PSG Fully Focused on Coupe de France Final, Says Luis Enrique: Champions League No Distraction

Robert Starling    Friday, May 23, 2025    Comment   

PSG Fully Focused on Coupe de France Final, Says Luis Enrique: Champions League No Distraction

PSG Fully Focused on Coupe de France Final, Says Luis Enrique: Champions League No Distraction.

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique made it clear that the team's focus is 100% on the Coupe de France final against Reims — and not distracted by the upcoming Champions League showdown.

So far this season, PSG has already secured the Ligue 1 title and the Trophee des Champions. But there’s still more silverware up for grabs, with just two games left to play. First up: the Coupe de France final this Saturday against Reims. After that, PSG will look to make history by chasing their first-ever Champions League title when they face Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in Munich on May 31.

“Every professional player knows that playing in a final is something special,” Luis Enrique told reporters. “It’s a unique game where every little detail matters.”

He continued, “It’s not hard to stay focused on Saturday’s match. None of the players are distracted. We’ve been chasing greatness from day one… Now we’re here, and it’s time to finish the job.”

PSG is aiming for their 16th Coupe de France trophy and is considered a heavy favorite against Reims, who are currently battling in the Ligue 1 relegation playoffs. According to Opta’s supercomputer, PSG has an 80.4% chance of winning in regular time, while Reims only has a 7.8% chance. There's an 11.7% chance the match could end in a draw, which would take it to extra time and potentially penalties.

“It doesn’t matter what Reims is going through,” said Luis Enrique. “We know how to find spaces and exploit their weaknesses. A lot can happen in one game, so we need to be fully prepared. Luckily, we still have one more day to fine-tune everything.”

He also stressed how important it is not to let this opportunity slip. “In finals, you don’t get second chances. You go all out. Everyone will give 130% to lift this trophy.”

While PSG has already wrapped up the domestic league, Inter Milan is still deep in the Serie A title race. They’ll face Como on Friday, with the title coming down to the wire between league leaders Napoli and second-placed Inter. If both teams finish with the same number of points, there will be a playoff on Monday to determine the champion.

“Sometimes, it’s actually better to stay under pressure until the end. It keeps you sharp,” Luis Enrique explained. “I’m not sure if it’s a good or bad thing that we finished early, but I try to look at the bright side of our schedule.”

Carlo Ancelotti Bids Farewell to Real Madrid, Ready for New Challenge as Brazil Head Coach

Robert Starling    Friday, May 23, 2025    Comment   

Carlo Ancelotti Bids Farewell to Real Madrid, Ready for New Challenge as Brazil Head Coach

Carlo Ancelotti Bids Farewell to Real Madrid, Ready for New Challenge as Brazil Head Coach.

Carlo Ancelotti is set to lead Real Madrid for the final time this Saturday when they face Real Sociedad, before officially stepping into his new role as Brazil’s national team head coach.

The legendary Italian manager has made it clear—he has no plans to coach another club after leaving Madrid. His sights are now set on the exciting challenge of guiding the Seleção.

Earlier this month, Brazil confirmed that Ancelotti would take over once the LaLiga season wraps up. That makes this weekend’s match not just another game, but a special farewell for a coach who has left a huge mark on the club.

Over two separate stints with Real Madrid, Ancelotti has collected an incredible 15 trophies, making him the most successful coach in the club’s history when it comes to silverware.

He’s also the only manager to win league titles in all five of Europe’s top domestic leagues—and his 2021-22 LaLiga title with Madrid helped solidify that record. On top of that, he holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in LaLiga history: 42 matches between September 2023 and October 2024 (31 wins, 11 draws).

When asked if he would ever return to Real Madrid after coaching Brazil, Ancelotti gave an honest answer.

"I don’t know. I’ve always said I didn’t want to coach another club after Madrid, and that hasn’t changed," he told reporters. "Right now, my focus is doing well with Brazil."

Ancelotti says he's thrilled to join the most successful national team in World Cup history. “I love the idea of preparing a team like Brazil for a World Cup,” he said. “And I’m happy I won’t be betraying Madrid by joining another club.”

On Instagram, Ancelotti posted a heartfelt goodbye to the Madrid faithful.

"We go our separate ways again. I carry every moment of this amazing second chapter with Real Madrid in my heart," he wrote. "These years have been unforgettable—full of emotion, trophies, and pride. Representing this badge has been an honor."

He also thanked club president Florentino Pérez, the players, his staff, and the fans. “The magical nights at the Bernabéu are now part of football history.”

Ancelotti’s contract was originally set to run until June 2026. He has won the UEFA Champions League three times with Madrid and holds the record for most Champions League titles by a coach (five). He’s also the only coach to reach six Champions League finals.

Despite all that success, Madrid will end this season trophyless. They lost the LaLiga title to rivals Barcelona, who also beat them in both the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España finals.

Rumors are already swirling about his replacement. Former Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is reportedly at the top of the list. Alonso is expected to leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, and Madrid hopes to have him in place before the FIFA Club World Cup begins on June 15.

