Chayka · Second League - Group 4 · Midfielder · #0 · Russia · 22 yrs
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The 2026 World Cup will be missing several of global soccer's biggest stars, enough to construct an incredibly elite Absent XI watching from home. The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be an unprecedented, historic spectacle. For the first time, 48 teams will compete across three host nations—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—chasing the ultimate glory in soccer history. The tournament in North America is ready to welcome icons of the game like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lamine Yamal, and Kylian Mbappe. Yet, a striking list of world-class talent will be noticeably missing from the pitch this summer. For some, an agonizingly timed injury shattered their World Cup dreams, as seen with Brazil’s Eder Militao and Rodrygo, or Germany’s Serge Gnabry. For others, the omission comes down to strict, high-stakes managerial decisions. Powerhouse nations boast such intense roster competition that managers have ruthlessly left behind star names, highlighted by Thomas Tuchel’s shocking decisions to omit Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold from England’s final 26-man squad. Trent Alexander-Arnold of England. (Getty Images) The 2026 World Cup Absent XI Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy): Despite racking up 64 caps and an Euros trophy for his country, the Manchester City star will incredibly miss his third consecutive World Cup after Italy once again failed to qualify. Defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold (England): In one of the most controversial roster cuts of the year, England boss Thomas Tuchel opted to leave the elite playmaker out of his tactical plans for North America.Harry Maguire (England): Another high-profile casualty of Tuchel’s defensive overhaul for the Three Lions.Matthijs de Ligt (Netherlands): The Manchester United center-back was forced to accept defeat and miss the tournament entirely after undergoing corrective back surgery in mid-May.Marcos Acuña (Argentina): A 2022 World Cup winner who will not be defending the crown, having been entirely excluded from Lionel Scaloni’s highly competitive squad. Midfielders Sandro Tonali (Italy): Much like his compatriot Donnarumma, the dynamic Newcastle midfielder is trapped on the outside looking in due to Italy’s qualification failure.Eduardo Camavinga (France): In a testament to France’s terrifying midfield depth, the Real Madrid star was left out of Didier Deschamps’ final World Cup squad selection.Cole Palmer (England): Perhaps the most shocking tactical omission in the World Cup. Despite a sensational club season, Palmer was left off England’s flight to the United States by Tuchel. Forwards Rodrygo (Brazil): The Seleção frontline takes a massive hit as the Real Madrid winger was officially ruled out due to a late physical injury.Robert Lewandowski (Poland): The legendary striker misses out on one final World Cup run after Poland suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Sweden in the UEFA playoff final.Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia): The PSG star won’t bring his signature flair to North America, as Georgia was unable to navigate the brutal European qualifying cycles.
After establishing himself among Europe's elite, the Paris Saint-Germain winger appeared destined to shine on soccer's biggest stage. Instead, he will be forced to watch from afar as the world's leading national team competes for the most prestigious trophy in the sport. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, several of soccer’s biggest stars are preparing for what could be defining moments in their careers. Yet one of the game’s most exciting attacking talents, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, will not be among those taking center stage when the tournament begins in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The absence comes as a surprise to many casual fans, given the extraordinary campaign Kvaratskhelia has just completed. After establishing himself among Europe’s elite, the Paris Saint-Germain winger appeared destined to shine on soccer’s biggest stage. Instead, he will be forced to watch from afar as the world’s leading national team competes for the most prestigious trophy in the sport. In fact, the 2025-26 campaign may go down as the finest season of Kvaratskhelia’s career so far. The Georgian forward enjoyed remarkable success with the Parisians and further strengthened his reputation as one of the most dangerous wingers at the moment. After completing a high-profile move from Napoli to PSG in January 2025, Kvaratskhelia quickly became one of the key figures in Luis Enrique’s squad. He helped PSG win Ligue 1, captured the UEFA Champions League title, and was named the Champions League Player of the Season. He registered 10 goals and six assists in 16 Champions League appearances while also contributing eight goals and four assists in Ligue 1. The winger also achieved a unique milestone by becoming the first player in Champions League history to record either a goal or an assist in seven consecutive knockout-stage matches. His influence was particularly