The players Pérez’s XXL offer could land 🕵️A little game of Cluedo. With the Real Madrid presidential elections taking place this Sunday, June 7, Florentino Pérez made a huge splash on Thursday night.Appearing on the show Horizonte Cuatro, the club’s outgoing boss dropped a bombshell: if he is re-elected president, a €150 million offer will be sent on Tuesday in an attempt to sign “a young player,” “a Galáctico,” “a player of the caliber of Zidane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Beckham or Kaká”!Pérez then gave a few much more concrete clues: the player is a midfielder or a forward; he does not play in the Premier League; he plays in the Champions League; and it is neither Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Erling Haaland, nor Jérémy Doku.The possibilities are narrowing down!So OneFootball brought out its fake glasses, hole-punched newspaper, and magnifying glass to switch into “detective” mode.So who are the midfielders or forwards under 26 (young players), excluding Kane, Olise, Haaland, and Doku, who do not play in the Premier League but do play in the Champions League and have a market value of at least €100 million? The answer... is right below!Here is the full list of players who tick all those boxes!Lamine Yamal - FC BarcelonaPedri - FC Barcelona João Neves - PSGKhvicha Kvaratskhelia - PSGVitinha - PSGDésiré Doué - PSGFermín López - FC BarcelonaJamal Musiala - Bayern MunichJulián Álvarez - Atlético de MadridSo, any predictions?This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Enrique Riquelme aiming to rope in iconic Real Madrid midfielder to supercharge his presidential bidToni Kroos has become one of the biggest objectives in Enrique Riquelme’s ambitious plan ahead of the upcoming Real Madrid presidential elections.According to information revealed by COPE, the former Real Madrid midfielder is among the names that Riquelme hopes to incorporate into his project to support his challenge for the Real Madrid presidency. While no agreement has been announced, the interest shows the scale of the vision being presented by the presidential candidate.Kroos remains one of the most admired figures of Real Madrid’s modern era. Riquelme is trying to rope in Toni Kroos. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)After spending a decade at the club and winning numerous trophies, the German midfielder brought his playing career to an end in June 2024, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate strongly with supporters.Another icon on Riquelme’s listOver recent weeks, Riquelme has unveiled the foundations of his proposed sporting structure. Several well-known names from Real Madrid’s history have already been publicly confirmed as part of the initiative.Raul Gonzalez Blanco was announced as the candidate’s choice for sporting director, while Fernando Hierro has been identified as the figure who would oversee La Fábrica and help shape the academy’s future direction.Riquelme is building the foundation. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)The project has also attracted Iker Casillas, who is expected to take on an important role within the club’s organisational framework. On top of that, Riquelme recently revealed that Vicente del Bosque would also be involved in an advisory capacity and now, Kroos has emerged as another major target for the presidential hopeful. Given the respect he commands among Real Madrid supporters, his inclusion would undoubtedly strengthen the appeal of the project.The former midfielder’s emotional farewell at the Santiago Bernabeu remains fresh in the memory of many fans, making any potential return to the club a significant talking point.

Barcelona pushing to keep 20-goal sensation despite growing interest from PortugalBarcelona are continuing to work on the future of Joaquin Delgado, one of the standout performers in Spanish youth football over the past season.According to SPORT, the Catalan club remain interested in keeping the striker after an impressive loan spell. Delgado spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan from Oviedo and ended the season as the highest-scoring player across the entire Segunda RFEF.While Barcelona are already evaluating several options for their youth setup ahead of next season, Delgado has not been forgotten. In fact, the club is still exploring ways to ensure he remains part of their long-term plans.What is Barcelona’s plans?View this post on InstagramA post shared by Joaquín Delgado (@joaquin.dr)The report states that Barcelona are currently considering Oscar Gistau and Hamza Abdelkarim as potential centre-forward options for the youth team next season. However, that planning does not diminish the club’s appreciation of Delgado’s achievements.Notably, the young striker enjoyed a remarkable campaign at Oviedo, finishing with 20 goals and establishing himself as the most prolific scorer in Segunda RFEF, leaving a strong impression on decision-makers at Barcelona.The outlet confirms that discussions have already taken place between the player’s representative and the Catalan club. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Joaquín Delgado (@joaquin.dr)Those talks focused on finding a formula that would allow Barcelona to retain the striker and negotiate the €4 million buyout condition that had previously been agreed with Oviedo.Nothing is certainDespite the positive feelings from Barcelona’s side, the situation remains unresolved.This is because Delgado still has one year remaining on his contract with Oviedo and, unless an agreement is reached, he is expected to report for pre-season training with his parent club in the coming weeks.The challenge for Barcelona is that time may not be on their side, as Delgado already has multiple offers on the table, including interest from a club in Portugal’s top division.

European giants set to battle it out over Arsenal starRiccardo Calafiori is regarded as one of the finest defenders in Europe at present, with the Italian attracting interest from several of the continent’s leading clubs.He has spent two seasons at Arsenal, during which he has won one Premier League title while also reaching the finals of the Champions League and the Carabao Cup. His performances have continued to improve, and Mikel Arteta’s side are determined to keep him as a central figure in their plans. His consistency has made him a key presence in both domestic and European competitions.Rising European InterestHis development has not gone unnoticed across Europe, and his growing influence has placed him firmly on the radar of several elite clubs who are monitoring his progress closely. Observers have noted his tactical awareness and ability to adapt across different defensive roles.Both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are understood to admire the defender, viewing him as a top-level addition who could strengthen their squads ahead of the next season, although they are aware that securing a transfer would be extremely difficult. His versatility is seen as a major asset in modern elite football.Arsenal’s Transfer PositionArsenal are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer, with several departures anticipated as part of a wider squad reshaping. However, Calafiori is not among those considered for a possible exit due to his consistent and outstanding performances, as ESPN reports that Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have developed an interest in signing him. The speculation highlights his rapid rise within the game and the attention he is receiving from top European sides.The club view him as an important figure within Mikel Arteta’s system and would prefer to retain him ahead of other squad adjustments. As a result, his position at the Emirates Stadium is considered secure despite growing external interest. Arsenal’s hierarchy remain confident in his long-term importance to the squad structure._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsEuropean giants set to battle it out over Arsenal star 5 June 2026, 9:00The Day Jens Lehmann Made His Final Arsenal Appearance 4 June 2026, 23:00World Cup Predictions Game – Sign Up Deadline Monday! 4 June 2026, 22:30

Maria Costello, a motorcycle racer who was seriously injured in a crash at the Isle of Man TT, has been described as a "true trailblazer" in the sport. Costello and passenger Shaun Parker were injured in a sidecar crash in qualifying on 26 May. The 52-year-old remains in hospital in Liverpool and is currently paralysed with a long list of serious injuries including a broken back (T5 and T6 vertebrae), broken arm, multiple broken ribs, grade four large liver laceration, broken nose, broken eye socket, lacerations between the eyes and a broken sternum.Parker was treated in hospital on the Isle of Man after the crash, which happened at the Brandish section of the circuit.BBC Sport pundit and motorcycle racer Alanna Maher paid tribute to Costello, and said she had "set a path" for women in the sport."Maria is a real inspiration to me and so many other female bikers," Ulster Superbike rider Maher told BBC Sport NI."She has helped so many people in the sport and also helped bring dozens of young female riders through.She showed female riders what was possible and her example set a clear path for many to follow."Costello 'currently paralysed' after IOM TT crashTT sidecar class suspended on safety groundsIn a difficult event at the Isle of Man TT, Costello and Parker's crash happened after solo rider Daniel Ingham lost his life in a crash at Doran's Bend in an earlier qualifying session.In an untimed session on the opening day of the Isle of Man TT, eight spectators and a rider were injured when a bike went into the crowd at Parliament Square.On Wednesday, sidecar duo Ryan and Callum Crowe were involved in an accident at Crosby in a qualifying session.In response to that accident, sidecar racing was suspended for the remainder of the event. Costello made her debut on the Isle of Man at the Manx Grand Prix in 1996 and made her first TT appearance in 2002. She held the fastest lap from a female rider at the Isle of Man TT until 2009, and 10 years later she became the first woman to compete in both the sidecar and solo class at the same TT.Messages of support have poured in from across the world for Costello, reflecting her status as one of the most influential female figures in motorcycle sport.A fundraising campaign set up by supporters has already raised almost £200,000, with donations continuing to rise as the racing community rallies around her.Maher, speaking at the Isle of Man TT, said the news about Costello as "really awful to hear"."There are so few female racers - when something like this happens to someone who's led the way for so many of us, it resonates even more.""Seeing is believing," she said. "If a young girl sees another girl on the podium, it gives you that feeling that you can do it too."Everyone knows the danger when they go out there, but it's still horrible when something like that happens."You can listen and watch Alanna Maher on the BBC Bikes podcast on BBC Sounds and YouTube

The results of the Delmarva Now's 2025-26 Fan's Choice Player of the Year poll are officially in, and the winner is a Bayside South athlete who won a fourth consecutive state championship on the wrestling mat this past season.Stephen Decatur wrestler Elijah Collick won the Fan's Choice Player of the Year poll after another state championship winning season as a Seahawk. Committed to wrestle in college for the University of Nebraska, Collick won his fourth consecutive MPSSAA State Championship this past March. Collick won the 4A/3A state title in the 132-pound weight class. Collick won the Player of the Year Poll with 42.91% of the vote.Coming in second place in the poll was Parkside volleyball player Brecklyn Bounds who was the Bayside South Volleyball Player of the Year in 2025. Third place in the poll was Stephen Decatur's Bailey Griffin, who was the Bayside South Field Hockey Defensive Player of the Year in 2025. More: Bayside South names softball all-stars, players of the year for 2026More: Looking back on top teams from the Bayside South during the 2025-26 seasonThis article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Decatur wrestler Elijah Collick wins Fan's Choice Player of the Year

We now know what lit the fuse that rocketed former Notre Dame women’s basketball head coach Muffet McGraw into a different stratosphere when it comes to speaking loudly and proudly for the equal rights of women. Before the disclosure, some details from that day seven years ago. It was April 2019, backstage at Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa, Florida. Notre Dame was making its ninth NCAA Tournament Final Four and was two wins from repeating as national champions. The day before yet another memorable meeting with Connecticut in one national semifinal, McGraw was asked a two-part question during her media session. Noie: Another NCAA game, another improbable Notre Dame women's basketball resultNoie: Culture on display in Notre Dame women's March Madness win at Ohio StateSomeone wondered about the hiring practices around women’s college basketball, then asked if the game needed a strong voice since the 2016 death of Tennessee coaching legend Pat Summit. McGraw opened with a comment about the Equal Rights Amendment. She talked of sex discrimination. She mentioned the number of women who had run for office and won. She didn’t know what she was saying. “Yeah, that surprised even me,” McGraw told the Tribune in an exclusive early-May 2026 conversation that touched on a wide variety of topics before, during and after her 38-year college coaching career. “I had read some report earlier that year about women in leadership and had all these stats. I don’t know what I was preparing for, but it was all in my head.” It was about to come rushing out like a faucet turned on full blast — water everywhere. Words everywhere. The opening remarks were already stunning given the stage, but she was just getting started. “I didn’t know where that was going,” McGraw said. “In the middle of it, I was like, ‘How am I going to get off this topic? How will it end?’”With strong words from a strong advocate of equal rights for women. Sitting at the front of the room under a bank of bright/blinding lights, McGraw never blinked. She doubled down. Tripled, even. “I’m getting tired of this novelty of the first female governor of this state, the first female African American mayor of this city,” McGraw said that day. “When is it going to become the norm instead of the exception? How are these young women looking up and seeing someone that looks like them, preparing them for the future? We don’t have enough female role models. We don’t have enough visible women leaders. We don’t have enough women in power.”The video clip went viral almost immediately. One day before beating Connecticut for the 13th and final time in her career, four days before taking her team to the national championship game for a seventh and final time, this was McGraw.Blame it on her husband, Matt. Kind of.Earlier this month, McGraw explained how the Irish traveling party had arrived in Tampa that 2019 day. Notre Dame had some down time before being required to be at the arena for media obligations, so the McGraws checked into their room at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. When they entered their suite and turned on the television, a message appeared on the screen. “Welcome Matt McGraw.” That was it. Not “Welcome, Muffet McGraw” or “Welcome Hall of Fame Coach.” Or even “Welcome Notre Dame.” She may have settled for “Welcome, McGraws.” Welcome, Matt McGraw. It was a sign that it still was a man’s world and that she was just living in it. “I lost it,” McGraw said. “That was the catalyst.” Honestly, it may have been the final piece to the equal rights puzzle. For 18 years, when Notre Dame was a member of the Big East, the McGraws traveled to the spring meetings in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. And every year when they checked into their room, it was the same situation as Tampa. Welcome, Matt McGraw. “There had always been little moments like that,” McGraw said. “But that one that day in Tampa was the topper.” Eventually, the conversation was steered back to basketball, but McGraw’s message was clear. If there was something to say about gender equality, she was going to say it. She did that day. She believes in it to this one. That day, McGraw’s voice became the norm, not the exception. Follow South Bend Tribune and NDInsider columnist Tom Noie on X (formerly Twitter): @tnoieNDI. Contact Noie at tnoie@sbtinfo.comThis was part three of a three-part series of stories on Muffet McGraw as part of an ongoing "America 250" celebration by USA Today Company, spotlighting sports figures who have made an impact in the communities we cover. The first part covered her Hall of Fame career as Notre Dame women's basketball head coach, with part two being a wide-ranging Q&A about current sports and world topics. You can find both parts online at southbendtribune.com and ndinsider.com. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Muffet McGraw women's equality speech from 2019, revisited

