Real Madrid defender ruled out of Champions League home clash against Bayern Munich

Real Madrid defender ruled out of Champions League home clash against Bayern Munich: Real Madrid defender ruled out of Champions League home clash against Bayern Munich

Real Madrid have been handed an injury blow ahead of their Champions League home clash against Bayern Munich on Tuesday. 

According to ESPN, Ferland Mendy has been practically ruled out of the crucial game against Bayern. 

The 30-year-old missed the previous three La Liga fixtures due to a muscle injury. 

He was expected to recover after the international break to be involved in the Champions League quarter-final first leg. But it appears his recovery is taking longer than expected. 

Mendy could recover in time for the away leg on April 15. 

Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa is expected to start Alvaro Carreras at left-back, despite the Spaniard enduring a poor outing in Saturday’s shocking defeat at Mallorca. 

Fran Garcia is also an option, but the former Rayo Vallecano star has mostly been introduced from the bench this season. 

Madrid will be missing their first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who has been sidelined with a muscle injury. Andriy Lunin will continue between the sticks. 

Daniel Ceballos and Rodrygo will also be absent, with the duo suffering from calf and ligament injuries respectively. 

Los Blancos will focus on winning the Champions League, as their chances for the La Liga title are almost over following the 2-1 setback at Mallorca. 

With eight games remaining in the season, Barcelona are seven points clear at the top. 

Madrid face a tough challenge against Bayern, who have been impeccable under Vincent Kompany this season. 

The Bavarians have lost only two games in all competitions this campaign.  

Stats from Transfermarkt 

Pep Lijnders provides latest update on John Stones and Ruben Dias injuries

Pep Lijnders provides latest update on John Stones and Ruben Dias injuries:

Manchester City’s assistant manager, Pep Lijnders, has provided a new update on John Stones and Ruben Dias as both defenders are nearing returns from recent injury problems.

Both Stones and Dias missed Man City’s resounding 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday though the former was named amongst the substitutes.

Dias has been absent since being taken off the pitch during Man City’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League on March 17 and did not link up with his country during the international break. Stones, meanwhile, withdrew from England duty having picked up a slight niggle and has been on the bench for City’s last two matches including the Carabao Cup final win on March 22.

Stones’ last appearance was in the 3-1 FA Cup win over Newcastle on March 7 when he played the full 90 minutes and the 31-year-old will hope to prove his fitness in the coming months in order to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

With Pep Guardiola serving a touchline ban during Saturday’s match it was Lijnders who spoke to the media with the assistant coach saying neither Dias nor Stones should face long-term absences.

"Ruben [Dias] got a knock [on Friday] in the last minutes of training," Lijnders said. "We are assessing it. I think he had a scan again so we have to see.

"John [Stones], to be honest, I think he will not be long-term but he was not available [last Saturday]."

John Stones withdrew from the England squad due to injury (AFP via Getty Images)

Should both players be fit for City’s next game, against Chelsea in the Premier League this Sunday, it will be a big help to Guardiola who must also juggle other injuries in the squad.

Josko Gvardiol remains a out for the long term having not played since the league draw with Chelsea in January. Guardiola has previously hoped to have the versatile defender available before the end of the season and Gvardiola himself is working towards being as ready for the 2026 World Cup with Croatia.

Having already lifted the Carabao Cup this year, City are aiming to also win the FA Cup and will take on Championship side Southampton in the next round. They are also in with an outside chance at winning the Premier League but must overcome a nine-point deficit to Arsenal with eight matches remaining.

NAPOLI v AC MILAN: MATCH PREVIEW

NAPOLI v AC MILAN: MATCH PREVIEW: NAPOLI v AC MILAN: MATCH PREVIEW

AC Milan are preparing to take on Napoli on Serie A matchday 31 at 20:45 CEST on 6 April 2026. The game will be at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Naples. Now back from the break, Max Allegri's men are ready to take on Antonio Conte's team in a high-stakes clash that promises plenty of action. With AC Milan currently second in the tableand Napoli just behind them, the game is an important test for both teams. Let's get ready for kick-off with our Match Preview.

LATEST FROM MILANELLOAC Milan go into the game off the back of a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Torino, which saw the Rossoneri maintain their grip on second place and get back to winning ways following the defeat to Lazio. Allegri's side have worked hard at Milanello in the past two weeks, and they now have Ruben Loftus-Cheekback fit (as well as Santiago Gimenez) after his absence since the Parma game at the end of February. The fitness of both Matteo Gabbia and Rafael Leão will need to be evaluated, though both are on the road to recovery. Strahinja Pavlović is in a rich vein of form at the moment, having been voted MVP for March and having scored for Serbia during the international window. There are no suspensions for Milan, but there are four players who are one yellow card away from a ban: Athekame, Fofana, Modrić and Saelemaekers.

"It'll be a great game. This is the toughest, but best, part of the season,"Allegrisaid in his pre-match press conference on Saturday. "This is an important matchday, because it could be decisive. Games after a break are always tricky. We need to be clinical because the rhythm of the game and the temperature are changing. We're nearing our main goal, but we still need a few wins. Focus on Monday's game."

LATEST FROM NAPOLINapoli are currently on a run of four consecutive victories in Serie A, all of which have been tight. The most recent of them was a 1-0 win against Cagliari - Scott McTominay with the goal. Antonio Conte's side have been solid and able to react, climbing back up to third place. Just a point behind AC Milan, the Azzurri are determined to use home advantage to try and overtake the Rossoneri. Conte, who didn't give a pre-match press conference, will need to make do without Di Lorenzo, Neres, Rrahmani and Vergara. There are no suspensions or cautions. Lukaku is also unavailable.

PRE MATCH STATS

• In the last five seasons (2021/22), the head-to-head record between Napoli and AC Milan is perfectly balanced, with four wins apiece and a draw.
• AC Milan have scored on each of their last ten trips to Napoli in the league (19 goals, 1.9 per game). This is the Rossoneri's best-ever streak against the Partenopei away from home in Serie A.
• AC Milan (14) and Napoli (12) are the two teams who have picked up the most points from losing positions in Serie A this season. The Rossoneri are also the team with the most points picked up following goals in the last 15 minutes of games (12).
• In the last six seasons (since 2020/21), no player has provided more assists than Rafael Leão in Serie A: 41, level with Nicolò Barella. The Portuguese forward has had a hand in four goals against Napoli in all competitions: two goals and two assists, including a brace at the Maradona on 2 April 2023 in the league.

WHERE TO WATCH NAPOLI v AC MILANIn Italy, the match will be broadcast live on DAZN. To watch it from abroad, you can check the "Where to Watch AC Milan on TV" section under "Abroad". On the Rossoneri's official channels, coverage begins with Matchday on Milan TV, going live at 20:00 CET right up until kick-off. Afterwards, there will be post-match interviews and Coach Allegri's press conference. Don't miss the full coverage on acmilan.com, the AC Milan Official App, the club's official social media channels, and WhatsApp.

