaced because he was an extraordinary and unique talent. So, an irreplaceable player,” the Italian said.

Neymar finished his Brazil career as the team’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances. He also became only the second Brazilian after Pele to score at four different World Cups, appearing at the tournaments in 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026.

Ancelotti reveals Brazil’s new direction

With Neymar’s decision confirmed, Ancelotti has outlined a different path for Brazil. The manager and national team director Rodrigo Caetano are beginning a rebuilding process focused heavily on developing players who can form the core of the squad heading toward the 2030 World Cup.

Ancelotti explained that the next phase will place greater emphasis on younger players rather than attempting to recreate the previous generation. “I think we need to proceed step by step. Now we need to focus on the young players who could be the future, the players born in 2004, 2005, and 2006,” he said.

The coach also pointed toward an even younger group already attracting attention. “We have young players born in 2008 with a lot of quality, who aren’t playing yet, but who can play. Now is the time to look at them, taking their age into account and respecting it,” Ancelotti added.

Brazil wants stronger team identity

The shift goes beyond simply replacing Neymar with another attacking player. Ancelotti wants Brazil to develop a collective identity in which the team’s structure and cooperation matter more than relying on one individual to produce a decisive moment.

“Of course, if you have great individual talent, you have a greater chance of winning, but modern football doesn’t tolerate a lack of teamwork,” Ancelotti said. “We are working to build a strong team for the future, not to rely on a single great individual talent.”

That philosophy could become increasingly visible during the upcoming international break. Brazil is scheduled to face Australia twice and India once, giving Ancelotti opportunities to assess emerging players and determine which ones can become important pieces of the next cycle.

The potential takeover is part of broader privatization discussions surrounding Al-Nassr. According to A Bola and other Saudi reports, Ronaldo is part of a five-investor consortium negotiating to acquire a stake in the Saudi club. The group reportedly includes Gerry Cardinale, the founder of RedBird Capital Partners and owner of Milan, alongside Ronaldo and three Saudi investors.

The consortium is said to be negotiating with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which currently holds the majority of Al-Nassr. No final agreement has been announced, and the reported investment figures and ownership percentages remain unconfirmed. The negotiations therefore remain a developing story rather than a completed takeover.

Ronaldo’s relationship with Al-Nassr could already extend beyond his playing contract. Various reports have claimed that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner holds a minority stake in the club, with figures around 5% frequently cited, although reports have differed over the exact percentage.

The Portuguese forward has also been building a growing portfolio of soccer investments. In February 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% stake in Spanish second-tier club Almería, adding another major soccer ownership interest to his business activities.

Ronaldo could have another bigger role at Al-Nassr

According to 365Scores Arabic, the proposed arrangement could allow Ronaldo to hold an ownership stake in Al-Nassr while also taking an executive position within the soccer department. The role would be focused on the first team and sporting operations rather than giving Ronaldo responsibility for running the entire club.

The report claims there is currently no fundamental obstacle to combining the two positions, although that could change if the relevant authorities introduce specific conditions. The takeover itself also remains under negotiation, meaning the final structure could still look different from the current proposal.

The guarantees surrounding the anticipated acquisition are reportedly still being finalized. Meanwhile, the leading candidate for the club presidency is said to be willing to inject funds for the upcoming season, but only if he receives an ownership stake in exchange for the financing.

The proposed roles are more specific than CEO

The reports do not suggest Ronaldo would become Al-Nassr’s CEO or take control of the club’s overall administration. Instead, his potential executive position would be specifically connected to soccer operations and the first team.

That distinction is important because it would allow Ronaldo to remain closely involved with sporting decisions without becoming responsible for every aspect of the club. If the proposal is approved, the arrangement would create an unusual situation in which an active player also has a formal influence over the soccer department.

The Portuguese’s current contract with Al-Nassr runs into 2027, meaning such an arrangement could potentially overlap with the latter stages of his playing career. It could also give him a pathway toward a more formal position within the club once his playing days eventually come to an end.

If the proposal eventually becomes reality, Ronaldo would occupy an unusual position in modern soccer. He could remain an active Al-Nassr player while simultaneously holding an ownership stake and a specialized soccer executive role.

With voting approaching its conclusion, the competition for soccer’s most prestigious individual award has become increasingly intense. France Football released the 30-player shortlist on September 8, with the winner set to be announced at the ceremony in London on October 26.

The timing is especially significant because the 2025-26 season included both the Champions League and the 2026 World Cup, giving candidates opportunities to strengthen their cases on the biggest stages. The Africa Cup of Nations will also be considered, adding another major international tournament to the equation. Yamal finished runner-up to Ousmane Dembele in 2025 and has since developed into one of the leading contenders for the prize.

His 2025-26 campaign included 26 goals and 21 assists, while Barcelona won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, and Spain lifted the World Cup. The 19-year-old has been increasingly vocal about his Ballon d’Or ambitions, and one recent interview provided a revealing glimpse into how he views the competition.

Rather than discussing every major contender, Yamal narrowed the conversation considerably. “For me, Mbappe and I, we’re the two best players in the world,” the Spaniard told Movistar Plus. “I honestly think that, as the best in the world, maybe there are two of us, and this year I deserve it because of what I’ve won.”

Yamal’s clever Ballon d’Or strategy is revealed

According to French journalist Walid Acherchour, Yamal’s decision to frame the race as a contest between himself and Mbappe could be deliberate. The journalist believes the Barcelona star understands that reducing the number of serious alternatives could strengthen his own position.

“Lamine Yamal has understood everything. He wants to make the Ballon d’Or debate about him and Kylian Mbappe,” Acherchour explained on X (formerly Twiter). “He wants to take the PSG players and Harry Kane OUT of the debate.”

That would mean placing Dembele and Kane outside the main narrative, leaving Yamal and Mbappe as the two dominant names in the public conversation. Acherchour believes Yamal could see that head-to-head comparison as particularly favorable to his own case because of his combination of individual performances, trophies, World Cup success and popularity.

“He knows that Ousmane Dembele and Harry Kane are dangers to him,” the journalist added. “It’s very good communication from Lamine Yamal because he’s thinking: ‘If it’s me against Mbappé, I’m going to WIN the Ballon d’Or.’ That’s my opinion. I’m convinced of it.”

Why Mbappe is the obvious rival

Mbappe has arguably the most eye-catching individual statistical case among the leading contenders. His 10 World Cup goals earned him the Golden Boot, while his 22 career World Cup goals moved him past the competition’s greatest historical scorers.

His case is also strengthened by his performances for Real Madrid throughout the season. Even without major team trophies, Mbappe produced extraordinary individual numbers and became the leading scorer across several of soccer’s biggest competitions.

That creates an intriguing contrast with Yamal. Mbappe can point to overwhelming individual production, while Yamal can point to major trophies with both Barcelona and Spain, alongside his own attacking numbers.

The Frenchman enjoyed an extraordinary season, finishing as the top scorer in La Liga, the Champions League and the 2026 World Cup. Mbappe scored 58 goals and provided 13 assists in 61 matches for club and country, while his 10 World Cup goals earned him the Golden Boot. That tournament also took his career World Cup tally to 22 goals, making him the competition’s all-time leading scorer according to the supplied figures.

Those numbers give the Frenchman a compelling argument even without major team silverware. His challenge is that Kane and Yamal have built equally strong cases, meaning even a spectacular individual campaign may not guarantee victory.

Real Madrid has plan for Mbappe

Real Madrid is reportedly preparing to use its enormous influence to strengthen Mbappe’s case in the weeks leading up to the Ballon d’Or ceremony. According to L’Equipe, the club could call upon former legends and prominent figures connected with Madrid to publicly explain why its current superstar deserves the individual prize.

Those voices could appear in interviews, television appearances and conversations with supporters, creating a sustained message around Mbappe’s achievements. The strategy would keep the Frenchman at the center of the Ballon d’Or debate as voters make their final assessments.

Madrid has used this approach before, and that is where Cristiano Ronaldo’s successful 2013 Ballon d’Or campaign becomes particularly relevant. The club reportedly believes the same type of coordinated support could once again help its leading candidate in an extremely competitive race.

How Ronaldo provided the blueprint

The clearest example came in 2013, when Madrid figures including Alfredo Di Stefano, Emilio Butragueno, Carlo Ancelotti, Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos publicly backed Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward was competing against Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben after a season in which Bayern had won the Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup.

Ronaldo, meanwhile, had not won a major team trophy that year. Madrid instead placed enormous emphasis on his individual achievements, helping ensure his performances remained at the heart of the discussion.

The strategy ultimately worked. Ronaldo won the 2013 Ballon d’Or with 27.99% of the vote, finishing ahead of Lionel Messi on 24.72% and Ribery on 23.36%.

Bayern also faced a different situation because Robben was another contender from the club, meaning Ribery did not have the same unified institutional backing Ronaldo enjoyed. Madrid’s experience appears to be the reason the club now sees value in repeating that formula for Mbappe.

Milan enters Wednesday night’s match unbeaten after four Serie A games, collecting two wins and two draws against Torino, Venezia, Juventus and Lazio. The 2-2 comeback against Lazio was particularly significant because Amorim saw several substitutes change the game after Milan struggled during the opening half.

Pulisic was among those who made an immediate impact. After being left unused during the team’s first three Serie A matches, he entered at halftime against Lazio and supplied an assist for Diego Moreira as Milan recovered from 2-0 down.

The timing could hardly be more interesting. The Rossoneri now begin their European campaign against a Benfica side that has been scoring freely, while Amorim continues to work out which combination gives his team the best balance in attack.

Will Pulisic start against Benfica?

Despite his impressive return against Lazio, Pulisic is now expected to begin the Benfica match on the bench, as per Sky Italia. Journalist Peppe Di Stefano has revealed that Amorim is considering several changes to his XI, with Omari Hutchinson potentially operating behind Goncalo Ramos and Alphadjo Cisse also competing for a place.

That decision does not necessarily represent a setback for Pulisic. The American only recently returned from a serious World Cup injury, and Amorim has repeatedly emphasized that he will select players according to form, fitness and tactical requirements rather than reputation. Amorim said: “He picked up an injury in the summer, and then took a knock in his first training session, which set him back.”

The Portuguese coach also made his selection philosophy clear after Pulisic’s delayed start to the campaign. “I won’t drop players who are performing well just to accommodate a ‘big name’. This is how I manage the group, and I will stick to these principles.”

His Lazio cameo changed the conversation

Pulisic’s performance against Lazio nevertheless reminded everyone why Milan values him so highly. He needed only 45 minutes to register his first assist of the season, delivering a dangerous cross that Moreira converted during Milan’s second-half comeback.

Moreira eventually scored twice, while Yunus Musah also played an important role in the equalizer. The American’s contribution was particularly encouraging because it came in his first competitive appearance since the 2026 World Cup, following a microfracture around his tibia that disrupted his summer preparation.

Amorim has also suggested that Pulisic’s frustration can be a positive force. “Pulisic is important and will play many matches,” the Milan coach said, indicating that the American remains an important part of his plans despite the cautious approach to his return.

One reason Pulisic can afford to wait for another opportunity is the emergence of several alternatives. Alphadjo Cisse has impressed, Moreira announced himself with his brace against Lazio, and Hutchinson has shown enough quality since arriving from Nottingham Forest to push for meaningful minutes. That competition has given Amorim more flexibility in the attacking midfield positions.

Ronaldo entered the Al Ain match with 979 official career goals in 1,336 senior appearances for club and country. At 41 years old, the Al-Nassr forward remains firmly focused on reaching a milestone that would add another extraordinary chapter to a career already filled with records.

His goals have come across six different teams during more than two decades at the highest level. Real Madrid accounts for 450 goals, while Ronaldo has scored 146 for Portugal, 145 for Manchester United, 132 for Al-Nassr, 101 for Juventus and five for Sporting CP.

The latest Champions League fixture therefore represented another opportunity to move closer to four figures. However, Al Ain proved difficult opposition once again, with Ronaldo unable to find the net in Al-Nassr’s continental opener.

So, how many games could Ronaldo need for 1,000?

The answer depends heavily on his minutes, fitness, and scoring rate, but current projections suggest Ronaldo could need approximately 25 to 30 matches to score the 21 goals separating him from 1,000.

That projection is based on his recent scoring pace and assumes he continues playing regularly for both Al-Nassr and Portugal. If he maintains that level of availability and production, the historic 1,000th goal could arrive later in the 2026-27 season.

Ronaldo has already demonstrated that age has done little to stop his scoring. He began the current Saudi Pro League campaign with three goals in six appearances, while his most recent official goal before the Al Ain game came through a towering header in Al-Nassr’s 2-1 victory over Abha.

Ronaldo still has plenty of opportunities

Although Ronaldo failed to score in Al-Nassr’s opening Champions League match, the setback barely changes the bigger picture. With 21 goals still required and a projected 25-30 matches potentially standing between him and 1,000, there remains plenty of action ahead for the veteran forward.

Al-Nassr is competing in the AFC Champions League Elite after playing in the second-tier competition last season, giving the 41-year-old another chance to chase a major trophy that remains absent from his collection. He has already won the UEFA Champions League five times, but an AFC Champions League Elite title with Al-Nassr remains one of the major prizes missing from his club career.

