SPORTING

‎Bruno Fernandes, a key player for Manchester United, has emerged as a prime summer transfer target for Real Madrid, according to a recent report. As per the Daily Star, the Spanish giants have been keeping a close eye on Fernandes throughout the current season, with scouts attending United's matches at Old Trafford to assess the Portuguese midfielder's capabilities ahead of a potential move. ‎ ‎' Bruno Fernandes. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Real Madrid sees Fernandes as a long-term successor to Luka Modric, whose future at the club remains uncertain. United, however, are likely to demand a club-record fee to part ways with their star player, with reports suggesting that the asking price could exceed £90 million ($116 million), surpassing the £80 million Real Madrid paid for Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009. ‎ ‎Despite the interest from Madrid, Manchester United remains determined to retain Fernandes. However, the club's financial position, influenced by concerns over P...

‎Manchester United's manager, Ruben Amorim, is reportedly determined to retain Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford, despite mounting interest from Real Madrid. According to the Daily Star, the Spanish club has been closely monitoring Fernandes' performances, with scouts attending nearly every match he plays. Real Madrid sees the Portugal international as a potential successor to Luka Modric, who is nearing the end of his illustrious career. ‎ ‎' Ruben Amorim ', ' Bruno Fernandes. ' ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Amorim is eager to keep Fernandes in Manchester, having recognized the midfielder's pivotal role in the team's success. However, United may be forced to part ways with their star player due to ongoing financial issues. The club has struggled with its finances, and the sale of Fernandes could provide the necessary funds to strengthen the squad during the upcoming transfer window. ‎ ‎Fernandes has been in exceptional form this season, contributing 16...

‎Barcelona have successfully reclaimed their two-point lead atop La Liga, securing a resounding 4-1 victory over Girona. Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Barcelona produced a clinical performance, highlighted by Robert Lewandowski’s brace and Lamine Yamal’s deflected free-kick. ‎ ‎Barcelona player ratings vs Girona. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The match began with Barcelona exerting pressure early on. They dominated the opening 10 minutes, testing Girona's defense with several attempts on goal. Fermin Lopez, who was involved in the action early, thought he had won a penalty after being fouled in the area. However, a VAR review overturned the decision, awarding Girona a free-kick instead. ‎ ‎The first half saw Barcelona come close on numerous occasions. Ronald Araujo nearly opened the scoring with a header from a corner, but Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga made a remarkable save to deny him. Despite their efforts, Barcelona’s attack was frustrated by Girona’s resolute defense, ...

‎Inter Miami’s strategy for managing Lionel Messi’s workload in the 2025 season has been carefully outlined to ensure his continued success. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has been given a balanced schedule to maintain his peak form, with the club ensuring that he is capable of playing consecutive games without risking long-term injury. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Messi recently made a crucial impact in Inter Miami's 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union, coming off the bench to score just two minutes after his introduction. His goal helped secure three more points for the Herons, maintaining their unbeaten start to the season. ‎ ‎Despite his impressive contribution, Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, clarified that Messi’s playing time remains closely managed. Mascherano suggested Messi would participate in the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final against LAFC on Wednesday. In a recent press conference, he explained, “Th...

‎Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Sporting CP's highly-rated defender, Goncalo Inacio, with a summer move on the horizon. According to A Bola, Inacio has long been a target for the Red Devils, who have tracked his progress over the past few years. Although United initially focused on Leny Yoro, speculation around Inacio remains, leaving room for a potential future approach. ‎ ‎' Goncalo Inacio. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Sporting CP have set a firm price tag of €45 million (£38 million / $49 million) for the 22-year-old, signaling their reluctance to part ways with the defender for anything less. United’s recent transfer strategy has focused on younger talents with long-term potential, and Inacio fits perfectly into this model. Known for his composure on the ball, ability to play out from the back, and experience at both the club and international levels, Inacio represents a promising addition to United’s defense. ‎ ‎A defensive overhaul at Old Tra...

