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The Argentine superstar has seen his previous deal at Camp Nou expire, but there remains confidence in Catalunya that fresh terms will be agreed

Lionel Messi is officially a free agent after seeing his contract expire at Barcelona, but with the player wanting to stay put, why are the Catalans struggling to get a deal done - and why can't they register their new signings?


Club president Joan Laporta claims "everything is on track" as he expressed his optimism that Messi, who has been linked with the likes of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, will be staying put.

A salary cap is, however, at the centre of the delay in securing the Argentine's signature, as well as the club's ability to register new players, with Goal explaining below the exact reasons behind the financial struggles.

The former France international believes those at Parc des Princes should not bow to the wishes of a forward stalling on signing fresh terms

Paris Saint-Germain have been advised to bench Kylian Mbappe "all year" if he refuses to sign a new contract, with former France international Eric Di Meco urging the Ligue 1 giants not to bow to player pressure.

A 22-year-old superstar at Parc des Princes is yet to commit to an extended stay in the French capital despite entering the final 12 months of his current deal.

Transfer talk is raging as a result, with World Cup winner Mbappe aware of his standing and appeal in the global game, but PSG boast the financial muscle that would allow them to play hard ball and leave a prized asset to rot in the reserves.

Today's game will be the 13th meeting between England and Germany at Wembley.

After winning four of the first five, most importantly the 1966 World Cup finale, England haven't won any of the last seven.

Today's game will be the 13th meeting between England and Germany at Wembley.

After winning four of the first five, most importantly the 1966 World Cup finale, England haven't won any of the last seven.

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The football administrator is in support of Uefa dismissing the law that has been in existence for 56 years
The decision to put an end to the away goals rule will "return excitement to football", according to Tripple 44 Academy proprietor Samuel Olatunji-Okuku.

European football governing body, Uefa, disclosed on Tuesday that the law which has been in existence since 1965 will no longer be practised as from the 2021-22 campaign.

Justifying this stance, Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin stated the rule now "runs counter to its original purpose" and claimed that it deters teams from playing attacking football.

In a chat with Goal, the well-travelled football administrator shares in the sentiment of Ceferin – claiming that the rule's abolition will bring "justice and equity" to the beautiful game.

“This would bring justice and equity to the game regardless of playing away or at home. Also, it will also return excitement back to the game,” Olatunji-Okuku told Goal.

The international rivals will clash at Wembley on June 29, and the former Three Lions star has a tactical plan to thwart Joachim Low's men

England should face Germany with three centre-backs to counter the threat of Germany in their Euro 2020 round-of-16 clash, according to Gary Neville, who left has left the likes of Jack Grealish and Mason Mount out of his suggested XI.


Following a dramatic conclusion to the group stages, the first knockout fixtures of the European Championship have been confirmed - and perhaps the tie of the round sees two historic international rivals face off at Wembley.

England will play Germany at their home ground on Tuesday, June 29, and debate will rage right up until kick-off as to how Gareth Southgate's Three Lions should line up for such a crucial game.

The attacker joined Iran's former superstar Ali Daei at the top of the list of scorers at the national team level

Cristiano Ronaldo has become the joint-top scoring men's international player of all time.


The Portugal star fired home two goals from the spot against France in a heavyweight Euro 2020 clash on Wednesday.

That takes him up to 109 goals in 176 matches for the national team, putting him at the top of the list of goalscorers on the international stage.

The 26-year-old has not been at his best during the Seleccao's opening two group games as he gets to grips with a different role under Fernando Santos

In a district north of the city of Budapest lies the sports complex that Hungarian side Vasas usually call home.


Historically, they are a club who have enjoyed their own achievements in Europe, reaching the semi-finals of the European Cup in 1958.

But none of their players, past or present, quite compare to the guests who have taken up temporary residency at their home.

Though the club remains in constant dialogue with Jorge Messi, the player's father and agent, no official offer has been made

Barcelona and Lionel Messi are in talks but have yet to agree on a contract extension, Goal can confirm.


Messi's deal at Camp Nou is set to expire at the end of June, meaning he will be a free agent in just over a week.

Though Barcelona remain optimistic over Messi signing an extension, no breakthrough on a new deal appears to be imminent.

Before the swathe of withdrawals, the German already planned to try out new players, but does this bode well for the future?

One of the criticisms thrown at Gernot Rohr has been in his rigid approach and unwillingness to fix what isn’t necessarily broken.

That modus operandi isn’t bad in itself, but there’s always a danger in sitting on one's hands, expecting the individuals on the pitch to find solutions to in-game hurdles.

