Match story
- Japan fired more attempts (15 vs 9 shots).
- Brazil held more of the ball (67% possession).
Japan defeated Brazil 3-2 in Friendlies. The fixture is part of the Friendlies 1 stage in the 2025 season. The match was played at Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo. Jong-Hyeok Kim, South Korea officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Japan vs Brazil meeting in Friendlies with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Japan and Brazil. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
FriendliesRecorded meetings: 3 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Japan defeated Brazil 3-2 in Friendlies. The fixture is part of the Friendlies 1 stage in the 2025 season. The match was played at Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo. Jong-Hyeok Kim, South Korea officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Japan vs Brazil meeting in Friendlies with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Japan and Brazil. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
FriendliesRecorded meetings: 3 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher (Picture: The Overlap) Jamie Carragher can’t understand why Arsenal are considering selling Myles Lewis-Skelly and said it would be a ‘strange’ decision to let the academy graduate leave this summer. Premier League champions Arsenal reportedly offered the 19-year-old England international to both Man United and Chelsea. Lewis-Skelly had a frustrating start to the previous campaign but broke into the team at the business end of the season, becoming the second-youngest Englishman to start a Champions League final when the Gunners lost to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties. However, despite his increased importance to Mikel Arteta, Arsenal are believed to be open to offers after signing Bruno Guimaraes in a £75million deal from Newcastle United. 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. Additional reports suggest that Lewis-Skelly is keen to remain at Arsenal and fight for his place in the team, and Carragher believes the Gunners would be making a big mistake if they cashed in on the 19-year-old. ‘That’s the thing that was a little bit strange about it,’ he told The Overlap Fan Debate with Sky Bet. ‘It felt almost like Arsenal offered Manchester United Myles Lewis-Skelly. Myles Lewis Skelly has been linked with an Arsenal exit (Picture: Getty) ‘It wasn’t Myles Lewis-Skelly saying, I want to leave, or his people putting something out. That’s where the shock came from, not so much the players’ side of it.’ Carragher continued: ‘I still can’t believe it. Obviously, last season wasn’t great for him for the whole season, but when a young player has already put in performances like I’ve seen him put in at the Bernabeu – maybe over a year or 18 months ago, at left-back, he was running the game at the Bernabeu – and then his performance in the final in central midfield against Paris Saint-Germain. ‘You can’t play at that level unless you’re pretty special at that age. All young players have ups and downs. Last season he didn’t play as much as he probably would have liked. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (Picture: AFP) ‘But his ceiling is so high for the performances he’s already put in as a 20-year-old kid. I couldn’t believe that Arsenal would even think about letting him go. It does feel like a strange one.’ Lewis-Skelly, who is under contract until 2030, scored during Arsenal’s friendly win over Como on Wednesday and celebrated by making the shape of a heart with his hands towards the crowd at the Emirates. But Arteta remained tight-lipped about the midfielder’s future after the game, insisting: ‘I’m not going to talk about any speculation. ‘If there is a speculation about our players, that’s a good sign. That means that we attract attention and they’re doing a good job.’ Elsewhere, Arsenal are still looking to strengthen defensively and in wide forward areas ahead of the new season. The Gunners have made a second approach for Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, while the latest reports suggest they have also opened talks to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
It's that time of the year again - the transfer window is now open until September 1 and it's sure to be a busy period with clubs looking to make big signings ahead of next season.
Intriguingly, during talks between Arsenal and Galatasaray during this transfer window, the future of the Turkish side's Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen is understood to have been discussed. Wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri are among the players the Gunners are understood to have invited offers for. Martinelli is subject of a verbal offer worth 45m euros (£38.5m) - but according to sources there is reluctance from the 25-year-old forward to move to Turkey.
Today’s fluff has sought shade As these glorious pages reported on Thursday, Galatasaray wanted Gabriel Martinelli. In the following 24 hours things changed a bit, creating greater complexity, something we do not approve of. Arsenal have supposedly been offered the chance to involve the Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen in exchange for the Brazilian, which could be temptong for a side looking for a new No 9. To further sweeten any potential, Ethan Nwaneri could be chucked into it too to make it a mega swap.Tijjani Reijnders may struggle to find a perfect role within Enzo Maresca’s Manchester City. The Dutchman has already been linked with Nottingham Forest, which has stirred some interest in Saudi Arabia from Al Qadsiah, who are managed by Brendan Rodgers and are willing to cough up £51m for the midfielder. Continue reading...
