The Premier League transfer window is open for a second time this summer, giving clubs until Sept...

<p><em>The Premier League transfer window is open for a second time this summer, giving clubs until Sept. 1 to revamp their squads. Seven of the league's best teams have massive holes to fill and the money to do it. Below, theScore offers these heavyweight outfits potential solutions to their biggest problems.</em></p><h3>Arsenal</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Striker<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres</em></p><p>In case you haven't heard, Arsenal need a striker. Their failure to sign one during the last couple of transfer windows has widely been criticized and blamed for the club's second-place finish in the Premier League last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Would Arsenal have been able to catch up to Liverpool had they pulled the trigger on a deal for a top-class striker? Doubtful, but we'll never know. In hindsight, it might've helped cut into Liverpool's lead, considering that Arsenal were left without a true striker when they lost Kai Havertz to a season-ending injury right after the January window closed. But don't expect the north London club to stand idle this summer when the opportunity to strengthen its attack arises.</p><p>Arsenal have already been linked with a host of elite forwards. But now it looks as though they've narrowed their search down to RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko or Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres. Gyokeres is fresh off another strong season in Portugal, while Sesko offers a younger option with tons of potential.</p><h3>Chelsea</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Forward, center-back, goalkeeper<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho, Marc Guehi, James Trafford</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/cropped_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">picture alliance / picture alliance / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Chelsea ended the season on an encouraging note by winning the Conference League after booking their return to the Champions League. But there's still plenty of work to be done to ensure that coach Enzo Maresca's squad can compete in both the Premier League and Europe's most revered club tournament. They've won both competitions in the last decade, but now it's about staying competitive in them.</p><p>The capture of striker Liam Delap is likely to be followed by the arrival of another attacking reinforcement. Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens has been heavily linked with a move to west London, with reports suggesting the winger could cost €50 million. Manchester United outcast Alejandro Garnacho may be an alternative if Gittens doesn't sign.</p><p>Chelsea will also hope to bring Marc Guehi back to Stamford Bridge after multiple failed attempts. Despite Maresca's apparent faith in unconvincing netminder Robert Sanchez, a new face between the sticks is another possibility; Chelsea tried, and failed, to land Mike Maignan from AC Milan earlier this month. Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford is considered a target despite Newcastle's rumored interest in him.</p><h3>Liverpool</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Left-back, winger, forward<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Milos Kerkez, Bradley Barcola, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike</em></p><p>Liverpool moved quickly to address their biggest need, signing right-back Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen shortly after Trent Alexander-Arnold left his hometown club for Real Madrid. Their reported club-record deal for Florian Wirtz is also near completion. So the Reds are already better than they were when they took the Premier League by surprise and won their record-tying 20th English top-flight title.</p><p>Should everything proceed as expected, Liverpool will unveil Milos Kerkez as Andy Robertson's heir apparent for a reported £45 million. </p><p>All they'll really need to enter the 2025-26 season as a multi-competition juggernaut is a greater goalscorer than Darwin Nunez and a left-winger to replace Luis Diaz. Both South Americans could yet leave Anfield this summer. Newcastle United's Alexander Isak is Liverpool's No. 1 choice up front, with Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike as a backup and PSG's Bradley Barcola as a potential luxury signing. Isak, of course, finished second to Mohamed Salah in Premier League scoring with 23 goals in 34 appearances.</p><h3>Manchester City</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Goalkeeper, right-back<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Diogo Costa, Tino Livramento</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/cropped_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Setterfield / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Pep Guardiola has been ruthless following Manchester City's first trophyless season in eight years. He allowed Kevin De Bruyne, one of his most trusted midfield lieutenants, to leave on a free transfer and left underperforming £100-million signing Jack Grealish out of City's Club World Cup squad. </p><p>Kyle Walker is set to return from a short-term loan spell at AC Milan, but he no longer has a place in the team. Guardiola wants to both freshen up his side and reduce the total number of players under his watch.</p><p>With Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Tijjani Reijnders all joining City over the last week, Guardiola has already managed to achieve the necessary turnover. He could angle for a new goalkeeper, and PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma is a candidate given his contract standoff in Paris. If Donnarumma ends up renewing his deal, Porto's Diogo Costa feels like a nice alternative. City also need a long-term solution at right-back after shoehorning midfielder Matheus Nunes into that position this past season, and while Newcastle would try their best to keep Tino Livramento, the reliable 22-year-old fits the bill.</p><h3>Manchester United</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Forward, striker, goalkeeper<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Bryan Mbeumo, Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres, Emi Martinez</em></p><p>Manchester United might not be able to attract the type of talent they need to get them back into the Champion League conversation. After a historically poor Premier League campaign, they're left trying to sign players without the promise of playing in Europe next season. </p><p>After finishing 15th, you could argue the Red Devils need to improve every area of their squad, but more firepower up front is a clear priority. They've already strengthened their attack with the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Bryan Mbeumo looked set to join the Brazilian forward, but now there are doubts given that the Brentford winger has been rumored to reunite with former Bees coach Thomas Frank at Tottenham Hotspur. Manchester United will likely now need to consider alternatives who can boost a lowly attack that only scored 44 times in the Premier League last term. Strikers like Victor Osimhen and Gyokeres could help solve that issue, but their respective price tags present an issue.</p><p>The situation isn't much better at the back, where confidence in goalkeeper Andre Onana has dwindled after numerous costly blunders. Surprisingly, Emi Martinez has emerged as a possibility. The World Cup-winning Argentine appears likely to leave Aston Villa this summer.</p><h3>Newcastle United</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Forward<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Justin Kluivert, Joao Pedro, Anthony Elanga</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/cropped_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Visionhaus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It'd take a huge offer for Newcastle to allow Alexander Isak to leave, especially now that the club's financial situation is in better condition following Champions League qualification. But Isak's backup striker, Callum Wilson, hasn't scored a Premier League goal since May 2024, and youngster William Osula is yet to be trusted with a start in England's top flight. Winger Anthony Gordon also suffered a dramatic dip in form following his red card in the FA Cup loss to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in March.</p><p>Newcastle need to strengthen their attack to successfully navigate their domestic and continental commitments next season. </p><p>It's no surprise that the Magpies are reportedly plotting swoops for frontmen who are proven in the Premier League, like Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert and Brighton's Joao Pedro. The one concern about those players? Kluivert scored 12 times and Pedro netted 10 in the 2024-25 Premier League term, but both players struck half of their goals from the penalty spot. Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga would be a clever signing to improve Eddie Howe's wide options.</p><h3>Tottenham Hotspur</h3><p><em><strong>Biggest need(s)</strong>: Forward<br><strong>Target(s)</strong>: Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa, Antoine Semenyo</em></p><p>Mathys Tel's loan from Bayern Munich was made permanent, and Manor Solomon should be given another chance in the first team after an impressive season-long spell at Leeds United. Nevertheless, Tottenham Hotspur's attack still needs work, especially if Son Heung-min decides to leave the club after an iconic 10-season stay in north London.</p><p>Mbeumo, a standout Premier League forward with 20 goals and seven assists last season, would be an excellent acquisition. Frank was Mbeumo's boss at Brentford for six seasons, which makes the arrival of the Cameroonian international seem much likelier. </p><p>Yoane Wissa, who hit 19 goals and provided four assists last term, could also be plucked from Frank's former club, while Antoine Semenyo's reputation has skyrocketed since he's slotted seamlessly into various attacking roles at Bournemouth.</p>