LATEST FROM SERIE ADaniele Doveri will take charge of the game, assisted by linesmen Giovanni Baccini and Valerio Colarossi. Luca Pairetto will be the fourth official, while Maurizio Mariani is on VAR duty, assisted by Aleandro Di Paolo.

Serie A matchday 31, fixtures: Saturday: Sassuolo 2-1 Cagliari, Hellas Verona 0-1 Fiorentina and Lazio 1-1 Parma. Easter Sunday: Cremonese 1-2 Bologna, Pisa 0-1 Torino, Inter 5-2 Roma. Today, Monday 6 April: 12:30 Udinese v Como, 15:00 Lecce v Atalanta, 18:00 Juventus v Genoa and 20:45 Napoli v AC Milan.

Here are the current standings: Inter 72; Milan* 63; Napoli* 62; Como* 57; Juventus* and Roma 54; Atalanta* 50; Bologna 45; Lazio 44; Sassuolo 42; Udinese* 39; Torino 36; Parma 35; Genoa* 33; Fiorentina 32; Cagliari 30; Cremonese and Lecce* 27; Hellas Verona and Pisa 18. ^{(*= game in hand)}

How will Napoli v AC Milan go? Take part in our competition!

Ex Inter Milan Defender Adamant “Alessandro Bastoni Doesn’t Want To Leave” Amid Barcelona Rumors

Ex Inter Milan Defender Adamant “Alessandro Bastoni Doesn’t Want To Leave” Amid Barcelona Rumors: Ex Inter Milan Defender Adamant “Alessandro Bastoni Doesn’t Want To Leave” Amid Barcelona Rumors

Andrea Ranocchia believes Alessandro Bastoni has no intention of leaving Inter Milan despite Barcelona’s genuine interest in luring him to the Camp Nou.

During his latest interview via FCInterNews, the former Nerazzurri defender delivered his verdict on Bastoni’s uncertain future at San Siro.

Widely regarded as one of the best center-backs in world football, Alessandro Bastoni has been the cornerstone of Inter’s defense for nearly a decade.

However, the 26-year-old has recently fallen out of favor with Serie A fans.

Indeed, he gained notoriety for his antics in February’s Derby d’Italia clash against Juventus.

Furthermore, his international career hit its lowest point last week as he received a straight red card in a ‘make or break’ 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final.

Meanwhile, runaway La Liga leaders Barcelona are keeping a close eye on the former Atalanta man.

Los Blaugranas have identified Bastoni as their top target ahead of the summer, hoping to capitalize on his uncertain standing to lure him away from San Siro.

Ranocchia Believes Alessandro Bastoni Has No Intention of Leaving Inter Milan

“He has a great personality, and that’s what’s helping him right now, when everything seems to be coming at him,” Ranocchia said. “Chivu really cares about the players on a human level and transmits strength to them.

“A match like this is important for him. I wouldn’t leave Italian football because of this situation, and I don’t think he wants to either. Many others would have crumbled and struggled to even leave the house.

“He lets a lot of things slide, even though the threats have affected his daughter and wife. These are things that have an impact.”

Then, he hailed Nicolo Barella’s massive performance in last night’s 5-2 win over Roma.

“Barella is always told he doesn’t create enough chances, so that goal felt like a release. He’s receiving more criticism than he deserves; he’s a player who has been carrying the team for years.

“He plays almost every game, gives so much, and is emotionally invested.”

Finally, he reiterated Lautaro Martinez’s importance to Cristian Chivu’s setup.

“You feel it: even when he doesn’t score, his marker struggles. He plays a lot for the team and presses. Calhanoglu’s goal? It decided the game. In my opinion, Svilar isn’t hugely at fault, the trajectory changes at the end.”

“It’s no coincidence that Lautaro returns and Inter create so much. It was a necessary win. They can now watch Napoli’s game against AC Milan calmly and enjoy whatever result comes.

“I think the break was very positive for Inter; they had time to rebuild, and the players changed environment. Then they came back as we saw.”

📺 Monday's schedule (6): Brazil U17, Série B, Série C and Europe

📺 Monday's schedule (6): Brazil U17, Série B, Série C and Europe: 📺 Monday's schedule (6): Brazil U17, Série B, Série C and Europe

South American U-17 Championship

5 PM - Bolivia vs. Venezuela: YouTube (Conmebol)

8 PM - Peru vs. Brazil: SporTV

---

La Liga (Spanish)

4 PM - Girona vs. Villarreal: ESPN and Disney+

---

Serie A (Italian)

7:30 AM - Udinese vs. Como: Disney+

10 AM - Lecce vs. Atalanta: Disney+

1 PM - Juventus vs. Genoa: ESPN 4 and Disney+

3:45 PM - Napoli vs. Milan: Disney+

---

Primeira Liga (Portuguese)

2:45 PM - Arouca vs. Estoril: XSports and Disney+

4:45 PM - Casa Pia vs. Benfica: ESPN 4 and Disney+

---

Brazilian Serie B

9 PM - Goiás vs. Criciúma: ESPN, XSports, YouTube (Goat) and Disney+

---

Brazilian Serie C

8 PM - Ypiranga-RS vs. Figueirense: SportyNet+ and YouTube (Canal do Benja)

8 PM - Santa Cruz vs. Itabaiana: SportyNet and YouTube (SportyNet)

---

Brazilian Serie D

8:30 PM - Democrata vs. Real Noroeste: YouTube (Metrópoles Esportes)

---

Featured photo: Nelson Terme / CBF

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

📲 Social posts deleted again: Bundesliga club takes swipe at rival

📲 Social posts deleted again: Bundesliga club takes swipe at rival: 📲 Social posts deleted again: Bundesliga club takes swipe at rival

Union Berlin’s social media department caused a stir on Sunday after the draw against St. Pauli. The reason: the Köpenick club took a swipe at VfL Wolfsburg after drawing 1-1 with the Hamburg side.

“Sometimes you have to look at the positives...” Union wrote on X, among other things. They also shared a meme from the US series The Office. It showed two men (boss and employee) shaking hands. Above them it read: “Wolfsburg relegation” (left), “Gift St. Pauli a point” (right). 

The photo was also posted on Instagram. But apparently not everyone at the club shared that sense of humor. Shortly afterward, both posts were deleted.

At the same time, Union themselves are still fighting to stay in the Bundesliga. With six matchdays left, their lead over St. Pauli, who now occupy the relegation playoff spot, is only seven points. 

So it was no surprise that there were also negative reactions to Union’s post on social media. 

