Landon Donovan Opens Up About Losing LA Galaxy Captaincy to David Beckham

Robert Starling    Thursday, May 29, 2025    Comment   

Landon Donovan Opens Up About Losing LA Galaxy Captaincy to David Beckham

Landon Donovan Opens Up About Losing LA Galaxy Captaincy to David Beckham.

Landon Donovan, former LA Galaxy star, recently shared his thoughts about the time he lost the team’s captaincy to David Beckham. Beckham joined LA Galaxy late in the 2007 season after leaving Real Madrid, and this story came up again after Beckham said it was one of his biggest regrets.

On CBS Sports’ show Beckham & Friends Live, Beckham explained that at first, he refused the club owner Philip Anschutz’s request to take the captain’s armband from Donovan. But after hearing that Donovan was okay with it, Beckham changed his mind and accepted the role.

“After about a week, they told me Landon was fine with it,” Beckham said. “When I asked Landon, he said, ‘Yeah, no problem.’ So they gave me the captain’s armband. Honestly, it’s my one regret—I should never have taken it from Landon.”

Donovan responded to Beckham’s comments in an interview with Sports Illustrated. He admitted that he did not agree with the decision at first.

“I told our coach, general manager, and owner that I didn’t agree with it,” Donovan said. “But in the end, I wanted to win, and if giving the captaincy to David was best for the team, then that was okay.”

Donovan also thanked Beckham for being honest about the situation.

“It gave David confidence when he joined, and it helped him gain respect from the team right away,” Donovan said. “Although it wasn’t easy for me at first, it turned out to be the right choice. We were able to succeed and win together.”

Beckham was LA Galaxy’s captain through the 2008 season. Donovan regained the captain’s armband from 2009 to 2011. Together, they helped the team win two MLS Cup titles in 2011 and 2012.

Both Beckham and Donovan have statues outside LA Galaxy’s stadium, and they are honored members of the club’s Ring of Honor.

Donovan is LA Galaxy’s all-time top scorer, with 145 regular-season goals and 136 assists. He also holds the record for most playoff goals in MLS history (25). In 2015, the league named its MVP award after him as a tribute to his impact on the sport.

Today, Beckham is the president and co-owner of Inter Miami CF, which will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer. Meanwhile, Donovan recently served as interim head coach of San Diego Wave FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) during 2024.

Inter Miami Beat CF Montréal 4–2: Messi and Suárez Shine Amid Injury Crisis

Robert Starling    Thursday, May 29, 2025    Comment   

Inter Miami Beat CF Montréal 4–2: Messi and Suárez Shine Amid Injury Crisis

Inter Miami Beat CF Montréal 4–2: Messi and Suárez Shine Amid Injury Crisis.

Inter Miami secured a thrilling 4–2 win over CF Montréal in a dramatic night filled with defensive injuries. Despite missing key players, the Herons relied on their superstar duo—Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez—to get the job done and take home all three points.

Early Injury Woes, But Miami Stays Focused

The night started off rough for Inter Miami. Just 12 minutes into the match, Gonzalo Luján was forced off due to injury, with Tomás Avilés stepping in. Then, before fans could even settle back into the game, Jordi Alba also went down and had to be replaced by David Martínez in the 23rd minute.

That’s two defenders out within half an hour—far from ideal for coach Javier Mascherano, especially when facing a team that’s currently bottom of the Eastern Conference.

Messi Breaks the Deadlock

Thankfully, Miami has Lionel Messi. In the 27th minute, after Sergio Busquets won the ball from Nathan Saliba, he set up Messi who fired a low shot into the far corner. The breakthrough gave Miami a much-needed lead.

However, just before halftime, more trouble struck when Avilés appeared to be limping. Though he stayed on until the break, Mascherano subbed him out at the start of the second half, bringing on Maxi Falcón.

Second Half: Suárez Takes Over

Early in the second half, CF Montréal almost equalized, but goalkeeper Óscar Ustari pulled off a brilliant double save to deny them.

That turned out to be a huge moment. A few minutes later, Messi assisted Suárez for a beautiful finish to make it 2–0. And just like that, Suárez struck again shortly after with another goal, putting the game seemingly out of reach at 3–0.

