Vinicius Junior’s long-standing rivalry with Pablo Maffeo reached a boiling point once again during Real Madrid’s disappointing 2-1 defeat to Mallorca on Saturday. The Brazilian winger was subjected to persistent provocations as Los Blancos saw their La Liga title hopes suffer a significant blow away from home.
Leon Goretzka has opened up on his decision to remain at Bayern Munich during the January transfer window despite heavy interest from several European heavyweights, including Premier League leaders Arsenal. With Bayern still competing on three fronts, the 31-year-old is focused on adding more trophies to his cabinet before his contract situation reaches a head in the summer.
Following a less-than-convincing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign for Bafana Bafana, it comes as little surprise that the Belgian mentor is having second thoughts about stepping away, with plenty of work still to be done. And with no clear successor identified, it remains to be seen, as a former Buccaneers coach believes the Belgian has done a solid job so far and maintains that the final decision rests between the coach and the South African Football Association.
Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo has been left in awe of Rayan Cherki's technical ability, and described the Frenchman as "one of the world's best" after the pair inspired Manchester City to a statement victory over Liverpool. The duo were in scintillating form at the Etihad Stadium as Pep Guardiola’s side secured their place in the FA Cup semi-finals with a 4-0 rout.
Marcus Rashford has taken a significant step toward making his stay at Barcelona permanent following a commanding performance in the win over Atletico Madrid. The Manchester United loanee, who has revitalised his career in La Liga, proved to be the difference-maker as the Blaugrana continue to weigh up their summer transfer options.
The South Africa national team coach is already shaping the final squad he plans to take to the global football showpiece. After a few surprise selections during the recent FIFA international break, more shocking decisions could still be on the way as he finalises his squad.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has delivered a scathing assessment of his side's mental fortitude following their bruising 4-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of Manchester City. The dejected skipper suggested that his team-mates may have actually stopped fighting as Erling Haaland and company ran riot at the Etihad Stadium.
After initial struggles, the Mamelodi Sundowns star has rediscovered his form and become an important figure for his club. His rejuvenation saw him get called up to the Bafana Bafana team, and should he keep his form, his chances of going to the global showpiece are almost assured. Although Hugo Broos has numerous options for the midfield department, he has been asked to deploy the two Downs stars together.
Liverpool have been warned that replacing Mohamed Salah with just one player is an "impossible" task. Former England winger Chris Waddle stated that it will be difficult for the Reds to recruit a replacement for Salah, as there are currently few players with the striker's abilities. Waddle suggested Liverpool should sign two players at once, such as Three Lions duo Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly identified the man he wants to succeed him at Old Trafford, and the candidate shares more than just a nationality with the Red Devils skipper. The Portuguese talisman is set to recommend a move for a Premier League rival who has caught the eye despite playing for a struggling side this season.
The Tshwane giants head coach has welcomed personal accolades but attributes them entirely to the collective effort of his squad as the Brazilians continue their relentless march toward the league title. Despite picking up his second consecutive Coach of the Month trophy, the tactician remains laser-focused on the bigger picture at Chloorkop.
Former Arsenal man Theo Walcott has claimed that Mikel Arteta’s "nervous energy" on the touchline filtered through to his players during their disappointing FA Cup exit at Southampton. The Gunners saw their trophy dreams further diminished as a late Shea Charles strike secured a 2-1 victory for the Championship side on the south coast.