“I look at the table, the remaining matchdays, and who still has to play whom. St. Pauli have Bayern next week, and we want to get a positive result in Heidenheim — and then we’d already be one step closer to our goal. We’re in a very good position,” Steffen Baumgart told DAZN after the final whistle. The Union coach also does not see his team as safe yet in their battle to avoid relegation.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

Ex Serie A Referee Praises “Excellent” Simone Sozza After Inter Milan 5-2 Roma

Ex Serie A Referee Praises “Excellent” Simone Sozza After Inter Milan 5-2 Roma: Ex Serie A Referee Praises “Excellent” Simone Sozza After Inter Milan 5-2 Roma

Graziano Cesari heaped praise on Serie A referee Simone Sozza for an ‘excellent’ display in last night’s clash between Inter Milan and Roma.

During his latest interview via FCInterNews, Cesari took stock of Sozza’s performance at San Siro.

Runaway Serie A leaders Inter Milan put top-four hopefuls Roma to the sword, emerging as 5-2 winners in yesterday’s mouth-watering fixture.

Indeed, Lautaro Martinez returned to action with a brace, extending his league tally to 16 goals this season.

Meanwhile, Marcus Thuram halted his five-game scoring drought in the top flight with a towering header early in the second half.

Furthermore, the Frenchman added two assists, setting up El Toro for both goals.

However, the most remarkable moment took place on the stroke of halftime, when Hakan Calhanoglu scored a screamer to restore Inter’s lead.

Last but not least, Nicolo Barella netted his first league goal since October to cap off a memorable night for the Nerazzurri.

Graziano Cesari Hails Referee Simone Sozza After Inter Milan 5-2 Roma Thrashing

“Sozza was very good, Cesari said. “He usually doesn’t get the big games wrong.

“After two and a half minutes, you already see a challenge between Pisilli and Calhanoglu. Neither of them intends to harm the other; they both pull their legs back, and Sozza did very well to award just a foul without any disciplinary action.

“Then there’s an incident in the Roma box with Cristante, who does well with his experience by extending his left arm to prevent Calhanoglu from reaching the ball.”

“Akanji’s handball in the box? His arms never move away from his body, and he doesn’t make himself bigger. It was the correct decision by Sozza. Akanji was also excellent in stopping Malen on the counter with a clean, well-timed intervention.

“On Inter’s third goal, however, there’s Thuram’s hand on Rensch, which prevents him from landing properly, but I don’t blame Sozza because the assistant is right there. You can’t hold a shirt like that.”

Sébastien Pocognoli says no ‘excessive enthusiasm’ after Monaco’s win over Marseille

Sébastien Pocognoli says no ‘excessive enthusiasm’ after Monaco’s win over Marseille: Sébastien Pocognoli says no ‘excessive enthusiasm’ after Monaco’s win over Marseille

There may have been reason for euphoria after AS Monaco’s win over Olympique de Marseille on Sunday night (2-1), but, speaking post-match, Sébastien Pocognoli guarded against “excessive enthusiasm”. 

There is, nonetheless, reason for enthusiasm. Monaco are now on a seven-game winning run in Ligue 1, and their last two wins, against Olympique Lyonnais and OM, have come against direct rivals in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification. 

From a midtable standing back in January, Pocogonoli’s side are now level with Marseille in fourth and just one point away from third-placed Lille OSC. “What I like is that my players are winning matches, but there isn’t any excessive enthusiasm. There are smiles but also an awareness of a not-so-distant past that we don’t want to revisit,” said the Belgian in a post-match press conference attended by Get French Football News.

On the race for UCL qualification, he added, “We are all separated by three or four points. You can ask the same question to Rennes, to Lyon, to Lille, to Marseille… we can all fight. There are still multiple games remaining to have different scenarios. We are coming from far back, and we will try to continue this good run.”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle – reporting from Monaco

الدوري الإيطالي الدرجة الأولى : نابولي-ميلان، يوفنتوس-جنوى، أودينيزي-كومو، ليتشي-أتالانتا

الدوري الإيطالي الدرجة الأولى: نابولي-ميلان، يوفنتوس-جنوى، أودينيزي-كومو، ليتشي-أتالانتا: الدوري الإيطالي الدرجة الأولى: نابولي-ميلان، يوفنتوس-جنوى، أودينيزي-كومو، ليتشي-أتالانتا

سيتم تحديث هذه الصفحة مباشرةً بأحدث الأخبار ذات الصلة، فلا حاجة لتحديث الصفحة!

انضموا إلينا لمتابعة جميع الأحداث والتحضيرات لحظة بلحظة من مباريات الدوري الإيطالي الأربع اليوم، أودينيزي-كومو، ليتشي-أتالانتا، يوفنتوس-جنوى، ومباراة نابولي ضد ميلان في الدوري الإيطالي.

نبدأ تغطيتنا المزدحمة ليوم اثنين عيد الفصح في تمام الساعة 11:30 بتوقيت المملكة المتحدة (12:30 بتوقيت وسط أوروبا الصيفي) حيث يأمل كومو في تعزيز المركز الرابع خارج أرضه أمام أودينيزي.

يستضيف أتالانتا فريق ليتشي في تمام الساعة 14:00 بتوقيت المملكة المتحدة (15:00 بتوقيت وسط أوروبا الصيفي)، ثم يستضيف يوفنتوس فريق جنوى بقيادة دانييلي دي روسي في تمام الساعة 17:00 بتوقيت المملكة المتحدة (18:00 بتوقيت وسط أوروبا الصيفي).

يختتم الأسبوع 31 بمواجهة حاسمة بين نابولي صاحب المركز الثالث وميلان صاحب المركز الثاني في تمام الساعة 19:45 بتوقيت المملكة المتحدة (20:45 بتوقيت وسط أوروبا الصيفي).

Chelsea hold talks over young forward Safi

Chelsea hold talks over young forward Safi: [Getty Images]

Chelsea have held talks over the signing of forward N'Sira Safi from the Right to Dream Academy.

The 17‑year‑old was called up by the Ivory Coast for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which was cancelled at short notice last month.

Safi had a trial with Chelsea in the summer of 2025 and impressed manager Sonia Bompastor.

No agreement has yet been reached and Right to Dream, a multi‑club organisation with a strong record of developing African talent, also has the option of placing Safi at one of its affiliated clubs after her 18th birthday.

The group includes Nordsjaelland in Denmark and San Diego FC in the United States.

BlueCo, which owns Chelsea and Strasbourg, has an extensive scouting network in Africa that has supported recruitment across their men's teams in England and France.

They have also hired a women's sporting director, Phil Radley, who has a decade's experience at Nordsjaelland.

Because of the Football Association's complex Governing Body Endorsement regulations regarding signing non-British players, recruiting young Africans into women's football in England is generally more difficult.

Clubs in the United States face fewer restrictions and therefore dominate recruitment from the continent.

