Asianet Newsable

Arteta Rages Over 'Two Red Cards' That Could Cost Arsenal the Premier League Title

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 11:33:48 +0530

Arsenal are back on top of the Premier League, but Mikel Arteta claimed their title challenge could be ruined by two rejected red card decisions in their games against Manchester City and Newcastle.

Arteta's side are three points clear of second-placed Manchester City after Eberechi Eze's early strike clinched a vital 1-0 win against Newcastle on Saturday.

But the Gunners boss was frustrated with the decision not to send off Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope for a foul on Viktor Gyokeres in the 74th minute at the Emirates Stadium.

Pope raced out of his penalty area to clatter Gyokeres, escaping with a yellow card because the Sweden striker was wide on the right wing without a clear sight of goal.

With the prospect of goal difference potentially deciding a gripping title race, Arteta knew Arsenal would have had a chance to rack up a bigger win if Newcastle were reduced to 10 men.

Instead, they had to settle for a result that left them only one goal better off than City in the goal difference column.

Arteta was also still harbouring a grievance from last weekend's crucial 2-1 defeat at City, when Abdukodir Khusanov wasn't sent off after hauling down Kai Havertz.

The Spaniard believes those two decisions could prove decisive in settling the title race.

"I don't know why the Newcastle keeper wasn't sent off. I have seen it 10 times. If you have ever watched football, you know it was a red card. These are the margins," Arteta said.

"I am saying the reality of the last two games, in crucial moments with everything at stake, we need things to go our way. I'm not making excuses.

"It was a red card today and a red card in Manchester. If they go our way we are in a different world today."

Arteta's rant underlined the mounting tension at the Emirates as Arsenal chase a first English title since 2004.

City's 1-0 win at Burnley in midweek had knocked Arsenal off top spot for the first time since October, raising the spectre of another title race collapse after their blown leads in 2023 and 2024 gifted the trophy to Pep Guardiola's men.

‘Path of roses’

Arsenal had lost their previous two league games and four of their last six in all competitions.

Once again, they struggled to impose themselves for long periods against Newcastle, but Eze's superb strike from a well-worked short corner was enough to settle their nerves.

"We talk about game one and how important that was. We certainly did the job. When it's 1-0 it's always tough, especially with the quality of players they brought on," Arteta said.

"We tried to get a second goal but when you can't do that you have to win it in other areas."

City have a game in hand on Arsenal and retain control of the title race.

But Arsenal can move six points clear if they beat Fulham next weekend, before City are next in league action against Everton on May 4.

Arteta knows there will be plenty more twists and turns before Arsenal can finally end their long wait for the title.

"We are where we are. I don't expect after 22 years, it is going to be a path of roses and beautiful music around it," he said.

"It is so hard to win the Premier League, it is so competitive.

"We have to do what is in our hands. Game one was in our hands. We had to win it and we have done it. We wanted a bigger margin but we were not able to."

Arteta faces a nervous wait to discover if Eze and Havertz will be fit for Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg at Atletico Madrid.

"They are muscular niggles. We dont think it is too much. We have to see if they are available for Wednesday," he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Liverpool Captain Van Dijk Confident Salah Will Receive Send-Off Even If Injury Ends His Season

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:05:05 +0530

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is certain Mohamed Salah will get the send-off his glittering career deserves, even if injury prevents the Egyptian from playing again for the Reds.

Salah, who will leave Anfield after nine years at the end of the season, was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury in Saturday's 3-1 win over Crystal Palace.

Liverpool are awaiting the results of a scan to determine the extent of the problem, but with just four games of the campaign remaining, the 33-year-old may not feature again this season.

"If you get injured at this stage of the season, especially in the situation he is in, there is only two more home games left for him, it's a combination of feelings that go through your mind," said Van Dijk.

"He will get the send-off regardless. I don't think that is the thing at this point, we shouldn't think too far ahead.

"Knowing Mo, he is a quick healer and with the right people around him let's see."

Salah has scored 257 goals in 440 appearances since his arrival in 2017, behind only Ian Rush and Roger Hunt in Liverpool's list of leading goalscorers.

The winger has been integral to the club's rise back to the top of English and European football, winning the Champions League and two Premier League titles among a clutch of trophies.

Salah also scooped the players' player of the year award a record three times and was the Premier League's top scorer on four occasions.

AFP (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Serie A Referees Chief Suspends Himself As Prosecutors Probe VAR Fraud

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:50:00 +0530

The head of referees for Serie A and Serie B has temporarily stepped aside after being placed under investigation by prosecutors in Milan for "sporting fraud".

Gianluca Rocchi said in a statement released on Saturday that he has decided to "suspend himself" from his role as the man who assigns referees to matches in Italy's top two divisions.

"This painful and difficult decision... is intended to allow the judicial proceedings, from which I am certain I will emerge unscathed, to run smoothly," said Rocchi.

VAR chief Andrea Gervasoni is also under investigation for the same charge.

Rocchi is accused, alongside other unnamed suspects, of having piloted the selection of Andrea Colombo as the referee for Inter Milan's match at Bologna in April last year as he was "liked by Inter".

Inter lost that match 1-0 to a last-minute strike from Riccardo Orsolini.

Rocchi is also accused of having pressured a VAR official to encourage referee Fabio Maresca to check on the pitchside monitors for a handball offence during Udinese's 1-0 win over Parma in March last year.

Both Maresca on the pitch and Daniele Paterna in the VAR room had already ruled the incident was not worth a penalty.

In a video of the VAR room, Paterna can be seen turning away from his monitors and saying "it's a penalty" after being spoken to by someone off-camera.

