Nico Paz announced himself on the international stage with a moment of pure magic during Argentinaâs friendly clash against Mauritania at La Bombonera. The 21-year-old playmaker left even the legendary Lionel Messi watching in awe from the bench as he whipped a sublime free-kick into the back of the net.
Lionel Messi remains the biggest attraction in world football, as evidenced by the chaotic scenes following Argentina's latest friendly outing against Mauritania. Despite the competitive nature of the match, the full-time whistle sparked a dash from the opposition to secure a permanent memory with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Manuel Neuer has received the ultimate praise as he celebrates his 40th birthday, with former manager Felix Magath ranking the goalkeeper alongside the greatest players to ever grace the pitch. The Bayern Munich captain, whose future remains a subject of intense speculation, has been categorised in the same bracket as multiple Ballon d'Or winners Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Lionel Scaloni has indicated that Lionel Messi has still not confirmed he will lead Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. The national team boss was quick to deflect pressure away from the Inter Miami superstar, reiterating that the decision rests entirely with the player himself.
Brazil legend Zico has delivered an honest assessment of Neymarâs career, suggesting the Santos star has failed to match the professionalism of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite acknowledging his compatriot's immense natural ability, Zico believes off-field habits have hindered the forwardâs longevity and consistency.
Former Argentina defender Pablo Zabaleta believes a romantic Barcelona return for Lionel Messi is not out of the question. The Inter Miami star's ex-teammate has opened up on the unique leadership qualities that make the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner a "rare" talent.
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has waded into the debate surrounding Neymar's legacy, directly challenging former team-mate Wayne Rooneyâs recent suggestion that the Brazilian was never a "top, top player". Speaking on his podcast, the former England defender insisted that at his peak, Neymar possessed a level of flair and technical ability that rivalled Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. While acknowledging Rooney's own greatness, Ferdinand argued that the Santos star was once the undisputed heir to the global throne.
Mohamed Salah has announced his emotional departure from Liverpool at the end of the season, sparking a massive race for his signature. While Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal are heavily linked, Inter Miami are reportedly "willing" to make a blockbuster offer to bring the Egyptian icon to MLS and pair him with Lionel Messi in the United States.
He's only gone and done it again! A year after becoming the first player to win NXGN twice, Lamine Yamal has finished top of GOAL's annual list of the top teenagers in world football for the third time in a row. It's not as if the outcome of the 2026 vote was ever in any doubt either. Yamal is no longer just the most talented young player in the game today. He's also its most talented player, full stop.
Mauricio Pochettino has hit back at Thierry Henry, labelling the Arsenal legend's criticism of his Paris Saint-Germain tenure as "disrespectful". The current USMNT boss specifically addressed claims that he failed to utilize Lionel Messi correctly during his time at the Parc des Princes.
Former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has finally addressed long-standing claims regarding Lionel Messi's alleged influence over club transfers during his final years at Camp Nou. Bartomeu debunked myths about the Argentine's power while shedding light on the financial turmoil that engulfed the club before his departure.
The Apple TV analyst caught up with GOAL to talk about why Lionel Messi's Inter Miami have been inconsistent, and speculated how a potential Robert Lewandowski arrival could change MLS.
adidas have dropped an ice-cold new boot pack ready for the run-in, with new paintjobs for their Predator, F50 and Copa silos. With the countdown well and truly on to the 2026 World Cup, this will likely be the German sportswear giant's last release of the regular season.
Lionel Messi netted the 71st free-kick goal of his career as he inspired Inter Miami to a 3-2 victory over New York City FC in Major League Soccer on Sunday. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner dragged his side level to 2-2 with a deflected set-piece that left USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese stranded between the sticks.
Lionel Messi grabbed a goal, but it was a day for Inter Miami's defenders, as both of their center backs found the net in a back-and-forth 3-2 win over Eastern Conference leaders NYCFC. The Herons took the lead, but were never fully assured with it, and twice had to reclaim a slender advantage to return to South Florida with a hard-earned win - and move to third in the East.
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