Pedro Leon has opened up on his turbulent spell under Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid, insisting he has “forgiven” the Portuguese coach despite the harsh treatment he received. The former winger recalled the infamous “he’s not Zinedine Zidane or Diego Maradona” jibe and revealed how the controversy still shapes how he views his career more than a decade later.
Following a court decision in his favour, Anwar El Ghazi issued a brutal statement denouncing Mainz, who have been ordered to pay his full salary after the unlawful termination of his contract in 2023 over pro-Palestinian comments on social media. El Ghazi described the Bundesliga club’s stance as “baseless” and “nonsensical,” further branding them “serial losers” and “deluded.”
Neymar has seen another transfer door open in front of him, with Boca Juniors captain Leandro Paredes claiming that the Argentine outfit are prepared to “wait” for the Brazilian superstar. Neymar is in the process of running down his contract during a second spell at Santos, with it previously being suggested that he could reunite with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami once hitting free agency.
Jeremy Doku’s sensational display in Manchester City’s dominant win over Liverpool has sparked huge praise, with former striker Paul Dickov claiming he “can’t think of a better winger in Europe right now”. The Belgian tormented Liverpool’s defence all afternoon, further cementing his status as one of Pep Guardiola’s most dangerous attacking weapons this season.
Napoli are training without Antonio Conte this week after the Italian coach took agreed leave in the aftermath of Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Bologna, a result that deepened concerns around the Serie A champions’ fading form. With pressure intensifying after five losses this season and whispers of resignation spreading online, the break arrives at a complicated moment for a team struggling for goals, rhythm and identity.
Lionel Messi was reportedly left feeling “deceived and betrayed” by Barcelona after seeing his dreams of making an emotional return to Camp Nou as a player cruelly dashed. The Argentine superstar was forced out of Catalunya in 2021, as he headed to Paris Saint-Germain, but saw an agreement lined up two years later that would have allowed professional steps to be retraced.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has dismissed any talk of tension between Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal following their fiery exchange in El Clasico. The national team boss revealed he personally spoke to both players and confirmed there “wouldn't be any problem" between them as La Roja prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers this month.
Former Schalke coach Jens Keller, who managed Leroy Sane and handed him his professional debut, has criticised Germany national team boss Julian Nagelsmann for his comments about the winger. On Monday, Nagelsmann issued another warning to Sane regarding his World Cup prospects following his move to Galatasaray, with Keller of the belief that such comments should be reserved for private conversations.
Dean Huijsen has stepped forward to defend Lamine Yamal and Vinicius Jr, insisting both stars face unfair levels of scrutiny as media pressure intensifies around Barcelona and Real Madrid. The 20-year-old Madrid centre-back discussed the growing noise around Spanish football, calling for balance as the national team head into crucial World Cup qualifiers without the injured Yamal.
Harry Kane has received more transfer advice from Chris Waddle, with the England captain being told that “Bayern Munich are massive but Real Madrid are even bigger”. It has been revealed that exit clauses in Kane’s contract at the Allianz Arena can be triggered in 2026. A Premier League return is considered to be unlikely, but the prolific striker could end up heading for Spain.
Liverpool have been warned they may have completely destroyed their hopes of signing long-term target Marc Guehi after failing to close a deal in the previous summer window. With interest rising across Europe and Crystal Palace holding firm, the Reds are now being told they “blew their chance” and face an uphill battle to revive talks with the England international.
Wrexham CEO Michael Williamson has explained why Ryan Reynolds, Rob Mac and the rest of the club’s board are already planning for life in the Premier League. The Red Dragons have enjoyed a meteoric rise under Hollywood co-owners and continue to make no secret of the fact that their ultimate objective is to deliver top-flight football to the Racecourse Ground.
Yan Diomande, the breakout star of the Bundesliga this season, has been sensational for RB Leipzig since making the switch from La Liga in the summer. His performances, per reports from Germany, have attracted the interest of Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The teenager has been predicted to become as good as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.
Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his full belief that Cristiano Ronaldo will achieve the incredible 1,000-goal milestone before hanging up his boots. The Brazil coach reflected on his time at Real Madrid and lauded the professionalism of Ronaldo, comparing him to Luka Modric. The Italian tactician even joked that he expects an invitation to celebrate with his former player when the record is broken.
The Portugal U16 women’s national team experienced the surprise of a lifetime as they came face-to-face with Cristiano Ronaldo and the senior men’s squad during a special visit to training. The young players were left speechless as they stood only steps away from their idols, witnessing the global icons up close in a heart-warming moment that instantly went viral.