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Biggest transfer needs, ideal signings for Premier League's top clubs

Paul Pogba is closing in on a return to football.  The French midfielder is in advanced talks to ...

<p>Paul Pogba is closing in on a return to football.</p><p>The French midfielder is in advanced talks to join Ligue 1 side AS Monaco in a comeback bid following a lengthy suspension for doping, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/ceqg47gdpdlo">BBC Sport's Sami Mokbel</a>.</p><p>Pogba is expected to sign a two-year contract with the French club.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Monaco are hoping to complete the deal in the coming days, Mokbel adds. They began negotiating with the 32-year-old weeks ago.</p><p>Pogba hasn't played since September 2023, when he was a member of Juventus and failed a random drug tested after the Italian club's opening game of the 2023-24 season.</p><p>He was provisionally suspended immediately and later received a four-year ban from Italy's anti-doping tribunal in February 2024. His sentence was reduced to 18 months in October following an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.</p><p>Pogba's doping ban ended in March.</p><p>It was later confirmed that Pogba failed the doping test after inadvertently taking a banned substance that normally only has an effect on performance for women.</p><p>The 2018 World Cup winner has been without a team since his contract with Juventus was mutually terminated in November.</p><p>He previously played for Manchester United for six years before starting a second spell with Juventus in 2022.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 19: Paul Pogba attends the "Highest 2 Lowest" red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 19, 2025 in Cannes, France.

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Report: Ex-Juve, Man Utd star Pogba in talks to join Monaco

Luis Enrique sealed his place in history as one of football's most revered coaches after winning ...

<p>Luis Enrique sealed his place in history as one of football's most revered coaches after winning another treble Saturday.</p><p>The Spaniard became the second coach to win the treble with two different teams after Paris Saint-Germain's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3294092" href="https://thescore.com/news/3294092">5-0 victory</a> in the Champions League final against Inter Milan in Munich.</p><p>Luis Enrique joins compatriot Pep Guardiola as the only coaches to achieve the feat in football history.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>PSG won the Ligue 1 title and the Coupe de France to set the stage for Saturday's treble-winning performance.</p><p>He's the seventh manager to win the Champions League with two teams.</p><p>"On my first day at the PSG campus, my French was even worse than it is today. But I said the ultimate goal for me as a coach was to fill the trophy cabinet," the Spaniard <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/psg-have-achieved-our-ultimate-goal-says-luis-enrique-8e3c5f56">said</a> after the match.</p><p>"The only trophy missing was Champions League. And we've ticked that box. We were ambitious, and we did it. It's in the bag and it's coming home with us tomorrow."</p><p>The 55-year-old won the treble with Barcelona 10 years ago before overseeing PSG's march toward winning their first Champions League title to complete a historic season.</p><p>Guardiola won the treble with Barcelona in 2009 before repeating the feat with Manchester City in 2023.</p>

31 May 2025, Bavaria, Munich: Soccer: Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain - Inter Milan, Final, Munich Football Arena, Coach Luis Enrique of Paris celebrates with the Champions League trophy after winning the final. Photo: Christian Charisius/dpa

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Luis Enrique becomes 2nd coach to win treble with 2 different teams

Manchester United are in the final stages of completing a deal for Matheus Cunha, meeting the ter...

<p>Manchester United are in the final stages of completing a deal for <a href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/100524">Matheus Cunha</a>, meeting the terms of the £62.5-million release clause in the forward's contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers, according to<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6298609/2025/05/27/cunha-manchester-united-transfer/"> The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><p>Following discussions with Manchester United officials Tuesday, Wolves granted Cunha permission to undergo a medical and finalize the 26-year-old Brazil international's move to Old Trafford, Ornstein adds.</p><p>Manchester United reportedly hope to complete the deal after the summer transfer window opens June 1.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cunha, recently called up to Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers, was linked with Arsenal and Nottingham Forest in the winter before signing an extension with Wolves until 2029.</p><p>The extension included terms requiring a transfer fee to be paid across three installments, with the full amount due within two years, per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6385533/2025/05/27/manchester-united-transfers-matheus-cunha/">The Athletic</a>. However, United reportedly proposed paying over five years instead.</p><p>Cunha's impending arrival will be the first in what's expected to be a busy summer for United boss Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach is looking to rebuild his squad after a historically bad Premier League season in which Manchester United finished in 15th place.</p><p>Cunha scored 15 Premier League goals for a Wolves side that placed one spot below United, in 16th, on goal difference. He had seven more goals than Manchester United's joint top scorers, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/23312" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/23312">Bruno Fernandes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/163335" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/163335">Amad Diallo</a>.</p><p> </p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Matheus Cunha of Wolverhampton Wanderers acknowledges the fans as he inspects the pitch prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC at Old Trafford on April 20, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Report: Man Utd meet terms of Cunha's £62.5M release clause

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah won the Golden Boot award Sunday as the Premier League's top scor...

