AS World Cup

‎Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain has already triggered discussions about potential summer reinforcements, despite Mikel Arteta guiding the club to the Premier League title. ‎ ‎The Gunners suffered a painful 4-3 penalty shootout loss to PSG at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, and former Arsenal defender Martin Keown believes the result highlighted areas where the squad still needs improvement if they are to compete consistently at Europe’s highest level. ‎ ‎Martin Keown urges Arsenal to strengthen attack after Champions League final loss to PSG despite Premier League triumph. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Keown identifies key positions for improvement ‎ ‎Speaking on TNT Sports after the final, Keown suggested Arsenal may still need to strengthen in the striker department and possibly on the left wing. ‎ ‎“They may look again at the striker. Kai Havertz played 90 minutes tonight but it’s only the second full game he’s finished in 18 months. With Viktor...

‎Marcus Rashford remains fully committed to extending his stay at Barcelona despite growing uncertainty following the arrival of Anthony Gordon. The Manchester United loanee is continuing to focus on securing a permanent move to the Spanish champions while relying on the backing of manager Hansi Flick. ‎ ‎Marcus Rashford remains focused on a permanent Barcelona stay despite Anthony Gordon’s arrival from Newcastle. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The English forward recently delivered a clear statement through social media as speculation surrounding his future intensified. Posting a series of training images on Instagram, Rashford added the caption: “Keep it moving,” signalling his determination to ignore outside distractions and remain focused on his performances. ‎ ‎Questions over Rashford’s long-term future at Camp Nou have increased after Barcelona completed the signing of Gordon. Many viewed the blockbuster transfer as a sign that the club may decide against retaining Rashfor...

‎Arne Slot’s time at Liverpool may already be over, but the Dutch manager is reportedly attracting major interest from AC Milan following his departure from Anfield. ‎ ‎The 47-year-old was relieved of his duties on Saturday after two seasons in charge of Liverpool. Shortly after the announcement, reports emerged linking him with a swift return to management in Serie A. ‎ ‎AC Milan have reportedly started talks with Arne Slot following his departure from Liverpool after two seasons. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Journalist Sacha Tavolieri claims AC Milan have made Slot their top managerial target as they prepare for life after Massimiliano Allegri. The Italian giants are believed to have already opened discussions with representatives of the former Liverpool coach. ‎ ‎Milan are searching for a fresh start after enduring another disappointing domestic campaign. Allegri’s dismissal followed a fifth-place finish in Serie A, leaving the Rossoneri outside the Champions League for a s...

‎Raheem Sterling has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving after a crash involving his Lamborghini on the M3 motorway. The 31-year-old footballer was later released on bail while Hampshire Police continue their investigation into the incident. ‎ Raheem Sterling was arrested after a Lamborghini crash on the M3 and released on bail as police enquiries continue. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The incident occurred on Thursday morning near the Minley Interchange, according to reports from Metro. Hampshire Police confirmed they received reports shortly before 9am that a Lamborghini had collided with motorway barriers on the southbound side of the M3. ‎ ‎Authorities stated that no other vehicles were involved in the collision and no injuries were reported at the scene. ‎Following the crash, Sterling was arrested as police began enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident and the allegations connected to the driver. ‎ ‎Hampshire Police released an official statemen...

‎Anthony Gordon has wasted little time outlining his ambitions after sealing his move to FC Barcelona, with the England international making it clear that winning the Champions League is a major target during his spell in Spain. ‎ ‎The former Newcastle United F.C. winger completed his transfer to the Catalan side on a five-year deal reportedly valued at €80m (£69m). Following his arrival, Gordon visited the club museum, where he reflected on Barcelona’s rich European history and immediately set his sights on adding another continental title to the collection. ‎ Anthony Gordon outlines Champions League ambitions after joining Barcelona from Newcastle United. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎While standing in front of the five Champions League trophies displayed by the club, Gordon stated: "We need the sixth." ‎ ‎The 25-year-old later explained that he hopes to help Barcelona reclaim European glory during his time with the club, further underlining the ambition he carries in...