Ancelotti had nothing but support for his former player: “Everyone has their own coaching style. Xabi should enjoy Madrid. I wish him all the best. He has what it takes.”

Saturday’s match will also be the final appearance at the Santiago Bernabéu for Luka Modrić, the 39-year-old club legend and 2018 Ballon d’Or winner. He’s set to leave after the Club World Cup.

Ancelotti admitted it’s going to be emotional.

“I get emotional pretty easily. It’s going to be a special day. If I cry, it’s okay,” he said. “Sharing that goodbye with Modrić—someone who’s been a true legend and a great support—is going to be something beautiful.”

Harry Kane Congratulates Tottenham After Ending 17-Year Trophy Drought with Europa League Win

Robert Starling    Thursday, May 22, 2025    Comment   

Harry Kane Congratulates Tottenham After Ending 17-Year Trophy Drought with Europa League Win

Harry Kane Congratulates Tottenham After Ending 17-Year Trophy Drought with Europa League Win.

Finally, Tottenham Hotspur’s long wait is over! After 17 years without a trophy, Spurs made history by winning the 2025 Europa League, beating Manchester United 1-0 in the final.

This victory is more than just any trophy — it’s Tottenham’s first European title since 1984. It’s no surprise that fans are celebrating this moment wildly, especially since Spurs had often been teased by rivals for their long trophy drought.

Interestingly, one of Tottenham’s all-time legends, Harry Kane, took to social media to send his congratulations. Even though he no longer wears the Spurs jersey, his support felt genuine and heartfelt.

For those who don’t know, Kane spent 11 seasons at Tottenham from 2012 to 2023. He played 317 Premier League matches and became the club’s all-time top scorer with 280 goals across all competitions. Unfortunately, during his time with Spurs, Kane never managed to win a trophy.

It wasn’t until he moved to Bayern Munich at the start of the 2023/2024 season that Kane finally lifted his first major trophy — winning the Bundesliga in 2025.

Many would say watching Tottenham lift the Europa League trophy must have been bittersweet for Kane — sweet because his former club finally succeeded, but also a bit painful since he wasn’t part of that historic moment.

Still, Kane showed maturity and great sportsmanship. Through his social media posts, he congratulated Tottenham and their fans on their amazing achievement in the Europa League.

Tottenham’s Europa League triumph could be a turning point for the club’s future. It proves that hard work and patience do pay off. And even though Kane has moved on to a new chapter with Bayern, his legacy at Spurs lives on — he remains respected and remembered as an irreplaceable club icon.

Tottenham’s Europa League final victory isn’t just a historic moment; it’s an emotional one, especially for former players like Harry Kane. His heartfelt congratulations show how much he still loves his old club, even from afar.

Tottenham Ends Trophy Drought! Beats Manchester United 1-0 in Tense Europa League Final

Robert Starling    Wednesday, May 21, 2025    Comment   

Tottenham Ends Trophy Drought! Beats Manchester United 1-0 in Tense Europa League Final

Tottenham Hotspur finally ended their 17-year trophy drought by winning the 2025 Europa League final, defeating Manchester United 1-0 at San Mames, Bilbao. Brennan Johnson scored the only goal of the match, securing a historic European title for Spurs under Ange Postecoglou. With this victory, Tottenham fans celebrate a long-awaited moment of glory, while Manchester United faces another season of disappointment.

Finally, after 17 long years, Tottenham Hotspur can finally celebrate! Ange Postecoglou’s team claimed the 2025 Europa League title with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester United at San Mames, Bilbao, in a dramatic and intense final.

A single goal from Brennan Johnson sealed the victory on what became a historic night for Spurs. While the match wasn’t the most thrilling in terms of gameplay, the result is one that Tottenham fans will cherish forever.

The winning goal came just before halftime. It all started with a cross from Pape Matar Sarr on the left. Brennan Johnson flicked it near the goal, and the ball deflected off Luke Shaw, fooling goalkeeper Andre Onana who was left helpless.

Manchester United had several chances to equalize, but their finishing let them down. Bruno Fernandes failed to convert a golden opportunity, and Rasmus Hojlund almost scored — if not for a heroic goal-line clearance by Micky van de Ven.

In the second half, United pushed even harder, but still couldn’t break through Tottenham’s solid defense. In the dying minutes, Garnacho’s shot and Shaw’s header were both denied by goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who stayed calm and composed throughout the night.

Before the final, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou was doubted by many in the media. But tonight, he silenced all the critics. This was his 100th match in charge of Tottenham — and he capped it off with the club’s first European trophy since 1984!

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Ange has delivered silverware in his second season. He’s done it in Australia, Japan, and Scotland — always lifting titles in his sophomore year. So when he said, "the second season is the time to win," he really meant it.

Even though Tottenham has struggled in the Premier League, this Europa League title brings immense joy to their fans. It might just be the most beautiful night in the club’s modern history.

On the flip side, it was heartbreak for Manchester United. What once looked like a promising season ended in bitter disappointment.

Coach Ruben Amorim is now under the microscope. His brutally honest approach — even calling United "the worst team in the club’s history" at one point — may have backfired.