The connection between the two forwards has evolved dramatically over the years. What began with a young Mbappe watching Ronaldo from afar eventually became a relationship built around mutual respect, conversations and advice, with the Frenchman now following in his idol’s footsteps at Real Madrid.

Mbappe’s admiration for Ronaldo dates back to his earliest years as a player. Famous images of the teenager in his Bondy bedroom show Ronaldo posters covering the walls, while his family has spoken about how intensely he followed the Portuguese superstar.

The relationship became even more memorable when Mbappe visited Real Madrid’s training ground as a youngster and met Ronaldo. He reportedly studied the forward’s movements closely, taking inspiration from his explosive pace, stepovers, changes of direction, and ability to combine wide attacking play with relentless goalscoring.

Ronaldo’s influence was particularly significant because he showed Mbappe what a modern forward could become. His transformation from explosive winger into one of soccer’s most prolific goalscorers offered a blueprint for a young player who wanted to develop every part of his attacking game.

Mbappe finally explains what he learned from Ronaldo

The clearest explanation of Ronaldo’s influence came when L’Equipe asked Mbappe whether the Portuguese had been his inspiration as a player. Rather than naming Ronaldo alone, Mbappe explained that his childhood idol had taught him something fundamental about what an elite striker could achieve. “Not just him, not just him. Cristiano was my childhood idol, and I think for a long time he embodied the idea that a striker can do many things; he can do so much.”

Mbappe then explained why he believes the best players learn from several sources rather than attempting to replicate one individual. “But I think that as a striker, you always try to take a little bit of the best that others have and what they excel at, because your goal in the end is to improve yourself, so that there are fewer people doing things better than you”, he added.

That distinction is important. Ronaldo was Mbappe’s childhood idol and a major influence, but Mbappe’s ambition has always been to take the strongest qualities from different players and turn them into his own game.

From posters on his wall to Real Madrid

Mbappe’s career path has also created an obvious link with his childhood hero. After emerging at Monaco and becoming a global superstar at Paris Saint-Germain, he eventually completed his long-awaited move to Real Madrid, the club where Ronaldo established himself as a legend.

Mbappe has previously acknowledged that Ronaldo influenced his view of what a career at the highest level could look like. His decision to pursue a move to Madrid carried an obvious sense of continuity, particularly given how much the Portuguese forward achieved there.

The Frenchman has also incorporated elements of the Portuguese veteran’s style into his own game. Explosive acceleration, stepovers, sharp body movements and an instinct for attacking space have all been characteristics associated with both players, although Mbappe has developed his own identity.

The figures from the CIES Football Observatory, covering transfer activity between 2022 and 2026, show Al-Hilal at the top of the global rankings. Tottenham, Manchester United and Chelsea are among the European giants sitting behind the Saudi club, while Al-Nassr also features prominently among the world’s biggest net spenders.

Al-Hilal‘s numbers are striking because the ranking measures net transfer spending, meaning money spent on incoming players after revenue generated from player sales has been deducted. Salaries are excluded, making the figures a reflection of transfer-market investment rather than the total cost of running a squad.

According to CIES Football Observatory data, Al-Hilal has spent approximately €925 million on transfers since 2022 while generating only around €52 million from player sales. That leaves the club with a staggering €873 million net outlay, the highest figure recorded by any club in the world over the five years.

The scale of that spending puts Al-Hilal ahead of Tottenham, which recorded approximately €840 million in net spending, while Manchester United followed at €831 million. Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal were also among the leading clubs, with net outlays of roughly €762 million, €745 million and €708 million respectively.

Saudi clubs dominate the spending conversation

Al-Hilal’s position reflects the transformation of the Saudi Pro League since 2022, when the country’s soccer project accelerated dramatically. The club has recruited some of the biggest names in world soccer, with Neymar, Malcom, Kalidou Koulibaly and Bono among the stars brought in during the spending boom.

The limited amount generated through player sales has also played an important role in Al-Hilal’s enormous net figure. Because the club has spent heavily while rarely recouping comparable sums from outgoing transfers, the gap between expenditure and revenue has continued to grow.

Al-Hilal is not alone in benefiting from the enormous investment flowing into Saudi soccer. Al-Ahli ranks ninth globally with around €441 million in net spending, while Al-Nassr is 10th at approximately €434 million, meaning Ronaldo’s club has also invested heavily but remains almost €439 million behind its Riyadh rival in net outlay.

Al-Nassr’s spending is still enormous

The comparison between the two Riyadh clubs is particularly revealing. Al-Nassr’s €434 million net spending is roughly half of Al-Hilal’s €873 million, yet the club remains inside the global top 10 alongside some of the most powerful teams in European soccer.

Both clubs have benefited from the wider Public Investment Fund (PIF)-backed transformation of the Saudi Pro League, with recruitment used to raise the competition’s sporting level and global profile. The arrival of players such as Ronaldo has also provided enormous commercial attention, helping Saudi soccer become a far more visible product internationally.

The spending strategy is therefore about more than assembling expensive squads. The broader project has sought to increase the league’s commercial appeal, attract global audiences, improve the quality of competition and establish Saudi Arabia as a major soccer market.

Ronaldo still had the final say on the pitch

Yet Al-Hilal’s remarkable spending advantage provides an important reminder that transfer-market dominance does not automatically guarantee trophies. Despite Al-Hilal investing almost twice as much as Al-Nassr in net terms over the five-year period, Ronaldo and Al-Nassr beat their Riyadh rival to the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title.

Al-Nassr finished the campaign with 86 points from 34 matches, recording 28 wins, two draws and four defeats. Al-Hilal actually completed an unbeaten league campaign but finished two points behind on 84, showing how decisive Al-Nassr’s ability to turn matches into victories proved to be.

The title was sealed with a 4-1 victory over Damac, with Ronaldo scoring twice in the second half. It was Al-Nassr’s first league championship since 2018-19 and gave Ronaldo his first major Saudi Pro League title with the club.

Lazio had looked in complete control before the break, taking a deserved two-goal lead and threatening to turn the match into a comfortable victory. Milan, meanwhile, struggled to create much going forward, leaving Ruben Amorim with plenty to think about as his team headed into the interval.

Both sides showed attacking intent early on, with Samuel Chukwueze seeing a header saved before Tijjani Noslin was denied from close range. Lazio eventually broke the deadlock in the 10th minute, when Matteo Cancellieri arrived at the back post to convert Mattia Zaccagni’s low delivery.

The Rossoneri had opportunities to respond, but the hosts continued to look more dangerous. The Laziali then doubled their advantage bizarrely. Pervis Estupinan inadvertently turned Kenneth Taylor’s cross onto his own crossbar, as Noslin was able to head the loose ball into the net to make it 2-0.

Amorim’s triple substitution changes everything

With Milan in serious trouble, Amorim reacted immediately at halftime, making three substitutions as Diego Moreira, Pulisic and Yunus Musah entered the match. The changes completely transformed Milan, with the Rossoneri suddenly playing with the urgency and attacking threat that had been missing before the break.

After halftime, Milan really started to heat up, and the pattern was impossible to ignore. Amorim’s players had scored all of their Serie A goals this season after halftime, and that trend continued against Lazio.

Pulisic provides the assist as Moreira sparks comeback

This was the moment Pulisic’s return truly announced itself. The American delivered a looped cross into the box, and Moreira attacked it brilliantly, smashing a volley past Mandas to cut Lazio’s lead to 2-1.

Moreira was far from finished. Just moments after his first goal, he collected Adrien Rabiot’s lay-off and fired a superb strike into the bottom corner to complete a sensational quickfire brace and bring Milan level at 2-2.

In the end, the visitors from Milan had to settle for a second consecutive draw, but the result extended their unbeaten start to the Serie A campaign. Lazio lost their perfect record but still moved to the top of the table with 10 points from four matches.

For Pulisic, however, the biggest takeaway was personal. After missing Milan’s opening matches, the American returned from the bench and needed only 45 minutes to register his first assist of the campaign, while his energetic display immediately reignited the debate over whether he should return to the starting XI next week.

The 19-year-old arrived in Italy looking for the consistency that proved difficult to find during his first season at Real Madrid. Instead, he delivered a performance that immediately placed his name alongside one of Argentina’s greatest-ever footballers, with his breakthrough coming spectacularly.

Venezia made the brighter start and took the lead in the 22nd minute through Akor Adams, who finished after good build-up play involving American midfielder Gianluca Busio. Fiorentina needed a response, and Mastantuono provided it with remarkable speed.

Mastantuono scored twice in just one minute and 38 seconds around the half-hour mark, turning the match on its head and giving Fiorentina a 2-1 lead before the interval. The attacking midfielder suddenly looked like the player Real Madrid believed it was signing when it paid around $52 million to bring him from River Plate in 2025.

Mateo Pellegrino then extended the Viola’s advantage in the second half, scoring his second goal in as many matches. Mastantuono completed his hat-trick in the 84th minute before Antoine Hainaut pulled one back for Venezia, and Fiorentina eventually secured a 4-2 victory and its first points of the Serie A season.

Mastantuono breaks Messi’s long-standing record

The third goal was the moment that changed the history books, ESPN confirmed. Mastantuono became the youngest Argentine player ever to score a hat-trick in one of Europe’s top five leagues, doing so at just 19 years and 28 days old.

That means he has surpassed Messi, who had held the record since March 2007. Messi was 19 years and 259 days old when he scored his first Barcelona hat-trick in the famous 3-3 draw against Real Madrid, meaning Mastantuono broke the mark by 231 days.

The achievement is particularly significant because Messi’s record had survived for 19 years. Mastantuono has now moved to the top of a list that includes Messi, Mauro Icardi, Antonio Angelillo and Gonzalo Higuaín.

The top five youngest Argentines to score a hat-trick in Europe’s leading leagues are now Mastantuono (19 years, 28 days), Messi (19 years, 259 days), Icardi (19 years, 343 days), Angelillo (20 years, 17 days) and Higuaín (20 years, 334 days).

How did Mastantuono react to his record?

The performance also carried significance beyond the record. Mastantuono scored his first goals for Fiorentina since joining on loan from Real Madrid, and his three-goal haul already matches the total he managed in 35 appearances for the Spanish club last season.

The teenager was understandably delighted after producing one of the biggest performances of his young career. “For me, it’s an honor to enter the history of such a prestigious club,” Mastantuono said. He also made it clear that the result mattered more to him than his personal achievement: “It was important to get a result today, and we played a great game. I’m happy with the win, aside from the goals.”

Al-Khaleej has collected only four points from six matches, drawing four and losing two to sit 13th in the table. The biggest concern has been its attack, with the club scoring just twice while conceding nine goals. The recent results underline that problem.

The Pearls have drawn with Al-Taawoun, Al-Shabab, Abha and Al-Riyadh, while heavy defeats against Al-Hilal and Neom have exposed its vulnerability against stronger opposition. The home record offers little encouragement either. Al-Khaleej is winless in its last 11 matches in all competitions, while it has failed to score in six of those games and has gone more than 242 minutes without finding the net.

On the other hand, Al-Nassr has enjoyed a completely different start, sitting near the top of the table after winning five of its first six league matches. The club bounced back from its 2-1 defeat to Al-Ittihad by beating Abha 2-1, with Ronaldo scoring the opening goal with a header.

That goal took Ronaldo’s league tally to three for the season and reinforced his importance to Ange Postecoglou’s attack. The Knight of Najd has also scored 13 goals in its first six league matches, compared with Al-Khaleej’s two.

Will Ronaldo play against Al-Khaleej?

The answer is yes; Ronaldo has been confirmed to start for Al-Nassr. The Portugal captain will lead the attack once again after scoring against Abha, with Joao Felix returning to the starting lineup following his suspension.

That means Ronaldo will start in a 4-3-3 formation alongside Angelo and Sadio Mane. His presence gives Al-Nassr a major advantage against an Al-Khaleej defence that has struggled to keep opponents away from goal.

The 41-year-old veteran also has an impressive record in this particular fixture. He is the top scorer in Al-Khaleej vs Al-Nassr history with seven goals, four more than Joao Felix, adding another intriguing layer to his expected appearance.

While Ronaldo will lead the line, Al-Nassr will have to cope with several unavailable players. Sultan Al-Ghannam remains sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury, while Kingsley Coman will miss the match because of a hamstring problem.

Al-Khaleej vs Al-Nassr: Confirmed lineups

Al-Khaleej confirmed XI (4-4-2): Moris; Rebocho, Kouyate, Al Khabrani, Al Hamsal; Kanabah, Crespo, Mascarell, Al Saadi; Fulgini, Al Amri.

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-3-3): Bento; Al Nasser, Martinez, Al Amri, Boushal; Al Khaibari, Samu Costa, Joao Felix; Mane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Angelo.

For Pulisic, the situation is becoming increasingly unusual. He has been named in Milan’s squad for all three league matches so far but has not played a single minute, and Saturday’s trip to the Stadio Olimpico is expected to extend that wait into a fourth consecutive game.

Pulisic returned to group training after a difficult summer, but his comeback has been carefully managed. The 27-year-old endured multiple physical problems during the 2026 World Cup, including a bone bruise and microfracture around his right tibia and fibula, which limited him to 224 minutes across four appearances for the United States.