‎Patrice Evra has delivered a brutal warning to Arsenal ahead of their Champions League final showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, claiming the French giants could “destroy” Mikel Arteta’s side if they fail to “play better football.” ‎ ‎Arsenal are preparing for their first Champions League final appearance since 2006 after reaching the European showpiece unbeaten. Mikel Arteta’s side will now attempt to make history in Budapest as they chase the biggest prize in club football on Hungarian soil. ‎ ‎Patrice Evra fears PSG could overpower Arsenal in the Champions League final if Mikel Arteta’s side play too defensively. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Standing in their way is a PSG side aiming to successfully defend the Champions League trophy and emulate the achievements of Zinedine Zidane’s legendary Real Madrid teams from 2015 to 2018. The Ligue 1 champions head into the final with confidence and a powerful attacking line-up featuring Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvara...

‎Manchester United’s latest financial results have revealed the significant cost attached to the departure of Ruben Amorim and his coaching staff earlier this year. ‎ ‎The club confirmed that removing the Portuguese manager in January resulted in a £16.7 million payout, continuing a costly trend of managerial changes at Old Trafford. The expense comes shortly after United previously paid £14.5 million to dismiss Erik ten Hag and his backroom team. ‎ ‎Manchester United’s financial report shows Ruben Amorim’s departure cost £16.7m despite major improvement under Michael Carrick. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Amorim exited the club with 18 months still remaining on his contract following a poor run of performances that left United in a difficult league position. Since his departure, however, the club’s fortunes have dramatically improved under new head coach Michael Carrick. ‎ ‎Carrick oversaw a remarkable rise in form, guiding Manchester United from 15th place last season to a th...

‎Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus is reportedly prepared to consider a move to another Premier League club as he looks to revive his career with more consistent first-team football. ‎ ‎The Brazilian striker has endured a difficult spell at the Emirates Stadium and is now weighing his options ahead of the summer transfer window. Although Jesus still intends to honour the contract he signed with Arsenal until June 2027, his limited role under Mikel Arteta has forced him to reassess his immediate future. ‎ ‎Gabriel Jesus could leave Arsenal for another Premier League club in search of regular minutes and a historic scoring record. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎According to ESPN, the 29-year-old is open to remaining in England even if it means joining one of Arsenal’s domestic rivals. After struggling for regular involvement this season, Jesus is eager to secure a team where he can once again become a key attacking figure. ‎ ‎His recent challenges have largely stemmed from fitness set...

‎Joe Cole has called on Chelsea to make surprise moves for John Stones and Robert Lewandowski this summer, insisting the experienced duo could transform the atmosphere within the squad as a new era begins under Xabi Alonso. ‎ ‎Joe Cole urges Chelsea to sign John Stones and Robert Lewandowski to bring leadership and winning culture to Stamford Bridge. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎The former Chelsea midfielder believes the Blues need proven winners to guide their talented young players after another disappointing Premier League campaign. According to Cole, Stones and Lewandowski would provide the leadership and mentality currently missing from the dressing room at Stamford Bridge. ‎ ‎Xabi Alonso set for Chelsea takeover ‎ ‎Chelsea are preparing for a fresh start with Xabi Alonso officially set to become the club’s new manager in July. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder has signed a four-year contract after being chosen to replace Liam Rosenior, whose spell in charge ...

‎Manchester City are reportedly pushing to re-sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Pedro Porro as preparations begin for a major transition at the club. ‎ ‎Following Pep Guardiola’s departure, City are moving toward a new chapter under Enzo Maresca and are keen to strengthen key positions within the squad. Improving the right side of defence has become an important objective ahead of the summer window. ‎ ‎Pedro Porro has emerged as a key Manchester City transfer target after impressing for Tottenham this season. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎According to AS, initial contact has already been made regarding a possible transfer for the Spanish international. ‎ ‎City are entering the next phase of their rebuild after missing out on the Premier League title during the last two seasons. However, they still finished the campaign strongly by securing both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. ‎ ‎Tottenham’s season unfolded very differently. Under Roberto De Zerbi, Spurs struggled throughout a chaot...