Former Chelsea star Adrian Mutu has openly admitted that his use of cocaine during his career cost him the chance to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or, a title he believes was well within his grasp. ‎ ‎' Adrian Mutu. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Mutu’s time at Chelsea was both brief and tumultuous. After joining the club from Parma, the Romanian forward initially showed promise. However, his tenure quickly spiraled following a falling-out with manager José Mourinho and struggles with personal issues. Mutu’s career in the Premier League came to an abrupt end when he was banned for eight months after testing positive for cocaine. This incident led to his dismissal from Chelsea, marking a disgraceful end to his time in London. ‎ ‎In a candid interview with The Telegraph, Mutu reflected on his decisions and the impact they had on his career. "Taking cocaine during my time at Chelsea was the worst decision I could have made," he confessed. "I was alone and ...

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has come under pressure to make a bold decision ahead of the 2026 World Cup – replacing Cristiano Ronaldo with a younger forward to give his team the best chance of success. ‎ ‎' Cristiano Ronaldo. ' ‎ Getty Images ‎ ‎Cristiano Ronaldo, who has led Portugal to victory in both the European Championship and Nations League, has yet to capture the elusive World Cup. However, as the Al-Nassr forward turns 40, questions are being raised about his ability to compete at the highest level. His physical decline and reduced influence on the pitch are becoming increasingly apparent. ‎ ‎Several former players and pundits, including ex-Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann, have voiced concerns over Ronaldo's place in the national team. Speaking to CardPlayer.com, Hamann noted, “Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact at the last European Championship was limited, and considering he will be another year older by the 2026 World Cup, his influence will likely de...

‎Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has reportedly made a firm decision regarding his future at AC Milan following the conclusion of his loan spell. Having joined the Serie A side in the January transfer window, the England international is expected to extend his tenure at Milan beyond this season. ‎ ' Kyle Walker. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Journalist Daniele Longo of Calciomercatoweb states that Milan hold a €5 million (£4.17m/$5.40m) purchase option for the right-back, which the club is eager to activate. Walker, who has settled well into life in Italy, is reportedly enthusiastic about continuing his career at Milan, signaling his desire to remain in Serie A rather than returning to the Premier League. ‎ ‎The move to Milan has proven beneficial for both player and club. Walker’s reduced role at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola this season made the switch to Serie A a logical solution. In contrast, at Milan, the seasoned full-back has integrated seamlessly int...

‎Premier League clubs, notably Manchester United and Arsenal, have reportedly been monitoring two promising talents from Olympiacos, Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas, over the past few months. Both players are widely regarded as key figures in Greece's emerging golden generation of footballers. Manchester United and Arsenal scout Olympiacos stars Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas. Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Mouzakitis, a left-footed central midfielder, made history in November by becoming the youngest-ever debutant for Greece in a senior international match against Finland. Meanwhile, Kostoulas, primarily a number nine or second striker, has garnered significant attention from several top clubs. ‎ ‎' Christos Mouzakitis. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Despite this interest, Olympiacos sporting director Darko Kovacevic has confirmed that Kostoulas will not be leaving the club anytime soon. He stated, "There is growing interest in ...

‎Manchester United has received a potential cash boost amid ongoing transfer speculation surrounding former academy graduate Mason Greenwood. Following a productive loan spell at Getafe in La Liga, the Red Devils agreed to part ways with the forward in the summer of 2024. Greenwood secured a £27 million ($35 million) transfer to French club Olympique de Marseille, where he has enjoyed a solid debut season at the Stade Vélodrome, netting 15 goals in Ligue 1. ‎ ‎' Mason Greenwood. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎However, despite his impressive performance on the field, Greenwood’s attitude has reportedly come under scrutiny by Marseille's manager Roberto De Zerbi, which has led to speculation about a possible departure. Recent rumors suggest that a move elsewhere may be on the horizon. ‎ ‎As the winter transfer window approaches, Ruben Amorim, Marseille’s manager, could potentially benefit from additional funds to strengthen his squad. Nonetheless, transfer expert Fabriz...

