Revisiting the 2012 Barcelona masterclass that led Wayne Rooney to declare Lionel Messi the GOAT:Lionel Messi tops The Athletic's ranking of the 100 greatest footballers, with Wayne Rooney reaffirming his belief that Messi is the best ever. Messi's World Cup win in 2022 cemented his legacy, combining stats, trophies, and unforgettable moments.
Messi mania hits India: monumental statue to be created that will make history:Lionel Messi will visit India for the unveiling of a 21m fiberglass statue in Kolkata, depicting his 2022 World Cup triumph. The 'GOAT Tour' includes events in four cities, a 70,000-capacity ceremony, and a meeting with PM Narendra Modi.
Man Utd in for ‘superb’ South American winger as Kobbie Mainoo picks next club:Manchester United, Liverpool, and Aston Villa are competing to sign Anderlecht winger Nilson Angulo, valued at €30m. The 22-year-old has 4 goals and 8 assists this season, attracting Premier League interest for his attacking and defensive prowess.
Fans’ group calls for immediate halt to 2026 World Cup ticket sales:Football Supporters Europe (FSE) urges FIFA to suspend 2026 World Cup ticket sales, citing prices five times higher than 2022. Following a team to the final could cost $6,900, far exceeding initial promises of $2,242.
Karim Benzema explains Real Madrid struggles under Xabi Alonso – “What they lack is…”:Karim Benzema claims Real Madrid's struggles stem from player roles, not coach Xabi Alonso. He highlights disconnect between Mbappe, Vinicius, Bellingham, and Rodrygo, urging clarity in their positions. Madrid lost last two matches, increasing pressure on Alonso.
Cristiano Ronaldo smiles: James Rodríguez and Colombia receive a hard blow ahead of the upcoming World Cup:Colombia's James Rodríguez remains without a club six months before the World Cup, despite recent links to Pumas UNAM. The playmaker's future is uncertain as Colombia prepares for a high-stakes Group K clash against Portugal.
UEL | Celtic 0-3 Roma: Ferguson nets first European goals:AS Roma dominated Celtic 3-0 in the Europa League with Evan Ferguson scoring twice and an own goal from Liam Scales. The victory moves Roma closer to the knockout rounds, lifting them to 10th in the table.
Inter Miami permanently acquire Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid:Inter Miami exercised their option to sign Rodrigo De Paul permanently from Atletico Madrid. The Argentine midfielder, who scored the MLS Cup-winning goal, joins as a Designated Player through 2029.
Basel 1–2 Aston Villa: Youri Tielemans strike ends Swiss side’s 10-year Europa League home run:Aston Villa secured a 2-1 away win over Basel in the Europa League, with Evann Guessand and Youri Tielemans scoring. Basel's equalizer was ruled offside, and they missed late chances to level, suffering their first home defeat in the competition since 2015.
Sergio Ramos: INEOS take decisive stance on long‑term Manchester United defensive target:Manchester United have ruled out signing veteran defender Sergio Ramos, despite his free agent status. Reports confirm no talks took place, with United prioritizing younger targets like Elche's David Affengruber for defensive reinforcements.
Man Utd in for ‘superb’ South American winger as Kobbie Mainoo picks next club:Manchester United, Liverpool, and Aston Villa are competing to sign Anderlecht winger Nilson Angulo, valued at €30m. The 22-year-old has 4 goals and 8 assists this season, attracting Premier League interest for his attacking and defensive prowess.
Ruben Amorim's clear stance as Man Utd presented with chance to shed £7.8m from wage bill:Manchester United faces key January decisions as Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo's futures remain uncertain. Zirkzee is wanted by Roma on loan, while Mainoo eyes Napoli move. Both players' departures could prompt squad reshuffling under Ruben Amorim.
⭐ Europa League & Europa Conference League: the 3️⃣ standout men of the night:Martial Godo led Strasbourg to a 1-0 win at Aberdeen, Samu Aghehowa scored twice in Porto's 2-1 victory over Malmö, and Talisca's hat-trick powered Fenerbahçe to a 4-0 rout of 10-man Brann in Europa League action.
Manchester United Are Eyeing A Move For This La Liga Defender: Good Option For Amorim?:Manchester United are targeting Elche's Austrian defender David Affengruber for a potential transfer next year. The 24-year-old has impressed in La Liga with 81 clearances and 87.5% pass accuracy this season.
Barcelona have Gavi return date in mind as recovery update revealed:Barcelona midfielder Gavi, out since August with a knee injury, is recovering well and could return by February. His absence has been a major blow, but his rehabilitation is progressing as planned, with a Champions League play-off as a potential comeback match.
Marcus Rashford delighted with start to life at Barcelona – “I’m already starting to feel at home”:Marcus Rashford is enjoying life at Barcelona, adapting well off the pitch and contributing to community initiatives. Though recently benched, he aims to stay permanently, with Barcelona holding a buy option.
Manchester United’s cost-cutting begins to show as operating profit rises:Manchester United reported a £13m operating profit despite a 2% revenue dip to £140.3m. Cost-cutting measures under INEOS have streamlined operations, with major transfers likely delayed until summer.
Enzo Maresca Needs a Chelsea Rethink Against Their Oldest Foe:Chelsea's struggles against deep defences continue, with recent defeats and a dull 0-0 draw raising concerns over Enzo Maresca's tactics. The team's inconsistency and baffling selections highlight persistent issues against low-block opponents.