Prosecutors allege that it was Rocchi who had banged on the VAR room door in order to pressure Paterna to change his decision not to review the handball, which eventually led to Florian Thauvin scoring the only goal of the game.

Sporting fraud is a criminal offence in Italy with a maximum sentence of six years in prison, and the files will also be sent to the Italian Football Federation whose own prosecutors could open their own probe.

AFP (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

“Not Enough” – Pundit Gary Neville Predicts Arsenal’s Champions League Dream Will End in Semi-Finals

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:51:32 +0530

Manchester United legend Gary Neville has predicted that Arsenal will be eliminated by Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, insisting the Gunners should concentrate on their Premier League campaign.

Arsenal have endured a difficult spell, exiting both the FA Cup and EFL Cup while winning just two of their last seven matches in all competitions. Their dip in form has allowed Manchester City to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table. Despite being unbeaten in 12 Champions League matches this season, Neville believes Mikel Arteta’s side lack the experience to overcome Atletico Madrid.

Neville’s Assessment

Speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, the former defender said: “A lot of these players don’t know how to win a Champions League, but they’ve been so close in the title race, and they’ll be desperate not to fall short in that. I do think Mikel Arteta has to go for every single game, but he knows the Premier League is easier to win than the Champions League right now.”

Neville, who won eight Premier League titles with Manchester United, added: “I don’t see them getting past Atletico Madrid and the other teams in the semi-final, but I do see them having a chance with the league.”

Atletico Madrid have themselves been inconsistent, winning only two of their last nine matches across all competitions and losing seven, including defeat in the Copa del Rey final. Despite this poor run, Neville believes their European pedigree and experience will prove decisive against Arsenal.

Eze Praised After Newcastle Win

Arsenal’s recent 1-0 victory over Newcastle United offered some relief, with Eberechi Eze scoring the decisive ninth-minute goal. Declan Rice praised the midfielder’s impact, saying: “That’s what he’s been brought here to do. His ball-striking is unbelievable. What a player, what a guy, and he’s going to be massive for us these next few weeks. We really need him.”

Since joining Arsenal from Crystal Palace last summer in a deal worth up to £67.5 million, Eze has contributed 10 goals and six assists in 45 appearances. He is expected to feature against Atletico Madrid in the semi-final clash on April 29.

With only four Premier League matches remaining and three potential Champions League fixtures, Arsenal face a delicate balancing act. Arteta must manage his squad carefully as they chase a first-ever Champions League title while also fighting to secure domestic glory.

Neville’s comments show the pressure on Arsenal to prioritize their league campaign, where they remain in contention despite recent setbacks. The semi-final against Atletico Madrid will test both their resilience and their ability to rise to the occasion on Europe’s biggest stage.

FIFA Sets Historic $871 Million World Cup Cash Support Alongside Crackdown On Walk-Off Protests & Abuse

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:10:00 +0530

FIFA has announced a dramatic increase in financial distributions for the upcoming World Cup, raising the overall package to $871 million. The move comes amid concerns from member associations about spiraling costs linked to travel, tax, and operational expenses for the expanded 48-team tournament in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

The decision was confirmed following a meeting of FIFA’s ruling council in Vancouver ahead of Thursday’s Congress. The revised figure represents a significant jump from the $727 million initially announced in December.

Teams will now receive $2.5 million in preparation costs, up from $1.5 million, while the qualification payment has been raised from $9 million to $10 million. Additional support for delegation expenses and ticket allocations has also been included.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the organization’s strong financial position allowed for unprecedented reinvestment. “This is one more example of how FIFA’s resources are reinvested back into the game,” Infantino stated. FIFA projects earnings of around $13 billion from the current four-year cycle, underscoring the scale of the competition.

Record Cash Boost

The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history, with 48 teams competing across three host nations. Prize money had already been set at record levels compared to the 2022 edition, but Tuesday’s announcement further cements the financial scale of the event.

The increase comes as FIFA faces criticism over rising ticket prices and transport costs in host cities, particularly in the United States. Several associations had warned that participation could result in financial losses without additional support.

Law Changes Announced

Alongside the financial news, FIFA confirmed new disciplinary rules to be enforced at the tournament. Players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents will now face red cards, a measure aimed at combating racism.

The rule follows controversy earlier this year when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni was accused of racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior while concealing his mouth. Though Prestianni denied the allegations, he was banned for six matches, three of which were suspended.

Infantino defended the change, saying: “If you do not have something to hide, you don’t hide your mouth when you say something. That’s it, as simple as that.”

FIFA also introduced sanctions for players leaving the field in protest at referee decisions. Any player or team official inciting such action may be shown a red card, and teams causing abandonment will forfeit matches.

The measure comes after Senegal’s dramatic walk-off in the Africa Cup of Nations final earlier this year. Although Senegal went on to win 1-0 in extra time, the Confederation of African Football later stripped them of the title, sparking widespread debate.

Yellow Card Reset

Another change will see yellow cards reset after the group stage and again after the quarter-finals. The adjustment is designed to prevent star players from missing crucial knockout matches due to accumulated cautions.

This reform reflects FIFA’s desire to balance discipline with fairness, ensuring that the tournament’s biggest names remain available for decisive fixtures.

Kylian Mbappe Injury Update: What Happened to the Real Madrid Star & Will He Miss the FIFA World Cup 2026?

Vaishnav Akash — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 15:00:14 +0530

Real Madrid and France were dealt a major blow after Kylian Mbappe limped off with a suspected hamstring strain during Friday’s 1-1 draw against Real Betis. The forward’s milestone 100th appearance for Los Blancos ended prematurely, leaving both club and country anxious ahead of crucial fixtures.

