Ben Simmons
September 2025
Former All-Star Ben Simmons is weighing retirement at age 29 as injuries and mental struggles derail his once-promising career. After three All-Star nods and Rookie of the Year honours, Simmons has battled chronic back and nerve issues alongside criticism of his shooting. Once a 12+ FGA player, he averaged just 4.4 attempts last season with Brooklyn and LA.
Boston Celtics
September 2025
The Boston Celtics, 2024 NBA champions, face calls to tank the season after losing Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Jayson Tatum to injury or exits. With a depleted squad, Caroline Fenton suggested embracing a rebuild and targeting local star prospect AJ Dybansta in the draft. Despite remaining talent, analysts believe Boston no longer has a championship-calibre roster.
Alejandro Garnacho (Chelsea)
September 2025
New Chelsea signing Alejandro Garnacho admitted he grew up supporting the Blues because of Eden Hazard, risking backlash from Manchester United fans who once hailed him as their academy jewel. Garnacho joined Chelsea for £40m after Ruben Amorim excluded him from United’s plans. Inspired by Hazard’s balance and flair, Garnacho said Stamford Bridge already feels like home as he looks to emulate his idol.
Ruby Mace (Leicester City)
September 2025
Everton Women have signed Ruby Mace from Leicester City in a record-breaking deal, ending their summer-long pursuit of the 20-year-old midfielder. The move reflects new ownership’s ambition. Everton secured Mace until 2027 after Leicester resisted earlier bids. Known for her dynamic midfield control, Mace impressed during loan spells and quickly rose as one of England’s brightest prospects, prompting Everton to act decisively.
Federico Chiesa (Liverpool)
September 2025
Federico Chiesa was excluded from Liverpool’s Champions League squad due to homegrown player quotas, despite being a marquee signing last summer. The decision leaves him sidelined for the competition’s first phase. With only 17 non-homegrown slots available, Chiesa lost out to youngster Rio Ngumoha, leaving Liverpool to submit just 22 names out of a possible 25. The omission is seen as a brutal blow to Chiesa’s confidence.
Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil)
September 2025
Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar’s latest exclusion from Brazil’s squad was a deliberate technical decision, not an injury concern, extending the forward’s wait for another cap despite his strong club form. Ancelotti stressed selection is based on both fitness and tactical suitability. While praising Neymar’s technical brilliance, he highlighted that only fully fit and system-adaptable players will make the 2026 World Cup squad, where nearly 70 names are being considered.
Casemiro (Manchester United)
September 2025
Casemiro turned down a lucrative transfer to Al-Nassr, prioritising a strong season at Manchester United to maximise his World Cup chances under Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti. The 33-year-old believes regular Premier League football will cement his spot. Trusted by Ancelotti from their Real Madrid days, Casemiro hopes consistent club form will earn selection for USA-Canada-Mexico 2026. With 77 Brazil caps, he feels his experience remains crucial as the Selecao chase their first title in 23 years.
Matheus Cunha (Manchester United)
September 2025
Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha reassured fans his muscle injury, which forced him off against Burnley and out of Brazil duty, is not as serious as feared. Cunha posted on Instagram that he will “be back soon,” thanking supporters for their messages. Despite worries of a long-term absence, the 26-year-old remains optimistic, having started all four of United’s games this season.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
September 2025
Mohamed Salah hit back at fan criticism comparing Liverpool’s former forwards Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez unfavourably to new arrivals Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, calling the remarks disrespectful. Salah reminded fans Diaz and Nunez were vital in Liverpool’s title-winning season. Diaz scored 13 goals with seven assists, while Nunez added five goals, proving their contribution before moving to Bayern Munich and Al-Hilal respectively.