The German boss got an earful for Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup elimination by Argentina for his basic game management, despite Odion Ighalo missing a huge chance that could have made sure of the Super Eagles’ progress.

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In the 4-4 draw vs Sierra Leone last year, the 67-year-old was reprimanded for an inability to effectively help his team across the line as they lost a four-goal lead on home turf.

Again, the experienced coach’s inadequacies were the refrain, although others chose to censure the players for not taking enough responsibility after half-time.

Having said that, the biggest criticism that typifies Rohr’s approach has been an inclination to lean on a select group regardless of their form and performances. It prompted complaints from Nigerians following the continued call-ups for Elderson Echiejile and Ogenyi Onazi in the past, while the German’s Ahmed Musa bias has been unmistakable.

Ogenyi Onazi
In the same vein, the unwillingness to extend an olive branch to Anthony Nwakaeme — hasn’t played for Nigeria since November 2017 — and Simy — last Super Eagles appearance came in 2018 — for so long, despite their generally good performances for Trabzonspor and Crotone respectively beggared belief.

Be that as it may, the German surprised observers by including the towering Crotone forward in the initial 31-player list for this month’s Cameroon friendly having, more or less, ruled out every possibility weeks earlier due to being contracted to the lowly Pythagoreans.

At the time, Goal looked into the possibility of a different approach to facing the Indomitable Lions, by leaving out established forwards like Victor Osimhen and Kelechi Iheanacho in favour of either uncapped or returning players like Simy.

BUNDESLIGA
Who were the continent’s best performers in the German top flight this season?
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Ramy Bensebaini
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#6 Ramy Bensebaini
Borussia Monchengladbach didn’t match their previous high standards this term, as they finished the year in eighth and fell well short of title contention.

Bensebaini nevertheless continued his progress with a solid campaign, and also chipped in with some goals too—netting four across 25 league outings.

His goal and performance in the 4-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund was among Gladbach’s season highlights.

Felix Uduokhai
Getty
#5 Felix Uduokhai
The towering young defender remains uncapped by Nigeria, although having been called up by Germany for their senior side in late 2020, the Super Eagles need to move fast.

He was a solid operator for Augsburg this season, demonstrating his aerial menace and his quality with the ball at his feet regularly as the Fuggerstadter evaded relegation.

The 23-year-old’s season ended early due to a ankle injury, but he should return stronger next term. However, having been linked with a move to Dortmund, will he still be at Augsburg by then?


Edmond Tapsoba
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#4 Edmond Tapsoba
The centre-back has continued on an upwards trajectory this season, and is now reportedly being targeted by Arsenal ahead of a potential big-money summer move.

Bayer Leverkusen are confident they can keep hold of him—for now—but having impressed in the Europa League, as well as the Bundesliga, the Burkina Faso stopper will likely continue to attract admiring glances.

Ridle Baku
Getty
#3 Ridle Baku
Such an eye-catching presence up and down Wolfsburg’s right flank, Baku made his Germany debut this season—representing the European heavyweights in a friendly against the Czech Republic.

The 23-year-old, who is also eligible for the Democratic Republic of Congo, offers versatility, sensational pace, and is comfortable with both feet.

He’s another player who might pique the interest of Arsenal, who could be seeking a long-term replacement for Hector Bellerin.




Christopher Nkunku
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#2 Christopher Nkunku
Excellent for RasenBallsport Leipzig last term, Nkunku continued in the same vein this season as he continues to establish himself as one of the German new boys’ greatest ever signings.

The 23-year-old’s numbers dropped this season—six goal involvements fewer than last term—but he nonetheless reaffirmed his status as one of the league’s most creative talents.

The Franco-Congolese talent created—on average—2.5 goalscoring opportunities per match this term; with only Filip Kostic, Thomas Muller and Jadon Sancho averaging more.

Silas Wamangituka
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#1 Silas Wamangituka
What a campaign it was for the 21-year-old, making his first steps in a top flight division, as he netted 11 goals for Stuttgart.

Only ten players netted more than him in the Bundesliga this season, and he appeared to be a natured fit for such rarefied climes.

The highlight was his double against Werder Bremen in December—where he was booked for taunting the opposition goalkeeper—while his stunning effort against Mainz in January was also evidence of his talent.

Unfortunately, the youngster’s campaign was cut short due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The Chelsea, who will be a free agent in the summer, is now just seven goals behind the Arsenal legend in the all-time scoring list for Les Bleus

Thierry Henry has praised Olivier Giroud and revealed that he has been speaking to the Chelsea striker as he closes in on his goalscoring record for the French national team.