His return to Milan training was also interrupted by another knock, meaning he has not had the kind of uninterrupted preseason preparation Amorim would have wanted. That has made his absence from the starting lineup easier to understand, although it has still been frustrating for a player who previously established himself as one of the Rossoneri’s most important attacking figures.

The numbers from last season underline how much his consistency had already been affected. Opta recorded 30 Serie A appearances and 1,611 minutes for Pulisic in 2025-26, compared with 34 appearances and 2,489 minutes the previous season.

The real reason Pulisic is starting on the bench

The mystery surrounding Pulisic’s absence becomes clearer when Amorim’s comments are taken into account. The Milan coach has repeatedly stressed that the American is being managed carefully following his injury problems, rather than being pushed aside because of a lack of confidence in his ability.

“Pulisic is back from injury. I’m managing him. For now, Alpha is taking his place,” Amorim explained, referring to 19-year-old Alphadjo Cisse, who has taken advantage of Pulisic’s absence.

Amorim has also made it clear that Pulisic’s reputation will not automatically put him ahead of a teammate who is performing well. “I won’t remove anyone who’s doing well just to name a player. This is my way of managing the group, and I’ll die with these principles,” the Portuguese coach said.

That is the central reason Pulisic is starting on the bench against Lazio: his recovery is being managed while Cisse has earned the opportunity to keep his place. Cisse has scored twice in Milan’s opening three league matches, giving Amorim little reason to disrupt a player who has responded so well to his chance.

Amorim actually likes Pulisic’s frustration

There is, however, an important positive for Pulisic. Amorim has admitted that the American is unhappy about his lack of playing time, but rather than viewing that frustration negatively, the coach sees it as evidence of the competitive mentality he wants from his players. “Pulisic is upset at the moment because he has zero minutes, and I love that,” Amorim said. “I love that in my players. But he’s ready to play.”

The coach also confirmed that the winger should finally see action against Lazio, even if he is not given a starting role. “I think you guys are going to see Pulisic; I don’t know if he is going to start or he’s going to get on the pitch from the bench. I think he’s going to play at least a few minutes now and I like Pulisic,” Amorim told reporters.

That promise gives the American star something tangible to look forward to. After three consecutive unused-substitute appearances, his Serie A debut of the season is expected to come against Lazio, with a second-half appearance likely if his physical condition allows it.

The two Portugal internationals have shared countless moments together over the years, including their country’s historic Euro 2016 triumph. Their familiarity was obvious as Ronaldo approached Danilo during the match, with cameras catching the pair exchanging smiles after an unusual moment involving the Al-Ittihad defender.

The incident happened during Al-Nassr’s 2-1 defeat to Al-Ittihad on September 5, a result that ended the defending champions’ perfect start to the Saudi Pro League season. While the match was fiercely contested, Ronaldo briefly turned his attention away from the action when he noticed Danilo holding a tactical note.

Danilo had received instructions from Al-Ittihad’s coaching staff and was looking at the piece of paper when Ronaldo moved behind him. The Al-Nassr captain leaned over in an apparent attempt to see what was written, creating an amusing scene that was quickly picked up by television cameras.

Danilo eventually noticed Ronaldo standing behind him, and rather than reacting angrily, the former teammates appeared to laugh about the situation. The moment was soon shared widely online, with Al-Ittihad even joining in with the banter. “Cheating and still losing!”, Al-Ittihad took to X (formerly Twitter) to write.

Danilo finally reveals what Ronaldo asked

Almost a week after the match, Danilo finally explained what happened between the two players. Speaking after Al-Ittihad’s victory over Al-Fayha, the defender confirmed that Ronaldo had indeed managed to see the tactical instructions on the paper.

But the funniest detail was what Ronaldo actually said to him. “Yes, it’s true… Cristiano asked me, ‘Are you going to play like this?’, he told reporters, via Al-Riyadiah. Danilo explained that he had not initially realized Ronaldo was standing behind him.

Once he heard the Portuguese star speaking, however, the situation became clear: “I didn’t know he was behind me, and then I heard him talking behind my back, asking me, ‘Are you going to play like this?’ My answer was, ‘Yes, yes… we’ll play like this.’”

Ronaldo’s competitive instincts were on display

The exchange was funny, but it also offered a glimpse of Ronaldo’s mentality. Even during a heated league match, the 41-year-old was looking for any piece of information that could give Al-Nassr an advantage, although this particular attempt clearly became more entertaining than useful.

Danilo later played down the incident, insisting that there were no hard feelings between the pair. When asked whether Ronaldo had actually read what was on the paper, he confirmed that he had, before making clear that it contained tactical information rather than anything particularly sensitive. “He was behind me and he did indeed read what was written on the paper, but there is no problem, it was only about tactics.”

The relaxed reaction reflected the long relationship between the two players. Ronaldo and Danilo spent years together with Portugal and were part of the squad that won Euro 2016, giving the incident an almost friendly feel despite their fierce club rivalry.

Footage from the session has quickly circulated among Inter Miami supporters, with fans immediately connecting the moment to Messi’s previous muscle problems. There is currently no official confirmation that the Argentine has suffered a new injury, however, leaving the situation open to interpretation.

The video, filmed during Inter Miami’s training session this Friday, shows Messi taking part in light work before appearing uncomfortable at one point. He bends over and appears to check or hold his leg while moving more cautiously for a short period.

Messi subsequently continues with the session and is seen carrying on with light drills involving the ball. That detail is important because the footage alone does not establish that Messi has suffered an injury or that he will miss an upcoming match.

The clip was shared by independent Inter Miami accounts on X (formerly Twitter), with footage originally attributed to Ramao Sports. The images have nevertheless been enough to trigger concern among supporters familiar with Messi’s recent fitness issues.

Why Messi’s history makes the footage worrying

The reaction is understandable because Messi has experienced several lower-body muscle problems during the past year. Earlier in 2026, a left hamstring muscle overload or fatigue issue forced him off during Miami’s MLS match against Philadelphia Union in May, while he had also dealt with related discomfort earlier in the season.

At 39, Messi’s workload is naturally being monitored more closely than it was earlier in his career. His demanding schedule has included club football with Inter Miami as well as another major international campaign with Argentina, placing additional emphasis on managing his physical condition.

That history means even relatively minor signs of discomfort can generate significant attention. Still, players can occasionally stretch, check a muscle or move cautiously during training without the incident developing into an actual injury. For now, the biggest takeaway is that Inter Miami has not announced a new injury involving Messi.

There has also been no confirmed medical update indicating that the forward is facing another hamstring problem or any other specific issue. The circulating footage therefore needs to be treated carefully. While it does show the Argentine appearing to experience a moment of discomfort, there is no evidence from the video alone that he has sustained an injury that will affect his availability.

Why Inter Miami cannot afford Messi setback

The timing would be particularly significant for Inter Miami, which is entering an important stage of the MLS campaign. Messi remains the club’s most influential attacking player, and his availability can have a major effect on the team’s ability to compete across a demanding schedule.

Supporters have also raised broader questions about player workload, particularly with MLS teams facing congested periods and limited opportunities to rotate their biggest stars. Managing Messi’s minutes could become increasingly important as Inter Miami approaches the decisive part of the season.

The club will therefore have little reason to take unnecessary risks with its captain. If Messi is feeling any discomfort, careful monitoring during the next few training sessions should provide a much clearer indication of whether the moment was simply temporary stiffness or something more serious.

Brozovic’s future has been the subject of growing speculation in recent weeks, with potential destinations in Europe also discussed. However, the latest developments suggest that the 33-year-old is preparing to remain in the region, although his next club is outside the Saudi Pro League.

According to Win Win journalist Ismael Mahmoud and journalist Ahmed Ragab, negotiations over the Croatian’s next transfer have reached their final stages. The midfielder is reportedly close to completing a move after becoming a free agent following the end of his Al-Nassr contract.

Brozovic remains in Riyadh for the time being and is expected to travel next weekend to undergo his medical examination. The final details are reportedly being completed before contracts are signed, meaning the transfer could soon become official.

The situation represents a change from earlier speculation surrounding his future. Brozovic’s agent, Marina Mikulic, recently admitted that the midfielder was still considering his options. “Brozović is currently in Riyadh. We still don’t know what his next destination will be. We are waiting for offers, and we have not been in contact with Al Ittihad or Al Ahli.”

Where will Brozovic reportedly continue his career?

The mystery surrounding Brozovic’s next club has now largely been solved, with Qatari powerhouse Al Sadd reportedly agreeing a one-season contract with the Croatian, including an option for another year.

The proposed deal is structured as a 1+1 contract, allowing Brozovic to remain with Al Sadd beyond the initial campaign if both sides decide to extend the agreement. The move would also keep the experienced midfielder in the Gulf after three seasons in Saudi Arabia.

For Brozovic, it is a significant decision because a Saudi stay and a return to Europe had remained a possibility. Italian clubs, including Fiorentina and Lazio, were reportedly linked with the former Inter star, but those options ultimately failed to materialize.

When could Ronaldo face his former teammate again?

The most intriguing aspect of the move for Al-Nassr supporters is what it could mean for Ronaldo. Al-Nassr is scheduled to face Al Sadd at Al-Awwal Park in the AFC Champions League Elite on November 24, potentially putting the Portuguese superstar against his former midfield partner.

Brozovic and Ronaldo spent three seasons together in Riyadh after the Croatian arrived from Inter in 2023. Their partnership became an important part of Al-Nassr’s midfield, with Brozovic providing control and defensive balance behind the club’s attacking stars.

If the transfer is completed before their continental meeting, Ronaldo and Brozovic could find themselves on opposite sides of the pitch only months after sharing the same dressing room. It would add an extra layer of intrigue to an already important AFC Champions League fixture.

The 41-year-old would go on to play a decisive role himself, scoring the opening goal in a 2-1 victory at Al-Awwal Park. Yet before the match even began, Ronaldo had already attempted to set the tone inside the dressing room with a speech that reflected the mentality that has defined his career.

Al-Nassr entered the Abha match looking to recover from a 2-1 defeat against Al-Ittihad, the club’s first loss of the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League campaign. The setback had come in the fifth round and provided the defending champions with their first real setback of the new season.

Rather than allowing the result to linger, Ronaldo urged his teammates to draw a line under it. His message focused heavily on the opening stages of the Abha game and the importance of establishing control immediately.

“Let me tell you something, the last match is over, and it has become the past”, he said. The forward then made his expectations even clearer, calling on the team to attack the match with maximum intensity. For Ronaldo, the response had to begin from the first whistle rather than develop gradually as the game progressed.

Ronaldo reveals exactly what he wanted from Al-Nassr

Ronaldo’s pre-match speech centered on one simple demand: Al-Nassr had to start with overwhelming strength and make Abha believe that winning was almost impossible. “Today, in the first twenty minutes, we have to go in with all our strength, make them believe that winning today is impossible. The first twenty minutes will be decisive, lads; let’s start with great strength today, let’s go”, Ronaldo ended passionately.

The 41-year-old stressed the same principles, telling his teammates to play with maximum focus from the beginning and impose their style immediately. The message was direct, aggressive and unmistakably Ronaldo.

Interestingly, his emphasis on the first 20 minutes almost became prophetic. Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, rising to meet a corner from Ângelo and sending a powerful header toward the far post, with the ball striking the post before crossing the line.

Ronaldo then led by example

For Ronaldo, the evening was another example of his relentless approach to soccer. He demanded intensity from his teammates before kickoff, then backed up his words by scoring himself, helping Al-Nassr immediately put its first league defeat of the season behind it.

His pursuit of 1,000 goals continues to attract most of the headlines, but the Abha match offered another glimpse into why he remains such an influential figure inside the Al-Nassr dressing room. His speech was built around urgency, confidence, and refusing to carry a previous defeat into the next game.

At 41, Ronaldo still expects the same standards from himself and those around him. Against Abha, his message was simple: forget the defeat, start aggressively, and make the opponent feel Al-Nassr’s presence immediately.

At 41, Ronaldo has already confirmed that the tournament in North America was his final World Cup, while Portugal’s early elimination has only intensified speculation about what comes next. With the Nations League approaching, attention has now turned toward whether the legendary No. 7 will continue wearing the Portugal shirt.

The veteran’s international career stretches back more than two decades, beginning with his senior debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003. Since then, he has developed into Portugal’s most famous player and one of the greatest international players in history, collecting records for goals and appearances along the way.

He has scored 146 goals in 233 appearances for Portugal, while his international résumé includes the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. However, after the nation’s last 16 defeat to Spain at the 2026 World Cup, the focus has shifted from what Ronaldo has achieved to how much longer he intends to continue.

The forward remains under contract with Al-Nassr until the summer of 2027, although his long-term playing future is also becoming increasingly uncertain. Ronaldo has previously indicated that his current club career could be approaching its final stage, making the next few months particularly significant.

Joao Cancelo finally addresses Ronaldo’s Portugal future

Cancelo was asked directly about Ronaldo’s international future after Barcelona’s Champions League victory over Feyenoord on September 10. Rather than offering a firm prediction, the Portugal defender gave a short response that reflected the uncertainty around the situation. “We hope so, we’ll see,” Cancelo told TNT Sports, giving supporters reason to remain hopeful while making it clear that he does not know whether Ronaldo will continue.

