SPORTING

‎Few rivalries in world sport evoke the drama, emotion, and grandeur of El Clasico—the eternal contest between Barcelona and Real Madrid. It's a spectacle shaped by politics, cultural identity, and controversy, but above all, by the players who have risen to define it. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi ' Ft. ' Cristiano Ronaldo. ' ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Spanning over a century, El Clasico has been the proving ground for the sport’s most gifted talents. While many legends have graced the pitch—Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldinho, Andres Iniesta, and Sergio Ramos among them—not all made consistent goal-scoring impact. The true legends of this fixture are those who rose to its greatest challenge and found the net time and again. ‎ ‎Here are the 10 greatest scorers in El Clasico history, ranked by goals scored across all official competitions. ‎ ‎1. Lionel Messi – 26 Goals (Barcelona, 2004–2021) ‎ ‎No one has dominated El Clasico like Lionel Messi. In 45 appearances, the Argentine ma...

‎Arsenal’s hopes for silverware this season were shattered once again as Mikel Arteta’s men fell to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. The 2-1 loss in Paris—courtesy of goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi—sealed a 3-1 aggregate defeat and confirmed yet another trophyless campaign for the Gunners, despite a season filled with promise. ‎ Arsenal fans call for Arteta's sacking after UCL heartbreak vs PSG. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The aftermath has been unforgiving. ‎ ‎Disappointed and frustrated, a vocal section of Arsenal fans has taken to social media with a clear message: the time has come for Arteta to go. The hashtag #ArtetaOut began trending within hours of the final whistle, echoing growing concerns over the manager’s tactical choices and squad management. ‎ ‎“Arteta failed to sign a centre-forward in January—here are the outcomes,” lamented one fan on X. “Trophyless again. I’m so disappointed in my club. Sorry but SACK ARTETA. Enough ...

‎Fabián Ruiz Peña, commonly known as Fabian Ruiz, has steadily risen to prominence as one of Spain’s most technically gifted midfielders. Known for his composure, tactical acumen, and versatility, Ruiz currently plies his trade with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the Spain national team. As of 2025, Fabian Ruiz’s net worth is estimated at $10 million , bolstered by lucrative club contracts, endorsements, and international appearances. ‎ ' Fabian Ruiz. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Early Life and Background ‎ ‎Born on April 3, 1996, in Los Palacios y Villafranca, Spain, Ruiz began his football journey at just eight years old with Real Betis’s youth academy. His dedication and football IQ saw him rise through the ranks to make his senior debut in 2014. ‎ ‎Club Career Highlights ‎ ‎ • Real Betis (2014–2018): Fabian became a regular for Betis, impressing with his left foot and vision. ‎ ‎ • Elche (Loan – 2016–17): Gained valuable experience on loan in Spain’s second tier....

‎Arsenal have launched urgent contract negotiations with French star William Saliba, reacting swiftly to Real Madrid’s long-term interest in the defender. According to fresh reports from L'Équipe, the Spanish giants are laying early groundwork to sign Saliba—either by lowering his fee over time or acquiring him on a free transfer in 2027. The move echoes Real Madrid's cautious but strategic approach to major signings, similar to their previous pursuit of Kylian Mbappe. ‎ ‎' William Saliba. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta, recently appointed to lead the Gunners’ footballing strategy, is determined not to repeat Paris Saint-Germain’s high-profile mistake with Mbappe, who left for free. Berta has already opened extension talks with Saliba, aiming to secure the 23-year-old’s long-term future well ahead of his contract expiry. ‎ ‎Real Madrid's admiration for Saliba stems from a combination of current squad vulnerabilities ...

‎Jamie Carragher has publicly supported Liverpool fans’ emotional response to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave the club for a likely move to Real Madrid, suggesting that the reaction is not only natural but justified. ‎ ‎' Trent Alexander-Arnold. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎The 26-year-old, who confirmed on Monday that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, is expected to join Real Madrid in what could be one of the most controversial exits of a homegrown talent in recent memory. Alexander-Arnold, an academy graduate and local icon, has spent two decades at Anfield, rising from boyhood fan to Champions League and Premier League winner. ‎ ‎But as Carragher writes in his Telegraph column, the sense of betrayal among Liverpool’s fanbase is real—and not simply a product of sentimentality. ‎ ‎“There is a simmering resentment from the local fanbase,” Carragher noted, “that [Alexander-Arnold] is trying to separate himself from ‘their own’, or thinks there...

