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‎Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has explained how the club determines its penalty taker after Lamine Yamal unexpectedly stepped up ahead of Raphinha during Barcelona’s 4-2 victory over Levante on Sunday. ‎ ‎The decision came during an entertaining contest at the Estadi Ciutat de València, where Yamal’s successful spot-kick added another major moment to an impressive individual performance. ‎ ‎Hansi Flick explains Barcelona’s penalty process after Lamine Yamal scores against Levante and matches a Lionel Messi record. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Yamal Takes Penalty Ahead of Raphinha ‎ ‎Barcelona started strongly, with Xavi Espart opening the scoring in the fifth minute before Yamal extended the advantage. ‎ ‎Early in the second half, Barcelona were awarded a penalty. Raphinha was widely expected to take the spot-kick, but it was Yamal who took responsibility from 12 yards. ‎ ‎The decision immediately attracted attention from supporters and reporters, particularly because Raphi...

‎England's hopes of reaching a first World Cup final since 1966 ended in disappointment after Argentina fought back to claim a 2-1 victory in Atlanta on Wednesday, with Thomas Tuchel's tactical approach coming under intense criticism. ‎ ‎Tuchel's selection initially appeared to be a masterstroke. Surprise starter Morgan Rogers delivered the cross that allowed Anthony Gordon to give England the lead 10 minutes into the second half. ‎ ‎England fell 2-1 to Argentina as Thomas Tuchel's tactics came under scrutiny despite Anthony Gordon's opening goal. ‎ Getty/GOAL ‎However, England's conservative approach eventually proved costly. A first half dominated by defensive football was followed by late substitutions that shifted momentum completely in Argentina's favour. Gordon was replaced by Ezri Konsa before Dan Burn and Nico O'Reilly were introduced as England attempted to protect their advantage. ‎ ‎Argentina continued to apply pressure throughout ...

‎England enter the 2026 World Cup with plenty of reasons for optimism. Harry Kane continues to rank among the finest strikers in world football, Declan Rice has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders, and Thomas Tuchel brings tactical expertise capable of maximizing an attack filled with elite talent. ‎ England boast elite attacking talent, but concerns over fitness and experience in defence could threaten World Cup success. ‎Getty/GOAL ‎Yet despite their strengths going forward, England's defensive unit remains a major source of uncertainty. ‎ ‎The contrast between attack and defence is striking. While England's forward line can be devastating, Tuchel's preferred back four of Reece James, John Stones, Ezri Konsa and Nico O'Reilly enters the tournament carrying concerns over fitness, experience and reliability. ‎ ‎Every contender has weaknesses, but England's defensive concerns are among the most visible and could ultimat...

‎Speculation surrounding Jurgen Klopp and a potential move to Real Madrid has been dismissed, as the German is not part of the club’s plans to replace Alvaro Arbeloa. Despite persistent links to the Santiago Bernabeu, Klopp remains focused on his executive role with Red Bull. ‎ ‎Real Madrid are not considering Jurgen Klopp for their next manager, with the German focused on Red Bull duties and a long-term goal of leading Germany. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The managerial search at Madrid is underway following a challenging run of results under Arbeloa, who stepped in after Xabi Alonso. While numerous names have been mentioned in connection with the vacancy, reports suggest that several have not been formally discussed by the club. In some instances, Madrid’s name has been used externally to generate attention for certain candidates. ‎ ‎Although Klopp’s reputation continues to command global respect, he is not viewed as a suitable option for Madrid’s current needs. The club is...

Mohamed Salah is approaching the end of his Liverpool journey, and former defender Markus Babbel believes the timing of his departure is appropriate given recent performances. The Egyptian forward, widely regarded as a club icon, has endured a challenging campaign that has drawn criticism from former players. While his tally of 12 goals and nine assists remains respectable, it represents a noticeable decline from the elite output he produced in previous seasons. ‎ ‎Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool exit gains support from Markus Babbel, who questions his performances, work rate, and compatibility with Arne Slot this season. ‎Getty Images Sport  Babbel, speaking to EPL Index, suggested that Salah’s influence has diminished and argued that his displays have not matched the high standards expected of him. He also pointed to a perceived disconnect with head coach Arne Slot, noting that the forward did not appear fully comfortable in the current setup. The former Germany internation...

