In a fresh act of protest, the mural featuring Nico Williams in Bilbao has once again been desecrated, just hours after it had been lovingly restored. The backlash from certain Athletic Club fans has escalated as the Spain international edges closer to a transfer to rivals Barcelona, a move that has sparked visible anger among the Basque community.
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso lost a key figure ahead of Juventus clash, with David Alaba ruled out for the remainder of the Club World Cup. The 33-year-old Austrian international had been sidelined since April after sustaining a meniscus injury in his left knee, which required surgery. Though he was making progress in his rehabilitation, his latest calf problem has forced Madrid to rule him out.
Cristian Romero’s absence from Tottenham Hotspurs’ 2024-25 kit launch video has sparked fresh hope for Atletico Madrid in their pursuit of the Argentina defender. Los Rojiblancos boss Diego Simeone is pushing for a deal this summer, but Spurs are standing firm on their £60 million ($82.2m) valuation despite reports of financial pressure in North London.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Valencia centre-back Cristhian Mosquera has hit an early snag after the Spanish club reportedly dismissed the Gunners’ opening bid. According to Radio Marca Valencia, the La Liga outfit have already turned down an offer that fell short of their €20 million (£17m/$23.5m) asking price for the highly-rated 21-year-old.
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso praised young striker Gonzalo Garcia after his Club World Cup display, calling him a “typical No. 9” with Raul-like traits.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has reignited the age-old rivalry with Real Madrid by publicly contrasting the fundamental values and structures that define Spain's two footballing giants. Speaking on the club’s official podcast, Laporta emphasised that Barcelona's ethos lies in nurturing homegrown talent, while he claimed that Real Madrid’s success relies heavily on financial power and high-profile transfers.
Teddy Sheringham has hit out at Marcus Rashford’s links to Barcelona, insisting the Manchester United forward should not be rewarded with a dream move after reportedly downing tools last season. The ex-England striker believes Rashford hasn’t earned such a switch and is making a big mistake trying to force an exit.