Real Madrid will target three players to become promised €150m signingReal Madrid President Florentino Perez dropped his election bomb on Thursday night during his latest interview, explaining that if he is re-elected on Sunday, then he will pursue the most expensive signing in club history. Despite significant speculation over who it could be, it seems that Perez is yet to define the exact player it will be.The 79-year-old denied that it would be Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku or Erling Haaland, or Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise or Harry Kane. The two names that have emerged most frequently since have been Paris Saint-Germain and Portugal duo Joao Neves and Vitinha, who have been key in the French side’s domination in Europe.Perez has three players in mind for €150m bidImage via Angel Martinez/Getty ImagesWell-connected Real Madrid reporter Jose Felix Diaz has confirmed to Diario AS that Vitinha and Neves are both in the running to be the signature signing of Perez’s election campaign. The other name, despite his denial, is Olise, who would provide a right-sided option to Real Madrid’s attack for the first time since Gareth Bale left. It is no surprise that Perez is not tying himself to a singular name, given that increases the risk of being unable to deliver on the promise of brigning in their record signing.It is added that Olise’s performances against Real Madrid in the Champions League this season made an impact at the Santiago Bernabeu. For his part, Vitinha has long been considered a ‘dream signing’ by Los Blancos to resolve their ongoing issues in midfield.What has Enrique Riquelme promised?Image via Eddie Keogh/Getty ImagesFor his part, election rival Enrique Riquelme has promised that if he becomes president, then Haaland and Rodri Hernandez will both be signed from Manchester City. Any agreement with Haaland has been denied by his agent, but Riquelme commented that this was merely ‘part of the game’. He is yet to name the manager he is keen to bring in, but distanced himself from Jose Mourinho, who will be the next manager if Perez is in charge.

Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should soon find a place in India's international setup, even suggesting the teenager could open the batting in Test cricket.During a discussion on Sky Sports on the opening day of the first Test between England and New Zealand on Thursday, the idea of Sooryavanshi opening in Tests was raised."I got a way of exhilarating Test match cricket around the globe. Open the batting with Sooryavanshi. Can you imagine seeing that in Test match cricket?" the presenter said.To which Doull replied, "It can't be far away."— SkyCricket (@SkyCricket) Sooryavanshi was one of the biggest stories of IPL 2026. The Rajasthan Royals batter swept several awards at the end of the tournament, including Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player of the Season, Super Striker of the Season, Orange Cap winner and Super Sixes of the Season.The Bihar-born batter finished as the tournament's highest run-scorer with 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30.His season included a record 72 sixes and several milestones that put him among the standout performers in IPL history.At 15 years and 65 days old, Sooryavanshi also became the youngest Orange Cap winner in IPL history. The previous record belonged to Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan, who won it at 23 years and 231 days in 2025. Shubman Gill had earlier held the record in 2023 at 23 years and 263 days.The teenager came close to matching Virat Kohli's record of four centuries in a single IPL season. Apart from his century against Sunrisers Hyderabad, he was dismissed in the nineties three times — 93 against Lucknow Super Giants, 97 in the Eliminator against Sunrisers Hyderabad and 96 in Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Titans.Sooryavanshi also became the fastest player to reach 1,000 IPL runs in terms of balls faced, getting there in 440 deliveries and going past West Indies batter Andre Russell. In terms of innings, he became the second-fastest to the milestone, taking 23 innings. Shaun Marsh remains the fastest, having reached it in 21 innings.Praising the youngster's season, Doull said, "It's extraordinary. It's phenomenal. I mean, watching that leading run scorer in the tournament. I don't know how many awards he got at the bag in the tournament (IPL), but it was just phenomenal for a 16-year-old kid."Doull added that India should find a place for Sooryavanshi in one of their national teams soon."I don't know who they replace, but yeah they got to find room for him somewhere in some of those teams." 131524268

Legendary Real Madrid left-back predicts ‘landslide’ victory for Florentino PerezReal Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has become the latest high-profile figure to publicly throw his support behind Florentino Perez ahead of the club’s presidential election.The Brazilian icon appeared on La Revuelta, where he spoke openly about the upcoming vote and made it clear where his support lies. With the election drawing closer, his comments add to the growing list of former Real Madrid stars who have publicly backed the current president.A three-time Champions League winner with Los Blancos, Roberto Carlos remains one of the most respected figures in the club’s history, making his endorsement particularly significant.Backs Perez for Real Madrid presidencyDuring the interview, the former left-back revealed that he will be participating in the election as a club member and left no doubts regarding his choice.“I’m a member, so I’ll be voting in the elections—which are incredibly important—and I’ll be voting for Florentino; I’m certain of that. Roberto Carlos knows who he is supporting. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)“We’re going to win by a landslide. Florentino is Florentino—I call him ‘Dad.’ He’s a tremendous person, the greatest president of all time, and a spectacular person in my life. “We’ve won so much together, we’ve travelled together, and I know his goal has always been for the members to be the owners of the club. “He’s always said that, and he’ll keep his word: Madrid belongs to the members.”More to the storyThe Brazilian’s relationship with Perez dates back many years and spans one of the most successful periods in Real Madrid’s history. Having experienced that era first-hand, Roberto Carlos believes the current president remains the best person to lead the club forward.“I know a lot of people at Atleti and Barça, and they’re the ones who don’t want Florentino to stay, because he wins titles and signs the best players. Perez has the backing from Robert Carlos. (Photo by Sandra Behne/Bongarts/Getty Images)“Big signings? I know he has interesting options, interesting names, but we don’t go after players with contracts at other clubs—we respect the contract. “And if a player wants to play for Madrid, we can talk, but even then it depends: Florentino does everything very well.”The Brazilian also believes that success is precisely why criticism continues to follow Perez.Reflecting on the controversies surrounding the election campaign, he added,“Florentino knows exactly what he’s talking about, about the controversies, because he knows there’s a group that doesn’t want him to stay because he’s won so many titles and will win more. “Being president of Madrid isn’t for just anyone—it’s a massive club.”

‘I fulfilled my dream’ – Former Barcelona midfielder opens up on failed return and emotional departureOriol Romeu may not have enjoyed the return to Barcelona that many had hoped for, but the midfielder has said that he looks back on the experience with pride rather than disappointment.The former Barcelona academy player struggled to establish himself after rejoining the club and eventually found himself on the fringes of the squad. Despite that difficult period, Romeu insists that representing Barcelona again was something he will always value.Romeu’s reflection on difficult Barcelona returnLooking back, the midfielder spoke honestly about the highs and lows of a spell that ultimately did not unfold as expected.Although his second stint at Barcelona was marked by inconsistency and limited opportunities, Romeu remains convinced that returning to Camp Nou was the right decision.“I fulfilled my dream: to be at the best club in the world.”Romeu has no regrets. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)The midfielder also rejected the idea that he regrets any part of the journey, even if the final outcome was not ideal.“I’m satisfied with my work; I have little to reproach myself for. “Looking back, I don’t hold anything against myself, nor do I regret any of the decisions I made. I have great friends and great memories. It was all very intense.”Stint under XaviOne of the biggest challenges during his time at Barcelona came when he gradually lost his place in the team under Xavi Hernandez. As his playing time decreased, Romeu had to adapt to a different role within the squad.“A player always wants to be involved as much as possible. The moment you realise you’re not playing as much, that you’re losing your place, you try to find solutions and help the team as much as possible.”Romeu struggled for gametime at Barcelona (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)Eventually, it became clear that regular opportunities would be difficult to come by.Hence, after finding himself on the sidelines for much of the season, Romeu decided that a fresh start was necessary. That decision ultimately led him back to Girona, where he felt he would have a better chance of playing consistently. While explaining how the move came about, the midfielder said,“After not getting any playing time during the season, I felt I needed to play more. At Barça, I saw that as very difficult. I knew that Míchel wanted me back and, seeing that Girona was an option, I didn’t hesitate to go there.”Lastly, while summing up his experience, Romeu offered a reflection that perfectly captures his outlook on the entire journey, concluding,“Often, the final outcome doesn’t necessarily have to overshadow the initial decision.”Source: Mundo Deportivo