Montréal Responds, But Messi Answers Back

Dante Sealy pulled one back for Montréal, keeping the match alive. But Messi responded quickly with his second goal of the game, making it 4–1. Yet again, Miami’s defense switched off, and Victor Loturi scored Montréal’s second goal not long after.

Defensive Concerns Still Loom

Even though Miami got the win, their defense remains a major concern. Conceding twice after leading 3–0—especially against the team at the bottom of the table—shows that Mascherano still has a lot to fix in the back line.

Player Ratings: Inter Miami vs CF Montréal (4-4-2)

Source: FotMob

🔴 Inter Miami:

• GK: Óscar Ustari – 6.2

• RB: Ian Fray – 6.9

• CB: Gonzalo Luján – 6.4

• CB: Noah Allen – 6.2

• LB: Jordi Alba – 6.4

• RM: Tadeo Allende – 7.0

• CM: Federico Redondo – 6.8

• CM: Sergio Busquets – 7.9

• LM: Telasco Segovia – 7.0

• ST: Luis Suárez – 9.4

• ST: Lionel Messi – 9.2

Substitutes:

• Tomás Avilés – 6.1

• David Martínez – 6.5

• Maxi Falcón – 6.1

• Fafa Picault – 5.9

• Benjamin Cremaschi – 6.1

🔵 CF Montréal:

• GK: Jonathan Sirois – 3.8

• RB: Joel Waterman – 6.2

• CB: George Campbell – 5.1

• CB: Jalen Neal – 6.5

• LB: Luca Petrasso – 5.4

• RM: Dante Sealy – 7.9

• CM: Victor Loturi – 8.2

• CM: Nathan Saliba – 6.4

• LM: Tom Pearce – 6.6

• ST: Giacomo Vrioni – 6.3

• ST: Prince Osei Owusu – 6.6

Substitutes:

• Caden Clark – 7.2

• Samuel Piette – 6.8

• Jules-Anthony Vilsaint – 6.1

• Aleksandr Guboglo – 6.4

• Fernando Álvarez – 7.0

⭐ Man of the Match: Lionel Messi (9.2/10)

Inter Miami’s attack is firing on all cylinders, but the defensive fragility is still glaring. Mascherano will need to regroup quickly before facing tougher opponents. For now, fans can enjoy another magic show from Messi and Suárez—but the back line has to improve if they want to keep winning.

Chelsea Win Conference League: Maresca Urges Team to Use Trophy as New Beginning

Robert Starling    Thursday, May 29, 2025    Comment   

Chelsea Win Conference League: Maresca Urges Team to Use Trophy as New Beginning

Chelsea Win Conference League: Maresca Urges Team to Use Trophy as New Beginning.

Chelsea made history by winning the UEFA Conference League after a thrilling 4-1 comeback against Real Betis. But for manager Enzo Maresca, this victory is just the beginning of something bigger.

Maresca: “This Is Just the Start, Not the Peak”

The final took place in Wroclaw, Poland, where Chelsea found themselves behind at halftime thanks to a goal from Abde Ezzalzouli. However, the Blues turned things around in the second half, led by a standout performance from Cole Palmer. He assisted both Enzo Fernandez and Nicolas Jackson in quick succession before Jadon Sancho and Moises Caicedo sealed the win with two late goals.

Speaking after the match to TNT Sports, Maresca emphasized the importance of using this moment as a stepping stone.

“I’m very proud, especially for the fans who have waited two or three years for a moment like this,” Maresca said. “But I hope this can be a starting point for something even more meaningful.”

Historic Feat for Chelsea in Europe

With this win, Chelsea became the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions: the Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, and the now-defunct Cup Winners' Cup. They also became the first team since Real Madrid in 2014 to have four different goal scorers in a European final.

This victory also ended a stunning run of 27 consecutive wins by Spanish clubs in major finals, including World Cup, Euro, Champions League, and Europa League matches.

Short Rest, Slow Start – But Strong Finish

Chelsea had only two days to recover after securing Champions League qualification by beating Nottingham Forest. Maresca admitted the team struggled early in the game.

“We were still riding the high from Sunday’s win,” he explained. “We waited all season for that, so naturally there was a bit of a drop in energy. But in the second half, the team responded very well.”

Maresca revealed that his message to the squad was clear: “What’s done is done. The final is now. Focus.”