evident during PSG’s run to European glory, where he consistently delivered in the biggest moments. Why isn’t Kvaratskhelia playing at the World Cup? Despite all of his club success, Kvaratskhelia’s World Cup dream has been halted by circumstances beyond his control. The reason for his absence is that Georgia failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While many of soccer’s traditional powers successfully secured places at the expanded 48-team tournament, Georgia could not navigate a difficult qualifying campaign. The nation that captured the imagination of fans during Euro 2024 was unable to repeat that success on the road to North America. Kvaratskhelia did his part during qualification, scoring six important goals in 12 games and attempting to inspire his country. However, Georgia struggled for consistency throughout the campaign and ultimately fell short of securing either automatic qualification or a playoff route. 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group E The disappointment is particularly painful considering how much excitement Willy Sagnol’s side generated during its historic appearance at Euro 2024. That tournament marked the nation’s first major international competition, and Kvaratskhelia was the driving force behind a memorable run to the knockout rounds. Georgia’s qualification campaign falls short The qualifying group proved challenging for the Georgian national team. Despite flashes of promise, results simply did not go their way often enough. Georgia finished behind Spain and Turkey in its qualifying section, leaving the national team without a ticket to the World Cup. Several disappointing defeats proved costly, including a heavy loss away from home that effectively ended hopes of qualification. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Georgia gestures during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers Many observers felt Kvaratskhelia carried an enormous burden throughout the campaign. While Georgia possesses several talented players, few can match the PSG star’s ability to decide matches on his own. His dazzling dribbling, creativity, and eye for goal frequently kept Ge
Despite being one of the best players of the season, Lamine Yamal lost the Ballon d’Or award to Ousmane Dembélé, surprising everyone. After this, the 18-year-old star made a curious reflection on not having won it, seeing it as a boost for his career. At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has managed to become one of the best players in the world, shining with Barcelona. Despite being one of the standout performers of the season, he lost the Ballon d’Or award to Ousmane Dembélé, surprising all the fans. Far from being discouraged by this setback, the 18-year-old star showed great maturity, reflecting on it and using the defeat to push himself toward his best version. “I thought I was going to win it that day, but because of many things that happened that day, I think it was very good that Dembélé won it. Also, for my personal growth, it wasn’t the right moment for me to win it because I was very young and I wouldn’t have appreciated what it means to win a Ballon d’Or. In addition, I get along very well with Ousmane… It helped me get back up as I wasn’t in a good moment and matured a lot,” Lamine said on his Youtube channel. Even though Lamine Yamal did not win the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, he significantly improved his numbers in the current season. After playing 45 matches, he has managed to score 24 goals and provide 18 assists, ranking among the most productive players in the world. However, failing to win Europe’s top competition with the Blaugrana appears to be reducing his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. Despite suffering four injuries during the current season, Lamine managed to overcome these setbacks, showing great mental strength. In addition, he became Barcelona’s creative focal point amid the absences of Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski’s drop in form. For this reason, he arrives at the 2026 World Cup in top shape, aiming to prove his ability with Spain and lead them to the title after 16 years. Lamine Yamal of Spain looks on during the UEFA Nations League 2025. Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or hopes may hinge on 2026 World Cup Throughout the 2025–26 season, Lamine Yamal has indeed been among the most productive players. However, PSG’s UEFA Champions League victory gives Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia a significant advantage in the race for the Ballon d’Or. Alongside them, Harry Kane could also emerge as another clear favorite. With this in mind, the 18-year-old star’s chances of winning the award could depend on the 2026 World Cup. Not having won the UEFA Champions League, Lamine is not the clear favorite to win the Ballon d’Or. Despite this, he could change everything if he emerges as the tournament’s top scorer or wins the trophy for Spain, as that could push him to lead the race. With the Georgian not featuring in the World Cup, only a victory for England or France in the tournament could distance him from the award, as his impact at Barcelona has already made it clear that he deserves to win it.