The Bayern Insider: Ismael Saibari talks advance after Gordon blow as Rashford & Kroupi linkedWelcome to today’s exclusive & comprehensive round-up of all things Bayern Munich from Bayern insider Christian Falk. Featuring updates on Ismael Saibari, Eli Junior Kroupi, Morgan Rogers, and Marcus Rashford.Today’s top storiesWho is on Bayern’s attacking transfer shortlist after Anthony Gordon transfer blow?Will Bayern compete with Premier League elite for Eli Junior Kroupi and Morgan Rogers?Are Bayern Munich happy to sell Harry Kane to Barcelona?And plenty more on Mika Godts, Gabriel Martinelli, Nathaniel Brown & Sergiño DestIsmael Saibari: Bayern’s top offensive target?Ismael Saibari, the PSV Eindhoven winger, is the top target at the moment, with Anthony Gordon having since signed for FC Barcelona. Congratulations to Fabrizio Romano, by the way – he had the news first, and I’ve since confirmed it. There are already talks with the Eredivisie outfit, and I heard that Bayern Munich made an offer of €48m [£41.5m]. But, of course, PSV know that Bayern Munich would have been prepared to pay €60m [£51.9m], so, as you can imagine, they’re also saying, we’ll take €60m for Saibari. For the player, it’s all good; there’s an agreement on personal terms. There’s still some discussion on where the medical would take place, either at the World Cup or somewhere else, depending on timings. At the moment, there are still negotiations with PSV.Want more CF Bayern Insider coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustIt didn’t work out with Anthony Gordon – Bayern couldn’t match the €80m [£69.2m] Barcelona put forward. It was too much. For €48m-60m, they’d find a solution!Bayern Munich interest in Morgan Rogers✅ It is TRUE: Vincent Kompany is interested in Morgan Rogers, likes the Aston Villa star and would like to have him in Munich. However, the price tag is very high, and there are simply too many Premier League clubs following the Englishman. I don’t think they can afford the player. Bayern fans will remember the story with Xavi Simons when Kompany tried to get the Dutchman. The manager went to Tegernsee, where Uli Hoeneß lives, and the Bayern chief told him that the price is too high, but he can have a slice of pie. I think in this case, it could be another slice of pie for Vincent Kompany!Eli Junior Kroupi up for a Bundesliga transfer?There is a lot of interest in Eli Junior Kroupi after a very good first season with AFC Bournemouth. That’s why he’s going to be very expensive this summer. We heard about interest from Arsenal, and there are rumours that they’d be prepared to pay €100m [£86.5m] for the attacker. I don’t think this will be the case, but even the €70m [£60.5m] quoted, which is the price tag at the moment, is very high for Bayern Munich. So, this is one reason why Ismael Saibari is higher up on the list, as he’s easier to get and not quite as expensive. Nonetheless, Kroupi remains a very interesting player for FC Bayern!What’s going on with Mika Godts?✅ It is TRUE: Mika Godts is on Bayern Munich’s shortlist. He’s not as highly rated as Saibari; he’s considered more of an alternative candidate. I’m not sure why, as he looks fantastic, and he’s enjoyed a really strong season in the Dutch top-flight. He’s also not as expensive, with a price tag set at €35m [£30.2m] (despite a contract running until 2029). But Bayern Munich have decided to first go for Saibari. If this doesn’t work out, Godts can be the next candidate.Matias Fernandez-Pardo on Bayern Munich’s transfer list?He’s a player who fits perfectly in the ideal profile Bayern Munich are searching for. He’s 21, plays for Lille, and is available at a €35m price tag. However, I’ve yet to get confirmation on this name. I think from the profile, Fernandez Pardo looks like a player who would be of interest to Bayern – but I can’t yet say for 100% certain if he’s on the list or not. When I’ve watched him, I can’t find a specific reason why Bayern wouldn’t be looking at him. There are rumours that the Belgian is on the list, so we’ll have to see what happens if things don’t work out with Saibari. At the moment, he’s perhaps a candidate a bit behind his Eredivisie counterpart on the list.Could Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli be on the move this summer?✅ It is TRUE: Gabriel Martinelli has always been on FC Bayern’s list since Thomas Tuchel put him on the shortlist during his reign in Munich. Everyone in Bayern knows it wouldn’t be so easy to bring the Brazilian to Bavaria. He doesn’t have the playing time he’d like in London, but he’d also struggle to get it instantly in Munich. Martinelli isn’t a player for the first XI, and it’s well-known that Bayern Munich are looking for a backup option, so it’s not a perfect move for the left winger. €45m [£38.9m] could be the price tag; that would be okay. But Bayern Munich are, at the moment, going for players who don’t have such a big name – that was one clear decision made after the Gordon deal fell through. They want to develop a player in the position. I’m not sure if Martinelli would be overjoyed at this prospect.Marcus Rashford is still on the marketIt’s very interesting that the Marcus Rashford to Bayern rumours are up and running again! When I spoke to Bayern previously, weeks before, there was always a NOT TRUE on Marcus Rashford. However, there was the idea of signing Anthony Gordon, but the ex-Newcastle star is now at Barcelona, and so Rashford could now be on the market. I think for Bayern, it wouldn’t be a problem to pay the stated price tag of €40m [£34.5m], which Barcelona don’t appear to be able to pay all at once. For Bayern, this would be no problem. But the one big problem is the high salary, as FC Bayern doesn’t want to be forking out a big wage for a backup signing. The name is interesting, but let’s see what happens with the other candidates. I personally don’t think he’s an option for Bayern right now, but it’s worth remembering that Luis Diaz wasn’t the first-choice signing last summer (the club had three or four players ahead of him on the list). So I won’t say no for sure, but it’s not hot at the minute.Rafael Leão blows down the exit door at AC Milan❌ It is NOT TRUE: Rafael Leão is an option for Bayern Munich this summer. There were talks last summer with the AC Milan player. Max Eberl, the director of sport, held talks with the Portuguese footballer at the time of the Nations League, but in the end, the club decided he wouldn’t be suitable for the dressing room (not a “Bayern-like” player). So, that’s why I don’t think he’ll be hot this summer. AC Milan want €50m [£43.2m] for Rafael Leão, and while that would be okay for Bayern, they have other options on the list who would be better suited as backups than the Serie A star.The fullback search: Sergiño Dest and Nathaniel BrownI talked a lot about Nathaniel Brown with both clubs, Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayern Munich. FC Bayern initially weren’t moving for this big talent, but their minds have since changed! That’s because Alphonso Davies racked up a lot of missed minutes through injury last season and because of the concrete interest from Arsenal and Real Madrid (and, I hear, from Enzo Maresca at Manchester City) in Brown. So, Bayern know that if they don’t move for the 22-year-old left-back now, they won’t sign this player for the future. And my goodness, does he have a big future!He’s with the German national team here in the States and is fighting with David Raum for the left-back spot for the World Cup team. I heard that Bayern Munich already knocked on the door of Frankfurt, but sporting director Markus Krösche is saying he won’t sell Nathaniel Brown for less than €60m [£51.9m], and he’s ideally looking for €65m [£56.2m]. He knows that if he performs at the World Cup, the price is only going to go up. So, Frankfurt are happy to wait. Nathaniel Brown himself would love to play for Bayern Munich. There’s already been contact with the player, and there’s no problem with securing personal terms; he’d love to make this next step.If it happens and Bayern have to pay such a high amount, perhaps they could sell Alphonso Davies to Saudi Arabia, as there is interest. With other clubs, there’s always going to be a problem with a high price tag and a salary of €20m [£17.2m]. This could be a big problem for a player who spent much of the 2025/26 season injured.Bayern could also move for Sergiño Dest on top of Nathaniel Brown this summer. Max Eberl has to sell players – they’re searching for a club for Sacha Boey – and they have in mind the possibility that Josip Stanišić can play at centre-back. There’s still the situation with Konrad Laimer, but I heard that there are very good vibes that he’ll sign a new contract. But it’s good to have Dest around as an option. Bayern Munich were interested in the United States international even before he moved to Barcelona. Now he’s playing for PSV Eindhoven, and Bayern are already in talks with the Dutch club because of Ismael Saibari. So, you see the connection is there. I think you can find a solution. Also, it’s worth noting that Brown can play in midfield and Dest can play both left-back and right-back. So there are many options and combinations for the players. Bayern will first try to make the Brown deal happen, but Dest is also on the list.Is it really all over between Bayern and Kennet Eichhorn?✅ It is TRUE: There were big discussions between the supervisory board and Max Eberl over the prospect of signing Kennet Eichhorn. Eberl tried really hard to get the player. Bayern Munich booked a private plane to bring the teenager (16) from Berlin to Munich ahead of the Champions League semi-final clash with PSG. Secret talks were held in the Four Seasons hotel between Vincent Kompany and the midfielder. He was talking a lot with the player, and the Belgian head coach would have loved to sign him. Max Eberl tried to pursue Eichhorn to push for a move to Bayern.He has a big market. Bayer Leverkusen have made an offer for him, as have Liverpool (even though he can’t play in the Premier League for another two years). There is an idea to send him out on loan to Leverkusen. Borussia Dortmund are still at the poker table, but Bayern Munich are not prepared to meet the signing fee of €10m [£8.6m], which is more than the release clause (€9m). The agency and player know that he has a price on the market of about €20m, so this would be a normal price. But Bayern Munich understandably think a €10m signing fee for a 16-year-old is too high.Bayern prepared to sell Harry Kane to Barcelona?❌ It is NOT TRUE: Bayern are ready to sell Harry Kane to Barcelona for €80m. FC Bayern do not want to sell the fantastic Kane! They’ve already started talks over a new contract. The only question on the table is how long this new contract will be. Is it just one year, one year with an option, or will Harry Kane ask for longer? This could be a little problem, but in the end, they really want to keep the striker. He’s had a fantastic season and is clearly very important for Vincent Kompany’s team. So Barcelona are going to have to search for another solution if Julian Alvarez doesn’t work out.Dante is back!Bayern Munich have a lot of faith in Dante’s future as a coach. Remember, he played last season on the pitch for Nice, but he also completed his UEFA Pro Licence, and Bayern Munich loves the idea that they can educate players like Xabi Alonso and Vincent Kompany; young coaches with great experiences as players. I know Dante; he’s a really, really nice guy, a funny guy, a really cool guy. I think he’ll do a great job with the players, but we have to see if he can also be tough! A manager has to be tough. I haven’t yet seen him be tough in his coaching, but I think we’ll soon see that side of the Brazilian.

Manchester United's planned £2bn 100,000-capacity new stadium [Getty Images]Manchester United officials are hoping to make a breakthrough in their negotiations with Freightliner over the land needed to build their proposed new stadium this summer.Whilst the club have stressed work has been going on behind the scenes, there has been little evidence of movement on the project since minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe unveiled his grand vision for a 100,000-capacity ground close to the current stadium at Old Trafford last March.A deal with Freightliner is understood to be the key to unlocking the project. Until United know what land they can use, they cannot settle on a final design, which is needed to establish how much it will cost and to work out the best way to fund it.United want to continue playing at Old Trafford until the new stadium is built.They could wait for the Mayor's office to trigger a compulsory purchase order on the site, but BBC Sport has been told that is not the preference as it could take a couple of years to take effect.Chief executive Omar Berrada was asked about the present situation when he spoke to the club's 'Inside Carrington' podcast."Hopefully we'll have some news to share in the next weeks or months," he said."Once we've secured the land and we know the exact location of where the new stadium could be, then we will proceed to finalise the design at the stadium, which will then lead us to have a very good understanding of what the potential cost is."United do not believe the current uncertainty over the Mayoral position will have any effect on the plans.If Andy Burnham wins the Makerfield by-election on 18 June, he would have to stand down as Greater Manchester Mayor.However, the belief is the because the wider Old Trafford regeneration project is a legal entity, it won't be scrapped even if there was a change of Mayor.Despite the apparent lack of progress, officials are confident the stadium could be built relatively quickly, potentially within two years of the first spades being put into the ground.It is still envisaged significant parts of the stadium can be brought in from various parts of the world by ship, as INEOS are currently doing at their Project One construction site in Antwerp.

Verité Johnson works at a community radio station, providing daily awareness and updates on Ebola in Bunia, Congo, Thursday, June 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa)2026-06-05T07:29:03Z BUNIA, Congo (AP) — The rare Bundibugyo type of Ebola that Congo is battling took locals by surprise after weeks of spreading unnoticed. Hundreds of cases were suspected when the outbreak was declared in May, but many dismissed the news as a “Western conspiracy.”Congolese authorities announced the new Ebola outbreak on May 15. As of Wednesday, at least 62 people had died from 363 confirmed cases. Yet the outbreak has been challenged by skepticism, attacks on health workers and misinformation.Vérité Johnson, a journalist and editorial secretary at the Radio Télévision Mont Bleu station in Bunia, the eastern Ituri province capital where the outbreak is concentrated, decided to produce a new program to combat rumors. The radio show has emerged as a vital tool to win over some residents who have been unaware or skeptical about the facts of Bundibugyo. The 45-minute program runs daily at 10 a.m., reminding people of the dangers and regularly featuring health specialists providing updates and answering questions. The show’s jingles about the virus also play intermittently throughout the day and residents are able to call in with questions. “So far, there’s still a layer of resistance within the population, and that’s where the media plays an important role,” Johnson said.Resistance to protocols during public health emergencies is common in Congo, which is battling its 17th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified there in 1976. There currently is no approved vaccine or treatment for the Bundibugyo type of Ebola, which has added another layer of fear. Read More Widespread rumors, often arising from fear and misinformation, discourage residents from adhering to health warnings or seeking medical help during an outbreak, health officials say. People often hear about a disease through the media as authorities and international partners scramble to contain the outbreak. Unfounded rumors link Ebola to moneySome residents allege illnesses like Ebola are elevated by opportunists trying to profit.“They don’t separate people who have Ebola from those who have the flu at the hospital. Given the manner in which people are treated, we deduce it is about money,” said Samson Gerson, 52-year-old Bunia resident and father of seven children. “I can never take the vaccine, I prefer to die because if the vaccine arrives, it can scare us even more.”Analysts say some people in Congo have been receptive to disinformation due to mistrust of the healthcare system and because some local officials have not become actively involved in containing the disease.“What is key is to involve the local actors at all levels. If we try to impose what we think is right to the community, we are running towards failure,” said Basile Rambaud, emergency programs director for Mercy Corps in Congo. “If people do not trust the response, they end up delaying to seek care, rejecting protective measures, or avoiding working with health teams, giving the virus more time to spread.”Ituri province residents have launched at least three attacks against health centers, demanding the bodies of deceased patients. Some people who are believed to have Ebola left the centers during the attacks and health workers could not account for their whereabouts.“We don’t even know what the body of a person who died of Ebola looks like, but we just see images and montages on our phone,” said Bunia resident Chantal Francine, who expressed doubts over the reported deaths. Full scale of the outbreak is unknown The virus has rapidly spread from an initial three health zones to 24, according to World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who said Wednesday that the virus “had a big start.”Experts and WHO officials have warned the numbers might not reflect the true scale of the epidemic as weeks of testing for the wrong type caused a delay in containing the virus.The outbreak has been worsened by an ongoing armed conflict between Congo’s government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, as well as attacks by the Islamic State-affiliated group the Allied Democratic Force, which killed 16 people in Beni territory in North Kivu on Tuesday. The attacks by both groups have caused massive displacement of people living in the conflict areas, officials said.Despite the growing Bundibugyo outbreak and the conditions that are enabling the disease to spread, Johnson said Radio Télévision Mont Bleu continues providing residents with vital facts.“Everyone is free to think what they want, but the information remains the same. The epidemic is here,” Johnson said.___Adetayo reported from Lagos, Nigeria. OPE ADETAYO Adetayo is a West and Central Africa reporter for The Associated Press. He covers news and regional development across West and Central Africa. twitter facebook mailto

NEW CHANDIGARH: The Indian ODI team picked for the three-match series against Afghanistan starting from June 13 is hit by injury concerns. It has emerged that Virat Kohli is set to miss the series due to a hamstring injury while there is no clarity about Rohit Sharma’s fitness. Ruturaj Gaikwad could be flown in for the series.“Official communication will come on that. It’s obviously big news when it’s someone like Virat or Rohit, but the same protocols will be in place,” India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said on Thursday.Kohli sustained the injury in the IPL final last Sunday and may need another fortnight to recover. Rohit and Hardik Pandya have been picked for the series subject to fitness. Both missed a significant part of the IPL. Rohit is reportedly nursing an injured hamstring while the selectors need assurance about Hardik’s ability to bowl 10 overs in an ODI at full tilt.Hardik is currently at the centre of excellence. But Rohit is yet to report to any BCCI facility. The ODI team is scheduled to arrive in Chandigarh on June 8 and train at the PCA stadium in Mohali.Iyer frontrunner to be T20I captainTOI understands that Shreyas Iyer could be given the T20I captaincy in place of Suryakumar Yadav. Tilak Varma is also tipped to become the new T20I vice-captain. If that happens, Varma could lead India in the Asian Games since Iyer will be busy with ODI assignment against West Indies at home.Bumrah’s workload in focusThe selectors will also take stock of Jasprit Bumrah’s workload before the UK tour. The selectors want him absolutely fit for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka in August. He may be given a break from T20Is if not ODIs as well.

