MADRID.

‎Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been punished by Olympique de Marseille after a strange late-night episode at the club’s training centre resulted in disciplinary action ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Le Havre AC. ‎ ‎Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was excluded from Marseille’s clash with Le Havre after reportedly leading a fire-extinguisher prank at training. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎As reported by L’Équipe, the former Arsenal and Barcelona forward was removed from the squad after allegedly taking a leading role in an incident involving several teammates at Marseille’s sporting residence on Thursday evening. ‎ ‎Players are believed to have become increasingly irritated by repeated overnight stays at the facility. In an effort to lift spirits inside the camp, Aubameyang reportedly guided a group of around 10 squad members through different parts of the building, creating disruption late into the night. ‎ ‎The situation escalated when a fire extinguisher was allegedly used during t...

‎Manchester United icon Paul Scholes believes Arsenal’s current success under Mikel Arteta will not guarantee them recognition among the greatest teams in English football history. ‎ ‎The Gunners are on course to secure their first Premier League title since 2004 and have also reached the Champions League final, where they will face Paris Saint-Germain. Yet Scholes remains unconvinced by the team’s overall quality and entertainment value. ‎ Manchester United legend Paul Scholes says Arsenal’s football under Mikel Arteta is “boring” despite the club chasing a Premier League and Champions League double. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The former United star questioned whether Arsenal’s football deserves lasting admiration despite their impressive position in both competitions. Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football podcast, Scholes suggested the side lacks the excitement associated with legendary champions. ‎ ‎“I don’t think they’re the best champions we’ll ever see,” he said....

Arsenal are preparing to hand Mikel Arteta a lucrative new contract this summer, regardless of how the Premier League title race or Champions League campaign concludes. The decision was reportedly made by the club’s hierarchy back in March as they look to secure the Spaniard’s long-term future at the Emirates Stadium. ‎ ‎Arsenal are preparing a new contract for Mikel Arteta this summer as the club continue their Premier League and Champions League chase. ‎Getty Images Sport  Arteta has remained fully concentrated on Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware, but the manager is said to still be deeply committed to the project he has built in North London. Since taking charge in December 2019 after serving as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, the Spanish coach has overseen a major transformation at the club. During his time in charge, Arteta has already guided Arsenal to FA Cup success as well as two Community Shield triumphs. His impact has convinced the club’s leaders...

Arsenal have booked their place in the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years, yet their semi-final success against Atletico Madrid has sparked major controversy in Spain. The aftermath has been dominated by strong accusations from Madrid mayor Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida, who has claimed the tie was manipulated to favor the English club. ‎ ‎Madrid mayor Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida alleges UEFA rigged Atletico’s Champions League semi-final defeat to Arsenal after controversial officiating decisions. ‎Getty Images Sport  Following Arsenal’s 2-1 aggregate win, confirmed by Bukayo Saka’s decisive goal on Tuesday, Martinez-Almeida publicly questioned the fairness of the competition. He argued that Atletico were not simply facing Mikel Arteta’s team but were instead battling against decisions influenced by European football’s governing authority. In remarks delivered on Wednesday, the mayor expressed disbelief over the circumstances surrounding the match. He sug...

Ahead of a must-win encounter, Olympique de Marseille manager Habib Beye has clarified the situation surrounding Mason Greenwood after his unexpected absence from the starting XI against OGC Nice. ‎ ‎Marseille coach Habib Beye gives key Mason Greenwood injury update before Nantes clash as Ligue 1 top-four battle heats up with Champions League at stake. ‎Getty Images Sport  Manager addresses speculation The omission led to widespread questions, but Beye quickly put rumours to rest. He revealed that Greenwood personally reported he was unable to start due to pain, following medical assessment on matchday. Since then, the forward’s condition has shown improvement. The decision to limit his minutes last time out has aided his recovery, allowing him to regain a better physical level during training sessions this week. Greenwood’s influence remains undeniable, with 25 goals from 41 appearances highlighting his importance to Marseille’s attacking output this campaign. Physical...