United had 16 attempts in the match, but only a couple truly threatened Spurs’ goal. Their expected goals (xG) stood at just 0.85 — far from enough for a team desperate for a win. To make matters worse, this was their 20th loss across all competitions this season — their worst record since their relegation season in 1974.

Tottenham has ended their trophy drought and written a new chapter in their European history. Meanwhile, Manchester United continues to spiral in a season filled with setbacks.

This title is about more than just a win on the scoresheet. It’s about rebuilding hope, igniting fresh ambition, and proving that hard work and patience can pay off.

For Spurs fans, the night in Bilbao will never be forgotten. For United, it’s time for serious reflection.

Lamine Yamal Set to Sign New Barcelona Contract, Joan Laporta Super Confident

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Lamine Yamal Set to Sign New Barcelona Contract, Joan Laporta Super Confident

Lamine Yamal Set to Sign New Barcelona Contract, Joan Laporta Super Confident.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has shared some exciting news for Barça fans: the club is working hard behind the scenes to secure a contract extension for none other than Lamine Yamal, and things are looking really good.

Yamal, who’s set to turn 18 this July, is expected to sign a new long-term deal with the club during the offseason. After a breakout season, the young star has quickly become one of Barcelona’s most important players — and Laporta knows it.

With 18 goals and 21 assists across all competitions this season, Yamal has proven he’s the real deal. Only Raphinha has more assists than him (22), and that says a lot.

Laporta couldn’t stop praising the youngster.

“It’s going well. He’s exceptional. And most importantly, he’s happy at Barça,” Laporta said in an interview with TV3.

“When you have a player like Lamine, who’s exploded onto the scene like he has, you have to treat him in a special way. He’s not your average player.”

Laporta also emphasized that everything with Yamal’s team has been smooth so far, and he’s confident the renewal will be wrapped up soon.

“We want him here for many years. Our long-term approach is key. So far, there’s been no issues at all. On the contrary, things are going great,” he added.

Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong Also in Contract Talks

Yamal isn’t the only player Barça wants to lock down for the future. Laporta also gave updates on Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong, two more key figures in the squad.

Raphinha had a monster season — 56 appearances, 34 goals, and 22 assists. That’s 56 goal contributions, making him the most productive LaLiga player across all competitions this season. Impressive, right?

“Raphinha’s new deal will happen,” said Laporta. “Deco has a great relationship with him. He feels fully invested in the project. We’ll find an agreement — both sides want to make it work.”

When it comes to Frenkie de Jong, things are a bit more urgent. His current contract runs out next year, and Barça isn’t taking any chances.

“Frenkie knows where we stand. We’ve had conversations. He’s very motivated and wants to stay. We love the Dutch style of play, and with Frenkie, we control the game better,” Laporta explained.

With rising superstar Lamine Yamal, fan favorite Raphinha, and midfield maestro Frenkie de Jong all in line for contract renewals, things are really coming together for Barcelona. Locking down these key players is a huge step forward as the club continues to rebuild with a strong foundation.

So, for Barça fans — get excited. The future is bright, and it’s being built around young talent that’s already making headlines.

Kevin De Bruyne Almost as Good as Messi at Passing, Says Pep Guardiola

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Kevin De Bruyne Almost as Good as Messi at Passing, Says Pep Guardiola

Kevin De Bruyne Almost as Good as Messi at Passing, Says Pep Guardiola.

As the Premier League season nears its end, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola had nothing but praise for Kevin De Bruyne. But while he called De Bruyne a phenomenal passer, Guardiola still placed him second-best — behind none other than Lionel Messi.

De Bruyne: World-Class, But Not No. 1

Pep has worked with some of the best midfielders in the world, including Xavi, Iniesta, and David Silva. Yet when asked who the greatest passer he’s coached is, his answer was clear: “Messi is first, Kevin De Bruyne is second.”

According to Guardiola, Messi stands out because of his ability to deliver mind-blowing passes in the most dangerous areas of the field — right near the opponent’s box. That said, De Bruyne is not far behind.

“Kevin is unique,” Pep said. “Just look at the stats — goals, assists, what he creates in the final third. That’s why he’s been one of the greatest players in this club’s history.”

The End of an Era at Manchester City

Last month, De Bruyne announced that he would leave Manchester City at the end of the season, once his contract expires. After 10 unforgettable years in a City shirt and helping the club win 16 trophies, his final home appearance will likely come against Bournemouth in their second-to-last Premier League match.

Under Guardiola, De Bruyne has made 258 league appearances, delivered 109 assists, and completed over 10,600 of his 12,889 passes with 82.4% accuracy. Even in the attacking half, he maintains a solid 80% pass accuracy.

For comparison, Messi made 136 LaLiga appearances for Pep’s Barcelona, completing 6,354 of 7,479 passes (85% accuracy) and notching 55 assists during that time.

Finding a Replacement? Easier Said Than Done

Manchester City had reportedly shown interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz and Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White as potential replacements for De Bruyne. But it seems the club has backed off from pursuing Wirtz.

Guardiola admitted that filling De Bruyne’s shoes won’t be easy.