Two more Real Madrid legends join rival presidential campaign as Toni Kroos is approachedThe elections at Real Madrid will be decided on Sunday, and rivals Florentino Perez and Enrique Riquelme are doing their best to sway the minds of members beforehand with the promise of big names and bombastic signings. For his part, Riquelme has also followed a policy of bringing in a number of former players and legends on board too.The first that was announced was former captain and Castilla manager Raul Gonzalez, who Riquelme declared would be his sporting director. Albeit without a defined role yet, he has also announced that another former captain in Fernando Hierro will be part of his campaign too.Iker Casillas and Vicente del Bosque join campaignImage via Defensa CentralOver the last 24 hours, Riquelme has also added another former captain to his ranks in Iker Casillas, who was a contemporary of Hierro during his time in the first team. They were managed by Vicente del Bosque to great success in the early 2000s, and Riquelme has also confirmed to Cadena Cope del Bosque will also have a role in his Real Madrid, should he win. Del Bosque’s role would appear to be as a more hands-off advisor, while Casillas would take on a significant role within the sporting structure.Riquelme attempting to bring in Toni KroosImage via DPA/PAWhile not a captain, Toni Kroos certainly holds a strong hold on the hearts of Madridistas. In recent months, he has been in talks with Florentino Perez and Real Madrid to return to the club as an advisor on football decisions. Cope also report that Riquelme is attempting to seduce Kroos into joining his campaign too. Kroos, who has always been direct and outspoken as a player, but also on his podcast, is highly respected in the Spanish capital, and his opinion carries significant weight among Madridistas.

We'll have an entirely new field at the 2026 College World Series. None of the 16 teams left in the NCAA baseball tournament's super regionals were in Omaha last season.That's a complete reshuffle for the second year in a row.The USA TODAY Network will provide comprehensive super regionals coverage this weekend with reporters at seven of the eight sites.Super regionals re-rank: NCAA baseball tournament bracket upended by upsetsSuper regionals preview: What to know about college baseball tournamentWe asked beat writers with teams remaining in the super regionals for their CWS picks. Here's who they think will be headed to Charles Schwab Field next week.Sam Hutchens, The Clarion LedgerWest Virginia over Cal PolyLittle Rock over TroyNorth Carolina over USCAuburn over Ole MissMississippi State over GeorgiaTexas over OregonAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaSam Sklar, The Clarion LedgerWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockNorth Carolina over USCAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateTexas over OregonSt. John’s over AlabamaOklahoma over KansasMaxwell Donaldson, The Gadsden TimesWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockNorth Carolina over USCAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateOregon over TexasAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaCraig Meyer, USA TODAYWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockNorth Carolina over USCOle Miss over AuburnMississippi State over GeorgiaTexas over OregonAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaRodd Baxley, Fayetteville ObserverWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockNorth Carolina over USCAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateTexas over OregonAlabama over St. John'sOklahoma over KansasAdam Cole, Montgomery AdvertiserWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockUSC over North CarolinaAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateTexas over OregonAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaColton Sulley, The OklahomanWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockUSC over North CarolinaAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateOregon over TexasAlabama over St. John'sOklahoma over KansasJordan Guskey, Topeka Capital JournalWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockUSC over North CarolinaOle Miss over AuburnGeorgia over Mississippi StateTexas over OregonAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaMarc Weiszer, Athens Banner-HeraldWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockUSC over North CarolinaAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateTexas over OregonAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaAlec Dietz, Eugene Register GuardCal Poly over West VirginiaTroy over Little RockNorth Carolina over USCAuburn over Ole MissGeorgia over Mississippi StateOregon over TexasAlabama over St. John'sKansas over OklahomaEmilee Smarr, Tuscaloosa NewsWest Virginia over Cal PolyTroy over Little RockUSC over North CarolinaOle Miss over AuburnGeorgia over Mississippi StateOregon over TexasAlabama over St. John'sOklahoma over KansasThis article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College World Series predictions: Who will win baseball super regionals?

MAINZ, GERMANY - MAY 31: Joshua Kimmich of Germany in action during the international friendly match between Germany and Finland at MEWA Arena on May 31, 2026 in Mainz, Germany. (Photo by Stefan Matzke - sampics/Getty Images) | Getty Images It is going to be a busy summer for Bayern Munich’s players as the FIFA World Cup will feature a number of them. Take a look below to see where the boys will be spending the first part of their summer: AustriaKonrad LaimerAustria U-21Magnus Dalpiaz (standby)CanadaAlphonso DaviesColombiaLuis DíazCroatiaJosip StanišićCroatia U-17Filip PavićEnglandHarry KaneFranceMichael OliseDayot UpamecanoGermanyLeon Goretzka (leaving the club this summer)Lennart KarlJoshua KimmichJamal MusialaManuel NeuerAlexander Nubel (spent 2025/26 on loan with VfB Stuttgart)Aleksandar PavlovićJonathan TahJonas Urbig*** (not selected for team, training goalkeeper only)Germany U-17Luca BablGermany U-16Linus LudwigVedad TurbicJapanHiroki ItōSenegalNicolas Jackson (spent 2025/26 with Bayern Munich, headed back to Chelsea on loan)Bara Sapoko MdiayeSouth KoreaKim Min-jaeTürkiyeU-21Deniz Ofli🔴 𝑭𝑪 𝑩𝑨𝒀𝑬𝑹𝑵 𝑩𝑬𝑰 𝑫𝑬𝑹 𝑾𝑴 🌎🏆18 unserer Spieler plus Jonas Urbig sind dabei – Viel Erfolg beim Turnier, Jungs! 💪 pic.twitter.com/M66HHbZl1l— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) June 2, 2026Please note that Bayern Munich does not release a full list of youth players out on international duty. If you see any that we missed, let us know!If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor… Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:New, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community posts

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez makes €150M bid promise following Erling Haaland controversyFlorentino Perez has promised to send a €150M bid for a top player from a UEFA Champions League club on next TuesdayReal Madrid president has clarified the target is not Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku or any other Premier League playerPerez’s move comes ahead of Real Madrid’s presidential election on June 7, in which he faces challenger Enrique RiquelmeReal Madrid president Florentino Perez has promised to submit a €150 million bid for a top player from a UEFA Champions League club next week. The announcement from Perez arrives in the context of one of the most turbulent weeks in Real Madrid‘s recent off-field history, with the presidential election on June 7 having turned the Spanish capital into a theatre of transfer declarations and counter-claims.Challenger Enrique Riquelmeignited the controversy earlier this week by publicly claiming that Haaland “has a release clause and wants to join Real Madrid” – an assertion swiftly and firmly denied by Haaland’s agent Rafaela Pimenta and his father Alfie Haaland, who described the claim as “entertaining, but not true”.Manchester City threaten legal action over Real Madrid presidential candidate’s Erling Haaland transfer claimsManchester City have since threatened legal action against Riquelme over the remarks, with the club taking a dim view of what they regarded as an irresponsible and inaccurate public statement about a player under contract at the Etihad Stadium till 2034.Romano: Perez to send €150M bid – not a Premier League playerAs relayed by transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Perez has confirmed he will personally authorise a €150 million bid for a top player from a UEFA Champions League club on Tuesday next week – and has been explicit that the target is not Haaland, Jeremy Doku or any other player currently competing in the Premier League.The clarification is a deliberate one, arriving at a moment when Real Madrid’s transfer intentions have been muddied by the noise of Riquelme’s election campaign.By ruling out Premier League targets entirely, Perez is both distancing himself from his challenger’s claims and signalling that his own plans are focused elsewhere – on a player from the continent’s elite club competition.What does this mean for Manchester City?Perez’s explicit ruling out of Haaland and Doku will be welcomed at the Etihad Stadium, where the club had already moved to protect their legal position following Riquelme’s unsubstantiated claims.The distinction between the two candidates’ approaches is stark: Riquelme making bold public pledges about specific City players, Perez directing his focus towards a non-Premier League target and drawing a clear line under the speculation.Rafaela Pimenta and Erling Haaland’s father respond to Real Madrid presidential candidate commentsThe situation with Rodri, however, remains considerably less settled. It was reported earlier this week that the Ballon d’Or winner is seeking a better contract offer from City than what has currently been tabled, with his future set to be addressed after the FIFA World Cup.Perez’s clarification covers Premier League players but Rodri plays in the Premier League – and his name has not been removed from the frame by anyone on the Madrid side with anything approaching the same conviction.

The keeper and 🔟 others: is Joan García out of de la Fuente's World Cup?The national team coach insists he has already chosen his starting goalkeeper for the World Cup opener despite Joan García’s latest mistake against Iraq.Speculation over who will start gathered pace after Joan García’s disappointing display, in which he made a notable error that cost the national team a goal against Iraq. Despite the outside noise caused by that defensive mistake, the coach from La Rioja wanted to put any hint of doubt to bed on the eve of the most important tournament on the planet. "There are 11 days left until the opening match and another friendly in four. We’re clear on the goalkeeper and 10 others as well,” the Spain coach said firmly. De la Fuente also wanted to put into context the level of demand he is seeking in this final stretch of preparation, playing down the latest disappointing result. "We don’t see these as friendlies. We were looking to achieve certain objectives against Iraq, but also to meet a series of physical requirements. My idea remains the same; we’ll see how these next few days unfold," the coach concluded. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Ireland men's head coach Andy Farrell has signed a contract extension with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) until 2031.The 50-year-old replaced Joe Schmidt in 2019 and has led Ireland to two Six Nations championships including one Grand Slam in 2023.As British and Irish Lions head coach in 2025, Farrell guided the side to a series win in Australia.His current contract with the IRFU was due to expire after the 2027 Rugby World Cup but the former England international will now lead Ireland to the following tournament which will be held in the USA.More to followMore to follow.

Pellegrini dreams of retiring at Roma, renewal soonThere’s less than a month left until the contracts of three Roma players expire: Paulo Dybala, Zeki Celik, and Lorenzo Pellegrini. Of the three, the number 7 is the one most attached to the city and the club for obvious reasons: he considers Trigoria his home and dreams of ending his career with the Giallorossi. At 30, as Il Corriere dello Sport reports, the midfielder feels he can still contribute a lot to the team, and his season, much more positive than the previous one, is fueling hopes of a renewal. Currently, the club’s priority is addressing the Financial Fair Play issue, with approximately €60 million in capital gains to accumulate by the end of the month.Pellegrini’s journey with Roma isn’t just about the pitch, but also about a sense of belonging that drives him to stay despite offers and interest from other clubs. The club, for its part, will have to carefully evaluate whether to keep him and build a technical project around him for the coming seasons. There’s cautious optimism at Trigoria, but there are more important issues than the situation surrounding players whose contracts are expiring. Even if he signs a contract renewal, Roma is already moving in the transfer market to strengthen their attacking line and provide Gian Piero Gasperini with reinforcements in the attacking area. The dream is Marseille’s Greenwood, but the 2001 English talent isn’t the only striker the Roman club has their eye on this summer.

Barcelona emerge as preferred destination for €30 million-rated La Liga defender – reportBarcelona have received a significant boost in their search for defensive reinforcements, with Real Betis centre-back Natan said to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou above any other opportunity.According to Mundo Deportivo, the Brazilian defender has emerged as one of the names offered to Barcelona ahead of the summer transfer window. More importantly, the report suggests that if Natan decides to leave Real Betis, he only sees Barcelona as the next destination in his career.The update comes after an impressive campaign from the 25-year-old, who has established himself as one of the most important players in Manuel Pellegrini’s side and played a key role in helping the club secure Champions League qualification.Natan open only to Barcelona moveNatan joined Betis from Napoli. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)Natan’s rise over the past year has been remarkable. After initially arriving from Napoli on loan in 2024, Real Betis moved quickly to secure his services permanently last summer in a deal worth around €9 million.Since then, the Brazilian has become a regular starter and one of the most reliable defenders in the squad. His performances have naturally attracted attention, with Barcelona among the clubs now monitoring his situation.The outlet reports that Natan is prepared to leave Betis but only if the move represents a major step forward in his career, and in that scenario, Barcelona are viewed as his preferred destination.What about the finances?Natan is open to Barcelona move. (Photo by Ed Sykes/Getty Images)The same report further claims that Betis could consider a sale for a package worth around €30 million, plus an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses.Interestingly, there has already been movement regarding the player’s future, as his agent, Andre Cury, reportedly met with Barcelona sporting director Deco to discuss the framework of a possible transfer operation.With four years still remaining on his contract, Betis remain in a strong negotiating position should Barcelona decide to advance their interest.