Mbappe requested a substitution in the 81st minute at La Cartuja, bypassing the bench and heading straight to the dressing room. Gonzalo Garcia replaced him as Madrid conceded a stoppage-time equaliser to Hector Bellerin. Early assessments suggest the Frenchman has suffered a strain to his left hamstring, overshadowing what should have been a celebratory night.

Arbeloa’s Reaction

Manager Alvaro Arbeloa admitted uncertainty over the extent of the injury. “I have no idea [what’s wrong with Mbappe]. He felt some discomfort. We’ll see how he evolves over the next few days,” Arbeloa told reporters after the match. The setback adds to mounting pressure on the coach, with Madrid now eight points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Reports from ESPN indicated Kylian Mbappe requested the change due to leg pain. Journalist Sergio Kirante revealed preliminary exams showed an overload in the posterior muscle of his left leg. One source confirmed the injury was significant enough for Mbappe to head directly to the locker room, suggesting recovery time may be required.

- Kylian Mbappé is taken OFF, no goals for him tonight. pic.twitter.com/YkiKE05TlV

— The Touchline | (@TouchlineX) April 24, 2026

Impact On France

The injury news has sparked equal concern within the French national camp. With the 2026 World Cup in North America approaching, Kylian Mbappe’s fitness is critical. France open their campaign against Senegal on June 16, aiming for a third consecutive final. His absence would be a severe blow to preparations.

Beyond Kylian Mbappe’s injury, Real Madrid’s defensive lapses remain a concern. The team has failed to keep a clean sheet in 10 consecutive matches, a run that undermines their title challenge. The late equaliser against Betis highlighted vulnerabilities that have persisted throughout the season.

Epic in Paris: PSG vs Bayern Sets Semi-Final Scoring Record With Unforgettable 5-4 Clash

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:12:43 +0530

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele scored twice each as Paris Saint-Germain beat Bayern Munich 5-4 in an epic first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday -- an extraordinary encounter that was the highest-scoring match ever at this stage of the competition.

The first half alone was crazy, with Harry Kane giving Bayern the lead from a penalty, only for Kvaratskhelia to equalise before Joao Neves headed the hosts in front at an enthralled Parc des Princes.

Michael Olise made it 2-2, but a Dembele penalty in first-half stoppage time had the reigning champions back ahead at the interval.

Kvaratskhelia, surely the standout player in this season's Champions League, and Dembele both then scored again to have hosts PSG seemingly out of sight, only for Dayot Upamecano to pull one back before Luis Diaz made it 5-4.

An unforgettable game -- perhaps better even than last season's semi-final between Inter Milan and Barcelona -- leaves the tie between the continent's two best teams of the moment wonderfully poised for next Wednesday's return at the Allianz Arena, with a place in the final in Budapest on May 30 on the line.

"I'm sure everyone who loves football really enjoyed watching that. It was a real pleasure to play in that game, the kind of game we dream of playing in as kids," PSG captain Marquinhos told broadcaster Canal Plus.

His team will be returning to Munich -- scene of their 5-0 win over Inter in last year's final -- with the advantage, but Bayern will be confident they can overturn the narrow deficit at home.

"We fought and we clawed and we're back in the tie," Kane told Amazon Prime. "I thought there was amazing defending even though there were nine goals."

The French champions are seeking to become just the second side in the modern Champions League era to retain the trophy, while the German champions are hoping to reach the final for the first time since 2020, when they defeated PSG to lift the trophy for the sixth time.

- Instant classic -

Vincent Kompany's team arrived in Paris having scored 167 goals this season, led by the remarkable Kane and his 53 goals in 45 appearances.

This tie had a lot to live up to, after Bayern's spectacular win over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, but it was an instant classic as both teams showcased their devastating firepower.

Bayern went ahead in the 17th minute as Willian Pacho chopped down Diaz and Kane converted the resulting penalty for his 54th of the campaign.

The visitors won 2-1 here in November in the league phase thanks to a Diaz double and they were the better team early on this time.

But their front-foot approach made them vulnerable to the counter-attack, and PSG's leveller came just after the midway point in the first half.

The brilliant Kvaratskhelia broke clear of Josip Stanisic down the left before cutting inside and firing into the far corner.

A classic Kvaratskhelia goal was followed by Neves heading in Dembele's corner on 33 minutes.

The action was only just getting started, however, as French international Olise drove towards the PSG box before smashing in for 2-2.

PSG then won a penalty at the end of the first half when a Dembele cross struck the arm of Alphonso Davies, the Canadian making his first start in the Champions League this season after injury.

It was given by the Swiss referee after a VAR check, and Dembele beat Manuel Neuer to make it 3-2 at half-time -- a lead which PSG added to after the restart, leaving Bayern stunned.

Achraf Hakimi's assist was swept in by Kvaratskhelia for 4-2 on 56 minutes, the Georgian getting his seventh goal in seven games in the knockout phase.

Bayern were not able to reset before Dembele surprised Neuer with a shot in off the near post to make it 5-2 with his second of the night.

But Bayern were not done, as Upamecano headed in Joshua Kimmich's free-kick to take Kompany's side to 170 for their season tally.

Diaz, who was sent off in the November meeting, then dribbled past Marquinhos before slotting in for the night's final goal, making it 5-4.

Kompany, watching from the stands due to suspension, would have been delighted with his team's response -- even if they were relieved to see Senny Mayulu's late strike for PSG come back off Neuer's crossbar.

Real Madrid’s Eder Militao To Miss FIFA World Cup After Surgery On Serious Hamstring Injury

Vaishnav Akash — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:50:38 +0530

Real Madrid's Brazilian defender Eder Militao is set to miss the World Cup after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury on Tuesday.