Arsenal are reportedly inviting offers from Galatasaray for both Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri as Andrea Berta is tasked with making sales. This could also see the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira leave the Emirates Stadium before the end of the summer. That’s according to BBC Sport, who also add that […] The post BBC journalist provides update on six potential Arsenal sales in major clear-out appeared first on CaughtOffside.
After lifting the UEFA Super Cup with PSG, Marquinhos is now one step closer of matching Lionel Messi's record as the most-winning soccer player in history. Marquinhos has once again led Paris Saint-Germain to victory in one of Europe’s premier competitions, capturing the 2026 UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa. By adding another trophy to his cabinet, the Brazilian defender moves one step closer to matching Lionel Messi‘s historic mark as the most decorated player in soccer history. After arriving at PSG from AS Roma in July 2013, Marquinhos joined the club at the dawn of their era of domestic dominance. Now serving as team captain at 32 years old, the Brazilian center back has secured two UEFA Champions League titles and two UEFA Super Cup trophies following Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. By lifting the European trophy, Marquinhos raised his career total to 44 professional titles. The defender won the 2012 Copa Libertadores with Corinthians, along with the South American U-17 Championship, the 2019 Copa America, and an Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games with the Brazil national team, while earning the rest of his silverware in the French capital. With his total at PSG climbing to 40, Marquinhos has now won more trophies with a single club than any other player in history. The Super Cup victory allowed him to break the previous record held by legend Hossam Ashour, who won 39 titles with Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly. Marquinhos of Paris Saint-Germain lifts the UEFA Super Cup trophy. (Alex Grimm/Getty Images) Marquinhos’ trophy breakdown Including the South American U-17 Championship with Brazil, Marquinhos’ trophy cabinet breaks down as follows: Ligue 1: 11Trophee des Champions / French Super Cup: 10Coupe de France: 8Coupe de la Ligue: 6UEFA Champions League: 2UEFA Super Cup: 2FIFA Intercontinental Cup: 1Copa Libertadores: 1Copa America: 1Olympic Games: 1South American U-17 Championship: 1 How far is Messi from Marquinhos? Marquinhos has already locked down the number two spot on the all-time list, passing countryman Dani Alves, who retired with 42 career titles. Unlike the former right back, Lionel Messi remains active, but his ultimate record is facing a real threat of being matched or even broken in the near future. At present, Lionel Messi leads all players with 48 official career titles. The Argentine star reached that milestone by capturing 35 trophies with FC Barcelona, three with PSG, three with Inter Miami, and seven with the Argentina national team, including his 2008 Olympic gold medal and the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup title. With Inter Miami eliminated from both the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Leagues Cup, Messi can contend for a maximum of two trophies in 2026: the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup. Marquinhos, meanwhile, can narrow the gap as early as this weekend, when PSG face RC Lens in the 2026 Trophee des Champions.
Ahead of the beginning of the 2026-27 season without, Cristiano Ronaldo's new coach Ange Postecoglou made an honest take on Al Nassr's trophy hopes: "I don't promise anything." Cristiano Ronaldo has officially rejoined his teammates and completed his first training session at Al Nassr as the squad prepares for the 2026-27 season under new management. However, new head coach Ange Postecoglou was quick to temper expectations ahead of the upcoming campaign, stating plainly: “I do not promise anything.“ Last season, Jorge Jesus was appointed by Al Nassr to snap a multi-year silverware drought, ultimately guiding the club to a Saudi Pro League title. With Jesus now taking charge of the Portugal national team, Postecoglou was brought in as his replacement, tasked with maintaining that championship momentum. Speaking at Thursday’s press conference at the Dar Al Nassr training complex, Postecoglou was asked about the road ahead following a demanding preseason in which Al Nassr posted a 1-3 record: “When we spoke about the challenges, we were aware that there were different circumstances and challenges, but whatever the circumstances, we have to deal with them and prepare well.“ While he stopped short of guaranteeing trophies, the new Al Nassr boss made no secret of his ambition for his debut campaign in Saudi Arabia. “Of course, I do not promise anything, and I have always achieved something in my first season,” he said. “The matter is simply that wherever I go, I love to achieve success,” he added. The captain is back. The message is clear 💛Coach Ange: “The league starts today” 🟡 pic.twitter.com/I8BLGWgPIo— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) August 13, 2026 Unlike last season, Al Nassr will be competing in the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier continental tournament, alongside their domestic duties in the Saudi Pro League, the King’s Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup. Ronaldo’s side missed out on the top competition last year, finishing as runners-up in the AFC Champions League Two, but punched their ticket back to the elite tier by winning the SPL title. Postecoglou and his second-season pedigree Under contract through June 2028, Postecoglou’s tenure with the Saudi club extends beyond Ronaldo’s current deal, which runs through June 2027. However, much of the Australian manager’s famed track record has come during his second years in charge, a pattern he readily acknowledges. During his time at Tottenham Hotspur, he famously declared, “I always win things in my second year. Nothing has changed. I don’t say things unless I believe them,” a claim that has consistently held up. That history of second-year triumphs spans stops at South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, Celtic, and Tottenham, where he ended the club’s 17-year trophy drought by winning the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League. Postecoglou also became the first manager from his country to take charge of a Saudi Pro League side, a milestone he proudly highlighted. “I am proud of where I am working now. I am an Australian born in Greece, and I have become the first Australian coach in Saudi Arabia, just as I was in England and Japan,” he said during the press conference.
