Off-Pitch & Press

Antony confronts Betis fans after Sevilla derby collapse ends 2-2

Antony
March 2026

Antony was filmed arguing with Betis fans following a 2-2 draw with Sevilla after Betis blew a 2-0 lead, despite Antony scoring an early overhead-kick opener. Betis raced into a first-half two-goal advantage and appeared in control, but their discipline dropped after the break and they conceded twice, triggering post-match tension in the stands with Antony seen reacting angrily.

Mourinho claims refereeing is warping Liga Portugal as Benfica chase “real vs virtual” table

Jose Mourinho
March 2026

Mourinho said Benfica are competing in two “classifications” and suggested officiating has distorted the title race, hinting he could consider leaving if conditions do not improve. He framed a “real” table that counts and a “virtual” one he uses as motivation, saying the squad knows “what has been happening,” while speaking ahead of the Gil Vicente match with Benfica third on 55 points.

United senior players reportedly back Carrick as club also weighs Roberto Martinez

Michael Carrick
March 2026

Reports claim United’s senior players prefer Carrick to stay on permanently after a strong interim run, while the club has also discussed Roberto Martinez as a possible long-term appointment. Carrick’s tactical adjustments and man-management are cited as winning over key figures after issues under Ruben Amorim; separately, Martinez’s Premier League experience and expected Portugal exit have reportedly put him on United’s internal shortlist as the club plans for 2026-27.

Ekitike warns he can score more after starring in Liverpool’s 5-2 win over West Ham

Hugo Ekitike
March 2026

Ekitike scored and created goals as Liverpool beat West Ham 5-2, then said he is not satisfied with his goal return despite reaching 16 in all competitions. He pointed to missed chances in recent games and a four-match scoring drought, framing his output as improvable while stressing contributions through assists and overall involvement as Liverpool push for a strong finish.

Farke sent off after Leeds loss to City as he rages at officials

Daniel Farke
March 2026

Leeds boss Daniel Farke received a red card after the 1-0 defeat to Manchester City following an angry confrontation with the match officials. Farke challenged multiple decisions after full-time and had to be restrained; City’s win kept pressure on Arsenal in the title race with Semenyo scoring the decisive goal.

Rodrygo calls missing out on Cristiano Ronaldo his biggest career regret

Rodrygo
February 2026

Rodrygo said his biggest football regret is not getting the chance to play with Ronaldo, describing him as his role model. Rodrygo’s move to Madrid could only be completed after he turned 18, meaning he arrived after Ronaldo had already left for Juventus, eliminating the chance to share a pitch.

Roberto Martinez says Ronaldo is less focused on 1,000-goal chase

Cristiano Ronaldo
February 2026

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez claims Ronaldo is no longer preoccupied with reaching 1,000 career goals, despite Ronaldo previously framing it as a major target. Ronaldo continues scoring for Al-Nassr and has restated motivation around trophies and longevity, while Martinez suggests his mindset has shifted as his career enters its final phase.

Stuart Pearce urges City to keep Guardiola long-term, even in director role

Stuart Pearce
February 2026

Guardiola is being tipped to stay at Manchester City for as long as possible, with Pearce suggesting a future transition into a director of football role rather than a clean exit. Pearce argues replacing Guardiola is a major risk for continuity and style, and says City’s owners should prioritise retention and succession planning inside their wider multi-club structure.

Lee Sharpe says Amorim benching could help Mainoo’s England comeback

Kobbie Mainoo
February 2026

Lee Sharpe believes Mainoo’s struggles for minutes under Amorim may ultimately benefit him, as he rebuilds confidence and form under Carrick and re-enters England contention. After falling down the pecking order, Mainoo has returned to regular involvement since the January change in leadership, giving him a clearer platform to force a Tuchel recall

Mainoo contract talks still not started as Carrick keeps faith after Amorim freeze-out

Kobbie Mainoo
February 2026

Manchester United have reportedly not opened new contract talks with Mainoo despite his return to the XI under Carrick and lingering uncertainty over his long-term commitment. After being sidelined under Amorim and reportedly considering a loan exit, Mainoo has re-entered the lineup; Carrick is deliberately limiting criticism to rebuild confidence while United retain leverage via an extension option.

POPULAR ARTICLES