Arsenal FC produced a commanding display at the Emirates, easing past Fulham FC with a 3-0 triumph that strengthened their grip at the top of the Premier League standings. The spotlight firmly belonged to Bukayo Saka, who marked his first league start since March in emphatic fashion. Having only just returned from an Achilles issue during the midweek clash with Atletico Madrid, the winger delivered both a goal and an assist, showing no signs of rust in a crucial encounter. ‎ Bukayo Saka dazzles with a goal and assist as Arsenal beat Fulham 3-0 at the Emirates, extending their lead at the top with a commanding display. ‎Getty Images Sport  Saka proved unplayable in the opening half, repeatedly troubling Antonee Robinson. His dazzling run set up Viktor Gyokeres for a simple finish after leaving Raul Jimenez behind. He then doubled the advantage himself, finishing clinically at the near post after combining once again with Gyokeres. The third goal arrived before the interv...

Atletico Madrid recovered to claim a 1-1 result against Arsenal in the opening leg of their Champions League semi-final clash, with Julian Alvarez converting from the penalty spot to cancel out Viktor Gyokeres’ earlier effort. ‎ ‎Atletico Madrid earn a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final first leg, with Julian Alvarez scoring and VAR sparing David Hancko. ‎Getty Images Sport  The visitors edged ahead just before the interval when Gyokeres was brought down inside the area by David Hancko, and the striker confidently dispatched the resulting penalty. Prior to that, opportunities had been limited, although Alvarez tested David Raya with a powerful attempt, while Noni Madueke sent a shot narrowly off target. After the restart, Diego Simeone altered his system to a 3-4-3 setup, which shifted the momentum. Atletico emerged with greater urgency, creating a string of chances. Alvarez went close from a free-kick, Ademola Lookman’s effort was denied by Ray...

‎Arsenal are actively assessing attacking reinforcements ahead of the summer, and one name under close observation is Endrick. The forward’s situation at Real Madrid has become less certain, particularly as he continues to impress during his loan spell with Lyon. ‎ ‎Arsenal are monitoring Endrick’s progress at Lyon as doubts over his Real Madrid future grow, with Arteta seeking a versatile forward for next season. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The north London side are planning changes in their forward department after a season in which their output in front of goal has faced strong criticism. Big-money signing Viktor Gyokeres has not fully silenced doubts about his ability to lead a title-winning attack, prompting further evaluation of options. ‎ ‎Potential departures are also shaping Arsenal’s thinking. Gabriel Jesus is expected to move on, while the futures of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli remain unclear. In response, Mikel Arteta is targeting a forward capable o...

Mikel Arteta has called on Bukayo Saka to step up and make a defining contribution as Arsenal push for the Premier League title in the closing stretch of the season. The Arsenal manager is counting on the winger’s return from an Achilles issue to provide the spark needed in a tightly contested race with Manchester City. With only a handful of games left, every moment carries weight. ‎ ‎Mikel Arteta calls on Bukayo Saka to make a decisive impact as Arsenal battle Manchester City for the title, with the winger returning from injury. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ Saka is expected to be included in the squad for Saturday’s key home clash against Newcastle United, marking a significant boost for the Gunners. The England international has been absent since the Carabao Cup final, during which time Arsenal managed just one win in five matches. His return comes at a pivotal stage, particularly as Arsenal attempt to recover from back-to-back defeats that have dented their position in th...

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice insisted after the defeat to Manchester City that the title fight is still alive, stressing, “It’s not done.” That belief is backed by City’s narrow 1-0 win over Burnley, which took them top only on goals scored, keeping the race extremely tight. ‎ Arsenal's title race with Man City heats up as Arteta faces calls to attack more, with crucial games ahead that could decide the Premier League crown. ‎Getty/GOAL ‎ City’s early strike through Erling Haaland suggested they might significantly boost their goal difference. They dominated chances, registering 28 shots with nine on target, yet could only convert once. The lack of clinical finishing left an opening Arsenal will see as encouragement. Haaland himself dismissed concerns over missed opportunities, stating that securing three points was the priority. Still, the failure to score more against Burnley is seen as a wasted chance that could influence the momentum of the title race. For Arsenal...