The response is particularly significant because Cancelo has repeatedly shown his support for Ronaldo throughout their time together with the national team. His latest comments suggest that even those closest to the veteran forward may still be waiting for the 41-year-old himself to make the final call.

Could Ronaldo say goodbye to Portugal soon?

Portugal’s upcoming Nations League campaign could provide the first real indication of Ronaldo’s plans. New head coach Jorge Jesus, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, has already made it clear that age alone will not prevent the forward from being selected.

“As long as he’s playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team“, he said recently. Jesus has also described Ronaldo as a symbol of Portuguese soccer and insisted that he would never become a problem for the Selecao. That stance leaves the door firmly open, provided the Al-Nassr captain wants to continue.

There has also been speculation that Ronaldo could choose a Nations League match in Lisbon as his farewell appearance, with Wales reportedly emerging as a possible opponent. The potential symbolism would be enormous given the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s connection to Sporting and the beginning of his professional career in Lisbon, although there has been no official confirmation that he has chosen such a farewell.

Pulisic has been back in training for several weeks after recovering from his World Cup injury, yet his return has been slower than expected. Now, with Milan preparing to face Lazio, Amorim has finally provided clarity on what comes next for the American.

The American forward’s problems began during the 2026 World Cup, where he managed only 224 minutes as injuries limited his involvement with the United States. Reports indicated that he suffered a bone bruise and microfracture around the tibia and fibula in his right leg, while previous injury problems also continued to cause discomfort.

After returning to Rossoneri training in August, Pulisic appeared close to making his comeback. However, a knock during his first training session back forced another interruption, adding to the caution surrounding his return.

That has left the 27-year-old without a single competitive minute for the San Siro outfit this season. He was included in the squad for all three Serie A matches but remained an unused substitute each time, including the 1-1 draw against Juventus.

Amorim sends Pulisic harsh warning

The biggest issue for Pulisic is that his reputation alone will not guarantee him a starting place under Amorim. The Milan coach has made it clear that he will reward players who are performing well, even if that means keeping an established star on the bench. “Christian Pulisic is not happy because he didn’t play so far,” he said. “But I like him a lot as a player, remember he was injured this summer.”

Amorim then made his philosophy unmistakable. “I will never pick my starting lineup based on big names. These are my principles and won’t change.” That is the reality Pulisic now faces at Milan. The coach is refusing to disrupt a winning formula simply to accommodate a high-profile player, particularly while 19-year-old Alphadjo Cisse has taken his opportunity and impressed.

Cisse has scored twice in Milan’s opening three league games, giving Amorim a compelling reason to continue trusting the teenager. Pulisic’s absence has therefore coincided with the emergence of a young player who has quickly established himself in the attacking midfield role. Amorim acknowledged that situation rather directly.

“I won’t remove anyone who’s doing well just to name a player. This is my way of managing the group, and I’ll die with these principles.” For Pulisic, that means his route back into the starting lineup must be earned through performances rather than reputation. The positive side is that Amorim has repeatedly stressed that he considers Pulisic an important player for the team.

Pulisic finally has something to look forward to

The good news for Pulisic is that his wait is finally coming to an end. Amorim confirmed ahead of Saturday’s trip to Lazio that the American will receive minutes at the Stadio Olimpico, although the coach has deliberately kept the starting lineup under wraps. “You’ll see him tomorrow [Saturday]. I don’t know if he’ll start or play during the game. I think he’ll play a few minutes,” the Portuguese said.

That frustration could actually work in Pulisic’s favor. Amorim sees his disappointment as evidence of the competitive mentality he wants from his players, provided the winger channels that emotion into his performances once he gets onto the pitch.

Amorim also offered Pulisic a much broader reason to remain patient. Milan’s schedule is about to become significantly more demanding, particularly after the international break, when the club will face a period containing multiple matches every week.

“After the break, we’ll have eight weeks with three games per week. I think they are going to be tired of playing, so there’ll be time for everyone,” Amorim said. He added that Pulisic is “very important” and will play a lot of games, suggesting that the current lack of minutes is more about managing his recovery and rewarding current form than pushing him out of the project.

Ronaldo already owns a significant stake in a Spanish second-tier club, while Messi has been linked with a potential takeover of another. The developments have raised questions about what the two icons could bring to Spanish soccer after building extraordinary careers as players.

Multiple reports have emerged that Messi has reached a preliminary agreement to acquire Segunda Division side Eldense, an Alicante-based club looking to establish itself in Spain’s second tier. However, the deal has yet to be officially confirmed by either Messi’s representatives or the club.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is already involved in Spanish soccer ownership through fifth-tier Cornella, based in Barcelona. A takeover of Eldense would represent a significantly larger investment and could give the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner an even more prominent role in the Spanish soccer pyramid.

The possibility has naturally attracted widespread attention because of Messi’s status and his long history in Spain. He spent a total of 21 years with Barcelona, becoming the club’s all-time great before leaving in 2021 amid the club’s financial difficulties.

Tebas reveals his unexpected reaction

La Liga president Javier Tebas was asked about the Eldense reports during the presentation of the Panini LaLiga EA Sports sticker album. Interestingly, despite his position at the top of Spanish soccer, Tebas admitted that he had learned about the potential deal through the media rather than through official channels.

“I found out about Eldense from the media. I don’t know if it’s true or not, whether Messi has bought it or not, whether it’s a group or just him,” Tebas told reporters, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo and ESPN.

While the La Liga president could not confirm Messi’s plans, his overall reaction was overwhelmingly positive. He also pointed to Ronaldo’s existing involvement with Spanish soccer as an example of the two legends extending their influence beyond the pitch.

“But we must remember that 25% of Almeria is owned by Cristiano Ronaldo, so it’s an honor that the two greatest players in the world in recent years are thinking of investing part of their savings in Spanish football and helping to make it even bigger,” Tebas added.

Ronaldo already has foothold in Spain

Ronaldo acquired a 25% stake in UD Almeria in February, giving the Portuguese superstar a direct financial connection to a Spanish second-tier club. Almeria is therefore already part of Ronaldo’s growing business interests away from his playing career.

Messi’s potential move into Eldense would create a fascinating parallel. Both players could soon have significant interests in Segunda Division clubs, although their exact ownership structures and ambitions would be very different.

The contrast is particularly striking given their history. Ronaldo and Messi spent nine seasons competing directly against one another for Real Madrid and Barcelona, respectively, while accumulating an extraordinary collection of individual awards and team trophies.

The numbers come from the latest CIES Football Observatory Weekly Post 552, published on September 9, 2026. Rather than measuring current player values, the report looks at the cumulative transfer fees and add-ons paid to assemble each club’s current first-team squad, offering a different way of examining the balance of power in Saudi soccer.

Al-Hilal sits comfortably at the top of the Saudi rankings, followed by Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr. The order highlights how heavily several clubs have invested in their current squads, while Al-Nassr’s position represents a significant change compared with the previous year.

According to the CIES Football Observatory, the Saudi top five have collectively invested around €1.606 billion in transfer fees and add-ons for players currently on their books. Al-Hilal alone accounts for roughly one-third of that total.

The rankings are Al-Hilal at €535 million, Al-Ahli at €329 million, Al-Qadsiah at €257 million, Al-Ittihad at €251 million, and Al-Nassr at €234 million. Al-Qadsiah has made the biggest climb, rising 20 places globally, while Al-Nassr has suffered the largest fall among the five, dropping 11 places.

The spending gap finally revealed

That is where the scale of Al-Hilal’s advantage becomes particularly striking. Al-Hilal has spent €535 million assembling its current squad, compared with €234 million for Al-Nassr, a difference of €301 million, meaning Al-Nassr’s total is less than half of its Riyadh rival’s.

In Saudi currency, CIES puts Al-Hilal’s squad acquisition cost at approximately 2.34 billion Saudi riyals, while Al-Nassr stands at around 1.02 billion riyals. Al-Ahli follows at 1.44 billion riyals, with Al-Qadsiah at 1.12 billion and Al-Ittihad at 1.10 billion.

The figures are especially interesting because Al-Nassr remains the defending Saudi Pro League champion and continues to have some of the biggest names in the competition, including Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman. Its current squad is therefore still capable of competing at the highest level despite the much lower cumulative acquisition cost.

Why the CIES figures need context

There is an important distinction behind the numbers. CIES is measuring what clubs paid to acquire the players currently in their squads, including add-ons regardless of whether those bonuses have actually been paid, rather than calculating what those players are worth today.

That means the figures should not be confused with Transfermarkt’s estimated market values. Around the time of the report, Al-Hilal’s squad was valued at roughly €240 million, while Al-Nassr’s was around €137 million, illustrating the difference between historical acquisition costs and current estimated values.

Wages are also excluded from the CIES calculation. That matters considerably in the Saudi Pro League, where salaries and other financial commitments can represent a substantial part of the overall cost of assembling a squad.

Milan is already looking ahead to Pulisic’s contract situation, with negotiations expected to become a major topic in the coming months. According to Milan News, Cardinale isn’t willing to risk losing one of the club’s most important players and is pushing for an agreement that would keep him at the San Siro beyond his current deal.

The Rossoneri have the option to unilaterally extend Pulisic’s contract until 2028, but that is not the preferred solution. The club would rather reach a mutually agreed renewal that convinces the forward to continue committing himself to the Rossoneri project.

That stance underlines how highly Pulisic is regarded by the ownership, despite his difficult start to the new campaign. Milan still considers him a cornerstone of its future, but his relationship with the new coaching setup could prove increasingly important.

Pulisic’s difficult return continues

Pulisic has endured a frustrating few months since the 2026 World Cup, where he managed only 224 minutes after leg problems restricted his involvement. Reports indicated that the winger suffered a bone bruise and microfracture around the tibia-fibula junction in his right leg, while previous injury issues also caused discomfort during the tournament.

Those problems have carried into the beginning of the 2026-27 season. Despite returning to group training on August 21 and being included in Milan’s matchday squads, Pulisic has played zero minutes in the opening three Serie A matches, including the 1-1 draw against Juventus.

The situation has been particularly noticeable because 19-year-old Alphadjo Cisse has taken up the role Pulisic would normally occupy, while Yunus Musah has started every league game so far. Pulisic has instead watched from the substitutes’ bench as he continues his gradual return to full fitness.

Why Amorim holds the key to Pulisic’s future

This is where Amorim’s role becomes crucial. According to SportMediaset, the 27-year-old winger has become something of a mystery under the Portuguese coach, having remained an unused substitute despite training with the team for several weeks.

Amorim has explained that his decision is linked to carefully managing Pulisic’s return rather than simply overlooking him. After the Juventus draw, the Milan coach said: “Pulisic is back from injury. I’m managing him. For now, Alpha is taking his place.”

The coach also stressed that several players are being handled carefully as Milan balances fitness and results. “We’re still managing the minutes of some players and trying to win the match,” the Portuguese boss explained, emphasizing the physical considerations involved in his selection decisions.

That approach could become central to Pulisic’s future. Cardinale may want the American to remain at Milan until 2028, but Amorim has to decide how important Pulisic is to his tactical plans, particularly with Cisse making such an impressive start.

Pulisic has been included in Ruben Amorim’s matchday squads for Milan’s first three Serie A games, yet he has remained an unused substitute in each. The 27-year-old has been dealing with the effects of injuries suffered during the 2026 World Cup, where he managed only 224 minutes across four appearances.

The 27-year-old suffered a bone bruise and microfracture around his right tibia and fibula during the World Cup, while previous injury problems also caused discomfort throughout the tournament. Those issues followed him back to Milan and have prevented him from completing a full preseason under Amorim.

The situation became particularly frustrating after the Rossoneri’s 1-1 draw with Juventus. Pulisic was once again named among the substitutes but never entered the game, while 19-year-old Alphadjo Cisse continued to occupy his attacking role.

Amorim has repeatedly indicated that the decision is connected to Pulisic’s physical condition rather than a lack of belief in his ability. After the Juventus match, the Milan coach explained that he was carefully managing several players as they worked their way back to full fitness. “Pulisic is back from injury. I’m managing him. For now, Alpha is taking his place,” Amorim said.

Will Pulisic play against Lazio?

The latest indications from Milan News suggest Pulisic will again start on the bench against Lazio on Saturday, with Cisse expected to retain his place in the starting XI.

That would leave Pulisic waiting for his first Serie A appearance of the season, although there is optimism that he could finally receive some playing time at the Stadio Olimpico. By the time Milan faces Lazio, almost a month will have passed since Pulisic returned to group training.

The expectation is that the American is still not fit enough to start, but he could be introduced during the match if his condition allows. Cisse has given Amorim a reliable alternative in the meantime, scoring against both Torino and Juventus to strengthen his case.

The numbers behind Pulisic’s drought

Pulisic’s absence has also made his scoring drought increasingly difficult to ignore. According to Corriere dello Sport, 255 days have passed since Pulisic last scored, while 109 days have passed since his last appearance for Milan. His last goal in the Red and Blacks’ kit came before the turn of the year, when he was one of the club’s most influential attacking players.

Those numbers represent a dramatic change from the player Milan supporters saw earlier in his Rossoneri career. Pulisic had scored important goals, decided a derby and even helped Milan fight back against Torino despite reportedly playing while carrying a fever. Now, under a new coach and in a new system, the American is still waiting for his opportunity to rediscover that form.