Southampton have made a striking change for their FA Cup semi-final clash against Manchester City at Wembley, stepping away from their traditional red and white stripes to wear a special yellow kit. ‎ ‎Southampton wear yellow kit vs Man City in FA Cup semi-final at Wembley, honoring 1976 triumph over Man United as Eckert's side chase historic final place boost hopes. ‎Getty Images Sport  The switch is not random but deeply symbolic, as the commemorative design marks 50 years since the club’s famous 1976 FA Cup triumph over Manchester United, which remains their only major trophy in history. The yellow-and-blue colour scheme reflects that historic achievement and serves as a tribute to one of the most defining moments in Southampton’s 141-year story. Notably, the special kit also features no player names on the back, further reinforcing its commemorative purpose. It is intended as a direct nod to Lawrie McMenemy’s legendary side, whose victory at Wembley continues to sta...

‎Rodri has voiced serious concerns about his long-term future, warning that the current football schedule could force him out of the game sooner than expected. The Manchester City midfielder, who recently suffered another injury setback, described the fixture list as excessive and damaging. ‎ Manchester City’s Rodri fears injuries and fixture congestion could shorten his career, warning the current football calendar is unsustainable. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The Ballon d’Or winner indicated that the physical demands placed on players have reached a critical point. At 29, and having already dealt with significant injuries such as an ACL tear, he believes the intensity of modern football is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. ‎ ‎Having played a central role in both club and international success over recent years, Rodri admitted that the toll of constant competition is beginning to show. He suggested that without meaningful changes to reduce the number of matches, ...

‎The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces a historic expansion to 48 teams, replacing the 32-team format that has been in place since 1998. Hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament will feature a wider global representation than ever before. ‎ ‎The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature an expanded lineup of 48 teams competing across North America. Getty Images Sport (7) ‎UEFA has been allocated 16 places, CAF nine, and AFC eight. CONMEBOL and CONCACAF are guaranteed at least six teams each, while OFC has one automatic spot for the first time. Two additional places will be determined through intercontinental playoffs. ‎Qualified Teams and Dates Qualified  ‎ ‎Europe (UEFA) ‎ ‎Bosnia & Herzegovina — March 31, 2026 — UEFA Play-Off A winners — Qualified for only the second time after dramatic penalty shootout wins, including a decisive victory over Italy, continuing the Azzurri’s recent World Cup struggles ‎ ‎Czechia — March 31, 2026 — Play-Off D winners ...

‎Marcus Rashford has been linked with a possible summer return to Manchester United once his loan spell at Barcelona ends. However, reports suggest the Red Devils are continuing to shape their long-term squad without factoring the England forward into their plans. At present, expectations indicate that Barcelona, who are chasing the La Liga title, are likely to activate the option to make his move permanent. ‎ ‎Manchester United are reportedly still planning without Marcus Rashford despite his strong Barcelona loan spell, with the Spanish club holding a £26m purchase option and the final decision largely in their control. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Barcelona have the right to sign Rashford permanently for £26 million ($36m). The Spanish giants currently hold the advantage in negotiations, meaning they can effectively decide the player’s next step. Should they choose to keep him, Manchester United would have no power to prevent the transfer from being completed. ‎ ‎Accordin...

‎Ousmane Dembele claimed the Ballon d’Or for 2025 at a dazzling ceremony in Paris, completing a remarkable turnaround at Paris Saint-Germain after being regarded by many Barcelona supporters as one of the least successful signings in the club’s history. ‎ Ousmane Dembele’s 2025 Ballon d’Or win sparks debate over next year’s frontrunners. From Lamine Yamal to Kylian Mbappe, here are the top 2026 contenders. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎The victory placed 18-year-old Lamine Yamal in second place, with the Barcelona prodigy already seen as a future winner of football’s most prestigious individual prize. Spain’s status as a strong favorite for the 2026 World Cup in North America only strengthens the teenager’s chances of lifting the award in the near future. ‎ ‎With the 2025 edition concluded, attention has already shifted toward the main contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. ‎ ‎10. Cole Palmer ‎ ‎Cole Palmer has shown a flair for delivering in crucial matches. His performances in...