Those same rules mean that if Safi joined Chelsea, an initial loan move may be required to aid her development while she builds the international caps needed to secure a full work permit for the reigning Women's Super League champions.

The 2026 summer transfer window opens on 15 June and closes on 31 August.

Valencia joins star-studded Wythenshawe vets team

Valencia joins star-studded Wythenshawe vets team: Antonio Valencia played for Manchester United between 2009-2019 [Getty Images]

Former Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia has joined the star-studded veteran team at Manchester club Wythenshawe AFC.

The 40-year-old spent 10 years at Old Trafford, winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, two League Cups and the Europa League.

The former Ecuador international joins a long list of ex-Premier League stars at Wythenshawe, including fellow title-winners Joleon Lescott, Danny Drinkwater, Marc Albrighton and Danny Simpson, plus ex-England frontman Emile Heskey and former Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse.

Valencia played 339 games for Manchester United and won 99 international caps, representing Ecuador at the World Cup in 2006 and 2014.

He retired from professional football in 2021 and has since founded his own academy, AV25, in his home country.

Wythenshawe have won all seven of their games in this season's Cheshire Vets League Premier Division, scoring 62 goals and conceding just eight.

Their squad list also features former Everton forward Oumar Niasse, ex-Wigan defender Maynor Figueroa, former Manchester City players Stephen Ireland and Nedum Onuoha, plus George Boyd, a former Burnley midfielder, and ex-Swansea midfielder Jefferson Montero.

Valencia joined United from Wigan Athletic in 2009 for £16m following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid, initially joining as a right-winger before converting to right-back.

His return to the north-west of England takes the combined transfer fees paid by former clubs to sign the players now at Wythenshawe to about £140m.

Between them, the squad boasts more than 2,000 top-flight appearances, almost 500 international caps and 21 major trophies.

However, they do not get paid to represent the club - in fact, chairman Carl Barratt says his wife has to send them letters to collect their £15 subscriptions fees.

• Meet the Sunday league team with 1,800 Premier League appearances

• Follow your club with BBC Sport
• Listen to the latest Football Daily podcast
• Get football news sent straight to your phone

Arsenal have 'genuine' interest in signing £61m star well liked by Arteta, talks already underway

Arsenal have 'genuine' interest in signing £61m star well liked by Arteta, talks already underway:

Arsenal are closely monitoring Bayer Leverkusen centre-forward Christian Kofane ahead of a summer move to the Emirates Stadium, according to Florian Plettenberg. The 19-year-old made his first move to Europe when he joined Albacete Balompié from Cameroonian side AS Nylon in 2024. He then enjoyed a breakout 2024/25 campaign in Spain, scoring eight goals in […]

The post Arsenal have 'genuine' interest in signing £61m star well liked by Arteta, talks already underway first appeared on Football Talk | Premier League News.

‘Strong interest' - Chelsea prepared to launch formal £52m bid to sign ‘top priority' target

‘Strong interest' - Chelsea prepared to launch formal £52m bid to sign ‘top priority' target:

Chelsea are reportedly showing ‘strong interest’ in signing Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, as per Spanish outlet Fichajes. The Blues currently have Malo Gusto and Reece James as options to deploy in the right-back position. However, the Englishman has continued to struggle with fitness problems. Josh Acheampong can provide cover on the right side of the […]

The post ‘Strong interest' - Chelsea prepared to launch formal £52m bid to sign ‘top priority' target first appeared on Football Talk | Premier League News.

Chelsea reach agreement to land £30m star after Blues 'pushed hard' to trump Euro giants

Chelsea reach agreement to land £30m star after Blues 'pushed hard' to trump Euro giants:

Chelsea are set to complete a deal to sign highly rated Argentine midfielder Valentin Barco from Strasbourg, as per ESPN Argentina‘s journalist Augusto Cesar. Barco first rose to prominence in Argentina, where his performances in Boca Juniors’ youth setup earned him a promotion to the senior squad under Miguel Ángel Russo. Initially breaking through as […]

The post Chelsea reach agreement to land £30m star after Blues 'pushed hard' to trump Euro giants first appeared on Football Talk | Premier League News.

‘They like him’ - Man Utd open talks to sign exciting £30m star, with the player ready to move

‘They like him’ - Man Utd open talks to sign exciting £30m star, with the player ready to move:

Manchester United have reportedly made contact to sign Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly, as per transfer journalist Ben Jacobs. The Red Devils currently have Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu, and Tyrell Malacia as options to deploy in the left-back position. However, the Dutchman is likely to leave as a free agent at the end of this season. […]

The post ‘They like him’ - Man Utd open talks to sign exciting £30m star, with the player ready to move first appeared on Football Talk | Premier League News.

Everton ‘favourites’ to sign £28m PL star as Moyes looks to bolster key position - report

Everton ‘favourites’ to sign £28m PL star as Moyes looks to bolster key position - report:

Everton are reportedly the frontrunners to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap, as per Football Insider. The 23-year-old started his youth career at Derby County, and after spending ten years there, he joined the Manchester City academy back in 2019. He made his first team debut for the Citizens a year later but struggled to break […]

The post Everton ‘favourites’ to sign £28m PL star as Moyes looks to bolster key position - report first appeared on Football Talk | Premier League News.

Man Utd preparing formal offer to sign £21m star with 36-G/A this season - report

Man Utd preparing formal offer to sign £21m star with 36-G/A this season - report:

Manchester United are plotting a swoop to sign former Chelsea winger Joao Felix from Al Nassr next summer, according to Fichajes. Despite featuring for mostly European top clubs, including Barcelona, Chelsea, and AC Milan, his displays have not been convincing enough for any of them to retain his services beyond the first season. While at […]

The post Man Utd preparing formal offer to sign £21m star with 36-G/A this season - report first appeared on Football Talk | Premier League News.

Ballon d'Or worthy! Dembélé scores a stunner for PSG, watch 🎥

Ballon d'Or worthy! Dembélé scores a stunner for PSG, watch 🎥: Ballon d'Or worthy! Dembélé scores a stunner for PSG, watch 🎥

Ousmane Dembélé returned from the international break in style this Friday (3). 

He scored a stunning goal to open the scoring for PSG against Toulouse in the match that kicks off the 28th round of Ligue 1.

The current Ballon d'Or winner took advantage of a poor clearance by the defense and hit it first time, sending it into the top corner.

Watch the play below:

Dembélé then scored his second goal of the match before halftime.

Top of Ligue 1, PSG took the field looking to extend their lead over Lens, who sit second in the table.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

🎥 Complete meltdown! This 🇫🇷 player sent off for a kick downstairs 😱

🎥 Complete meltdown! This 🇫🇷 player sent off for a kick downstairs 😱: 🎥 Complete meltdown! This 🇫🇷 player sent off for a kick downstairs 😱

Deserved or too harsh?

