Real Madrid’s Mbappe loses Chinese deals after controversial Mao Zedong remarks
Kylian Mbappé is facing a growing commercial backlash in China after at least three major companies ended their partnerships with the French football star over comments that appeared to describe former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a dictator. Beverage manufacturer Dongpeng, dairy giant Mengniu and cheese producer Milkground announced on Tuesday that they were terminating […]
Arsenal’s Saka shares powerful story after winning 2026 Socrates Award
Bukayo Saka used his moment in the spotlight to tell a story that went far beyond football after winning the 2026 Sócrates Award, highlighting the life-changing work of charity Big Shoe and its impact on children in need. The Arsenal winger delivered an emotional speech in which he shared the experience of Biringiro, a 14-year-old […]
Tuchel hails England star Kane after historic Ballon d’Or triumph
England manager Thomas Tuchel has paid tribute to Harry Kane following the striker’s Ballon d’Or triumph, describing the award as deserved recognition for his outstanding performances and leadership. Tuchel congratulated the England captain on securing football’s prestigious individual honour, highlighting the significance of Kane becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to win the award. […]
Van Dijk issues Mohamed Salah warning as Liverpool’s new stars step up
Virgil van Dijk has admitted Liverpool face a major challenge replacing Mohamed Salah’s influence, insisting the Egyptian’s extraordinary contribution over several seasons will be difficult for any winger to match. The Liverpool captain also paid tribute to former Anfield favourites Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, while challenging the club’s current players to step forward and […]
Rice leads Arsenal stars as Ballon d’Or rankings spring surprises
Declan Rice emerged as Arsenal’s highest-ranked player in the 2026 Ballon d’Or standings, but the midfielder’s 15th-place finish meant none of the Gunners’ Premier League-winning squad secured a spot in the top 10. The latest rankings placed Rice ahead of several high-profile names, while Arsenal’s defensive stars Gabriel and William Saliba also made the list. […]
Rose warns Aston Villa as Bournemouth prepare for Carabao Cup battle
Marco Rose believes Bournemouth are well placed to continue their impressive run as they prepare to host Aston Villa in Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup fourth-round clash. The Cherries head into the encounter at the Vitality Stadium with momentum firmly on their side after recording consecutive 3-0 victories against AC Milan and Manchester United. However, Rose […]
Alonso backs Mike Penders after Chelsea error ahead of Liverpool clash
Xabi Alonso has thrown his support behind Mike Penders after the Chelsea goalkeeper endured a difficult Premier League debut against Tottenham Hotspur, confirming the 21-year-old will retain his place for the Carabao Cup clash with Liverpool. Penders endured a mixed afternoon during Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat to Tottenham at Stamford Bridge. The Belgian produced important first-half […]
Spalletti challenges Juventus to rediscover first-half courage after Lecce win
Luciano Spalletti has challenged Juventus to maintain their attacking ambition throughout matches after his side secured a 2-0 away victory against Lecce on Serie A Matchday 8. Despite collecting all three points, the Juventus head coach was not entirely satisfied with how his players managed the contest, particularly after the break, when he felt they […]
Flick admits Barcelona lacked energy in El Clasico defeat
Hansi Flick has admitted Barcelona lacked the energy to compete at their best after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in El Clásico, bringing their nine-match winning run in LaLiga to an end. The Barcelona manager acknowledged that his team fell short in a contest decided by crucial moments, with Real Madrid taking advantage […]
Mourinho hails Real Madrid after El Clasico win over Barcelona
Jose Mourinho hailed Real Madrid’s performance after their victory over Barcelona in El Clásico, describing the result as deserved while praising his players for their organisation, courage and composure under pressure. The Real Madrid coach was delighted with the team’s display at Camp Nou, insisting his players delivered a high-level performance against a strong Barcelona […]
