H&W Welders vs Institute in Championship. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 21 stage in the 2026 season. Kickoff is scheduled for 2026-12-19T15:00:00Z. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for H&W Welders and Institute. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Championship
Institute INSRecorded meetings: 5 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
H&W Welders vs Institute in Championship. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 21 stage in the 2026 season. Kickoff is scheduled for 2026-12-19T15:00:00Z. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for H&W Welders and Institute. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
ChampionshipInstitute INSRecorded meetings: 5 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Reiss Nelson has been linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer. West Ham United are interested in signing the 26-year-old, and the two clubs are currently locked in talks over a potential move, according to the Evening Standard. The 26-year-old was on loan at Brentford and Fulham in the last couple of seasons. […] The post Arsenal attacker in talks to leave the club as London rivals push for deal appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Mexico beat the USA, 2-0, before 36,000 fans at Azteca Stadium in Sunday’s 2026 Concacaf U-20 Championship final to qualify for the 2028 Olympics. The victory marked Mexico’s second straight regional U-20 crown in the biennial competition after the USA had won three straight titles in 2017, 2018 and 2022. The post USA falls to Mexico in Concacaf U-20 Men’s Championship final appeared first on Soccer America.
Nuno Espirito Santo is building a new team at West Ham (Picture: Getty Images) West Ham are are putting together their squad for the upcoming Championship season and are looking at some recognisable names. The Hammers were relegated from the top flight last season but have stuck with manager Nuno Espirito Santo, after finishing the campaign on 39 points. There have been some significant departures, with Mateus Fernandes going to Spurs for £85 million, Crysencio Summerville heading to Al Hilal for £55m and Freddie Potts joining Club Brugge in a £10.2m deal. Callum Wilson also departed on a free transfer and gets another crack at the Premier League by joining Brentford. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Experienced defender Joel Veltman has arrived from Brighton on a free transfer, while Venezuela international loan signing Keiber Lamadrid has made his move permanent. Espirito Santo will need more numbers, though, and West Ham are making moves for Troy Parrott and Reiss Nelson. Former Tottenham striker Parrott has been excelling at AZ since moving there permanently in 2024, scoring 30 goals in 59 Eredivisie games and 51 in 97 appearances across all competitions. Troy Parrott has been a big hit at AZ (Picture: Getty Images) He has been linked with a string of European clubs this summer, including Porto, but West Ham are hopeful of securing a deal and have made a bid of around £15m, according to the Daily Mail. The 24-year-old has hinted that he is in no rush to return to England, having enjoyed his time with AZ so far. ‘Before I went to the Netherlands, I was completely focused on England,’ he told De Telegraaf. ‘I dreamed of the Premier League. ‘But once in the Netherlands, I discovered that the football world is a lot bigger than England.’ Reiss Nelson has featured for Arsenal in pre-season (Picture: Getty Images) Nelson is also on the Hammers’ radar as he appears to be surplus to requirements at Arsenal. The 26-year-old came through the Gunners academy and has made 90 first team appearances, but has played just once for Arsenal in the last two seasons. He spent the majority of the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Fulham and last season on loan at Brentford. The winger is back at his parent club and has featured in pre-season, but is unlikely to get much chance to shine in the first team in the coming campaign. West Ham are reportedly exploring a deal, but Fulham and Benfica are also credited with interest. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
The power battle over Vanessa Gold’s shares and the David Sullivan Panorama allegations are overshadowing the start of the season in the ChampionshipThere have been 10 summers of West Ham’s London Stadium tenancy and a number of winters of discontent. As the Hammers kick off the new season on Saturday, a Carabao Cup first-round fixture with Portsmouth is a stark reminder of reduced circumstances, further confirmation of last season’s relegation from the Premier League. The summer has been as bleak as any of those winters, with a number of factors colliding to deepen the gloom of relegation.Certain clubs, including West Ham back in 2011-12 when promotion was achieved at first time of asking under Sam Allardyce, have used the Championship to take a beat, to refresh and replenish. Can this be the case at West Ham 2026? The Hammers are short-odds favourites for promotion but behind the scenes it has been a summer of turbulence, particularly in the boardroom, where a power struggle is being fought. Continue reading...
Fresh off their World Cup run, several key Argentina national team players are on the move during the 2026 summer transfer window, with Cristian Romero, Thiago Almada, and Facundo Medina all reportedly closing in on new deals. Argentina made waves during the 2026 World Cup by storming all the way to the final before suffering a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Spain. Now, key members of that runner-up squad are generating significant buzz across the summer transfer window, with Cristian Romero, Thiago Almada, and Facundo Medina all nearing high-profile moves. One of the defining sagas of the summer window centers on Cristian Romero, the Tottenham Hotspur captain who made his desire to depart North London clear at the end of the club season. Coming off a standout campaign in the World Cup that earned him a nomination for defender of the tournament, the star center back is now closing in on his next destination. As reported by transfer insider Nicolo Schira and ESPN Argentina‘s Esteban Edul, Romero has agreed to personal terms with Atletico Madrid. While Inter Milan pursued his signature, valuation hurdles stalled talks, allowing Los Colchoneros to strike an agreement on a €6 million annual salary through 2030 with a club option for 2031. Final club-to-club negotiations with Tottenham are expected to wrap up between €40 million and €45 million. Meanwhile, transfer reporter Cesar Luis Merlo reported that Thiago Almada will leave Atlwtico Madrid to sign with Argentine power River Plate. The versatile forward, who opened the World Cup as a starter before seeing his minutes drop as the tournament progressed, will sign a three-and-a-half-year contract in a €20 million deal for 100% of his rights, with Atletico retaining a €40 million buyback clause. (L-R) Palacios, Tagliafico, Romero and Almada of Argentina during a training session. (Rodrigo Valle/Getty Images) Finally, French outlet L’Equipe revealed that Bayer Leverkusen reached a verbal agreement with Marseille to acquire Facundo Medina for €23 million plus €2 million in add-ons on a five-year deal. Naturally a central defender, Medina filled in capably at left back following Nicolas Tagliafico’s injury, cementing his status as one of the most reliable anchors along La Albiceleste’s back line. More Argentine stars featured in transfer speculation While Argentina’s collective output fell just short of repeating its 2022 championship triumph, the squad’s individual stars continue to command massive interest across Europe. Although Emiliano Martinez’s rumored move to Juventus has officially fallen through, several other marquee names remain linked to potential departures. The headline story involves Julian Alvarez, with Barcelona making a push to acquire the star striker, who has publicly signaled his intent to leave Atletico Madrid. Barcelona sporting director Deco traveled to Madrid this week to meet with Alvarez’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, as the Catalan club prepares its final proposal, even while Atlético continues to demand his full €500 million release clause. Elsewhere, reporter Fabrizio Romano indicates that English side Ipswich Town and Bundesliga club RB Leipzig are actively pursuing midfielder Exequiel Palacios, with negotiations ongoing. Meanwhile, Mundo Deportivo reports that AS Roma is pushing to sign Nicolas Gonzalez, who returned to Juventus after a loan stint with Atletico Madrid; Juventus values the winger at €30 million, while Roma’s initial valuation sits closer to €20 million. Two additional transactions are also entering the final stages. Right back Nahuel Molina is finalizing the remaining details of his move to Roma, while teenage prodigy Franco Mastantuono, who has already worn Argentina’s iconic No. 10 shirt, is set to join Fiorentina on loan from Real Madrid, with only final contract signatures remaining before the deal becomes official.
