Playoff Overview

Eight-week shock

Andy Robertson has lifted the lid on the unique pressures faced by Trent Alexander-Arnold during their time together at Anfield, suggesting his former teammate suffered due to his nationality. The Scotsman, who now plies his trade for Tottenham, believes the English media and fanbase held the Real Madrid right-back to a different standard.

Kylian Mbappe has been told he should “never talk about the Ballon d’Or”, with fellow World Cup winner Frank Leboeuf telling GOAL why the Real Madrid ‘Galactico’ is coming across as selfish when compared to in-form Barcelona star Raphinha. Mbappe has been talking up his claims to the most prestigious of Golden Balls, but is expected to miss out again in 2026.

A serious injury and weeks out