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Dutch legend Ruud Gullit last week labelled Diego Simeone one of the finest coaches of all time - but claimed that the Argentine doesn't get the credit he deserves. It was an interesting argument, but one always likely to divide opinions - just like Simeone himself. The man affectionately known as 'Cholo' is widely revered within the football world. The job he's done at Atletico Madrid commands nothing but respect.

Harry Kane could be on the cusp of greatness, if such a title isn't already guaranteed. Bayern Munich will be looking to the England captain to score the goals that will give them the edge over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, while another Bundesliga title is already wrapped up, the World Cup is fast approaching and he is already in the box seat for the Ballon d'Or. It promises to be a gilded season for the 32-year-old.

This is Legacy, GOAL’s podcast and feature series following the countdown to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. This week, we explore the rise, the fractures, the fading aura and the new stars who still haven’t claimed the spotlight for Brazil, and the question hanging over this World Cup cycle: what remains for Neymar - and for a national team that spent 20 years depending on him?

Manchester United are on the brink of a return to the Champions League after Michael Carrick’s transformative spell as interim boss continued with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Brentford. The Red Devils have been revitalised since the former midfielder took the reins in January, prompting Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher to claim that he will "certainly" be given the job on a permanent basis.

Michael Carrick has warned his Manchester United stars not to "over celebrate" Champions League qualification, which is now all but secured after a 2-1 Premier League win over Brentford on Monday night. The home supporters also aimed "one more year" chants at Casemiro, but Carrick maintained that the midfielder’s summer exit remains the "clear" plan as the club eyes a broader squad refresh.

Bayern Munich are reportedly keen to secure a swift contract extension with Harry Kane. Sky reports that the England striker's new contract should be wrapped up before the World Cup starts on June 11, providing a massive boost for the Champions League semi-finalists.

The Vancouver Whitecaps have urged local ownership groups to invest in the club to keep the team in the city amid fears of relocation. Their statement comes just hours after The Athletic reported that a select committee of MLS owners met earlier this month to discuss the club’s future, with Las Vegas emerging as the leading option if it relocates.

Manchester United can almost hear the sound of the Champions League anthem after Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko propelled them to a 2-1 win over Brentford on Monday. The Red Devils stay third in the Premier League table but now possess an 11-point lead over sixth-placed Brighton, meaning they have all-but secured a top-five finish and a ticket back to Europe's top table for the first time in three years.

Rodrygo has explained to GOAL how “healthy competition” between the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham at Real Madrid helps to make “everyone better”. With the Blancos forever in the hunt for major honours at home and abroad, it is important for the highest of standards to be set by ‘Galactico’ performers behind the scenes.

Yoane Wissa made the brave decision to take on Newcastle’s No.9 shirt when completing a £55 million ($75m) transfer to St James’ Park, and Paul-Jose M’Poku has told GOAL why that call can still be justified. The former Brentford striker has endured a testing debut campaign on Tyneside, but a fellow countryman is confident that peak form will be rediscovered in time.

In 2016, Leicester City were Premier League champions and gracing Champions League competition. In 2021, they won the FA Cup and Community Shield - allowing another foray into European competition to be enjoyed. Fast forward five years and the Foxes have suffered back-to-back relegations and will be playing in League One next season. What has gone wrong? Paul Dickov has cast an eye over the “upsetting” situation during an exclusive interview with GOAL.

Christian Pulisic’s goal drought isn’t just a dip in form - it’s the result of an AC Milan system that’s asking him to play a role that doesn’t suit his game.

It was a big weekend for MLS strikers, but Lionel Messi and Inter Miami remain stuck in a strange run of form after another uneven result.

Real Madrid and Brazil star Rodrygo has told GOAL why he continues to be inspired by fellow countryman Neymar, with hero worship being enjoyed while on international duty. Blancos forward Rodrygo will not be gracing this summer’s World Cup due to an unfortunate injury, but the Selecao’s all-time leading goalscorer remains in contention to earn a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans.

Paul Dickov has explained to GOAL why there is a “brilliant love-hate relationship” between Rayan Cherki and Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. The “cheeky” France international playmaker has become a fan favourite at the Etihad Stadium, but some antics do not sit well with his demanding manager. There is, however, plenty of mutual respect between the pair and Cherki is considered to boast “scary” potential.

Jesse Lingard has expressed his belief that ex-Manchester United team-mate Bruno Fernandes should be in the running for the 2026 Ballon d'Or after an "extraordinary" season. The Englishman, who is now playing for Corinthians in Brazil, has also delivered his honest verdict on Michael Carrick's tenure as interim manager at Old Trafford, with a final decision on the permanent role now looming.