‎It’s official: Trent Alexander-Arnold is leaving Liverpool. The Anfield academy graduate, long seen as the spiritual successor to Steven Gerrard, will depart his boyhood club at the end of the season—on a free transfer. His likely destination? Real Madrid. His goal? The Ballon d’Or. ‎ ‎' Trent Alexander-Arnold. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎For many Liverpool fans, this was the inevitable conclusion to a saga years in the making. There had been warning signs—particularly Alexander-Arnold’s 2023 interview with Sky Sports where he claimed winning the Ballon d'Or was more important to him than captaining Liverpool or lifting more trophies. “Don’t play the game, change the game,” he said. It was a line that didn’t just hint at ambition, but a shift in his sense of identity. ‎ ‎This wasn’t just a right-back chasing greatness anymore; it was a player willing to sacrifice legacy for the possibility—however remote—of individual glory. ‎ ‎A Dream Derailed ‎ ‎Alexander-Arnol...

‎Vincent Kompany has defied the critics and ended one of modern football’s strangest narratives — Harry Kane, the great striker cursed never to win a trophy. On a dramatic Bundesliga Sunday, Bayern Munich sealed their 34th German title after Bayer Leverkusen stumbled to a draw at Freiburg, confirming the Bavarians as champions with two games to spare. ‎ ‎' Harry Kane. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎For Kane, it’s the end of a long and winding wait. For Kompany, it’s vindication. ‎ ‎Few gave the Belgian a chance when he stepped into the Allianz Arena last May. Fresh off a dismal Premier League relegation campaign with Burnley, his appointment was met with widespread skepticism — including thinly veiled digs from former boss Sean Dyche. Bayern’s failed pursuit of elite names like Xabi Alonso and Julian Nagelsmann left Kompany as an unexpected solution. But the club's sporting director, Max Eberl, believed in his vision and pedigree, and that faith has been emphatically...

‎Barcelona may soon be at a crossroads. According to reports from Fichajes, Premier League champions Liverpool are preparing a €40 million bid to sign Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong — a move that could force a difficult decision at the Camp Nou. ‎ ‎' Frenkie de Jong. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎New Liverpool manager Arne Slot, fresh off guiding the Reds to a title-winning campaign, is eager to reshape his midfield around players he trusts. Frenkie de Jong, a player Slot knows well from their shared Dutch football roots, has emerged as a prime target to orchestrate his vision. ‎ ‎Despite being under contract with Barcelona until 2026, De Jong’s name has surfaced once again in transfer discussions. The driving force behind this renewed interest? Barcelona’s persistent financial woes. The Catalan club’s delicate economic situation has made them more receptive to sizable offers — and €40 million is nothing to ignore. ‎ ‎Key to Slot’s Strategy ‎Liverpool’s midfield alrea...

‎Lionel Messi’s transition into Major League Soccer continues to generate headlines—not just for his goals and assists, but for how little resistance he’s facing from defenders. Speaking on MLS Wrap-Up, soccer analyst Andrew Wiebe pointed to a growing issue in the league: defenders are too afraid of being humiliated by the Argentine legend. ‎ ‎' L. Messi. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎In Inter Miami’s most recent outings, Messi has had ample time and space to dictate play, link up with long-time teammate Luis Suárez, and orchestrate dominant performances. This stands in sharp contrast to his tougher battles in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where CF Monterrey pressured Messi aggressively and with effect. ‎ ‎“It’s the fear,” Wiebe said on the show. “Nobody wants to close in on Messi, no one wants to get embarrassed. But then all of a sudden he sits, he waits, he finds the angle, and that’s a connection [with Suárez] we have seen hundreds of times.” ‎ ‎Messi’s aura, cultivat...

‎Cristiano Ronaldo is facing a wave of criticism from football fans around the world after Al-Nassr were knocked out of the AFC Champions League semi-finals by Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. Despite Ronaldo's prolific run in the tournament — netting eight goals in as many games — the Portuguese icon failed to deliver when it mattered most in the 3-2 defeat, extending his trophy drought in Saudi Arabia. ‎ ‎' Cristiano Ronaldo. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Al-Nassr’s hopes of continental glory were dashed in a single-legged semi-final clash, with goals from Sadio Mané and Ayman Yahya proving insufficient against the J1 League side’s clinical edge. Kawasaki's resilience and sharp finishing exposed weaknesses in Al-Nassr’s defense, and the team now exits the competition without silverware once again. ‎ ‎Ronaldo, who has scored 91 goals in 102 appearances since joining the Saudi club, was expected to be a decisive figure. However, his quiet performance in this crucial fi...