Ronaldo scored in the 22nd minute of his side’s 2-1 victory over Abha on September 9, 2026, rising to meet an Angelo corner and sending a downward header toward goal. The ball struck the post before crossing the line, giving Ronaldo his 979th career goal and helping his club recover from its recent defeat to Al-Ittihad.

The significance of the goal becomes clearer when looking at the bigger picture. With the strike against Abha, Al-Nassr extended its scoring streak to 93 consecutive league matches, continuing a run that began in December 2023.

The club had already secured the domestic record earlier in the 2026-27 campaign. The Knight of Najd became the first team in Saudi Pro League history to score in 89 consecutive matches, surpassing the previous benchmark of 88 held by Al-Hilal.

The streak began on December 8, 2023, when Al-Nassr defeated Al-Riyadh 4-1. Since then, the Riyadh club has found the net in every league fixture, turning what initially looked like a routine run of scoring form into one of the most remarkable streaks in modern domestic soccer.

Ronaldo helps Al-Nassr close in on world record

Breaking the Saudi record was only part of the story. By scoring against Abha, Al-Nassr reached 93 consecutive league matches with at least one goal, matching the historic mark associated with Argentine giant River Plate. River Plate achieved the same figure between 1936 and 1939, meaning the Saudi club has matched a record that stood for decades.

The achievement is particularly striking because Al-Nassr has maintained the run across multiple seasons, managers and squads. The arrival of major international stars has transformed the Saudi Pro League in recent years, but Al-Nassr’s ability to consistently find goals has remained remarkably stable.

One more match could make history

Al-Nassr is now one scoring game away from taking the world record outright, assuming the 93-match River Plate benchmark is used. That gives every upcoming league fixture an added layer of significance. The club does not need a victory or a particular number of goals to break the mark, as one goal would be enough to move beyond 93 consecutive matches.

The consistency behind the run has also been a collective achievement. Ronaldo has been central to Al-Nassr’s attacking threat, but the streak has survived because the club has repeatedly found contributions from different players and maintained its ability to score across changing circumstances.

For Ronaldo personally, the Abha match was another reminder that age has done little to diminish his influence. At 41 years old, the forward played the entire match and was named Al-Nassr’s man of the match for the second time this season. His latest strike also moved him to 979 career goals, leaving him only 21 away from the extraordinary 1,000-goal milestone.

Ronaldo scored in Al-Nassr’s 2-1 victory over Abha on September 9, heading home an Angelo corner in the 22nd minute. The goal was his 979th career strike, moving him closer to the 1,000-goal milestone while also adding another entry to one of the most remarkable statistical chapters of his career.

The finish against Abha was classic Ronaldo. He attacked the delivery with perfect timing, generated enough power to beat the goalkeeper and watched as the ball struck the post before crossing the line. The goal also took Ronaldo to 158 headed goals, according to the commonly circulated modern statistical tally.

That figure puts him ahead of a long list of legendary forwards and highlights just how unusual his aerial production has been throughout a career that has included Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr. The 41-year-old was also named man of the match for the second time this season, after playing the full 90 minutes.

So how many more headers does Ronaldo need?

This is where the viral claim requires some correction. A social media graphic celebrated Ronaldo as the outright record holder with 158 headed goals, claiming that he had overtaken Celtic legend Jimmy McGrory, who was listed at 157.

However, historical compilations provide a different figure for McGrory, with the Scottish great credited with 162 headed goals in the more commonly referenced historical tally. That means Ronaldo is currently four headed goals away from the 162-goal mark attributed to McGrory, according to the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS).

The distinction matters because there is no universally recognized FIFA database ranking every headed goal scored throughout soccer history. Statistics from the early decades of the 20th century are particularly difficult to verify, meaning totals for players such as McGrory can differ depending on the source and methodology.

Ronaldo already in class of his own

Even with the historical caveat, Ronaldo’s numbers are extraordinary. The commonly cited top five for headed goals currently has McGrory on 162, Ronaldo on 158, Fred Roberts on 134, Mario Jardel on 132, and Santillana on 129. The gap between Ronaldo and the players immediately behind him shows just how far ahead he is of most of soccer history when it comes to scoring with his head.

What makes Ronaldo’s tally even more impressive is that he has never been a traditional target man whose entire game was built around playing as a penalty-box No. 9. He has spent large portions of his career operating from the wing or as a roaming forward, particularly during his Manchester United and Real Madrid years.

His ability to attack crosses from different positions, combined with his leap, timing and movement, turned him into one of the most dangerous aerial players the sport has ever seen.

Barcelona opened its 2026-27 UEFA Champions League campaign with a 5-1 demolition of Feyenoord at the Camp Nou, maintaining its perfect start to the season. Raphinha scored twice, Karim Adeyemi added his first European goal for the club, while Yamal and substitute Gabriel Jesus also found the net.

Raphinha needed only three minutes to open the scoring after receiving Yamal’s pass and cutting inside two defenders. Adeyemi then doubled the advantage in the 22nd minute before Raphinha struck again shortly after halftime, leaving Feyenoord with an almost impossible task.

Yamal eventually took over the spotlight, scoring Barca’s fourth in the 77th minute with a clever direct free-kick. Sem Steijn pulled one back for Feyenoord five minutes later, but Jesus restored the Blaugrana’s four-goal advantage in the 85th minute by converting Yamal’s cross.

Yamal makes history with the Barcelona armband

The night carried a milestone that had nothing to do with the Champions League record books. After Raphinha was substituted, he handed the captain’s armband to Yamal, making the teenager the youngest player in Barcelona history to captain the club.

Yamal had already been included in Barcelona’s leadership group for the 2026-27 campaign. Raphinha serves as first-choice captain, Pedri is second captain, while Eric Garcia, Frenkie de Jong and Yamal make up the remainder of the group following a squad vote.

The moment was particularly symbolic because Yamal is still only 19. He has gone from teenage prospect to one of Barcelona’s most important attacking players and now has a place in the club’s captaincy history as well.

How long did Messi wait to score as Barcelona captain?

That makes Messi’s own timeline especially fascinating. Lionel Messi was 25 years old when he first started an official La Liga match as Barcelona captain, doing so against Celta Vigo on March 30, 2013, when regular captains including Carles Puyol and Xavi Hernandez were unavailable.

Messi scored in the 72nd minute of Barcelona’s match against Celta Vigo, although there is an important technical detail surrounding the moment. Andrés Iniesta had come onto the pitch and taken the armband before Messi’s goal, meaning the Argentine started the match as captain but was no longer wearing it when he found the net.

According to Barcelona’s official data, Messi had actually worn the captain’s armband for the first time much earlier, in a preseason friendly against Dundee United on July 27, 2008. He was 21 years and 33 days old at the time and marked his first captaincy appearance with a hat-trick in a 5-1 victory.

Messi later became Barcelona’s permanent captain ahead of the 2018-19 season, following Iniesta’s departure. His first goal after becoming the club’s official captain came in the Joan Gamper Trophy against Boca Juniors on August 15, 2018, when he scored in a 3-0 victory.

Barcelona opened its Champions League campaign with a 5-1 victory over Feyenoord at Spotify Camp Nou, continuing an electric start to the 2026-27 season. Hansi Flick’s side controlled 72% possession, completed close to 800 passes and created 22 shots as its positional play repeatedly exposed the Dutch club’s defensive line.

Raphinha once again led the way with two goals, while Karim Adeyemi and Gabriel Jesus also found the net. Yamal contributed a goal and two assists, producing another performance that underlined why the Blaugrana is increasingly building its attack around the 19-year-old.

The result extended Barcelona’s remarkable scoring run to 22 goals in five matches across all competitions. What’s more, Yamal’s influence was felt immediately against Feyenoord when he produced the assist for Raphinha’s opening goal. His volley set up the Brazilian, who cut inside before sending two defenders the wrong way and finishing brilliantly.

That assist gave Yamal 21 Champions League goal involvements as a teenager, consisting of 11 goals and 10 assists. The tally moved him beyond Kylian Mbappe’s previous record of 20, before Yamal added another goal and assist to finish the night with 23 Champions League goal contributions.

Yamal becomes Barcelona’s youngest captain

The Champions League night also produced another significant milestone for Yamal, as he became the youngest player to wear Barcelona’s captain’s armband in the club’s history at 19. Raphinha, Barcelona’s first-choice captain for the 2026-27 season, handed the armband to Yamal while being substituted.

The Spaniard’s promotion had already been reflected in Barcelona’s leadership group. Raphinha is captain, Pedri is second captain, while Eric Garcia, Frenkie de Jong and Yamal complete the group after a squad vote.

The milestone saw Yamal overtake Bojan Krkic as Barcelona’s youngest captain. It is another indication of how quickly the club has come to trust a player who is still only 19.

How old was Messi when he first wore the armband?

That naturally raises the question of how Yamal compares with the greatest Barcelona player of the modern era. Lionel Messi was 21 years and 33 days old when he first wore Barcelona’s captain’s armband, doing so in a preseason friendly against Dundee United on July 27, 2008.

According to FC Barcelona’s official stats, Messi captained the team in that match under Pep Guardiola and marked the occasion in spectacular fashion by scoring a hat-trick in a 5-1 victory. Yamal therefore broke the club’s age record by taking the armband roughly two years earlier than Messi did.

There is an important distinction, however, because Messi’s first competitive appearance as Barcelona captain came later. He was 25 when he first started an official La Liga match wearing the armband, against Celta Vigo on March 30, 2013, when the club’s regular captains were unavailable.

Messi has reached a preliminary agreement to acquire 100% of CD Eldense, a Spanish second-division club based in Elda, near Alicante. The club confirmed the agreement on September 9, 2026, with the transaction still requiring legal procedures, due diligence, and approval from Spain’s High Council for Sports (CSD).

According to Reuters, BBC Sport and The Athletic, the deal would see Messi acquire the shares currently held by Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group. There is currently no fixed completion date, meaning the agreement has yet to become a completed takeover.

Eldense is currently competing in the Segunda Division and is positioned near the bottom of the table. If the transaction receives the necessary approvals, Messi would gain control of a club in one of Europe’s most competitive second tiers, giving him another platform for developing young players and building a soccer operation.

Messi’s soccer portfolio keeps growing

The Eldense agreement would make Eldense the second Spanish soccer club under Messi’s full ownership. Earlier in 2026, he completed the purchase of Catalan side UE Cornella, a club particularly known for its focus on youth development.

Messi also has soccer interests outside Spain. He is a co-owner of Uruguayan club Deportivo LSM alongside longtime friend and Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez, while Argentine club Leones de Rosario FC is a family project administered by his brother Matías Messi.

His portfolio also extends beyond traditional soccer. Messi is a co-owner of KRU Esports, the organization founded by Sergio Aguero, and he is expected to receive an equity stake in Inter Miami as part of his playing agreement with the MLS club.

There is, however, an important distinction surrounding one frequently mentioned name. Several reports and social media posts have listed FC Andorra among Messi’s clubs, but there is no clear public evidence that Messi owns a stake in the soccer club itself. His family does have business interests in Andorra, including a family office, hotels, and corporate holdings.

So, how many clubs does Cristiano Ronaldo own?

The comparison with Ronaldo becomes particularly interesting because the Portuguese superstar has also moved into club ownership while continuing his playing career. Ronaldo officially owns a 25% stake in Spanish second-tier club UD Almeria, an investment completed through his CR7 Sports Investments subsidiary.

According to the BBC, Ronaldo acquired the Almeria stake in February 2026 and partnered with the club’s majority owners, the Saudi Arabian investment consortium SMC Group. That means Ronaldo currently has one clearly established direct soccer-club ownership stake.

Almería’s presence in the same division as Eldense makes the situation even more intriguing. Messi’s potential new club and Ronaldo’s Almeria are both competing in Spain’s second tier, creating the possibility of another chapter in the careers of two players whose rivalry dominated world soccer for more than a decade.

There have also been claims that Ronaldo has a broader structural connection to Al-Nassr, including reports of a stake linked to his long-term relationship with the Saudi club. However, the exact ownership structure is less clear publicly, so it is safer to distinguish those reported connections from his confirmed 25% Almería investment.

Al-Nassr entered Wednesday’s Saudi Pro League meeting with Abha looking to recover from its first defeat of the season. Instead, Ronaldo’s contribution provided another chapter in the club’s remarkable rise, with his 22nd-minute header from Angelo’s corner giving the hosts a 1-0 victory at Al-Awwal Park.

The match was Al-Nassr’s sixth Saudi Pro League fixture of the season, with Ange Postecoglou’s side determined to respond after the 2-1 loss against Al-Ittihad. Abha, meanwhile, arrived at the bottom of the table after collecting only one point from its opening five matches.

Ronaldo made the difference in Riyadh, rising to meet Angelo’s delivery and sending his header into the net in the 22nd minute. The Portuguese superstar continues to produce decisive moments at the age of 41, while Al-Nassr continues to establish itself as one of the most consistent attacking teams in Saudi soccer. This time, however, Ronaldo’s finish also helped the club move into a very special place in the history of the game.