The Egyptian superstar has already generated enormous excitement in Turkiye, and supporters are eagerly waiting to discover when they will finally see him in competitive action. Mohamed Salah is preparing to begin an exciting new chapter after leaving Liverpool, but his first appearance for Trabzonspor promises to be unlike anything he experienced during his celebrated years in England. The Egyptian superstar has already generated enormous excitement in Turkiye, and supporters are eagerly waiting to discover when they will finally see him in competitive action. After spending nine trophy-filled seasons at Liverpool, Salah has arrived at Trabzonspor as one of the biggest signings in Turkish soccer history. His arrival has transformed expectations around the club, while fans have turned every training session and public appearance into a celebration worthy of one of the game’s modern greats. Even before making his debut, Salah has experienced scenes rarely witnessed during his career. Thousands of Trabzonspor supporters gathered to welcome the Egyptian forward after he landed in Turkiye to complete his move, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that immediately highlighted his status. Fans followed his arrival throughout the night, with many waiting hours simply to catch a glimpse of their new star. Salah himself admitted the reception caught him completely by surprise during his official unveiling: “I did not expect this reception. It is an experience I have never had before in my career, and I would like to thank everyone who was present and welcomed me in this wonderful way”. New 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞. New 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞. 👑 pic.twitter.com/FoE9qg3POJ— Trabzonspor English (@TrabzonsporEN) August 6, 2026 The Egyptian captain also made his ambitions perfectly clear from the outset. “My goal is to win every possible championship with Trabzonspor, and I will do everything I can to make the fans happy and repay the love I felt from the first moment. I also thank the club president for his trust,” he added. When Salah could finally make his debut Although Trabzonspor has not officially confirmed the exact date of Salah’s competitive debut, the most likely opportunity is expected to arrive in the club’s opening Super Lig fixture against Kasimpasa on August 15, 2026. If he is registered and declared fit in time, that match could mark Salah’s first official appearance in Trabzonspor colors. The club’s opening fixtures include: DateMatchCompetitionAugust 16, 2026Kasimpasa vs TrabzonsporSuper LigAugust 23, 2026Trabzonspor vs Istanbul BasaksehirSuper LigAugust 30, 2026Amed vs TrabzonsporSuper LigSeptember 6, 2026Trabzonspor vs GenclerbirligiSuper Lig The Egyptian has only recently joined his new teammates following his World Cup campaign with Egypt, meaning the coaching staff is carefully managing his integration into the squad. He has already taken part in his first training session under head coach Fatih Tekke, suggesting preparations are progressing as planned. Our new signing, Mohamed Salah, trained with the team for the first time 👑 pic.twitter.com/xNCBoMdLte— Trabzonspor English (@TrabzonsporEN) August 6, 2026 If he is not introduced during the league opener, Trabzonspor will have several other opportunities later in August. European competition could even provide an alternative stage, with the club preparing for its UEFA Europa League playoff matches alongside domestic fixtures. Salah’s possible first matches for Trabzonspor While his exact debut date depends on final squad decisions, the key early fixtures to watch are: Trabzonspor’s opening Süper Lig match — possible competitive debutEarly home matches at Papara Park — likely target for his first appearance in front of supportersUEFA Europa League playoff fixtures — another potential stage for Salah’s first minutes if he is registered in time
Dive into the latest evaluations to see exactly how Ronaldo's championship stacks up against Messi's in the ultimate battle for league supremacy. The Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi debate just leveled up, completely shifting from individual stats to an all-out battle between their leagues. With fresh data revealing a massive shakeup in global league rankings, fans are aggressively comparing the competitive strength of where these two icons currently play. Dive into the latest evaluations to see exactly how Ronaldo’s championship stacks up against Messi’s in the ultimate battle for league supremacy. The debate has intensified because both stars have transformed the profile of their respective leagues since arriving. While Ronaldo has repeatedly defended the quality of the Saudi Pro League, Messi’s influence has coincided with continued growth in Major League Soccer, leaving fans eager to see how both competitions measure up after the 2026 World Cup. MLS climbs while Saudi Pro League slips The mystery was cleared up when Global Football Rankings placed Major League Soccer in 10th place worldwide with an average rating of 79.3, while the Saudi Pro League fell to 36th with a rating of 75.1. The updated standings represent one of the biggest changes seen since the World Cup and have generated heated discussions across the soccer community. According to the latest rankings, MLS has entered the world’s top 10 leagues for the first time, while the Saudi Pro League has slipped well outside the top 30. The results quickly spread across social media, where supporters began comparing the progress of both competitions. According to Kaishi Sport’s latest rankings, MLS earned an average rating of 79.3 to secure 10th place, while the Saudi Pro League finished 36th with a rating of 75.1. 🚨| After the World Cup, MLS entered the world’s top 10 leagues for the first time, while the Saudi Pro League dropped outside the top 30. pic.twitter.com/2L8eVZ7mOI— Kalshi Sports (@KalshiSports) July 31, 2026 Unlike rankings based purely on transfer spending or star players, Global Football Rankings evaluates leagues by examining their overall competitive level and the average quality across every club. Match results, league balance, and consistency throughout the competition all contribute to the final score. That approach explains why a league with several global superstars may still rank lower if there is a significant difference between its strongest and weakest clubs. It also rewards competitions where a greater number of teams remain competitive throughout the season. Different systems tell different stories One important detail behind the debate is that league rankings vary considerably depending on the methodology used. While Global Football Rankings places MLS inside the world’s top 10 and the Saudi Pro League in 36th position, several other organizations produce very different results. Opta’s Power Rankings, which focus heavily on club strength across an entire league, reportedly place MLS around 19th and the Saudi Pro League near 42nd. SystemMLS RankSaudi Pro League RankGlobal Football Rankings (Jul 31, 2026)10th36thOpta Power Rankings (late Jul 2026)~19th~42ndIFFHS (2025, released Jan 2026)40th13th Meanwhile, the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) released rankings earlier in 2026 that positioned the Saudi Pro League 13th and MLS 40th, creating an almost opposite picture. Those differences highlight that there is no universally accepted league ranking.