Everything you need to know about Real Madrid presidential elections – Candidates, elgibility, date and moreReal Madrid are entering one of the most important moments in the club’s recent history as members prepare to vote in a presidential election that will determine who leads the institution over the next four years.After weeks of campaigning, public statements and ambitious promises, the battle between Florentino Perez and Enrique Riquelme is finally approaching its conclusion. What began as an election campaign has evolved into a highly public contest that has captured the attention of supporters across Spain and beyond.With discussions ranging from sporting projects to potential blockbuster signings, the debate surrounding the future direction of Real Madrid has dominated headlines in recent weeks.Perez and Riquelme battle for control of Real MadridThe election will see current president Florentino Perez attempt to secure another term in office while challenger Enrique Riquelme seeks to bring a different vision to the Santiago Bernabéu.Perez enters the vote with a strong record behind him. During his time in charge, Real Madrid have enjoyed remarkable success on and off the field, while also completing major infrastructure projects, most notably the transformation of the Santiago Bernabeu.His campaign has also received backing from several club legends in recent days, including figures such as Gareth Bale, Roberto Carlos, Luka Modric and Karim Benzema.Enrique Riquelme is Perez’s opponent. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)On the other side, Riquelme has built his campaign around the promise of change. The challenger has presented a project that includes several legendary former players and has repeatedly spoken about restoring what he views as the traditional Real Madrid identity within the club’s structure.His campaign has also generated significant attention through promises involving high-profile names, including Erling Haaland, while outlining plans for a different sporting direction.With both candidates presenting contrasting visions for the future, the decision now rests entirely in the hands of the club’s members.When is the election?Regardless of who emerges victorious, the result will have a major impact on the club’s sporting and institutional future.A victory for Perez would likely mean continuity, with the current president continuing the project that has delivered enormous success over the last two decades.A win for Riquelme, meanwhile, would usher in a new era, bringing significant changes to the club’s leadership structure and potentially altering the sporting roadmap for years to come.Florentino Perez is the favourite to win the elections. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)Now that all is said that done, it must be remembered that voting will take place on Sunday, 7 June 2026.Furthermore, members will be able to cast their votes from 9:00 am until 8:00 pm without interruption. The polling station will be located at the Real Madrid Basketball Pavilion in Valdebebas, situated on Avenida Alejandro de la Sota. As per reports, around 70,000 members are called to vote.Lastly, in order to cast vote, three criterias must be met. This includes being a Real Madrid member and of legal age. Have a minimum of one full year of membership and be included in the official electoral roll.More importantly, Real Madrid will know whether Florentino Perez remains at the helm or whether Enrique Riquelme has succeeded in convincing members that the club needs a new direction by the end of the day,. Either way, a defining chapter in the club’s history is about to be written.

The jump from junior college to Division I basketball coach usually comes with a moving truck.For former Florida SouthWestern State College men's coach Darrin Wallace, it didn't.Wallace, who played on FGCU's inaugural men's basketball team during the 2002-03 season and served as the program's video coordinator from 2010-11, returned to FGCU in late May as an assistant under head coach Pat Chambers."Everything happened so quick, so fast," Wallace said. "It's not very often where you leave one place, especially at the Division I level, where you leave a job for a Division I job and you don't have to move. That just doesn't happen. I'm just so grateful for the opportunity coach (Pat) Chambers gave me because he's well established. He had a lot of options. For him to show confidence in me, and give me this opportunity, motivates me to work extremely hard and do a great job for him."It's great to be back. I obviously played here a long time ago and had a brief stint coaching here, but I just love this university, love this program, and love this community overall."Wallace has been a mainstay in Southwest Florida for much of this century, coaching at the high school level at Gateway Charter, Cape Coral, Canterbury, and Riverdale. Wallace made his return to the collegiate ranks when FSW came calling in 2022, serving as an assistant coach for two years under Eric Murphy before getting promoted to lead the NJCAA program in 2024. He went 41-19 in his two seasons with the Bucs, adding a Citrus Conference title."We are thrilled to add Darrin Wallace to our staff," Chambers said in a release. "Darrin has proven himself as an outstanding head coach, recruiter, and mentor throughout his career. His ability to develop players, build meaningful relationships, and connect within the community makes him a tremendous addition to our program. He understands the culture of Southwest Florida and brings valuable experience that will positively impact our student-athletes both on and off the court."Wallace continued FSW's reputation as being a prime spot for player development, sending 10 players to the Division I or Division II level. Wallace expects to continue that trajectory, aiming to elevate an FGCU roster that's gone 57-66 under Chambers in four seasons."I'm excited about building relationships with the guys first," Wallace said. "The best part about coaching and being a player was being a part of a team. I love that, and getting the opportunity to work for one of the better coaches in the country in coach Chambers, someone that I can learn from. "I feel like the group we brought in is going to be a special group that can do some exciting things this year."FGCU adds two from transfer portalThe Eagles announced two additions to their roster from the transfer portal on Thursday, June 4 — Charles "CJ" Outlaw and Elijah Brooks.Outlaw comes to FGCU from UMass, where he played for the 2025-26 season. In 2024-25, the 6-foot-9 forward started 37 games for the NJCAA national champion Trinity Valley Community College and shot 73% from the field en route to the national championship. Outlaw spent his freshman season at Mineral Area College. The son of former NBA player Bo Outlaw, he attended Olympia High School in Orlando.Brooks spent the last two years at Houston Christian. He played eight games for the Huskies in 2025-26 before missing the rest of the season due to injury, but averaged 12.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 30.5 minutes per game prior to his injury. In 2024-25, he led HCU with 47.8% shooting from the field, and averaged 9.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.1 steals per game. Prior to Houston Christian, the Topeka, Kansas native, spent two seasons at North DakotaFollow Sports Reporter Alex Martin on X at @NP_AlexMartin or via email: amartin@usatodayco.com. For the best sports coverage in Southwest Florida, follow @newspresssports and @ndnprepzone on Instagram.This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: FGCU men's basketball hires FSW head coach Darrin Wallace as assistant

Soccer culture has grown a lot in the Wilmington area. So when the FIFA World Cup – or the world’s most-watched sporting event -- comes to the United States, Canada and Mexico this June and July, of course there will be local fans tuning in to the 100 or so matches. Several local bars and restaurants are planning to help by adding some large-screen TVs, food, drinks and camaraderie. Here are a few of those places where you can watch the games. They include large sports bars, intimate Irish pubs, outside patios and humble dives.Slainte Irish PubThis spot is a downtown Wilmington classic for a reason. This compact Irish pub typically has a lively crowd at 7 N. Front St.The Crown & Fiddle Pub and KitchenThis Irish/British pub at 3317 Masonboro Loop Road in Wilmington has televisions, and a full kitchen for those who want a meal while they watch.The RiftThis Wilmington bar has a large outdoor screen, as well as an indoor area for watching sports and reality television. Soccer will be on, and there's pizza and burgers close by at 2144 Wrightsville Ave.USA TODAY coverage: Get the latest updates and newsLa Mar Salada This market, and classroom for paella and tapas cooking techniques, has also been hosting soccer match watch parties at 908 Castle St. in Wilmington.The HarpAn Irish native took over this longtime local pub in 2025 and updated the look to mimic The Temple Bar Pub in Dublin, complete with lots of soccer jerseys. It’s at 1423 S. Third St. in Wilmington.HopLite Pub and RestaurantNew owners renovated and reopened this spot in Carolina Beach with a refreshed space, but are continuing the local hangout tradition at 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.Celtic Monkey Irish Pub and GrillApproaching five years in business, this spot blends Irish classics with New York-trained bar talent, pub grub and lots of sports at 5607 Carolina Beach Road in Monkey Junction.STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the area’s latest food news by signing up for the Port City Foodies newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram. Carolina Ale HouseAmong the area's large sports bars is this staple game-day favorite with big screens, a varied menu and enough space for large match watching. It's located at 317 College Road in Wilmington.Fibber McGeesIn Brunswick County, this Irish tavern offers a relaxed feel with a full menu and a patio at 1780 Queen Anne in Sunset Beach.The Pub of SouthportIn addition to a large whiskey collection, this Irish pub at 1513 N. Howe St. in Southport also has sports on eight televisions.Hell’s KitchenThis bar and restaurant at 118 Princess St. in Wilmington has a strong reputation for sports watching on big screens, as well as good food and drink specials to go along with the experience.Tiny’z TavernAny of the locations of this spot offer strong "local bar" energy and a solid choice for watching the games, especially the later ones. Hampstead's location is at 43 Shuckin St.Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews.You can reach her at aballard@usatodayco.com.This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Bars and restaurants to watch the World Cup in Wilmington

SOUTH PLAINS WOMEN'SGOLF ASSOCIATIONMay 27 Resultsat LakeRidge Country ClubTeam standings: 1. (tie) Hillcrest Golf & Country Club, LakeRidge Country Club, 7; 3. Rawls Course, 4; 4. Shadow Hills Golf Course, 2.Medalist: Robin Evans, Rawls, 74.Low net of the field: Susanne Comer, 61.More: Recused judge says court's integrity paramount in Brendan Sorsby caseMore: Tell the truth — you can't turn away from Texas Tech softball: OpinionCHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHTLow gross: Jan Bufkin, Rawls 85. Second low gross: Carol Boothe, Hillcrest, 86. Low net: Debbie Sampley, LakeRidge, 69. Low putts: Robin Evans, Rawls, 26.FIRST FLIGHTLow gross: Celia Wheeler, Shadow Hills, 93. Second low gross: Cathy Palmer, LakeRidge, 94. Low net: Robin Hettler, Rawls, 71. Low putts: Robin Hettler, Rawls, 31.SECOND FLIGHTLow gross: Gail Crumley, Shadow Hills, 103. Second low gross: Kelley Ward, LakeRidge, 105. Low net: Caylene Caddell, LakeRidge, 78. Low putts: Gail Crumley, LakeRidge, 33.THIRD FLIGHTLow gross: Geri Tilson, Hillcrest, 93. Second low gross: Katrina Stanton, Hillcrest, 95. Low net: DiAnne Hudman, Hillcrest, 67. Low putts: Geri Tilson, Hillcrest, 27.FOURTH FLIGHTLow gross: Linda Barnette, Rawls, 100. Second low gross: Rhonda Pruitt, Hillcrest, 104. Low net: Jeri Loper, LakeRidge, 76. Low putts: Jeri Loper, LakeRidge, 29.FIFTH FLIGHTLow gross: Karen Lawson, Hillcrest, 102. Second low gross: Liz Karr, LakeRidge, 112. Low net: Stefanie Cunningham, LakeRidge, 77. Low putts: Karen Lawson, Hillcrest, 32.This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock area golf results

Florida A&M football has a special teams spark joining the team.Kieren Jackson, a BOXTOROW HBCU All-American return specialist, announced on June 2 that he has committed to the Rattlers.Jackson previously played at NCAA Division II Edward Waters in his hometown of Jacksonville during the 2025 season.🧡💚🐍#famuly#allinpic.twitter.com/dJP4CqjdHp— Kieren Jackson (@K_9iine) June 2, 2026During Jackson’s junior year, he drew national attention in Black College Football with 20 kick return attempts for 558 yards and three touchdowns. The 5-foot-10, 165-pound speedster also had three punt returns for 129 yards and a touchdown, landing him the All-American honor.Jackson also plays wide receiver. He caught eight passes for 94 yards at EWU last year.Outside of football, Jackson is listed on the EWU Tigers’ track and field team roster.The new FAMU addition has a prior connection with its new head coach, Quinn Fordham Gray Sr. Out of Mandarin High School, Jackson signed to Gray’s first recruiting class at Albany State in February 2023 and spent two seasons there.The two will now be reunited on The Highest of Seven Hills on the Division I Football Championship Subdivision level as the Gray era starts for the Rattlers this fall. A handful of Jackson’s former Albany State teammates, including quarterback Isaiah Knowles, also followed Gray to FAMU.FAMU plays a full slate of games on television during the 2026 season. The 12-game schedule starts on SWAC TV with the Rattlers hosting the season opener against Albany State on Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. on Ken Riley Field at Bragg Memorial Stadium.Florida A&M football 2026 scheduleAll times are EasternSaturday, Aug. 29: vs. Albany State, 7 p.m., SWAC TVSunday, Sept. 6: vs. South Carolina State, Orange Blossom Classic at Miami Gardens' Hard Rock Stadium, 3 p.m., ESPNUThursday, Sept. 10: at Miami, 8 p.m., ACC NetworkSaturday, Sept. 19: vs. Tennessee State, 7 p.m., HBCU GOSaturday, Sept. 26: vs. Alabama A&M (SWAC), 7 p.m., SWAC TVSaturday, Oct. 3: BYESaturday, Oct. 10: at Alabama State (SWAC), 3 p.m., HBCU GOSaturday, Oct. 17: at Jackson State (SWAC), 3 p.m., ESPN NetworkSaturday, Oct. 24: vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff (SWAC/Homecoming), 3 p.m., HBCU GOSaturday, Oct. 31: vs. Southern (SWAC), 3 p.m., HBCU GOSaturday, Nov. 7: at Alcorn State (SWAC), 3 p.m., SWAC TVSaturday, Nov. 14: vs. Mississippi Valley State (SWAC), 3 p.m., SWAC TVSaturday, Nov. 21: vs. Bethune-Cookman (SWAC/Florida Classic), 3:30 p.m., ESPN+Gerald Thomas, III, is a multi-time national award-winning reporter for his coverage of the Florida A&M Rattlers at the Tallahassee Democrat.Follow his award-winning coverage on RattlerNews.com and contact him via email at GDThomas@Tallahassee.com or on the app formerly known as Twitter @3peatgee.This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Kieren Jackson commits to FAMU football, All-American return man