This Friday, Al-Ittihad hosted Al-Hazm on Matchday 27 of the Saudi league.

It was a match that did not go as planned for French international Moussa Diaby.

In a challenge along the touchline around the half-hour mark, the former Paris player was guilty of a bad move, delivering... a kick to his opponent’s private parts.

Without hesitation, the referee showed him a red card, sending Diaby off to the dressing room.

Fortunately for the Frenchman, Al-Ittihad eventually won 1-0.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

PLAYER RATINGS | PSG 3-1 Toulouse: League leaders go four points clear

PLAYER RATINGS | PSG 3-1 Toulouse: League leaders go four points clear: PLAYER RATINGS | PSG 3-1 Toulouse: League leaders go four points clear

Ousmane Dembélé scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain went four points clear at the top of Ligue 1 with a hard-fought win over Toulouse, five days before their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Liverpool.

The match

For PSG’s first league match in two weeks (and their last for another two), Luis Enrique would have likely preferred to send out second-string lineup frontline of the midweek reception of Liverpool. A mini-injury crisis, sidelining Senny Mayulu and Bradley Barcola among others, meant that Toulouse were instead set to face the full force of the league leaders’ first-choice attack.

The Asturian sent out an otherwise revamped eleven which notably saw Lucas Beraldo step into midfield. Les Violets, who had crept back into contention for Europe with two consecutive wins before the break, were without Charlie Cresswell due to a hamstring injury and striker Santiago Hidalgo due to suspension.

Facing the in-form attacking trio, Carlos Martínez Novell set up his side accordingly as PSG’s chances were kept to a minimum in the opening exchanges. Initially, only a couple of efforts from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia had called Guillaume Restes into action.

PSG eventually found a way through midway through the first half as the southerners could only clear a cross as far as Ousmane Dembélé on the edge of the box. With the ball set to drop at his feet, the Frenchman struck a volley into the top corner to score his ninth goal of the league campaign.

Toulouse responded minutes later, though, as two errors in quick succession from Safonov led to Nicolaisen’s header looping into the net. The Russian had misjudged a ball over the top from Toulouse, which led Pacho to concede the corner which led to the equaliser.

The hosts regained the lead soon after, though, as Kvaratskhelia nodded a corner on across goal for Dembélé to prod into an empty net. The forward almost completed his hat-trick shortly after half-time, although this time his close-range finish was ruled out for offside.

Chances for either team were few and far between in the remainder of the second half, as the visitors were limited to taking long-range shots and any urgency in PSG’s play subsided. While grabbing a draw was ostensibly within Toulouse’s reach, the visitors were unable to create anything of note in the final third due to misplaced passes and rigid patterns of play.

PSG brought on some of their usual starters in the final fifteen minutes of the match, with João Neves making a return from an ankle injury. Gonçalo Ramos also made his customary late-match cameo, and added a third in stoppage-time with a well-placed sweeping shot into the far corner.

PSG player ratings

Matvey Safonov, 4

Achraf Hakimi, 6

Ilya Zabarnyi, 5

Willian Pacho, 6

Lucas Hernandez, 5

Lucas Beraldo, 6

Lee Kang-in, 5

Warren Zaïre-Emery, 5

Désiré Doué, 5

Ousmane Dembélé, 8

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, 7

Selected Toulouse player ratings

Guillaume Restes, 5

Djibril Sidibé, 5

Cristian Cásseres, 6

GFFN | R Jucobin – reporting from the Parc des Princes

Cristiano Ronaldo returns from injury with TWO goals, watch 🎥

Cristiano Ronaldo returns from injury with TWO goals, watch 🎥: Cristiano Ronaldo returns from injury with TWO goals, watch 🎥

Cristiano Ronaldo made a triumphant return to the pitch after spending more than a month sidelined with a muscle injury.

The Portuguese star scored two goals in Al-Nassr’s win over Al-Najma in the Saudi League.

He found the net for the first time from the penalty spot to make it 3-2 in favor of his team, and shortly afterward he scored the team’s fourth goal, with Al-Nassr leading the competition.

He now has 967 career goals, and only 33 remain until he reaches 1,000.

Watch the goals from the match below:

CR7’s recent injury kept him out of the latest international break with the Portuguese national team, which faced the United States and Mexico.

He was injured during a Saudi League match on February 28 and even traveled to Spain to undergo treatment.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Eustace says Derby must stop conceding 'sloppy goals'

Eustace says Derby must stop conceding 'sloppy goals':

Derby County manager John Eustace claims the Rams must defend better after they narrowly lost a see-saw match 3-2 at Coventry City.

Ben Brereton Diaz twice levelled for promotion-chasing Derby before Jack Rudoni netted a late winner for Coventry and Eustace was unhappy with his side's defending for all three Sky Blues goals.

He told BBC Radio Derby: "I thought the whole team performance was very good.

"The three goals we conceded were really poor from our part and it's something, moving forward, we've got to stop doing, especially when we got to back to 2-2, I thought we could go and win it.

"We've conceded really sloppy goals, not doing the basics, tracking runners and not defending well enough.

"It's just not good enough. We could have a lot more points this season if we had done it for the whole 95 minutes and we spoke about that in the dressing room. But we still can't take away from the effort of the group today.

"You look at the players they're bringing on to make changes in that second half and we've still gone toe to toe with them.

"We're really disappointed we haven't won the game and the way we played in the first half was excellent."

• Latest Derby County news, analysis and fan views
• Listen to Derby County content on BBC Sounds

'Hard earned and well earned' - Lampard

'Hard earned and well earned' - Lampard:

Coventry City boss Frank Lampard spoke to BBC CWR following their thrilling 3-2 win over Derby County.

"It was hard earned and well earned. I felt it was a big test for us, against a good team in good form, play-off form, fighting for that we're fighting for," he said.

"I'm delighted with the boys, they dealt with the game that was in front of them and, yeah, it's a big win."

On two-goal hero Jack Rudoni: "I said, 'are you ready for half an hour?' and he said 'I'm ready for more than that'.

"The biggest thing is not just his talent, but his hunger to come in and do stuff with his team. The first goal was incredible and then the other goal is a clinical finish. I loved it."

📹 Inter eye 3rd straight win, but São Paulo snatch late draw

📹 Inter eye 3rd straight win, but São Paulo snatch late draw: 📹 Inter eye 3rd straight win, but São Paulo snatch late draw

At Beira-Rio, Internacional and São Paulo drew 1-1 this Wednesday (1) in the opening match of the ninth round of the 2026 Brasileirão.

Despite an even start, with both teams creating chances, the first half belonged to Inter.

In fact, before the 25-minute mark, Bruno Gomes found Aguirre on the right wing, and he sent in a low cross for Alerrandro to redirect into the net.