"Our player Eder Militao underwent successful surgery today for a rupture of the proximal tendon of the biceps femoris in his left leg," Real Madrid said in a statement, without specifying how long the defender will be sidelined.

Operated on at a clinic in Finland under the supervision of the club's medical staff, the 28-year-old is expected to miss at least five months, according to the Spanish and Brazilian press.

Militao is therefore expected to be unavailable to play for record five-time World Cup winners Brazil this summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Real Madrid defender sustained the injury last week during a La Liga win over Alaves.

Militao has had terrible luck with injuries over the past few years since joining Madrid from Porto in 2019, including two lengthy absences for cruciate ligament ruptures.

“Let’s Embrace It” – Declan Rice Urges Arsenal To Seize Champions League Glory in Spain

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:59:57 +0530

Declan Rice has urged Arsenal to embrace the weight of history in their chase for a first Champions League crown ahead of Wednesday's semi-final trip to Atletico Madrid.

The Gunners travel to the Spanish capital for the first leg looking to move a step closer to only their second Champions League final appearance.

Mikel Arteta's side have been labelled English football's nearly men after three successive runners-up finishes in the Premier League.

They have fallen short in Europe as well, losing 3-1 on aggregate to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals last season and bowing out against Bayern Munich in the 2024 quarter-finals.

Arsenal have never won Europe's elite club competition, with their lone final ending in defeat against Barcelona in 2006.

The Premier League has become the London club's holy grail after their painful streak of near-misses in recent years.

But lifting the Champions League for the first time would be an equally fitting riposte to those doubting the mental strength of Arteta's men.

Just seven games separate Arsenal from the club's greatest ever season.

They sit three points clear of second-placed Manchester City in the Premier League title race, with four matches to play and five for Pep Guardiola's men.

Three games remain in the Champions League if Arsenal reach the final against PSG or Bayern in Budapest on May 30.

Rice wants his team-mates to prove their past experiences have made them battle-hardened for their pursuit of history.

"We've played in tough games in the last three or four years at the highest level, so we know what to expect and what's to come," the midfielder said.

"That's what it's been all season, and that's what we want it to be towards the end of the season.

"We're Champions League semi-finalists, let's embrace it, enjoy it and bring it on."

- Havertz, Eze doubts -

After losing two high-stakes showdowns with City recently -- a 2-0 League Cup final defeat and 2-1 loss in the Premier League -- the jury remains out on Arsenal's ability to get over the line when it matters most.

A fraught 1-0 win over Newcastle on Saturday was hardly a convincing response to the cynics.

But it did end a two-game losing run in the league and eased a little of the tension after four defeats in their previous six matches in all competitions.

Arsenal are sweating on the fitness of Eberechi Eze and Kai Havertz for the trip to Madrid after they limped off last weekend.

Eze had taken his goal tally for the season to 10 with a sublime strike against Newcastle.

The England midfielder has been a rare source of attacking inspiration in a side whose success has been build on a solid defensive foundations.

And Rice is desperate for his international team-mate to be fit to face Diego Simeone's side.

"That's what he's been brought here to do. I said a few weeks ago, his ball striking is unbelievable," he said.

“What a player, what a guy. He's going to be massive for us these next few weeks. We really need him.”

“We’re Unmatched” – PSG Boss Enrique Claims Superiority in Europe Before Champions League Showdown Against Bayern

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:14:03 +0530

Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique insisted Monday that no team in Europe could claim to be better than his right now as the French giants prepare for their Champions League semi-final showdown against Bayern Munich.

"These are the two best teams in Europe, even if Arsenal have also had a great season," the Spanish coach told reporters on the eve of the semi-final first leg at the Parc des Princes.

"In terms of consistency, maybe Bayern are a little bit above us. But we have shown that no team is better than us."

PSG are in the semi-finals for a third straight season since Luis Enrique became coach in 2023 and are hoping to claim back-to-back Champions League titles after winning the trophy for the first time last season.

They have reached this stage by defeating Chelsea and Liverpool in the last two rounds.

"It is a real pleasure and it is deserved. You need to be ambitious to get to this stage and I think we are. We still want to go that bit further," Luis Enrique said.

PSG and Bayern have already met three times since the start of last season: the Germans won 1-0 at home in the league phase in November 2024 and the Parisians triumphed 2-0 in a Club World Cup quarter-final last July in the United States, but Bayern won 2-1 in Paris in the league phase in November.

There have been concerns in the PSG camp about the fitness of Vitinha after the Portuguese playmaker sat out his team's last two games due to injury.

However, he was back in training on Monday in a big boost to the defending champions.

"Everyone is ready," said the coach, who also saw Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz make his first start in three months after injury last weekend as PSG beat Angers 3-0 in Ligue 1.

Ronaldo & Messi Extend Rivalry Into Club Ownership With Investments In Spanish Football Teams

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:54:13 +0530

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, whose rivalry defined world football for more than a decade, have now taken their competition off the pitch. The two icons have invested in Spanish clubs, opening a new chapter in their storied careers.

Ronaldo purchased a 25 percent stake in Almeria in February, while Messi recently took control of UE Cornella. Their moves mark a shift from exhibition matches to ownership, as both look to shape football beyond their playing days.

Ronaldo’s Almeria Investment

Almeria, currently third in the Segunda Division, are pushing for promotion back to LaLiga. Ronaldo’s involvement strengthens ties with Saudi Arabia, as the club is majority-owned by a consortium led by Mohammed Al-Khereiji, who played a role in Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr.

