REPUBLIC

‎Bruno Fernandes, a key player for Manchester United, has emerged as a prime summer transfer target for Real Madrid, according to a recent report. As per the Daily Star, the Spanish giants have been keeping a close eye on Fernandes throughout the current season, with scouts attending United's matches at Old Trafford to assess the Portuguese midfielder's capabilities ahead of a potential move. ‎ ‎' Bruno Fernandes. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Real Madrid sees Fernandes as a long-term successor to Luka Modric, whose future at the club remains uncertain. United, however, are likely to demand a club-record fee to part ways with their star player, with reports suggesting that the asking price could exceed £90 million ($116 million), surpassing the £80 million Real Madrid paid for Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009. ‎ ‎Despite the interest from Madrid, Manchester United remains determined to retain Fernandes. However, the club's financial position, influenced by concerns over P...

‎Barcelona have successfully reclaimed their two-point lead atop La Liga, securing a resounding 4-1 victory over Girona. Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Barcelona produced a clinical performance, highlighted by Robert Lewandowski’s brace and Lamine Yamal’s deflected free-kick. ‎ ‎Barcelona player ratings vs Girona. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The match began with Barcelona exerting pressure early on. They dominated the opening 10 minutes, testing Girona's defense with several attempts on goal. Fermin Lopez, who was involved in the action early, thought he had won a penalty after being fouled in the area. However, a VAR review overturned the decision, awarding Girona a free-kick instead. ‎ ‎The first half saw Barcelona come close on numerous occasions. Ronald Araujo nearly opened the scoring with a header from a corner, but Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga made a remarkable save to deny him. Despite their efforts, Barcelona’s attack was frustrated by Girona’s resolute defense, ...

‎Inter Miami’s strategy for managing Lionel Messi’s workload in the 2025 season has been carefully outlined to ensure his continued success. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has been given a balanced schedule to maintain his peak form, with the club ensuring that he is capable of playing consecutive games without risking long-term injury. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Messi recently made a crucial impact in Inter Miami's 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union, coming off the bench to score just two minutes after his introduction. His goal helped secure three more points for the Herons, maintaining their unbeaten start to the season. ‎ ‎Despite his impressive contribution, Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, clarified that Messi’s playing time remains closely managed. Mascherano suggested Messi would participate in the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final against LAFC on Wednesday. In a recent press conference, he explained, “Th...

‎Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Sporting CP's highly-rated defender, Goncalo Inacio, with a summer move on the horizon. According to A Bola, Inacio has long been a target for the Red Devils, who have tracked his progress over the past few years. Although United initially focused on Leny Yoro, speculation around Inacio remains, leaving room for a potential future approach. ‎ ‎' Goncalo Inacio. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Sporting CP have set a firm price tag of €45 million (£38 million / $49 million) for the 22-year-old, signaling their reluctance to part ways with the defender for anything less. United’s recent transfer strategy has focused on younger talents with long-term potential, and Inacio fits perfectly into this model. Known for his composure on the ball, ability to play out from the back, and experience at both the club and international levels, Inacio represents a promising addition to United’s defense. ‎ ‎A defensive overhaul at Old Tra...

Former Chelsea star Adrian Mutu has openly admitted that his use of cocaine during his career cost him the chance to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or, a title he believes was well within his grasp. ‎ ‎' Adrian Mutu. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Mutu’s time at Chelsea was both brief and tumultuous. After joining the club from Parma, the Romanian forward initially showed promise. However, his tenure quickly spiraled following a falling-out with manager José Mourinho and struggles with personal issues. Mutu’s career in the Premier League came to an abrupt end when he was banned for eight months after testing positive for cocaine. This incident led to his dismissal from Chelsea, marking a disgraceful end to his time in London. ‎ ‎In a candid interview with The Telegraph, Mutu reflected on his decisions and the impact they had on his career. "Taking cocaine during my time at Chelsea was the worst decision I could have made," he confessed. "I was alone and ...

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has come under pressure to make a bold decision ahead of the 2026 World Cup – replacing Cristiano Ronaldo with a younger forward to give his team the best chance of success. ‎ ‎' Cristiano Ronaldo. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Cristiano Ronaldo, who has led Portugal to victory in both the European Championship and Nations League, has yet to capture the elusive World Cup. However, as the Al-Nassr forward turns 40, questions are being raised about his ability to compete at the highest level. His physical decline and reduced influence on the pitch are becoming increasingly apparent. ‎ ‎Several former players and pundits, including ex-Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann, have voiced concerns over Ronaldo's place in the national team. Speaking to CardPlayer.com, Hamann noted, “Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact at the last European Championship was limited, and considering he will be another year older by the 2026 World Cup, his influence will likely dec...