‎Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has cemented his place in football history by becoming the first player to win the Kopa Trophy twice. The prestigious award, given to the best-performing male player under the age of 21, had never been retained until Yamal’s triumph at the 2025 ceremony. ‎ ‎Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal becomes the first player to win the Kopa Trophy twice, following a treble-winning season and standout performances in 2025. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The 18-year-old attacker first collected the honor in 2024 after playing a key role in Spain’s victorious European Championship campaign. His influence only grew in the following season as he became the creative leader of Hansi Flick’s Barcelona side. Yamal guided the Catalan club to a domestic treble, lifting La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup, all secured against archrivals Real Madrid. ‎ ‎Yamal’s contribution was decisive, as he recorded 18 goals and 25 assists across all competitions. His pace...

‎The Ballon d’Or, football’s most prestigious individual prize, has celebrated the game’s finest since its expansion in 1995 to include non-European players. Legends such as George Weah, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Zinedine Zidane, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have all etched their names into history with the Golden Ball. Yet, countless icons fell just short despite unforgettable careers. ‎ From Neymar to Wayne Rooney, explore the top 10 legendary footballers who never lifted the Ballon d’Or despite historic careers. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎We have ranked the ten greatest footballers never to win the Ballon d’Or, each leaving behind a legacy that redefined the sport. ‎ ‎10. Zlatan Ibrahimović ‎ ‎Zlatan Ibrahimović collected 34 trophies across six different leagues and scored 573 career goals, including 62 for Sweden. Despite a fourth-place finish in the 2014 Ballon d’Or, his absence from Champions League success kept him from the top prize. His record of scoring fo...

‎Manchester United secured a vital 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro on the scoresheet before the Brazilian’s dismissal gave the visitors late momentum. Ruben Amorim’s side, under pressure after their derby defeat at Manchester City, held firm to claim their first win over a top rival during his tenure. ‎ ‎Bruno Fernandes inspires Man Utd to a 2-1 win over Chelsea as Casemiro scores then sees red. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The match turned early when Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was sent off in the fifth minute for a rash challenge on Bryan Mbeumo outside the penalty area. United quickly capitalized, Fernandes heading in Patrick Dorgu’s delivery for his 100th goal for the club. ‎ ‎Chelsea suffered another setback when Cole Palmer was forced off midway through the first half with a suspected groin injury. Amorim’s men extended their lead before the interval, Casemiro rising to head home after sustained pressure, assisted by Ha...

‎Manchester United’s senior players reportedly staged a behind-the-scenes intervention to address Alejandro Garnacho’s attitude before the winger’s exile from the first team and eventual transfer to Chelsea. ‎ ‎Reports indicate that Garnacho’s self-focused behaviour, both on and off the pitch, frustrated manager Ruben Amorim and the squad, ultimately leading to his departure from Old Trafford. Tensions began to escalate only months before his move to Stamford Bridge. ‎ ‎Man Utd leaders staged an intervention over Alejandro Garnacho’s attitude before his exile and Chelsea transfer, leaving tensions at Old Trafford. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎According to The Sun, Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Harry Maguire were among the club’s leadership group who confronted Garnacho. The players urged him to adopt a more team-first mindset, but the winger refused to change. His clashes with Amorim, temper tantrums, and outspoken social media activity only added to the growing unrest. ‎ ‎...

‎Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has voiced concerns over the club’s decision to sign Senne Lammens, suggesting the Red Devils missed out on proven goalkeepers Emi Martinez and Gianluigi Donnarumma. ‎ ‎The Danish icon revealed he had never heard of Lammens before the deal and questioned whether the 23-year-old Belgian is ready to handle the pressure of becoming United’s No.1. Speaking to SunSport through Sky Bet, Schmeichel emphasized that Martinez and Donnarumma represented the type of world-class pedigree Manchester United should be targeting. ‎ Peter Schmeichel says Man Utd should have signed Emi Martinez or Gianluigi Donnarumma instead of Senne Lammens, questioning the Belgian’s readiness. ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Lammens joined United from Royal Antwerp on deadline day of the summer transfer window for an initial fee of €21m (£18m/$25m). The signing followed Andre Onana’s loan move to Trabzonspor, leaving Ruben Amorim with Lammens and Altay Bayindir as his main...

