Copa Libertadores Qualification Overview

With the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo duopoly presumably disappearing into the rearview mirror, the battle for the Ballon d'Or hasn't felt so open for the best part of 20 years, with countless players now beginning each campaign believing they have a chance of claiming the most prestigious individual prize football has to offer. Ousmane Dembele emerged from a career plagued by injuries and inconsistencies to win the Golden Ball in 2025, and he is among a crowded field of contenders again in 2026.

Paris Saint-Germain have slapped a significant price tag on teenage sensation Ibrahima Mbaye after the winger expressed his desire to leave the Parc des Princes. The 18-year-old is seeking more regular first-team football following a frustrating campaign in the French capital.

RB Leipzig are prepared to dig their heels in over the future of teenage sensation Yan Diomande despite interest from Europe’s biggest heavyweights. The Bundesliga side have maintained a firm stance that their star asset will not be allowed to leave during the current transfer window.

Nottingham Forest are closing in on a significant coup with the addition of experienced midfielder Xaver Schlager on a free transfer. The 28-year-old Austrian international is set to arrive at the City Ground to bolster a midfield that recently lost a key figure to a Premier League giant.