St. Johns Golf Club director of golf Wes Tuckerwas named the North Florida PGA Section Professional of the Year at the section's recent awards banquet at the Evermore Orlando Resort. Tucker, who has guided the golf operations at the municipal course in Elkton since 1989, was named the Northern Chapter Pro of the Year earlier this year. Tucker was also elected the section secretary, which puts him in line to be the president of the nation's third-largest PGA section. Also cited at the banquet: Jacksonville Area Golf Association President Duke Butler III and former TPC Sawgrass general manager Bill Hughes were inducted into the section Hall of Fame. Sawgrass Country Club general manager Stefan Brunt was named the Club Executive of the Year and also elected to the section board. Atlantic Beach Country Club pro Rich Podwalski was named Merchandiser of the Year in the Private category. Brian Riddle, director of golf at TPC Sawgrass, was the Merchandiser of the Year in the Resort category. Nick Nuzzo of TPC Sawgrass was named Assistant Professional of the Year. Monique Gesualdi of St. Johns Golf Club won the Player Development Award. J.J. Nelson called his shot J.J. Nelson was running hot under the collar after a three-putt from 3 feet at the ninth hole of The Yards during a recent Saturday game with a group called "The Hacks." The former filmmaker from New York who is now on the staff at Lauden Golf, stood on the tee of the par-3 10th hole, the first of the six-hole par-3 loop at The Yards, and mentally did the math: he was 4-over and needed three birdies in a row to give his team a chance to win the competition. Then he remarked to no one in particular, "Forget that ... I need a hole-in-one to get back in the hunt." Nelson then did exactly that. Using a Hogan Apex 9-iron, he hit a high fade that hit the green and spun back into the side door for his first ace in more than 20 years of playing golf. One of the players in his group was Nelson's father John. "That made it more special," Nelson said. He then parred the last two of the 12 holes the group played to finish at 2-over. His skin for acing No. 10 was worth $245. After the congratulations and high fives were over, Nelson's father summed it up: "There's only one time for a first time." Florida Amateur fields loaded with area players The First Coast could have as many as 25 players in the field for the 109th Florida Amateur June 11-14, at the Dye Preserve and the Club at Admiral's Cove in Jupiter. Fifteen players are exempt, including Miles Russell of Jacksonville Beach, the No. 1-ranked player on the American Junior Golf Association, and past Florida Times-Union high school players of the year Tyler Mawhinney of Fleming Island, Andrew Riley of Palm Coast and Brock Blais of Ponte Vedra Beach. Also exempt into the tournament are Luke Balaskiewicz and Jordan Batchelor of Jacksonville; Carson Brewer, Jeff Dennis, Camden Smith and Mike Smith of Ponte Vedra Beach; Colton Swartz and Emmet Kuhlenkamp of Fleming Island; Nolan Harper of St. Augustine; 2024 Florida Amateur champion Jimmy Ellis of Atlantic Beach; and Andrew McLauchlan of Neptune Beach. The tournament field will be finalized on June 8. Some exempt players could choose to opt out of the tournament.Leading the 10 area qualifiers is Noah Ochob of Ponte Vedra, who won a qualifier at the Slammer & Squire with a 4-under 68. Other qualifiers are Michael Luc and Jacob Hitt of Jacksonville; Landon Durham and Cam Goldknopf of Ponte Vedra; Ambrose Kinnare, Christopher Grota and Gavin Daino of St. Augustine; Ryan Houck of Fleming Island and Barton Abstein of St. Johns. Nancy Coxof Ponte Vedra Beach and Kaitlyn Schroeder of Jacksonville are the area's exempt players in the Florida Women's Amateur June 11-14 at the Royal Poinciana Golf Club Cypress Course in Naples. Two area players won or shared qualifiers. Maddie Rathjen of St. Augustine shot 69 to win at the Vanderbilt Country Club and Stella Moritz of Ponte Vedra Beach finished among four players tied for first at 1-under 71 at the Lake Jovita Golf Club. FSGA tournament results Christopher Grota of St. Augustine shot 2-over 217 to win the boys division of the Florida Junior Tour's Innisbrook 13-15 Major. Jack Cole of Jacksonville Beach (223) was fourth and Benny Ossi and Atharva Rajeshkumar of Ponte Vedra tied for seventh (227). ... Ambrose Kinnare of St. Augustine finished two shots out of a playoff in the FJT 16-18 major at Old Corkscrew at even-par 216. Gatlin Albright of Stuart birdied the second playoff hole to beat Reed Weekley of Davie. ... Christine Hunt of Ponte Vedra and Shan Giordano of St. Augustine shot 150 to finish second in the middle division flight of the Florida Women's Four-Ball at Black Diamond on May 30-31. Liz Boudreaux of Atlantic Beach and Paula Holmes of Jacksonville (154) tied for third gross and Fran Clinkscales of Amelia Island and Lou Tenarvitz of Fernandina Beach (157) tied for sixth in the gross division and were second in the net division (134). This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: St. Johns Golf Club's Wes Tucker is North Florida Section Pro of the Year

Anna Paulina Luna on Epstein, J.F.K. and U.F.O.s.

The sweeping effort to dismantle Black-majority congressional districts in the South will have far-reaching consequences for all Americans, and for our democracy.

When looking for a great place to watch futbol in the Jacksonville area, think football. With the World Cup coming to North America, fans will gather to cheer on their favorite soccer teams and, in many cases, they’ll do it at the same places they gather to watch the Jaguars and the Gators. Just about any bar with a television and a license to show the matches is likely to have one on, and some places will cater to fans of a specific national team. This year’s tourney is being played in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, so you won’t even have to get up in the middle of the night to see your favorite team. Here are some places that plan on catering to World Cup fans throughout the tournament, which will include 104 matches running from June 11 to July 19. World Cup 2026: What every soccer fan needs to know, from A to ZThe Block Jax 7520 Quarter Mill Drive, theblockjax.com The outdoor food hall/dog park/music pavilion/kids’ playground has a huge LED wall that will be put to good use during the World Cup. Dozens of matches are on the schedule, with at least one showing nearly every day. While you’re there, enjoy the fare at one of the eight restaurants at The Block. Players Grille 600 Park St. No. 10, and 1040 San Jose Blvd., playersgrille.com Players now has two locations for watching the World Cup, one in Mandarin that opened in 2023 and a newer location inside the Home 2 Suites by Hilton hotel off Interstate 95 in the historic Brooklyn neighborhood. Both offer a full kitchen and plenty of TVs for watching your favorite matches. Sneakers Sports Grille 111 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, (904) 482-1000, sneakerssportgrille.com With 10 jumbo TV screens and a zillion smaller ones, you won’t miss any action. They also have a dog-friendly outdoor patio with its own screens, in case Fido’s a big fan. Spanish-language matches will be shown at the nearby Ajua Mexican Kitchen & Bar. Strings Sports Brewery 1850 N. Main St., (904) 475-2970; 1618 Penman Road, Jacksonville Beach, (904) 746-7933, stringssportsbrewery.com Kick back with a Bullet Bob hazy IPA at the place that was voted as Jacksonville’s favorite local brewery. They have a ton of TVs at both the Springfield location, built into an old service station, and at the Beaches, where Strings is housed in an old general store. Wobbly Whale Public House 6460 U.S. 1, St. Augustine, (904) 257-3211, thewobblywhale.com Fans of the British and Scottish teams might feel at home at the Wobbly Whale, which is housed in a cottage and features European fare and pints of Guinness and other ales. It’s not a sports bar, but if the televisions are on, they are showing sports. Walk-on's Sports Bistreaux 495 Durbin Pavilion Drive, St. Johns, (904) 946-7719, walk-ons.com You’d be hard-pressed to find a seat that doesn’t have a view of at least a few of the 55 televisions at Walk-ons, part of a national chain co-owned by NFL Hall of Famer Drew Brees. Walk-ons started in Louisiana, so expect a bit of spice on the menu. This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Best bars to watch the World Cup in Jacksonville

“I’ve been working hard on different parts of my game” – Braiden Graham plots pre-season push to impress Moyes(Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty Images)Braiden Graham has said he wants to keep improving and break into the Everton first team, after earning his first international call up this month.Graham has been included in the Northern Ireland squad for this month's camp and was an unused substitute during the 1-0 win over Guinea on Thursday. He could make his international debut against France on Monday night.The 18-year-old's inclusion is reward for his prolific exploits at youth level, where he scored 26 goals for Everton's u-21 side in 2025/26 to win the Under-21s' Player of the Season award.Graham has also scored prolifically for the national team at youth level, including nine goals in 13 Under-19 appearances for Northern Ireland.He now has the chance to impress Michael O'Neill with the national team, before his senior debut for Everton. However, Graham has his sights set firmly on winning David Moyes's trust in pre-season.“I’ve had a good season and enjoyed it – scoring goals and playing well – and I’m really happy to receive the Under-21s Player of the Season award,” Graham told evertontv.“I’ve been working hard on different parts of my game – on and off the pitch – so I’m happy I’ve kicked on this season and done well.“I’ll keep working hard in the off-season and then come back and hope to have a good pre-season and kick on – maybe go on loan or stay here.”

Padres' Manny Machado doesn't mince his words for the team's poor play originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The San Diego Padres leave Philadelphia knowing the Phillies have their number, sweeping them for the second time in 10 days. The Phillies' six-game season sweep of the Padres is the second time the Phillies have swept the Friars in a six-game season series, doing so in 2005 (July 22-25 and August 12-14).The loss against the Phillies is the latest in the Padres woes, as they have won one game in their last 10 and have been outscored 45-26 in that span. As frustrations began to mount, third baseman Manny Machado didn't mince his words when talking about how bad the Padres are. Manny Machado doesn't hold back his feelings on the San Diego Padres struggles“People are frustrated,” Machado told MLB.com's AJ Cassavell. “The fans want us to win games. So do we. We’re more frustrated than anybody. We want to turn things around. Everybody on this ballclub is trying to do that. So we’re going to keep working, just know that we’re still in a good position, even though we’re playing like [expletive].“But things will turn around. It’s a long season. There’s still a lot of baseball to be played. This group in here knows it. All we can do is keep working. Things will change.”More MLB News:CJ Abrams can make Nationals/Expos history with All-Star nodThe Padres are the worst team in Major League Baseball in scoring runs (235), getting on base (.291) and only the New York Mets are worse at slugging the baseball (.359), with the Padres one point ahead (.360). Machado hasn't helped the Padres during their struggles, as the seven-time All-Star has been ice-cold. In the 15 games, Machado is batting .148 with 18 strikeouts in 54 at-bats, but has five home runs for a .444 slugging percentage. Machado did offer a positive message in all the bitterness: “I don’t think it can get worse,” said a sullen Manny Machado from the visiting clubhouse in Philadelphia. “I mean, there’s only one way: Up.”The Padres begin a three-game series with the Mets on Friday, who have played .500 baseball in their last 10 games. Facing the worst team in the National League East (27-35), this series could get the Padres back on track. More MLB News: Blue Jays acquire starting rotation depth from the TwinsPhillies' Kyle Schwarber's efforts may not be enough to start the All-Star gameDiamondbacks' Corbin Burnes suffers massive setbackDodgers' Shohei Ohtani seems poised to win his fourth straight MVP awardPhillies' Kyle Schwarber seems poised to finish second fiddle for MVP again

The Phillies adding Mike Trout would be great, but it seems unlikely originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.One of the more well-known secrets surrounding the Philadelphia Phillies is that they will be looking to add a right-handed bat at the August 3 trade deadline.The Phillies have seen little production from their outfield, and their offseason signing, Adolis Garcia, has not performed well overall (.196 batting average and .591 OPS). However, Garcia has gotten off to a good start in June, collecting three hits (one double and a home run) in 10 at-bats. Despite Garcia's recent success, Phillies right fielders are 23rd in OPS (.625) and slugging percentage (.339). The rest of the outfield hasn't been better, with Phillies left fielders ranking 17th-best in OPS (.693) and their center fielders at 14th in MLB (.662). The Philadelphia Phillies could be going (Mike) Trout fishing at the trade deadlineAll the rumors surrounding the Phillies at the trade deadline have Millville, New Jersey native Mike Trout returning home. However, Trout would need to okay a trade, given his status as a 10-and-5 player and a full no-trade clause.More MLB News:CJ Abrams can make Nationals/Expos history with All-Star nodAccording to Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly, he doesn't think the 11-time All-Star will be traded to the Phillies; rather, he believes Trout's teammate, Jo Adell, is a likely candidate to land with the Phillies. "We're inclined to think Trout won't want to be traded, but if he does, the Phillies might become the most likely landing spot given that the Millville, NJ native grew up as a Phillie sports fan," writes Kelly."The Phillies could also consider trying to acquire a piece they think could take another step forward and become a star in their organization, like [Jo] Adell or Heliot Ramos [San Francisco Giants]."Trout would bring more power to the Phillies, mashing 14 home runs to the Phillies' outfield's combined 12. Trout also has a strong ability to get on base, leading Major League Baseball in walks, with 60. This is 16 more than the Phillies outfielders: Garcia (20), Brandon Marsh (10), and Justin Crawford (14) have collectively. Having the three-time MVP would give the Philles someone to protect Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber. Schwarber has been batting leadoff for the Phillies as of late, but adding Trout would allow him to slide back into the two-hole, where he's been productive (batting .247 with a 1.020 OPS and 21 home runs in 182 at-bats). More MLB News: Blue Jays acquire starting rotation depth from the TwinsPhillies' Kyle Schwarber's efforts may not be enough to start the All-Star gameDiamondbacks' Corbin Burnes suffers massive setbackDodgers' Shohei Ohtani seems poised to win his fourth straight MVP awardPhillies' Kyle Schwarber seems poised to finish second fiddle for MVP again