Captain Reece James Benched — Then Changed the Game

One surprise was the decision to bench team captain Reece James. But his halftime substitution helped turn the match around.

“Honestly, I would always start Reece if I could,” Maresca said. “But we’re trying to protect him physically. He’s one of our top players, like Cole Palmer.”

Looking Ahead: More Than Just One Trophy

Maresca joined elite company by becoming the first manager to win a major European trophy in his debut season with an English club—matching what Thomas Tuchel did with Chelsea in 2021. But Maresca has bigger ambitions.

This Conference League win is a moment of celebration for Chelsea fans. Still, Maresca wants the team to stay hungry and build on this success.

Winning a trophy is great—but now, Chelsea is aiming even higher.

Chelsea’s Epic Comeback! Crush Real Betis 4-1 to Make UEFA History in Conference League Final

Robert Starling    Thursday, May 29, 2025    Comment   

Chelsea’s Epic Comeback! Crush Real Betis 4-1 to Make UEFA History in Conference League Final

Chelsea’s Epic Comeback! Crush Real Betis 4-1 to Make UEFA History in Conference League Final.

What a night for Chelsea! The Blues pulled off an unforgettable comeback to beat Real Betis 4-1 in the UEFA Conference League final on Wednesday night in Wroclaw, Poland.

It wasn’t easy—they were 1-0 down at halftime—but an inspired second-half performance turned things around, giving Chelsea not just the trophy but also a historic milestone in European football.

Cole Palmer Leads the Charge with a Second-Half Masterclass

The game started rough for Chelsea. Real Betis came out swinging and took the lead in the 9th minute through Abde Ezzalzouli, assisted by the ever-creative Isco. Chelsea looked flat, struggling to create anything meaningful in the first 45 minutes.

But the second half? That’s where the magic happened.

Cole Palmer, quiet in the first half, suddenly took control. In the 65th minute, he delivered a perfect cross from the right wing that Enzo Fernandez headed into the bottom corner to equalize. Just five minutes later, Palmer set up another goal—this time for Nicolas Jackson—to make it 2-1.

Sancho and Caicedo Seal the Deal

After taking the lead, Chelsea didn’t stop pressing. Although Jackson missed a golden opportunity to score another, substitutes Jadon Sancho and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall stepped up. Dewsbury-Hall assisted Sancho for a stunning third goal, curled beautifully into the top corner.

Moises Caicedo added the finishing touch with a powerful shot to make it 4-1. Chelsea were simply unstoppable in the second half.

Chelsea Set New UEFA Record with Historic Win

This victory isn’t just another trophy—it’s historic. Chelsea are now the first club ever to win all four major UEFA competitions: the Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, and the now-retired Cup Winners’ Cup.

They’re also the first team to have four different goal scorers in a major European final (excluding own goals) since Real Madrid did it in 2014.

The Blues ended a nine-match losing streak for English clubs against Spanish teams in European finals. The last English win before this? Liverpool’s 5-4 thriller against Alaves in 2001.

For manager Enzo Maresca, it’s a dream debut season—qualifying for the Champions League and lifting a European trophy.

Real Betis’ Strong Start Fades in the Second Half

Real Betis started strong. Playing in their first major European final, they looked like they might continue Spain’s dominance in such matches—Spanish clubs had won 27 of their last 27 finals across UEFA competitions.

Isco was brilliant in the first half, creating Betis’ goal and causing all sorts of problems for Chelsea. But after halftime, Betis started to sit deeper, lost control, and couldn’t deal with Chelsea’s intensity and Palmer’s precision.

While the loss is painful, Betis will still compete in next season’s Europa League after finishing sixth in La Liga. And for coach Manuel Pellegrini, who became the second Chilean to lead a team in a European final, it was a campaign to be proud of.

Chelsea’s Future Looks Bright with Palmer Leading the Way

This win wraps up what has turned into an impressive season for Chelsea. Despite facing criticism throughout the year, they’ve earned a Champions League spot and now added European silverware to the cabinet.

And leading the charge was Cole Palmer—two assists, complete control of the second half, and the spark that lit Chelsea’s comeback.

It’s a sign of big things to come for the Blues. Wroclaw might just be remembered as the place where Chelsea’s new era began.

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    Thursday, May 22, 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.