Arsenal could be handed a sensational opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen after the striker’s name reportedly emerged during negotiations between the Gunners and Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are currently exploring deals for Arsenal stars Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but discussions between the two clubs could potentially lead to an unexpected move for one of […] The post Forget Alvarez! Arsenal may have just been handed sensational opportunity to sign 59-goal striker in potential swap deal – opinion appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Set to return to MLS play, Lionel Messi has been dealt with a major defensive setback as Inter Miami released an injury update addressing Micael's status. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 defeat against Club Leon in the Leagues Cup, and following their elimination from the tournament, the 2026 MLS regular season has shifted back to being their primary focus. However, the back line has taken a major hit after Inter Miami released an official injury update on center back Micael. After starting Wednesday’s match against Club Leon, Micael was forced to exit in the 33rd minute after twisting his ankle and being unable to continue. Though he managed to walk off the pitch under his own power, Fricio Caicedo came on as his replacement at center back in a match that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for the Mexican side, leaving Inter Miami eliminated from the Leagues Cup in the round of 16. The day after the elimination, Inter Miami released a statement addressing Micael’s condition. “Micael underwent an MRI today, which confirmed that he has a sprained right ankle sustained during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Club Leon,” part of the official update read. While confirming the injury, the Florida side did not disclose the severity or provide a firm recovery timeline. Instead, Inter Miami noted that Micael will begin a period of rest and treatment, adding that “his progress will dictate his gradual return to team training.“ Micael #16 of Inter Miami CF reacts after suffering an injury against Club Leon. (Rich Storry/Getty Images) Asked about the Brazilian’s injury during his post-match press conference, manager Guillermo Hoyos spoke candidly about what losing him would mean for the squad: “Micael has a significant sprain, and we will see what is determined during the medical examination. But it is a significant sprain, and for us, it would also be a significant loss. He is very important.“ How long will Micael be out? Much like Messi’s importance in the attack, Micael has established himself as the anchor of the defense, featuring in every single match for Inter Miami this season except for a MLS Matchday 4 clash against Charlotte FC back in March when he was rested, totalling 22 games. Now, his target return date will depend entirely on the severity of the sprain. A Grade 3 sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear and carries a two-to-three-month recovery period, seems unlikely given that Micael walked off the field unaided. If he suffered a Grade 1 sprain (micro-tears) or a Grade 2 sprain (partial tearing), his recovery timeline will likely range anywhere from one to six weeks. Who will replace Micael? Micael has cemented his status as a cornerstone of the defense while also providing a dangerous aerial threat, evidenced by his recent goal off a Messi corner kick against Atletico San Luis. Now, Hoyos faces the task of replacing a player who has arguably been Inter Miami’s most consistent defender this season. In terms of stylistic fit, recent signing Fricio Caicedo is the most natural replacement. Compared to options like Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, or a returning Maximiliano Falcon, the Ecuadorian defender offers a 6-foot-4 frame and a left-footed profile that make him the ideal candidate to preserve the team’s build-up play from the left side of defense.
Brian Madjo needed only 17 minutes to change Aston Villa's outlook for the forthcoming season. In that time he bullied Willian Pacho, one of the best markers in the world, and gave Marquinhos a fright.
