Football
Premier League boss vows to help Athletic Bilbao beat Man Utd in Europa League
AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has pledged his support to former club Athletic Bilbao as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.
The Spanish side will host United in the first leg at San Mames, aiming to gain an edge in the tie and move one step closer to European glory.
Despite United’s turbulent domestic season, they remain hopeful that European success could redeem their campaign.

Iraola, who spent the majority of his playing career at Athletic Bilbao, revealed his intention to speak with current manager Ernesto Valverde to provide insights into United’s tactics.
Having already guided Bournemouth to a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season and a 1-1 draw in the recent encounter at the Vitality Stadium, Iraola possesses valuable knowledge of the Premier League giants.
When asked about the possibility of contacting Valverde for tactical discussions ahead of the clash, Iraola responded affirmatively, stating that their strong personal relationship makes it likely.
The Basque coach played more than 500 games for the club and regards Valverde as one of the most influential figures in his football journey.
He expressed admiration for his former mentor, calling him the most special coach he ever had and wishing him success in the tournament.
Iraola also made it clear that his support for Athletic Club remains strong, expressing hope that they can go all the way and lift the Europa League trophy. He fondly recalled Bilbao’s 2012 victory over United, a career highlight for him as captain during their famous win in that edition of the competition.

In a separate development, Bournemouth have filed an appeal with the Premier League following the red card shown to striker Evanilson during the weekend’s draw with United. The Brazilian was dismissed in the 70th minute after a challenge on Noussair Mazraoui, a decision that left Iraola visibly frustrated.
He argued that Evanilson had slipped during the incident and did not make dangerous contact, stressing that such accidents should not result in suspensions.
Iraola pointed out the harsh consequences of the decision, noting that the forward now faces a three-match ban. He also highlighted a first-half incident where Casemiro appeared to catch Evanilson in the chest, which went unpunished.
The Bournemouth boss criticized the use of VAR, suggesting that only the worst angle was reviewed, leading to an unfair outcome.
As Bournemouth focus on their appeal, Iraola will also keep a close eye on his beloved Athletic Club, hoping his advice can help them overcome Manchester United and move a step closer to European triumph.
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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