During his presentation, new Inter Miami star Casemiro filled Lionel Messi with praise: "Messi is one of the gods, if not the god of football." Casemiro has emerged as Inter Miami’s marquee addition of the 2026 summer transfer window, instantly filling the high-profile defensive midfield void the club struggled to replace. Set to share the pitch with Lionel Messi, the Brazilian superstar offered glowing praise during his official introduction: “Messi is one of the gods, if not the god of football.“ Following his starting run with Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, Casemiro opted to join Inter Miami in free agency, providing the Herons with a proven defensive anchor in the wake of Sergio Busquets’ retirement. Although the 34-year-old made his club debut last Saturday, logging a full 90 minutes in a 1-0 road victory over CF Montreal, his formal unveiling took place Thursday at Nu Stadium. During Thursday’s press conference, as reported by journalist José Armando, Casemiro spoke passionately about teaming up with Messi: “I am living a dream to play with one of the greatest of all time. I want to enjoy it, I want to help him continue winning because he is a winner. He teams up with another player who wants to win, who wants to compete. In the end, the margin between winning and losing is always very close, we know that, but we want to compete, and we want to compete.“ Casemiro expressed gratitude to managing owner Jorge Mas and co-owner David Beckham, noting that despite lucrative interest from European suitors, South Florida was his top priority. “I had many options—I had offers in Italy, I had many teams reaching out—but I am exactly where I want to be,” he stated. Casemiro sobre la oportunidad de jugar con Messi: "Quiero ayudarle a seguir ganando; es el Dios del fútbol"#InterMiamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/9Lxx6yGgPI— José Armando (@Jarm21) July 30, 2026 He concluded by placing Messi among the most influential figures in sports history: “I want to enjoy that, being with him, making him win, making him greater; he is one of the gods, if not the god of football. So I want to enjoy it with him and keep winning with him.“ Since Busquets hung up his boots, Inter Miami struggled to replicate the midfield balance that drove their previous championship runs, a vulnerability Casemiro’s presence is expected to resolve. The five-time Champions League winner inked a deal through June 2027 that includes a club option through 2029. Casemiro joins exclusive club to play alongside Messi and Ronaldo During their prime years in Europe, Messi and Casemiro shared an intense rivalry on opposite sides of El Clasico, featuring in epic Barcelona–Real Madrid clashes alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as heated international battles between Argentina and Brazil. Now in the twilight of his career, the decorated midfielder finds himself partnering with the player he once spent years trying to suppress. With the move, Casemiro becomes just the 28th player in soccer history to play alongside both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He is also the eighth former Real Madrid player to subsequently share a locker room with Messi, joining Angel Di Maria, Sergio Ramos, Gonzalo Higuain, Achraf Hakimi, Keylor Navas, Pablo Sarabia, Fernando Gago, and Ezequiel Garay. Complete List of Players to Play with Both Messi and Ronaldo Angel Di MariaGerard PiqueSergio RamosPaulo DybalaGonzalo HiguainCarlos TevezAchraf Hakimi Keylor NavasDecoVitinhaHenrik LarssonMartin CaceresMiralem PjanicArthur MeloNelson SemedoAndre GomesDanilo PereiraNuno MendesRenato SanchesFrancisco TrincaoPablo SarabiaAlejandro GarnachoLisandro Martinez Gabriel HeinzeFernando GagoEzequiel GarayGonzalo MartinezCasemiro
Cristiano Ronaldo's role at Al-Nassr could look very different during the 2026-27 season, with fresh reports suggesting the Portuguese icon and new head coach Ange Postecoglou are preparing for an unexpected shift. While the Saudi Pro League champion continues preseason preparations, speculation has emerged that Ronaldo's involvement may be carefully managed for one important reason that could shape both his club and international future. Cristiano Ronaldo‘s role at Al-Nassr could look very different during the 2026-27 season, with fresh reports suggesting the Portuguese icon and new head coach Ange Postecoglou are preparing for an unexpected shift. While the Saudi Pro League champion continues preseason preparations, speculation has emerged that Ronaldo’s involvement may be carefully managed for one important reason that could shape both his club and international future. The veteran forward remains the biggest name at Al-Nassr after extending his contract earlier this year, but reports indicate the club is already planning how to maximize his influence over the coming months. The latest claims have sparked discussion about how Ronaldo’s career could evolve as he approaches his 42nd birthday. Cristiano Ronaldo helped guide the club to the Saudi Pro League title during the 2025-26 campaign, ending the club’s long wait for the championship and reinforcing his importance to the project. The arrival of Ange Postecoglou has opened a new chapter, with the Australian coach beginning work on defending the league crown while also targeting success in continental competition. The manager faces the challenge of balancing experienced stars with emerging talent as he prepares the squad for another demanding campaign. The coach behind title No. 20 meets his successor 🏆Jorge Jesus and Ange Postecoglou together in Lisbon 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ylvjbNAP0B— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) July 28, 2026 The 41-year-old veteran has yet to fully rejoin preseason after Portugal’s participation at the 2026 World Cup, where the national team was eliminated in the Round of 16 by Spain. The club has already confirmed that the captain is being gradually reintegrated into training following his extended post-tournament break. Reports suggest surprising new approach According to several Saudi media reports, including Al-Riyadhiah and Okaz, Ronaldo is reportedly planning to feature in only around half of Al-Nassr’s matches during the 2026-27 season. The reported strategy is designed to reduce his workload, preserve his fitness and allow him to prioritize his commitments with the Portugal national team as he continues chasing success on the international stage. If implemented, it would represent one of the biggest changes to Ronaldo’s role since arriving in Saudi Arabia. The reports also suggest the veteran forward views careful workload management as the best way to extend his career while maintaining his ability to perform at the highest level for both club and country. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. What it could mean for Postecoglou If the reported plan becomes reality, Postecoglou may have an opportunity to rotate his attacking options more frequently throughout the season. The Australian coach inherited a title-winning squad and is expected to compete on several fronts, including the Saudi Pro League, King’s Cup and AFC Champions League Elite. Having Ronaldo available for the most important fixtures while giving other forwards increased opportunities could become part of his long-term strategy. Such an approach would also allow the coaching staff to better manage the physical demands placed on one of football’s oldest active superstars.