<p>Liverpool forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> won the Golden Boot award Sunday as the Premier League's top scorer and etched his name in history with his 47th goal contribution of the season.</p><p>The rejuvenated Egypt international ended the 2024-25 season with a league-leading 29 goals and 18 assists to help Liverpool win the Premier League, matching the all-time record for most goal involvements in a campaign in England's top division.</p><p>The 32-year-old scored against Crystal Palace on Sunday to move into a three-way tie with Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer and former Manchester United forward Andy Cole for the goal contribution milestone.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Salah broke the record for goal involvements in a 38-game season with his 45th contribution, which came shortly after extending his contract in April. It took him another six games to match the all-time record, which Shearer and Cole set during 42-game campaigns.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">47 goal involvements for Mohamed Salah <a href="https://t.co/ZJ6fOR2eNC">pic.twitter.com/ZJ6fOR2eNC</a></p>— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaAnalyst/status/1926682937786859598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Salah finished the season with just one goal and zero assists in his last four Premier League appearances. </p><p>However, it was a much different story in the first half of the season, when Salah burst out of the gates with 13 goals and eight assists in his first 14 games. Another 12 goals over a 14-game stretch shortly after gave him a commanding lead in the scoring race that propelled him to the fourth Golden Boot award of his career.</p><p>Salah previously won the Golden Boot in 2018, 2019, and 2022.</p><p>He's now tied with Arsenal legend Thierry Henry for the most Golden Boots in Premier League history.</p><p>In March, Salah surged into third place in Liverpool's all-time scoring list with a brace against Southampton. He trails only Ian Rush (346) and Roger Hunt (285) with 244 goals in all competitions. </p><p>While he might not catch Rush, Salah will have Hunt's mark in his sights after ending speculation over his future by signing a new contract in early April.</p><p>Salah's form was a major reason behind Liverpool's success this season as Arne Slot's squad clinched the club's second Premier League title since 2020 earlier in May. It's Liverpool’s 20th English title.</p>

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 25: (THE SUN OUT. THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Mohamed Salah of Liverpool poses for a photo with his Premier League Golden boot and Playmakers award after the teams 1-1 draw in the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield on May 25, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Salah wins Golden Boot, equals EPL record for goal involvements in single season 

Dean Huijsen is Real Madrid's newest young star.  The Spanish side confirmed the signing of the c...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192464" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192464">Dean Huijsen</a> is Real Madrid's newest young star.</p><p>The Spanish side confirmed the signing of the center-back from Bournemouth after agreeing to activate his £50-million release clause.</p><p>"Real Madrid and Bournemouth have reached a deal for the transfer of player Dean Huijsen, who will be at our club for the next five seasons, from June 1 2025 until June 30, 2030," said Los Blancos in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>That timelines means Huijsen will be eligible to feature for Real Madrid at this summer's Club World Cup, which begins June 14.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="nl" dir="ltr">😎 DEAN HUIJSEN.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeHuijsen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeHuijsen</a> <a href="https://t.co/OdpKvaHfo3">pic.twitter.com/OdpKvaHfo3</a></p>— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/1923698748955226339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>It's understood that Real Madrid expedited the process to sign the 20-year-old Spaniard after their damaging defeat to rivals Barcelona, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45157968/real-madrid-agree-dean-huijsen-deal-close-alvaro-carreras-sources">ESPN's Rodrigo Faez</a>. Dutch-born Huijsen, who plays for the Spanish national team and has already made his debut for Luis de la Fuente's side, accepted Madrid's offer almost immediately despite interest from various Premier League clubs, Faez adds.</p><p>Real Madrid were eager to send players to Bournemouth in an effort to lower the £50-million release clause in Huijsen's contract, but the English club rejected that proposal. Liverpool and Chelsea were among the English teams interested in him.</p><p>Juventus and Malaga, two of Huijsen's former clubs, will reportedly receive percentages of the £50-million fee.</p><p>Huijsen has excelled in his lone Premier League season after joining Bournemouth from Juventus for £12.8 million, earning a call-up to the Spanish national side during a campaign in which he's established himself as an elite modern defender after making 30 Premier League appearances.</p><p>Departing Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti hailed the signing.</p><p>"He's a great player, young, he has a lot of potential, it's a very good signing by Real Madrid," Ancelotti said during a news conference Saturday. "Every player that Real Madrid signs excites me, because Real Madrid always want to be at the top, and they will always be at the top."</p><p>Madrid are also trying to sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/69665" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/69665">Trent Alexander-Arnold</a> from Liverpool so that the English right-back can join them ahead of the Club World Cup in the United States this summer.</p><p>Benfica full-back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/188452" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/188452">Alvaro Carreras</a> is another Madrid target. A deal for the 22-year-old is expected to cost around €60 million.</p>

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 03: Dean Huijsen of AFC Bournemouth celebrates after scoring the equalising goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and AFC Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium on May 03, 2025 in London, England.

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Huijsen joins Real Madrid for £50M, will play in Club World Cup

Canada striker Jonathan David announced Wednesday that he's leaving Lille after five years with t...