“Some players are just incredibly hard to replace — and Kevin is definitely one of them,” said Pep. “But football moves on, and so do we.”

Kevin De Bruyne’s departure will undoubtedly leave a huge gap in Manchester City’s midfield. But his legacy is set in stone. According to Pep Guardiola, only Messi tops him when it comes to passing and playmaking. For City fans and football lovers everywhere, De Bruyne will always be remembered as one of the game’s modern-day maestros.

Angel Gomes Confirms Lille Exit: Manchester United and Tottenham Among Clubs Eyeing His Return

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Angel Gomes Confirms Lille Exit: Manchester United and Tottenham Among Clubs Eyeing His Return

Angel Gomes Confirms Lille Exit: Manchester United and Tottenham Among Clubs Eyeing His Return.

Angel Gomes has officially announced that he’ll be leaving Lille as a free agent when his contract expires this summer. The 24-year-old midfielder shared an emotional farewell message on social media, opening the door for a potential return to the Premier League—with Manchester United, Tottenham, Newcastle, and West Ham all reportedly interested.

For those who may not know, Gomes came up through Manchester United’s academy, joining at the age of six. Once seen as a future star for the Red Devils, he left the club in 2020 to seek more first-team opportunities elsewhere.

His journey took him to Portugal for a loan spell with Boavista, and eventually to Lille. Under manager Paulo Fonseca, Gomes gradually found his rhythm and became a key figure in the midfield. His impressive performances even earned him a senior England call-up in September.

Unfortunately, injuries hampered the second half of his season, and once it became clear he wouldn’t renew his contract, he was mostly used as a substitute.

In his farewell message, Gomes wrote:“After four unforgettable years at LOSC Lille, it’s time for me to say goodbye. This club has been more than just a team—it’s been family, a home, and a place that’s shaped me on and off the pitch.”

He continued:“There were highs and lows, but I’m truly thankful to my teammates and fans who stood by me through everything. I gave everything I had for the badge and for you. Lille will always hold a special place in my heart.”

As for his next move? That’s still up in the air. A return to Manchester United has been rumored, while Tottenham have been long-time admirers. Newcastle and West Ham are also said to be monitoring his situation.

While a move back to the Premier League seems likely, Gomes has previously said that living and playing abroad helped him grow in many ways. Earlier this season, he reflected:

“Playing in the Premier League would be amazing, but it’s not the end-all, be-all. Moving abroad helped me improve on and off the field.”

That said, when asked about possibly rejoining Manchester United, Gomes didn’t hold back:

“There’ll always be that soft spot for United. So yeah, it’d be hard to say no.”

Wherever he ends up, one thing’s for sure—Angel Gomes will be one of the hottest free agents to watch this summer.

Ruben Amorim Almost Quit Manchester United? Inside the Toughest Season in Red Devils' History

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Ruben Amorim Almost Quit Manchester United? Inside the Toughest Season in Red Devils' History

Ruben Amorim Almost Quit Manchester United? Inside the Toughest Season in Red Devils' History.

Manchester United is once again making headlines — but unfortunately, not for the right reasons. Instead of celebrating success, fans are dealing with one of the club’s worst seasons ever. And here’s the shocker: Head coach Ruben Amorim reportedly almost walked away from it all.

Yep, you read that right. According to a report from ESPN, Amorim seriously considered resigning back in mid-January. At that point, United had only one win from eight games, and a crushing 3-1 home defeat to Brighton seemed to break his spirit.

Things were so bad that Amorim publicly called his squad "maybe the worst team in Manchester United’s history." It was a brutal but honest take that showed just how deep the problems ran at Old Trafford.

He Nearly Walked Away, But the Club Held Him Back

Although no official resignation ever took place, Amorim was reportedly on the edge. What stopped him? According to the report, close associates and even top executives like CEO Omar Berrada stepped in to convince him to stay and keep fighting.

That faith might just pay off. Despite a dismal Premier League campaign, United somehow clawed their way into the Europa League final, where they’ll take on Tottenham Hotspur. A European trophy seemed like a far-fetched dream just a few months ago, but now it’s within reach.

It’s Not Just About Him — Amorim Questions the Club’s Direction

Amorim’s concerns weren’t only about his own position. The Portuguese coach is also said to have serious doubts about the club’s ability to rebuild its squad in the upcoming transfer window.

Sure, there are already reports of United lining up two new forwards. But Amorim isn’t convinced that new signings alone can fix the deep-rooted issues.

“There are some things we can’t change in the summer,” he recently said. “The feeling inside the club, the way we see ourselves — that needs to change too. It’s deeper than just transfers.”

Now He's Embracing the Challenge — But His Job Still Isn’t Safe

Fast forward a few months, and Amorim seems to have grown into the role. The 40-year-old is reportedly embracing the massive challenge and even “loves” what he’s doing — a big shift from when he was ready to quit.

Still, nothing is guaranteed. If United finish in the bottom five of the Premier League and lose the Europa League final, club leadership may decide it's time for a fresh start, no matter how much Amorim has adapted.