The club’s Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos seats 17,400, offering Ronaldo a platform far larger than Messi’s Cornella. His investment aligns with his long-stated ambition to own a major club. In 2024, Ronaldo said he wanted to fix structural flaws in European football institutions, hinting at ownership as his future path.

Ronaldo sees Almeria as a chance to diversify his business portfolio and continue his football links. He aims to boost commercial appeal, attract international interest, and strengthen both the first team and academy.

Messi’s Cornella Project

Messi’s choice of UE Cornella reflects his deep ties to Catalonia. The club plays in the fifth tier, the Tercera Federacion, with a modest 1,500-capacity stadium just five miles from Camp Nou. Cornella previously spent a decade in the third tier, and Messi’s arrival signals ambition to climb back up.

The announcement of his investment highlighted a commitment to developing local talent and reinforcing community roots. Cornella’s strong youth system was a clear attraction. Alumni include Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, Barcelona legend Jordi Alba, and Keita Balde, who scored prolifically before moving to Lazio.

Messi’s project is guided by sustainability and long-term growth, aiming to blend ambition with local identity.

Both clubs boast notable alumni. Almeria has produced stars like Alvaro Negredo, who earned a move to Real Madrid, and Darwin Nunez, now at Liverpool. Bruno, Tottenham’s assistant coach, also spent three years there.

Cornella’s youth ranks nurtured David Raya and Jordi Alba, while Keita Balde’s prolific spell showcased the club’s ability to develop talent despite limited resources.

Could They Face Each Other?

Currently, Almeria and Cornella are three divisions apart, making a competitive clash unlikely. A glamour friendly could be arranged, though Almeria may question its utility. The Copa del Rey offers another possibility, but Cornella failed to qualify for preliminary rounds this season.

Messi will hope Cornella rises through the pyramid, while Ronaldo pushes Almeria toward LaLiga. A future meeting would capture global attention, echoing their historic rivalry. Broader Trend

Both players already hold stakes elsewhere: Messi in Inter Miami and Ronaldo in Al-Nassr. Their moves reflect a growing trend of footballers transitioning into ownership after retirement, ensuring influence beyond their playing careers.

5 Unforgettable Moments Defining Millie Bright’s Legendary Career As She Officially Retires From Football

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:12:14 +0530

Millie Bright’s journey from Chelsea icon to Lionesses leader is filled with unforgettable highlights. Relive her biggest moments that defined women’s football before she stepped away from the international stage.

Millie Bright’s 88 caps for England weren’t just numbers, they were built on composure, pace, and an almost psychic read of the game. Her coming‑of‑age moment arguably came at UEFA Women’s EURO 2022, where she was one of the last lines of defence as England lifted the trophy at Wembley, mixing tight tackles with calm distribution under pressure.

She then captained the Lionesses to the 2023 FIFA Women Cup final, stepping into a leadership role that turned her from defensive rock into emotional heartbeat of the side.

Bright’s club legacy is anchored deep in her time with Chelsea, where she became the club’s most‑capped women’s player and a serial winner. A standout chapter came in the 2017-18 WSL season, when she hammered home a thunderous goal in a 2–2 draw against Manchester City, a result that kept Chelsea in the title race and boosted them toward a league and FA Cup double.

That ability to show up in the biggest domestic fixtures, whether clearing breakaways, stepping up in the box, or leading the line in a back‑three, helped Chelsea chase and win multiple league titles.

Even if you never follow women’s football, one clip of Millie Bright is likely to stick: her long‑range Wembley thunderbolt. In the 2020 Women’s FA Cup final, she punished a moment of hesitation from the opposition, striding forward and blasting a dipping, curling strike from outside the box that ripped into the net and sent the stadium into a roar.

That goal wasn’t just a viral highlight; it symbolised how she could flip from destroyer to creator in a heartbeat, earning special praise from her manager for stepping outside the defender’s comfort zone.

Bright’s later years at Chelsea were defined by relentless consistency and leadership, peaking in the 2024-25 domestic treble season. In the 2025 Women’s FA Cup final, she lifted the trophy as captain after Chelsea blitzed Manchester United 3–0, polishing off a domestic clean sweep of league, cup, and FA Cup.

That moment, standing at Wembley with the armband, surrounded by team‑mates, and soaking in the applause, cemented her status as a club icon, not just for her voting‑record stats but for the calm authority she exuded when the stakes were highest.

Beyond the trophies and TV‑friendly goals, some of Millie Bright’s best moments happened away from the spotlight. She battled through surgeries, long‑term strains, and the mental toll of a packed fixture list, yet kept turning up for England and Chelsea in crucial qualifiers and make‑or‑break league games.

Her retirement from England duty in 2025, taken after careful reflection and a desire to step back from the international grind, was less a whimper and more a controlled, dignified exit from a stage she had helped elevate for years. That decision itself, and the respect she earned from coaches and peers, may end up looking as iconic as any last‑minute tackle.

Michael Carrick’s Champions League Push Could Seal Permanent Role Amid United’s £1.3bn Debt

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:35:55 +0530

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick is closing in on Champions League qualification, a milestone that could secure his long-term future at Old Trafford. Victory over Brentford would not mathematically confirm United’s place among Europe’s elite, but the club is already preparing for midweek fixtures to return in September.

Carrick’s appointment in January came with the clear target of Champions League football, and he is now on the verge of delivering. United’s position in the top five is almost assured, with only Brighton and Bournemouth theoretically able to deny them if results swing dramatically.

Financial Stakes

Champions League qualification carries enormous financial weight. United could earn around £100m from UEFA’s prize pool, depending on performance. Last season, Paris Saint-Germain collected £125m as winners, while runners-up Inter Milan received £118m. In stark contrast, United earned just £31m from the Europa League after losing the final to Tottenham.

