Real Madrid have been handed a major boost as Kylian Mbappe has officially returned to first-team training under the watchful eye of Jose Mourinho. The French superstar is now expected to feature in this weekend's clash against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu after recovering from a recent knee issue.
Former Premier League midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate has officially announced his retirement from football at the age of 36, revealing a shocking secret. The ex-Senegal international confessed that he played his entire professional career while suffering from a hidden heart condition, keeping the serious medical issue concealed from his national team doctors and his family.
Former Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has expressed his concerns about potentially being stripped of the medals he won during his time at the Etihad Stadium. The comments come after an independent commission found the club guilty of all charges relating to financial breaches over a nine-year period, leaving a huge cloud of uncertainty hanging over their past successes.
Napoli have been handed a significant injury boost as Scott McTominay has officially received medical clearance to return to competitive action. The Scotland international underwent a delicate heart procedure last month but has now passed the final hurdles required to rejoin his teammates on the pitch.
Kyle Walker has broken his silence following the seismic ruling that found Manchester City guilty of breaching Premier League financial regulations. The former club captain insisted that no matter the legal outcome, the memories and achievements of the players remain untouchable.
Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has avoided an immediate touchline ban after the Football Association handed him a suspended six-week ban and a £28,000 fine for his involvement in the Spygate scandal. This punishment follows the club's earlier expulsion from the Championship play-offs and a four-point deduction for secretly filming opposition training sessions throughout the previous campaign.
The Buccaneers midfielder has spoken candidly about his mental and physical battle to return to fitness ahead of the MTN8 final. The 24-year-old is in line to feature against Mamelodi Sundowns as the Soweto club look to defend their crown in Durban this weekend.
Manchester City icon David Silva has stunned the footballing world by announcing a return to professional action at the age of 40. The legendary Spanish playmaker, who enjoyed a trophy-laden decade at the Etihad Stadium, has signed a deal to join Hong Kong Premier League outfit Supreme Sha Tin.
Manchester City, despite having 115 Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges hanging over their head and a damning “sham” statement from the Premier League ringing in their ears, remain unwavering in their belief that no rules have been broken and their name will be cleared. Cult hero Paul Dickov has delivered his take on the long-running saga to GOAL, with there still the potential for game-changing “cards” to be pulled out of collective sleeves.
Former England defender Micah Richards has lavished significant praise on Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly following his highly impressive performance for the national team during their recent Nations League victory. The pundit described the versatile midfielder as 'unbelievable' and firmly insisted he possesses far too much quality to simply remain a substitute under Mikel Arteta at club level.
Spanish icon Pedro has officially hung up his boots at the age of 39, bringing an end to one of the most decorated careers in modern football history. The former Barcelona and Chelsea star confirmed his decision to retire four months after the conclusion of his final professional contract in Serie A.
A Chloorkop legend has backed the talented shot-stopper to play a pivotal role for the Brazilians this season despite the presence of Ronwen Williams. The 32-year-old goalkeeper has returned to Pretoria following several loan moves, with the club determined to keep him as part of their ambitious squad.
The footballing world stood still as Lionel Messi finally closed the curtain on his legendary international career with Argentina. Following his farewell appearance against Benin, former teammate and current Barcelona sporting director Deco joined the chorus of voices hailing the greatest player to ever grace the game.
Switzerland are on the verge of securing promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League, but head coach Murat Yakin believes the job is far from finished. Following a perfect start to their campaign, the manager has turned his attention to the reintegration of two of his most vital senior figures.
Manchester City’s legal battles are far from over as the club now faces the looming threat of secondary sanctions from UEFA. Following the recent ruling that saw the Premier League giants found guilty of 114 breaches of financial regulations, European football’s governing body is reportedly keeping a close watch on the situation.
Thomas Tuchel has expressed his delight at England’s tactical evolution, claiming the Three Lions are now operating at a remarkably high level following their recent Nations League success. The German coach believes the resilience forged during last summer's World Cup has become the foundation for his side's current dominant form.
Downs forward has lifted the lid on Miguel Cardoso’s burning desire to secure a piece of silverware currently missing from his impressive trophy cabinet. As the Brazilians prepare for a high-stakes showdown at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, the message from the technical bench has been made crystal clear to the entire squad.
Manchester United continue to see questions asked of their defensive unit, so could that situation see their transfer radar turn back in the direction of USMNT and Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson? Ex-Cottagers striker Bobby Zamora has told GOAL why a deal could make sense, with the Red Devils forever in the market for players with proven Premier League pedigree.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been locked in a career-long rivalry, with GOAT status up for grabs, but do they keep an eye on what the other is doing? CR7’s former Manchester United team-mate Anderson has told GOAL that two global superstars do “care” about the record-shattering numbers that continue to be posted on opposing sides of a fierce divide.
Liverpool defender Milos Kerkez has been forced to address a bizarre and escalating political controversy after being named on a database of 'enemies of Ukraine'. The Hungary international, along with his father, was included on the list following a heated on-pitch exchange during a recent Nations League fixture.
Croatian midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Kristijan Jakic shared their frustration after Spain snatched a late 2-1 victory in Split. The duo insisted Croatia showed crucial character following their heavy defeat to England.