There’s Still Hope, But Time Is Ticking

This season might go down as one of the darkest in Manchester United history. But there’s still a light at the end of the tunnel — and that light is the Europa League final.

Ruben Amorim almost gave up. But he stayed, pushed through the crisis, and now has a shot at European glory. The big question is: will that be enough to save his job and restore United’s pride?

Crystal Palace vs Wolves: Match Preview, Kick-Off Time, Predicted Lineups, and Score Prediction

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Crystal Palace vs Wolves: Match Preview, Kick-Off Time, Predicted Lineups, and Score Prediction

Crystal Palace vs Wolves: Match Preview, Kick-Off Time, Predicted Lineups, and Score Prediction.

Crystal Palace are back in Premier League action on Tuesday night (WIB), just days after celebrating a historic FA Cup victory. They’ll welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers to Selhurst Park in what promises to be an intriguing clash between two sides looking to end the season on a high.

Fresh Off a Trophy Win: Can Palace Keep the Momentum?

Oliver Glasner made history over the weekend by guiding Crystal Palace to their first major trophy, edging out Manchester City 1–0 at Wembley thanks to a brilliant goal from Eberechi Eze. That victory sparked wild celebrations, and fans are still riding high.

But with that kind of emotional high, there’s always the risk of a post-final dip—especially with a quick turnaround before facing Wolves.

Wolves Look to Bounce Back

While Wolves are sitting in 14th place, they’ve shown solid form under Joao Pereira, who took over in December. Even though they’ve suffered back-to-back losses recently, they’ve been one of the better-performing teams in 2025.

Palace are currently eight points ahead of Wolves, sitting comfortably in mid-table. After breaking their draw streak by beating Tottenham 2–0, Glasner’s team seems poised to secure another top-12 finish.

Match Details: Crystal Palace vs. Wolves (WIB Time)

• Date: Tuesday, May 21, 2025 (WIB)

• Kick-off Time: 02.00 WIB

• Venue: Selhurst Park, London

• Referee: David Webb

• VAR: Chris Kavanagh

Head-to-Head: Who’s Had the Edge?

• Last 5 Meetings:

  • Palace wins: 3

  • Wolves wins: 1

  • Draws: 1

• Most Recent Match: Wolves 2–2 Crystal Palace (November 2, 2024)

Recent Form (All Competitions)

Crystal Palace:

• W vs. Man City (1–0) – 17 May

• W vs. Tottenham (2–0) – 11 May

• D vs. Nottingham Forest (1–1) – 5 May

• W vs. Aston Villa (3–0) – 26 Apr

• D vs. Arsenal (2–2) – 23 Apr

Wolves:

• L vs. Brighton (0–2) – 10 May

• L vs. Man City (0–1) – 2 May

• W vs. Leicester (3–0) – 26 Apr

• W vs. Man Utd (1–0) – 20 Apr

• W vs. Tottenham (4–2) – 13 Apr

Where to Watch Crystal Palace vs Wolves

• United States: Peacock

• Canada: fuboTV Canada, Fubo Sports Network 2 Canada

• Mexico: Tubi Mexico

• United Kingdom: Not televised – commentary via BBC Radio 5 Live

Crystal Palace Team News

After a hard-fought final, Glasner is expected to rotate his squad. Eze and Mateta could be rested, opening the door for players like Eddie Nketiah and Romain Esse to start.

Marc Guéhi and Adam Wharton are doubtful, so Daichi Kamada might pair up with Will Hughes in midfield. Cheick Doucoure and Chadi Riad are still unavailable due to injury.

Predicted Palace Lineup (3-4-2-1):
Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Lerma; Muñoz, Hughes, Kamada, Mitchell; Esse, Sarr; Nketiah

Wolves Team News

Wolves are still dealing with a few long-term injuries. Hwang Hee-Chan remains sidelined, along with Saša Kalajdžić, Yerson Mosquera, Leon Chiwome, and Enso Gonzalez. Backup goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is also out.

Expect Jørgen Strand Larsen to lead the line with support from Matheus Cunha and Marshall Munetsi.

Predicted Wolves Lineup (3-4-2-1):
Sa; Doherty, Agbadou, Toti; Semedo, Gomes, André, Aït-Nouri; Munetsi, Cunha; Strand Larsen

Final Score Prediction: Crystal Palace 0–1 Wolves

Palace might still be celebrating their FA Cup triumph, and with a rotated squad, they could lack sharpness. Wolves, meanwhile, come into this game fresher and with something to prove after two consecutive losses. Don’t be surprised if the visitors sneak a narrow win.

Man City vs Bournemouth: Match Preview, Predicted Lineups, and Score Prediction – Premier League Battle Heats Up

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Man City vs Bournemouth: Match Preview, Predicted Lineups, and Score Prediction – Premier League Battle Heats Up

Man City vs Bournemouth: Match Preview, Predicted Lineups, and Score Prediction – Premier League Battle Heats Up.

Hey soccer fans! Get ready for a big Premier League clash as Manchester City take on Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium tonight. This isn’t just another game—City are chasing a return to the top five and desperately need three points to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to follow!

When and Where Is Man City vs Bournemouth?

