Ask many die-hard Arsenal fans for their take on who is the best midfielder in the world, and the response will be almost universally the same: Declan Rice. There have even been calls for the Englishman to win the Ballon d'Or after propelling the Gunners to a first league title in 22 years, as well as the Champions League final. The rest of the world, though, remains less convinced.

Vitinha has revealed how Cristiano Ronaldo continues to inspire Portugal’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder says the team hopes to win the tournament alongside - and for - their iconic captain.

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been informed of what needs to happen in order for him to become a Ballon d’Or contender in 2026, while Ruud Gullit has told GOAL why a ninth triumph for Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi cannot be ruled out. The title of best player on the planet will likely be bestowed upon a superstar performer that illuminates this summer’s World Cup.

Ousmane Dembele has defended his Ligue 1 Player of the Year award after starting just nine league matches to date for Paris Saint-Germain this season. The winger edged out Vitinha, Mason Greenwood and others for the prize, insisting he made his impact count whenever he was on the pitch.

PSG injury concern: Midfielder Vitinha was substituted early during the club’s league match against Olympique Lyon.

Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha proved that football is about more than just results with a heartwarming post-match gesture following his side's victory over Liverpool. Despite dominating the midfield battle at the Parc des Princes, the Portuguese international stayed behind long after the final whistle to fulfill a special promise.