FOOTBALL

Deco Denies Joao Pedro Meeting as Barca Search for New No. 9

Deco, Barcelona, Joao Pedro, Robert Lewandowski
21 May 2026

Deco denied meeting Joao Pedro over a Barcelona transfer but admitted the club are exploring options to replace Robert Lewandowski. The sporting director said finding a successor to the departing striker is almost impossible after his Camp Nou farewell.

Barcelona are assessing several forwards after Lewandowski’s farewell at Camp Nou. Deco praised his legacy and said decisions are needed, while also pointing to Ferran Torres as one player who has adapted into a central role.

Antony Rejects Surgery Talk After Brazil Squad Snub

Antony, Real Betis, Brazil, Manchester United
21 May 2026

Antony ruled out surgery on a chronic groin injury after being left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad. The Real Betis winger said he feels good and will continue conservative treatment instead of facing a long layoff.

Real Betis dismissed claims that Antony would need three to four months of rehabilitation. His omission from Brazil’s squad gives him time to manage the osteitis pubis issue after a productive season in Spain and avoid rushing treatment.

Romero Criticised for Missing Tottenham Survival Decider

Cristian Romero, Tottenham, Everton
21 May 2026

Cristian Romero has been criticised for choosing to travel home to watch Belgrano instead of attending Tottenham’s final-day relegation decider against Everton. The injured captain is unavailable because of a knee problem and is already under scrutiny.

Romero had previously supported team-mates from the touchline, making the timing of his trip more sensitive. Tottenham face a high-pressure survival match, while his boyhood club Belgrano meet River Plate in a title decider on the same day.

Spence Ready to Wear Mask After Broken Jaw Blow

Djed Spence, Tottenham, Liam Delap
19 May 2026

Djed Spence is expected to play in a protective mask after suffering a broken jaw during Tottenham’s Premier League defeat to Chelsea. The injury came from an elbow by Liam Delap in a physical flashpoint.

Spence shared footage of the incident online but is determined to remain available for Tottenham’s final game against Everton. His availability matters because Roberto De Zerbi’s side are dealing with several injuries during a tense relegation battle.

Wolfsburg Held by Paderborn as Relegation Pressure Builds

VfL Wolfsburg, SC Paderborn
21 May 2026

VfL Wolfsburg moved deeper into relegation danger after a tense 0-0 draw with SC Paderborn in the Bundesliga play-off first leg. The top-flight side failed to turn home advantage into a lead before the return match.

Paderborn defended firmly and left Wolfsburg blunt in attack, giving themselves a real chance in the second leg. Jonah Stecker will miss the return after a late second yellow card in stoppage time for the visitors.

Karius Set to Stay With Schalke After Promotion Revival

Loris Karius, Schalke
21 May 2026

Loris Karius is expected to reject Serie A interest and sign a new Schalke contract after helping the club win promotion back to the Bundesliga. The former Liverpool goalkeeper has become a key figure in Gelsenkirchen.

Schalke want stability in goal after years of uncertainty since Manuel Neuer’s departure. Talks have progressed well, while the club also hopes to keep Kevin Müller as backup after his loan spell from Heidenheim impressed staff.

Neymar Faces Brazil Fitness Check Before Final World Cup Warm-Ups

Neymar, Brazil, Santos, Carlo Ancelotti
21 May 2026

Neymar is unlikely to feature in Brazil’s final World Cup warm-up matches as concerns grow over a calf problem. The Santos forward will be assessed when the squad gathers at Granja Comary on 27 May.

Santos described the issue as mild, but Brazil’s internal information suggests the injury may require more caution. Carlo Ancelotti plans to apply the same medical standards to Neymar as every other player before deciding his role.

Merino Returns to Arsenal Training Before Champions League Final

Mikel Merino, Arsenal, Mikel Arteta
21 May 2026

Mikel Merino returned to light Arsenal training after three months out with a fractured foot, giving Mikel Arteta a timely option before the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain and the final league match against Crystal Palace.

Merino worked away from the main group before a planned return to full contact training. Arteta said the process was being carefully managed, with Arsenal hoping the midfielder can handle the intensity of the European final.

Real Madrid Challenger Plans Haaland and Klopp Election Pitch

Enrique Riquelme, Real Madrid, Florentino Pérez
21 May 2026

Enrique Riquelme is preparing to challenge Florentino Pérez for the Real Madrid presidency and reportedly wants to frame his campaign around Erling Haaland and Jürgen Klopp. Candidates must submit their bids before the 23 May deadline.

Riquelme must meet strict club requirements, including 20 years of membership and a large financial guarantee. Reports claim his camp has explored contact around Haaland and Klopp as headline ideas to sway Real Madrid voters.

Germany Bring Neuer Back as First-Choice World Cup Keeper

Germany, Manuel Neuer, Kai Havertz, Serge Gnabry
21 May 2026

Germany named their World Cup squad with Manuel Neuer returning from international retirement as first-choice goalkeeper. Kai Havertz was included, while Serge Gnabry missed out as Julian Nagelsmann settled his final tournament group.

Neuer’s return gives Germany an experienced No. 1 for the summer, while the attacking selection leaves no room for Gnabry. Nagelsmann’s squad choice points to a mix of senior reliability and current form before the tournament starts.