Savinho is pushing to leave Manchester City as Tottenham step up their pursuit of the Brazilian winger with an £85 million offer on the table. The 22-year-old has reportedly made his desire to move to North London clear to City’s hierarchy, with Spurs attempting to complete a blockbuster deal before the transfer window closes. Spurs […] The post Tottenham target takes drastic step to force exit as Spurs make £85m offer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Tap a headline to view metadata and excerpt fields in Sportra, then use the article website button to continue on the original publisher page.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher (Picture: The Overlap) Jamie Carragher can’t understand why Arsenal are considering selling Myles Lewis-Skelly and said it would be a ‘strange’ decision to let the academy graduate leave this summer. Premier League champions Arsenal reportedly offered the 19-year-old England international to both Man United and Chelsea. Lewis-Skelly had a frustrating start to the previous campaign but broke into the team at the business end of the season, becoming the second-youngest Englishman to start a Champions League final when the Gunners lost to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties. However, despite his increased importance to Mikel Arteta, Arsenal are believed to be open to offers after signing Bruno Guimaraes in a £75million deal from Newcastle United. 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. Additional reports suggest that Lewis-Skelly is keen to remain at Arsenal and fight for his place in the team, and Carragher believes the Gunners would be making a big mistake if they cashed in on the 19-year-old. ‘That’s the thing that was a little bit strange about it,’ he told The Overlap Fan Debate with Sky Bet. ‘It felt almost like Arsenal offered Manchester United Myles Lewis-Skelly. Myles Lewis Skelly has been linked with an Arsenal exit (Picture: Getty) ‘It wasn’t Myles Lewis-Skelly saying, I want to leave, or his people putting something out. That’s where the shock came from, not so much the players’ side of it.’ Carragher continued: ‘I still can’t believe it. Obviously, last season wasn’t great for him for the whole season, but when a young player has already put in performances like I’ve seen him put in at the Bernabeu – maybe over a year or 18 months ago, at left-back, he was running the game at the Bernabeu – and then his performance in the final in central midfield against Paris Saint-Germain. ‘You can’t play at that level unless you’re pretty special at that age. All young players have ups and downs. Last season he didn’t play as much as he probably would have liked. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (Picture: AFP) ‘But his ceiling is so high for the performances he’s already put in as a 20-year-old kid. I couldn’t believe that Arsenal would even think about letting him go. It does feel like a strange one.’ Lewis-Skelly, who is under contract until 2030, scored during Arsenal’s friendly win over Como on Wednesday and celebrated by making the shape of a heart with his hands towards the crowd at the Emirates. But Arteta remained tight-lipped about the midfielder’s future after the game, insisting: ‘I’m not going to talk about any speculation. ‘If there is a speculation about our players, that’s a good sign. That means that we attract attention and they’re doing a good job.’ Elsewhere, Arsenal are still looking to strengthen defensively and in wide forward areas ahead of the new season. The Gunners have made a second approach for Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, while the latest reports suggest they have also opened talks to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
It's that time of the year again - the transfer window is now open until September 1 and it's sure to be a busy period with clubs looking to make big signings ahead of next season.
Intriguingly, during talks between Arsenal and Galatasaray during this transfer window, the future of the Turkish side's Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen is understood to have been discussed. Wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri are among the players the Gunners are understood to have invited offers for. Martinelli is subject of a verbal offer worth 45m euros (£38.5m) - but according to sources there is reluctance from the 25-year-old forward to move to Turkey.
Today’s fluff has sought shade As these glorious pages reported on Thursday, Galatasaray wanted Gabriel Martinelli. In the following 24 hours things changed a bit, creating greater complexity, something we do not approve of. Arsenal have supposedly been offered the chance to involve the Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen in exchange for the Brazilian, which could be temptong for a side looking for a new No 9. To further sweeten any potential, Ethan Nwaneri could be chucked into it too to make it a mega swap.Tijjani Reijnders may struggle to find a perfect role within Enzo Maresca’s Manchester City. The Dutchman has already been linked with Nottingham Forest, which has stirred some interest in Saudi Arabia from Al Qadsiah, who are managed by Brendan Rodgers and are willing to cough up £51m for the midfielder. Continue reading...
Arsenal are reportedly inviting offers from Galatasaray for both Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri as Andrea Berta is tasked with making sales. This could also see the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira leave the Emirates Stadium before the end of the summer. That’s according to BBC Sport, who also add that […] The post BBC journalist provides update on six potential Arsenal sales in major clear-out appeared first on CaughtOffside.