From Donnarumma to Kvaratskhelia, this all-star team, with a maximum of two players per country, all have the summer offThe 27-year-old Italy captain is widely considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world. After moving to Manchester City, he has quickly adapted to the Premier League demands for ball-playing, a skill he honed at Paris Saint-Germain. Despite his Euro 2020 penalty-saving heroics, Donnarumma failed to stop a single one against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Azzurri’s crunch World Cup playoff. Continue reading...
Fikre: Yes, they need to upgrade their left wing position to another level by signing elite wingers like; Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Rafael Leao, or Morgan Rogers. Dan: Even though I loved Martinelli when he first came on the scene, his form has dropped massively and I think we should cash in and get a winger that will get us goals, assists and get us to the next level. Spragga: From what is realistically available I'd say Nico Williams, Vinicius Junior and possibly Marcus Rashford.
Following Mohamed Salah's departure, Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on Yan Diomande as their top target. However, the Ivorian young star has decided to acknowledge his fondness for PSG, offering key clues about his professional future and nearing Luis Enrique’s team. After a successful nine-year career, Mohamed Salah has decided to leave Liverpool at the end of the season. As a result, they appear determined to strengthen the roster, seeking a notable attacking impact. Yan Diomande is reportedly being targeted as the Reds’ main objective. However, the Ivorian star has dealt a blow to the English side by acknowledging his support for PSG and giving an indication of his professional future. According to The Athletic, both Paris Saint-Germain FC and Liverpool are pursuing the signing of Yan Diomande. In his first season with RB Leipzig, he has managed to become as an undisputed starter. In 36 matches, he has scored 13 goals and provided 10 assists. With a contract until 2030, he could be transferred for €130 million, a figure that both clubs could reach. Despite this, the French side appears to have a significant advantage. “PSG is a team I have loved since I was a child. My father supports PSG, and it is a team I admire as a soccer fan… It would be a pleasure for me to come and play here with one of the biggest clubs. It is always a pleasure to come here because, with French being spoken, I think adapting would not be difficult. But why not? I do not think I am looking toward the future or focusing on anything else. As I have said, I remain focused on the World Cup,” Diomande said, via Téléfoot. With the 2026 World Cup only a few weeks away, Yan Diomande could become one of the best players in the tournament. If he does so, the 19-year-old star could see his transfer value rise even further. While the French side has a significant advantage in the race for his signature, they may first need to sell some stars, as Yan might not be an immediate starter. As a result, Liverpool could attempt to pursue his signing by offering him a more prominent role. Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig gestures during the Bundesliga match. Yan Diomande could be a starter at Liverpool but a substitute at PSG Yan Diomande has managed to become one of the most promising players in the world. Despite this, the 19-year-old star might not be a starter at PSG. Head coach Luis Enrique has the trio of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué at his disposal. With all three being undisputed starters, the Ivorian would have a secondary role, even though Bradley Barcola could leave. This is very different from his situation if he signs for Liverpool. While the French side would need to transfer Bradley Barcola to make room for Yan Diomande, Liverpool would make him an undisputed starter. With Salah’s departure, the Reds do not have a guaranteed right winger, making the Ivorian a key addition. Furthermore, they would not need to make room for him in the roster, as he would be one of the team’s only dribbling wingers, ensuring that he can shine in the Premier League.