With debts rising to £1.3bn, the club views Champions League football as essential. Arsenal, for example, have already secured £50.57m this season by reaching the semi-finals, excluding TV revenue.

Michael Carrick’s Position

A report suggested last week that Michael Carrick is increasingly likely to be confirmed as permanent head coach. United officials insist they are not rushing the decision, but Champions League qualification is seen as the key factor.

Carrick met minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Carrington last week. “Yeah, he came in and we had a cup of tea,” Michael Carrick said. “It was a casual chat, to be honest. Quite informal. It was nice to see him showing his support obviously.”

Jim Ratcliffe is known to prefer a dominant personality in the dugout, but Carrick’s deep experience at United and calm approach have impressed. His backroom team, assembled quickly in January, includes Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, and Travis Binnion, all awaiting clarity on their futures.

Michael Carrick will welcome back Harry Maguire from suspension and could have Leny Yoro available after injury. United were forced to field a makeshift centre-back pairing of Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven in the 1-0 win over Chelsea.

Lisandro Martinez remains banned after his appeal against a red card for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair was rejected. Carrick expressed frustration at the inconsistency, noting Brentford’s Dango Ouattara escaped punishment for a similar incident days later.

Meanwhile, Matthijs De Ligt has returned to training after a back injury sustained in November. Carrick hopes the Dutch defender can feature before the season ends, though he insists there is no pressure to rush his recovery.

Bayern Fined €89,625 By UEFA After Fan Chaos Injures Photographers In Real Madrid Clash

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:40:42 +0530

Bayern Munich have been fined by UEFA but avoided a supporter lockout after photographers were injured when fans stormed over barriers during their Champions League quarter-final win over Real Madrid.

Earlier in April, Bayern scored twice in the final moments of the last-eight second leg at their Allianz Arena home to seal their spot in the semi-finals.

A group of fans from the Bayern ultras section climbed over barriers while celebrating, trampling pitch-side photographers.

One photographer reported a concussion while another suffered a head laceration, with others also needing medical treatment.

The governing body fined Bayern a total of 89,625 euros ($104,700), breaking the penalty down into 40,000 for spectator disturbances, 30,000 for a fan banner critical of UEFA, 14,000 for blocking aisles and 5,625 for throwing objects.

Despite the threat of a fan lockout for the second semi-final leg against Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern were confident of a full house.

"We expect to be able to celebrate a football festival with a full stadium against Paris," sporting director Christoph Freund said prior to UEFA's decision.

Mohamed Salah Injury Update: Liverpool Confirm Star Will Return Before Emotional Farewell At Anfield

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0530

Liverpool said on Wednesday that they expected Mohamed Salah to be "available to play again before the end of this season" after injury threatened to disrupt the star striker's farewell to Anfield.

Salah, who will leave the reigning Premier League champions after nine years at the end of the season, was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury in Saturday's 3-1 win at home to Crystal Palace.

Liverpool are awaiting the results of a scan to determine the extent of the problem, but with just four games of the campaign remaining, there were fears that the 33-year-old Egypt international may not feature again this season.

But a club statement issued on Wednesday said: "Liverpool FC can confirm Mohamed Salah is expected to be available to play again before the end of this season."

The statement added: "The issue that caused his withdrawal has now been confirmed as a minor muscle injury. It is, however, anticipated Salah will return to action ahead of 2025-26's conclusion and his departure from the Reds this summer."

Salah arrived from Roma in 2017 and has made more than 400 appearances for Liverpool to date, with his 257 goals for the Merseysiders leaving him third in the club's all-time goalscorers chart behind Ian Rush (346 goals) and Roger Hunt (285).

Salah has won four Premier League Golden Boots and starred for Liverpool in both their 2019/20 and 2024/25 title triumphs as well as lifting the 2019 Champions League trophy.

His Liverpool honours also include a Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FA Cup and two League Cups.

But with the goals drying up, his future at Anfield became the subject of intense speculation after a dramatic bust-up with Liverpool manager Arne Slot in December.

He accused Liverpool of throwing him "under the bus" after he was benched for three games in a row and said that he had no relationship with the Dutch boss.

Liverpool are currently fourth in the Premier League table, with four games remaining this season -- starting with Sunday's clash against arch-rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford -- and on course to compete in next term's Champions League.

Arsenal Denied Late Penalty As Alvarez Strike Earns Atletico Madrid 1-1 Draw In Semi-Final Thriller

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:09:42 +0530

Julian Alvarez's penalty secured Atletico Madrid a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in a nervy Champions League semi-final first leg clash on Wednesday.

Viktor Gyokeres sent the Premier League leaders ahead from the spot just before the interval after he was fouled, but Alvarez followed suit 10 minutes into the second half after Ben White's handball.

Arsenal were upset at a late penalty decision being overturned following a VAR review when David Hancko made contact with Eberechi Eze in the area.

"I'm incredibly fuming," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta. "It's a clear and very obvious penalty."

Atletico had the better for long periods but Arsenal's solid defending helped them leave the Spanish capital in a good position to return to the Champions League final 20 years after their last appearance.

"Here, you have to suffer," Arteta told Movistar. "Many teams have suffered here, including some of the best in the world.

"We had some good moments in the match and moments where we had to suffer. The margins are very slim."

Atletico captain Koke said his side could be proud of how they played in the second half.

"We were the team we have to be -- if we play at this level we can win," Koke told Movistar.

"From my point of view they didn't create much danger against us... the team defended well and they just had that penalty."

