Football
Nico Williams sends transfer message to Arsenal ahead of Man Utd clash
Arsenal transfer target Nico Williams has offered a subtle indication of his future plans just days before Athletic Bilbao’s Europa League semi-final clash with Manchester United. The 22-year-old winger has long been on the radar of the Gunners, who attempted to sign him following his standout performances for Spain at Euro 2024. While that move fell through, Arsenal’s interest has not cooled.

Barcelona have also kept close tabs on Williams, though recent reports suggest the Catalan club may be backing away from pursuing him this summer. That development could open the door for Arsenal, who now appear to be among the frontrunners to land the talented wide man. Williams is currently tied to a contract that includes a €58 million (£48.4m) release clause.
Despite dealing with injuries earlier in the season, Williams has delivered an impressive campaign, tallying 11 goals and seven assists across all competitions. His contributions in the Europa League have been particularly notable, with his goal against Rangers helping secure Bilbao’s place in the semi-finals with a 2-0 aggregate victory.
As Athletic prepare to face Manchester United in the penultimate round, Williams has voiced his desire to continue achieving success with his boyhood club. Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, he hinted at his ambitions and future goals, stating that playing at Old Trafford is a dream for any young footballer and expressing his intent to help Athletic win the Europa League and qualify for the Champions League next season.
Williams emphasized his belief in the team’s humble but determined approach, noting the unity and form that have driven their deep run in Europe. He highlighted how much it would mean to reach the final, especially since it would be played at San Mamés, Bilbao’s home ground, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for both players and fans.
However, while his commitment to the club remains strong, Williams’ future may not be entirely in his hands. His release clause presents an opportunity for top European sides to swoop in. With Barcelona reportedly cooling their interest, Arsenal are poised to make a move, especially as they look to bolster their attack this summer.

Newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta has reportedly met with Williams’ representatives to explore a potential deal. Arsenal are not alone in the chase, though, as Chelsea and Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation and could yet launch bids of their own.
Adding a winger is one of three key objectives for Arsenal during the upcoming transfer window. The club is also targeting reinforcements at striker and central midfield as they prepare for another campaign among Europe’s elite.
Mikel Arteta recently expressed confidence in Arsenal’s ability to attract top talent. He pointed out that players are increasingly drawn to the club’s project and the progress made in recent years. According to the manager, Arsenal’s stature and style of play now make them a desirable destination for the best players on the market.
With Williams’ form and potential, the race for his signature will likely intensify as the season nears its conclusion. Arsenal’s pursuit, combined with the player’s ambitions, could make for one of the summer’s standout transfer stories.
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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