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Articles by Ivan Kovbasa
Mourinho attacks referee after Atletico defeat: 'These are two clear red cards'
Jose Mourinho has strongly criticised the refereeing after Real Madrid’s 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid, insisting two Atletico players should have been sent off. The Portuguese manager brought photographs of challenges on Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham to his press conference and pointed to them as evidence. “We can save ourselves time because the story of the match is right here. These are two clear red cards,” Mourinho said.
Luis Enrique adopts tougher approach as PSG competition intensifies
Luis Enrique has changed his approach at Paris Saint-Germain this season, introducing stronger competition within the squad as he looks to keep every player involved. The Spaniard has already shown he is willing to substitute established names, leave players on the bench for an entire match or leave them out of the squad. Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele were both withdrawn at half-time against Rennes, while other senior players have also faced reduced roles.
Real Madrid seek clarity before making move for Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel - reports
Real Madrid are carefully examining the situation surrounding Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel before deciding whether to push ahead with a move for the highly rated teenager. Gabriel, who is set to leave United at just 15, has attracted significant interest from both Real Madrid and Barcelona, with Bayern Munich also monitoring his situation. Barcelona have recently emerged as a serious option, but Madrid remain interested, according to Diario AS.
Andros Townsend suffers bizarre accident: Former England winger struck by pitch roller before Thai League match
Former England winger Andros Townsend suffered an unfortunate accident while warming up for PT Prachuap before their Thai League fixture against Pattani. Townsend, who previously played in the Premier League, was preparing for the match when he was reportedly struck by a pitch roller. The incident occurred shortly before kick-off and left the former Tottenham and Crystal Palace player needing medical attention.
Spain confirm Luis de la Fuente renewal through 2030 World Cup
Luis de la Fuente will remain Spain head coach through the 2030 World Cup, RFEF president Rafael Louzan has confirmed. Speaking at the World Football Summit, Louzan praised De la Fuente’s record and said the federation were finalising an agreement to keep him for several more years. The deal is expected to include a significant salary increase, reportedly placing De la Fuente among the five highest-paid international managers. The new contract follows an extraordinary period for Spain.
Araujo pays tribute to Messi after Argentina retirement announcement
Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo sent an emotional message of respect and admiration to Lionel Messi following the Argentine star's announcement that he will retire from international football. The FC Barcelona defender, currently on loan at Liverpool, shared a dressing room with the Rosario-born star at the Catalan club.
Deportivo assemble squad of familiar names and winning fans over: Not long ago they were in third tier
Before the start of a season, any newly promoted team in a top league is usually expected to do one thing: fight for survival. Unless they are coming up to the Premier League, such clubs are generally limited financially and have to choose from players several levels below the established stars. Deportivo La Coruna, however, are looking to break that pattern.
Julian Alvarez tries to read Iraola's instructions as Mac Allister reveals how he hid paper
Liverpool's clash with Atletico Madrid featured a small off-field battle that had nothing to do with the ball. Julian Alvarez approached Alexis Mac Allister and tried to read the piece of paper containing instructions he had received from the Liverpool bench. Andoni Iraola had sent tactical instructions to his midfielder, and Atletico forward Alvarez, Mac Allister's Argentina teammate, spotted an opportunity to take a look.
Sabah phenomenon: Club did not exist nine years ago, now they will face Barcelona and Man United in Champions League
Azerbaijani side Sabah are making their Champions League debut and were one of the surprises of qualifying. In the first Matchday, the Owls will travel to face Manchester United on Thursday. We take a look at how a club with just nine years of history reached the Champions League so quickly, how Ukrainians have contributed to their development and where the money comes from. Sabah were founded in 2017 by the Bridge Group of Companies.
The Athletic reveals its 2026 Ballon d’Or top 10
The Athletic have ranked the 10 players they believe have the strongest chances of winning the 2026 Ballon d'Or, with Harry Kane leading the list. The 30 nominees for this year's award were officially announced on Tuesday, September 8. Bayern Munich have four players among the candidates: Kane, Michael Olise, Luis Diaz and Dayot Upamecano. According to The Athletic, Kane is currently the leading contender to claim the prestigious individual prize.