‎Lionel Messi, often hailed as the greatest footballer in history, commands not only accolades on the field but a fortune off it. As of 2025, Messi's net worth is estimated at $850 million, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in modern history. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Messi overcame early health challenges and financial hardship to become a global icon. After joining FC Barcelona in his teens, he amassed 672 goals in 778 appearances. His record-breaking contracts, including a 2017 Barcelona deal worth an average of $168 million per year, cemented his place at the pinnacle of sports earnings. ‎ ‎Beyond club football, Messi's international achievements include leading Argentina to a World Cup victory in 2022 and earning Olympic gold in 2008. His historic rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo has fueled global interest and lucrative brand opportunities. ‎ ‎Messi's Career Earnings: $1.6 Billion and C...

‎When Manchester City walk out to face Wolves on Friday, the absence of a small golden detail will speak volumes. For the first time since 2021, City’s right sleeves will bear the standard blue Premier League badge—no longer champions, no longer holders of English football’s crown. ‎ ‎ Guardiola loses crown to Liverpool, but City's rebuild begins: new keeper, Rodri's return, De Bruyne successor, and renewed hunger. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Pep Guardiola, the serial winner and perfectionist, finds himself in unfamiliar territory. Liverpool’s coronation last weekend officially ended City’s four-year reign. Even a Wembley victory that sent City into the FA Cup final couldn’t disguise the sting. Guardiola didn’t hide his disappointment: “Nooooo... We are a thousand million points behind Liverpool.” The actual gap is 21, but to Guardiola, that might as well be an eternity. ‎ ‎But history shows that Guardiola thrives on setbacks. Each time his teams have faltered, he has r...

‎Lamine Yamal, now at the age of 17, has become one of football's most exciting and talked-about young talents. From a debut that defied expectations to stunning performances in the world’s biggest competitions, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Here are some of the unforgettable moments that have cemented his place as one of the brightest stars in world football. ‎ ‎1. Youngest Player to Debut for FC Barcelona ‎ ‎Lamine Yamal made history on April 29, 2023, at just 15 years and 290 days old, becoming the youngest player to debut for FC Barcelona in La Liga. His appearance against Real Betis was more than just a milestone for Barcelona; it was a signal to the world that this teenager was destined for greatness. With his calm demeanor, sharp decision-making, and an eye for the perfect pass, Yamal looked every bit the seasoned professional. ‎ ‎2. Record-Breaking UEFA Champions League Appearance ‎ ‎Just month...

‎Lamine Yamal is quickly becoming a household name in global football, and at just 17 years old, he’s already making waves at FC Barcelona and in the Spanish national team. While fans admire his dazzling footwork and fearless attacking style, there’s more to Yamal than meets the eye.  ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Here are five things you probably didn’t know about this football prodigy. ‎ ‎1. He’s the Youngest Player to Debut for Barcelona in La Liga ‎ ‎Lamine Yamal made history in April 2023 when he became the youngest player ever to debut for FC Barcelona in a La Liga match, at just 15 years and 290 days old. His late substitution against Real Betis wasn’t just symbolic—it showcased Barça’s confidence in his raw talent and maturity. ‎ ‎2. He’s of Dual Heritage ‎ ‎Born in Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain, Yamal is of Equatoguinean and Moroccan descent. His multicultural background adds to his unique identity, and although he represents Spain at the internatio...

‎Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal delivered a performance for the ages on Wednesday night, inspiring his side to a pulsating 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League. At just 17 years old, the prodigious winger demonstrated composure, flair, and attacking menace beyond his years, scoring a breathtaking goal and tormenting the Inter defence from start to finish. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Inter had raced to a 2-0 lead at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, but Yamal’s brilliance sparked a spirited Barcelona comeback. His goal, a solo effort showcasing his dribbling and precise finishing, was a moment of pure class that ignited the home crowd and changed the tone of the match. ‎ ‎“He's special, he's a genius,” Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick told BBC Sport after the final whistle. “In the big matches, he shows up. If this kind of talent only comes around every 50 years, I’m glad it’s for Barcelona.” ‎ ‎Inter manager Simone Inz...

