Harry Kane is looking to become the first Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001. If the Bayern Munich striker is successful, will it be another 25 years before a fellow countryman follows in his footsteps? Owen has spoken to GOAL about potentially welcoming a fifth member into an exclusive club - with a “fabulous achievement” on the cards.
Bolivian football has been plunged into a state of shock following allegations that a top-flight goalkeeper received death threats prior to a heavy defeat. Guabira manager Leonardo Eguez has called for an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding his side's recent performance.
Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso has made the sensational claim that former Arsenal defender Nuno Tavares possesses the raw attributes required to play for Real Madrid. The Portuguese left-back struggled to make a lasting impression at the Emirates Stadium but has found a new lease of life in Italy.
Valencia's search for a permanent successor to Carlos Corberan has suffered an early setback after Ernesto Valverde formally turned down the club's managerial offer. The former Athletic Club coach remains committed to a season-long sabbatical, forcing newly appointed sporting director Braulio Vazquez to swiftly turn his attention to alternative targets.
Mikel Arteta has laid down the gauntlet to teenage sensation Max Dowman as Arsenal prepare for their Carabao Cup third-round tie against Ipswich Town. The Gunners boss insists that while the youngster's talent is undeniable, he must fight for his place in a squad currently competing on multiple fronts.
Villarreal have endured a nightmare start to the new La Liga campaign, with their defensive frailties reaching historic lows following a disappointing defeat to Real Betis. The Yellow Submarine have now equalled an unwanted club record that highlights the massive task facing head coach Inigo Perez at the Estadio de la Ceramica.
Philippe Coutinho has broken his silence following his controversial switch to Santos, offering a detailed explanation behind his departure from boyhood club Vasco da Gama earlier this year. The 34-year-old playmaker revealed that severe mental exhaustion and intense hostility from the stands forced him to step away to protect his wellbeing.
Super-agent Jorge Mendes has claimed that Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is "by far" the best player in the world. The Portuguese representative believes the teenager is the only logical choice for the 2026 Ballon d'Or following his historic exploits for club and country.
Inter manager Cristian Chivu has offered a refreshing take on his side’s defensive vulnerabilities following a breathless 5-3 victory over Udinese at San Siro. Despite falling behind early, the Nerazzurri showcased their immense attacking power to secure all three points in a match that featured eight different goalscorers.
Leeds United secured a commanding 4-1 victory against Newcastle United at Elland Road, climbing to third in the Premier League table and handing the visitors their first defeat of the season. First-half goals from an own goal, Jayden Bogle, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin took the game away early on. Noah Okafor added a fourth, with Bazoumana Toure scoring a late consolation.
Cesc Fabregas has revealed that he is looking to his former club Arsenal for inspiration as he continues to transform Como into a competitive force in Serie A. Following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Parma on Monday evening, the Spanish coach highlighted how the Gunners' tactical evolution has provided a blueprint for his own ambitions in Italy.
Richarlison has expressed his clear frustration online after Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi firmly ruled him out of the upcoming Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool. The forward posted a single word alongside a tearful emoji, highlighting the complete breakdown in his relationship with the club following a failed transfer window exit.
Australian football is set for a radical shake-up as the nation's second tier introduces a revolutionary penalty shootout bonus point model. In a move designed to eliminate stalemates and ramp up the drama, drawn matches will no longer end with a simple point apiece for the competing sides.
Anthony Gordon has issued a stern warning to rivals, insisting that Barcelona have built an incredibly versatile squad capable of breaking down any opposition. The English winger believes the sheer variety of attacking profiles at the club will make it nearly impossible for teams to prevent them from scoring as they continue their sensational start to the new campaign.
New Barcelona signing Rodri has delivered a candid assessment of the club's chances in the Champions League, suggesting that tactical discipline must take precedence over flair. The Spanish midfielder believes the squad is ready to compete but remains far from the finished article, warning that the Catalans must learn from past failures to reclaim their continental crown.
Kylian Mbappe has reportedly alienated several of his France team-mates following his controversial public remarks regarding the Ballon d'Or. Ousmane Dembele is said to be particularly furious, viewing the comments as a betrayal, which has led to a tense atmosphere and the formation of two separate factions within the national team dressing room ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
Italy international Daniel Maldini has seen his weekend go from the ultimate high to a crushing low after having his driving licence suspended in Milan. The 24-year-old, who is the son of legendary defender Paolo Maldini, was involved in a road traffic accident just hours after netting the decisive goal for Cagliari in Serie A.
Former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs believes young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has all the necessary attributes to reach the incredible level of Paul Scholes. Giggs praised Mainoo following his impressive performance in the Manchester derby, highlighting the youngster's unique acceleration, physical strength, and constant desire to do the right things on the pitch.
The iconic partnership between Philippe Coutinho and Neymar is set for a sensational revival in their homeland. Santos have officially confirmed the signing of the former Liverpool playmaker on a short-term deal that runs until the end of the current campaign.
Bradley Barcola has barely begun his career at Anfield, but former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin has already issued a stark warning to supporters regarding the new forward. Despite acknowledging his devastating speed, the pundit believes the £123 million recruit lacks the technical vision and football intelligence required to dismantle deep defensive lines.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has made a high-profile return to AC Milan's training headquarters, ending a six-month absence from the club's daily operations. The legendary Swede was spotted at Milanello on Monday morning, marking his first appearance at the facility since a period of significant internal upheaval.
After competing in RePlay leagues around the world, young players traveled to Mexico City, Los Angeles and New York for a once-in-a-lifetime World Cup experience.
Callum McGregor delivered a brutally honest assessment of his team after Celtic suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat against bitter rivals Rangers in the League Cup. The captain accused his teammates of playing like a disjointed group of individuals rather than a cohesive unit, warning that their current defensive vulnerabilities and lack of collective effort are simply unacceptable.
Crystal Palace have opened negotiations with goalkeeper Dean Henderson regarding a new long-term contract at Selhurst Park. The England international has become a cornerstone of the project in South London, establishing himself as a vital leader both on and off the pitch for the Eagles.
John Obi Mikel has strongly criticised Chelsea for their failure to sign a midfield replacement after selling Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City. The former midfielder believes this £125 million transfer mistake is directly responsible for Xabi Alonso's defensive issues this season, pointing out that the team desperately misses the injured Moises Caicedo to protect the defence.
The fallout from a controversial Manchester derby continues as Pro Ref officials have confirmed that the VAR team responsible for awarding Erling Haaland’s winning goal has been stood down. Manchester City secured all three points at Old Trafford, but the decision-making process behind the game's only goal has led to significant disciplinary action.
Former Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar has secured an unexpected return to football by joining the board of directors at Bulgarian champions Levski Sofia. Edu takes on this new challenge shortly after his contract was terminated by Nottingham Forest, where he endured a highly difficult stint overseeing their global football operations across a vast multi-club network.
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