Making his debut for Tricolor Paulista, Artur caused some danger for the goal defended by Anthoni, but the visitors lacked accuracy in their finishing.

After the break, Bruno Tabata fell badly on the pitch after an aerial challenge with Wendell. 

The situation caused concern among the players, and the referee activated the concussion protocol so that Tabata could be replaced by Alan Rodríguez.

📸 Pedro H. Tesch - 2026 Getty Images

In the final stretch of the match, São Paulo increased the pressure in search of an equalizer and, even with little attacking creativity, achieved their goal through Calleri.

After a perfect cross from Wendell on the left and a terrible mistake by goalkeeper Anthoni coming off his line, the striker appeared at the far post to level the score.

At the final whistle, Inter’s fans booed the team as they left the pitch.

---

🚦 Standings

With the result, São Paulo ended their run of two straight defeats, moved up to 17 points, and reclaimed second place.

Internacional, meanwhile, who came close to suffering a third straight defeat, stayed on nine points and dropped to 13th place.

Tricolor Paulista return to action on Saturday (4), when they host Cruzeiro at MorumBIS in the 10th round.

Colorado, meanwhile, visit Corinthians at Neo Química Arena on Sunday (5).

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

😯 Leaving Roma, Dybala on Flamengo and Boca Juniors' radar

😯 Leaving Roma, Dybala on Flamengo and Boca Juniors' radar: 😯 Leaving Roma, Dybala on Flamengo and Boca Juniors' radar

Flamengo is reportedly one of the clubs interested in signing Dybala starting in July this year.

According to Argentine journalist Cesar Luis Merlo, a columnist for UOL, the Rubro-Negro has already been in talks with the 32-year-old player, with the idea of offering him a four-year contract. 

Dybala is under contract with Roma until the end of June. And he is not expected to renew.

Boca would be the other club keeping an eye on the Argentine forward. 

He is in his fourth season with the capital club. And he is recovering from surgery on the meniscus in his left knee, carried out at the beginning of March.

He is expected to be available again by the end of this month of April. It is his fourth spell on the sidelines since October.

His 2025/2026 campaign stands at 22 matches — 14 of them as a starter — with three goals and four assists.

He stood out greatly between 2022 and 2024, when he scored 34 times and contributed 17 assists in his first two seasons with the Giallorossi.

Dybala came through at Instituto de Córdoba. And he was signed by Italian side Palermo after impressing in Argentina in 2012.

The next step was his spell at Juventus. A club he represented for seven years, with 115 goals and 53 assists across 293 matches. 

---

He was a World Cup champion in 2022

Dybala has made 40 appearances for Argentina’s senior national team. With four goals scored.

He was part of the squad that won the World Cup in Qatar and played a decisive role despite being used sparingly.

He spent 16 minutes on the pitch in the semifinal win and came on only for the penalty shootout in the final.

He converted Argentina’s second spot kick, helping secure the title against France. 

📸 FRANCK FIFE

He was last called up in September 2024 and then lost his place in the group that will contest this year’s World Cup. 

---

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

How Arsenal are building something 'special' in Europe

How Arsenal are building something 'special' in Europe: Stina Blackstenius scored the winning goal in last season's final [Getty Images]

Arsenal had a fairytale ending in Europe last season - but can they produce something magical again?

The European champions secured their spot in the semi-finals of the Women's Champions League with a 3-2 aggregate victory over rivals Chelsea.

Despite a late 1-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, Arsenal had already given themselves a two-goal advantage in the first leg at the Emirates.

It was an assured display from Renee Slegers' side as they defended bravely, were ruthless in the moments that mattered and held their nerve to progress.

They look at home on the main stage and Slegers could not hide her smile when asked if Arsenal were building more history.

"I think it's special to be a part of this. I really enjoy working with these people every day and the process we're in," said Slegers.

"The performances and the results that we're getting [is good] but it's the every day stuff for me. It's special. I think everyone feels this way about what we're doing at the moment.

"We can never get comfortable in this, even though we need to enjoy it. We have to keep on striving for more and better."

'The team invest so much'

Chelsea were more than competitive across both legs and had their fair share of chances at Stamford Bridge.

Alyssa Thompson and Lauren James hit the woodwork at the Emirates before Arsenal took the lead, and Veerle Buurman did the same on Wednesday before team-mate Sjoeke Nusken found a breakthrough, albeit too late for a comeback.

However, Arsenal felt in control throughout the tie.

When momentum shifted in Chelsea's favour, Arsenal did not look rattled. They defended resolutely and did enough to disrupt the tempo of the game.

When chances came their way, Arsenal capitalised. They knew Chelsea would respond, but looked ready for the chaos that occured late on in west London.

In previous seasons, it was Chelsea who people described as the 'mentality monsters' but Arsenal have shown resilience in abundance.

This is a club who belong in the Champions League.

"Playing a game is never comfortable. But we have built some experience. I have as a coach, and the team has from the experiences we had last year and before that," said Slegers.

"How the team do everything together and invest so much, earning the right to be an Arsenal player every day, their humility and everything, that is why I'm so happy they get this.

"They work so hard and they deserve to get to the semi-finals of the Champions League. That's a dream for every player."

• Bompastor angry with VAR after McCabe hair pull

'Suffering for something you love'

Slegers described an "unbelievable performance" in the second leg because of the fightback Arsenal knew Chelsea would give.

Goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar returned to the starting XI and put in a stunning performance, denying Sam Kerr on several occasions in the second half.

England defender Lotte Wubben-Moy was a rock at the back in the absence of Leah Williamson and Arsenal were not shaken when fellow centre-half Steph Catley went off with a calf injury at the end of the first half.

In-form striker Alessia Russo was full of tricks and flicks. The England international usually keeps touches on the ball to a minimum but she did what it took to escape tricky situations when pressure was building.

Slegers said her team were prepared to "suffer" in order to get what they wanted and it paid off in the end.

"It's suffering for something you love. I think that's what the team did really well. They were prepared for a difficult scenario and for momentum shifts," she added.

"In the first 15 minutes, potentially at the end of the game when things changed again, they just stayed in the 'controlled middle', as we call it.

"They stayed in the game and were constantly in control of whatever scenario or momentum swing. They did their job. Mentally we were in control.

"Of course, we wanted to stop them getting chances and in an ideal world there are no shots but it was two really good teams going against each other."

Former England captain Steph Houghton said Arsenal were "better in big moments" and deserved to progress on the balance of the tie.

Brighton forward Fran Kirby added: "Arsenal allowed Chelsea to have the ball, they were comfortable in their block and defensively worked really hard.

"With the opportunities that they had, they could even have gone on and won the game, so they will be really proud of the performance.

"It showed a different side to Arsenal. It showed what they can do when they have to defend."

