Nukul Jashoria

Kim Min-jae’s time at Bayern Munich could be nearing an end after struggling to earn regular minutes under Vincent Kompany. The former Napoli defender, now behind Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah in the pecking order, has emerged as a target for AC Milan and Juventus ahead of January. However, his €9 million salary could block a Serie A return despite growing frustration in Germany.

Juventus have reportedly identified Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as a potential future manager amid growing scrutiny on Igor Tudor. While the Bianconeri remain unbeaten in Serie A, frustration is mounting over their series of draws and lack of progress. Maresca, who has impressed in England, is seen as an ideal long-term fit for the Turin giants.

Werder Bremen forward Medina Desic has issued a public apology after celebrating her side’s Frauen Bundesliga derby win against Hamburg by holding up a provocative fan sign featuring a poop emoji and their rivals' crest. The 32-year-old admitted the incident was the result of a “moment of euphoria” and insisted she did not intend to insult or provoke anyone.

Ferland Mendy is finally nearing his Real Madrid return after six months out with a serious thigh injury sustained in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona last season. The French defender will rejoin partial team training this week but faces a new challenge under Xabi Alonso, with Alvaro Carreras now the undisputed starter at left-back.

Barcelona’s mounting injury crisis has taken another devastating turn as Raphinha’s recovery has hit a major setback ahead of El Clasico. The Brazilian winger is now at serious risk of missing the headline La Liga showdown against Real Madrid, joining Robert Lewandowski on the sidelines after the striker was ruled out with a thigh injury.

Borussia Dortmund have been handed a major boost ahead of their Bundesliga clash against Bayern Munich, with Serhou Guirassy back in full training after injury concerns. The Guinean striker, described by Niko Kovac as the team's “life insurance,” looks set to lead the line in Saturday’s highly-anticipated Klassiker clash after overcoming thigh problems.

Memphis Depay could remain at Corinthians beyond 2026 despite a dispute over unpaid bonuses. The 31-year-old Dutch attacker has been key for the Sao Paulo giants since arriving from Atletico Madrid and Corinthians are reportedly keen to extend his contract once their current financial obligations are settled.

Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown is attracting interest from Europe’s elite, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid all reportedly monitoring the 22-year-old. Despite the attention, Frankfurt have confirmed they will not entertain offers until next summer. Brown, who recently made his German national team debut, could command a fee of up to €60 million.

Frenkie de Jong is set to secure his Barcelona future by signing a new contract extension until 2029, with an enormous €500 million release clause. The Dutch midfielder will put pen to paper on Wednesday alongside club president Joan Laporta. His renewal marks a major boost for Barca, who view him as a central figure in Hansi Flick’s long-term project.

Julian Nagelsmann has grown frustrated by ongoing talk of a potential return to the Germany team for Manuel Neuer, insisting the national team's goalkeeping situation remains strong despite Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s uncertain future. As injuries and form concerns continue to test Germany’s depth, the coach has called for stability ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Rafael Leao’s inconsistent return for AC Milan has sparked tensions behind the scenes, including a fiery exchange with coach Massimiliano Allegri. The Portuguese winger was reportedly scolded in front of his team-mates following missed chances against Juventus, with his starting role now under threat as Milan’s boss demands greater intensity and maturity.

Joao Felix’s Saudi Arabian adventure has started with fireworks and controversy over his decision. The 25-year-old former Benfica prodigy sparked debate over his career direction when he joined Al-Nassr in July while former team Benfica were chasing him. However, coach Jorge Jesus insists the move was the right call, claiming the Saudi league is “much stronger” than Portugal’s, and says Félix’s link-up with Cristiano Ronaldo can boost Portugal’s World Cup hopes.

Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich are drawing plaudits across Europe after a flawless start to the season. Former Germany star Matthias Sammer hailed the ex-Manchester City captain for his calm authority and leadership, saying Bayern have become “untouchable” under his guidance, echoing similar praise from Philipp Lahm recently, crediting Kompany for restoring stability and dominance at the club.

Adrien Rabiot’s strong criticism of Serie A’s decision to stage AC Milan’s clash with Como in Australia has sparked a fiery response from league CEO Luigi De Siervo. The executive hit back, urging the French midfielder to “respect the money he earns” and “just play football,” defending the move as necessary to promote Italian football globally.

Villarreal have unveiled plans to fly fans to Miami for their La Liga clash against Barcelona, offering free travel for supporters attending the December 20 fixture. CEO Fernando Roig Negueroles defended the controversial move, insisting the game is “about image and the future, not business,” as UEFA reluctantly approved Spain’s first-ever domestic match staged abroad.

Real Madrid are preparing two key bargain signings for 2026 as part of a long-term squad rejuvenation plan. The Spanish giants are monitoring Stuttgart midfielder Chema Andres, viewed as a potential successor to Aurelien Tchouameni, while also finalising plans to bring back Nico Paz from Como. Both moves could cost under €20 million combined.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has suggested they will not sign a new striker to replace Robert Lewandowski, calling it “a mistake” to be obsessed with a No.9. Amid ongoing links to Erling Haaland and Serhou Guirassy, Deco insisted that Barca should focus on renewal and internal stability instead of pursuing high-profile transfers.

Former Juventus and Netherlands winger Eljero Elia explained after he survived a terrifying car crash on the A4 motorway in Netherlands after wrecking his €300,000 Lamborghini. The 38-year-old’s luxury car collided with two others near Leiden, leaving the vehicles badly damaged. Fortunately, no one suffered serious injuries as police launched an investigation into the incident.