William Saliba has delivered a passionate rallying cry to his Arsenal teammates as the Premier League title race enters its final five weeks, insisting they must show complete commitment after a nine-point advantage slipped away. The defender warned that anything short of total sacrifice could result in another second-place finish at the Emirates Stadium. William Saliba urges Arsenal to show total commitment after losing a nine-point lead, as the Premier League title race tightens against Man City late. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ Arsenal’s hold on top spot has weakened after successive 2-1 defeats to Bournemouth and Manchester City. Those results saw Mikel Arteta’s side drop into second place, with Manchester City moving ahead on goal difference as the season reaches its decisive stage. The Gunners’ repeated struggles in April under Arteta have once again resurfaced, with a crucial home clash against Newcastle United now vital to their hopes. Saliba stressed the need for co...

‎Former Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has spoken candidly about his decision to move on from north London, admitting his enthusiasm for football faded toward the end of his spell at the Emirates. ‎ ‎During his final months under Mikel Arteta, the Italian found himself playing a reduced role, often coming off the bench rather than starting matches. He acknowledged that the lack of consistent involvement, combined with a strict tactical structure, made it difficult to feel valued within the squad. ‎ Jorginho reveals why he left Arsenal, citing limited minutes, tactical demands, and a desire to rediscover joy, while offering advice for the title race. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎After joining from Chelsea in 2023, Jorginho featured regularly but struggled to secure a permanent starting spot. Across 79 appearances, only 27 came in the starting lineup. That situation, he explained, impacted his mindset and connection to the game. ‎ ‎Seeking a fresh start, he left Arsenal on a free t...

‎Arsenal are reportedly set to compete directly with Liverpool in the pursuit of a major summer transfer target, as both clubs prepare for a heated market battle. ‎ ‎According to Fichajes, Newcastle United winger Anthony Jordan has emerged as a key name in the race, attracting strong interest from both Premier League sides. ‎ ‎Arsenal and Liverpool are set to battle for Newcastle winger Anthony Jordan, valued up to €95m, as Salah’s future exit shapes transfer plans this summer. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Arsenal are said to have placed Jordan high on their priority list, viewing him as an important piece in reshaping Mikel Arteta’s long-term project at the club. ‎ ‎The 25-year-old remains under contract with Newcastle United until the summer of 2030, giving the Magpies a strong negotiating position. ‎ ‎Jordan’s profile is considered highly compatible with Arteta’s tactical system, offering speed, close control in dribbling, and strong defensive work rate. ‎ ‎Reports sugges...

‎Transfer speculation surrounding Julian Alvarez has sparked a firm response from Enrique Cerezo, who insists the striker will remain at Atletico Madrid despite attention from Europe’s elite. ‎ Enrique Cerezo hits out at transfer rumours linking Julian Alvarez with Arsenal and Barcelona, confirming Atletico Madrid have no plans to sell. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The Atletico president addressed the situation publicly before facing Barcelona, expressing clear frustration at the ongoing reports. He warned that coverage of Alvarez’s future had gone too far, reiterating that the forward is tied to the club through a long-term contract. Signed from Manchester City for £82 million in a deal overseen by Andrea Berta, the club has no desire to part ways with the attacker. ‎ ‎Interest in Alvarez continues to grow, particularly from Barcelona, who view him as a long-term option to succeed Robert Lewandowski. In a recent meeting between the sides, Lewandowski delivered a late winner a...

‎Marc Cucurella, Chelsea’s full-back, has addressed the controversy that overshadowed the Spain vs Egypt friendly match in Barcelona. ‎ ‎The game, played at RCDE Stadium, ended 0-0 but was disrupted by incidents that drew widespread criticism from fans and football authorities. ‎ Marc Cucurella comments on Spain vs Egypt friendly controversy in Barcelona, condemning anti-Islamic chants and reflecting on crowd reaction and debut moment. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎The first signs of tension came when sections of the crowd booed the Egyptian national anthem. Later, around the 20-minute mark, some supporters began chanting anti-Islamic slogans, which continued despite repeated warnings over the stadium speakers. ‎ ‎The situation triggered strong reactions across football circles. The Spanish Football Federation and national team coach Luis de la Fuente both condemned the behaviour, while Lamine Yamal, who has confirmed he is Muslim, described the chants as “unacceptable ignorance an...