Arsenal will hope to book their place in the final when they take on the winner between Lyon and Wolfsburg - who play each other on Thursday night.

The final takes place on 23 May in Oslo, Norway.

[BBC]

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie are back for another season of the Women's Football Weekly podcast. New episodes drop every Tuesday on BBC Sounds, plus find interviews and extra content from the Women's Super League and beyond on the Women's Football Weekly feed

• Get the latest WSL news on our dedicated page

Bompastor angry with VAR after McCabe hair pull

Bompastor angry with VAR after McCabe hair pull:

Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor said her players "do not deserve that level of refereeing" after Arsenal's Katie McCabe avoided a red card for pulling Alyssa Thompson's hair during their Champions League quarter-final exit.

The Blues were chasing a late leveller after scoring a stoppage-time goal to make it 3-2 on aggregate when McCabe reached out and tugged Thompson's hair.

The American winger was breaking forward, but McCabe escaped a yellow card and the video assistant referee (VAR) did not advise referee Frida Mia Klarlundto review the incident.

Bompastor was shown a yellow card for angrily protesting against the decision and then sent off for her continued outburst - although she refused to leave the touchline as Arsenal held on to reach the semi-finals.

The Frenchwoman arrived prepared with her mobile phone so she could show a replay of the incident as she gave a furious interview to BBC Two.

"For me, it is clearly a red card for the Arsenal player. She's pulling Alyssa Thompson's hair," Bompastor said.

"If the VAR is not able to check that situation, I don't know why we have the VAR.

"I'm the one getting a red card when I think the Arsenal player should be the one getting a red card."

Shortly after full-time, McCabe posted on Instagram: "I just want to clarify that I was genuinely reaching for the shirt. I wouldn't ever want to pull someone's hair. Full respect to Thompson."

Former England captain Steph Houghton said: "It doesn't look great, does it? Chelsea had just scored, Thompson was driving with the ball. It is really, really cynical and it doesn't look great."

Bompastor said Thompson was "crying and emotional" after the game.

"She's trying her best on the pitch in both games and it is not good enough - when you are playing football and someone pulls your hair, it's bad," she added.

After both players went to ground, McCabe appeared to apologise to Thompson.

"I didn't see the incident on the pitch when it was happening but I did see Katie going to Alyssa to apologise," Arsenal boss Renee Slegers said.

"My assumption is it's not intentional but it is of course unlucky."

Brighton midfielder Fran Kirby said: "It's a surprise that they've not looked back at that on VAR. I don't think McCabe means to grab Thompson's hair. I think she goes to grab her shirt."

• How Arsenal are building something 'special' in Europe

After the first leg at Emirates Stadium, Bompastor criticised the standard of officiating and called for "more respect" in the women's game after her side had two goals disallowed.

"Tonight we are speaking too much about the referees and that was the case last week," Bompastor said.

"But everyone needs to understand that's the difference between being qualified and not being qualified. It has a big impact on players.

"I'm really proud of my players, I think they gave everything and they don't deserve that level of refereeing again."

Joan Laporta calls for FIFA action after Raphinha injury

Joan Laporta calls for FIFA action after Raphinha injury: Joan Laporta calls for FIFA action after Raphinha injury

In recent days, Barcelona have been rocked by the news of Raphinha being ruled out for much of the remainder of the season after he injured his hamstring whilst on international duty. The Catalans will have to do without their star winger for the next 4-5 weeks, which is a crushing blow for Hansi Flick.

There has been ignominy within Barcelona regarding the situation, and this feeling has now been communicated by president-elect Joan Laporta. This week, he spoke to Món Esport (via MD), with one of the subjects being Raphinha’s recent setback, which he hopes will lead to FIFA taking action.

“In some way we should demand FIFA to make an international calendar that takes into account the competitions that the most important clubs have. It is true that in a friendly match between France and Brazil in the United States, one of our best players in the squad getting injured is very annoying.

“And it’s clear, you can’t transfer the responsibility of not playing to the player either, because they are professionals and, moreover, they play for their country and give everything.”

Laporta: Flick talks will happen in the summer

Laporta also confirmed that contract renewal talks will take place with Flick at the end of the season, with the focus being that he and the rest of the first team setup are fully focused on making sure that Barcelona end the season on a positive note.

“At the end of the season, we will talk about it calmly. He doesn’t have that need. He is a very honest man with himself and very professional. I think he has earned the renewal, but he prefers to talk about it at the end of the season, analyse the situation and decide what to do. If we do one more year, it already has it. I think he has the feeling that, if he had many years of contract, someone might think that he relaxes.”

Celtic 'stripped of quality' ahead of massive title fight

Celtic 'stripped of quality' ahead of massive title fight:

Can Martin O'Neill trust the Celtic players to step up in the Scottish Premiership title race.

Following their second loss at Tannadice this season just before the international break, O'Neil's side now need to make up a five point deficit to be in with a chance of securing their 56th Scottish Premiership title.

The Parkhead club have won 11 of the last 12 league titles but face a tough test if they want to pick up their fifth top flight win in a row.

The departure of key players - including the likes of Kyogo Furuhashi and Nicolas Kuhn - as well as manager Brendan Rodgers' resignation and the abysmal tenure of Wilfried Nancy have all contributed to Celtic's woes this term.

And Paul John Dykes of the Celtic State of Mind Podcast blames recruitment for their surprising drop off this season.

"You should be able to dip into a squad where you've got enough quality," he told the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast.

"But if you haven't been doing the business in the transfer windows for a number of seasons, then you don't have that quality.

"I think we've been stripped of quality.

"You look at the fact that we lost players like Nicolas Kuhn and even Adam Idah this season. They've not been sufficiently replaced."

Chasing a sixth Premiership victory in a row, Celtic and their supporters are no strangers to the pressures of a title race.

Dykes is hopeful that Hearts and Rangers' inexperience will see them falter, but lacks the confidence to fully believe his side will win the title.

"Rangers are currently the form team," he added.

"Hearts have been the most consistent team over the season and Celtic have been all over the place. Somehow, Martin O'Neill managed to get some kind of rhythm and fluidity to the team and a bit of belief and some unity.

"But even that has been doubted and questioned over the last couple of weeks.

"Will any of the three sides win the last seven? If you're looking at this season, Celtic, the most consistent we've been is five league games on the bounce. Hearts are six, Rangers are six. So I don't think any of the three teams will win all seven.

"It's just a case of playing players at the moment that you can trust. There's a lot of players in our squad that we simply cannot trust."

When will Noni Madueke return from injury for Arsenal?

When will Noni Madueke return from injury for Arsenal?: When will Noni Madueke return from injury for Arsenal?

Reports on Noni Madueke’s injury timeline have started to emerge, and it’s largely good news for the Arsenal winger.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Sebastian Stafford-Bloor and Art de Roche report for The Athletic that their sources believe Noni Madueke’s injury is a minor issue, despite the player leaving Wembley Stadium wearing a brace on his knee following a setback in the friendly against Uruguay.