• Location: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England

• Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025

• Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM WIB (Western Indonesian Time)

• Referee: Thomas Bramall

• VAR: Paul Tierney

Recent Form and Head-to-Head Stats

Manchester City have had the upper hand in this matchup, winning 4 of the last 5 meetings. Bournemouth managed just one win and have never beaten City at the Etihad—a streak they’ll hope to break.

• Last Meeting: Bournemouth 1–2 Man City (FA Cup – March 30, 2025)

• Man City’s Recent Form: Mixed results but solid at home

• Bournemouth’s Recent Form: Up-and-down, currently 11th in the standings

Man City Team News

City are dealing with a few injury issues. Mateo Kovačić missed the FA Cup final due to a knock and might sit this one out too. If he does, Ilkay Gündoğan is expected to start in midfield. Rodri, John Stones, Nathan Aké, and Oscar Bobb remain unavailable, while young talent Claudio Echeverri could get more minutes after his debut.

Predicted Man City Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Ederson; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Gündoğan, Silva; Savinho, De Bruyne, Marmoush; Haaland

Bournemouth Team News

Bad news for Bournemouth—Alex Scott is out for the season after suffering a broken jaw. He joins Ryan Christie and Enes Ünal on the injury list. Winger Dango Ouattara and Luis Sinisterra are also expected to miss the game. Lewis Cook and Tyler Adams will likely hold down the midfield, while Justin Kluivert will step into a more attacking role.

Predicted Bournemouth Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Kepa; Smith, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Cook, Adams; Semenyo, Kluivert, Tavernier; Evanilson

Score Prediction: Can Bournemouth Pull Off an Upset?

Pep Guardiola has challenged his squad to bounce back after Saturday’s FA Cup loss. City had their chances but couldn’t get past former Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson. Now, they need a strong response at home.

Bournemouth, on the other hand, still have a shot at European competition—but they need everything to go their way. They’ll be motivated, but beating Man City at the Etihad is a massive challenge.

Our prediction? Man City 3 – 1 Bournemouth

How to Watch Man City vs Bournemouth Live

Here’s how you can catch the action from wherever you are:

• United States: fuboTV, NBC Sports, USA Network

• United Kingdom: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Go, NOW

• Canada: fuboTV Canada

• Mexico: TNT Sports, Max Mexico

This is a high-stakes match for both sides. Manchester City can leap back into the top three with a win, while Bournemouth are trying to end their Etihad curse and stay in the European race. Expect intensity, energy, and some quality football.

Who’s your pick to win? Can Haaland lead City to another big win, or will Bournemouth pull off a surprise?

Messi vs. Ronaldo: Legendary Rivalry That Shaped the Modern Era of Soccer

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Messi vs. Ronaldo: Legendary Rivalry That Shaped the Modern Era of Soccer

Messi vs. Ronaldo: Legendary Rivalry That Shaped the Modern Era of Soccer.

When you think about the greatest rivalry in soccer history, one name-duo instantly comes to mind—Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. For more than 15 years, these two global icons pushed each other to new heights, creating unforgettable moments and rewriting the record books along the way.

In a recent interview, Messi admitted that their rivalry actually motivated them both to stay on top of their game. “It was always a great battle,” he told France Football. “I think we fed off each other. We’re both fierce competitors. He always wanted to win everything, just like me.”

Their legendary rivalry was made even more intense by their time at Barcelona and Real Madrid, two of the biggest clubs in the world. Every El Clásico wasn’t just a match—it was a showdown between two of the greatest players of all time. From 2008 to 2023, they shared 13 Ballon d'Or titles between them.

Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed his first Ballon d’Or in 2007, and Messi followed with his first in 2009. Messi has since collected eight in total—three more than Ronaldo—which is the most by any player in history. His most recent win in 2023, fueled by Argentina’s World Cup victory, might have marked the final chapter of this golden era.

Now, Messi plays in the U.S. with Inter Miami, and Ronaldo is over in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr. With both legends stepping away from European competitions, it’s likely that the next generation will take over the race for individual honors like the Ballon d’Or.

Reflecting on their dominance, Messi said, “It was a golden era—for us and for the fans. People say it’s easy to reach the top, but staying there is the real challenge. We stayed at the top for 10, 15 years… it was amazing and it’s something everyone will remember.”

So, who’s next in line to carry the torch of this legendary rivalry? Maybe Erling Haaland vs. Kylian Mbappé, or perhaps Mbappé vs. Lamine Yamal, especially as Barcelona and Real Madrid gear up for a new era. Whoever steps into their shoes will have big expectations to meet.

Messi and Ronaldo weren’t just great players—they defined an era. And even as they move on to new stages in their careers, their influence on the sport and future generations is something that will never fade.

David Beckham and Gary Neville Reveal Manchester United’s Summer Transfer Wishlist: "At Least Six New Signings Needed!"

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

David Beckham and Gary Neville Reveal Manchester United’s Summer Transfer Wishlist: "At Least Six New Signings Needed!"

David Beckham and Gary Neville Reveal Manchester United’s Summer Transfer Wishlist: "At Least Six New Signings Needed!"