Al-Nassr matches 87-year-old soccer record

The significance of Ronaldo’s goal was revealed after the final whistle. According to Thmanyah, the Saudi league’s broadcasting network, Al-Nassr has now scored in 93 consecutive Saudi Pro League matches, matching the historic mark previously achieved by River Plate.

River Plate established its legendary scoring run between 1936 and 1939, finding the net in 93 consecutive domestic league matches. That record stood for roughly 87 years before Al-Nassr finally drew level with it.

The Saudi club’s remarkable sequence began in December 2023 and has survived changes in opponents, squad personnel and coaching approaches. Ronaldo has been one of the central figures in Al-Nassr’s attacking identity during this period, contributing consistently since joining the club in late 2022.

There is some conflicting information surrounding the exact starting point of the streak in the supplied reports, with one source placing the beginning after a December 2023 meeting with Al-Riyadh and another referencing the Al-Hilal defeat. However, the key milestone remains the same: Al-Nassr has now scored in 93 successive Saudi Pro League matches, equaling the historic benchmark.

One more goal could make Al-Nassr stand alone

Al-Nassr now has an opportunity to move beyond the mark when it returns to league action against Al-Khaleej. The club is scheduled to travel to Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam next Saturday for Matchday 7.

A goal in that fixture would give Al-Nassr 94 consecutive Saudi Pro League matches with at least one goal, allowing it to establish a new league scoring streak record outright.

The achievement is particularly impressive because the run has continued across multiple seasons and different versions of the squad. Players such as Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, and Angelo have all played their part in maintaining the club’s attacking consistency.

Al-Nassr has made an impressive start to the campaign, collecting 12 points from its opening five league matches. However, the 2-1 defeat against Al-Ittihad ended a four-game winning run and means Postecoglou must now make adjustments as his team returns to Alawwal Park.

Al-Nassr looking to bounce back against struggling Abha

The Knight of Najd had been perfect through its first four league fixtures, beating Al-Fateh, Al-Riyadh, Al-Ettifaq and Al-Taawoun before the setback against Al-Ittihad. The team has still scored 13 goals and conceded only five, while its home record remains perfect after two victories at Alawwal Park.

The defeat in Jeddah was particularly frustrating because Al-Nassr created enough opportunities to rescue a point. George Ilenikhena scored twice inside the opening 22 minutes, while Angelo Gabriel pulled one back before halftime after Ronaldo produced a superb first-touch lob to release Felix.

Abha arrives in Riyadh in completely different circumstances. The promoted side has collected only one point from five matches, losing four and scoring just four goals while conceding 11, leaving it at the bottom of the table.

The visitors have also lost both of their away matches this season, while Al-Nassr has dominated this fixture in recent years. The Riyadh side has won six of the last seven meetings, including an emphatic 8-0 victory in their most recent encounter.

Why Joao Felix is missing against Abha

The first part of the mystery surrounding Al-Nassr’s missing attackers concerns Felix, and the reason is disciplinary rather than physical. The Portuguese forward picked up his fourth yellow card of the season during the defeat to Al-Ittihad, automatically triggering a one-match suspension.

Felix was booked for a challenge on Richard Rios late in the match, meaning he must now watch Wednesday’s game from the sidelines. His absence is a significant blow considering he has already registered two goals and two assists in his first five Saudi Pro League appearances.

His suspension comes at an unfortunate time for Postecoglou, with Felix having quickly established himself as an important attacking partner for Ronaldo. Al-Nassr will therefore need other players to provide the creativity and goal threat he has offered during the opening weeks of the campaign.

Why Kingsley Coman is also unavailable

Coman’s situation is different, with the French winger sidelined by an injury suffered against Al-Ittihad. He was forced off after 60 minutes with a hamstring problem, initially raising concerns that he could face an extended spell out of action.

Medical examinations subsequently provided more clarity. According to Arriyadiyah, Coman suffered a minor hamstring tear and has been advised to undergo at least seven days of rest, meaning he will miss the Abha clash.

The injury is another setback for a player who has featured regularly since arriving at Al-Nassr. Coman has made five Saudi Pro League appearances this season, although he has yet to score or provide an assist.

The expectation is that the Frenchman could be back in contention for Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Elite opener against Al Ain on September 15, provided his rehabilitation progresses without complications. He is also expected to miss the following league fixture against Al-Khaleej.

Al-Nassr has collected 12 points from its opening five league matches, while Abha has taken just one point and sits at the bottom of the standings. With the two teams arriving in completely different form, the focus will be on whether Postecoglou can make the right calls to restore momentum.

Ronaldo’s side started the campaign with four consecutive league victories before suffering a 2-1 defeat away to Al-Ittihad in the previous round. George Ilenikhena scored twice for the hosts, while Angelo Gabriel pulled one back, but Al-Nassr could not find a late equalizer despite sustained pressure.

The result ended a four-match winning run but did little to change the overall picture of an impressive opening to the campaign. Al-Nassr has scored 13 goals and conceded only five in five league games, while both of its home fixtures have ended in victories.

The match therefore represents an excellent opportunity for Postecoglou’s side to respond. Abha has failed to win any of its opening five matches, losing four and drawing once, while scoring only four goals and conceding 11.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo play against Abha?

Despite the recent defeat and the club’s selection issues, Cristiano Ronaldo will start against Abha. The Portuguese superstar has scored twice in four league appearances this season and remains the focal point of an attack that has produced 13 goals.

Ronaldo has been partnered in attack by Ayman, while Sadio Mane, Angelo Gabriel and Samu Costa have also retained their places. Joao Felix was initially expected to feature alongside Ronaldo, but his fourth yellow card of the season against Al-Ittihad means he is suspended for Wednesday’s match.

That suspension is a significant blow given Felix’s strong start to his Al-Nassr career. The Portuguese attacker has recorded two goals and two assists in five league appearances, but will now watch from the sidelines as Ronaldo leads the attack.

Al-Nassr hit by triple blow

Postecoglou also has injury concerns. Kingsley Coman is expected to miss the match after suffering a hamstring injury during the defeat to Al-Ittihad, forcing him off after 60 minutes.

Medical tests indicated that Coman require at least seven days of rest, with the Frenchman potentially targeting a return around Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Elite opener against Al Ain. Sultan Al-Ghannam is another absentee after suffering a cruciate ligament injury.

With Felix suspended and several players unavailable, Postecoglou will have to adjust his attacking and midfield combinations. Ronaldo’s presence provides valuable experience and goals as Al-Nassr tries to avoid consecutive setbacks.

Al-Nassr vs Abha: Confirmed lineups

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-3-3): Bento; Al Nasser, Martinez, Simakan, Boushal; Samu Costa, Al Khaibari, Angelo; Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Hamdan, Mane.

Abha confirmed XI (4-5-1): D. Léon; S. Saud S, A. Hindi, J. Gaari, M. Al Zaid; A. Darisi, F. Al Ghamdi, A. Al Fahad, N. Fekir, A. Gory; M. Batshuayi.

Al-Nassr had opened the campaign with four consecutive league victories before suffering a 2-1 defeat in Jeddah. Now, Postecoglou must find solutions without several important options while Ronaldo and his teammates look to get their title challenge back on track.

Al-Ittihad made the perfect start against Al-Nassr, with George Ilenikhena opening the scoring after only four minutes. He doubled his tally in the 22nd minute after Houssem Aouar found him behind the visiting defense, leaving Ilenikhena to produce a composed left-footed finish.

Al-Nassr eventually found a way back into the match before halftime through Angelo. Ronaldo played a major role in the goal with a brilliant first-touch lob that released Joao Felix, before the ball eventually reached Angelo, who fired home to make it 2-1.

The visitors pushed hard after the break and created several opportunities to level the score. Ronaldo tested Predrag Rajkovic, while Felix also threatened, but the Al-Ittihad goalkeeper made five saves in the second half to preserve the home side’s advantage. The defeat ended Al-Nassr’s perfect start and left the club second on 12 points.

Joao Felix adds another problem

Felix will be unavailable for the next league fixture for a completely different reason. The Portugal international picked up his fourth yellow card of the season against Al-Ittihad, automatically triggering a one-match suspension.

That means Felix will miss Al-Nassr’s meeting with Abha on Wednesday, September 9. His absence is particularly significant considering the forward has made an excellent start to his Saudi Pro League career, registering two goals and two assists in his first five league appearances.

Felix’s frustration was also evident after the defeat, when he declined to give reporters a full interview and delivered a cryptic message about the league’s officiating. “I won’t speak to you, because if I do, I’ll expose this league,” Felix reportedly told the media.

When could Coman and Martinez return?

While Felix is unavailable because of suspension, Coman and Martinez are dealing with injuries. According to Arriyadiyah, medical examinations carried out on Sunday confirmed that both players require at least seven days of rest, ruling them out of Al-Nassr’s next two league fixtures.

Coman suffered a minor hamstring tear, while Martinez sustained a muscle strain accompanied by knee pain. As a result, both players are expected to miss the upcoming clash with Abha and the following Saudi Pro League fixture against Al-Khaleej.

The current expectation is that Coman and Martinez could return for Al-Nassr’s opening AFC Champions League Elite match against Al Ain next Tuesday, September 15. Their availability will depend on how they respond to the rehabilitation program prepared by the club’s medical staff, meaning the proposed return remains subject to their recovery.

The timing creates a significant selection headache for Postecoglou. Coman has featured in all five of Al-Nassr’s matches across competitions this season, although he has yet to record a goal or assist, while Martinez has provided defensive experience since joining the club.

The latest shortlist has once again highlighted the changing landscape of Portuguese soccer. A new generation of stars continues to receive recognition on the biggest individual stage, creating an unusual chapter in Ronaldo’s extraordinary Ballon d’Or story.

Ronaldo’s omission from the 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist extends a run that would have been difficult to imagine during the peak of his career. The Al-Nassr forward had been a near-permanent presence among the nominees for almost two decades after first appearing on the shortlist in 2004.

His absence began in 2023, when he failed to make the final 30 after moving to Saudi Arabia. Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias were among the Portugal players nominated that year, while Ronaldo watched the ceremony from outside the field of contenders.

The same pattern continued in 2024, when Ronaldo again failed to make the shortlist. Ruben Dias and other Portugal internationals continued to receive recognition, showing that the national team’s influence on the award was growing even without its most famous player.

The four-year pattern involving Portugal

The trend becomes particularly striking when the four most recent editions are placed side by side. From 2023 through 2026, Ronaldo has failed to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or in every edition while at least one of his Portugal teammates has made the shortlist.

In 2023, Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias were nominated, while 2024 saw Dias and Vitinha among the recognized Portugal internationals. Ronaldo was absent on both occasions, despite remaining one of the most prolific forwards in world soccer.

The pattern became even stronger in 2025. Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves and Vitinha were nominated, while Ronaldo once again missed out on the 30-man shortlist.

Then came 2026, when the number of Portugal teammates nominated increased further. Bruno Fernandes, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves and Vitinha all made the Ballon d’Or shortlist, giving Ronaldo another year watching as members of Portugal’s next generation received individual recognition.

2026 brings another twist

The 2026 edition also introduced an unusual development because Ronaldo’s club teammate Sadio Mane was nominated. Mane became the first active Al-Nassr teammate to receive a Ballon d’Or nomination during Ronaldo’s time at the Saudi club, adding another layer to an increasingly interesting statistic.

According to Ballon d’Or, Portugal brought together Ronaldo and several other players with previous Ballon d’Or nominations as the national team continues to build around a generation of elite talent. The official list also highlighted the extraordinary longevity of Ronaldo’s own individual record, with 18 career Ballon d’Or nominations.

That number remains a reminder of how dominant Ronaldo was throughout the 2000s and 2010s. His continued absence, however, has opened the door for players such as Fernandes, Vitinha, Mendes and Joao Neves to become increasingly prominent figures in the award conversation.

At 39 years old, Messi is still adding to his extraordinary legacy and rewriting parts of Inter Miami‘s history that once seemed far beyond reach. Two club records now belong to him outright, underlining the extraordinary impact he has had in just over three seasons.

When Messi joined the Herons in July 2023, the club was still in the early stages of its existence after being founded in 2018. Players such as Gonzalo Higuaín and Leonardo Campana had established some of the team’s leading individual marks, but Messi quickly changed the scale of what was possible.

His arrival brought an immediate transformation on the field, with the World Cup winner combining goals, assists and match-winning performances while helping Inter Miami compete for major silverware. What makes his latest achievement especially remarkable is the speed with which he has climbed to the top of the club’s statistical charts.

The gap between Messi and his closest challengers is now substantial. Luis Suárez, one of his former Barcelona teammates and a key part of Inter Miami’s attack, has scored 54 goals for the club, while Leonardo Campana has 32.

Messi owns both major attacking records

Messi’s place at the top of Inter Miami’s record books becomes clear when looking at the club’s all-time attacking statistics. He has scored 98 goals in 112 appearances across all competitions, making him the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, while his 54 assists also make him the franchise’s leading provider.

Those numbers put Messi comfortably ahead of the competition in both categories. Suárez’s 54 goals leave him second in the scoring charts, while former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba sits well behind Messi in assists with 33.

The achievement is even more impressive considering the relatively short period Messi has spent with the club. He has reached those totals in a little over three seasons, while continuing to perform at an elite level despite entering an age when most players have already retired.