‎UEFA has initiated an investigation into Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos following their involvement in controversial incidents during Real Madrid’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 on March 12, 2025. ‎ ' Kylian Mbappe ' and ' Vinicius Jr. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎The investigation was prompted by reports of alleged "indecent conduct" by the players, with key incidents under scrutiny. One of the most notable involves Antonio Rudiger, who was captured on camera making a throat-slitting gesture, apparently directed at Atletico Madrid fans. Meanwhile, social media footage appears to show Mbappe making a crotch-grabbing gesture during post-match celebrations. ‎ ‎As part of the disciplinary process, UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the conduct of these players. If the investigation concludes with a guilty verdict, the invo...

AC Milan’s ongoing search for a new sporting director has created uncertainty surrounding Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s future at the club, which could have wider implications for Arsenal. According to reports from Italy, the iconic striker’s current role at Milan may be at risk as the club’s leadership undergoes a shift. ' Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ' Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Ibrahimovic, who has taken on an executive position at AC Milan as an advisor to the club’s RedBird ownership, has been a prominent figure in key footballing decisions. His influence extended to hiring coaches such as Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceicao, and even interviewing candidates for the sporting director role. However, his position appears to be evolving, with Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani now tasked with overseeing sporting matters after discussions with RedBird’s Gerry Cardinale. ‎ ‎The 2025-26 season could mark a turning point for Ibrahimovic’s involvement at Milan, especially as his presence has been nota...

‎Ex-Arsenal midfielder Anders Limpar has suggested that Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be the perfect candidate to replace Edu Gaspar as Arsenal's sporting director, following Edu’s surprise resignation in November 2024. Limpar described the potential acquisition of the AC Milan legend as a "dream," commending Ibrahimovic's remarkable mentality and leadership qualities. ‎ ‎' Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Edu Gaspar’s resignation from his position as sporting director of Arsenal came in November 2024, as he decided to take on a new challenge with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Reflecting on his departure, Edu expressed deep affection for Arsenal, stating, “Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.” ‎ ‎With the role of sporting director now vacant, Limpar has voiced strong support for Ibrahimovic to step in and take over the position. Currently serving in ...

‎Jadon Sancho’s return to Manchester United has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some fearing that the winger is subtly preparing for a summer comeback. Currently on loan at Chelsea, Sancho's turbulent stint at Old Trafford has been marred by a high-profile fallout with former manager Erik ten Hag. This fallout, along with persistent off-field drama, has led many to question his future at the club. ‎ ‎' Jadon Sancho. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎However, a recent Instagram post from Manchester United has reignited speculation. The club shared a birthday message for Sancho, wishing him a happy 25th birthday alongside an image of the winger wearing a United shirt. In response, Sancho shared a positive reply on his own Instagram story, thanking the club for the birthday wish. While the exchange appeared cordial, United fans were quick to express concern over the possibility of his return. ‎ sancho/Instagram ‎ ‎“I’m dreading it, he’s coming back,” on...

‎England's 3-0 triumph over Latvia in a Group K qualifier was never in doubt, given the disparity in rankings, with Latvia sitting 140th in the world. However, the true focus wasn’t on the result but on the style and execution of the victory. Was this a demonstration of the famed English arrogance? Perhaps. The more pressing question was whether new manager Thomas Tuchel's tactical messages were being communicated effectively, offering glimpses of his vision for the team. ‎ ‎' Jude Bellingham. ' ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎In the 75th minute, just after Harry Kane's second goal, a Mexican wave rippled through Wembley, signaling a moment of pure enjoyment for the home crowd. The third goal came shortly thereafter when substitute Eberechi Eze’s shot deflected off Latvia's captain, Antonijs Cernomordijs, for England's third. A bright spot earlier came with Reece James' stunning 25-yard free-kick, his first international goal in his first start for England...

