Football
Spain legend reveals plan to kidnap Antony after incredible loan spell
Spanish football icon Joaquin has jokingly threatened to “kidnap” Antony to prevent the Brazilian winger from returning to Manchester United after his impressive loan spell with Real Betis.
Antony delivered a stunning performance in the first leg of Betis’ Europa Conference League semi-final against Fiorentina, scoring a spectacular half-volley to help secure a 2-1 victory.
The 25-year-old picked up the ball just outside the penalty area and, despite being unable to get a shot away on his preferred left foot, adjusted quickly and fired a right-footed rocket into the top corner.
The goal flew past former Manchester United teammate David de Gea and added to an earlier strike from Abde Ezzalzouli, putting Betis firmly in control before Fiorentina pulled one back through Luca Ranieri in the second half.
Since joining the LaLiga club on loan from Manchester United in January, Antony has racked up 10 goal contributions—six goals and four assists in just 19 appearances.

His creativity and sharp finishing have been instrumental in Betis’ surge for European qualification, with Manuel Pellegrini’s side currently sitting sixth in the league table.
Despite his impact, Antony’s long-term future remains uncertain. Manchester United have reportedly rejected a £25 million offer for another season-long loan, indicating their preference for a permanent transfer.
That hasn’t stopped Betis legend Joaquin from urging the club to do whatever it takes to keep the Brazilian. Speaking with passion and humor, the 43-year-old said, “I’ll provide the car if he has to be kidnapped, but let him stay no matter what. This is the moment to enjoy. I think important moments will come, and we’ll see later.”
Antony’s red-hot form has quickly made him a fan favorite in Seville, even though his loan stint hasn’t been without controversy.
He was shown a straight red card during a 2-1 win over Getafe in February, a decision later overturned by the Spanish Football Federation.
Meanwhile, his parent club Manchester United also enjoyed a strong showing this week, securing a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao.
As speculation continues to swirl around his future, one thing is clear: Antony has become a key figure in Real Betis’ European campaign, and fans—and legends—are desperate to see him stay beyond the summer.
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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