Football
Xabi Alonso sends message to Arsenal and Chelsea over Rodrygo transfer
Xabi Alonso has made it clear that Rodrygo remains a crucial part of his plans at Real Madrid, despite growing interest from Premier League clubs Arsenal and Chelsea.
The 24-year-old winger has been at the center of transfer speculation following another impressive season in the Spanish capital.
Since arriving from Santos in 2019, Rodrygo has accumulated 267 appearances for Los Blancos, including 51 this past season alone.
His consistency and versatility in wide areas have made him one of the most reliable attacking players in Europe, drawing the attention of top English clubs eager to add firepower ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly looking to reinforce his options on the flanks. The Gunners once again finished second in the Premier League, missing out on silverware for the fifth year running.
Rodrygo is believed to be a top target for the North London side, although financial limitations have also led them to consider alternatives such as Kaoru Mitoma and Bryan Mbeumo.
Chelsea are also keeping close tabs on the Brazilian forward. After a strong season under new manager Enzo Maresca, which saw the Blues return to Champions League competition with a fourth-place finish, the club is now eager to strengthen the squad even further.
Rodrygo’s ability to deliver in high-stakes matches makes him an appealing option as Chelsea looks to build on its recent success.
However, Alonso’s recent comments suggest that Rodrygo is not going anywhere. During his official unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu, the newly appointed manager emphasized the player’s importance to his vision for the team.
Describing Rodrygo as “spectacular,” Alonso confirmed that the winger will play a central role in Madrid’s plans next season.
Having taken over from Carlo Ancelotti, who departed to manage Brazil ahead of the upcoming World Cup, Alonso inherits a squad filled with talent but also with something to prove after a disappointing end to last season.
Real Madrid were unable to defend their La Liga title, falling behind fierce rivals Barcelona, and also suffered defeat in the Copa del Rey final.
Their Champions League campaign ended in the quarter-finals with a heavy loss to Arsenal, a result that underscored the need for new leadership and renewed energy within the team.
Alonso spoke passionately about the opportunity in front of him. He expressed pride in returning to the club he once called home as a player and shared his belief in the potential of the current squad.
He acknowledged the legacy left by Ancelotti, a coach who won three Champions League titles and two La Liga crowns during his time with the club, and expressed a desire to carry that tradition forward with ambition and conviction.
The new manager highlighted the strength and promise of the players at his disposal, stating his intention to build a team that not only performs but connects with fans on an emotional level.
With a clear message of optimism and purpose, Alonso appears ready to lead Real Madrid into a new era, with Rodrygo firmly in his plans.
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.”
-
Football11 months ago
Antony scores another worldie with stunning free-kick vs ex-Man Utd team-mate
-
Football10 months ago
Guardiola refuses to shake hands with Palace star as Man City boss makes his feelings clear at the final whistle
-
Football10 months ago
Lionel Messi involved in furious argument with referee after Inter Miami game
-
NBA1 year ago
9 Years After ESPN Punishment, Radio Host Reveals Miami Heat’s Role in LeBron James’ Billboard Controversy
-
Football9 months agoDone deal: Details of Paul Pogba’s transfer to Monaco
-
Football11 months ago
Man Utd wonderkid dubbed ‘Next Yamal’ could snub Spain for England
-
Football10 months ago
REVEALRD: Why do Man Utd have (Red) as their shirt sponsor vs West Ham
-
Football11 months ago
Amorim spotted with new plaster on his knuckles after half-time vs Bilbao
