AS World Cup

‎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...

‎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...

‎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...

‎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...

‎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...

Rio Ferdinand has made a striking prediction ahead of the Champions League final, backing Arsenal to defeat Paris Saint-Germain despite acknowledging the French champions’ superior overall quality. Arsenal are on the verge of history as they prepare for a major showdown against PSG in the final. Following Bukayo Saka’s decisive impact against Atletico Madrid in the semi-final, Mikel Arteta’s side now have the chance to complete a remarkable league and European double. ‎ ‎Rio Ferdinand predicts Arsenal will beat PSG in the Champions League final, citing set-pieces as the key advantage. ‎Getty (2) ‎ Speaking on his Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, the former Manchester United and England defender expressed strong belief in Arsenal’s chances: "I said Arsenal would win the league this year and I think Arsenal will win the league," Ferdinand said. "And I now think that Arsenal are going to win the Champions League, guys." However, Ferdinand also made it cl...

‎Barcelona secured the La Liga title with a commanding 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in El Clasico, but much of the post-match attention shifted to Lamine Yamal after his sharp social media response reignited tensions with Jude Bellingham. ‎ ‎Lamine Yamal responds to Jude Bellingham after Barcelona’s 2-0 Clasico win secures La Liga title in a heated rivalry moment. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎Shortly after the match, Yamal shared a video on his Instagram story showing himself celebrating Ferran Torres’ decisive goal from the stands. Alongside the clip, the 18-year-old added the caption “talk is cheap”, followed by several laughing emojis. ‎ ‎The phrase was not random, but a direct reference to earlier remarks made during the season’s heated exchanges between the two sides. Barcelona teammate Gavi further amplified the moment by reposting the story and adding a “talking” emoji, underlining the shared sentiment within the squad. ‎The tension between Yamal and Bellingham began a...

Memphis Depay has enjoyed a career filled with high-profile moves, major clubs, and international recognition, yet questions remain over whether the Dutch forward could have achieved even more at the highest level of European football. The former PSV Eindhoven star currently plays for Sport Club Corinthians Paulista in Brazil after previous spells with Manchester United, FC Barcelona, Olympique Lyonnais and Atletico Madrid. Although he has earned 108 appearances for the Netherlands national football team, he never truly became a dominant figure for Europe’s elite clubs. ‎ ‎Memphis Depay’s former coaches explain why the Dutch forward struggled to consistently shine at Europe’s top clubs. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) Memphis’ rise began in the Eredivisie, where his performances for PSV and Golden Boot-winning campaign convinced United to invest £25 million ($34m) in the attacker in 2015. Supporters at Old Trafford believed the talented winger could become one of the Premier League...

‎Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola believes Jérémy Doku has all the qualities needed to become one of football’s elite wingers after the Belgian’s recent burst of goalscoring form. ‎ ‎Doku has found the net in three successive matches, giving Manchester City an important attacking edge as they continue their pursuit of Arsenal in the closing weeks of the Premier League season. ‎ ‎Jeremy Doku’s recent scoring form has convinced Pep Guardiola he can become one of football’s elite wingers. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎After City defeated Brentford 3-0, Guardiola was questioned about whether Doku could eventually match the standards set by Vinícius Júnior and Lamine Yamal. ‎ ‎"Yeah, for sure," said Guardiola. "And always accept being pushed. Always accept that. And that is so nice. We are really pleased. Now he is winning games. But he has always been really, really good." ‎ ‎The Spanish coach also humorously remarked that managers are often praised when play...

‎Marcus Rashford delivered a defining Clasico performance for FC Barcelona, scoring a brilliant free-kick in a 2-0 win over Real Madrid that secured the La Liga title. ‎ ‎The Manchester United loanee etched his name into Barcelona history, becoming the first English player in 41 years to win Spain’s top flight and the first Blaugrana player to score a direct free-kick in El Clasico since Lionel Messi in 2012. ‎ ‎Rashford’s Clasico heroics secure La Liga for Barcelona, but the Man Utd loanee admits uncertainty over his future. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Historic Clasico Moment ‎ ‎Rashford’s goal came after a moment of hesitation, as he later explained that he initially considered crossing the ball instead of shooting. ‎ ‎"No, I wasn't going to shoot," he told reporters in the mixed zone. "I wasn't going to shoot... because when I put the ball down I didn't see the angles. I didn't feel confident it was going to be a goal, so I was going to cross. ...

‎Marcus Rashford’s impressive loan spell at Barcelona has triggered serious discussions about a permanent transfer after the forward helped guide the club to a Liga title. The Manchester United loanee has become a key figure in the Catalan side’s success, with his performances drawing strong reactions from former manager Ronald Koeman. ‎Koeman insists Barcelona must sign Rashford permanently after title win, calling £30m fee too cheap to ignore. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Barcelona Urged to Act on £30m Option ‎ ‎Despite Rashford’s success, Barcelona have yet to activate the £30 million (€35m) purchase clause in his loan agreement. Reports suggest the club is attempting to negotiate a reduced fee, but Koeman believes hesitation could prove costly. ‎ ‎The former Barcelona manager argues that Rashford’s impact and adaptation to Spanish football make him an essential long-term signing. ‎ ‎“If Barcelona lets him return to Manchester United after this loan, I think they will reg...

Robert Lewandowski has admitted he could consider a move to a “lower league” if he leaves FC Barcelona this summer, as uncertainty grows around his future at the club. The Polish striker, who recently celebrated winning his second consecutive La Liga title with Barcelona, is approaching the final stages of his current contract. Reports have linked him with a potential move to Major League Soccer (MLS), with clubs such as the Chicago Fire mentioned as possible destinations. ‎ ‎Lewandowski considers lower-league or MLS move as Barcelona contract nears end and future decisions remain open. ‎Getty Images Sport  Lower League Possibility on the Table During Barcelona’s title celebrations following their win over Real Madrid, Lewandowski acknowledged that a new chapter in a less demanding competition could be possible. Speaking to Polish television channel Eleven Sports, he explained: "There could be an option in a lower league. I'm almost 38, but I feel good physically, ...