Oliver Lewis won the first Kentucky Derby.For more than a century, those seven words largely remained as the only fact known about the jockey who rode Aristides to victory in 1875.Now the rider — a former slave who was 18 when he made history — will be commemorated on horse racing's most hallowed ground, beneath the twin spires at Churchill Downs.Churchill Downs will unveil a statue of Lewis, designed by his descendants and based off one of the only existing photos of Lewis, on June 24 at 11 a.m. with a dedication ceremony in the Clubhouse Gardens.It is believed to be the first statue of a black jockey at a horse racing track in the U.S.More: Oliver Lewis won the first Kentucky Derby atop Aristides. His story doesn't end thereHow did the Oliver Lewis statue come to be?When Rodney Van Johnson, the great-great-grandson of Oliver Lewis, and his uncle, David Johnson, visited Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May just two years ago, it was the first time a member of their family had stepped foot at the track since the first Kentucky Derby.Lewis again rode Aristides in 1875, this time in the Belmont Stakes, finishing second, but Henry Price McGrath, the horse's then-owner and a notorious gambler, picked a different jockey to ride the champion horse at other big races.Aristides is already cemented in history outside the main gates of Churchill Downs, with the twin spires framing his likeness in full stride.In the lead up to the 150th Kentucky Derby two years ago, The Courier Journal told the story of that very first race in a way it had never been told before: from the viewpoint of the first jockey to win it all. In response, Lewis' family was invited to Louisville as part of festivities in the run-up to the big race.The idea for a permanent reminder of his great-great-grandfather took hold of Van Johnson while at the track in 2024. Of the first 28 Kentucky Derbys, 15 were won by Black jockeys. But as segregation swept through the nation, Black jockeys were pushed out of the industry. The last Derby to be won by a Black jockey was in 1902 by Jimmy Winkfield. Van Johnson didn't want it be another anniversary year before the public celebrated not just the horse but also the jockey of the race that started it all."I thought that pretty much, if we build it, we will get it placed," Van Johnson told The Courier Journal. "I wanted to have a statue made and have it for our family because what Oliver did is such a huge accomplishment."Van Johnson created the Oliver Lewis Foundation, which preserves the legacy of Lewis beyond his time as a jockey and includes his work as an entrepreneur and innovator. Lewis is credited with creating the modern day racing form.The foundation designed the statue based on a photo of Lewis standing next to a fence post, the only known photo of him from around the age he was when he won the Derby. Van Johnson figured if Churchill Downs wouldn't accept the Lewis statue, he'd ask the city of Cincinnati, where Lewis and his family eventually relocated, to place the piece of history somewhere in its city limits.Lewis was part of Cincinnati history too, living in the Kenyon-Barr neighborhood. Cincinnati's Urban Renewal Department wanted to renew a part of the city that was seen as "the slums," a thriving neighborhood with thousands of establishments ― from churches and restaurants to other local businesses. It was Cincinnati's Harlem. And the story of its demolition can be summed up as this: It is the largest displacement of families in American history, with 25,000 people, including Lewis' family, displaced.But Van Johnson thought Lewis' impact on history would best be on display where he created history."So much history is lost in the horse racing industry," Van Johnson said. "Black jockeys were moved out because of racism. It was very sad. So, I think it’s going to be a great opportunity. This is going to be a forever mark that so many young kids and people will get to know."Stephanie Kuzydym is an enterprise and investigative reporter. She can be reached at skuzydym@courier-journal.com. Follow her at @stephkuzy.This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Churchill Downs Oliver Lewis first Kentucky Derby winner jockey statue

The Cincinnati Bengals have been talking more than ever this offseason. Duke Tobin was front and center after the season for the first time, while other names have gotten into the mix more than usual around events like the NFL draft. And now we’ve got Bengals assistant general manager Steve Radicevic making an appearance and talking about roster upgrades. During an interview on The Crown, a new Cincinnati-based network, Radicevic said that the Bengals aren’t done adding to the roster. Radicevic said: “Are we happy with where things are and the way the offseason went? Yes, but we’re still working to try and build as many pieces as we can to try to get us to the Super Bowl.”Granted, what else would Radicevic say, right?But the reality is simple enough. The Bengals never did go out and add that veteran linebacker they seem to want. That could still be on the way. And something like a swing offensive tackle backup to push and help Cody Ford as depth seems likely. Two things seem certain: The Bengals will keep adding during this aggressive offseason and, given everything that they have going for them, they will continue to be a hot destination for top free agents.This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals say they aren't done...but what else will they add?

It's been a busy offseason for the Pittsburgh Steelers and a big part of it has been writing some big checks. The Steelers brought back quarterback Aaron Rodgers and gave him a raise up to $22 million, gave edge Nick Herbig a massive $100 million contract, signed multiple big-money free agents and re-signed tight end Darnell Washington to more than $10 million per season.Here are three things all these big paydays could mean for the Steelers.They don't plan to pay a quarterback anytime soonThe Steelers are likely doing all this because they know that for the next three seasons, they are rolling with Will Howard and/or Drew Allar at quarterback and going cheap at the position. This lets them spend elsewhere and hope they can defer that big quarterback contract for a few seasons.Someone is getting tradedI don't care what any insiders are saying; if the Steelers get a call and it's an offer they can't resist, T.J. Watt or Alex Highsmith is getting traded. The Steelers are walking a fine line with their salary if any injuries happen, so we are leaving the option to make a trade very much open.Next year's free agents are going to be in troubleWith so much money going out this offseason, the Steelers might not be in any rush to extend any players. It could also mean guys who have massive cap hits now will be asked to restructure their deals to push that money down the road and make space under the salary cap.This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 3 things these contract extensions could mean for the Steelers

The 2026 FIFA World Cup opens with its group stages June 11, kicking off a multi-nation battle for soccer (or football) supremacy. If you're looking for a spot to catch the United States men's national team or any other club, Indianapolis offers several locales with plenty of screens. Here are some of the bars, restaurants and other venues around the Indy area where you can watch the World Cup from next Thursday until the final game on July 19. Ale Emporium8617 Allisonville Road, (317) 842-1333, ale-emporium.comIf there's a match on, this north-side gastropub will be showing it on multiple screens. The Castleton location of Ale Emporium kicked off the festivities May 31 with the U.S. men's team's pre-tournament friendly against Senegal and will keep the party rolling through the World Cup final. The 21+ establishment serves a selection of wings, sandwiches and pizzas alongside a robust beer selection. Ale Emporium's Greenwood and Fishers locations, which hosted similar events during the 2022 World Cup, have not yet announced watch parties for 2026.BURN by Rocky Patel110 S. Meridian St., (317) 602-2260, burnbyrockypatel.comThe downtown location of this Florida-based cigar lounge will air every match during the bar's standard hours from June 11-19, including both U.S. group stage matchups, alongside its lineup of cigars and cocktails. The United States' duel versus Australia on June 19 is scheduled for 3 p.m., which will roll into the bar's happy hour from 4-6 p.m.Chatham Tap719 Massachusetts Ave., (317) 917-8425; 4702 Sunset Ave., (317) 606-2500; 8211 E. 116th St., (317) 845-1090, chathamtap.comThe bar that regularly opens in the wee hours of the morning to show Premier League matches promises "you will never watch alone" during the 2026 World Cup. Chatham Tap's non-soccer offerings include pub fare like fish and chips, burgers and wings. You can stay up to date with the bar's variable hours throughout the group and knockout stages at chathamtap.com/worldcup2026.Fishers Event Center11000 Stockdale St., Fishers, (463) 244-2224,fisherseventcenter.comThe open-air plaza outside this 7,500-seat arena will host free, all-ages watch parties for the U.S. men's team's group stage matchups against Paraguay (9 p.m. on June 12), Australia (3 p.m. on June 19) and Turkey (10 p.m. on June 25). Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and/or blankets.Kona Grill14395 Clay Terrace Blvd., (317) 566-1400, konagrill.comEvery match day from June 11 through the World Cup final, the Carmel location of this Denver-based bar and grill will run a special match day menu with discounted sushi, loaded fries, wings and burgers ($3 to $9) as well as a pair of themed cocktails dubbed the yellow card (whiskey, pineapple juice, coconut and lime, $9) and red card (Michelob Ultra and michelada mix, $9), plus other drink specials.Tin Roof36 S. Pennsylvania St., (317) 951-2220, tinroofindianapolis.comFrom June 11 through July 19, the downtown outpost of this Nashville-based music bar will run specials every day except Friday and Sunday during World Cup matches. Some of the daily specials include $2 off draft beer on Tuesdays, $5 mystery shots on Wednesdays and, also on Wednesday, a $6 coffee-based cocktail called the mind eraser.Tom's Watch Bar140 S. Illinois St., (317) 559-2049, tomswatchbar.comStocked with more than 100 screens that are nearly impossible to avoid while walking or driving up Illinois Street downtown, Tom's Watch Bar intends to show every match of the World Cup from the group stages to the final. Walk-ins are welcome, though you can also secure a VIP table at about $100 per person (food and beverage credit included) if you want to skip lines and have the best seat possible to get beamed with the light of a stadium-sized television.Union Jack921 Broad Ripple Ave., (317) 257-4343, unionjackpub.coClassic pub grub including nachos, fries and wings, plus a much more robust vegan selection than you might expect from an English-themed pub, appear on the menu at this Broad Ripple institution. Though Union Jack has not announced specific watch parties for the 2026 tournament, it has been a mainstay for soccer fans during the last two World Cups.Contact dining reporter Bradley Hohulin at bhohulin@indystar.com. You can follow him on Instagram @BradleyHohulin and stay up to date with Indy dining news by signing up for the Indylicious newsletter.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indy-area spots with watch parties, specials for the 2026 World Cup

Pakistan overcame a stern challenge from Australia's spinners on a difficult surface to secure a four-wicket victory in the third and final ODI and seal the series 2-1 on Thursday, marking their third successive bilateral one-day series triumph over the world champions.Chasing a modest target of 158 on a turning wicket in Lahore, Pakistan were made to work hard before reaching 161/6 in 41.5 overs. All-rounder Shadab Khan starred with an unbeaten 29 after earlier taking two wickets, while Abdul Samad remained unbeaten on 18 as the pair guided the hosts home with an unbroken stand after Pakistan had slipped to 112/6.“It was a complete team effort throughout the series,” Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said after finishing with figures of 3-30. “The conditions were tough for the batters, but every run counted and all of our bowlers executed their plans well.”Australia collapse despite Inglis resistanceAustralia, who won the toss and opted to bat, were bowled out for 157 in 42 overs — their lowest ODI total in Pakistan. Josh Inglis fought a lone battle with a gritty 65 off 71 balls and shared useful partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey, but the visitors suffered another dramatic collapse.After reaching a relatively comfortable position, Australia lost their last seven wickets for just 38 runs as Pakistan's pace and spin attack tightened the screws.Haris Rauf triggered the slide by dismissing Carey before Afridi struck twice in one over with the old ball, removing Inglis and Cameron Green. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed claimed 2-19, while Shadab ended a run of five wicketless ODIs with figures of 2-28. 131524146Shadab and Samad finish the jobPakistan's chase was also far from straightforward. Babar Azam top-scored with a patient 40 off 84 deliveries before left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who finished with 3-38, cleaned him up with a delivery that spun sharply to hit the off stump.With Pakistan six down and the match finely balanced, Shadab and Samad showed remarkable composure on the abrasive surface. Australia failed to find another breakthrough and Shadab eventually sealed victory in style by smashing Adam Zampa to the long-on boundary.“A bit like the first game, we were just too many runs short,” Australian captain Josh Inglis admitted after the defeat.

Iran will head off to their World Cup base ⁠this weekend with ⁠a spring in their step after beating Mali 2-0 in a friendly in Turkiye, even if some uncertainty still clouds their ⁠participation in the tournament.Goals from midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi and right back Ramin Rezaeian either side of half-time on Thursday gave Team Melli a record of three wins and ⁠a single loss in their four friendlies this year in the Turkish resort city of Antalya.The friendlies are the only competitive football the Iran-based players have contested since the domestic league was suspended in the wake of US and Israel ‌air strikes on the Islamic republic in late February that triggered a regional war.The squad have received visas for Mexico, officials confirmed this week, and will leave Turkiye on Saturday for their tournament base in the border city of Tijuana.Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum agreed to host the squad after being told that the US authorities did not want Iran staying in their original ⁠base in Arizona throughout the June 11 to July 19 ⁠tournament.The squad have not yet received the visas they will need to get into the US to play their group games against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in ⁠Seattle, however.Iranian FA (FFIRI) President Mehdi Taj told Iranian media this week that the US visas were the main concern ⁠for the federation as Iran’s tournament opener against New ⁠Zealand on June 15 approaches.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday there was “no problem” with the Iran squad entering the country, but Washington would not let officials or staff with ties ‌to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) accompany them.Both the US and Canada, who are cohosting the World Cup with Mexico, classify the IRGC as a “terrorist entity”.Taj was ‌refused ‌entry into Canada for the FIFA Congress in late April because of his links to the elite military force.

Nature, Published online: 05 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01610-9European governments are choosing European digital tools — and some universities and researchers are doing the same.