<p>Canada striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/159817" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/159817">Jonathan David</a> announced Wednesday that he's leaving Lille after five years with the Ligue 1 club.</p><p>"I wanted you to hear it from me. After five years with the club, it's time to say goodbye," David said in a post on X.</p><p>"I spent five amazing years in Lille. I know it hasn't always been the easiest. But I hope that my goals and celebrations brought you some joy and happiness.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's been a long and fun ride."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/1gYnRhsoT4">pic.twitter.com/1gYnRhsoT4</a></p>— Jonathan David (@itsJoDavid) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsJoDavid/status/1922653397225701776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>David will be a free agent after his contract with Lille ends in June.</p><p>The 25-year-old has recently been linked with a move to Serie A leaders Napoli, according to transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1921558432110268653">Fabrizio Romano</a>. The Italian club has submitted a contract proposal, but talks are expected to continue in the coming weeks.</p><p>David joined Lille in 2020 for €27 million after two seasons at Belgian club Gent. In his first season in France, he scored 13 goals to help Lille win the Ligue 1 title for the first time in 10 years.</p><p>He's led the team in scoring in each of the last four seasons. He has 16 goals in 31 Ligue 1 appearances this season, bringing his overall tally to 109 goals in 231 games.</p>

LILLE - Jonathan David of Lille OSC during the French Ligue 1 match between Lille OSC and Olympique Lyonnais at Pierre-Mauroy Stadium on May 4, 2025 in Lille, France. ANP | Hollandse Hoogte | Gerrit van Keulen

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CanMNT star David leaving Lille: 'Time to say goodbye'

David Beckham thinks Minnesota United crossed the line after handing Inter Miami their biggest lo...

<p>David Beckham thinks Minnesota United crossed the line after handing Inter Miami their biggest loss with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> in the squad.</p><p>Following Minnesota's 4-1 win Saturday, the club posted a series of Instagram posts mocking Miami, including one that referred to the team as the "<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mnufc/p/DJfY_VyPG2W/?hl=en">Pink Phony Club</a>."</p><p>Beckham, who has co-owned Inter Miami since 2018, took exception to the insult and responded: "Show a little respect, be elegant in triumph," per <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45107850/david-beckham-minnesota-inter-miami-loss-show-little-respect">ESPN</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Minnesota added fuel to the fire by posting a photo of a banner from the game that read, "History over hype, culture over cash," with the words "hype" and "cash" highlighted in pink, Miami's uniform color.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DJfZqDYs9yO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DJfZqDYs9yO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Beckham followed up, saying, "Respect over everything."</p>

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - APRIL 09: David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami CF, looks on prior to the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025 Quarter-final second leg match between Inter Miami CF and Los Angeles Football Club at Chase Stadium on April 09, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

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Beckham tells Minnesota to 'show a little respect' after beating Miami

President Donald Trump said that giving Russia an opportunity to compete at the 2026 World Cup co...

<p>President Donald Trump said that giving Russia an opportunity to compete at the 2026 World Cup could be a "good incentive" to end the war in Ukraine after learning that the European country was banned by FIFA.</p><p>Russia hasn't played a competitive match since Nov. 2021. FIFA and European football governing body UEFA banned the country in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine in February of that year.</p><p>Speaking alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Trump admitted during his administration's first World Cup task force meeting that he was unaware of Russia's exclusion and said that reinstating the country could help end the conflict with Ukraine.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I didn't know that. Is that right?" Trump said, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cpdzd2pqgvwo">BBC Sport's Sean Kearns</a>.</p><p>"That is right," Infantino responded. "They are banned for the time being from playing, but we hope that something happens and peace will happen so that Russia can be readmitted."</p><p>Trump then said, "That's possible. Hey, that could be a good incentive, right?</p><p>"We want to get them to stop. We want them to stop. Five thousand young people a week are being killed - it's not even believable."</p><p>European qualification for the 2026 World Cup officially began with the Nations League in March. There are 16 spots available for European teams to qualify for next summer's tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.</p><p>Russia has played 16 friendlies since being banned.</p>

US President Donald Trump participates in a celebration of military mothers in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 8, 2025.

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Trump: 2026 World Cup can be 'incentive' for Russia to end war

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has until May 26 to accept an offer to coach the Brazilian nati...

<p>Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has until May 26 to accept an offer to coach the Brazilian national team after the country's governing body of football extended its deadline for him to join, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/44951518/brazil-extend-ancelotti-deadline-madrid-standoff-sources">ESPN's Alex Kirkland and Rodrigo Faez</a>.</p><p>The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) chose the date to allow Real Madrid's fate in La Liga to be decided.</p><p>Any agreement for Ancelotti to coach Brazil is also dependent on the Italian manager and Real Madrid agreeing on the manner and timing of his departure, ESPN added.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ancelotti and Madrid president Florentino Perez are reportedly set to meet in the coming days.</p><p>Los Blancos are four points behind leaders Barcelona. The two clubs will meet for the final time this season in a potential title-deciding encounter May 11.</p><p>Real Madrid's season is set to end either May 24 or 25 at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Sociedad.</p><p>Brazil is eager to name a new coach who's able to join in time to select a squad for World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay in June.</p><p>Ancelotti <a href="https://www.thescore.com/news/3276057">reportedly</a> reached an agreement with the CBF on Monday, but further reporting indicated the deal was <a href="https://www.thescore.com/worldcup/news/3277695/report-real-madrid-blocking-ancelottis-deal-with-brazil">blocked</a> by Real Madrid shortly afterward.</p><p>Ancelotti's contract runs until 2026. The 65-year-old is a five-time Champions League winner as a coach.</p><p>Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus is reportedly another option for Brazil if negotiations with Ancelotti fall through.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

Carlo Ancelotti head coach of Real Madrid after the Copa del Rey Final match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at Estadio de La Cartuja on April 26, 2025 in Seville, Spain.

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Report: Brazil extends Ancelotti deadline amid impasse with Madrid

Ipswich Town became the third and final club to get relegated from the Premier League after losin...

<p>Ipswich Town became the third and final club to get relegated from the Premier League after losing 3-0 at Newcastle United on Saturday.</p><p>The Blues were reduced to 10 players before Newcastle striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/91018" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/91018">Alexander Isak</a> scored right before halftime to put the hosts ahead. Ipswich's fate was further cemented after second-half goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/14564" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/14564">Dan Burn</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/182641" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/182641">William Osula</a>.</p><p>The defeat confirmed the club's immediate return to the Championship with Leicester City and Southampton.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's the second Premier League season in a row in which all three promoted teams from the Championship were immediately relegated.</p><p>Ipswich entered the season with hopes of retaining their place in the Premier League after more than two decades in the lower divisions. But despite the optimism surrounding them and their coach Kieran McKenna after two consecutive promotion-winning campaigns in League One and the Championship, the club instantly looked out of its depth and opened the Premier League season on a 10-game winless streak.</p><p>Ipswich registered their first win in November, against Tottenham Hotspur, but their struggles - especially in defense - persisted. McKenna's side went on to win just two of the next 18 games.</p><p>Ipswich never recovered from the dismal run of form, and they found themselves in the thick of a relegation fight from which few thought they'd escape.</p><p>Ipswich sit 15 points back of 17th-placed West Ham and have conceded the third-most goals (74) this season behind Leicester (76) and Southampton (80).</p>

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Jacob Greaves and Cameron Burgess of Ipswich Town confront match referee Michael Salisbury after a penalty is awarded during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Ipswich Town FC at St James' Park on April 26, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.