‎Manchester United’s position on manager Ruben Amorim has been clarified amid the club’s worst Premier League start in more than three decades. The Portuguese coach has faced mounting scrutiny for persisting with his back-five system, particularly after the 3-0 derby defeat to Manchester City. ‎ Manchester United back Ruben Amorim despite heavy criticism and worst Premier League start in 33 years as he defends back-five tactics. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Manchester United Suffer Derby Defeat ‎ ‎The Red Devils endured another difficult afternoon at the Etihad Stadium, recording their third defeat in five games across all competitions. Phil Foden opened the scoring in the first half, converting a header from Jeremy Doku’s cross. After the interval, Erling Haaland netted twice to secure a convincing victory for Pep Guardiola’s side. ‎ ‎Club Stance on Ruben Amorim’s Future ‎ ‎Reports from the Manchester Evening News indicate that Amorim’s position is not currently under serio...

‎Gary Lineker has raised concerns about Ruben Amorim’s management of Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The former England striker described the situation as “slightly baffling” and admitted he is “really worried” about the teenager’s lack of playing time at Old Trafford this season. ‎ Gary Lineker voices concern over Ruben Amorim’s handling of Man Utd midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, calling the situation “slightly baffling.” ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Mainoo was widely expected to play a key role for Manchester United following his standout performances for England at Euro 2024. However, the 19-year-old has yet to start a Premier League game under Amorim despite the club’s ongoing injury challenges in midfield. His frustration reportedly led to a loan request in the summer, which United declined. ‎ ‎On The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker addressed Mainoo’s current situation, stating: “I don’t think he’s going to change his system now. He’s been very stubborn so far, ...

‎Manchester United endured a humiliating afternoon as Manchester City sealed a dominant 3-0 derby win at the Etihad Stadium. The result leaves United with just four points from their opening four Premier League matches, adding more pressure ahead of their upcoming clash with Chelsea. ‎ ‎Manchester United player ratings vs Man City: Luke Shaw falters, Benjamin Sesko struggles, and Red Devils suffer heavy 3-0 derby defeat. ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Goalkeeper and Defence ‎ ‎Altay Bayindir (4/10): Handed the start ahead of new signing Senne Lammens, Bayindir looked nervous throughout. He spilled a Tijjani Reijnders shot and misjudged a backpass, offering little resistance on any of City’s goals. ‎ ‎Leny Yoro (5/10): Made several clearances but lost track of Jeremy Doku in the build-up to the second goal, exposing United’s fragile back line. ‎ ‎Matthijs de Ligt (6/10): The most composed of United’s defenders. Worked tirelessly to cover for his teammates but was often left stran...

‎Chelsea’s transfer deadline day move for Facundo Buonanotte has been clarified, with manager Enzo Maresca detailing how the Argentine midfielder will fit into the club’s plans this season. The Blues secured the Brighton prospect on a season-long loan, paying a £2 million (€2.3m/$2.7m) fee after swooping in to disrupt Leeds United’s near-completed deal. ‎ ‎Chelsea unveil plans for Facundo Buonanotte after hijacking his Leeds move, with Enzo Maresca confirming key role in Blues’ busy season. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The 19-year-old has already made an impression at Stamford Bridge. During the international break, he featured in a friendly where Chelsea’s senior squad members who were not on national duty faced the club’s U21s. Buonanotte scored a hat-trick in the match, earning praise and congratulations from his new teammates, according to The Athletic. ‎ ‎The Argentine midfielder is well-acquainted with English football, having played 71 Premier League matches during hi...

‎Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has voiced his frustration at Spain’s handling of Lamine Yamal after confirming the teenager will miss Sunday’s La Liga clash against Valencia at Camp Nou. The 18-year-old winger featured in both of Spain’s World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Turkey despite carrying an injury. ‎ ‎Hansi Flick criticizes Spain for risking Lamine Yamal’s fitness, ruling the Barcelona star out of the Valencia clash with a back problem. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Reports from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo revealed that Yamal pulled out of Barcelona training ahead of the Valencia fixture due to discomfort. The publication added that the youngster had been dealing with a back issue before joining Luis de la Fuente’s national squad earlier in the week. ‎ ‎Flick made his anger clear during a press conference, pointing out the extended minutes Yamal played for Spain despite his condition. Quoted by Spanish reporter Alfredo Martinez, Flick said: “Lamine Yamal wil...