Neymar's future at Santos has been put heavily in doubt after a reported confrontation in the locker room with club youngsters Gabriel Bontempo and Joao Ananias in the last game against Chapecoense. Neymar has rejoined Santos following his 2026 World Cup run with Brazil, but his long-term standing with O Peixe is once again on shaky ground. Following reports of a heated locker-room altercation with young teammates Gabriel Bontempo and Joao Ananias, serious doubts have re-emerged surrounding his future at the club. In the days leading up to his return to action, Neymar raised eyebrows by attending the BSOP Winter poker tournament, the fourth leg of the 2026 Brazilian Poker Championship, while Santos was in Venezuela facing UCV in the Copa Sudamericana. The Brazilian superstar fired back against public criticism over his absence, but the incident reportedly left a sour taste among his teammates. According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, tensions boiled over Saturday during a match against Chapecoense, where Neymar berated youngsters Bontempo and Ananias in the dressing room following a disappointing draw. His behavior at halftime and after the final whistle at Vila Belmiro frustrated players, coaching staff, and Santos front-office executives alike. Things initially started bright for Santos, with Neymar opening the scoring in the 36th minute after a crisp team buildup, celebrating by mimicking a card dealer shuffling a deck. However, Santos collapsed early in the second half, conceding two goals in a 10-minute span before Neymar salvaged a draw late in the match by converting a penalty. Neymar Junior of Santos celebrates after scoring against Chapecoense. According to Globo Esporte, Neymar took an overly sharp tone when criticizing midfielder Bontempo and center-back Ananias, directly questioning the skill level of the young defender, who scored an own goal during the second-half collapse. Through his PR team, Bontempo downplayed the rift, describing it as a standard halftime team dressing-down rather than a targeted personal attack. Ananias also released a statement denying any direct confrontation with Neymar, though he confirmed a team-wide reprimand took place. The incident follows another recent training-ground clash where Neymar slapped teammate Robinho Jr., an episode for which the former Barcelona star later issued a public apology. Neymar and Santos reach a breaking point Neymar’s homecoming to Santos in February 2025 was pitched as a win-win: the forward would stay match-fit for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup campaign, while the club reaped major sponsorship deals and star power on the pitch. But the partnership has proven turbulent, with both sides growing increasingly dissatisfied. Santos management remains unhappy with Neymar’s leadership style and his treatment of younger players. That frustration was exacerbated by his appearance at the poker event on the very night Santos kicked off its South American cup fixture. Neymar, meanwhile, has voiced frustration with the club’s infrastructure and what he perceives as a lack of media protection at the CT Rei Pele training facility. Despite funding ongoing upgrades to the facility himself, Neymar and his father have openly questioned the quality of Santos’ roster as the club fights a relegation battle for the second straight year. Neymar Junior of Santos competes for the ball with Bruno Leonardo of Chapecoense. To make matters worse, Globo Esporte reports that Santos owes Neymar over R$ 90 million ($17.5M USD) in unpaid debts, having fallen up to three months behind on image-rights payments this year. With the 34-year-old under contract through late 2026, a contract extension is now considered highly unlikely by both camps.
Aodhan Doherty has joined Falkirk on a season-long loan as the Northern Ireland Under-21 winger signed a new four-year contract with Blackburn Rovers. The 20-year-old had played 14 times for Linfield in Northern Ireland's top flight before joining the Championship club last summer and made his first-team debut for Rovers against Hull city in the FA Cup in January, before featuring in three league games later the same month. Falkirk manager John McGlynn says Doherty is not just a straight replacement on the left for Calvin Miller, who was sold to Hearts this summer, as he can play as a number 10 as well as out wide.
After the league officially unveiled the full fixture list, the reigning champion has a clear roadmap from opening day to the closing weekend, with the schedule ending in a challenge that could have major implications for the title race. Cristiano Ronaldo now knows exactly what awaits Al-Nassr in its bid to defend the Saudi Pro League crown during the 2026-27 season. After the league officially unveiled the full fixture list, the reigning champion has a clear roadmap from opening day to the closing weekend, with the schedule ending in a challenge that could have major implications for the title race. The new campaign promises another demanding journey as Saudi soccer balances domestic action with international commitments and continental competitions. Every club will face a tightly packed calendar, ensuring consistency and squad depth will once again prove crucial. The Saudi Pro League announced that the 2026-27 season will begin on August 13, 2026, and conclude on May 29, 2027. Across the campaign, clubs will contest 34 rounds and 306 league matches, making it another marathon season for Saudi football. The schedule was finalized after a workshop involving every club, during which league officials explained the scheduling process and allowed clubs to submit requests before approving the final calendar. The league also had to work around FIFA international windows, continental competitions, and preparations involving the Saudi Arabia national team ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Al-Nassr’s route to another title League organizers revealed just how demanding the coming season will be. Only 102 days have been allocated for league fixtures, while 80 days are reserved for FIFA international windows and scheduled breaks. Another 59 days are dedicated to domestic and continental competitions, leaving 43 days available for rest throughout the entire campaign. The defending champion opens the campaign on home soil. Al-Nassr will begin the season against Al Fateh at Al Awwal Park before facing away trips to Al Riyadh and Al Ettifaq in the opening weeks. Early home fixtures against Al Taawoun, Abha, Al Diriyah, NEOM, Al Kholood, Al Qadsiah, and Al Shabab could provide valuable momentum. The first half of the season also features demanding away matches against Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, Al Faisaly, Al Hazem, and Al Fayha. The opening half concludes with a home Riyadh derby against Al Hilal on Matchday 17, one of the standout fixtures on the calendar. The second half of the campaign mirrors the first, with venues reversed. The final hurdle awaiting Ronaldo and Al-Nassr As the fixture list unfolds, one match immediately stands out above the rest. Al-Nassr’s final league match of the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League season will be away to Al Hilal. The defending champion will therefore conclude its title defence against its fiercest rival, creating the possibility of a dramatic finish if the championship remains undecided heading into the final round. That closing fixture becomes even more significant when compared to the opening schedule. Rather than easing into the finish with a lower-ranked opponent, Al-Nassr must travel to face one of the league’s strongest sides in what could become the decisive match of the season.
Brentford striker Callum Wilson says the club's pre-season training camp in Portugal has allowed him to get to know his new team-mates "on a more personal level", as head coach Keith Andrews steps up his preparations for the new campaign. Wilson signed a 12-month contract to join the Bees in July, after leaving West Ham United as a free agent following the club's relegation to the Championship. The forward will provide competition for Brazil international Igor Thiago, who scored 25 goals across 40 appearances in all competitions last season.
Liverpool’s new head coach is settling into the pre-season tour in Chicago as he begins to reshape the Reds’ identityOver coffee in Liverpool’s plush hotel in Chicago, Andoni Iraola presents his theory for the phenomenal success of Basque and Spanish coaches. It is a theory that will shape his entire approach to life as the Liverpool head coach and his attempts to bring the connection, the joy and the belief back to Anfield. It centres on the power of the collective.The Champions League, the Premier League, the Europa League, the FA Cup, the League Cup, the European Championship and, as of Sunday, the World Cup: all currently in the hands of Basque and Spanish coaches, even if Pep Guardiola has since taken his leave from Manchester City. Next season, four men from the small Basque region of Gipuzkoa will manage four of the Premier League’s main contenders, Iraola included, alongside Mikel Arteta, Xabi Alonso and Unai Emery. There is, Iraola believes, a simple explanation for the rise of the guys from Gipuzkoa and for Spanish dominance across a global stage. Continue reading...
