Matogrossense - Phase FinaleVue d'ensemble

Rui Costa has revealed that Jose Mourinho's departure from Benfica was effectively decided before the Real Madrid presidential election outcome was known. The Benfica president said Mourinho had been transparent about Los Blancos' interest and confirmed a mutual agreement would have seen the coach leave even if Florentino Perez had not won the vote.

Brazilian icon Kaka has lifted the lid on his difficult four-year spell at Real Madrid, admitting that many supporters now view him as one of the club's greatest transfer failures. The former Ballon d'Or winner arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu with a massive reputation but struggled to replicate the world-class form he displayed at AC Milan.

Manchester City have been warned that they will find it “hard” to keep Rodri if Real Madrid come calling, with Peter Reid telling GOAL why more prominent figures are likely to follow Pep Guardiola out of the Etihad Stadium. A summer of change is on the cards, with it possible that a Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder will form part of what could become an elaborate refresh.

Premier League heavyweights such as Arsenal and Liverpool gave Barcelona a free run at Anthony Gordon when exit doors opened up at Newcastle, with Chris Waddle explaining to GOAL why the England international ended up in Catalunya rather than north London. An €80 million (£69m/$92m) transfer has taken Gordon away from his homeland and onto the books of La Liga champions.