The annual NXGN lists are back for 2026, as GOAL ranks the world's top teenage talents in men's and women's football, crowning winners that will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Gianluigi Donnarumma and Vicky Lopez in being recognised as the best young footballers on the planet.
The annual NXGN lists are back for 2026, as GOAL ranks the world's top teenage talents in men's and women's football, crowning winners that will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Lena Oberdorf and Linda Caicedo in being recognised as the best young footballers on the planet.
Manchester City have been informed as to who the “best replacement” for Pep Guardiola will be, while Vincent Kompany is being backed to return to the Etihad Stadium at some point. Former Blues captain Richard Dunne has told GOAL what the future could look like in a coaching capacity, with two highly-decorated managers set to see their respective contracts expire in 2027.
Rayan Cherki put himself in the spotlight at Wembley with a blatant piece of gamesmanship during Manchester City’s Carabao Cup final win over Arsenal. The Frenchman poked fun at the Gunners by flashing a grin at the cameras while feigning an injury after a challenge from Ben White.
Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has been forced to withdraw from the Brazil squad after sustaining a knee injury during the Gunners' Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City. Despite completing the full 90 minutes at Wembley, the 28-year-old reported significant discomfort shortly after the final whistle. This development leaves the Gunners facing a growing defensive crisis as they prepare for a pivotal run-in following the international break.
It seems that the prospect of Sancho returning to BVB is gaining momentum. This is particularly because the club’s owner is fully convinced behind the scenes.
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.
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has confirmed that Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa was sent home ahead of a crucial World Cup play-off tie against Northern Ireland. The manager says the forward had some "minor issues" and "wasn't up to it".
Antonio Rudiger has hit back at accusations that his highly aggressive defensive style makes him a liability for his clubs and country. Following severe backlash over an unpunished challenge during a recent La Liga match against Getafe, the veteran defender firmly defended his on-pitch mentality while also acknowledging that he occasionally crosses the line and must take responsibility.
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has said he feels "sad" for Phil Foden after the Manchester City star was reduced to a late cameo in the Carabao Cup final. The England international, once among the first names on Pep Guardiola's team sheet, was forced to watch from the sidelines as his side secured more silverware at Wembley.
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has insisted the London club will remain a dominant force in women's football even if legendary figures Millie Bright and Sam Kerr depart this summer. The Blues boss faced direct questions regarding the futures of two of the club's longest-serving stars ahead of their crucial Women's Champions League quarter-final showdown against Arsenal, but refrained from giving a definitive answer.
Borussia Dortmund have moved swiftly to appoint Ole Book as their new sporting director following the departure of club legend Sebastian Kehl. The 40-year-old arrives from Elversberg, where he built a stellar reputation guiding the team up the German football pyramid. He faces an immediate rebuild as the eight-time champions look to bounce back from recent setbacks.
Jurgen Klopp has strongly dismissed repeated speculation linking him with the managerial position at Real Madrid, labelling the reports as complete "nonsense" invented by "idiots". The former Liverpool manager, who is currently enjoying his executive role at Red Bull, insisted he has had no contact with the Spanish club. However, he also revealed that his coaching career might not be over yet.
Amidst growing speculation regarding a summer departure from Stamford Bridge, Enzo Fernandez has publicly addressed the persistent rumours linking him with a move to Real Madrid. The Argentine midfielder firmly denied that any negotiations have taken place with the Spanish giants, though his comments regarding his commitment to Chelsea have left the door wide open.
Tottenham Hotspur have identified Roberto De Zerbi as a primary target to take over the managerial reins. The former Brighton and Marseille head coach is reportedly open to the move to north London. However, any potential deal hinges entirely on a massive caveat: Spurs must successfully fight off relegation and retain their top-flight status for next season.
Former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has sharply criticised the club's American owners for treating the team purely as a business. Amidst defensive struggles and four consecutive defeats, Petit warns that new manager Liam Rosenior may not see out the rest of the season, demanding an immediate change to salvage their fading Champions League qualification hopes.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister firmly believes interim manager Michael Carrick has earned the right to be appointed permanently at Old Trafford. As his highly impressive temporary spell in charge continues, the ex-star insists the club hierarchy could not have demanded better results or a more positive impact, urging them to secure his long-term future immediately.
Former Ballon d'Or winner Shevchenko, spotted at the Italian leg of the Legends Trophy – an international padel circuit bringing together some of the world's greatest football legends – speaks about his former club, Milan
The last time Manchester City beat Arsenal in a League Cup final signalled the start of Pep Guardiola's dynasty. And so Sunday's victory over the Gunners at Wembley to lift the trophy for a fifth time, more than any other coach in the competition's history, would certainly be a fitting way to bookend the Catalan coach's dominant decade in English football.