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Reiss Nelson has been linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer. West Ham United are interested in signing the 26-year-old, and the two clubs are currently locked in talks over a potential move, according to the Evening Standard. The 26-year-old was on loan at Brentford and Fulham in the last couple of seasons. […] The post Arsenal attacker in talks to leave the club as London rivals push for deal appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Mexico beat the USA, 2-0, before 36,000 fans at Azteca Stadium in Sunday’s 2026 Concacaf U-20 Championship final to qualify for the 2028 Olympics. The victory marked Mexico’s second straight regional U-20 crown in the biennial competition after the USA had won three straight titles in 2017, 2018 and 2022. The post USA falls to Mexico in Concacaf U-20 Men’s Championship final appeared first on Soccer America.
Nuno Espirito Santo is building a new team at West Ham (Picture: Getty Images) West Ham are are putting together their squad for the upcoming Championship season and are looking at some recognisable names. The Hammers were relegated from the top flight last season but have stuck with manager Nuno Espirito Santo, after finishing the campaign on 39 points. There have been some significant departures, with Mateus Fernandes going to Spurs for £85 million, Crysencio Summerville heading to Al Hilal for £55m and Freddie Potts joining Club Brugge in a £10.2m deal. Callum Wilson also departed on a free transfer and gets another crack at the Premier League by joining Brentford. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Experienced defender Joel Veltman has arrived from Brighton on a free transfer, while Venezuela international loan signing Keiber Lamadrid has made his move permanent. Espirito Santo will need more numbers, though, and West Ham are making moves for Troy Parrott and Reiss Nelson. Former Tottenham striker Parrott has been excelling at AZ since moving there permanently in 2024, scoring 30 goals in 59 Eredivisie games and 51 in 97 appearances across all competitions. Troy Parrott has been a big hit at AZ (Picture: Getty Images) He has been linked with a string of European clubs this summer, including Porto, but West Ham are hopeful of securing a deal and have made a bid of around £15m, according to the Daily Mail. The 24-year-old has hinted that he is in no rush to return to England, having enjoyed his time with AZ so far. ‘Before I went to the Netherlands, I was completely focused on England,’ he told De Telegraaf. ‘I dreamed of the Premier League. ‘But once in the Netherlands, I discovered that the football world is a lot bigger than England.’ Reiss Nelson has featured for Arsenal in pre-season (Picture: Getty Images) Nelson is also on the Hammers’ radar as he appears to be surplus to requirements at Arsenal. The 26-year-old came through the Gunners academy and has made 90 first team appearances, but has played just once for Arsenal in the last two seasons. He spent the majority of the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Fulham and last season on loan at Brentford. The winger is back at his parent club and has featured in pre-season, but is unlikely to get much chance to shine in the first team in the coming campaign. West Ham are reportedly exploring a deal, but Fulham and Benfica are also credited with interest. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
The power battle over Vanessa Gold’s shares and the David Sullivan Panorama allegations are overshadowing the start of the season in the ChampionshipThere have been 10 summers of West Ham’s London Stadium tenancy and a number of winters of discontent. As the Hammers kick off the new season on Saturday, a Carabao Cup first-round fixture with Portsmouth is a stark reminder of reduced circumstances, further confirmation of last season’s relegation from the Premier League. The summer has been as bleak as any of those winters, with a number of factors colliding to deepen the gloom of relegation.Certain clubs, including West Ham back in 2011-12 when promotion was achieved at first time of asking under Sam Allardyce, have used the Championship to take a beat, to refresh and replenish. Can this be the case at West Ham 2026? The Hammers are short-odds favourites for promotion but behind the scenes it has been a summer of turbulence, particularly in the boardroom, where a power struggle is being fought. Continue reading...
Fresh off their World Cup run, several key Argentina national team players are on the move during the 2026 summer transfer window, with Cristian Romero, Thiago Almada, and Facundo Medina all reportedly closing in on new deals. Argentina made waves during the 2026 World Cup by storming all the way to the final before suffering a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Spain. Now, key members of that runner-up squad are generating significant buzz across the summer transfer window, with Cristian Romero, Thiago Almada, and Facundo Medina all nearing high-profile moves. One of the defining sagas of the summer window centers on Cristian Romero, the Tottenham Hotspur captain who made his desire to depart North London clear at the end of the club season. Coming off a standout campaign in the World Cup that earned him a nomination for defender of the tournament, the star center back is now closing in on his next destination. As reported by transfer insider Nicolo Schira and ESPN Argentina‘s Esteban Edul, Romero has agreed to personal terms with Atletico Madrid. While Inter Milan pursued his signature, valuation hurdles stalled talks, allowing Los Colchoneros to strike an agreement on a €6 million annual salary through 2030 with a club option for 2031. Final club-to-club negotiations with Tottenham are expected to wrap up between €40 million and €45 million. Meanwhile, transfer reporter Cesar Luis Merlo reported that Thiago Almada will leave Atlwtico Madrid to sign with Argentine power River Plate. The versatile forward, who opened the World Cup as a starter before seeing his minutes drop as the tournament progressed, will sign a three-and-a-half-year contract in a €20 million deal for 100% of his rights, with Atletico retaining a €40 million buyback clause. (L-R) Palacios, Tagliafico, Romero and Almada of Argentina during a training session. (Rodrigo Valle/Getty Images) Finally, French outlet L’Equipe revealed that Bayer Leverkusen reached a verbal agreement with Marseille to acquire Facundo Medina for €23 million plus €2 million in add-ons on a five-year deal. Naturally a central defender, Medina filled in capably at left back following Nicolas Tagliafico’s injury, cementing his status as one of the most reliable anchors along La Albiceleste’s back line. More Argentine stars featured in transfer speculation While Argentina’s collective output fell just short of repeating its 2022 championship triumph, the squad’s individual stars continue to command massive interest across Europe. Although Emiliano Martinez’s rumored move to Juventus has officially fallen through, several other marquee names remain linked to potential departures. The headline story involves Julian Alvarez, with Barcelona making a push to acquire the star striker, who has publicly signaled his intent to leave Atletico Madrid. Barcelona sporting director Deco traveled to Madrid this week to meet with Alvarez’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, as the Catalan club prepares its final proposal, even while Atlético continues to demand his full €500 million release clause. Elsewhere, reporter Fabrizio Romano indicates that English side Ipswich Town and Bundesliga club RB Leipzig are actively pursuing midfielder Exequiel Palacios, with negotiations ongoing. Meanwhile, Mundo Deportivo reports that AS Roma is pushing to sign Nicolas Gonzalez, who returned to Juventus after a loan stint with Atletico Madrid; Juventus values the winger at €30 million, while Roma’s initial valuation sits closer to €20 million. Two additional transactions are also entering the final stages. Right back Nahuel Molina is finalizing the remaining details of his move to Roma, while teenage prodigy Franco Mastantuono, who has already worn Argentina’s iconic No. 10 shirt, is set to join Fiorentina on loan from Real Madrid, with only final contract signatures remaining before the deal becomes official.
