FOOTBALL

Yamal says he is “happy again” after historic first La Liga hat-trick

Lamine Yamal
March 2026

Yamal scored his first career hat-trick in Barcelona’s 4-1 win over Villarreal and said he has come through a difficult spell this season, feeling better again after earlier physical and mental struggles. He referenced a groin issue and a broader dip in happiness and rhythm, saying he is smiling again on the pitch; the treble pushed him to 18 goals in 34 games, matching last season’s total in fewer matches and placing him among the youngest hat-trick scorers in Spanish top-flight history.

Yamal hat-trick sinks Villarreal as he dedicates first match ball to his mother

Lamine Yamal
March 2026

Yamal scored a hat-trick in Barcelona’s 4-1 win over Villarreal and said he will give his first match ball to his mother, as Barca moved four points clear of Real Madrid. Yamal struck three left-footed finishes into the far corner, Villarreal pulled one back from a corner, then Barcelona finished the job with a late Lewandowski goal; Yamal was substituted to a standing ovation.

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.

Ronaldo misses early penalty and limps off as Al-Nassr rally to reclaim top spot

Cristiano Ronaldo
March 2026

Al-Nassr came from behind to beat Al-Fayha 3-1, retaking first place from Al-Ahli despite Ronaldo missing a penalty and leaving injured. Ronaldo skied an early spot-kick after a controversial penalty call, Al-Fayha went ahead via an Al-Amri own goal, then Al-Nassr turned it with Mane’s tap-in from Coman’s cross and a Felix shot that rebounded in off the goalkeeper; Smalling starred defensively despite the collapse.

Salah “increasingly likely” to leave as Liverpool weigh cash-in option

Mohamed Salah
February 2026

Reports claim Salah may leave this summer, with Liverpool preferring a sale rather than risking him running his contract down toward a free departure. Tension has followed a public complaint about being benched, later apologised for, plus January exit talk that did not happen; with his contract clock ticking, Liverpool could choose to sell to protect value.

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.

Onana backed to battle Lammens for United spot after Trabzonspor loan

Andre Onana
February 2026

Onana is expected to return from Trabzonspor and fight to regain United’s starting goalkeeper role rather than push for a permanent exit. After being dropped early in the season and loaned out following Lammens’ arrival, Onana’s camp believes a fresh opportunity could open with management uncertainty, and he plans to compete for the shirt.

Barcelona decide to buy Rashford, €30m fee planned in instalments

Marcus Rashford
February 2026

Barcelona are reported to be ready to sign Rashford permanently, paying €30m (£26m), split into three €10m annual instalments. Reports say Rashford’s impact has convinced Barca, but final approval still depends on contract structure and fitting his wages within La Liga financial rules.

Milner details six-month setback after complication left foot unusable

James Milner
February 2026

Milner revealed a complication from a routine knee operation led to a serious issue where he could not lift his foot or toes for six months. What was expected to be a short absence became a long layoff due to post-operation complications affecting function in his foot and toes.

West Ham’s £104.2m loss raises Bowen sale risk if relegation hits

Jarrod Bowen
February 2026

West Ham reported a £104.2m loss and warned relegation would be financially severe, with reports suggesting Bowen could be sold if funds need raising. The club cited relegation as its biggest risk, noted an expanded wage bill, and flagged player trading as a possible response; reports link United and Spurs as potential suitors if West Ham go down.