‎After a decade filled with trophies and record-breaking achievements, Pep Guardiola is expected to leave Manchester City at the end of the season. ‎ ‎Sources familiar with the situation indicate Guardiola is preparing to depart this summer despite having a contract running until June 2027. His exit would conclude one of the most successful managerial spells English football has seen. ‎ Manchester City are preparing for Pep Guardiola’s departure, with Enzo Maresca tipped to become the club’s next manager. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎City’s FA Cup final victory over Chelsea FC on Saturday delivered Guardiola’s 20th major trophy with the club. Combined with their Carabao Cup success earlier this season, the campaign has added more silverware to an already historic era. ‎ ‎Attention has now turned toward Guardiola’s successor, with Enzo Maresca expected to step into the role. The former Chelsea head coach had already been identified in December by The Athletic as a leading can...

Austin FC have announced sweeping changes ahead of the World Cup break, confirming the departures of head coach Nico Estevez and sporting director Rodolfo Borrell after a difficult start to the MLS season. The club made the announcement on Monday following another disappointing result, a 2-1 home defeat against Sporting Kansas City. Despite earning three points, Sporting KC remain bottom of the Western Conference after winning only two of their opening 12 matches. The loss came shortly after Austin FC suffered a crushing 5-0 defeat to San Diego FC, the heaviest loss in club history. ‎ ‎Austin FC part ways with Nico Estevez and Rodolfo Borrell after disappointing MLS results and poor Western Conference form. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ Austin FC confirmed that a search for both a new sporting director and head coach is already underway. The club has appointed Excel Sports Management’s executive search division, Excel Search & Advisory, to oversee the recruitment process d...

‎Tension appears to be growing around Liverpool after Mohamed Salah publicly called for the club to return to its famous “heavy metal football” identity. ‎ ‎The comments, made after Liverpool’s 4-2 loss against Aston Villa, triggered strong reactions from former Reds defender Jamie Carragher and ex-Manchester United captain Gary Neville. ‎ Mohamed Salah’s “heavy metal football” statement sparks criticism from Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎Carragher Compares Salah Situation to Ronaldo Exit ‎ ‎Carragher believes Salah’s latest public comments are another example of the forward creating controversy during a crucial period for Liverpool. ‎ ‎The former defender compared the situation to Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive departure from Manchester United and accused Salah of putting personal frustration ahead of the club. ‎ ‎"I'm not surprised," Carragher said. "I told everybody, Something else will come before the end of the season. H...

Real Madrid have secured the future of Antonio Rudiger after the defender formally accepted the club’s renewal proposal. The agreement guarantees that the experienced centre-back will remain part of the squad for another season in Madrid. ‎ ‎Antonio Rudiger commits to Real Madrid with a new contract after overcoming injuries and rejecting outside interest. ‎Getty Images Sport  German Defender Chooses Continuity at Bernabeu Rudiger had reportedly hoped to extend his stay for two additional years, but the club maintained its established policy of offering shorter contracts to senior players. In the end, the defender accepted a one-year extension, prioritising his role within the team over the duration of the deal. The 31-year-old’s decision brings an end to speculation surrounding a potential departure and reinforces his commitment to Los Blancos. Since joining from Chelsea, he has developed into one of the most important players in the defensive setup. Supporters have em...