After lifting the UEFA Super Cup with PSG, Marquinhos is now one step closer of matching Lionel Messi's record as the most-winning soccer player in history. Marquinhos has once again led Paris Saint-Germain to victory in one of Europe’s premier competitions, capturing the 2026 UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa. By adding another trophy to his cabinet, the Brazilian defender moves one step closer to matching Lionel Messi‘s historic mark as the most decorated player in soccer history. After arriving at PSG from AS Roma in July 2013, Marquinhos joined the club at the dawn of their era of domestic dominance. Now serving as team captain at 32 years old, the Brazilian center back has secured two UEFA Champions League titles and two UEFA Super Cup trophies following Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. By lifting the European trophy, Marquinhos raised his career total to 44 professional titles. The defender won the 2012 Copa Libertadores with Corinthians, along with the South American U-17 Championship, the 2019 Copa America, and an Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games with the Brazil national team, while earning the rest of his silverware in the French capital. With his total at PSG climbing to 40, Marquinhos has now won more trophies with a single club than any other player in history. The Super Cup victory allowed him to break the previous record held by legend Hossam Ashour, who won 39 titles with Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly. Marquinhos of Paris Saint-Germain lifts the UEFA Super Cup trophy. (Alex Grimm/Getty Images) Marquinhos’ trophy breakdown Including the South American U-17 Championship with Brazil, Marquinhos’ trophy cabinet breaks down as follows: Ligue 1: 11Trophee des Champions / French Super Cup: 10Coupe de France: 8Coupe de la Ligue: 6UEFA Champions League: 2UEFA Super Cup: 2FIFA Intercontinental Cup: 1Copa Libertadores: 1Copa America: 1Olympic Games: 1South American U-17 Championship: 1 How far is Messi from Marquinhos? Marquinhos has already locked down the number two spot on the all-time list, passing countryman Dani Alves, who retired with 42 career titles. Unlike the former right back, Lionel Messi remains active, but his ultimate record is facing a real threat of being matched or even broken in the near future. At present, Lionel Messi leads all players with 48 official career titles. The Argentine star reached that milestone by capturing 35 trophies with FC Barcelona, three with PSG, three with Inter Miami, and seven with the Argentina national team, including his 2008 Olympic gold medal and the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup title. With Inter Miami eliminated from both the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Leagues Cup, Messi can contend for a maximum of two trophies in 2026: the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup. Marquinhos, meanwhile, can narrow the gap as early as this weekend, when PSG face RC Lens in the 2026 Trophee des Champions.
Ahead of the beginning of the 2026-27 season without, Cristiano Ronaldo's new coach Ange Postecoglou made an honest take on Al Nassr's trophy hopes: "I don't promise anything." Cristiano Ronaldo has officially rejoined his teammates and completed his first training session at Al Nassr as the squad prepares for the 2026-27 season under new management. However, new head coach Ange Postecoglou was quick to temper expectations ahead of the upcoming campaign, stating plainly: “I do not promise anything.“ Last season, Jorge Jesus was appointed by Al Nassr to snap a multi-year silverware drought, ultimately guiding the club to a Saudi Pro League title. With Jesus now taking charge of the Portugal national team, Postecoglou was brought in as his replacement, tasked with maintaining that championship momentum. Speaking at Thursday’s press conference at the Dar Al Nassr training complex, Postecoglou was asked about the road ahead following a demanding preseason in which Al Nassr posted a 1-3 record: “When we spoke about the challenges, we were aware that there were different circumstances and challenges, but whatever the circumstances, we have to deal with them and prepare well.“ While he stopped short of guaranteeing trophies, the new Al Nassr boss made no secret of his ambition for his debut campaign in Saudi Arabia. “Of course, I do not promise anything, and I have always achieved something in my first season,” he said. “The matter is simply that wherever I go, I love to achieve success,” he added. The captain is back. The message is clear 💛Coach Ange: “The league starts today” 🟡 pic.twitter.com/I8BLGWgPIo— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) August 13, 2026 Unlike last season, Al Nassr will be competing in the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier continental tournament, alongside their domestic duties in the Saudi Pro League, the King’s Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup. Ronaldo’s side missed out on the top competition last year, finishing as runners-up in the AFC Champions League Two, but punched their ticket back to the elite tier by winning the SPL title. Postecoglou and his second-season pedigree Under contract through June 2028, Postecoglou’s tenure with the Saudi club extends beyond Ronaldo’s current deal, which runs through June 2027. However, much of the Australian manager’s famed track record has come during his second years in charge, a pattern he readily acknowledges. During his time at Tottenham Hotspur, he famously declared, “I always win things in my second year. Nothing has changed. I don’t say things unless I believe them,” a claim that has consistently held up. That history of second-year triumphs spans stops at South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, Celtic, and Tottenham, where he ended the club’s 17-year trophy drought by winning the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League. Postecoglou also became the first manager from his country to take charge of a Saudi Pro League side, a milestone he proudly highlighted. “I am proud of where I am working now. I am an Australian born in Greece, and I have become the first Australian coach in Saudi Arabia, just as I was in England and Japan,” he said during the press conference.