The Egyptian superstar has already generated enormous excitement in Turkiye, and supporters are eagerly waiting to discover when they will finally see him in competitive action. Mohamed Salah is preparing to begin an exciting new chapter after leaving Liverpool, but his first appearance for Trabzonspor promises to be unlike anything he experienced during his celebrated years in England. The Egyptian superstar has already generated enormous excitement in Turkiye, and supporters are eagerly waiting to discover when they will finally see him in competitive action. After spending nine trophy-filled seasons at Liverpool, Salah has arrived at Trabzonspor as one of the biggest signings in Turkish soccer history. His arrival has transformed expectations around the club, while fans have turned every training session and public appearance into a celebration worthy of one of the game’s modern greats. Even before making his debut, Salah has experienced scenes rarely witnessed during his career. Thousands of Trabzonspor supporters gathered to welcome the Egyptian forward after he landed in Turkiye to complete his move, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that immediately highlighted his status. Fans followed his arrival throughout the night, with many waiting hours simply to catch a glimpse of their new star. Salah himself admitted the reception caught him completely by surprise during his official unveiling: “I did not expect this reception. It is an experience I have never had before in my career, and I would like to thank everyone who was present and welcomed me in this wonderful way”. New 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞. New 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞. 👑 pic.twitter.com/FoE9qg3POJ— Trabzonspor English (@TrabzonsporEN) August 6, 2026 The Egyptian captain also made his ambitions perfectly clear from the outset. “My goal is to win every possible championship with Trabzonspor, and I will do everything I can to make the fans happy and repay the love I felt from the first moment. I also thank the club president for his trust,” he added. When Salah could finally make his debut Although Trabzonspor has not officially confirmed the exact date of Salah’s competitive debut, the most likely opportunity is expected to arrive in the club’s opening Super Lig fixture against Kasimpasa on August 15, 2026. If he is registered and declared fit in time, that match could mark Salah’s first official appearance in Trabzonspor colors. The club’s opening fixtures include: DateMatchCompetitionAugust 16, 2026Kasimpasa vs TrabzonsporSuper LigAugust 23, 2026Trabzonspor vs Istanbul BasaksehirSuper LigAugust 30, 2026Amed vs TrabzonsporSuper LigSeptember 6, 2026Trabzonspor vs GenclerbirligiSuper Lig The Egyptian has only recently joined his new teammates following his World Cup campaign with Egypt, meaning the coaching staff is carefully managing his integration into the squad. He has already taken part in his first training session under head coach Fatih Tekke, suggesting preparations are progressing as planned. Our new signing, Mohamed Salah, trained with the team for the first time 👑 pic.twitter.com/xNCBoMdLte— Trabzonspor English (@TrabzonsporEN) August 6, 2026 If he is not introduced during the league opener, Trabzonspor will have several other opportunities later in August. European competition could even provide an alternative stage, with the club preparing for its UEFA Europa League playoff matches alongside domestic fixtures. Salah’s possible first matches for Trabzonspor While his exact debut date depends on final squad decisions, the key early fixtures to watch are: Trabzonspor’s opening Süper Lig match — possible competitive debutEarly home matches at Papara Park — likely target for his first appearance in front of supportersUEFA Europa League playoff fixtures — another potential stage for Salah’s first minutes if he is registered in time
Dive into the latest evaluations to see exactly how Ronaldo's championship stacks up against Messi's in the ultimate battle for league supremacy. The Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi debate just leveled up, completely shifting from individual stats to an all-out battle between their leagues. With fresh data revealing a massive shakeup in global league rankings, fans are aggressively comparing the competitive strength of where these two icons currently play. Dive into the latest evaluations to see exactly how Ronaldo’s championship stacks up against Messi’s in the ultimate battle for league supremacy. The debate has intensified because both stars have transformed the profile of their respective leagues since arriving. While Ronaldo has repeatedly defended the quality of the Saudi Pro League, Messi’s influence has coincided with continued growth in Major League Soccer, leaving fans eager to see how both competitions measure up after the 2026 World Cup. MLS climbs while Saudi Pro League slips The mystery was cleared up when Global Football Rankings placed Major League Soccer in 10th place worldwide with an average rating of 79.3, while the Saudi Pro League fell to 36th with a rating of 75.1. The updated standings represent one of the biggest changes seen since the World Cup and have generated heated discussions across the soccer community. According to the latest rankings, MLS has entered the world’s top 10 leagues for the first time, while the Saudi Pro League has slipped well outside the top 30. The results quickly spread across social media, where supporters began comparing the progress of both competitions. According to Kaishi Sport’s latest rankings, MLS earned an average rating of 79.3 to secure 10th place, while the Saudi Pro League finished 36th with a rating of 75.1. 🚨| After the World Cup, MLS entered the world’s top 10 leagues for the first time, while the Saudi Pro League dropped outside the top 30. pic.twitter.com/2L8eVZ7mOI— Kalshi Sports (@KalshiSports) July 31, 2026 Unlike rankings based purely on transfer spending or star players, Global Football Rankings evaluates leagues by examining their overall competitive level and the average quality across every club. Match results, league balance, and consistency throughout the competition all contribute to the final score. That approach explains why a league with several global superstars may still rank lower if there is a significant difference between its strongest and weakest clubs. It also rewards competitions where a greater number of teams remain competitive throughout the season. Different systems tell different stories One important detail behind the debate is that league rankings vary considerably depending on the methodology used. While Global Football Rankings places MLS inside the world’s top 10 and the Saudi Pro League in 36th position, several other organizations produce very different results. Opta’s Power Rankings, which focus heavily on club strength across an entire league, reportedly place MLS around 19th and the Saudi Pro League near 42nd. SystemMLS RankSaudi Pro League RankGlobal Football Rankings (Jul 31, 2026)10th36thOpta Power Rankings (late Jul 2026)~19th~42ndIFFHS (2025, released Jan 2026)40th13th Meanwhile, the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) released rankings earlier in 2026 that positioned the Saudi Pro League 13th and MLS 40th, creating an almost opposite picture. Those differences highlight that there is no universally accepted league ranking.