What the game lacked in the dizzying goal rush of Paris Saint-Germain's 5-4 win over Bayern Munich in the other semi-final the night before, it replaced with tension and a desperation not to fall behind.

Toilet paper rained down from the stands of the Metropolitano stadium minutes before kick-off, in a striking -- if wasteful -- display, which invited cynical jokes from some quarters about the calibre of the spectacle ahead.

In a tussle between arguably the continent's two biggest teams never to lay a finger on the trophy neither wanted to blink first.

Atletico still have an old-style defensive reputation but pinned Mikel Arteta's miserly Arsenal back in the early stages, with David Raya tipping Alvarez's shot around the post.

The Gunners, a long way from Arteta's eve-of-the-game demand they dominate proceedings, looked to smash and grab.

Noni Madueke, starting on Arsenal's right flank with Bukayo Saka only fit for the bench, hammered just wide as last year's beaten semi-finalists sporadically emerged from their half.

The next time they did, Gyokeres won a penalty. The Swedish striker, who might not have started if Kai Havertz had been fit, exchanged passes with Martin Zubimendi and Hancko clumsily shoved him in the back from behind.

Diego Simeone and Atletico veteran Antoine Griezmann begged for the decision to be reviewed but VAR saw no reason to intervene.

Gyokeres took the spot-kick himself, walloping it past Jan Oblak, who dived the right way but stood no chance of keeping it out.

- Atletico battle back -

Three-time runners-up Atletico, back in the semi-finals for the first time in nine years, came out guns blazing in the second half.

Raya saved Ademola Lookman's drive with Gabriel blocking Griezmann's follow-up.

The hosts pulled level from the penalty spot after White handled Marcos Llorente's shot, the ball bouncing up and hitting his arm, which was away from his body.

Alvarez took it, and having missed in Atletico's Copa del Rey final shoot-out defeat earlier in April, this time made no mistake with an unforgiving blast rivalling Gyokeres's first-half effort.

MLS-bound Griezmann looped a shot off the crossbar and then sent the rebound off target as Atletico turned the screw in pursuit of an advantage to take into next Tuesday's second leg.

"This is what we have to do in the away game," said Griezmann. "(The second half) was much better in terms of intensity."

Nigeria international Lookman twice came close and could end up ruing his missed chances, kept out by the alert Raya.

Arsenal thought they had won a second penalty when substitute Eze went down under a sluggish Hancko challenge but to their fury the referee changed his mind after a VAR review, deciding the Slovakian defender's contact was minimal.

Arsenal next take on Fulham as they continue their battle with Manchester City for the Premier League title, while with little to play for in La Liga Simeone will rotate heavily, before this tie is decided in London.

AFP (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

“Closer to the End” – Cristiano Ronaldo Opens Up on Legacy, Goals, and Desire To Finish With Titles

Vaishnav Akash — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:34:17 +0530

Cristiano Ronaldo has acknowledged that the end of his glittering career is drawing closer, but insisted he continues to enjoy every moment on the pitch. Speaking in a recent interview, the Portuguese star reflected on his journey, his goals, and his determination to finish on a high.

The 41-year-old forward, who has played across generations, said he remains motivated by the joy of competing. “I keep playing not only for this generation, but also for the previous one and the one coming next. I enjoy it day by day, game by game, year by year, even as I get closer to the end of my career. That’s a fact,” Ronaldo explained.

Ronaldo’s Perspective On His Journey

Ronaldo described his career as “brilliant” and emphasized his desire to maintain that standard until the very end. “My career has been brilliant and I want to keep it that way. I still enjoy it, I keep scoring goals… but above all, it’s about winning. And we really want to win the league,” he said.

The forward’s comments underline his competitive spirit, which has defined his career from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and beyond. Despite his age, Ronaldo continues to deliver goals and remains a central figure in his team’s pursuit of silverware.

❤️‍ Cristiano Ronaldo: “The end of my career is getting closer… let’s enjoy every game”.“I keep playing not only for this generation, but also for the previous one and the one coming next. I enjoy it day by day, game by game, year by year, even as I get closer to the end of my… pic.twitter.com/q66daTag8Q

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 30, 2026

While reflecting on his legacy, Ronaldo made clear that his focus is firmly on the present. He stressed that winning remains the ultimate priority, even as he acknowledges the reality of nearing retirement. His words resonated with fans who have followed his career for two decades, highlighting the balance between celebrating past achievements and striving for current success.

The Drive To Keep Competing

Ronaldo’s insistence on enjoying the game “day by day” reflects his approach to longevity in football. His ability to adapt, maintain fitness, and continue scoring has kept him relevant in a sport where careers often fade quickly.

The interview also showcased his awareness of the expectations placed on him. By mentioning different generations, Ronaldo positioned himself as a bridge between eras, a player whose influence extends beyond statistics. His continued presence on the pitch is not only about personal milestones but also about inspiring teammates and supporters.

Arsenal Seek Redemption Against Newcastle As Spurs & West Ham Struggle To Escape Relegation Trouble

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:33:56 +0530

Arsenal can reclaim the Premier League summit this weekend as in-form Manchester City focus on the FA Cup, while Tottenham and West Ham battle to avoid the final relegation spot.

Mikel Arteta's Gunners have watched their imposing nine-point lead vanish quickly, with City currently top on goals scored.

One relegation spot remains to be decided after Wolves and Burnley dropped into the second tier this week while the battle for European football is tight.

AFP Sport looks at three talking points ahead of the action:

Arsenal's last chance

Manchester City and Arsenal are locked together on 70 points, with five games left. Both teams have a plus-37 goal difference.

Two things separate the teams -- the number of goals scored and experience of getting over the line.