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Ipswich relegated as all 3 promoted teams go straight back down

All Serie A matches scheduled for Monday have been postponed after the death of Pope Francis.  Fr...

<p>All Serie A matches scheduled for Monday have been postponed after the death of Pope Francis.</p><p>Francis died at 88 on Easter Monday.</p><p>"Following the passing of His Holiness, Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A can confirm that today's league games in Serie A and Primavera 1 have been postponed," the league <a href="https://x.com/SerieA/status/1914235356976730613">said in a statement</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Four matches were set to take place Monday. Torino were scheduled to host Udinese, Cagliari against Fiorentina, Genoa against Lazio, and Parma against Juventus.</p><p>The games have been rescheduled to be played Wednesday, the league <a href="https://x.com/SerieA/status/1914301221193625659">announced</a>.</p><p>The Italian Olympics committee has called on sporting federations to observe a minute's silence before all sporting events in Italy in honor of the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church.</p><p>Francis was elected as Pope in 2013, instantly becoming one of the most well-known soccer supporters in the world. He hailed from soccer-loving Argentina and met the late Diego Maradona twice during his tenure.</p><p>"I think we all now realize he's a (star)," Maradona said after meeting Francis in 2015, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/44779069/serie-postpones-games-pope-francis-dies-aged-88">ESPN</a>. "I'm Francis' top fan."</p><p>He was known to support Buenos Aires club San Lorenzo.</p>

Pope Francis meets with boys who recently made their first communion, on June 16, 2019 at the Camerino sports hall as part of a visit to the areas affected by the August 24, 2016 earthquake in the diocese of Camerino-San Severino Marche.

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Serie A games rescheduled after Pope Francis dies at 88

Lionel Messi might have his sights set on competing at one more World Cup.  The Argentina great h...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> might have his sights set on competing at one more World Cup.</p><p>The Argentina great hasn't confirmed his participation at the 2026 World Cup, but Luis Suarez revealed that his Inter Miami teammate has a "desire" to play in next year's tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.</p><p>When asked if he's spoken with Messi about ending his illustrious career, Suarez told <a href="https://www.elpais.com.uy/ovacion/luis-suarez-a-ovacion-busque-ayudar-a-la-seleccion-pero-no-fue-el-mejor-momento-me-dolio-lo-que-se-genero">El Pais</a>, as translated by <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/44681073/lionel-messi-2026-world-cup-luis-suarez-says-wants-play">ESPN</a>: "No, we do talk (about it). Jokingly, many times, but he (Messi) also has that desire to play in next year's World Cup.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Obviously, after being away from the national team for a while, that desire is fading more on my side than on his, but we haven't talked about it (retirement) yet."</p><p>After leading Argentina's triumph at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as the tournament's Most Valuable Player, Messi helped the South American nation qualify for next year's tournament with three goals in four games during a comfortable qualifying campaign for the three-time world champion.</p><p>Messi will be 38 when the 2026 World Cup kicks off, and will turn 39 during the competition.</p><p>Suarez insisted that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner hasn't told him about his plans for next year.</p><p>"I know what he is like, and I don't ask him anything regarding that," Suarez said. "Time will tell."</p><p>Messi said multiple times after winning the World Cup in Qatar that the 2022 tournament was likely his last. But he has seemingly been open to competing at his sixth World Cup after his move to Major League Soccer.</p><p>Messi was named MLS MVP in his second season in North America.</p>

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - MARCH 09: Lionel Messi #10 and Luis Suarez #9 of Inter Miami CF arrive for the MLS game between Inter Miami CF and Charlotte FC on Sunday March 9, 2025 at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale,Fla.

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Messi wants to play at 2026 World Cup, says Suarez

Andre Onana's Manchester United tenure appears to have hit a new low point.  The struggling goalk...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/40714">Andre Onana</a>'s Manchester United tenure appears to have hit a new low point.</p><p>The struggling goalkeeper was left out of Manchester's squad for Sunday's 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United.</p><p>Onana was replaced by backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/163652" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/163652">Altay Bayindir</a>, who was making his Premier League debut. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/5928" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/5928">Tom Heaton</a> will serve as the 26-year-old's backup.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Head coach Ruben Amorim's decided to drop Onana to give the Cameroon international time to "rest and disconnect" after a difficult week for the 29-year-old, <a href="https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/44652705/man-united-andre-onana-dropped-newcastle-clash-source">ESPN's Rob Dawson</a> reports.</p><p>Onana engaged in a war of words with former Manchester United player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/1741" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/1741">Nemanja Matic</a> before Thursday's Europa League game, saying the Red Devils were "way better" than the midfielder's current team, Lyon.</p><p>Matic responded by calling Onana "one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United's history." Onana then committed an error deep into stoppage time, which allowed Lyon to score and secure a 2-2 draw heading into the second leg.</p><p>Amorim assured Onana he remains the team's first-choice goalkeeper, moving forward, Dawson reports.</p><p>Onana has nine clean sheets in 31 Premier League games and is among the league leaders for the most errors (three) leading to a goal.</p><p>He arrived from Inter Milan in 2023 for an initial £43 million and won the FA Cup with United last season.</p><p> </p>

Andre Onana of Manchester United plays during the UEFA Europa League quarter-final first leg match between Olympique Lyonnais and Manchester United at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais Groupama Stadium.

