FOOTBALL

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.

Ronaldo hits 965th goal as Al-Nassr crush Al-Najma 5-0 to stay top

Cristiano Ronaldo
February 2026

Al-Nassr won 5-0 to extend their winning run and keep first place, with Ronaldo scoring a VAR-awarded penalty and adding an assist, while Mane and Coman were also on the scoresheet. An early spot-kick set the tone, then Al-Nassr’s quality overwhelmed Al-Najma with two first-half goals; Ronaldo teed up Mane after the break and Martinez added another from a corner to complete a dominant rout.

Casemiro targets AC Milan switch as Man United confirm summer free exit

Casemiro
February 2026

Casemiro is expected to leave Manchester United on a free and is reportedly keen on joining AC Milan, with MLS also monitoring his availability. United opted not to renew and publicly confirmed his departure; after a poor spell late under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, Casemiro has played a key role in Carrick’s recent upturn, boosting his market appeal ahead of a final decision.

Barella blames December Liverpool penalty for Inter’s path to Bodo/Glimt upset elimination

Nicolò Barella
February 2026

Following Inter’s shock Champions League elimination by Bodo/Glimt, Barella said a prior refereeing decision was the real turning point that put Inter into the play-off round. He pointed to a late December penalty for Liverpool, scored by Szoboszlai, arguing the dropped point cost Inter a top-eight league-phase finish and forced a risky knockout route that ended in the upset.

Neymar slammed after Santos exit as critics demand tactical adjustment in World Cup push

Neymar
February 2026

Neymar returned from injury and played 90 minutes, but drew criticism for under-par form and being blamed for the opening goal as Santos were knocked out by a Serie B opponent. Critics argue his current role disrupts the team’s structure and want him to adapt, while Vojvoda publicly backed his fitness, confidence, and gradual improvement as Neymar targets a Brazil recall for the 2026 World Cup.

Man United monitor Morgan Gibbs-White with £60m clause as Fernandes succession planning begins

Morgan Gibbs-White
February 2026

United are reportedly tracking Gibbs-White and could consider triggering a £60m release clause, with Fernandes’ long-term future still being debated. Reports say United want replacements who fit a new wage structure, while outside voices have also floated Cole Palmer as an ideal Fernandes successor; Gibbs-White’s recent output for Forest keeps him on multiple clubs’ radars.

Bodo/Glimt stun Inter at San Siro to reach Champions League last 16 for first time

Bodø/Glimt
February 2026

Bodo/Glimt eliminated Inter 5-2 on aggregate to reach the Champions League last 16 for the first time, winning 2-1 away after a 3-1 first leg. Inter controlled possession but Bodo punished mistakes, including an Akanji giveaway that led to another Hauge goal, then added a second through Evjen; Bastoni pulled one back too late.

Mbappe ruled out of Benfica second leg after knee issue in training despite Arbeloa optimism

Kylian Mbappé
February 2026

Mbappe is expected to miss Real Madrid’s Champions League play-off second leg vs Benfica after suffering knee pain in training. Reports say tests made it “impossible” for him to play, contradicting Arbeloa’s earlier claim that Mbappe was ready, leaving Madrid to defend a 1-0 first-leg lead without their star.

Antony breaks down after late miss as Betis settle for 1-1 draw with Rayo

Antony
February 2026

Antony was consoled after collapsing in tears when he missed a late opportunity, with Betis drawing 1-1 against Rayo Vallecano. The moment capped a high-emotion night for the winger, whose career arc has swung from an expensive Manchester United spell to a productive loan at Betis and then a permanent return, where he has been key in their push for Champions League places.