France head coach Zinedine Zidane has announced his 23-man squad for crucial UEFA Nations League group matches against Italy and Turkey. Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe leads a high-profile return to the side, while Paris FC striker Pablo Pagis earns a maiden senior call-up following an injury to Maghnes Akliouche.
Conor Coady has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33, bringing the curtain down on a 15-year career. The former England defender, who made 317 appearances for Wolves, shared the news on Friday morning, a day after being confirmed as co-host of a new podcast and YouTube show. He has also been coaching at boyhood club Liverpool.
Mikel Arteta has offered his thoughts on the latest England squad announcement, which sees a significant Arsenal presence in Thomas Tuchel’s plans. The Gunners boss reflected on the high-profile return of Ben White and the continued rise of several young stars at the Emirates Stadium.
Unai Emery has confirmed talks over a new Aston Villa contract after a "very positive" meeting with chairman Nassef Sawiris, with more discussions planned for next week. The Spaniard has been linked with Manchester United, who Villa face on Sunday after Tuesday's 3-0 Champions League defeat to Barcelona, but says his ambition is to keep growing a "stronger" project at Villa Park.
Xabi Alonso has refused to dwell on Cole Palmer's omission from the England squad, insisting his conversations with the 24-year-old are only about Chelsea. The Blues boss also joked about goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's protective mask and revealed that midfielder Moises Caicedo has "little problems" ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Sunderland.
Andoni Iraola has admitted Liverpool are "sometimes too honest" after a striking statistic showed no Premier League side have conceded more fouls this season. The Reds head to Crystal Palace on Sunday on the back of two straight defeats to Arsenal and Fenerbahce, and their manager wants a response, with Ryan Gravenberch still a doubt because of a heel problem.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has called on his players to use their midweek European heroics as a springboard for domestic consistency. Speaking ahead of a high-stakes encounter with Aston Villa, the Red Devils boss also took time to reflect on the immense influence of Sir Alex Ferguson as the club marks a major milestone for the legendary Scotsman.
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