Ferran Torres scores hat-trick against Slovan Bratislava
Ferran Torres has made an instant impact for Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, scoring a hat-trick against Slovan Bratislava. The 26-year-old forward found the net three times during the opening matchday of the league phase, scoring in the 31st, 47th and 57th minutes. They were Torres’ first Champions League goals for PSG since joining the French club. His treble helped PSG establish a commanding 5-1 lead by the 69th minute.
Barcelona hit 22 goals in first five games for first time since 1950
Barcelona have made their most prolific start to a season in decades, scoring 22 goals across their first five competitive matches. Hansi Flick’s side added five more in Wednesday’s 5-1 Champions League victory over Feyenoord. Before that, Barcelona beat Valencia 5-0, Rayo Vallecano 5-2, Athletic Club 2-0 and Elche 5-0. The Catalan giants have therefore scored at least 22 goals in their opening five matches for the first time since 1950.
Yamal breaks Mbappe’s Champions League record for players under 20
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has set a new Champions League record for goal contributions by a player under 20. The 19-year-old scored from a free-kick and provided an assist during Barcelona’s 5-1 victory over Feyenoord on Matchday one of the league phase. According to Opta Joe, Yamal now has 21 goal contributions in the competition, consisting of 11 goals and 10 assists. He has surpassed Kylian Mbappe’s previous record of 20 goal contributions before turning 20.
What if every club had to start academy player every week? For some top clubs, it would be nightmare
Almost every big club tells the same story. The academy is part of its identity, young players are the future, and the pathway from the youth teams to the first team must remain open. Then summer arrives, the manager demands immediate results and a new backup is signed for €35 million for exactly the position where the academy's biggest talent is waiting. So what if football simply stopped leaving that decision entirely up to clubs?
Perfume almost ruined Viking captain’s historic Champions League debut: Here’s what happened
For the first time in 27 years, two Norwegian clubs have reached the league phase of the Champions League. While Bodo/Glimt have already made a name for themselves in Europe with their sensational run last season, reaching the last 16 and picking up wins over Manchester City and Inter, everything is new territory for Viking.
Lionel Messi nominated for 2026 Ballon d'Or
Lionel Messi / Photo: Getty Lionel Messi has been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d'Or after another outstanding campaign with Inter Miami. The Argentina captain recorded 45 goals and 30 assists in 49 appearances during the 2025/26 season, while helping Inter Miami win the MLS Cup. His remarkable individual numbers and continued influence at club level have earned him another place among the world’s leading players.
Goalkeeper of the Year: 10 nominees announced
Goalkeeper of the Year: 10 nominees announced / Photo: ballondor.com The 2026 Ballon d'Or Goalkeeper of the Year shortlist features 10 outstanding players from across the world. Matvey Safonov is recognised after stepping into a bigger role at Paris-SG following Gianluigi Donnarumma’s departure, with his ability to operate outside the penalty area proving valuable.
Five clubs nominated for Men's Club of the Year
Five clubs have been nominated for the 2026 Men's Club of the Year Ballon d'Or Trophy. Arsenal represent England after winning the Premier League, while Bayern Munich are included following a trophy-filled campaign in Germany, claiming the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup. Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt also feature after lifting the Norwegian Cup.
Five managers have been nominated for the 2026 Men's Coach of the Year award, with some of Europe's biggest names making the shortlist. Mikel Arteta is recognised for his work with Arsenal, while Spain boss Luis de la Fuente is also among the candidates following his success with the national team. Unai Emery represents Aston Villa, with Vincent Kompany nominated after his work at Bayern Munich. Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique completes the shortlist.
Barcelona warn Hansi Flick to avoid Mourinho as Clasico rivalry heats up: 'Not word about Jose'
Barcelona have reportedly warned Hansi Flick to stay away from discussions about Jose Mourinho following the Portuguese's return to the Real Madrid dugout. According to Diario SPORT, the club reminded Flick of the controversy surrounding Mourinho's first spell in Madrid, including his clashes with Pep Guardiola and the infamous incident involving Tito Vilanova. The message was simple: “Not a word about Mourinho or Real Madrid.” Flick has already shown that he intends to follow those instructions.
