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Arsenal have been identified as a possible destination for Kylian Mbappé as uncertainty continues to grow around the forward’s future at Real Madrid. Former Arsenal and France midfielder Emmanuel Petit believes the north London club could benefit if tensions inside the Spanish giants continue to escalate. ‎ ‎Emmanuel Petit says Arsenal could be the perfect destination for Kylian Mbappe amid growing unrest at Real Madrid. ‎Getty Images Sport   Petit Believes Arsenal Suit Mbappe Perfectly Petit suggested that Arsenal’s current system under Mikel Arteta would be an ideal match for Mbappe, particularly on the left side of attack. According to the former midfielder, the French superstar could fit seamlessly into the Gunners’ tactical set-up if his time in Spain comes to an unexpected end. Speaking to BOYLE Sports, Petit said: “Arsenal would love Kylian Mbappe and he’d be perfect on their left wing. The only reason I think Mbappe will stay at Real Madrid is because if he leav...

Lionel Messi has offered a measured verdict on the leading contenders for the 2026 World Cup, admitting that several nations appear better prepared than reigning champions Argentina ahead of the competition in North America. ‎ ‎Lionel Messi says Portugal, France, Spain and Brazil look stronger than Argentina ahead of the 2026 World Cup as the Inter Miami star assesses the favourites. ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ The Argentina national football team captain believes the defending world champions are not entering the tournament as the clear favourites despite their triumph in Qatar. Instead, the Inter Miami CF star pointed to four countries he feels are currently in stronger shape. During an interview with Argentine journalist Pollo Alvarez, Messi stressed that Argentina must remain realistic about its standing among football’s elite. “We have to realise that ahead of us there are other favourites, who are arriving in better shape,” he explained. One of the standout teams mentioned by...

‎Former MLS forward Bradley Wright-Phillips has advised Cristiano Ronaldo against making a move to Major League Soccer, suggesting the Portuguese icon may not enjoy the same success that Lionel Messi has experienced with Inter Miami CF. ‎ ‎Bradley Wright-Phillips warns Cristiano Ronaldo against joining MLS, claiming Lionel Messi still has the “magic” needed to dominate the league. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎Ronaldo, who currently represents Al-Nassr FC in the Saudi Pro League, has regularly been linked with a future switch to the United States before ending his playing career. However, Wright-Phillips believes the demands of MLS, combined with the pressure placed on global superstars, could create difficulties for the 41-year-old forward. ‎ ‎The former New York Red Bulls striker argued that Messi still possesses the ability to influence matches at the highest level, something he is uncertain Ronaldo can consistently produce in MLS. ‎ ‎Speaking through Covers.com soccer bettin...

‎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...

‎Thierry Henry has shared his view on the long-running debate over football’s greatest player, choosing not to separate Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Arsenal and France legend likened their rivalry to tennis icons Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, saying both belong in a category of their own. ‎ ‎Thierry Henry compares Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Federer and Nadal, refusing GOAT debate and praising their longevity, records, and impact in football. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎A rivalry beyond comparison ‎ ‎Speaking at an event in London during an interview with Marca, Henry dismissed the idea of naming a single GOAT. He argued that fans should appreciate both players instead of dividing them. ‎ ‎Henry explained: “It is a mistake. Why do people want to separate them, if they can enjoy them all? Of course, I played with Leo, and I prefer him for a sentimental reason, but that's why I will never go against Cristiano. Both are on the football moon. They are fr...

‎Lionel Messi has placed Lamine Yamal firmly at the centre of football’s future, describing the Barcelona youngster as the player who stands out above all others. Speaking at an Adidas event, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner expressed total confidence in the teenager’s rise. ‎ ‎At an Adidas event, Lionel Messi praised Lamine Yamal as his natural heir, calling the Barcelona teenager the best in world football with a huge future. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎Messi explained that while many young players are emerging, Yamal is the one he would choose without hesitation. He stated that based on what the winger has already achieved and what lies ahead, there is no uncertainty in his mind that the Barcelona talent is currently the best. ‎ ‎The Spanish club’s prodigy, developed at La Masia, has already taken on enormous responsibility at Camp Nou, including wearing the iconic No.10 shirt once associated with Messi himself. His rapid development has drawn constant comparisons wi...