‎Spain clinched their place in the semi-finals of the Nations League after a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands. The thrilling encounter, which ended 4-4 on aggregate, saw La Roja triumph in a nail-biting shootout after an action-packed 120 minutes at De Kuip. ‎ ‎Spain secures semi-final berth in Nations League after thrilling 5-4 penalty win over Netherlands following 4-4 aggregate draw. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The first leg of the quarter-final had ended in a 2-2 draw, with Mikel Merino's injury-time goal rescuing the defending champions. Heading into the second leg, Spain was determined to take control, starting strong with a dominating possession game. Their efforts paid off early when Mikel Oyarzabal won a penalty after being fouled by Jan Paul van Hecke. The Real Sociedad forward coolly slotted it past Bart Verbruggen to give Spain an aggregate lead. ‎ ‎Despite Spain's dominance, Nico Williams missed two clear chances to extend their ...

‎Cristiano Ronaldo has once again etched his name in history, receiving a Guinness World Record for the most international football wins. This accolade further solidifies his legendary status in the sport. ‎ ‎' C. Ronaldo. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎In November of the previous year, Ronaldo marked yet another milestone in his illustrious career when Portugal defeated Poland 5-1. As the team’s captain, Ronaldo scored twice, bringing his international win tally to 132 and surpassing the previous record held by former Real Madrid teammate, Sergio Ramos. ‎ ‎Ahead of Portugal's Nations League quarter-final match against Denmark at Estadio Jose Alvalade, Ronaldo was formally presented with the Guinness World Record plaque, recognizing him as the player with the most wins in international football. ‎ X ‎ ‎This achievement adds to Ronaldo's extensive collection of records, including the most goals in international football, the first player to score 100 goals in...

‎Cristiano Ronaldo, the star captain of Portugal, has come under fire after his penalty miss in the Nations League quarter-final against Denmark, with many branding it the "worst penalty ever." The incident occurred early in the second leg of the match on Sunday, when Ronaldo was awarded a penalty after winning a foul in the box. Despite the high stakes—Portugal trailing 1-0 on aggregate from the first leg—Ronaldo's poorly executed spot-kick was easily saved by Denmark's goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, playing for Celtic. ‎ ' C. Ronaldo. ' Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The moment quickly became the talk of social media, with fans voicing their displeasure over Ronaldo’s performance. One user, @Elmi218, commented on Twitter, "That is the worst penalty ever taken." Another fan, @kokkikumar98, was equally critical, writing, "LOL, that's the worst penalty Ronaldo has ever taken. Literally just passed the ball to the keeper." A third use...

‎The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which features 32 teams from around the globe, will proceed without Barcelona's participation. This year's tournament, expanded to accommodate teams from all major football confederations—AFC, CAF, Concacaf, OFC, and UEFA—will be held across the United States. ‎ ‎FC Barcelona 's ' Robert Lewandowski. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Among the 32 qualified teams, 12 hail from Europe, including the most recent UEFA Champions League winners: Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Chelsea. The remaining European teams were selected based on a ranking system considering their performances over the last four seasons. However, a significant restriction limits each country to two qualifying teams. As Real Madrid secured automatic entry due to their two Champions League victories in 2022 and 2024, only one other Spanish club could join. ‎ ‎Despite Barcelona's La Liga title in 2023, their lackluster performances in recent Champions League cam...

‎Newcastle United secured a historic 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday, ending a 70-year wait for domestic silverware. The Magpies claimed their first trophy since 1955 in a dramatic Carabao Cup final at Wembley, thanks to a brilliant performance from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak. ‎ ‎' Mo Salah. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Burn, a lifelong Newcastle supporter, opened the scoring just before halftime with a powerful header from a corner. Early in the second half, Isak doubled the Magpies’ lead with a composed finish from a Jacob Murphy assist, moments after a disallowed goal due to offside. ‎ ‎Liverpool, coming off a midweek Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain, struggled to find their rhythm. Although Federico Chiesa scored a late goal for the Reds, VAR confirmed he was onside, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Despite some late pressure, Newcastle’s resilience saw them through for a well-deserved victory. ‎ ‎One of the key talking points after the match was t...