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Amorim drops Onana for Newcastle trip

The feud between Real Madrid's Arda Guler and Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai has continued off th...

<p>The feud between Real Madrid's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/184826" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/184826">Arda Guler</a> and Liverpool's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/93042" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/93042">Dominik Szoboszlai</a> has continued off the pitch following their clash in the Nations League on Sunday.</p><p>A day after scoring to help Turkey progress in the Nations League with a 6-1 aggregate win, Guler called Szoboszlai "a joke" after the Hungary star's reaction to his "shhh' gesture during the game.</p><p>Szoboszlai commented "1088" to an Instagram post showing Guler's "shhh" gesture, a reference to the number of minutes that the Turkey midfielder has played for Real Madrid this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Guler replied Monday on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/ardaguler/">Instagram</a>, saying: "This guy is a joke. Isn't six goals enough to shut you up?"</p><p>Szoboszlai has played a significant role for Liverpool this season, scoring five goals in 22 games for the Premier League leaders. Meanwhile, Guler has struggled at Madrid, with 21 of his 31 appearances coming as a substitute this season.</p>

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - MARCH 23: Dominik Szoboszlai of Hungary challenges Arda Guler of Türkiye during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A/B Play-offs Second Leg match between Hungary and Türkiye at Puskas Arena on March 23, 2025 in Budapest, Hungary.

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Guler continues row with Szoboszlai: 'This guy is a joke'

And then there were eight. The Champions League field has been whittled down once again after the...

<p><em>And then there were eight. The Champions League field has been whittled down once again after the round of 16 came to an exciting conclusion Wednesday. Below, a collection of theScore's soccer editors review the last-16 action, providing one major takeaway from each of the fixtures.</em></p><h3>Yamal, Raphinha dazzle for Barca</h3><p><em>Barcelona beat Benfica 4-1 on aggregate</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/cropped_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774714/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203979066.jpg?ts=1741723002 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">JOSEP LAGO / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Raphinha and Lamine Yamal assisted each other's goals in the 3-1 win over Benfica on Tuesday, once again proving their connection is as smooth as any in European competition. It's not that they simply look for one another but that their sweeping style of play - which leans heavily on dribbling and finding pockets of space - culminates in a cross or pass through the penalty area that lands in their path. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Barcelona could just as easily thump the ball at Robert Lewandowski and hope he converts from range, but head coach Hansi Flick instead asks his talented wingers to make inverted runs into dangerous areas, and they end profiting off each other's trickery. - <em>Anthony Lopopolo</em></p><h3>Steady Inter a serious threat</h3><p><em>Inter Milan beat Feyenoord 4-1 on aggregate</em></p><p>Simone Inzaghi's team is arguably the least glamorous of the title contenders remaining in the Champions League. But Inter might just be the most dangerous. They lack the mystique of Real Madrid, the youthful exuberance of Barcelona, or the slick interconnected passing of PSG. But what they have, in abundance, is veteran experience, solidity, and robustness.</p><p>The Serie A leaders never looked under any threat in their businesslike last-16 dismissal of Feyenoord. They've conceded only two goals in the entire tournament - the best defensive record thus far - and, with Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, have genuine game-breakers up front. A very similar recipe got them within touching distance of the trophy two years ago. It could carry them all the way this time. - <em>Gianluca Nesci</em></p><h3>PSG finally put all the pieces together</h3><p><em>PSG beat Liverpool 4-1 on penalties (1-1 on aggregate)</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/cropped_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774752/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204011929.jpg?ts=1741734209 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ousmane Dembele and PSG's forwards - along with a dazzling midfield - get most of the attention, but the French club doesn't reach the quarterfinals without shutting down Liverpool's potent attack over two legs. Liverpool besieged PSG's defense for large portions of Tuesday's second leg after Dembele's early goal brought the visitors level on aggregate. But Liverpool's breakthrough moment never came, and PSG went on to prevail after Gianluigi Donnarumma saved a pair of penalties.</p><p>PSG's defensive heroics at Anfield got them to the shootout in the first place. Willian Pacho was a standout performer Tuesday, producing key interceptions, blocks, and clearances. Nuno Mendes also produced critical interventions that were vital in keeping PSG alive in the tournament they're so desperate to win. - <em>Gordon Brunt</em></p><h3>Leverkusen crumble against Bayern</h3><p><em>Bayern Munich beat Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 on aggregate</em></p><p>Leverkusen hadn't lost any of their previous six matches against Bayern Munich. But that was in domestic competition. "The Champions League is a bit more emotional," Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3232457" href="https://thescore.com/news/3232457">pointed out</a> before the teams' last-16 tie. "Emotional control is most important. Five bad minutes, and you're gone."</p><p>Gone they are after losing handily to their German rivals for exactly those reasons. Leverkusen conceded 9 minutes into the first leg and finished the game down to 10 men. Armed with a 3-0 aggregate lead, Bayern struck another two goals while restricting space for Leverkusen to attack. Alonso's side didn't have a shot on target until the 65th minute, by which point the tie was long gone. - <em>Lopopolo</em></p><h3>Guirassy keeps swinging for Dortmund</h3><p><em>Borussia Dortmund beat Lille 3-2 on aggregate</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/cropped_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773198/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198430636.jpg?ts=1741012416 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">picture alliance / picture alliance / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Serhou Guirassy has been the only constant in Borussia Dortmund's seesaw of a season, and his skillful efforts in Wednesday's 2-1 win over Lille ensured his side's continued progress in the Champions League.</p><p>Just as everything seemed to go wrong - a pair of goal-line clearances and a couple of unbelievable point-blank saves unnerved Dortmund in the first half - Guirassy won the penalty that leveled the tie and assisted the goal that won it. He now has 14 goal involvements in the Champions League, the joint-most by an African player in a single season. Guirassy hasn't gone more than two games without having some material impact on the score line, showing the kind of consistency Dortmund have lacked in a year in which they've reached the Champions League quarterfinals while toiling in 10th place in the Bundesliga. <em>- Lopopolo</em></p><h3>Asensio adds extra element for Villa</h3><p><em>Aston Villa beat Club Brugge 6-1 on aggregate</em></p><p>When January transfers work as intended, they provide a critical midseason boost that can ignite a team and push it over the top. Marco Asensio's move to Aston Villa is a prime example. The Spaniard, who arrived in Birmingham on loan from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day of the January window, was largely a non-factor in the French capital for the first half of the campaign, scoring two league goals in limited minutes.</p><p>But his quality has never been in doubt, and he's reminding anyone who might have forgotten about that. The 29-year-old scored twice in Wednesday's second-leg win over Club Brugge, bringing his tally to seven goals in eight games since joining Aston Villa. Asensio, a three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, can bring crucial big-game experience to a club that will now feature in its first European Cup quarterfinal in 42 years. Together with manager Unai Emery, another continental expert, Villa have every chance to continue their unlikely run. To do so, they'll need to defeat none other than PSG, the squad that jettisoned Asensio, in the next round. - <em>Nesci</em></p><h3>Arsenal capitalize on rare breather</h3><p><em>Arsenal beat PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/cropped_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773419/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202729922.jpg?ts=1741124756 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Arsenal's last-16 affair with PSV Eindhoven played out <em>perfectly</em> for Mikel Arteta. With a quarterfinal berth virtually sealed after a ruthless 7-1 first-leg win last week, the Gunners coach jumped at a rare opportunity to rotate his bruised and battered squad Wednesday. Seldom-used loanee Raheem Sterling delivered a solid first-half display in a makeshift attack that also saw left-back Kieran Tierney start on the wing and midfielder Mikel Merino line up as the No. 9 through the middle.</p><p>Arsenal padded their lead to progress with a 9-3 win on aggregate before a difficult quarterfinal test against holders and 15-time winners Real Madrid. But Arsenal's Champions League adventure could get a huge boost by April with Gabriel Martinelli at full strength and Bukayo Saka's expected return. Their Premier League title push is all but over, but don't discount an Arsenal side that could put all their eggs in the Champions League basket. - <em>Brunt</em></p><h3>Real Madrid always find a way</h3><p><em>Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid 4-2 on penalties (2-2 on aggregate)</em></p><p>As Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid approached penalties, only one team seemed like the clear winner. Not because they dominated or deserved to go through, but because they have always come out on top. Madrid, of course, obliged, beating Atletico in a shootout for the sixth time in six attempts. An unlucky double touch annulled Julian Alvarez's penalty, opening up the win for Madrid and serving up an excruciating reminder of their historical supremacy over Atletico.</p><p>It really felt different when Conor Gallagher leveled the tie on aggregate just a minute into the second leg. Atletico often defended with six at the back but still produced the lion's share of chances, forcing Madrid shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois into seven saves. Even Vinicius Junior missed a penalty, which he had done only twice before in his pro career and never before for Madrid. There wasn't much more Atletico could do. But the Champions League is a funny tournament. Sometimes only the tiniest margins count. And Madrid live in those margins. <em>- Lopopolo</em></p>