Manchester United legends David Beckham and Gary Neville have shared their honest thoughts on what their beloved club should do in the upcoming summer transfer window. The two former Red Devils didn’t hold back when talking about the kind of rebuild they believe is urgently needed at Old Trafford.

Beckham and Neville came up through United’s youth academy together and became key figures in the early Premier League era. Beckham won six league titles before heading to Real Madrid in 2003, while Neville spent his entire 19-year career with United, collecting just about every trophy possible.

These days, Neville is known for his strong opinions as a pundit on Sky Sports and NBC. Beckham, now co-owner of MLS side Inter Miami, tends to be more reserved—but he opened up in a recent interview with The Athletic, and fans are taking notice.

Beckham expressed strong support for manager Ruben Amorim, who’s reportedly facing pressure. He urged the club to fully back Amorim in the transfer market. “I think Ruben definitely needs support to bring in the players he wants, but I’m not sure how realistic that is,” Beckham said.

He also emphasized the importance of keeping core players, especially team captain Bruno Fernandes. Amid rumors of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, Beckham didn’t hold back. “I’d like to think you don’t have to sell your captain. Bruno has been outstanding. Sure, we’ve all been critical of certain players at times, but he’s stepped up when it matters.”

Another major concern for Beckham is the potential sale of homegrown talent like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho. These academy graduates could be seen as “pure profit” under Premier League financial regulations, but Beckham believes selling them would be a huge mistake.

“If you’re not performing on the field, we all know there’s a risk—whether you’re a star or not. That’s how football works,” he said. “But Manchester United shouldn’t sell players who understand and love the club, especially if they grew up here.”

Gary Neville echoed Beckham’s sentiments and threw his support behind Amorim, urging fans to hold off judgment until the middle of next season. “By Christmas next year, we’ll have a better idea of where things stand. Ruben needs at least one more transfer window,” Neville said.

He didn’t sugarcoat the situation either. “This summer needs to be a major reset. United need at least five or six new players to reshape the squad. Two forwards, a central midfielder, two wing-backs, and another center-back—those are the minimum.”

In short, both Beckham and Neville believe a serious squad overhaul is overdue, and that any rebuild must prioritize both smart signings and loyalty to young players who truly represent the club’s identity.

Brighton vs Liverpool 3-2: Hinshelwood’s Late Goal Completes Epic Comeback Win

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Brighton vs Liverpool 3-2: Hinshelwood’s Late Goal Completes Epic Comeback Win

Brighton vs Liverpool 3-2: Hinshelwood’s Late Goal Completes Epic Comeback Win.

What a match! Brighton pulled off a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Liverpool, thanks to a late goal from Jack Hinshelwood—who scored just 88 seconds after coming off the bench!

The Seagulls showed real fighting spirit at home, coming from behind twice before Hinshelwood sealed the win. His goal was confirmed after a quick VAR check ruled that Matt O'Riley, who provided the assist, was not offside.

Earlier in the game, Kaoru Mitoma also made a big impact off the bench, scoring the equalizer in the 69th minute. Liverpool had taken an early lead through Harvey Elliott in the 9th minute, but Brighton responded with goals from Yasin Ayari and Dominik Szoboszlai, who netted with a clever cross-shot right before halftime.

One of the turning points? Mohamed Salah had a golden opportunity early in the second half to extend Liverpool’s lead, but he missed a wide-open goal—a moment fans will surely remember, especially since it was his 400th appearance for Liverpool and his 300th Premier League game.

With this win, Brighton now sits eighth in the Premier League table. A draw in their final match against Tottenham might be enough to secure European football next season, depending on other results.

Stat Check: Comeback Kings of the Premier League?

Brighton are proving to be masters of the comeback this season. This marks the third time they’ve won a Premier League game after trailing at halftime. Only Fulham has done it more often (five times).

On the flip side, Liverpool just made some unwanted history. They became the first Premier League champions to go winless in the three matches immediately after clinching the title (two draws, one loss).

Still, Liverpool’s attack remains consistent. With Elliott’s goal, the Reds have now scored in all 19 of their away games this season—joining Arsenal and Manchester United (from the 2001-02 season) as the only clubs to do so in Premier League history.

When it comes to the numbers, Brighton deserved the win. They generated 2.34 expected goals (xG) from 25 shots (12 on target), while Liverpool finished with 2.11 xG from 18 attempts. This was also Liverpool’s first league defeat in a game they were winning at halftime since December 2016.

When Will Dean Huijsen Make His Real Madrid Debut? Here’s What You Need to Know

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

When Will Dean Huijsen Make His Real Madrid Debut? Here’s What You Need to Know

When Will Dean Huijsen Make His Real Madrid Debut? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Now that Dean Huijsen is officially heading to Real Madrid, it’s just a matter of time before the 20-year-old defender makes his debut for Los Blancos.

Just two days after Barcelona secured the 2024–25 La Liga title, Real Madrid confirmed they signed Huijsen from Bournemouth. Despite interest from top Premier League clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea—thanks to his impressive rookie season with the Cherries—Huijsen decided to join the Spanish giants instead.

