Amazonense playoff Overview

With the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo duopoly presumably disappearing into the rearview mirror, the battle for the Ballon d'Or hasn't felt so open for the best part of 20 years, with countless players now beginning each campaign believing they have a chance of claiming the most prestigious individual prize football has to offer. Ousmane Dembele emerged from a career plagued by injuries and inconsistencies to win the Golden Ball in 2025, and he is among a crowded field of contenders again in 2026.

Como president Mirwan Suwarso has outlined an audacious vision for the Serie A side, aiming to transform them into a major sports tourism destination. As the club prepare for a historic Champions League campaign, Suwarso is holding firm on player valuations and taking a highly rebellious stance against UEFA's financial rules, inviting fines to achieve his lofty goals.

Roma have rapidly accelerated their summer transfer plans with a highly ambitious swoop for Real Madrid forward Endrick. The Italian club are actively looking to build a formidable new-look attack for Gian Piero Gasperini, hoping to partner the Brazilian youngster with Premier League wingers Crysencio Summerville and Alejandro Garnacho this season.

Luka Modric is reportedly ready to extend his stay at San Siro by committing to a new one-year contract with AC Milan. The veteran midfielder has rapidly weighed up his options following Croatia’s disappointing early departure from the 2026 World Cup just a few days ago.