The road to the 2026 World Cup has officially taken a brick-built turn as footballâs biggest icons have been transformed into LEGO form. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo lead an all-star cast that includes Real Madrid duo Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr in a new advert that is certain to break the internet.
Brad Friedel has explained to GOAL why Mauricio Pochettino will never have been open to the idea of a âdual jobâ that saw him coach both Tottenham and the USMNT. Spurs recently found themselves back in the market for a new manager after bringing Igor Tudorâs ill-fated 44-day tenure to a close. Former fan favourite Pochettino saw a return to north London speculated on, but he has World Cup plans to focus on this summer.
Gianluigi Donnarumma was one of just a number of Italy players reduced to tears by Tuesday's World Cup play-off loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina - but the penalty shootout defeat in Zenica hit the goalkeeper harder than most. This wasn't the first time he'd been involved in a failed attempt to qualify - it was the third. Despite his devastation, though, Donnarumma remained defiant.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has delivered a chilling ultimatum to Italy, warning that the nation could be stripped of its Euro 2032 hosting rights if drastic improvements are not made to its crumbling stadium infrastructure. The threat comes at a time of unprecedented crisis for the Azzurri following their third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup.
Folarin Balogun is reportedly attracting interest from the Premier League amid a strong season with Monaco. The former Arsenal striker is enjoying his best campaign yet in the principality, sparking rumours of a return to the English top flight.
NBA superstar Klay Thompson has explained how Lionel Messi and Barcelona helped to inspire the dynasty enjoyed in basketball circles by Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Argentine GOAT Messi starred for the Catalan giants alongside the likes of Ronaldinho and Neymar, with Pep Guardiola introducing âtiki-takaâ to the world. Similar principles have been embraced in California, allowing major silverware to be secured.
Liverpool risk losing one of their defensive pillars as contract negotiations with Ibrahima Konate hit a significant stumbling block over salary expectations. The Frenchman is reportedly holding out for a deal that would make him one of the club's highest-paid players.
Everton are reportedly exploring the possibility of making Jack Grealishâs loan move from Manchester City permanent despite a serious injury blow. The England international made a good impact at Hill Dickinson Stadium before being sidelined, leaving the Toffees to weigh up a significant summer investment.
Elliot Anderson continues to generate plenty of transfer speculation, amid links to Manchester rivals United and City, but Chris Waddle can see the England international returning to his roots at Newcastle. Nottingham Forest are expected to field plenty of offers for the classy midfielder this summer, with it possible that an emotional homecoming could be taken in by the highly-rated 23-year-old.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has opened up about his journey with his mental health, revealing how professional support transformed his career shortly before the 2022 World Cup. He is now using his platform to encourage the next generation to prioritise their psychological well-being.
Manchester United have been told they would be âsillyâ not to rekindle interest in England captain Harry Kane if exit doors do open up at Bayern Munich. The Bundesliga champions are reluctant to part with their prolific No.9, but concede that big-money offers could force their hand. Kane has previously seen a move to Old Trafford mooted, and fresh transfer talks may be lined up.
Chelsea defender Lucy Bronze has claimed that the Blues were the "better team" across their Women's Champions League quarter-final tie against Arsenal despite suffering a painful aggregate defeat. The England international believes a lack of efficiency in front of goal was the only difference between the two London rivals.
Sam Kerr is reportedly set to end her time with Chelsea to return to the NWSL. The Australian icon is expected to sign with expansion side Denver Summit FC after six dominant years in west London.
Reports of the purchase option in Marcus Rashfordâs loan agreement at Barcelona expiring have been addressed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. It has been suggested that the âŹ30 million (ÂŁ26m/$35m) buyout clause in the wingerâs deal at Camp Nou is no longer valid, with parent club Manchester United therefore in a position to dictate what happens in the summer window.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has launched a scathing attack on FIFA's international calendar after star winger Raphinha was sidelined with a hamstring injury. The Brazilian attacker suffered the blow during a friendly against France, leaving the Catalan giants without one of their most influential players for a season-defining run of fixtures.
Mikel Artetaâs Arsenal have been given a green light in their pursuit of Castello Lukeba. RB Leipzig are reportedly ready to accept a fee lower than the release clause for the France international, placing the Gunners in pole position to secure his signature this summer.
Gennaro Gattuso is expected to step down as Italy head coach following the nation's catastrophic failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The Azzurri suffered a heartbreaking playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, marking the third consecutive time the four-time world champions will be absent from the global stage.
U21 international striker Nicolo Tresoldi could play for as many as three major footballing nations and is reportedly looking to move clubs again this summer. Which national team manager will be the first to call him? And whatâs the situation with BVB?
Harry Kane is a major doubt for Bayern Munichâs upcoming fixtures after returning from England duty with an ankle knock. The striker missed the Three Lions' friendly against Japan and is now facing a race against time to recover ahead of the Champions League clash against Real Madrid.
It is almost certain that El Mala will leave 1. FC KĂśln this summer. But where to? His preferred plan might be risky for his development, but it is likely to be beneficial overall.
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has opened up about the private counsel he offered Mohamed Salah following the forwardâs public falling out with head coach Arne Slot. The attacker caused shockwaves across Merseyside earlier this season when he hit out at his managerâs selection decisions, but a text exchange with the club's greatest-ever captain helped steady the ship before his final farewell.