Hansi Flick sets new Barcelona benchmark as he overtakes Guardiola and Luis Enrique
Hansi Flick has added another remarkable achievement to his Barcelona reign after the club’s 5-0 victory over Valencia. The emphatic win at Mestalla gave Barcelona a perfect start to the La Liga season, while Flick also reached a historic milestone after his first 80 league matches in charge. The German has now won 63 of those games, the best record of any Barcelona manager at this stage.
Inter legend Bergomi reveals what club must do to beat Madrid: 'If we go out there just to defend, we won’t stand chance'
Inter Milan legend Giuseppe Bergomi has called for courage from his former club ahead of their Champions League clash with Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. Bergomi, who faced Madrid 10 times during his playing career, believes Inter cannot simply sit deep and hope to survive. “I hope Inter show courage. If we go out there just to defend, we won’t stand a chance,” Bergomi told AS. He believes Inter should instead try to compete in midfield, particularly with Real Madrid missing several important players.
Real Madrid plan Jude Bellingham contract renewal after stunning start under Mourinho
Real Madrid are seriously considering a new contract for Jude Bellingham despite the midfielder already being tied to the club until 2029. According to Ramon Alvarez de Mon, the Spanish giants want to address the England international’s contractual situation early and reward his importance to the team. Bellingham joined Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in 2023 for an initial €103 million fee and has quickly established himself as one of the club’s most influential players.
Harry Kane happy to be in Ballon d’Or contention after 73-goal season: 'I am pretty amazed by that'
Harry Kane says he is happy to be in contention for the 2026 Ballon d’Or after producing the second-highest goalscoring season in football history. The Bayern Munich forward scored 73 goals for club and country last season, with only Lionel Messi’s 82-goal campaign in 2011/12 surpassing his tally. Kane scored 61 times for Bayern and added 12 for England. “I’m extremely proud of the season I put up, for sure,” Kane told TNT Sports.
Real Madrid enter Champions League with Europe’s most valuable squad worth $1.69 billion
Real Madrid head into the new Champions League campaign as the competition’s most valuable squad, with their team valued at $1.69 billion. Madrid rank ahead of Manchester City, whose squad is worth $1.66 billion, while Paris Saint-Germain complete the top three at $1.58 billion. Arsenal ($1.54bn), Barcelona ($1.46bn), Bayern Munich ($1.21bn) and Liverpool ($1.19bn) are the other clubs valued above $1 billion.
Flick considers Raphinha is Barcelona's first-choice No. 9
Hansi Flick has explained why he continues to use Raphinha as Barcelona’s central striker at the beginning of the new La Liga campaign. The Brazilian has started all three league matches in the No. 9 role and has quickly justified his manager’s decision, scoring five goals during that run. Raphinha has also been handed the captaincy after being chosen as Barcelona’s first captain for the 2026/27 season.
Flick prepares Jules Kounde for another role ahead of Valencia clash
Hansi Flick is considering using Jules Kounde in central defence after testing the Barcelona defender there during training ahead of the trip to Valencia. The Frenchman has featured primarily at right-back in recent seasons, where he has often produced his strongest performances. However, Barcelona’s limited options in the centre could force Flick to make greater use of his versatility.
Vinicius faces growing pressure as Guler and Diomande emerge
Vinicius Junior remains one of Jose Mourinho’s untouchable players at Real Madrid, but his influence no longer appears as unquestionable as it once was. The Brazilian has struggled to reproduce the performances that previously made him one of Madrid’s most decisive attacking threats. His ability to change games from the left flank has been less evident, raising questions about his current place in the team’s hierarchy.
Mbappe's penalty record at Real Madrid worsens after another miss against Betis
Kylian Mbappe’s missed penalty against Real Betis has brought an old weakness back into focus, with the Real Madrid forward now failing to convert one in every five spot-kicks for the club. Alvaro Valles denied him at La Cartuja, adding another miss to a record that is less reliable than those of Madrid’s previous penalty specialists. Overall, Mbappe has missed 16 of his 81 penalties outside shootouts, giving him a failure rate of 19.7%.
Carlos Tevez to receive Boca farewell match with Messi and Ronaldo invited
Carlos Tevez will finally receive his long-awaited farewell match at Boca Juniors, with La Bombonera set to host the event in December. The former Argentina striker has agreed the plans with Boca president Juan Roman Riquelme, his former teammate, who will make the stadium available. The exact date remains undecided, with December 12–13 and December 19–20 being considered.