During his presentation, new Inter Miami star Casemiro filled Lionel Messi with praise: "Messi is one of the gods, if not the god of football." Casemiro has emerged as Inter Miami’s marquee addition of the 2026 summer transfer window, instantly filling the high-profile defensive midfield void the club struggled to replace. Set to share the pitch with Lionel Messi, the Brazilian superstar offered glowing praise during his official introduction: “Messi is one of the gods, if not the god of football.“ Following his starting run with Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, Casemiro opted to join Inter Miami in free agency, providing the Herons with a proven defensive anchor in the wake of Sergio Busquets’ retirement. Although the 34-year-old made his club debut last Saturday, logging a full 90 minutes in a 1-0 road victory over CF Montreal, his formal unveiling took place Thursday at Nu Stadium. During Thursday’s press conference, as reported by journalist José Armando, Casemiro spoke passionately about teaming up with Messi: “I am living a dream to play with one of the greatest of all time. I want to enjoy it, I want to help him continue winning because he is a winner. He teams up with another player who wants to win, who wants to compete. In the end, the margin between winning and losing is always very close, we know that, but we want to compete, and we want to compete.“ Casemiro expressed gratitude to managing owner Jorge Mas and co-owner David Beckham, noting that despite lucrative interest from European suitors, South Florida was his top priority. “I had many options—I had offers in Italy, I had many teams reaching out—but I am exactly where I want to be,” he stated. Casemiro sobre la oportunidad de jugar con Messi: "Quiero ayudarle a seguir ganando; es el Dios del fútbol"#InterMiamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/9Lxx6yGgPI— José Armando (@Jarm21) July 30, 2026 He concluded by placing Messi among the most influential figures in sports history: “I want to enjoy that, being with him, making him win, making him greater; he is one of the gods, if not the god of football. So I want to enjoy it with him and keep winning with him.“ Since Busquets hung up his boots, Inter Miami struggled to replicate the midfield balance that drove their previous championship runs, a vulnerability Casemiro’s presence is expected to resolve. The five-time Champions League winner inked a deal through June 2027 that includes a club option through 2029. Casemiro joins exclusive club to play alongside Messi and Ronaldo During their prime years in Europe, Messi and Casemiro shared an intense rivalry on opposite sides of El Clasico, featuring in epic Barcelona–Real Madrid clashes alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as heated international battles between Argentina and Brazil. Now in the twilight of his career, the decorated midfielder finds himself partnering with the player he once spent years trying to suppress. With the move, Casemiro becomes just the 28th player in soccer history to play alongside both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He is also the eighth former Real Madrid player to subsequently share a locker room with Messi, joining Angel Di Maria, Sergio Ramos, Gonzalo Higuain, Achraf Hakimi, Keylor Navas, Pablo Sarabia, Fernando Gago, and Ezequiel Garay. Complete List of Players to Play with Both Messi and Ronaldo Angel Di MariaGerard PiqueSergio RamosPaulo DybalaGonzalo HiguainCarlos TevezAchraf Hakimi Keylor NavasDecoVitinhaHenrik LarssonMartin CaceresMiralem PjanicArthur MeloNelson SemedoAndre GomesDanilo PereiraNuno MendesRenato SanchesFrancisco TrincaoPablo SarabiaAlejandro GarnachoLisandro Martinez Gabriel HeinzeFernando GagoEzequiel GarayGonzalo MartinezCasemiro
Cristiano Ronaldo's role at Al-Nassr could look very different during the 2026-27 season, with fresh reports suggesting the Portuguese icon and new head coach Ange Postecoglou are preparing for an unexpected shift. While the Saudi Pro League champion continues preseason preparations, speculation has emerged that Ronaldo's involvement may be carefully managed for one important reason that could shape both his club and international future. Cristiano Ronaldo‘s role at Al-Nassr could look very different during the 2026-27 season, with fresh reports suggesting the Portuguese icon and new head coach Ange Postecoglou are preparing for an unexpected shift. While the Saudi Pro League champion continues preseason preparations, speculation has emerged that Ronaldo’s involvement may be carefully managed for one important reason that could shape both his club and international future. The veteran forward remains the biggest name at Al-Nassr after extending his contract earlier this year, but reports indicate the club is already planning how to maximize his influence over the coming months. The latest claims have sparked discussion about how Ronaldo’s career could evolve as he approaches his 42nd birthday. Cristiano Ronaldo helped guide the club to the Saudi Pro League title during the 2025-26 campaign, ending the club’s long wait for the championship and reinforcing his importance to the project. The arrival of Ange Postecoglou has opened a new chapter, with the Australian coach beginning work on defending the league crown while also targeting success in continental competition. The manager faces the challenge of balancing experienced stars with emerging talent as he prepares the squad for another demanding campaign. The coach behind title No. 20 meets his successor 🏆Jorge Jesus and Ange Postecoglou together in Lisbon 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ylvjbNAP0B— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) July 28, 2026 The 41-year-old veteran has yet to fully rejoin preseason after Portugal’s participation at the 2026 World Cup, where the national team was eliminated in the Round of 16 by Spain. The club has already confirmed that the captain is being gradually reintegrated into training following his extended post-tournament break. Reports suggest surprising new approach According to several Saudi media reports, including Al-Riyadhiah and Okaz, Ronaldo is reportedly planning to feature in only around half of Al-Nassr’s matches during the 2026-27 season. The reported strategy is designed to reduce his workload, preserve his fitness and allow him to prioritize his commitments with the Portugal national team as he continues chasing success on the international stage. If implemented, it would represent one of the biggest changes to Ronaldo’s role since arriving in Saudi Arabia. The reports also suggest the veteran forward views careful workload management as the best way to extend his career while maintaining his ability to perform at the highest level for both club and country. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. What it could mean for Postecoglou If the reported plan becomes reality, Postecoglou may have an opportunity to rotate his attacking options more frequently throughout the season. The Australian coach inherited a title-winning squad and is expected to compete on several fronts, including the Saudi Pro League, King’s Cup and AFC Champions League Elite. Having Ronaldo available for the most important fixtures while giving other forwards increased opportunities could become part of his long-term strategy. Such an approach would also allow the coaching staff to better manage the physical demands placed on one of football’s oldest active superstars.