Fraizer Campbell has told GOAL, during an exclusive interview, why “incredible specimen” Cristiano Ronaldo could play on for several more years and start moving towards the age of 50. The Portuguese GOAT is still going strong at 40 and has signed a new contract at Al-Nassr. While he has dropped the odd retirement hint, that path is not expected to be trodden any time soon.
Carlo Ancelotti has lifted the lid on why his final season at Real Madrid unravelled despite Kylian Mbappe’s blockbuster arrival. Speaking from Brazil, the legendary coach detailed the defensive crisis that derailed Los Blancos’ campaign and forced tactical improvisation in key moments as the campaign ended without a major trophy.
Atletico Madrid star Andrea Medina suffered a “traumatic brain injury” during a Women’s Champions League clash with Juventus. She required urgent medical attention on the field before being rushed to hospital. A positive update on her condition has been delivered as the 21-year-old starts out on the road to recovery - with the wider footballing world wishing her well.
Bayern Munich have reportedly decided to offer veteran goalkeeper and club legend Manuel Neuer a contract extension for another year, which would see him remain at the Allianz Arena until June 2027. The 2014 World Cup-winning custodian has reiterated that he wants to take his time before reaching a decision over his future, however, with the club set to hold talks in December.
Morten Hjulmand’s stock continues to rise after a standout Champions League display against Juventus, but Sporting CP have warned that even an €80 million bid won’t be enough to buy him in January. With his release clause currently deactivated, clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus will have to wait until summer to make a move for the Danish midfielder.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has brutally admitted that signing for Chelsea in 2022 was a “f*cking big mistake,” reflecting on a move that marked the lowest point of his career. The Gabonese striker revealed that personal turmoil at Barcelona and his desperation for a fresh start pushed him into joining the West London side, a decision he now deeply regrets.
Thomas Tuchel is ready to pit childhood friends Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers against one another, with the battle on to become England’s playmaking No.10 at the 2026 World Cup. Phil Foden also forms part of that discussion, with the Three Lions’ German coach making it clear that he will not force all of the “best players” into his starting XI.
The schedule for Euro 2028 has been released, with England - if they qualify - set to take in their first game of that tournament away from Wembley at the Etihad Stadium. The home of Manchester City will play host to the Three Lions after a competition opener that heads to Wales and the Principality Stadium - with the countdown on to an event that will also see fixtures take place in Scotland and Ireland.
Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has admitted he let standards at the club slip during his final season in charge, accepting blame for their decline after early success. The club legend reflected on his spell at the helm at Camp Nou with self-criticism, acknowledging the team’s attitude and respect dwindled after winning La Liga and explaining why he’s taking time before returning to management.
Winning trophies and top-scorer awards might be routine to Erling Haaland, but this week the striker stands on the brink of what could be a once-in-lifetime opportunity: to qualify for the World Cup with Norway. Since Haaland was born in 2000, Norway have never competed on the world's biggest stage. Their six attempts have all fallen flat, only reaching the play-offs on one occasion.
If Phil Foden were able to replicate his strike rate for Manchester City when he put on an England shirt, then he would be keeping company with team-mate Bukayo Saka and Paul Scholes in the top 40 of the Three Lions' all-time goal-scorers. Instead, one has to scroll through the archives, past players whose photos are in black and white or even from an era when there was no photography to find him on the list.
Mainz have lost their legal battle against former player Anwar El Ghazi after a court ruled that the Dutch winger’s dismissal over pro-Palestine social media posts was invalid. The verdict upholds an earlier decision made in the summer of 2024, forcing the Bundesliga club to honour his full salary for his time with them.
Álvaro Fidalgo’s chances of representing Mexico appear closer than ever, as Javier Aguirre confirmed he intends to call up the América midfielder once he becomes eligible in March 2026. The Spanish-born playmaker, who has spent nearly five years in Liga MX, is on track to join Mexico’s growing group of naturalized players.
Son Heung-Min has dismissed speculation linking him with a winter loan move away from Los Angeles Football Club, stating that he remains committed to the MLS side as they prepare for their conference semifinal. The South Korean international addressed the rumors this week, saying he intends to stay with his current club.
Fresh off being named MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, St. Clair joined GOAL Convo to reflect on his breakout campaign and why Minnesota United could be a postseason threat.