Saudi Pro League stars Sadio Mane and Julian Quinones have earned landmark nominations for the 2026 Ballon d'Or following superb domestic and international campaigns. The Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah forward duo lead a strong RSL contingent recognised by France Football, with goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Edouard Mendy also shortlisted for the Yashin Trophy.
Manchester United need to start drawing up a succession plan for the day that Bruno Fernandes leaves Old Trafford, so could Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White form part of that process? Red Devils legend Andy Cole, who also spent time at the City Ground in his playing days, has explained to GOAL why the England hopeful boasts the right qualities.
Manchester United coach Darren Fletcher was forced to take matters into his own hands after witnessing a section of the club’s support turn toxic following their Champions League triumph. The former Red Devils midfielder confronted a group of fan who had allegedly directed abusive language at players for not stopping to sign autograph on memorabilia.
Manchester United target Martin Baturina proved why he is tipped to inherit Luka Modric's mantle after leading Como 1907 to a 4-1 Champions League win against RB Leipzig. The Croatian midfielder scored Como's first-ever goal in the competition before claiming Player of the Match honors.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed a major selection boost ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The Premier League leaders are looking to maintain their perfect start to the domestic campaign while ending a disappointing recent run at the home of their local rivals, Man United.
Sergino Dest described PSV Eindhoven's 1-1 Champions League draw against Shakhtar Donetsk as 'bitter' despite scoring a vital second-half equaliser. Meanwhile, team-mate Kodai Sano expressed pride after fulfilling his childhood dream by making his debut in the competition.
If Elliot Anderson can move for £116 million ($157m) and Enzo Fernandez generates a £125m ($169m) transfer fee, how much is Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton worth? Eagles legend Clinton Morrison has told GOAL that the England international will be another in the nine-figure “ballpark”, with a bold prediction for 2027 being made when it comes to the classy 22-year-old.
Archie Brown scored a crucial equaliser as Fenerbahce held Roma to a 1-1 draw on their Champions League return. However, the English full-back was left utterly stunned in the mixed zone after learning that head coach Ismail Kartal had announced his resignation during his press conference.
Mikel Arteta has revealed his bizarre methods for preparing Arsenal for unexpected disruptions after their Champions League plans were thrown into chaos. The Gunners' flight to Italy ahead of Napoli clash was severely delayed by UK air traffic control issues, but the manager insisted his squad was ready. He admitted to deliberately sabotaging pre-season schedules to ensure his players could handle sudden adversity without complaining.
Ousmane Dembele has revealed the flattering nicknames Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has earned since cementing his place at Paris Saint-Germain. The French winger heaped praise on his team-mate during a joint interview, explaining how the Georgian star is viewed inside the dressing room.
Harry Kane is well on course to reach 100 goals for England. If he does did hit that milestone, will that be a record that stands forever? Former Three Lions striker Andy Cole has answered that question during an exclusive interview with GOAL. The ex-Manchester United star believes that somebody else is capable of posting “frigenting” numbers in the future.
Newcastle United have officially announced that Lewis Hall has signed a new long-term contract at St James' Park, effectively ending Manchester United's hopes of luring the defender to Old Trafford. The 22-year-old England international had been a primary target for the Red Devils as they sought to solve their ongoing crisis on the left flank.
Arda Turan expressed pride after Shakhtar Donetsk earned a 1-1 Champions League draw at PSV Eindhoven. The Turkish head coach shared an emotional story about 19-year-old debutant Isaque before debutant goalscorer Gleiker Mendoza praised the team's tactical bravery.
Ruben van Bommel expressed disappointment after PSV Eindhoven opened their UEFA Champions League campaign with a 1-1 draw against Shakhtar Donetsk. The winger also hit out at public criticism following his controversial Eredivisie challenge on Ajax defender Aaron Bouwman.
Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for his final shot at Asian glory in the AFC Champions League Elite with Al-Nassr. Manager Ange Postecoglou is set to manage the Portuguese superstar's workload, while winger Kingsley Coman could make a timely injury return.
Declan Rice has admitted that ex-Man City star Kevin De Bruyne remains a massive threat on the European stage despite Arsenal securing a hard-fought victory over Napoli. The Gunners kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win in Italy, but the Belgian playmaker left a lasting impression on his former Premier League rivals.
Bukayo Saka “gets away with murder” on the statistical front, ex-Arsenal star Jermaine Pennant has told GOAL, with the Gunners winger being told that his numbers do not justify “world-class” hype. The Hale End academy graduate is considered to form part of the global elite, as a Premier League title winner and England international, but is capable of delivering much more.
Ruben Aguilar labelled RC Lens's thrilling 3-2 Champions League win over Slavia Prague as completely unpredictable after scoring a 93rd-minute winner. The full-back praised the unique culture at the club alongside his close bond with fellow goalscorer Florian Thauvin.
Harry Kane has issued a stark warning to Bayern Munich's Champions League rivals following their commanding 5-0 victory over Bodo/Glimt on Thursday. The prolific striker believes the German giants are firm favourites to win the competition now that they fully understand their manager's tactical vision.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has sparked major injury concerns after being spotted limping heavily following his side’s Champions League victory at Old Trafford. The Portuguese international was seen moving gingerly while exiting the stadium, casting a shadow over what was a dominant night for the Red Devils on the European stage with derby date against Man City on the horizon.
Florian Thauvin praised the incredible mental strength of RC Lens after avoiding a nightmare defeat against ten-man Slavia Prague. The French forward scored a dramatic 91st-minute equaliser before Ruben Aguilar completed a wild 3-2 Champions League comeback.
Paris Saint-Germain have officially confirmed they will wear two stars above their crest across all competitions this season to celebrate their consecutive Champions League triumphs. The decision marks a shift from their previous stance and highlights their historic European success under Luis Enrique.
Lisandro Martinez labelled himself 'one of the happiest people in the world' after netting his first Old Trafford goal during Manchester United's 4-0 Champions League win over Sabah. The Argentine defender praised the team's relentless intensity before turning his focus toward the upcoming Manchester derby.
Jamal Musiala has opened up on his emotional return to the Bayern Munich starting line-up after finding the net in a dominant 5-0 Champions League victory over Bodo/Glimt. The German international had been sidelined recently following a public revelation regarding a neurological condition that caused absence seizures during pre-season.
Luis Enrique has publicly defended Maghnes Akliouche after the Paris Saint-Germain forward faced criticism following their Champions League victory over Bratislava. The Spanish manager insisted he is delighted with the summer signing's rapid adaptation and overall contribution despite his slow start in front of goal.
Striker-needy Premier League clubs missed a trick when it comes to “big player” Troy Parrott, former Republic of Ireland international Clinton Morrison has told GOAL. The Tottenham academy graduate spread his wings in 2024 when heading to the Netherlands and now finds himself in Spain - and the Champions League - with La Liga outfit Real Betis.
Former Manchester United and Chelsea star Juan Mata has confirmed he will not return to Melbourne Victory for the 2026-27 A-League Men season. While the veteran playmaker is stepping away from the pitch in Australia, he has notably stopped short of announcing his formal retirement from professional football.
Leeds United managing director Robbie Evans has revealed the club and manager Daniel Farke are making strong progress towards a new long-term contract. With the German head coach in the final year of his current deal, the Elland Road hierarchy insist there is no need to rush negotiations.
Cesc Fabregas has admitted that Hansi Flick’s rejuvenated Barcelona side are currently performing at a "frightening" level that leaves opponents looking helpless. The Como manager, who remains an iconic figure at Camp Nou, confessed his admiration for the Blaugrana's tactical flexibility following their dominant displays in Europe.
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