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Key thoughts and analysis from Champions League round of 16

Sir Jim Ratcliffe spoke out against past mistakes made by Manchester United and defended controve...

<p>Sir Jim Ratcliffe spoke out against past mistakes made by Manchester United and defended controversial cost-cutting decisions in a candid interview one day after fans protested against the club's ownership.</p><p>The British billionaire, who co-owns the team after his company Ineos purchased a 28.94% stake last year, said some at Manchester United are "overpaid" and cited a handful of players who were "inherited," such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/187791" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/187791">Rasmus Hojlund</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/40714">Andre Onana</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/40714">Jadon Sancho</a>.</p><p>He admitted his frustration that United are still committed to paying instalments of transfer fees for the trio and other under-performing players, some of whom aren't even at the club right now.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"If you look at the players we are buying this summer, that we didn't buy, we're buying <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/166123" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/166123">Antony</a>, we're buying <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/17430" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/17430">Casemiro</a>, we're buying Onana, we're buying Hojlund, we're buying Sancho," Ratcliffe said, according to the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c7571gng06wo">BBC Sport's Dan Roan</a>. </p><p>"These are all things from the past, whether we like it or not, we've inherited those things and have to sort that out."</p><p>He continued: "For Sancho, who now plays for Chelsea (on loan), and we pay half his wages, we're paying £17 million to buy him in the summer."</p><p>Antony, who's on loan at Real Betis, is perhaps the most polarizing of the players Ratcliffe highlighted. The Brazilian struggled after joining for €100 million from Ajax in 2022, scoring just 12 goals in 96 games.</p><p>When asked if he thought the players in question were inadequate, Ratcliffe said: "Some are not good enough and some probably are overpaid, but for us to mold the squad that we are fully responsible for, and accountable for, will take time.</p><p>"We've got this period of transformation where we move from the past to the future."</p><h3>Unapologetic over staff cuts</h3><p>There's been an overhaul behind the scenes in recent months, which has resulted in staff reductions due to financial reasons. But Ratcliffe was unapologetic over decisions to make 450 of the club's 1,140-person staff redundant.</p><p>Ratcliffe highlighted one dismissal in particular, telling <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/da014943-e702-4f1e-b84a-da2012e6b05e?shareToken=40ffa19ad1102c9094840b48b1808fab">The Times' Matt Lawton</a>: "We found out we even had a body language consultant on £175,000 a year."</p><p>Even legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson wasn't safe from the cost-cutting measures after his £2-million consultancy contract was ended.</p><p>"(Ferguson was) maybe a little bit grumpy at the beginning, but he got it, and he came back three days later, after talking to his son, and said, 'Fine, I'm going to step away from it. My decision.' I think it reflects really well on Alex because he put the club before himself."</p><p>The move was widely criticized. It was one of a number of stories that have come to light in recent months about the club's quest to become financially viable.</p><p>Job cuts are part of the reason why thousands of United supporters protested against the club's ownership, including the Glazer family, before Sunday's draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford. Rising ticket prices and the team's poor performances this season were other reasons for the pre-arranged demonstration.</p><p>But Ratcliffe defended all of the decisions as necessary for the club to overcome past mistakes.</p><p>"I know it's unpopular, and this period of change is uncomfortable for people, and some of the decisions we have to make are unpleasant," he told BBC's Roan.</p><p>"But they are necessary to put Manchester United back on to a stable footing. If people want to see Manchester United winning trophies again, then we have do all this stuff."</p><p>Ratcliffe added: "Manchester United would have run out of cash by the end of this year - by the end of 2025 - after having me put $300 million (£232.72 million) in and if we buy no new players in the summer.</p><p>"We are in the process of change, and it's an uncomfortable period and disruptive, and I do feel sympathy with the fans.</p><p>"The simple answer is the club runs out of money at Christmas if we don't do those things."</p><p>Manchester United are likely to experience further financial inconveniences this season for failing to qualify for any European competition next season. The club sits 14th in the Premier League with 10 games remaining.</p><p>Ratcliffe added that he thinks Ruben Amorim, who was hired after Erik ten Hag was dismissed earlier this season, is doing a "really good job" despite facing difficult circumstances and that the Portuguese coach will in charge "for a long time."</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 10: Rasmus Hojlund, Antony of Manchester United arrives ahead of the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Leicester City FC at Old Trafford on November 10, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Ratcliffe laments 'overpaid,' inadequate Man Utd players in candid interview

