FC Sochi 2018 II Overview

With the World Cup over and pre-season friendlies beginning in earnest over the next week, it feels like the new club season is hurtling towards us at a rather alarming rate. With that in mind, managers are getting increasingly twitchy when it comes to transfers, with coaches around Europe keen to know which players they will and won't be able to call upon over the coming weeks and months.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri is set to undergo surgery on a back injury, casting significant doubt over his availability for the start of the 2026-27 campaign. The Spain captain returned from international duty after leading his country to World Cup glory, but the Premier League giants now face an extended period without their key anchor.

Real Madrid moved towards the Spain star as soon as the World Cup ended.

Mario Balotelli insists he has absolutely no regrets about his turbulent football career. The controversial Italian striker admits to making numerous mistakes during his younger days, but maintains a clear conscience, declaring that he has never intentionally caused harm to anyone while experiencing the inevitable highs and lows of professional football.