Arsenal legend Henry is France’s all-time highest goalscorer, having found the net 51 times during his 123 international appearances for his country.

But Giroud, who could feature as Les Bleus face Wales in a friendly on Wednesday, is now just seven goals behind and Arsenal legend Henry says it would be "amazing" if the 34-year-old overtakes him.

Mason Mount Chelsea 2020-21
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CHELSEA

MASON MOUNT

MANCHESTER CITY V CHELSEA

MANCHESTER CITY

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
The 22-year-old provided a key assist as the Blues defeated Manchester City in the European showpiece

Mason Mount was jubilant after helping Chelsea clinch the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Manchester City in the final on Saturday.

The 22-year-old played a key role in his side's win in Porto, providing the assist for Kai Havertz's opener right before half-time.

That goal would prove decisive as the Blues turned in a heroic defensive effort to clinch the second Champions League title in club history.

The Catalan coach's 10-year-wait for another European success goes on after he got his line-up badly wrong in Saturday's 1-0 loss in Porto

Manchester City 0-1 Chelsea: Match Statistics

Pep Guardiola knew exactly what the criticism would be if his big Champions League gamble didn't pay off.

The Manchester City manager has been accused of repeatedly overthinking European matches in the 10 years since he last lifted the trophy with Barcelona.

The presentation ceremony is underway in Porto, the sunset long since turned to dusk. It's a long night for Manchester City, who head up to collect their medals, trudging slowly.

They'll be back stronger next season, surely, but it is not the ending they intended. They finish as domestic double winners - but the one they most crave is not theirs. Instead, it goes to a Premier League rival fast making themselves a regular thorn in their side.

The Belgian superstar is being tipped for a return to his former club this summer despite achieving glory in Italy this season

Former Chelsea star Joe Cole thinks that Timo Werner will continue to have a starring role at Chelsea but says that Inter's Romelu Lukaku is an option that his old club can't refuse.

With Antonio Conte leaving Inter in part due to the club's diminished funds, there are signs that the Serie A champions may struggle to keep hold of their star striker.

Even though Chelsea have been able to reach the Champions League final against Manchester City and achieve a top-four finish, they are known to want to add a star striker. Tottenham's Harry Kane and Dortmund's Erling Haaland are on the list, but Lukaku currently looks like the most viable option for Chelsea.

The Blues boss gave the definitive team news update ahead of Saturday's final against Pep Guardiola's side

Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Chelsea have a full complement of players ahead of their Champions League final against Manchester City on Saturday.

N'Golo Kante has recovered from a thigh problem that he sustained against Leicester, while Edouard Mendy has avoided serious injury after colliding with the goal post against Aston Villa on Sunday.

The Blues haven't had any further setbacks, taking a 25-man squad to Porto ahead of the match at Estadio do Dragao.

Two years after parting company with the Old Lady, the Italian is back in Turin and looks set to belatedly revamp the Bianconeri squad

Arrigo Sacchi still regrets returning to AC Milan in December 1996.

During his first stint at San Siro, between 1987 and 1991, he won a Scudetto and two European Cups with one of the finest sides the club game has ever seen.

His second spell would not be so successful, with Sacchi parting company with Milan after just over six months in charge, in the wake of a dismal 11th-placed finish in Serie A.

Sacchi had known that Milan were in a bad way when he took over, but he grossly underestimated the enormity of the rebuilding job, particularly in terms of the quality and mentality of the players.

REAL MADRID
UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus for Super League plot
Peter McVitie
Super League Florentino Perez Andrea Agnelli
Getty/Goal
REAL MADRID

JUVENTUS

SERIE A

BARCELONA

PRIMERA DIVISIÓN
While the other nine teams involved in the project have been dealt light punishments, the three holdouts face more severe repercussions

UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus because of their part in the Super League project.

The Spanish and Italian clubs were among the 12 founding members of the competition intended to compete with the Champions League.

The majority of teams involved withdrew from the plot days after it was announced in April due to threats from football associations and protests from fans.

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CRYSTAL PALACE V ARSENAL
The Ivorian scored twice as the Gunners beat Roy Hodgson's side 3-1 at Selhurst Park

Mikel Arteta hailed Nicolas Pepe after the Ivory Coast international scored twice as Arsenal beat Crystal Palace 3-1 on Wednesday night.

The victory was not enough to keep the Gunners' hopes of qualifying for the Europa League alive, with sixth-placed West Ham's 3-1 win at West Brom meaning it is now impossible for Arteta's side to finish any higher than seventh this season.