‎Yan Diomande has confirmed his intention to continue at RB Leipzig following an exceptional debut campaign that has drawn interest from Liverpool and other clubs across Europe. ‎ ‎The teenage winger has become one of the Bundesliga’s brightest young stars after a breakthrough season at the Red Bull Arena. Despite reports linking him with a future move to the Premier League, the 19-year-old says he remains fully committed to Leipzig. ‎ ‎Yan Diomande says he is staying at RB Leipzig after a breakout season and Rookie of the Season success. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Diomande still has a long-term agreement with the German side after signing a contract until 2030 when he arrived last summer. The opportunity to continue developing while competing in the Champions League has played a major role in his decision to stay. ‎ ‎Asked whether he expects to remain with Leipzig next season, Diomande answered: “Yes.” ‎ ‎The forward later expanded on his current mindset, saying: “I'm not t...

‎Endrick’s memorable loan spell with Olympique Lyonnais is officially over, with the Brazilian forward now expected to rejoin Real Madrid ahead of next season. ‎ ‎The teenager arrived in Ligue 1 in January on a temporary agreement with no purchase clause attached. While Lyon were eager to explore the possibility of keeping him beyond the summer, club officials have acknowledged that such a move is unlikely. ‎ ‎Endrick will return to Real Madrid after Lyon confirmed the end of the Brazilian teenager’s successful loan spell in France. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Speaking after Lyon’s final match of the campaign against Lens, recruitment chief Matthieu Louis-Jean confirmed the situation surrounding the young forward’s future. ‎ ‎"Yes, we would like to keep him, but for the moment, that seems very unlikely," he admitted. "It makes you want to extend his contract. Is it possible? That's another matter. It's been a very good loan for Endrick; he's had a gre...

‎Cole Palmer may have already given incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso a strong indication of which player he rates most highly within the squad. ‎ ‎During a light-hearted challenge with team-mate Joao Pedro, Palmer was asked to choose his ideal five-a-side team from Chelsea’s current group of players. ‎ ‎Cole Palmer hailed Romeo Lavia as “the best ever” while naming his dream Chelsea five-a-side team. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The attacking midfielder quickly settled on his defensive options, naming club captain Reece James alongside Tosin Adarabioyo. ‎ ‎Explaining his decision, Palmer said: ‎“"I would choose Reece at the back, with Tosin because Tosin just kicks everyone. You don't want to play against him in five-a-side. He just kicks everyone. ‎ ‎"So two at the back. Joao up front, Caicedo and... Let me do that again.” ‎ ‎Palmer initially selected Moises Caicedo in midfield before changing his mind and rebuilding the team around Romeo Lavia instead. ‎ ‎Speak...

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will make history with the introduction of its first-ever halftime show, and FIFA has selected Shakira, Madonna, and BTS as the headline performers for the occasion. Scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the event is intended to merge elite football with large-scale live entertainment while supporting educational opportunities for children through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. ‎ The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will feature a halftime show led by Shakira, Madonna and BTS at MetLife Stadium. ‎Getty Images Entertainment  The announcement was delivered through a creative social media presentation featuring characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets. FIFA also confirmed that Chris Martin will oversee the halftime production. Each performer enters the tournament period with major projects already underway. Shakira recently unveiled “Dai Dai,” the official tournament song recorded alongside Burna Boy. Madonna is prepar...

‎Antony’s resurgence in Spanish football showed no signs of slowing down after the Real Betis winger reached another impressive milestone in La Liga. The Brazilian scored in Betis’ 2-2 draw against Real Sociedad, drawing level with Kylian Mbappe for one of the league’s standout attacking statistics this season. ‎ ‎The former Manchester United winger has become increasingly dangerous from long range since moving to Spain. His strike at Anoeta was his fifth goal from outside the box in La Liga this season, putting him alongside Mbappe at the top of that category. ‎ ‎Antony continued his Real Betis resurgence by equaling Kylian Mbappe’s La Liga outside-the-box goal tally. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎The achievement reflects the growing confidence Antony has displayed under Manuel Pellegrini after struggling to consistently impress in the Premier League. His influence in the Betis attack has continued to grow as the season progresses. ‎ ‎Speaking after the match, Antony highligh...