Madueke is reportedly likely to miss Arsenal’s FA Cup quarter-final match against Southampton on Saturday, and he’s a doubt for the following game away to Sporting CP.

But it seems the expectation is that he’ll be back after that, with Arsenal to face Bournemouth, Sporting CP again, and Manchester City over the following week and a half.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

It’s certainly good news that Arsenal might be able to call on Madueke for those matches.

In the meantime, perhaps Max Dowman might find himself with a bigger role to play. Bukayo Saka can’t play every game, particularly given he’s just pulled out of the international break with discomfort himself.

Considering Arsenal’s next game is a cup tie against lower-league opposition, it could be the perfect time to include Dowman in Madueke’s absence, allowing Saka some rest as well.

Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Madueke will hope he still has a major part to play in Arsenal’s hunt for trophies over the final couple of months of the season, and that he can use those matches to prove himself ahead of Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad selection.

Man arrested over alleged racist abuse at Tyne-Wear derby

Man arrested over alleged racist abuse at Tyne-Wear derby:

A 45-year-old man has been arrested following a report of racist abuse during last month’s Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland.

Northumbria Police said the man, from Gateshead, was detained in relation to an alleged incident at the Premier League clash at St James’s Park, in Newcastle, on March 22.

A force spokesman stated the man was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of a racially-aggravated public order offence and has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Phil Guard said: “Racial abuse has absolutely no place in football or in our communities and we will not tolerate this type of behaviour.

“Following proactive policing enquiries and close partnership working with both clubs and their supporters, a suspect has been arrested.

Geertruida was praised for reporting the alleged incident to the match officials (Getty Images)

“They have since been bailed with robust conditions while the investigation continues.”

Mr Guard said: “We will continue to work with clubs, supporters and partner agencies to tackle any form of criminality at football matches.”

Referee Anthony Taylor briefly paused the game and spoke to both managers and club officials during the early stages of the second half after an incident was reported to him.

Newcastle later said in a statement that they were aware of a report of racism made by a visiting player against someone in the crowd.

Sunderland subsequently praised their defender, Lutsharel Geertruida, for “displaying bravery and leadership by reporting this incident to the match officials”.

Taylor was approached by Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka in the 52nd minute, when the game was already stopped due to an injury to Newcastle’s Sven Botman.

Sunderland won the game 2-1 to complete a domestic double over their rivals this season, after beating the Magpies 1-0 at the Stadium of Light in December.

Anthony Gordon had put Newcastle ahead early on, but Sunderland battled back to equalise through Chemsdine Talbi in the 57th minute.

Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey then secured all three points for his team with a 90th-minute winner.

What Chelsea need to do to stop the losses

What Chelsea need to do to stop the losses: [Getty Images]

It is important to note that Chelsea have not yet released their full accounts, which will soon be published at Companies House and are expected to provide a more detailed picture.

The only information currently available is from the statement made by Chelsea on Wednesday.

"People ask whether Chelsea are a football club or a hedge‑fund experiment. I don't think these accounts offer any clearer answer. We are still waiting to see the full picture on Companies House," said football finance expert Kieran Maguire.

He said the figures highlighted the importance of Champions League football to a club that is currently sixth in the Premier League.

He added: "For every one pound you receive from broadcasting [in the Champions League], you only get 11p in the Conference League, and it is much harder for the marketing department to sell a hospitality box for a match against the second‑best team in Denmark than when Barcelona come to town."

There are also concerns that Stamford Bridge is beginning to look dated, leaving Chelsea at risk of falling behind their rivals, particularly with new Premier League squad-cost ratio rules coming into force this summer.

These replace PSR and allow clubs to spend 85% of their total revenues on squad-related costs.

"Chelsea have only a 40,000‑capacity stadium and are around half of Manchester United's size, and probably £50-60m behind others," Maguire added.

"With the introduction of the new squad‑cost ratio rules, it is really important for clubs to boost revenue wherever they can.

"Chelsea are simply behind their rivals, with less to spend on players - and that will take its toll over time."

Maguire agreed it was unlikely Chelsea would breach Premier League regulations.

Chelsea made a £128.4m profit last year - almost entirely due to the sale of their women's team to themselves, a loophole that has since been closed.

It means pre-tax losses over the past three years are about £220m in total, but Maguire said that Chelsea would have needed to submit the losses accounted for under PSR by 31 December.

"The lack of any news suggests the league is satisfied with their PSR figures," Maguire said.

Arsenal star ‘frustrated and grumpy’ over injury setback

Arsenal star ‘frustrated and grumpy’ over injury setback: Arsenal star ‘frustrated and grumpy’ over injury setback

Norway boss lifts lid on Odegaard mood as reports point to return against Southampton after cautious cup final call

Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Martin Odegaard has not enjoyed watching from the sidelines, with his national coach revealing that Arsenal’s captain has been left “frustrated and grumpy” by his latest injury setback.

The midfielder has been managing his second knee problem of the season since the win at Tottenham Hotspur on 22 February, with Mikel Arteta determined not to risk him before he is fully ready.

“He is very frustrated and grumpy,” said Stale Solbakken, who was without Odegaard for Norway’s friendlies against the Netherlands and Switzerland, at the start of the international break.

“He has not been involved since we beat Moldova [in September]. It is his last international match. He was not on the field against Israel, Estonia or Italy. It is clear that it hurts.

“Now, it is three weeks until Arsenal play again, or two-and-a-half weeks. I think it could be a goal for Martin to be in a squad [for his club] then. It is within reach.

“There is no reason for him to travel now. He has to train [with Arsenal].

“If he wants to use a day off to come here, he is welcome to do so, but it is not something that has been planned.”

That timetable tallies with reports in England suggesting that Odegaard is in line for a comeback in Arsenal’s next match against Southampton on Saturday.

Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images

John Cross wrote that, although Odegaard has missed the last seven games, he was close to returning for the League Cup final and there is hope he will be available after the international break.

Having struggled with his knee, the problem now appears to have cleared up, and the expectation is that he will be fit for the run-in.

Ryan Taylor added that Odegaard is targeting a return in the FA Cup tie against Southampton after working hard behind the scenes to get back to full fitness, and that there had been some thought he might even make the bench at Wembley before the decision was taken to hold him back.

Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

That call, to prioritise his fitness rather than gamble on a cup final, underlines how important Arsenal consider their captain to be with the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup still in play.

Odegaard was left out of Norway’s squad for this March window, with his country playing only friendly fixtures, and any temptation to push him through for those games was sensibly been resisted with the World Cup looming in the summer.

In total, Odegaard has missed 22 games this season with shoulder and knee problems, all stemming from contact injuries.