But Arteta was still full of praise for Pepe, who struck in either half as the Gunners made it four successive wins in the Premier League.

Diego Simeone's side came from behind to beat Osasuna and maintain their two-point lead over Real Madrid ahead of the final round of fixtures

For much of 2021, Atletico Madrid have looked like throwing away their chance at a first league title in seven years.

On Sunday, it was the same story. Until Luis Suarez decided otherwise.

With less than 10 minutes to go in the penultimate round of fixtures, Diego Simeone’s side allowed Zinedine Zidane’s exhausted but relentless Real Madrid to temporarily move top of La Liga and take control of the title race.

Manchester City need 3 points to be crowned Premier League Champions for the 5th time or if Manchester United lose at home to Liverpool tomorrow.

Chelsea (H) next Saturday.
Newcastle (A)
Brighton (A)
Everton (H)

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The Brazilian is averse to tracking back but the new PSG coach can still find a key role for the superstar forward within his grand tactical plan

“Guardiola started his philosopher thing. I was barely listening. Why would I? It was advanced bullsh*t about blood, sweat and tears, that kind of stuff.”

- Zlatan Ibrahimovic, 'I Am Zlatan'

Mauricio Pochettino’s first few months in charge of Paris Saint-Germain have shown great promise, but with minimal time on the training ground since his February appointment, the tactical cohesion on show is mostly a new-manager bounce.

The awarding of the prize was cancelled in 2020 and the world's best players are again making their cases to claim the coveted individual honour

After being cancelled in 2020, the Ballon d'Or is back, with the great and good of the football world again eyeing the biggest individual honour the game has to offer.

Although the prize will not be handed out until December, performances over the coming weeks will go a long way to deciding who will and won't be in contention to succeed 2019 winner Lionel Messi.

With the season heating up heading into its final month before a couple of major summer tournaments, the world's best players are beginning to come to the fore.

Bruno Fernandes Paul Pogba
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MANCHESTER UNITED

PAUL POGBA

PREMIER LEAGUE

LEEDS UNITED V MANCHESTER UNITED

BRUNO FERNANDES
The Portuguese playmaker has been a revelation for the Red Devils, but claims working with a French colleague has aided his cause

Bruno Fernandes considers Paul Pogba to be "one of the best players in the world" and says working with the Frenchman at Manchester United has helped to raise his own game.

A 26-year-old Portuguese playmaker has been a revelation at Old Trafford, with a role as club talisman taken on from the moment he walked through the doors in January 2020.

Fernandes is often the man that the Red Devils look to for inspiration, with 36 goals and 22 assists to his name, but there is plenty of talent around him - including a World Cup winner who has rediscovered a spark as part of an exciting midfield unit.

impossible for players to be banned from international play for partaking in the competition
By Clever Advertising
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has dismissed threats from UEFA president Alexander Ceferin, who said that players participating in the Super League "will be banned from the World Cup and Euros".

There has been a major outcry over the Super League proposal, which was announced on Sunday and includes 12 teams with a further three expected to be added.

Ceferin was left fuming at the plan, which is set to directly threaten the Champions League.

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Hakim Ziyech - Chelsea
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AFRICAN ALL STARS

CHELSEA V MANCHESTER CITY

MANCHESTER CITY

HAKIM ZIYECH

CHELSEA

FA CUP
The Morocco international hopes to get an opportunity to feature for the Citizens and help them reach the final of the competition

Hakim Ziyech has revealed Chelsea will do all it takes to secure victory over Manchester City in their FA Cup semi-final game on Saturday.

The winger has featured four times in the competition since joining the Blues from Dutch side Ajax last summer, scoring one goal and providing one assist.

After the victory over Crystal Palace and also advancing into the semi-finals of the Champions League at the expense of FC Porto, Ziyech hopes his side can continue their fine form by defeating the Citizens in the FA Cup last four.

“For us, it’s a nice week so far. I think we can finish the whole week with a good result again on the weekend and, hopefully, then we can say it’s a complete week,” Ziyech told the club website.

“I like to play the big games – I think that’s the same for every other footballer – but I just see them as another game. It’s a semi-final right now, we will do everything that is in our power to reach the final and how we do it doesn’t matter.

“They are leading the league and they are really impressive this season, the way they play. You can see they have individual players who can do crazy things. As a team, they can do a lot of things and it’s just the way of how they play football.

“I played them in January here and I think in the first half the game was already over. What I can remember is when they speed up the tempo, they are a difficult team to beat.

Ziyech’s debut season with the Blues has been hampered by injury setbacks which have limited him to 12 league starts in the current campaign.