‎Premier League clubs, notably Manchester United and Arsenal, have reportedly been monitoring two promising talents from Olympiacos, Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas, over the past few months. Both players are widely regarded as key figures in Greece's emerging golden generation of footballers. ‎ Manchester United and Arsenal scout Olympiacos stars Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas. Getty Images (2) ‎Mouzakitis, a left-footed central midfielder, made history in November by becoming the youngest-ever debutant for Greece in a senior international match against Finland. Meanwhile, Kostoulas, primarily a number nine or second striker, has garnered significant attention from several top clubs. ‎ ' Christos Mouzakitis. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Despite this interest, Olympiacos sporting director Darko Kovacevic has confirmed that Kostoulas will not be leaving the club anytime soon. He stated, "There is growing interest in hi...

‎Manchester United has received a potential cash boost amid ongoing transfer speculation surrounding former academy graduate Mason Greenwood. Following a productive loan spell at Getafe in La Liga, the Red Devils agreed to part ways with the forward in the summer of 2024. Greenwood secured a £27 million ($35 million) transfer to French club Olympique de Marseille, where he has enjoyed a solid debut season at the Stade Vélodrome, netting 15 goals in Ligue 1. ‎ ‎' Mason Greenwood. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎However, despite his impressive performance on the field, Greenwood’s attitude has reportedly come under scrutiny by Marseille's manager Roberto De Zerbi, which has led to speculation about a possible departure. Recent rumors suggest that a move elsewhere may be on the horizon. ‎ ‎As the winter transfer window approaches, Ruben Amorim, Marseille’s manager, could potentially benefit from additional funds to strengthen his squad. Nonetheless, transfer expert Fabriz...

‎UEFA has initiated an investigation into Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos following their involvement in controversial incidents during Real Madrid’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 on March 12, 2025. ‎ ‎' Kylian Mbappe ' and ' Vinicius Jr. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎The investigation was prompted by reports of alleged "indecent conduct" by the players, with key incidents under scrutiny. One of the most notable involves Antonio Rudiger, who was captured on camera making a throat-slitting gesture, apparently directed at Atletico Madrid fans. Meanwhile, social media footage appears to show Mbappe making a crotch-grabbing gesture during post-match celebrations. ‎ ‎As part of the disciplinary process, UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the conduct of these players. If the investigation concludes with a guilty verdict, the inv...

AC Milan’s ongoing search for a new sporting director has created uncertainty surrounding Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s future at the club, which could have wider implications for Arsenal. According to reports from Italy, the iconic striker’s current role at Milan may be at risk as the club’s leadership undergoes a shift. ' Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ' Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Ibrahimovic, who has taken on an executive position at AC Milan as an advisor to the club’s RedBird ownership, has been a prominent figure in key footballing decisions. His influence extended to hiring coaches such as Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceicao, and even interviewing candidates for the sporting director role. However, his position appears to be evolving, with Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani now tasked with overseeing sporting matters after discussions with RedBird’s Gerry Cardinale. ‎ ‎The 2025-26 season could mark a turning point for Ibrahimovic’s involvement at Milan, especially as his presence has been nota...

‎Ex-Arsenal midfielder Anders Limpar has suggested that Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be the perfect candidate to replace Edu Gaspar as Arsenal's sporting director, following Edu’s surprise resignation in November 2024. Limpar described the potential acquisition of the AC Milan legend as a "dream," commending Ibrahimovic's remarkable mentality and leadership qualities. ‎ ‎' Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Edu Gaspar’s resignation from his position as sporting director of Arsenal came in November 2024, as he decided to take on a new challenge with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Reflecting on his departure, Edu expressed deep affection for Arsenal, stating, “Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.” ‎ ‎With the role of sporting director now vacant, Limpar has voiced strong support for Ibrahimovic to step in and take over the position. Currently serving in ...

‎Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has sustained an unfortunate injury after a dramatic head collision during Brazil's 2026 World Cup qualifier against Colombia. The 32-year-old was forced to leave the pitch after a clash with former Tottenham Hotspur player Davinson Sanchez. The incident occurred in the 70th minute, just 25 minutes into the second half, with both players left on the ground following the collision. ‎ ‎' Alisson Becker. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Following medical attention on the field, Alisson was replaced as part of concussion protocols. Brazil’s team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, confirmed that the goalkeeper was substituted due to a suspected concussion. Alisson will now undergo a series of tests, beginning with a CT scan and diffusion MRI. If these results are normal, he will then undergo a cognitive evaluation, followed by further observation over the coming days. Lasmar assured that Alisson did not lose consciousness and remained alert during treatme...

Tyson Fury, former world heavyweight champion, has announced his retirement from boxing. Fury last fought in December, losing a rematch with WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk. The 36-year-old Fury had previously proclaimed his retirement after beating Dillian Whyte in April 2022, but returned six months later. Tyson Fury press conference after second Oleksandr Usyk defeat. Getty Images The Briton has been heavyweight champion twice and has a record of 34 wins, two losses, and one draw. "Hi everybody, I'm going to make this short and sweet," Fury said. "I'd like to announce my retirement from boxing, it has been a blast, I've loved every single minute of it and I'm going to end with this; Dick Turpin wore a mask." In 2015, the Briton stunned long-time world champion Wladimir Klitschko by winning the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles. After more than two and a half years out from the ring to deal w...