Paris Saint-Germain won the Champions League over Arsenal in a dramatic penalty shootout. In a final that had all the tension possible, Paris Saint-Germain ended up winning the Champions League over Arsenal in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw following extra time. It was logical that there would not be the same kind of difference as last year, when Paris Saint-Germain beat Inter 5-0 in the final. This was much different, to the point that they had to come from behind after Havertz gave Arsenal the lead in the opening minutes with a great goal. In the second half, Paris Saint-Germain continued pushing until Kvaratskhelia was brought down by Mosquera in the box for a penalty that Dembélé converted to level the score. Not much happened after that and they finished tied. With key players being substituted on both teams because of how tired they were, not much was left in action, so they went to penalties. In the shootout, Eze missed for Arsenal and Nuno Mendes missed for PSG. The series continued with PSG leading 4-3, and Arsenal needed to score their final kick to stay alive, but Magalhães sent his effort high over the crossbar, and Paris Saint-Germain won the Champions League.
The World Cup is about to see many of the Paris Saint-Germain players who won the Champions League over Arsenal. The Champions League is over after a dramatic final, so now it is time for the World Cup. With Paris Saint-Germain winning the title for the second consecutive time as they beat Arsenal in a penalty shootout, many of their players will not have time to rest because they must represent their countries. There is no denying they should see many of their players next month. The one leading the way is obviously Ousmane Dembélé, who was picked by Didier Deschamps to seek revenge for France after the last edition’s loss. His presence will not be the only one. In the French team there are more players who come from Paris Saint-Germain, with Lucas Hernandez, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola joining the Ballon d’Or winner. World Cup players from out of France A top team like Paris Saint-Germain logically has players from different countries who are worthy of their national teams. The other player of huge importance for Luis Enrique is Vitinha, who was a secure presence in Portugal’s list. Vitinha should be a very important player for Portugal (Carl Recine/Getty Images) The strong list of players from that country includes a decisive piece for Paris Saint-Germain like left back Nuno Mendes, who may share a team with João Neves, with Gonçalo Ramos also called up. From the starting lineup of the final, only winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and goalkeeper Matvey Safonov will not be at the World Cup, with Achraf Hakimi representing Morocco and Marquinhos leading Brazil as captains. More players called There are more PSG players who will continue into the tournament, with Willian Pacho representing Ecuador and Fabián Ruiz part of Spain’s squad. Lee Kang-in has also been called up for South Korea, while Ibrahim Mbaye completes the group after being selected by Senegal.
The Cooligans go LIVE with instant reaction to Paris Saint-Germain F.C. winning back-to-back UEFA Champions League Final titles, breaking down whether Arsenal F.C. approached the match too cautiously and diving into the internet’s biggest reactions to the result. The guys also spotlight Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as Player of the Game, debate whether domestic league difficulty played a role in the final, and ask the big question: has Luis Enrique become the best manager in European football right now?
Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele were among the central figures, but the Champions League final also created concern far beyond club soccer. Thus, for Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal and Kylian Mbappe's France, the clash delivered mixed emotions. The UEFA Champions League final delivered drama, tension, and concern in equal measure as Paris Saint-Germain defeated Arsenal on penalties to retain the European crown. Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele were among the central figures, but the Champions League final also created concern far beyond club soccer. Thus, for Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Portugal and Kylian Mbappe‘s France, the clash delivered mixed emotions. PSG eventually celebrated a second consecutive Champions League title after overcoming Arsenal in a gripping contest that ended 1-1 after extra time. Yet amid the celebrations, attention quickly shifted toward the fitness of Vitinha and Dembele after both players were forced off before the final whistle. The final began perfectly for Arsenal as Kai Havertz struck after only six minutes to hand Mikel Arteta’s side an early advantage. The Gunners then produced a disciplined defensive display that frustrated PSG for much of the opening hour. Luis Enrique’s side dominated possession but struggled to create clear opportunities against one of Europe’s strongest defensive units. Arsenal held firm until a decisive moment arrived midway through the second half. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia won a penalty after being brought down inside the area, allowing Ousmane Dembele to equalize from the spot in the 65th minute. The French forward calmly converted to bring PSG back into the contest and set up a tense finale. Neither side could find a winner during normal time or extra time. The match ultimately went to penalties, where PSG held its nerve to secure a second consecutive Champions League title and become the first club since Real Madrid to successfully defend the trophy. Injury concerns emerge during extra time Despite the celebrations, concern quickly spread among supporters of both Portugal and France. Dembele was the first player to raise alarms after requesting a substitution shortly after the end of normal time. The reigning Ballon d’Or holder appeared uncomfortable and struggled physically before eventually leaving the field. Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain Initial fears centered around a possible muscle injury, particularly given the timing so close to the World Cup. Reports suggested there was concern about a potential issue in the back of his thigh, an injury that could have sidelined him for several weeks. Vitinha later followed him off the pitch during extra time. The Portuguese midfielder appeared to be dealing with a leg problem and was unable to continue, forcing Luis Enrique into another late change. With the World Cup now only weeks away, both incidents immediately became major talking points for Portugal and France. What is Ousmane Dembele’s condition? Fortunately for France, the situation surrounding Dembele appears less serious than initially feared. According to reports from L’Equipe, Dembele informed PSG staff after leaving the field that he was suffering from cramps rather than a muscular injury. The PSG forward was unable to continue after the 93rd minute and was replaced by Goncalo Ramos. However, his ability to leave the field under his own power offered encouragement. That development will come as welcome news for Didier Deschamps and the France national team. Dembele remains one of the country’s most influential attacking players and is expected to play a central role in France’s World Cup campaign. France opens its tournament against Senegal on June 16 and will also face Iraq and Norway during the group stage. Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain shakes hands with Goncalo Ramos as he leaves the field What is the verdict on Vitinha? The news surrounding Vitinha appears even more encouraging. Despite limping off during extra time, the Portuguese midfielder did n
Although Arsenal ultimately suffered heartbreak in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, the German forward achieved a remarkable milestone that places him among a select group of players in the competition’s history. Kai Havertz’s name now sits alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Mario Mandzukic after another memorable night on European soccer’s biggest stage. Although Arsenal ultimately suffered heartbreak in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, the German forward achieved a remarkable milestone that places him among a select group of players in the competition’s history. The final at Budapest’s Puskas Arena ended in disappointment for Arsenal as PSG successfully defended its European crown after prevailing in a dramatic penalty shootout. Yet despite the defeat, Havertz emerged with a personal achievement that underlined his reputation as one of soccer’s most reliable performers in high-pressure matches. Arsenal made the perfect start to the final when the German international opened the scoring after just six minutes, silencing the defending champion’s supporters and giving the Premier League winner an early advantage. The 26-year-old forward capitalized on a loose ball inside the penalty area and finished confidently from a tight angle. It was another example of his ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are at their highest. For much of the match, Arsenal executed Mikel Arteta’s game plan impressively. However, the game shifted midway through the second half. EEEEEEES INCREIBLE como Havertz hizo ese gol… pic.twitter.com/puqZDLVQu2— 𝓙𝓸𝓷𝓪𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓷 ²¹ (@jwma242) May 30, 2026 A challenge from Cristhian Mosquera on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia resulted in a penalty, allowing Ousmane Dembele to level the score from the spot and bring the French side back into the contest. Neither side could find a winner during the remainder of normal time or throughout extra time. As a result, Europe’s biggest trophy would be decided by penalties. PSG holds its nerve in shootout drama The tension was immense as both teams stepped up from 12 yards. PSG gained an early psychological advantage when the shootout was held in front of its own supporters after winning the coin toss. The contest remained finely balanced before Lucas Beraldo converted an important penalty for the Parisians. Moments later, Gabriel blasted his effort over the crossbar, handing the French champion the decisive advantage. PSG eventually secured a 4-3 shootout victory, retaining the Champions League title and becoming one of the few clubs ever to win back-to-back European crowns. For Arsenal, the defeat was crushing. The club had hoped to