Real Madrid suffer first defeat of the season as Betis snatch late win
Real Madrid have suffered their first defeat of the season after Real Betis secured a dramatic 1-0 victory. Jose Mourinho’s side created several chances but were unable to break the deadlock. Vinicius Junior hit the post in the first half, while Dean Huijsen also struck the crossbar with a header shortly before the interval. Betis grew into the match after half-time and eventually found the breakthrough in the 81st minute.
Paris Saint-Germain have suffered their second defeat of the season after Monaco came from behind to win 2-1 in Ligue 1. PSG took the lead in the 31st minute when captain Marquinhos converted from close range following Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s corner. Luis Enrique’s side held onto their advantage until half-time. However, Monaco produced a strong response after the break.
Luis Enrique extends PSG contract until 2030
Luis Enrique has agreed to remain Paris Saint-Germain’s head coach until 2030 after transforming the club into European champions. Since arriving in 2023, the Spaniard has won 12 trophies with PSG: three Ligue 1 titles, two Champions League crowns, two UEFA Super Cups, two French Super Cups, two French Cups trophies and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. His biggest achievement came in 2025, when PSG finally lifted their first Champions League trophy.
Barcelona plan surprise amusement park at Camp Nou to boost club revenue
Barcelona are exploring plans to build a small amusement park inside the Spotify Camp Nou complex as they look for further ways to increase revenue. The proposal comes after the club surpassed €1 billion in revenue for the 2025/26 season, with the return to Camp Nou playing a major role in that growth. According to Diario SPORT, the amusement park project will be presented to Barcelona members for approval at the club’s Ordinary and Extraordinary General Assembly on September 19.
PSG secure futures of five key players with contract extensions
Paris Saint-Germain have announced a major round of contract extensions, with five players committing their futures to the French champions. Lucas Beraldo, Senny Mayulu, Joao Neves, Willian Pacho and Fabian Ruiz have all signed new deals with the club. The move highlights PSG’s desire to maintain the core of their squad and continue building on their recent success.
Youssouf Fofana’s move to Lyon collapses as midfielder considers offers from Turkey - Romano
AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana’s proposed move to Lyon has collapsed, with the two clubs confirming that the transfer will not go ahead. The midfielder had been expected to return to France and join Olympique Lyonnais, but the deal has now fallen through after negotiations failed to reach a final agreement. Fofana is therefore set to remain available on the transfer market as he considers his next destination.
Messi closes in on all-time free-kick record: 74 goals and counting
Lionel Messi has moved even closer to the top of the all-time free-kick scoring charts after another remarkable set-piece display. The Argentine now has 74 direct free-kick goals, placing him second in history and just four behind Brazilian legend Marcelinho, who leads the list with 78. Messi moved ahead of several legendary names, including Roberto Dinamite, Juninho, Assuncao, Sinisa Mihajlovic and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi scores four in Inter Miami demolition: Two free-kick masterpieces take him to 927 goals
Lionel Messi delivered a performance that felt almost unreal, scoring four goals and providing an assist as Inter Miami demolished Montreal 7-1. The Argentine was directly involved in five of Miami’s seven goals, but the numbers barely tell the full story. Messi scored twice from free kicks, producing two stunning set-piece finishes in the same match. At one point, it genuinely looked less like football and more like the Argentine was drawing his own masterpiece on the pitch.
The beauty that ECLIPSES sport: Spain’s hottest female fans steal spotlight with photos taking Instagram by storm
Forget the goals and tactical moves for a moment, because the real protagonists of the Matchday are on Instagram. Every weekend, thousands of eyes are diverted from the scoreboards to a digital phenomenon that continues to grow. With a perfect combination of loyalty to their colours and undeniable magnetism, they have managed to steal the media spotlight this season. If you are wondering who is supporting Spanish clubs this season and who is leading this viral phenomenon, get ready to find out.
How football could change over the next 100 years?
Let us imagine for a moment that a football fan from 1926 could sit in the stands today. He would immediately recognise two goals, a ball, and eleven players against eleven. He might even understand pretty quickly why 60,000 people suddenly jump to their feet at the same time after a goal.