The World Cup could be set to expand again.  FIFA says it'll review a proposal to increase the nu...

<p>The World Cup could be set to expand again.</p><p>FIFA says it'll review a proposal to increase the number of nations competing at the 2030 World Cup from 48 to 64 teams as a one-off to mark the tournament's centenary.</p><p>"A proposal to analyze a 64-team FIFA World Cup to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup in 2030 was spontaneously raised by a FIFA Council member in the 'miscellaneous' agenda item near the end of the FIFA Council meeting held on March 5, 2025," a FIFA spokesperson told <a href="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/fifa-consider-one-off-expansion-64-teams-2030-world-cup-nyt-2025-03-06/">Reuters</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The idea was acknowledged as FIFA has a duty to analyze any proposal from one of its council members."</p><p>The 2030 World Cup will be primarily played in Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. However, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, where the tournament's first edition was staged 100 years ago, will host three games.</p><p>The marquee competition already expanded from 32 to 48 teams for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.</p><p>A delegate from Uruguay, Ignacio Alonso, submitted the proposal, which left some FIFA delegates in "stunned silence," according to a report from <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/06/world/europe/fifa-world-cup-64-teams.html">The Athletic</a>.</p><p>One unidentified football official hoped the "maddening" proposal would be "rejected as soon as possible," reports <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/acbe5dc4-47dc-4974-b85f-220d5281717c?shareToken=ca65b097d49610a448d3774d80c3f40a">Martyn Ziegler of The Times</a>.</p><p>If successful, expanding to 64 teams would result in at least 128 matches at the 2030 World Cup. The 2022 World Cup had 64 contests, and the 2026 tourney will have 104 games.</p><p>There are also concerns about the environmental impact and possible logistical challenges that an expanded tournament will have.</p><p>FIFA president Gianni Infantino "acknowledged the proposal and said it should be analyzed more closely," The Athletic added.</p>

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - DECEMBER 18: Lionel Messi of Argentina gestures before receiving the FIFA World Cup trophy from FIFA President Gianni Infantino as Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar looks on during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.

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FIFA considering proposal to expand 2030 World Cup to 64 teams

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi admitted that he didn't always enjoy playing for Paris Saint-Germai...

<p>Inter Miami star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> admitted that he didn't always enjoy playing for Paris Saint-Germain, saying he "wasn't happy on a daily basis" during his two-year spell in the French capital.</p><p>"Coming to play for Inter Miami was an opportunity, and the way things developed during my last years in Paris, although it was a decision that I had to make on the go because I had to leave Barcelona, those two years were not enjoyable for me," Messi said in a recent interview with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VC-lJrNaQH4&amp;t=85s">Apple Music's Zane Lowe</a>.</p><p>"I wasn't happy on a daily basis, with the trainings, the matches. I had a hard time adapting to all that. I felt called to come to Inter (Miami) because it's a club that's growing, very new, with few years as a club."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Messi spent 21 years with Barcelona, but financial complications with the club led to his surprising departure for PSG on a free transfer in 2021. There, he compiled 32 goals and 35 assists in 76 appearances, and the club won Ligue 1 during both of his seasons in France's top flight.</p><p>Messi left PSG following the 2023 season to join MLS side Inter Miami, where he made an instant impact by helping the club win the Leagues Cup.</p><p>Messi said in June 2023 that there was a "fracture" in his relationship with PSG fans. His former teammate Neymar also said that the Argentine "lived through hell" during their time together in France.</p><p>Last year, PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi accused Messi of lacking "respect" for the club after he departed.</p>

PARIS, FRANCE - APRIL 02: Lionel Messi of PSG during the Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique Lyon at Parc des Princes on April 02, 2023 in Paris, France.

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Messi 'wasn't happy on a daily basis' at PSG

Erling Haaland was left out of Manchester City's squad for Sunday's match against Liverpool due t...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> was left out of Manchester City's squad for Sunday's match against Liverpool due to a lingering knee injury.</p><p>Manchester City were beaten 2-0 by the Premier League leaders at the Etihad Stadium.</p><p>The Norwegian striker got hurt during City's 4-0 victory over Newcastle United last weekend.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The knee issue also kept Haaland out of Manchester City's loss at Real Madrid in the Champions League last Wednesday even though he was named to the bench.</p><p>The 24-year-old has 19 goals in 25 Premier League games this season.</p><p>He trails Mohamed Salah, who scored in Sunday's match, by six goals in the race for the Golden Boot.</p>

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 19: Erling Haaland of Manchester City during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between Real Madrid C.F. and Manchester City at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 19, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

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Man City's Haaland misses loss vs. Liverpool due to lingering knee issue

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Anthony Lopopolo

News Editor

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Daniel Rouse

Senior News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/gordon-brunt/content_cards

Gordon Brunt

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