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.
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.
Arne Slot
February 2026
Arne Slot responded to Wayne Rooney’s claim that he lacks “aura,” arguing that trophies create perception and pointing out he has already won the league, while Liverpool now fight to secure Champions League qualification. Rooney questioned Slot’s presence after a drop-off in Liverpool’s second season, comparing the backdrop of Klopp’s reign. Slot countered that managers are different, Klopp clearly had aura, and winning increases it.
Felix Nmecha
February 2026
Borussia Dortmund plan contract talks with Felix Nmecha as Premier League interest grows from Manchester United and Chelsea, with the club describing him as “incredibly important” after a strong season and a standout Champions League display. Dortmund want improved terms to protect his value and deter suitors, with Kehl publicly praising Nmecha’s ability to solve situations, create space, and generate numerical advantages. The club aims to act before the summer market accelerates.
Liam Rosenior
February 2026
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior publicly supported Vinicius Jr following alleged racial abuse in Real Madrid’s Champions League play-off against Benfica, saying anyone found guilty of racism should not be in football as an investigation continues into what was said. The controversy has intensified amid public reactions from high-profile figures and Benfica’s defence of their player. Reports say Prestianni could face a minimum 10-game ban if found guilty, while he has denied the allegation in a social media statement.
Mark Clattenburg
February 2026
Mark Clattenburg apologised for “clumsy” analysis after suggesting Vinicius should have simply returned to position following his goal, during a match halted for 10 minutes under UEFA protocol after alleged racist abuse involving Prestianni. After Vinicius scored, an exchange with Prestianni at halfway led Vinicius to report the incident to referee Letexier and the match was paused. Clattenburg’s on-air remarks drew backlash, including criticism from Kick It Out’s Troy Townsend.
Vinicius Junior
February 2026
Vinicius Junior issued a statement alleging Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni directed a racial slur at him. The match was stopped for around 10 minutes after Vinicius reported the alleged abuse to referee Francois Letexier and FIFA’s racism protocol was activated. After scoring the winner and being booked for his celebration, Vinicius argued with Prestianni, then reported the alleged slur. Players briefly left the pitch during the protocol pause before play resumed. Vinicius later criticised the process as ineffective, while the CBF publicly backed him and reiterated that racism is a crime.
Jose Mourinho
February 2026
Jose Mourinho said Benfica “cannot be a racist club” after Vinicius Junior alleged abuse involving a Benfica player, prompting activation of FIFA’s racism protocol and a 10-minute stoppage. Mourinho also suggested Vinicius escalated the situation after scoring. Following Vinicius’ goal and celebration, an exchange with Prestianni led to protests and the protocol being initiated. Mourinho was later sent off for dissent, then defended Benfica post-match and argued incidents follow Vinicius across stadiums.
Kylian Mbappé
February 2026
Mbappé missed group training for a second day with recurring left-knee discomfort, creating doubt over his availability for Real Sociedad and concern ahead of Benfica. He worked in the gym away from the squad and did not join on-pitch tactical work. No official medical report was cited, but the continued absence close to matchday signals Real are managing the issue cautiously.