complete a historic season after winning the Premier League title, but the dream of lifting a first Champions League trophy slipped away most cruelly. The exclusive club Havertz has joined Despite the disappointment, Havertz’s goal carried historic significance. By scoring for Arsenal in the final, Havertz joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Mario Mandzukic in an exclusive Champions League club. The achievement places the German among some of the competition’s most distinguished performers. The record is remarkable because it highlights a player’s ability to deliver on the biggest stage while representing different clubs across separate eras of their career. Havertz has now scored in Champions League finals for both Chelsea and Arsenal. His first came in 2021 when he netted the winning goal against Manchester City to secure Chelsea’s European triumph. His latest strike against PSG means he has become only the third player ever to score in a Champions League final for two different clubs. The complete list now reads: RankPlayerClubs Scored for in UEFA Champions League Finals1.Kai HavertzChelsea (2021), Arsenal (2026)2.Cristiano RonaldoManchester United (2008), Real Madrid (2014, 2017)3.Mario MandzukicBayern Munich (2013), Juventus (2017)
While much of the attention has focused on tactics, key players, and recent form, another intriguing question surrounds the occasion: how Arsenal’s win, draw, or loss against PSG could shape the outcome of the 2025 UEFA Champions League final and define the legacy of both clubs. The UEFA Champions League final has arrived, and with it comes a fascinating showdown between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. The match at Budapest’s Puskás Arena carries enormous significance for two clubs that have climbed to the summit of European soccer in recent years. The Champions League has rarely presented such an evenly matched contest. Historically, Arsenal and PSG have been inseparable in their competitive meetings. Across seven previous encounters, both clubs have recorded two victories each and three draws, highlighting just how little separates them. Their most recent meetings came during last season’s semifinal, when PSG edged Arsenal 3-1 on aggregate thanks to goals from Fabian Ruiz, Achraf Hakimi, and Ousmane Dembele. Arsenal, however, had previously defeated the French champion 2-0 during the league phase, proving that either side is capable of gaining the upper hand. The final also pits two contrasting soccer philosophies against one another. PSG enters the match as the defending European champion under Luis Enrique, armed with a dynamic attack featuring Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Desire Doue. The Gunners arrive as Premier League champions, boasting the competition’s strongest defensive record and an unbeaten European campaign. What happens if Arsenal wins against PSG? An Arsenal victory would complete one of the greatest seasons in the club’s history. After ending a 22-year wait for the Premier League title, lifting the Champions League trophy would allow the North London club to secure a remarkable domestic and European double. Such a triumph would also serve as redemption after last season’s semifinal defeat to PSG. Arteta’s project has steadily progressed over several years, and conquering Europe would validate the club’s long-term vision. The defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel, supported by goalkeeper David Raya, has been central to the club’s European run. The Gunners have conceded only six goals in the competition and have kept more clean sheets than any other side. Viktor Gyoekeres of Arsenal celebrates with his teammates after scoring against Atletico Madrid. A victory would also elevate several players into club folklore. Viktor Gyokeres, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard would become part of a generation remembered for delivering Arsenal’s most prestigious achievement on the continental stage. What’s more, it would end PSG’s dreams of achieving back-to-back Champions League trophies. What happens if Arsenal draws against PSG? A draw after regulation time would underline just how closely matched these teams are. If the score is level when the referee blows the final whistle after 90 minutes, the tournament will not end in a draw, and there will be no replay. Instead, the match moves into the standard tie-breaking procedures, beginning with extra time, where the teams play two 15-minute halves. If one side is ahead at the end of the additional 30 minutes, they are declared the winner and lift the trophy. However, if the score remains tied after extra time, the champion is determined through a penalty shootout. Many observers expect a tactical chess match between Arteta and Luis Enrique. Arsenal thrives on defensive organization and controlled possession, while PSG has demonstrated the ability to alternate between aggressive pressing and patient ball retention depending on the circumstances. The possibility of extra time could particularly favor PSG due to the freshness of its squad. Luis Enrique has rotated heavily throughout the season, ensuring that many of his key players arrive in Budapest with fewer minutes in their legs than their Arsenal counterparts. At the same time, A