Following reports that he agreed to a five-year, $182 million contract with the reigning World Series champions, Blake Snell is expected to join the Los Angeles Dodgers' all-star rotation. The team has yet to formally announce the deal. Snell did, however, feed conjecture by posting a photo of himself in Dodgers clothing on social media. The agreement, which includes a $52 million signing bonus and deferred installments, is still pending a physical. Blake Snell. Brandon Sloter/Image Of Sport/Getty Images Snell became one of the most sought-after free agents this winter after an incredible 2023 season with the Padres, when he captured his second Cy Young Award and topped the league with a 2.25 ERA. The Dodgers' pursuit of Snell was not new. After previous attempts to acquire the left-hander during his time with the Giants and Padres, the organization made him their top summer target. Adding Blake Snell improves the Dodgers' chances of defending their World Series...

Dallas Cowboys supporters are going through it. The 2024 NFL season has been a nightmare for America's Team, with no indications of life. Dallas Cowboys. Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images Every time they hit the field at AT&T Stadium, things go horribly wrong, with pieces of the roof collapsing on the field. Things went from bad to worse after the Houston Texans defeated them 34-10. The Texans not only celebrated their victory over Dallas, but they also ridiculed the team in dramatic way, mocking all of the team's faults, including the roof. If we're being honest, the Texans' social media administrator did an excellent job. At this point, the Cowboys can only laugh. The season is a disaster, division rivals are thriving, and the squad is managed by a lame-duck head coach. If you can't laugh at everything crumbling, it's going to be a difficult two months. So, like the Cowboys, take the loss on the chin and enjoy the fun that is coming Big D's way... ...

Rodrigo Bentancur's seven-game suspension has prompted Tottenham fans to question the regularity of the FA's rulings, particularly the case this year involving Chelsea player Enzo Fernandez. Rodrigo Bentancur. Getty Images An independent regulatory authority banned Bentancur from domestic competitions for seven games and fined him £100,000 for comments he made to a reporter against Spurs captain Son Heung-min. Tottenham has a certain amount of time to determine whether to appeal the judgment. The Uruguayan will miss six Premier League games and the Carabao Cup quarterfinal against Manchester United before returning to play on Boxing Day. Because it is a domestic punishment, the 27-year-old is permitted to participate in Tottenham's two Europa League games against Roma and Rangers during the suspension. The commission proved that the Tottenham midfielder violated FA Rule E3.1 by acting inappropriately, using abusive and/or insulting language, and/or bringing the ...

Jon Jones established his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time by stopping Stipe Miocic with a spectacular kick to retain his heavyweight belt at UFC 309. Jones stops Miocic with spinning kick to retain title. Getty Images Jones defeated fellow American Miocic with a thudding spinning back kick in the third round at New York's Madison Square Garden, making his first title defense. Jones, 37, stated that he intends to continue his UFC career, but would not specify if his next bout will be against Britain's interim champion Tom Aspinall. "As far as my future in the octagon, I decided that maybe I will not retire," Jones told reporters. "I'll have some conversations and we have some negotiating to do and if everything goes right, maybe we'll give you guys what you want to see." Miocic, 42, announced his retirement following loss. "It sucked that I lost. I knew he was among the finest of all time. Came on st...

Jake Paul defeated Mike Tyson by unanimous decision in an eight-round heavyweight bout at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Friday. Paul won the bout by scores of 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73 from all three judges. Jake Paul , left, dominated Mike Tyson in a unanimous-decision victory Friday night in Arlington Texas. Stephen McCarthy/Getty Images The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation sanctioned the bout, which was contested in 2-minute rounds, and both fighters used 14-ounce gloves rather than the standard 10-ounce gloves used in heavyweight contests. Tyson, 58, and Paul, 27, a YouTuber-turned-boxer, were supposed to fight on July 20, but the bout was postponed when Tyson required medical care for an ulcer flareup on a trip from Miami to Los Angeles in May. Tyson (50-7, 44 KOs) became the youngest heavyweight champion at the age of 20 in 1986, and a year later he unified all three major titles to become the undisputed champion. Prior to his historic upset de...

Jake Paul, a former child star and social media personality who began boxing professionally in 2020, will face former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson on Friday in a fight that will be livestreamed globally on Netflix. Mike Tyson vs . Jake Paul. Ed Mulholland/Getty Images Here's what we know about Paul and Tyson's pay, as well as other financial details of an event that many consider more of a spectacle than a sport. How much is Mike Tyson getting paid for the fight? Mike Tyson, 58, is regarded as one of the best boxers of all time, and his net worth is estimated to be $10 million by Celebrity Net Worth. That is a small figure in comparison to the hundreds of millions of dollars "Iron Mike," as he is known, has earned during his career, including $400 million in bout purses, according to Forbes. Tyson has also worked his way back over the previous decade, after declaring bankruptcy at the age of 37 in 2013.  Though Tyson's promoters have not revealed h...