Rafael Leao closing in on Galatasaray move for €45M - Romano
Galatasaray are closing in on a major signing, with Rafael Leao reportedly giving the green light to a move from AC Milan. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Turkish giants are determined to complete the deal as quickly as possible. Aston Villa have made fresh contact with the player over the past 12 hours, but Galatasaray remain in pole position. Milan are expected to receive €45 million for the Portugal international, with additional bonuses included in the agreement.
From controversial parties and OnlyFans models to training on holiday: Lamine Yamal is changing his lifestyle
Over the past few years, Lamine Yamal has become one of the footballers who attracts perhaps the most media attention. He has become an idol for a generation born in the 2000s and even the 2010s. His family, relationships with girls, friends and how he spends his time away from the football pitch have all become regular features in the news. Lamine himself has also fuelled the attention, as he likes to post stories not only before matches but also while on holiday.
Atletico fans make Julian Alvarez feelings clear: 'Julian out' signs appear at training ground
Atletico Madrid have woken up to a clear message from their supporters, with signs calling for Julian Alvarez to leave the club appearing around the training complex in Majadahonda. Posters reading “JULIAN FUERA” (“JULIAN OUT”) and showing the striker's No. 19 crossed out were put up on Friday morning. The anger comes amid Alvarez's reported intention to leave Atletico and join Barcelona.
Manchester City’s treble-winning team fell apart in three years: Look how few players remain
Rodri’s move to Barcelona means Manchester City have lost another player from Pep Guardiola’s 2023 treble-winning squad. Three years have passed, but only five players from that team remain. Goalkeepers ❌ Ederson, Fenerbahce The team’s first-choice goalkeeper last season moved to Turkey, with Gianluigi Donnarumma arriving to replace him. ❌ Stefan Ortega, Olympiacos Ederson’s backup also left last summer, swapping City for Nottingham Forest.
Barcelona turn to Gyokeres after Ferran Torres’ PSG departure - reports
Barcelona are expected to make key moves in the coming hours to explore the possibility of signing Viktor Gyokeres. According to an exclusive report from Jose Alvarez on El Chiringuito de Jugones, the Swedish forward is emerging as Barcelona’s main attacking alternative following Ferran Torres’ move to Paris Saint-Germain. Torres left the Catalan club to reunite with Luis Enrique in Paris, with the transfer reportedly worth around €50 million.
Rodri misses Manchester City trip amid ongoing Barcelona negotiations
Rodri has not travelled with the Manchester City squad for the Community Shield, according to Jack Gaughan. The midfielder’s absence comes as negotiations between Manchester City and Barcelona continue over a potential transfer. Talks remain ongoing, with both clubs working towards reaching an agreement as soon as possible. Rodri has been strongly linked with a move to Barcelona throughout the summer and has reportedly made his desire to join the Catalan club clear.
Barcelona and Manchester City are €10M apart in Rodri negotiations
Barcelona and Manchester City are edging closer to an agreement over Rodri, with just €10 million currently separating the two clubs. According to MARCA, Barcelona’s latest proposal is worth €70m, consisting of €60m in fixed payments and a further €10m in bonuses. Manchester City, however, are asking for €80m in total. Despite the gap, there is optimism on both sides that a deal can be reached in the coming days.
Juventus make €10M offer for Dibu Martinez as Aston Villa consider sale
Juventus have returned with a formal offer for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, according to Tribuna.com. The Italian club have proposed €7 million in fixed payments plus a further €3m in performance-related bonuses for the Argentina international. Aston Villa have yet to accept the offer, but the situation remains open. The English club could be prepared to sell the 33-year-old following the imminent arrival of goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Rodri stays in regular contact with Barcelona players as €70m bid progresses
Rodri’s potential move from Manchester City to Barcelona is continuing to gather momentum, with the midfielder pushing for the transfer to be completed. According to Diario SPORT, Rodri remains in almost daily contact with several Barcelona players he knows from the Spanish national team. The midfielder has reportedly made his desire to join the Catalan club clear while negotiations continue between the two sides.
Dijon supporters can now enter matches using scarves instead of tickets
Dijon supporters have been given a new way to enter their club’s home matches, with scarves now doubling as match tickets. Each specially designed scarf contains a built-in chip that allows fans to access the stadium without carrying a traditional ticket. Supporters simply use the scarf at the entrance, where the embedded technology is scanned to verify their access.
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