Record-breaking 2026 season as Messi’s impact goes beyond statistics

Messi’s exceptional performance in the most recent MLS season has contributed to his impressive stats. He has recorded 18 goals and 12 assists in the 2026 regular season, continuing to rank among the league’s most productive attacking players.

One of the defining moments came on August 29, when Messi produced a sensational individual display against Montreal. He scored four goals and supplied an assist in Inter Miami’s 7-1 victory, taking his club goal tally to 98 and leaving himself only two goals away from the 100-goal milestone.

The numbers only tell part of the story of Messi’s influence at Inter Miami. Since his arrival, the club has won major trophies including the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield and 2025 MLS Cup, while his presence has helped elevate the team’s profile both domestically and internationally.

Messi has also played a major role in attracting global attention to MLS and Inter Miami. His partnerships with players such as Suarez and Alba have created a familiar Barcelona connection, while his performances alongside younger teammates have helped accelerate the club’s development.

The 2026-27 competition is set to provide a different kind of European test, with the expanded league-phase format guaranteeing eight matches before the knockout rounds begin. For Milan, it represents both an opportunity to win silverware and potentially find a route back into the Champions League.

According to the latest Polymarket winner probabilities, Milan is currently given a 15% chance of winning the Europa League, putting it narrowly ahead of another Italian heavyweight. The gap is extremely small, however, suggesting the market expects a wide-open competition rather than a runaway favorite.

Italian great Alessandro Costacurta has also backed the Serie A outfit to make a deep run in the tournament. “Milan and Juventus are favourites in the Europa League and must at least reach the semifinals. Otherwise, keep an eye on the English teams, especially Bournemouth,” the former Milan defender told SportWeek.

The surprise contenders emerge

The prediction market places Juventus at 14%, just one percentage point behind Milan, while Bayer Leverkusen follows at 12%. However, the most eye-catching part of the list is the presence of three English clubs among the seven leading candidates.

Bournemouth is currently rated at 11%, Crystal Palace at 10% and Sunderland at 6%, putting all three surprisingly high in the early projections. Real Sociedad also sits at 6%, showing just how tightly packed the field is beyond the two Italian favorites.

Bournemouth’s position is particularly striking because Costacurta specifically identified the club as one to watch. Crystal Palace enters the competition with European momentum after winning the previous season’s Conference League, while Sunderland’s inclusion reflects the growing optimism surrounding its return to continental competition.

Pulisic and Milan have huge opportunity

Milan’s league-phase schedule will provide an immediate test, beginning with Benfica at San Siro on September 16. Amorim’s side will then travel to Salzburg before facing Bournemouth away, with Ferencvaros, Olympiacos, Sunderland, Levski Sofia and Ararat-Armenia completing the league-phase schedule.

The format means the Rossoneri must navigate eight matches against eight different opponents, with four home games and four away. The top eight teams qualify directly for the round of 16, while those finishing ninth through 24th must go through a two-legged playoff.

For the 27-year-old winger, the Europa League could become an important part of his campaign after a complicated start to the season. The American forward has remained a major attacking option for Milan, while the club’s Europa League squad includes him alongside established names such as Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot and Goncalo Ramos.

The Europa League also provides Milan with a potential shortcut back to Europe’s premier competition. Winning the tournament would secure Champions League qualification, making the competition particularly valuable after the club missed out on the top four in Serie A last season.

At 39, Messi is still producing goals and assists at a remarkable rate, with his influence extending far beyond individual matches. His latest accomplishment places him in territory no other player in MLS history has reached, further strengthening his already extraordinary legacy in American soccer.

The milestone arrived during Inter Miami‘s 2-2 draw with Atlanta United on September 6, when Messi supplied two assists. He first delivered a corner for Casemiro to head home before finding Luis Suarez with a perfectly weighted through-ball for Miami’s second goal.

Those two assists took Messi to 18 goals and 12 assists in 20 MLS appearances during the 2026 regular season, giving him 30 goal contributions for the campaign. More importantly, those numbers completed a feat that had never previously been achieved in league history.

Messi is now the first player in MLS history to record at least 30 goal contributions in three different seasons. The achievement was confirmed after the Atlanta match, adding another remarkable chapter to his increasingly decorated MLS career.

The numbers behind Messi’s three-season record

Messi first reached the 30-goal-contribution threshold in 2024, despite playing relatively few matches. The figures credit him with 23 goals and 13 assists in 25 appearances, giving him a total of 36 goal contributions.

His 2025 campaign took that production to another level. Messi finished that year with 43 goals and 26 assists across 49 appearances in all competitions, while his MLS regular-season numbers alone were enough to put him comfortably beyond the 30-contribution mark.

Now in 2026, Messi has reached the benchmark again with even fewer appearances. The all-competitions figures currently stand at 21 goals and 11 assists in 24 games, while his MLS regular-season tally has already reached 30 contributions.

Minor differences can appear in assist totals depending on whether a source counts secondary assists and whether it is using regular-season or all-competition statistics. However, the central achievement remains unchanged: no other MLS player has produced 30 or more goals and assists in three separate seasons.

Messi continues to defy expectations at 39

When Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, there was widespread excitement about what one of football’s greatest-ever players could accomplish in the final stage of his career. Instead of simply winding down, however, the Argentine has continued to dominate games and rewrite MLS records.

His 2025 season was particularly spectacular, with Messi collecting major individual honors while helping Inter Miami compete for trophies. His influence has continued into 2026, demonstrating that his vision, finishing, and ability to create chances remain at an elite level.

The situation became even more surprising on Sunday night, when Milan faced Juventus in one of the biggest fixtures of the opening weeks. Pulisic had been expected to finally receive some playing time, but the 27-year-old once again remained an unused substitute.

The American has now been called up for three consecutive Serie A matches without making a single appearance, despite returning to group training in August. Milan began the campaign with wins over Torino and Venezia before drawing 1-1 with Juventus, but the American has remained on the sidelines throughout.

His absence has become increasingly noticeable because Milan still needs greater quality in the final third. Alphadjo Cisse has stepped into the role instead and has made an immediate impression, scoring against Torino and Juventus while quickly becoming one of Amorim’s preferred attacking options.

The 19-year-old’s emergence has certainly complicated Pulisic’s route back into the starting lineup. Cisse has already scored twice in three matches, including Milan’s opener against Juventus, making it increasingly difficult for Amorim to justify changing a combination that is producing results.

Ruben Amorim explains why Pulisic is still waiting

The explanation finally came after the Juventus draw, when Amorim was asked directly about Pulisic’s continued absence. The Portuguese coach made it clear that there is a specific reason behind the decision, although he also suggested that Cisse’s current form is playing a role.

“Pulisic is back from injury, I’m managing him. For now, Alpha [Cisse] is taking his place,” Amorim said in his post-match press conference, as relayed by MilanNews. Amorim expanded on his approach when discussing his substitutions and the condition of several players: “We’re still managing the minutes of some players and trying to win the match. Sometimes it’s not just the technical and tactical aspects, it’s also the physical aspect.”

The injury that has complicated Pulisic’s return

Pulisic suffered a bone bruise and microfracture in his right tibia and fibula during the United States’ World Cup campaign, an injury that forced him to miss a significant portion of Milan’s preseason preparations. He returned to group training on August 21, but that did not immediately convince the coaching staff that he was ready for competitive action.

The timing of his comeback also explains some of Milan’s caution. Pulisic had missed the club’s summer tour and only returned to full training shortly before the start of the Serie A season, leaving Amorim with a decision over whether to introduce him gradually or risk pushing him back too quickly.

There is also a broader injury history behind the caution. Pulisic has dealt with several physical problems over the past year, including an ankle sprain, hamstring injury, bursitis and a gluteal issue, meaning the club has little incentive to rush one of its most important attacking players back onto the field.

While Pulisic’s fitness remains the main factor, Cisse’s performances have given Amorim another reason to stay patient. The teenager has adapted quickly to the demands of first-team soccer and has shown the kind of attacking instinct that has made him difficult to remove from the lineup.

Al-Nassr’s latest setback came in a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Al-Ittihad, with George Ilenikhena scoring twice before Angelo pulled one back for the visitors. Despite dominating large portions of the second half, Ronaldo’s side could not find a second goal, with goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic producing a standout performance to preserve the result.

Al-Ittihad started the match at a furious pace and needed only four minutes to take the lead. Ilenikhena reacted quickest after Steven Bergwijn’s effort was parried onto the post, heading the loose ball into the bottom corner.

The young striker doubled his tally in the 22nd minute after Houssem Aouar split the Al-Nassr defence with a perfectly weighted pass. Ilenikhena kept his composure before finishing clinically, giving Al-Ittihad a two-goal advantage and putting the visitors under immediate pressure. The defeat leaves Ronaldo’s team on 12 points from five league matches, while Al-Ittihad climbed to 11 and remains unbeaten.

Ronaldo suffers first league loss with Saudi defending champions

For Ronaldo, the defeat marks his first Saudi Pro League loss of the campaign after Al-Nassr had won its opening four matches. The Portuguese superstar had opportunities but could not find the goal that would have rescued his side from a damaging night.

The result also benefits Al-Hilal, which now sits three points ahead of Al-Nassr at the top of the standings. Al-Ittihad’s victory means the gap between the two sides has been reduced to only one point, adding another layer of intrigue to the title race.

How many MLS losses does Messi have?

The comparison with Messi produces an interesting answer because Inter Miami has suffered four MLS regular-season defeats during the 2026 campaign, but Messi has featured in only two of those losses. In his 19 league appearances this season, the Argentine has recorded an impressive 11 wins, six draws and two defeats.

Messi’s two losses came during Inter Miami’s difficult August run. He was on the field for a 4-1 defeat away to Nashville on August 16 and a 2-1 home loss to Toronto on August 23, giving him only two MLS defeats while playing this season.

The Herons’ wider record is considerably less impressive, with the club also losing to Los Angeles FC in February and enduring further defeats during the Leagues Cup. The latter included losses to Monterrey and Club Leon, although those results came outside the MLS regular season.

Al-Nassr fought back after falling two goals behind in Jeddah, with Angelo pulling one back before the visitors piled on the pressure. Despite creating several chances late in the match, however, Al-Ittihad held on to claim a major victory and move within one point of Al-Nassr in the table.

Al-Ittihad made a flying start, with George Ilenikhena opening the scoring after only four minutes. Steven Bergwijn’s effort was saved by Nawaf Al-Aqidi and came back off the post, allowing Ilenikhena to react quickest and head the rebound into the bottom corner.

The young striker doubled his tally in the 22nd minute after Houssem Aouar found him with a clever ball behind the Al-Nassr defence. Ilenikhena kept his composure before producing a superb left-footed finish, giving the hosts a 2-0 advantage and putting Al-Nassr in serious trouble.

The visitors eventually found a route back into the contest through Angelo. Cristiano Ronaldo helped create the opening with a brilliant first-touch lob into the area, which released Felix before the ball eventually fell to Angelo, who fired home to make it 2-1 before half-time.

Al-Nassr suffers first defeat despite strong push for equalizer

Al-Nassr emerged from the interval with much greater intensity and began creating opportunities around the Al-Ittihad penalty area. Ronaldo tested Predrag Rajkovic with a left-footed effort, while Felix also threatened from a difficult angle.

Rajkovic quickly became the difference between the two teams, making five saves in the second half alone as Al-Nassr searched desperately for an equaliser. His biggest intervention came late in the match when Felix played Sadio Mane through, only for the Serbian goalkeeper to produce another outstanding stop.

The result represents a significant blow for Postecoglou, whose team had won each of its opening four league matches. Al-Nassr remains second on 12 points, while Al-Hilal has moved three points clear at the top, with Al-Ittihad now sitting fourth on 11 points. The defeat also means Ronaldo finished the match without adding to his league tally.

The reason why Joao Felix will miss Abha clash

The latest headache concerns Felix, who will miss Al-Nassr’s next Saudi Pro League match against Abha on Wednesday, September 9. The reason is connected to an incident late in the defeat to Al-Ittihad, when the Portuguese attacker was booked for a challenge on Richard Rios.

That yellow card was his fourth caution of the season, triggering an automatic one-match suspension under the Saudi Pro League’s competition regulations. His absence leaves Postecoglou without one of the team’s most productive attacking players at a particularly important moment.

Felix has made an excellent start to life in Saudi Arabia, scoring against Al-Fateh and Al-Riyadh while providing two assists against Al-Ettifaq. He has now contributed two goals and two assists in the league, but his disciplinary record will force him to watch the Abha match from the sidelines.

The suspension was not the only frustration for Felix following the defeat. The forward appeared visibly angry with the officiating and declined to give reporters a full interview after the final whistle. Instead, the Portugal international delivered a cryptic message while walking past the media. “I won’t speak to you, because if I do, I’ll expose this league,” he said.

Pulisic’s immediate focus is on returning to action, with Sunday’s meeting against Juventus potentially offering his first opportunity to make an impact. However, behind the scenes, Milan is preparing for an important conversation that could shape the next stage of the player’s career at San Siro.

The 27-year-old has been included in the squad for Milan’s opening two Serie A matches against Torino and Venezia, but he has yet to play a single minute. His absence comes after a difficult summer in which he was forced to deal with a bone oedema at the junction between the tibia and fibula in his right leg.