📆 Return date set, Barça begin pre-season on 13 JulyThe FC Barcelona first team already knows its roadmap for the start of the 2026/27 preseason. The side managed by Hansi Flick has the return to action marked on the calendar as it prepares for a demanding season.The blaugrana players will return to work on July 13. As usual, the first few days back from vacation will be devoted exclusively to the traditional medical and fitness tests.After the first training sessions on the pitches at the Joan Gamper Sports City, the coaching staff has planned an international preparation phase. Barça will travel to England for an intense preseason training camp.Training camp in England at the end of JulyThe blaugrana squad will stay at St George's Park from July 27 to August 3. These facilities are a major benchmark in English football and the usual base of the England senior national team.It will not be the first time the Catalan club has visited this high-performance complex. Barcelona already had a productive preseason stay at these same facilities in the summer of 2014, a year that ended in historic fashion.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

🏆 6 days to go: test your knowledge in the World Cup quizThere are 6 days left until the 2026 World Cup.To get us in the mood for the World Cup, OneFootball has prepared a series of special quizzes. Every day, until June 11, a brand-new quiz about the World Cup.Click here to take Quiz 6 and show that you know everything about the World Cup.And let us know in the comments whether you got 10/10 or if it was really difficult.Missed a Quiz? Take the previous ones too:Quiz 7Quiz 8 Quiz 9 Quiz 10Quiz 11 Quiz 12Quiz 13Quiz 14Quiz 15Quiz 16 Quiz 17 Quiz 18Quiz 19Quiz 20Quiz 21Quiz 22Quiz 23Quiz 24Quiz 25Quiz 26Quiz 27Quiz 28Quiz 29Quiz 30This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Roma To The Champions League: What Do They Need To Do This Summer?Roma are back in the Champions League, but being there and being serious contenders are two very different things. Roma’s third-place finish changes the mood around Trigoria. The club ended Serie A with 73 points, 59 goals scored and only 31 conceded, winning its final five league games to edge into Europe’s top competition ahead of Milan and Juventus. The 2-0 win at Verona returned Roma to the Champions League for the first time since 2018-19, the realities of modern football meaning it was worth heralding a financial as well as a sporting return to the Champions League. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side has a clear base, though the summer has to add goals and pace, while protecting the defensive structure that carried them there.Keep The Defensive Base IntactRoma’s clearest strength is defensive reliability. Only Como conceded fewer in Serie A than Roma’s total of 31, while Inter conceded four more and Napoli five more. That gives Roma a foothold in the Champions League because Gasperini’s man-oriented system can survive tricky nights if the back line and goalkeeper stay sharp.So the first summer rule is simple: don’t weaken the spine. Mile Svilar, Gianluca Mancini, Evan Ndicka and Manu Koné should be treated as platform players unless a sale becomes absolutely unavoidable.Champions League football will add midweek stress and rotation pressure, so it looks like Roma need defensive cover and one wing-back with real carry-and-cross output.The Weakness Is In The Final ThirdRoma’s attack cleared the Serie A bar for ‘Champions League standard’, yet the Champions League itself demands a higher ceiling. Inter scored 89 league goals and Como scored 65, giving both a wider attacking margin. Roma’s 59 goals point to the obvious gap: they need more repeatable chance-creation and a second reliable route to goal when Dybala is managed carefully.Donyell Malen’s impact was decisive, but one hot attacking spell cannot be the whole plan. Artem Dovbyk has his qualities as a target man, yet Gasperini’s football needs forwards who press and attack space from different angles. That explains the links to Joshua Zirkzee and Gianluca Scamacca, two forwards who offer different versions of hold-up play and box presence. Football Italia reported that Roma remain interested in Zirkzee and could also rival Milan for Scamacca.The Betting Market Sees Roma As A Long ShotEarly Champions League outright markets place Roma among the outsiders rather than the favorites. Available futures prices have generally sat around 40/1 to 50/1, or roughly +4000 to +5000 in American odds, which is likely the sort of range Canadian sportsbooks may display where available.Roma are dangerous, but the titans of PSG, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid start from a higher squad-value and European-experience base. For Canadian users betting on AS Roma’s fortunes for next season, the sensible first step is using a high-quality review site like SportsbookReview.com to compare the best bonus offers and best sportsbooks overall. Its Canadian bonuses page rates operators, promo values, codes, market coverage, app notes and terms guidance. This helps you find a sports betting sign up bonus available in Canada that can lower your risk in multiple respects, before placing any long-range futures bet. Reported Targets Need A Clear FilterThe names should be judged by role fit. Zirkzee would make sense if Roma want a mobile striker who can knit attacks together. Scamacca would bring a more Italian, penalty-box reference point. Meanwhile, two of Gasperini’s reported targets, Antonio Nusa and Crysencio Summerville fit the need for direct wide speed.Mason Greenwood has also been reported as a major attacking target. The football case is clear enough: left-footed, productive and comfortable from the right. The wider calculation is more complicated given his controversial history, so Roma would need to weigh cost, wages, fan reception and dressing-room impact before treating him as the headline move.Benfica’s Richard Rios is another logical reported profile. A midfield runner with Champions League minutes would help Roma sustain Gasperini’s intensity. At fullback, options like reported transfer targets Mario Mitaj from Al Ittihad, or Jayden Oosterwolde from Fenerbahce, would address the same issue from a different angle: Roma need more athletic width.Where Roma Should Be CreativeHypothetically, Roma should have fallback lists ready. If Zirkzee or Scamacca becomes too expensive, they need a younger pressing forward in the Brian Brobbey mold: strong and mobile. If the wing market overheats, they should look for a wide forward with Johan Bakayoko-style traits: one-on-one threat, pressing appetite, left-footed delivery and resale value.The mistake would be signing famous names who do not increase the team’s tempo. Roma need pace, repeat sprints, press-resistance and clean final-third decisions. In Champions League terms, one more ball-carrier could be as valuable as one more finisher.A Summer Built Around ClarityRoma need to be very clear on where their weaknesses lie. Ideally, two starting-level attackers, one athletic fullback, defensive cover and a midfield rotation option would all be needed to galvanise the side, if the budget allows.That is a big summer, but it is not an impossible one. Gasperini has already given Roma identity. The market now has to give that identity enough speed and scoring power to survive Wednesday nights as well as weekends.

Roma interested in Brahim Diaz, but deal appears difficultThe Champions League is an important showcase for attracting players from big clubs to join Roma. Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, which will return to Europe’s top club after seven years, has initiated initial discussions with Real Madrid regarding Brahim Diaz. The Moroccan player, who previously played in Serie A for AC Milan, may find limited space in José Mourinho’s new Real Madrid, and the Blancos may be open to a transfer.According to Gianluca Di Marzio, however, the attacking midfielder appears strongly inclined to stay in Madrid for next season, effectively closing the door to any offers. In addition to Roma, other European clubs are also trying to inquire about Brahim, but the 1999-born player has so far rejected everything. In the recently concluded season, he made 44 appearances across La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Champions League, scoring two goals and providing seven assists. The number one target for strengthening the attack at the moment remains Mason Greenwood. The Giallorossi management has no intention of repeating last summer’s Sancho affair and will not participate in any offers: either Marseille accepts the Roman club’s offer or they will turn to other options.

As we get ready to embark on another long, grueling college football season, it’s important to gain perspective about the teams going to battle. We will be discussing the Big Ten conference, which has made a strong running in recent years to be considered the best conference in the nation, taking home each of the last three national championships. There’s no guarantee that it will be four years in a row, but there is more than enough firepower in the Big Ten to get the job done. Today, we’ll be discussing Ohio State, who is consistently one of the top teams in the country and won the national title in the 2024 season. They had a bit of a backslide in 2025, but they are looking to return to contention this season.Here is a quick look at the Ohio State Buckeyes heading into the 2026 season.Quick 2025 recapRecord: 12-2, 9-0 Big TenBowl result: Lost Cotton Bowl to Miami, 24-13It’s not often that a 12-2 season is considered a disappointment, but that’s exactly what happened to Ohio State last season. Riding high off a national championship victory, they had a dominant regular season that was spoiled in the last game by Indiana in the Big Ten championship game. Despite having nearly a month off after their first defeat of the season, the Buckeyes couldn’t shake off the rust against the Hurricanes, dropping their first and only Bowl Game to the eventual runner-ups. There are no participation trophies or moral victories for a school like Ohio State, so they’ll be exhausting all their energy into trying to get back to the top of the mountain.Head coach: Ryan Day, 9th seasonRecord: 82-12The Buckeyes have been a college football juggernaut for more than 30 years and head coach Ryan Day has continued that legacy. He’s lead the team to double-digit wins in seven of his eight seasons and has never finished a year with a losing record. Day has also given the team their second national championship game victory and will try to capture another one after three of their last four seasons ended in losses. Ohio State seemed to become a bit of an afterthought thanks to the cinderella run by the Hoosiers, so Day and his players will try to remind the world of who they are this season.Offensive player to know: Jeremiah Smith, Wide receiverYou’d be hard pressed to find a single football fan on the planet who hasn’t heard the name Jeremiah Smith. The soon-to-be junior standout is widely considered to be a once-in-a-generation talent who has been torturing opposing defenses since he was 18 years old. He’s already accumulated 2,558 yards and 27 touchdowns in his two-year career, and another campaign with eye-popping numbers may see him secure his position as the No. 1 selection in the 2027 NFL Draft. Smith is one of the best prospects that this sport has seen in decades, so make sure you pay close attention to what is almost assuredly his final college season.Defensive player to know: Kenyatta Jackson, Edge rusherKenyatta Jackson is hoping to have an explosive 2026 season, as it will ultimately be his last. After being relatively quiet for his three years in college, the former four-star recruit finally showed the talent that brought him to Ohio State last year, racking up 6.5 sacks. Arvell Reese and Caden Curry, the team’s two sack leaders last season, have now moved on to the NFL, which should mean a much bigger role for Jackson. Another successful season for the promising edge rusher could see him walking across the stage next year joining his former teammates.Does Penn State face Ohio State in 2026?No, the Nittany Lions don’t play the Buckeyes this season, marking a rare occurrence where the two teams don’t face off. They could always meet in the Big Ten championship or a Bowl Game, but that’s about it.Full 2026 Ohio State football scheduleHome games in all CAPSSeptember 5 vs. BALL STATESeptember 12 at TexasSeptember 19 vs. KENT STATESeptember 26 vs. ILLINOIS*October 3 at Iowa*October 10 vs. MARYLAND*October 17 at Indiana*October 31 at USC*November 7 vs. OREGON*November 14 vs. NORTHWESTERN*November 21 at Nebraska*November 28 vs. MICHIGAN*"*" designates Big Ten Conference gameFollowNittany Lions Wire on X andFacebook.This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: What to know about Ohio State football in 2026

2026-06-05T09:51:20Z WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate blocked an extension early Friday of a key surveillance program used by U.S. intelligence agencies as concerns mounted over President Donald Trump’s selection of federal housing finance regulator Bill Pulte to serve as director of national intelligence.Some Republicans joined Democrats in the 47-52 vote against a a procedural motion that would have set up a final vote on the extension next week, complicating efforts to extend the critical program before it expires on June 12. The vote came after an overnight session on separate legislation funding immigration enforcement agencies.Senate Majority Leader John Thune said following the vote that the Senate “will take another run at it” next week but that Democrats’ opposition is a “terribly irresponsible position.”“The naming of Pulte to that position, although the timing arguably wasn’t the best, I still don’t think it ought to derail something that’s this important,” Thune said. The vote marked the latest setback for Trump and intelligence officials, who have spent months pushing to extend a key provision of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that allows agencies such as the CIA, National Security Agency and FBI to collect communications from foreign targets without a warrant. Concerns that the program can incidentally sweep up Americans’ communications left Republican leaders only able to pass short-term extensions while negotiations continued. Critics wanted a warrant requirement when those communications are accessed. Read More Seven Republican senators joined nearly all Democrats in voting against the bill, with Sen. John Fetterman voting for it.Sen. Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee who had worked to negotiate the bill, voted against it. He said earlier Thursday that he and committee Chair Sen. Tom Cotton had reached what he described as a “compromise” on a “strong bill,” but that the “complete irresponsibility of putting forward” Pulte had changed the equation. Pulte has seen pushback to his appointment from both Democrats and Republicans for his lack of experience and past controversies. Thune said the position shouldn’t be “weaponized” and should be led by “professionals.” “Does anybody think it makes good sense to give him the keys to the 18 intelligence agencies?” Warner said.Trump on Thursday said Pulte would not be his “permanent” choice for the critical security post.Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., a longtime critic of the surveillance system, said the bipartisan vote was proof that “reform efforts transcend red and blue.”“It’s a message that Americans aren’t going to stand for law abiding people being spied on,” Wyden told The Associated Press. The Senate is expected to revisit the legislation when lawmakers return next week. Any agreement would still need to clear the chamber’s 60-vote threshold before heading to the House, where lawmakers have yet to resolve differences over a provision restricting a central bank digital currency that House Republican leaders added to secure support for the bill.—Associated Press reporter Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report. JOEY CAPPELLETTI Cappelletti covers Congress for The Associated Press. He previously reported on Michigan politics for AP. twitter mailto

Plus, the Friday news quiz.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia is seeking re-election as his country weighs questions of war and peace, of autocracy and democracy, and of subjugation and independence.