City, who have netted three more times than Arsenal, have never failed to go on and win the title having led after 33 games or more in the Premier League.

The Gunners, who lost 2-1 at the Etihad last weekend, can return to the top with a win or a draw at home to Newcastle, with City taking on Southampton in the FA Cup semi-finals.

The following week, Mikel Arteta's men play first, meaning they could be six points clear before City face Everton on May 4.

Perennial runners-up Arsenal, who have the easier run-in on paper, must shrug off their recent collapse and put the pressure back on City.

The Blues, currently topping the table for the first time since August, are favourites but it is not over yet.

Spurs scrap

Tottenham desperately need a win at relegated Wolves on Saturday to restore hope that they can avoid dropping down to the second tier for the first time in nearly 50 years.

The London team, now under the leadership of Roberto De Zerbi, are still winless in the Premier League since December after conceding a late goal in last weekend's draw with Brighton.

Spurs, 18th in the table, are two points from safety with five games left.

This week the club posted an advert for a lead psychologist as De Zerbi focuses on improving the squad's mentality.

"I have no time to see negative people, to see sad players or sad assistants," the Italian said after the Brighton match.

West Ham, in 17th spot, host Everton on Saturday while Nottingham Forest, three points above the Hammers, travel to face Sunderland on Friday. Leeds, on 40 points, are all but safe.

Analysts Opta predict Spurs will go down but a win could inject new confidence into the side.

Champions League race alive

The heat has come out of the race to finish in the top five, with Manchester United, Aston Villa and Liverpool all comfortably on course to secure Champions League football next season.

In-form Brighton have not given up the chase, even though they are five points behind fifth-placed Liverpool and have played a game extra.

Fabian Hurzeler's men, who destroyed hapless Chelsea 3-0 this week, have won six of their past eight league games to stay in the hunt.

And the side that finishes sixth could still qualify for Europe's top club competition, giving extra incentive to a clutch of clubs from Brighton, in sixth spot, all the way down to Fulham, in 12th.

For that to happen, Villa would need to win the Europa League and finish fifth in the Premier League.

Fixtures (all times GMT)

Friday

Sunderland v Nottingham Forest (1900)

Saturday (1400 unless stated)

Fulham v Aston Villa (1130), Liverpool v Crystal Palace, West Ham v Everton, Wolves v Tottenham, Arsenal v Newcastle (1630)

Monday

Manchester United v Brentford (1900)

AFP (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

“No Fight Left” – Supporters Slam Kylian Mbappe’s Attitude After Injury Rules Him Out for Real Madrid

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:15:59 +0530

Real Madrid have announced that Kylian Mbappé will miss the remainder of the season after sustaining an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg. The French forward’s absence leaves Los Blancos without one of their most influential players as the campaign draws to a close.

The club confirmed the diagnosis, stating that the problem will sideline Mbappé until the summer. While the setback rules him out of domestic competition, it is expected to allow him to recover fully in time for the upcoming World Cup.

Mbappé’s injury effectively ends his pursuit of the Pichichi trophy, a battle he had been engaged in throughout his second season in Madrid. Despite scoring consistently, his campaign concludes without a single title, a disappointment for both the player and the club. Looking Ahead

Although the news is a blow for Real Madrid, the assurance that Mbappé will be fit for international duty provides some consolation. His recovery timeline means he should be available to represent France at the World Cup, beginning in June.

The injury marks a frustrating conclusion to his season in Spain, leaving questions about how Madrid will cope without his presence in the final stretch of fixtures.

Kylian Mbappé will reportedly NOT play again this season for Real Madrid. ❌A worrying fitness update just weeks before the World Cup. (Source: @jpedrerol) pic.twitter.com/1D02RcPeD1

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 27, 2026

: Kylian Mbappé will do everything possible to be ready for the Clasico on May 10. — @damiancasol pic.twitter.com/dWc4DOQBaP

— The Touchline | (@TouchlineX) April 27, 2026

Lo de Mbappe es para enmarcar! El nivel dictatorial es enorme, ojalá se retire en el Madrid!

— Giankee (@giankito16) April 27, 2026

First Yamal injury and now Mbappe injury both players who helped Barca win the league out at the same time https://t.co/cc27kbIPEs

— Raph (@fcbRaph) April 27, 2026

Mbappe es de los personajes más inteligentes que he visto, hace todos los pasos a la perfección, cantaba mucho la amarilla vs Espanyol para perderse el clásico así que toca fingir lesión, chapó, a ver cuánto nos dura

— Víctor (@Zhurallas) April 27, 2026

Xavi Simons Knee Injury Clouds Tottenham Survival Fight & Shatters Netherlands' FIFA World Cup Hopes

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:46:48 +0530

Xavi Simons is out of Tottenham's Premier League relegation fight and this summer's World Cup with a knee injury, the Dutch star said, describing himself as "heartbroken".

The 23-year-old midfielder was left clutching his right knee and was stretchered off in distress in Tottenham's crucial 1-0 win at already relegated Wolves on Saturday.

In an emotional post on social media late Sunday, Simons said his season was over, with reports suggesting he may have sustained a serious ACL injury that could keep him out for several months.

"They say life can be cruel and today it feels that way," Simons, who has played 34 times for his country, wrote on Instagram.

"My season has come to an abrupt end and I'm just trying to process it.

"Honestly, I'm heartbroken. None of it makes sense.

"All I've wanted to do is fight for my team and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me, along with the World Cup.

"Representing my country this summer, just gone."

Simons' injury is a major blow to new Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi, whose side are two points from Premier League safety with four matches remaining.

He would also have played a key part for the Netherlands at the World Cup in North America starting on June 11.