The injury ruled him out of pre-season and forced him to train separately when he returned to Italy on August 2. Although the physical problem has now been resolved, Pulisic is still working his way back to full match fitness after only around a week of team training.

Ruben Amorim made it clear that the American’s current situation is primarily about managing his return rather than questioning his quality. “He has great talent. I simply have to manage my players’ workloads, and I understand that at this moment we need to win and to put more tempo into every match,” Amorim recently told reporters.

New attacking hierarchy at Milan

Pulisic is expected to be on the bench against Juventus, with a second-half appearance considered the most likely scenario. A starting place is currently out of reach, particularly with Alphadjo Cisse and Ruben Loftus-Cheek ahead of him in terms of physical condition.

Milan is eager to have Pulisic back because his attacking production remains extremely important. With Rafael Leao now gone, Pulisic is the club’s leading player for combined goals and assists, making his return particularly significant as Amorim searches for a new attacking hierarchy.

The competition for places has changed considerably, with Milan possessing a mixture of experience, youth, physicality and creativity in the attacking midfield positions. Adrien Rabiot, Cisse, Loftus-Cheek, Diego Moreira and Alexis Saelemaekers all offer different qualities, meaning Pulisic cannot simply expect to walk straight back into the starting XI.

The American also endured a complicated summer away from the pitch, with Premier League side Tottenham and MLS side New York City FC reportedly attempting to bring him back to their respective leagues. Milan refused to open the door, however, highlighting how important Pulisic remains to Gerry Cardinale’s sporting and commercial project.

Pulisic’s Milan renewal talks get key date

That importance will now be tested in the boardroom, with a key meeting between Cardinale and Pulisic’s representatives scheduled for the middle of next week. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport and Calciomercato.com, the meeting will involve Pulisic’s entourage, including his father and agent.

The timing is significant because the winger’s current contract expires in 2027, while Milan has an option that can extend the agreement until 2028. The club is expected to exercise that option, but discussions will also focus on a much longer deal that could keep the American at Milan until 2031.

The financial side of the negotiations could prove more complicated. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Pulisic’s representatives are seeking to double his salary from $4.6 million net per season to $9.2 million net. However, a compromise between the two sides remains possible.

Milan reportedly wants more evidence on the pitch before committing to the biggest financial terms. That makes Pulisic’s return particularly important, because the coming weeks could determine whether the club views him as an essential long-term leader or simply an important player whose future requires further discussion.

Milan has won both of its opening league matches, beating Torino 2-1 away before overcoming Venezia 2-0 at San Siro. Juventus has also collected six points from its first two games, setting up an early-season showdown between two sides that have yet to drop a point.

For Pulisic, the fixture represents another opportunity to contribute to Milan’s strong beginning under their new coach. The American is among the attacking options available to Amorim, although he is expected to begin the match on the bench as he continues working his way back to full match fitness.

The team also has several other attacking options, including Goncalo Ramos, Diego Moreira and Omari Hutchinson. The depth available to Amorim could prove crucial in Turin, particularly against a Juventus side that has also started the season with maximum points.

There is also unfinished business for Pulisic at the Allianz Stadium. The American missed a penalty in the corresponding fixture last season, while Rafael Leao also squandered a one-on-one opportunity as the Red and Blacks failed to take advantage of their chances.

Milan’s perfect start comes with history within reach

The significance of Sunday’s match becomes clearer when Milan’s opening two results are placed alongside the club’s history. A victory in Turin would give Amorim three wins from his first three Serie A matches in charge, something that has been achieved remarkably rarely by Milan coaches.

Only three managers have previously managed such a start. Mario Sperone did it in 1952, Giuseppe Viani followed in 1956, and Luigi Bonizzoni became the most recent coach to accomplish it in 1958.

Amorim can now become the first Milan coach in 68 years to match that extraordinary opening. The fact that Ancelotti, Sacchi and Capello all failed to achieve it makes the opportunity even more striking.

Even Milan legends could not manage it

Sacchi lost his second league match after taking charge, while Capello won his opening two before drawing his third match, coincidentally against Juventus. Ancelotti’s first Serie A game as Milan coach ended in a 0-0 draw against Piacenza in 2001.

Bonizzoni’s achievement in 1958 was particularly memorable because Milan went on to enjoy an outstanding campaign. The club lost only twice that season and ultimately won the Scudetto, adding another layer of history to a record that has remained untouched for nearly seven decades.

Viani had also enjoyed a strong start two years earlier, winning his first three matches before Milan eventually went on to claim the Serie A title. Amorim therefore has the opportunity to join a very small group of managers whose early success became part of the club’s history.

Al-Qadsiah and Al-Kholood have reportedly reached a final agreement for Al-Aliwa, with the transfer expected to be completed during the current summer window. Earlier reports had also linked the 22-year-old with Al-Diriyah, while Al-Qadsiah had already emerged as another option for the winger.

Saudi newspapers Asharq Al-Awsat and Riadat Thamania reported that the two clubs had reached an agreement, while Al-Midan also reported that Al-Qadsiah was working to strengthen its attacking options with the Saudi youngster.

Al-Aliwa is capable of playing as a forward or on the wing and has developed significantly since leaving Al-Nassr. His progress at Al-Kholood has now attracted the attention of one of the ambitious clubs near the top of the Saudi soccer pyramid.

Al-Nassr’s connection to the transfer

The most interesting part of the reported agreement for Ronaldo’s club comes from Al-Nassr’s involvement in Al-Aliwa’s previous transfer. The winger came through the Al-Nassr academy and was promoted to the senior team during the 2023-24 season, making 10 league appearances and scoring two goals.

After a loan spell at Al-Ettifaq, Al-Nassr permanently sold Al-Aliwa to Al-Kholood in August 2025 for a reported 500,000 Saudi riyals (around $133,000). Crucially, the deal included a 25% sell-on clause, meaning Al-Nassr would be entitled to a quarter of any future transfer fee.

That clause is now set to become important. If Al-Aliwa’s move to Al-Qadsiah is officially completed, Ronaldo’s side will receive 25% of the transfer fee, although the final amount has not yet been confirmed.

The potential financial boost revealed

Some social media reports have speculated that the transfer fee could be around 20 million Saudi riyals ($5.3 million), although no official confirmation has been made. If that valuation were accurate, Al-Nassr’s 25% share would amount to about 5 million Saudi riyals ($1.3 million), turning a relatively modest original sale into a sizeable financial return.

That figure should be treated cautiously until the clubs announce the transfer fee. Still, the sell-on agreement gives Al-Nassr a clear financial incentive to follow Al-Aliwa’s next move closely.

The fixture brings together two of Saudi Arabia’s biggest clubs at the Alinma Stadium in Jeddah. With Al-Nassr sitting near the top after four wins and Al-Ittihad looking to disrupt that momentum, the latest team news could have a major impact on the contest.

Al-Nassr has won all four of its Saudi Pro League matches this season, scoring 12 goals and conceding only three. Ange Postecoglou’s side opened with a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh, followed it with a 4-0 win against Al-Riyadh, and then showed its resilience by coming from two goals behind to defeat Al-Ettifaq 3-2.

On the other hand, Al-Ittihad has collected eight points from its opening four games, remaining unbeaten despite dropping points in two matches. The team began with a draw against Al-Kholood, defeated Al-Qadsiah and Al-Hazem, then drew with Al-Fateh.

Jens Wissing’s side has been more impressive defensively than in front of goal. Al-Ittihad has scored only five times, despite creating 16 big chances, and has missed 13 of those opportunities.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing today?

The big question heading into the match is Cristiano Ronaldo’s availability and his place in Postecoglou’s plans. Ronaldo has been confirmed to start for Al-Nassr, with the Portuguese superstar leading the attack alongside Joao Felix.

Ronaldo has already scored twice in the team’s first four league matches. His first goal came as a substitute against Al-Riyadh on August 21, while his second was particularly significant, with his 978th career goal proving decisive in the 2-1 victory over Al-Taawoun on August 28.

His record against Al-Ittihad also makes him a player the hosts will have to watch closely. The 41-year-old superstar has scored six goals in his last six appearances against Al-Ittihad, including four in his last three away appearances in the fixture.

Al-Ittihad vs Al-Nassr: Confirmed lineups

Al-Ittihad confirmed XI (4-4-2): Rajkovic; Danilo, Kadesh, Faris, Al-Julaydan; Lopy, Mukhtar, Aouar, Ahmed; Bergwijn, Ilenikhena.

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-3-3): Al-Aqidi; Alnajdi, Al-Amri, Simakan, Boushal; Costa, Angelo, Felix; Coman; Mane, Ronaldo.

The Ivorian arrived from Leipzig as Real Madrid’s most expensive signing in history, with a guaranteed $145 million fee that could increase further through bonuses. Yet after the opening four La Liga matches, Diomande has been given only limited opportunities, prompting questions about why Mourinho has been reluctant to throw him straight into the starting lineup.

According to Transfermarkt and Diario AS, Diomande played 25 minutes against Espanyol, six against Real Sociedad and 26 against Malaga, giving him just 57 minutes across Madrid‘s opening three league matches.

Following Madrid’s 1-0 defeat to Real Betis on Friday, his overall tally had risen to only 83 minutes in the first four games. For a player carrying such a massive transfer fee, those numbers might appear surprising, but Mourinho has repeatedly stressed that the teenager’s development should be handled patiently.

Diomande is only 19 and has made an extraordinary rise over the past two years. After previously playing for Leganes B, he established himself at Leipzig and featured in 33 of 34 Bundesliga matches last season, starting 28 and producing 12 goals and eight assists.

Mourinho explains his cautious approach

Mourinho addressed Diomande’s situation after the victory over Málaga, making it clear that the transfer fee will not dictate how quickly the youngster is introduced: “He must take it step by step. He is working hard and well, he is open and humble, wants to learn, listens to his teammates, and will develop.”

The Portuguese coach also acknowledged the enormous price attached to the youngster while insisting that it should not change his thinking. “I cannot look at the amount of €120 or €130 million… How much did we pay? I need to look at a player coming from a high-level season at RB Leipzig,” Mourinho said, via Diario AS.

Why Mourinho does not want another Mastantuono situation

The reason behind Mourinho’s patience is now clearer: the Real Madrid manager wants to avoid repeating what happened with Franco Mastantuono by exposing another young signing to excessive pressure too quickly.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Mourinho is deliberately protecting Diomande from the expectations surrounding his record-breaking transfer. Diario AS has likewise reported that the coach is taking everything step by step, allowing the teenager to adapt before pushing him toward a regular starting role.

The approach also gives Mourinho a way to maintain balance within his squad. Arda Guler and Brahim Diaz impressed during pre-season and have earned their opportunities, meaning immediately displacing established players for a $145million arrival could create unnecessary pressure both on Diomande and inside the dressing room.

The major disadvantage facing Al-Nassr is financial, with the club operating under restrictions imposed by the Saudi Pro League‘s Financial Monitoring Committee. The restrictions are reportedly linked to debts exceeding 800 million Saudi riyals, or around $213 million, stemming from previous spending commitments.

According to multiple Saudi outlets, the Public Investment Fund, which owns Al-Nassr, has tightened financial controls around the club. The executive management must therefore demonstrate that sufficient funds are available through revenue or other sources before making further significant additions to the squad.

That has made the current transfer window particularly difficult for a team with title ambitions. Al-Nassr has been largely prevented from registering new players, leaving Ronaldo’s side unable to match the recruitment pace of its biggest competitors.

Samu Costa is the major exception

There has been one significant exception to the restrictions. Portuguese midfielder Samu Costa joined Al-Nassr from Real Mallorca in early August for a reported fee of around $25.6 million, but further business has proved considerably more complicated.

Even retaining existing players has presented challenges. Saudi winger Abdulrahman Ghareeb’s expired contract has reportedly been caught up in the same financial and registration issues, with potential player departures among the factors that could create additional room for Al-Nassr.

Rivals continue to strengthen with European stars

The biggest concern for Al-Nassr is the growing gap in recruitment activity. While the club featuring Ronaldo has struggled to make significant additions, Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad have continued strengthening their squads with established names from European soccer, adding further quality to an already star-studded Saudi Pro League.

That recruitment strategy has transformed the league in recent seasons, with Saudi clubs increasingly competing for players who have spent years performing at the highest level in Europe. The ability of Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad to keep adding elite talent could become particularly significant as Al-Nassr attempts to defend its title.

Al-Ahli has been especially aggressive in building a squad around its international stars, combining major overseas arrivals, such as Francisco Trincao and Eduard Spertsyan, with an increasingly competitive domestic core. Al-Hilal, meanwhile, continues to possess one of the strongest squads in the country, consisting of new arriving trio Gabriel Martinelli, Crysencio Summerville, and Ollie Watkins. What’s more, Al-Ittihad remains another major force in the transfer market, after bringing in Jan-Carlo Simic, Dion Lopy, and Richard Rios.

The contrast is particularly frustrating for supporters because Al-Nassr is coming off a title-winning campaign and has Ronaldo as the centerpiece of its project. With rivals adding experienced European talent, concerns have naturally emerged over whether the current squad possesses enough depth to remain competitive throughout another demanding season.