‎At just 17 years of age, Lamine Yamal has already accomplished what many footballers dream of over a lifetime. The FC Barcelona prodigy is not only a staple in Xavi’s first team but also a European Championship winner with Spain, and a recipient of both the Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy awards. With comparisons to Lionel Messi echoing through the football world, the buzz surrounding Yamal is growing louder by the day. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal ', ' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Yet, Real Madrid icon Guti has offered a grounded and nuanced perspective on the meteoric rise of the La Masia graduate. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Guti was generous in his praise—but also clear in his assessment: Yamal is not the best. Not yet, at least. ‎ ‎“He’s light years ahead of what I did,” Guti admitted. “But the best? What does being the best mean? It means performing at the highest level every single match—and he’s not there yet.” ‎ ‎The comment isn’t meant as criticism, but rath...

‎Sporting legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have secured their places among the highest-paid athletes of all time, according to a new list released by Sportico. The ranking, which combines career earnings from salaries and endorsements—but excludes investments—places Ronaldo at No. 3 and Messi at No. 5 on the all-time list. ‎ ‎ Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Al-Nassr FC forward Cristiano Ronaldo has amassed an estimated $1.92 billion throughout his career, landing just behind Tiger Woods ($2.79 billion) and all-time leader Michael Jordan, whose earnings tower at an unmatched $4.15 billion. Inter Miami CF’s Lionel Messi has reportedly earned $1.49 billion, placing him fifth overall, just behind NBA superstar LeBron James at $1.88 billion. ‎ ‎Top 5 Highest-Paid Athletes of All Time (per Sportico): ‎ ‎1 . Michael Jordan (Basketball) – $4.15 billion ‎ ‎2 . Tiger Woods (Golf) – $2.79 billion ‎ ‎3 . Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer) – $1.92 billion...

‎Barcelona are reportedly preparing to orchestrate one of football’s most emotional reunions, aiming to bring club legend Lionel Messi back in time for the grand reopening of the iconic Spotify Camp Nou in 2026. ‎ Barcelona plan to bring Lionel Messi back in 2026 to mark Camp Nou’s reopening, aiming for a legendary reunion with the Argentine icon. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The Argentine superstar, now 37, left the Catalan giants in 2021 due to financial constraints that prevented the club from renewing his contract. Since then, Messi has continued to dazzle on the global stage, guiding Argentina to World Cup triumph in 2022 and later moving to Major League Soccer to join Inter Miami, where he has played a pivotal role in the sport's growth in the United States. ‎ ‎According to a report from TNT Sports, Barcelona remain hopeful of reuniting with their all-time great. The club is said to be “slowly preparing” for a potential deal to bring Messi back following the 2026 FIFA World C...

‎The record for most goals scored in a single calendar year is one of football’s most prestigious — and fiercely debated — milestones. While FIFA doesn’t officially recognize an all-time record, several legendary names have earned a place in the Guinness World Records and football history books. ‎ ‎ Lionel Messi’s record 91 goals in 2012 remain unmatched. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎In 2012, Lionel Messi delivered an astonishing performance that saw him score 91 goals for club and country, breaking Gerd Muller’s 1972 record of 85. Of Messi’s 91 goals, 79 were for FC Barcelona and the remainder with the Argentine national team. ‎ ‎Although the Zambian Football Association claimed Godfrey Chitalu scored 113 goals in 1972, FIFA declined to officially acknowledge the record due to insufficient documentation. ‎ ‎Other icons follow closely behind. Pele recorded 75 goals in 1958, while Zico and Romario both achieved 72-goal calendar years. Cristiano Ronaldo appears multiple times in the top ...

‎Carlo Ancelotti’s long-anticipated move to become the next head coach of Brazil’s national team is reportedly facing fresh uncertainty, as the Italian manager raises serious concerns about political instability within the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the safety of living in the country. ‎ Ancelotti delays Brazil move due to CBF political chaos and security fears. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Ancelotti, currently at the helm of Real Madrid, was on the brink of accepting the Brazil job back in 2023. However, the appointment was derailed when CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues was removed from his role following a court ruling that declared his election illegitimate. Although Rodrigues was reinstated in January 2024, Ancelotti had by then renewed his contract with Real Madrid, leading the CBF to appoint Dorival Júnior on an interim basis. ‎ ‎Now, as Dorival’s time with the Selecao nears its end and Ancelotti’s Madrid chapter draws to a close on May 26, renewed talks betwe...