Neymar's future at Santos has been put heavily in doubt after a reported confrontation in the locker room with club youngsters Gabriel Bontempo and Joao Ananias in the last game against Chapecoense. Neymar has rejoined Santos following his 2026 World Cup run with Brazil, but his long-term standing with O Peixe is once again on shaky ground. Following reports of a heated locker-room altercation with young teammates Gabriel Bontempo and Joao Ananias, serious doubts have re-emerged surrounding his future at the club. In the days leading up to his return to action, Neymar raised eyebrows by attending the BSOP Winter poker tournament, the fourth leg of the 2026 Brazilian Poker Championship, while Santos was in Venezuela facing UCV in the Copa Sudamericana. The Brazilian superstar fired back against public criticism over his absence, but the incident reportedly left a sour taste among his teammates. According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, tensions boiled over Saturday during a match against Chapecoense, where Neymar berated youngsters Bontempo and Ananias in the dressing room following a disappointing draw. His behavior at halftime and after the final whistle at Vila Belmiro frustrated players, coaching staff, and Santos front-office executives alike. Things initially started bright for Santos, with Neymar opening the scoring in the 36th minute after a crisp team buildup, celebrating by mimicking a card dealer shuffling a deck. However, Santos collapsed early in the second half, conceding two goals in a 10-minute span before Neymar salvaged a draw late in the match by converting a penalty. Neymar Junior of Santos celebrates after scoring against Chapecoense. According to Globo Esporte, Neymar took an overly sharp tone when criticizing midfielder Bontempo and center-back Ananias, directly questioning the skill level of the young defender, who scored an own goal during the second-half collapse. Through his PR team, Bontempo downplayed the rift, describing it as a standard halftime team dressing-down rather than a targeted personal attack. Ananias also released a statement denying any direct confrontation with Neymar, though he confirmed a team-wide reprimand took place. The incident follows another recent training-ground clash where Neymar slapped teammate Robinho Jr., an episode for which the former Barcelona star later issued a public apology. Neymar and Santos reach a breaking point Neymar’s homecoming to Santos in February 2025 was pitched as a win-win: the forward would stay match-fit for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup campaign, while the club reaped major sponsorship deals and star power on the pitch. But the partnership has proven turbulent, with both sides growing increasingly dissatisfied. Santos management remains unhappy with Neymar’s leadership style and his treatment of younger players. That frustration was exacerbated by his appearance at the poker event on the very night Santos kicked off its South American cup fixture. Neymar, meanwhile, has voiced frustration with the club’s infrastructure and what he perceives as a lack of media protection at the CT Rei Pele training facility. Despite funding ongoing upgrades to the facility himself, Neymar and his father have openly questioned the quality of Santos’ roster as the club fights a relegation battle for the second straight year. Neymar Junior of Santos competes for the ball with Bruno Leonardo of Chapecoense. To make matters worse, Globo Esporte reports that Santos owes Neymar over R$ 90 million ($17.5M USD) in unpaid debts, having fallen up to three months behind on image-rights payments this year. With the 34-year-old under contract through late 2026, a contract extension is now considered highly unlikely by both camps.
Aodhan Doherty has joined Falkirk on a season-long loan as the Northern Ireland Under-21 winger signed a new four-year contract with Blackburn Rovers. The 20-year-old had played 14 times for Linfield in Northern Ireland's top flight before joining the Championship club last summer and made his first-team debut for Rovers against Hull city in the FA Cup in January, before featuring in three league games later the same month. Falkirk manager John McGlynn says Doherty is not just a straight replacement on the left for Calvin Miller, who was sold to Hearts this summer, as he can play as a number 10 as well as out wide.
After the league officially unveiled the full fixture list, the reigning champion has a clear roadmap from opening day to the closing weekend, with the schedule ending in a challenge that could have major implications for the title race. Cristiano Ronaldo now knows exactly what awaits Al-Nassr in its bid to defend the Saudi Pro League crown during the 2026-27 season. After the league officially unveiled the full fixture list, the reigning champion has a clear roadmap from opening day to the closing weekend, with the schedule ending in a challenge that could have major implications for the title race. The new campaign promises another demanding journey as Saudi soccer balances domestic action with international commitments and continental competitions. Every club will face a tightly packed calendar, ensuring consistency and squad depth will once again prove crucial. The Saudi Pro League announced that the 2026-27 season will begin on August 13, 2026, and conclude on May 29, 2027. Across the campaign, clubs will contest 34 rounds and 306 league matches, making it another marathon season for Saudi football. The schedule was finalized after a workshop involving every club, during which league officials explained the scheduling process and allowed clubs to submit requests before approving the final calendar. The league also had to work around FIFA international windows, continental competitions, and preparations involving the Saudi Arabia national team ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Al-Nassr’s route to another title League organizers revealed just how demanding the coming season will be. Only 102 days have been allocated for league fixtures, while 80 days are reserved for FIFA international windows and scheduled breaks. Another 59 days are dedicated to domestic and continental competitions, leaving 43 days available for rest throughout the entire campaign. The defending champion opens the campaign on home soil. Al-Nassr will begin the season against Al Fateh at Al Awwal Park before facing away trips to Al Riyadh and Al Ettifaq in the opening weeks. Early home fixtures against Al Taawoun, Abha, Al Diriyah, NEOM, Al Kholood, Al Qadsiah, and Al Shabab could provide valuable momentum. The first half of the season also features demanding away matches against Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, Al Faisaly, Al Hazem, and Al Fayha. The opening half concludes with a home Riyadh derby against Al Hilal on Matchday 17, one of the standout fixtures on the calendar. The second half of the campaign mirrors the first, with venues reversed. The final hurdle awaiting Ronaldo and Al-Nassr As the fixture list unfolds, one match immediately stands out above the rest. Al-Nassr’s final league match of the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League season will be away to Al Hilal. The defending champion will therefore conclude its title defence against its fiercest rival, creating the possibility of a dramatic finish if the championship remains undecided heading into the final round. That closing fixture becomes even more significant when compared to the opening schedule. Rather than easing into the finish with a lower-ranked opponent, Al-Nassr must travel to face one of the league’s strongest sides in what could become the decisive match of the season.
Brentford striker Callum Wilson says the club's pre-season training camp in Portugal has allowed him to get to know his new team-mates "on a more personal level", as head coach Keith Andrews steps up his preparations for the new campaign. Wilson signed a 12-month contract to join the Bees in July, after leaving West Ham United as a free agent following the club's relegation to the Championship. The forward will provide competition for Brazil international Igor Thiago, who scored 25 goals across 40 appearances in all competitions last season.
Liverpool’s new head coach is settling into the pre-season tour in Chicago as he begins to reshape the Reds’ identityOver coffee in Liverpool’s plush hotel in Chicago, Andoni Iraola presents his theory for the phenomenal success of Basque and Spanish coaches. It is a theory that will shape his entire approach to life as the Liverpool head coach and his attempts to bring the connection, the joy and the belief back to Anfield. It centres on the power of the collective.The Champions League, the Premier League, the Europa League, the FA Cup, the League Cup, the European Championship and, as of Sunday, the World Cup: all currently in the hands of Basque and Spanish coaches, even if Pep Guardiola has since taken his leave from Manchester City. Next season, four men from the small Basque region of Gipuzkoa will manage four of the Premier League’s main contenders, Iraola included, alongside Mikel Arteta, Xabi Alonso and Unai Emery. There is, Iraola believes, a simple explanation for the rise of the guys from Gipuzkoa and for Spanish dominance across a global stage. Continue reading...
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