Football
Arsenal receive mixed injury updates on Thomas Partey and Jorginho ahead of Real Madrid clash
Arsenal have been dealt a blow ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid, with Jorginho officially ruled out due to injury.
The experienced midfielder picked up a chest issue during the 1-1 draw with Brentford at the weekend and won’t travel to the Bernabeu. Mikel Arteta now faces a major selection dilemma as he prepares his squad for one of the biggest nights of their season.

The Gunners are already stretched in midfield, and the loss of Jorginho only adds to the pressure. Injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus earlier this year forced Arteta to deploy Mikel Merino as an emergency striker, further limiting midfield options.
Jorginho’s absence is a significant setback, especially given his experience and leadership in high-pressure European fixtures. According to reports, the Italy international is unlikely to return anytime soon, and with his contract expiring in June, he may have already played his final game for Arsenal.
Despite this, there is hope that Thomas Partey could return to the fold in time for Tuesday night’s massive clash.
The Ghanaian midfielder has struggled with fitness issues but has been making steady progress in training.
Arteta is eager to pair Partey with Declan Rice in the heart of midfield, a combination that could provide the control and composure needed against a formidable Real Madrid side.
Partey, who knows the Bernabeu well from his time at Atletico Madrid, brings valuable experience and physicality that could prove crucial if Arsenal are to reach the Champions League semi-finals for just the third time in their history.
Partey expressed confidence ahead of the tie, stressing the importance of maintaining belief and composure under pressure.
He emphasized the need for Arsenal to stay true to their game plan and be bold in possession.
His words reflect the mindset Arteta has instilled in his squad—one of resilience, focus, and fearless ambition, even on the biggest stages in European football.
Jakub Kiwior, who has stepped up impressively in recent weeks, is also expected to play a key role. The Polish defender has filled in seamlessly for the injured Gabriel Magalhaes and was praised for his strong performance against Kylian Mbappe in the first leg.
Kiwior admitted that while the Real Madrid fixture ranks among the biggest matches of his career, he felt prepared and focused. His ability to shut down top-level attackers could be vital as Arsenal aim to protect their goal and create opportunities on the counter.
With the tie finely balanced, Arsenal will need every bit of grit and quality they can muster to overcome the Spanish giants on their own turf.
Kick-off at the Santiago Bernabeu is fast approaching, and though the absence of Jorginho is a setback, the potential return of Partey provides a timely boost. Arteta’s squad know what’s at stake, and their performance on Tuesday night will determine whether their European dream continues or comes to an end.
Football
FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.
As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.
Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.
In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.
Football
New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)
The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.
Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.
The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.
Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.
This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.
Football
Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job
Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.
The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.
According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.
His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.
Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.
Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.
United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.
De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.
The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.
Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.
“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.
“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.
“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”
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