‎Mikel Arteta chose to use Bukayo Saka in a more central attacking position during Arsenal’s FA Cup fourth-round clash with Wigan on Sunday, and the tactical move helped his side secure a commanding 4-0 victory. The Arsenal manager later explained that the positional switch was something he had been eager to test and hinted it may become a more frequent option going forward. ‎ ‎Arsenal delivered a dominant FA Cup performance against Wigan as Mikel Arteta tested Bukayo Saka in a central role. The tactical switch could influence future matches this season. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎Arsenal booked their place in the fifth round of the FA Cup with an impressive performance. Although Saka was initially named among the substitutes, he was drafted into the starting lineup after Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury during the warm-up. Instead of playing Saka in his usual wide role, Arteta positioned him as a No. 8. The change worked well as Arsenal quickly overwhelmed Wigan, scor...

‎Premier League icon Alan Shearer has suggested that Arsenal attacker Eberechi Eze appeared disoriented during the 1-1 stalemate against Brentford, a result that slowed Mikel Arteta’s team in the title chase. Meanwhile, Manchester City have increased pressure after reducing Arsenal’s lead at the summit to four points. ‎ ‎Alan Shearer criticizes Eberechi Eze’s performance in Arsenal’s draw with Brentford while Manchester City close the Premier League title gap. Full match analysis, squad concerns, and title race insight. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Eze had made a bright start to life at Arsenal, highlighted by a hat-trick performance against Tottenham Hotspur in a north London derby victory. Despite that explosive beginning, the England international — linked to the England national football team — has struggled for consistency at the Emirates. The Brentford match marked his first league start since December 13. ‎ ‎His outing lasted just 45 minutes, with the game still score...

‎Arsenal attacker Kai Havertz is preparing for another period out of action after suffering a new injury. The German international has already missed a large portion of the 2025-26 campaign due to several fitness setbacks, and he is now expected to be unavailable for a number of upcoming games. Among the matches he is likely to miss is next weekend’s north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. ‎ ‎Arsenal forward Kai Havertz faces another injury setback, with reports suggesting he will miss multiple matches including the upcoming north London derby against Tottenham. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Havertz’s season has already been heavily interrupted. Toward the end of the 2024-25 season, he was recovering from a hamstring problem that kept him out for the final three months. Shortly after the start of the 2025-26 season, he then sustained a knee injury just one week in, which kept him sidelined for around four-and-a-half months before he returned during the first half of Jan...

‎Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has shown support for Thomas Frank following his dismissal by north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. Spurs are currently only five points above the Premier League relegation places after failing to secure a single domestic victory in 2026, even though they managed to finish fourth during the Champions League league phase. ‎ ‎Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta shares sympathy for Thomas Frank after Tottenham sack him following poor results, with Spurs sitting just five points above the Premier League relegation zone. ‎Getty (2) ‎ ‎Frank’s departure comes after what has been described statistically as the worst managerial record ever recorded by a Premier League big-six club. Tottenham now face genuine danger of being pulled into a relegation battle after going eight league fixtures without registering a win. The club officially confirmed Frank’s dismissal on Wednesday. ‎ ‎In an official statement, Tottenham said they had decided to change th...

‎Raheem Sterling has been advised to explore a dramatic transfer to Wrexham as a way to reignite his enthusiasm for football. Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown believes the Hollywood-supported Welsh club could provide the perfect solution for the winger’s stalled momentum. Brown also hinted that Wrexham might attempt an ambitious move for Sterling’s ex-Manchester City teammate John Stones, who he thinks could influence games at a lower level much like Granit Xhaka has done. ‎ ‎Ex-Man United star Wes Brown says Wrexham could help Raheem Sterling rediscover football joy, while John Stones is tipped as a future lower-league game controller like Granit Xhaka. ‎Getty (2) ‎ ‎Previously considered one of England’s most dangerous attackers, Sterling now faces an uncertain next step. Following his departure from Chelsea and ongoing search for a new club, Brown proposed a surprising idea — relocating to Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground in a move that would stun the football worl...