‎Uncertainty surrounding Vinicius Junior’s future at Real Madrid has reportedly attracted strong interest from Manchester City, who are now monitoring the situation closely as his contract enters its final year. ‎ ‎Vinicius Jr’s Real Madrid future remains uncertain as contract talks stall, with Man City and other Premier League clubs monitoring a potential transfer. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The Brazilian forward has yet to reach an agreement over an extension, with discussions between the player and Real Madrid remaining at a standstill since last summer. The main complication is believed to be related to wages, as Vinicius is said to be requesting parity with teammate Kylian Mbappe, a demand that has created tension in negotiations. ‎ ‎This financial disagreement has left Real Madrid in a difficult position, as club president Florentino Perez may be forced to consider a major decision if no agreement is reached. This summer could represent the final opportunity for the cl...

Bayern Munich are facing complications in their efforts to tie down Konrad Laimer to a new long-term contract, with discussions currently failing to move forward. Sporting director Max Eberl admitted that both sides remain far apart in negotiations despite their shared intention to continue working together. ‎ ‎Bayern Munich and Konrad Laimer remain locked in difficult contract negotiations as wage demands continue to delay a long-term agreement. ‎Getty Images Sport  The Austrian midfielder has grown into one of the club’s most dependable players since arriving in 2023. However, Bayern’s stricter approach toward salaries has reportedly become a major obstacle during talks. Speaking to Sky before Bayern’s match against Wolfsburg, Eberl openly acknowledged the current deadlock surrounding Laimer’s future. “There are two points of view that currently do not match each other. We want to extend with Konni, that is a fact. Now we have to somehow find a bridge regarding the ex...

‎Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has described Luis Enrique as the finest manager in world football after the club secured a second straight appearance in the Champions League final. ‎ ‎PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi praised Luis Enrique as the world’s best coach after Paris Saint-Germain reached another Champions League final. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The French champions advanced to the decisive match after overcoming FC Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate in the semi-finals. PSG entered the second leg with a narrow advantage following a thrilling 5-4 victory in Paris before earning a 1-1 draw in Bavaria on Wednesday to seal qualification. Enrique’s side will now meet Arsenal F.C. in Budapest on May 30. ‎ ‎Following the achievement, Al-Khelaifi spoke highly of the former FC Barcelona coach and credited him for reshaping the identity of the club since arriving in 2023. The PSG chief believes the Spaniard has turned the squad into a disciplined and united col...

Real Madrid are facing serious internal unrest after a violent altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni reportedly ended with Valverde being taken to hospital. The incident has intensified pressure within the club and forced Alvaro Arbeloa to intervene urgently. ‎ Real Madrid turmoil after Valverde and Tchouameni altercation reportedly ends in hospital visit, with Arbeloa calling crisis talks before El Clasico vs Barcelona. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The dispute began during training on Wednesday when tensions rose over a foul. By Thursday, the disagreement escalated into a physical confrontation at Valdebebas, worsening an already strained relationship between the two players. Earlier tension also included a refusal by Valverde to shake Tchouameni’s hand after their initial clash. ‎ ‎Marca report that the situation turned more serious inside the dressing room, where an accidental blow left Valverde injured with a cut. He subsequently required emergency ...

‎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...

Amad Diallo has described the dramatic improvement inside Manchester United since Michael Carrick stepped into the managerial role. The winger pointed to a stronger sense of togetherness within the squad and explained how the atmosphere at Old Trafford has completely changed during the second half of the season. ‎ Amad Diallo reveals how Michael Carrick changed Manchester United’s dressing room culture, creating unity and pushing the club into the top-four race. ‎Getty Images Sport  Carrick, who took over on January 13, has overseen an impressive run of form. Under his leadership, United have recorded 10 victories, two draws, and only two defeats across 14 matches. Amad has played a major role during that period and continues to be an important figure for the club after extending his deal until June 30, 2030. Speaking with Sky Sports, the 23-year-old praised the relationship Carrick has built with the players. According to Amad, the interim manager’s communication and c...

A damaging 3-0 defeat to FC Nantes has intensified criticism surrounding Mason Greenwood, with former Olympique de Marseille striker Christophe Dugarry delivering a fierce public attack on the forward. ‎ ‎Mason Greenwood received fierce criticism from Christophe Dugarry after Marseille’s damaging Ligue 1 defeat to Nantes. ‎Getty Images Sport  Greenwood, signed from Manchester United in July 2024, had enjoyed strong numbers throughout the campaign, producing 25 goals and 10 assists in 43 matches in all competitions. However, recent performances have shifted attention away from those statistics, particularly after Marseille’s latest setback. As reported by RMC Sport, the English attacker faced severe criticism over his effort levels and commitment. During an appearance on the Rothen s’enflamme podcast, Dugarry questioned Greenwood’s attitude and claimed the club had already gone to great lengths to support him. “Call for pride. This guy was sidelined, made a huge mistake ...