Arsenal could be handed a sensational opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen after the striker’s name reportedly emerged during negotiations between the Gunners and Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are currently exploring deals for Arsenal stars Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but discussions between the two clubs could potentially lead to an unexpected move for one of […] The post Forget Alvarez! Arsenal may have just been handed sensational opportunity to sign 59-goal striker in potential swap deal – opinion appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Set to return to MLS play, Lionel Messi has been dealt with a major defensive setback as Inter Miami released an injury update addressing Micael's status. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 defeat against Club Leon in the Leagues Cup, and following their elimination from the tournament, the 2026 MLS regular season has shifted back to being their primary focus. However, the back line has taken a major hit after Inter Miami released an official injury update on center back Micael. After starting Wednesday’s match against Club Leon, Micael was forced to exit in the 33rd minute after twisting his ankle and being unable to continue. Though he managed to walk off the pitch under his own power, Fricio Caicedo came on as his replacement at center back in a match that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for the Mexican side, leaving Inter Miami eliminated from the Leagues Cup in the round of 16. The day after the elimination, Inter Miami released a statement addressing Micael’s condition. “Micael underwent an MRI today, which confirmed that he has a sprained right ankle sustained during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Club Leon,” part of the official update read. While confirming the injury, the Florida side did not disclose the severity or provide a firm recovery timeline. Instead, Inter Miami noted that Micael will begin a period of rest and treatment, adding that “his progress will dictate his gradual return to team training.“ Micael #16 of Inter Miami CF reacts after suffering an injury against Club Leon. (Rich Storry/Getty Images) Asked about the Brazilian’s injury during his post-match press conference, manager Guillermo Hoyos spoke candidly about what losing him would mean for the squad: “Micael has a significant sprain, and we will see what is determined during the medical examination. But it is a significant sprain, and for us, it would also be a significant loss. He is very important.“ How long will Micael be out? Much like Messi’s importance in the attack, Micael has established himself as the anchor of the defense, featuring in every single match for Inter Miami this season except for a MLS Matchday 4 clash against Charlotte FC back in March when he was rested, totalling 22 games. Now, his target return date will depend entirely on the severity of the sprain. A Grade 3 sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear and carries a two-to-three-month recovery period, seems unlikely given that Micael walked off the field unaided. If he suffered a Grade 1 sprain (micro-tears) or a Grade 2 sprain (partial tearing), his recovery timeline will likely range anywhere from one to six weeks. Who will replace Micael? Micael has cemented his status as a cornerstone of the defense while also providing a dangerous aerial threat, evidenced by his recent goal off a Messi corner kick against Atletico San Luis. Now, Hoyos faces the task of replacing a player who has arguably been Inter Miami’s most consistent defender this season. In terms of stylistic fit, recent signing Fricio Caicedo is the most natural replacement. Compared to options like Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, or a returning Maximiliano Falcon, the Ecuadorian defender offers a 6-foot-4 frame and a left-footed profile that make him the ideal candidate to preserve the team’s build-up play from the left side of defense.
Brian Madjo needed only 17 minutes to change Aston Villa's outlook for the forthcoming season. In that time he bullied Willian Pacho, one of the best markers in the world, and gave Marquinhos a fright.
Savinho is pushing to leave Manchester City as Tottenham step up their pursuit of the Brazilian winger with an £85 million offer on the table. The 22-year-old has reportedly made his desire to move to North London clear to City’s hierarchy, with Spurs attempting to complete a blockbuster deal before the transfer window closes. Spurs […] The post Tottenham target takes drastic step to force exit as Spurs make £85m offer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Tap a headline to view metadata and excerpt fields in Sportra, then use the article website button to continue on the original publisher page.