Aditya Gokhale

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has been handed a much-needed boost as Lisandro Martinez edges closer to a return after seven months out with an ACL injury. The Argentinian defender has stepped back onto the grass for the first time since February, raising hopes of a comeback after the international break.

Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak finally pulled on the Reds shirt for the first time, featuring in Wednesday night’s thrilling 3-2 Champions League win over Atletico Madrid. The £125 million striker lasted just under an hour at Anfield, but his display left Arne Slot both encouraged and slightly taken aback by the Swede’s sharpness so soon after joining from Newcastle.

Chelsea’s return to the Champions League was undone by costly mistakes, as Cole Palmer admitted their own errors gifted Bayern Munich a 3-1 victory at the Allianz Arena. Harry Kane, once again tormenting his former Premier League rivals, scored twice as the Blues faltered in their league-stage opener. Palmer, who netted a superb strike himself, insisted the defeat was avoidable.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League return could not have been scripted better, with Lucas Bergvall delivering a standout debut under the lights and earning plaudits from legends of the game. Ange Postecoglou’s groundwork from last season is now paying dividends, with the teenager stepping up on Europe’s biggest stage under new boss Thomas Frank.

The Special One is back on familiar ground! Jose Mourinho, who is set to take charge of Benfica on a two-year deal, will find himself on English soil twice within the next month as the Champions League league phase unfolds. With trips to both Stamford Bridge and St James’ Park on the horizon, Mourinho is set for an early reunion with his former hunting ground..

A Champions League thriller at Anfield between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid on Wednesday was overshadowed by ugly touchline scenes involving Diego Simeone and his staff. Fan footage circulating online appears to show an Atletico backroom member spitting towards supporters after the Argentine coach was sent off late on. Calls are now growing for UEFA to step in and hand down a serious punishment.

Cardiff City legend Sol Bamba has been honoured with a new mural in Grangetown, unveiled less than a year after his tragic death at the age of 39. His widow, Chloe, delivered a heartfelt tribute at the ceremony, admitting she will “never be OK” with how her husband was taken but expressing gratitude for the love and support shown by the community.

Manchester United's downfall under Ruben Amorim looks no closer to halting with the Red Devils enduring their worst start in 33 years. Fans of the 20-time Premier League champions are urging the club to re-sign former coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after showing proof that the Norwegian manager was sacked prematurely in 2021.

Hansi Flick admits he is aware of the physical size and strength of Newcastle United ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League opener at St James’ Park on Thursday night. The German coach praised Eddie Howe’s work in transforming the Magpies into a dynamic and physical side, while stressing the need for his own players to adapt quickly in what he expects will be one of the toughest atmospheres in Europe.

Villarreal boss Marcelino insists Thomas Partey is 'mentally prepared' to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League on Tuesday, just 24 hours before the midfielder appears in court over multiple rape charges. The former Arsenal star denies all allegations but will line up against his old rivals in north London before attending his plea hearing at Southwark Crown Court.

Mikel Arteta was asked about Arsenal’s summer interest in Nico Williams as he faced the press ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League opener against Athletic Club. The San Sebastian-born coach played down speculation over a potential move for the Spain international but admitted the winger is a “fantastic player” admired at both club and international level.

Andre Onana has suggested his Manchester United story may not be over despite sealing a season-long loan move to Trabzonspor. The goalkeeper has chosen to leave his family in Manchester while he looks to rebuild his reputation in Turkey, a decision that hints at a possible long-term return to Old Trafford once his loan spell ends in the summer of 2026.

Julian Alvarez’s agent has poured cold water on rumours linking the Argentine World Cup winner with a sensational switch to Liverpool in the summer of 2024. Reports had claimed the Reds proposed a swap involving Luis Diaz, but Fernando Hidalgo has now confirmed there were no official approaches, insisting the forward remains fully committed to Atletico Madrid.

Samuel Umtiti has officially announced his retirement from football at just 31 years old, bringing an end to a career that saw him win the 2018 World Cup with France and multiple trophies at Barcelona. The defender, once regarded as one of the best centre-backs in Europe, has been forced to hang up his boots after years of knee problems limited his playing time.

Hollywood star and Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds has donated £10,000 to help a 13-year-old Red Dragons fan from North Wales fulfil her dream of visiting New York at Christmas. Lexi, who is battling a rare and aggressive form of heart cancer, has already endured multiple surgeries and chemotherapy but continues to fight with remarkable strength.

Ruben Amorim could be handed a way out of his troubled Manchester United reign after Benfica presidential candidate Joao Noronha Lopes was spotted at the Etihad during Sunday’s derby defeat. The leading contender has openly spoken about bringing Amorim back to Lisbon if elected, raising fresh questions about the Portuguese coach’s long-term future at Old Trafford.

Gary Lineker has admitted he is “really worried” about Ruben Amorim’s handling of Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo. The teenager, once seen as a cornerstone of the Red Devils’ future, has struggled for minutes this season despite his reputation as one of England’s brightest prospects. Lineker says the situation is “slightly baffling” given the midfielder’s talent and potential.

Harry Kane has urged Bayern Munich to start their Champions League campaign strongly as they prepare to face Chelsea on Wednesday night. The England striker is determined to avoid the “stressful period” Bayern endured last season when they were forced into an extra playoff. Kane insists an early run of wins is crucial to easing the pressure.