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has named Jarrod Bowen as his preferred option to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah. With the Egyptian expected to leave Anfield this summer, attention has already shifted toward finding a reliable replacement on the right flank. ‎ ‎Michael Owen believes Jarrod Bowen is the ideal replacement for Mohamed Salah as Liverpool FC prepare for a crucial summer rebuild. ‎Getty Images Sport  Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, Owen revealed he had already discussed Bowen as the player he would target for Liverpool. The former Ballon d’Or winner explained that the West Ham United FC captain would suit the club perfectly if the Hammers suffer relegation. Owen said: “How did you know? I told a couple of my mates yesterday that he’s the one player I would sign. Obviously he’s a legend of a player, West Ham adore the man, and rightly so, but if they go down, he would be the right fit for Liverpool.” The ex-England international also praised Bowen’...

‎Liverpool manager Arne Slot has found himself linked with a potential return to the Netherlands after Ajax reportedly made an inquiry as part of their search for a new head coach. However, the situation appears clear: Slot remains focused on his role at Anfield. ‎ ‎Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been linked with Ajax, but reports confirm he is staying at Anfield as Jordi Cruijff continues his search for a new head coach. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎At Liverpool, Slot is currently navigating a challenging season following a difficult defence of the Premier League title. Despite this, he continues to work under a contract that runs until June 2027, with no indication that he intends to leave his long-term project. ‎ ‎The interest from Ajax comes as technical director Jordi Cruijff oversees the club’s managerial search. Ajax are preparing for a new chapter and require a permanent successor to interim boss Oscar Garcia as they reshape their sporting structure. ‎ ‎Among the name...

Darwin Nunez has reached an agreement to leave Al-Hilal at the end of the current season, bringing an end to what has been a difficult spell in Saudi Arabia where he was effectively sidelined due to a registration squeeze. ‎ Darwin Nunez has agreed to leave Al-Hilal after a difficult Saudi spell, with a Premier League return possible amid Chelsea and Juventus interest reported. ‎Getty Images Sport  The 26-year-old Uruguay international joined the Saudi club last August for an initial fee of £46 million ($63m). However, his time in Riyadh quickly turned into a challenging experience following a decisive squad reshuffle by the club’s management. Despite earning a reported £400,000 per week—more than double his salary at Liverpool—Nunez has chosen to prioritise regular football over financial reward after spending the second half of the season out of the matchday picture. His situation worsened after Karim Benzema’s arrival in January. Saudi Pro League rules allow only eig...

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...

Neymar’s potential switch to Major League Soccer is gaining momentum, with the Brazilian attacker weighing his next step after returning to Santos. The idea of reuniting with former Barcelona colleagues at Inter Miami remains appealing, but a possible move to Cincinnati has also entered the conversation. ‎ ‎Neymar’s MLS future is taking shape as Inter Miami and Cincinnati emerge as options, with the Brazilian set to decide after the World Cup. ‎Getty Images Sport  At present, Neymar is back playing in Brazil, yet expectations remain high that he will pursue one last significant challenge outside his home country. MLS continues to attract elite global players, making it a logical destination, especially given the presence of close allies already competing in the league. Still, clarity on his future will not come immediately, as international commitments take priority. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, timing and fitness are crucial factors shaping the situation. Speaki...

‎Barcelona have officially moved into the race to secure Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United as they look to reinforce their attacking options ahead of the summer window. The Catalan side are prioritising the addition of a pacey winger, with sporting director Deco already initiating contact with the player’s camp in Catalonia. However, Bayern Munich remain firmly in contention. ‎ ‎Barcelona step up interest in Anthony Gordon as Deco meets his agents, but Bayern Munich remain strong contenders in the race for the Newcastle winger. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Recent developments reported by RAC1 indicate that Barcelona’s recruitment focus has shifted toward Tyneside. Deco, accompanied by Bojan Krkic, held discussions at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper with representatives Will Salthouse and Adam Dugdale from Unique Sports. ‎ ‎The English winger has become a key objective for Barcelona after months of evaluating forwards suited to their tactical approach. His performances th...