Real Madrid triggered his £50 million ($66.4 million) release clause and agreed on a five-year contract that keeps Huijsen in Madrid until 2030. This signing marks the first major move in Real Madrid’s post-Carlo Ancelotti era, with more signings expected soon as the club looks to rebuild a squad capable of winning trophies after falling short this season.

Even better, Huijsen might help bring a trophy back to Madrid within his first two months at the club!

When Can We Expect Dean Huijsen to Make His Real Madrid Debut?

Huijsen is most likely to make his first appearance for Real Madrid at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup. He’s set to join the team on June 1, just over two weeks before Madrid’s first match in the tournament against Al Hilal.

With key defenders like Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba expected to miss some or all of the competition due to injuries, Madrid will need Huijsen to strengthen their defense in the U.S. He could make his debut wearing the famous white jersey on June 18 against Al Hilal.

If the club decides to give him more time to settle in, Huijsen could instead make his debut against Pachuca on June 22, or later against RB Salzburg on June 26.

Either way, Huijsen is set to kick off his Real Madrid career before even playing a single La Liga match. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will be the perfect stage for the young center back to gain valuable experience before focusing on helping Real Madrid challenge Barcelona for the title.

Conte and Inzaghi Suspended Ahead of Serie A Title Showdowns — Napoli and Inter Without Coaches

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Conte and Inzaghi Suspended Ahead of Serie A Title Showdowns — Napoli and Inter Without Coaches

Conte and Inzaghi Suspended Ahead of Serie A Title Showdowns — Napoli and Inter Without Coaches.

The Serie A title race is heating up, but both Napoli and Inter Milan will be without their head coaches for crucial matches this Friday.

Drama and Tension Mark the Penultimate Weekend

Last Sunday’s games were full of drama and high emotions. Inter Milan was close to beating Lazio—a win that would have put them at the top of the table, especially since Napoli only managed a draw against Parma.

However, late in the match, the referee checked VAR for a possible penalty on Lazio after a handball by Yann Bisseck. During this moment, Inter’s coach Simone Inzaghi and Lazio’s coach Marco Baroni got into a heated argument on the sidelines, resulting in both being shown red cards. The penalty was awarded and successfully converted by Pedro in the 90th minute, ending the game in a 2-2 draw.

Meanwhile, Napoli couldn’t find a way past struggling Parma. In the final moments of the goalless draw, Napoli’s Antonio Conte and Parma’s Cristian Chivu exchanged heated words and were both sent off as well.

Key Matches Without Their Coaches

This means that for Friday’s big matches, Napoli hosting Cagliari and Inter facing Como, neither Conte nor Inzaghi will be on the bench. Napoli currently leads the table by one point, so a win would secure the Scudetto for them.

But if Napoli loses and Inter manages at least a draw, then the Serie A title will be decided in a playoff match scheduled for Monday.

AC Milan Coach Also Suspended

It’s not just Napoli and Inter feeling the heat. AC Milan’s coach Sergio Conceicao was also sent off during stoppage time of their 3-1 loss to Roma. He’ll miss the final game against Monza.

Given Milan’s recent failures to qualify for European competitions and their loss in the Coppa Italia final, this might have been Conceicao’s last game in charge.

The Serie A title race this season is as intense off the pitch as it is on it, with both Conte and Inzaghi missing critical games due to suspensions. Napoli holds the advantage but nothing is guaranteed yet. Football fans should be ready for an exciting finish, possibly culminating in a title-deciding playoff!

Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony Date and Location Announced — Here’s What You Need to Know!

Robert Starling    Tuesday, May 20, 2025    Comment   

Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony Date and Location Announced — Here’s What You Need to Know!

Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony Date and Location Announced — Here’s What You Need to Know!

Hey soccer fans! Exciting news about the Ballon d’Or 2025, the most prestigious individual award in football. France Football has just revealed the date and venue for this year’s big event.

The 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on Monday, September 22nd. That’s actually a full month earlier than last year, so we get to find out the winner sooner!

The list of nominees will also be announced earlier—sometime in the first half of August. Talk about building the suspense!

Top stars like Ousmane Dembélé, Raphinha, Kylian Mbappé, and Mohamed Salah are expected to headline the shortlist. Plus, the outcome of the Champions League final will probably have a big impact on who takes home the award.

Voting is done by journalists from the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries (top 50 for the women’s award), making it a truly global honor.

Last year’s winners were Rodri for the men’s award and Aitana Bonmatí for the women’s. But Rodri’s win caused some controversy. The results leaked before the ceremony started, and many thought Vinícius Júnior deserved the trophy more. In fact, Vinícius and some Real Madrid teammates skipped the ceremony, hinting they already knew the outcome.

This year, Vinícius isn’t a favorite due to Real Madrid’s struggles, and Rodri likely won’t win since he spent most of the season recovering from an ACL injury. That means for only the fourth time in 17 years, someone other than Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi will join the list of Ballon d’Or winners — a group that includes Luka Modrić, Karim Benzema, and Rodri.

So, who do you think will take home football’s biggest prize in 2025? Stay tuned!