Category: Entertainment

Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has revealed which international star he would most want to bring into his squad. Speaking ahead of Spain’s second World Cup group match against Saudi Arabia in Atlanta this Sunday, De la Fuente was asked to select one player from another national team that he would hypothetically add to La Roja.

Surprisingly, the Euro 2024-winning coach chose Argentina’s Julian Alvarez over more globally recognized names like Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and France’s Kylian Mbappe. De la Fuente explained that the Atletico Madrid forward’s attributes align perfectly with his tactical philosophy.

According to a report from @AlbicelesteTalk on X, De la Fuente stated: “Which player would I sign from another national team? Julián Álvarez. He’s a fantastic player.” He elaborated further: “For my idea, he’d fit perfectly; he’d be very important. Mbappe and Vinicius are great players, but in my footballing idea, he would fit perfectly.”

The coach’s preference highlights how he values specific tactical suitability over mere star power. Alvarez, known for his versatility and work rate, seems to embody the style De la Fuente wants to implement as Spain aims for World Cup glory.

In a recent interview with talkSPORTS, former Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has openly declared his admiration for Lionel Messi, labeling the Argentine superstar as the most outstanding forward in this year’s World Cup. Walker, who played alongside some of the world’s best strikers during his tenure at Manchester City, did not hesitate to single out Messi over other elite talents such as England’s Harry Kane, France’s Kylian Mbappe, and Norway’s Erling Haaland.

Walker pointed out that Messi is frequently underestimated by critics who question his age or recent form. “People seem to write him off all the time, or say he’s getting a little bit too old,” Walker said. “But what he does with a football is scary; it shouldn’t really happen.” The English international emphasized that Messi’s skill set remains unmatched, despite the emergence of younger forwards.

Discussing the possibility of this being Messi’s final World Cup, Walker expressed hope that the Inter Miami captain could lift the trophy again. “If they retain the World Cup, what a dream that will be for him to go with,” Walker added, acknowledging the historic significance such an achievement would hold for Messi’s legacy.

Walker’s comments come as the World Cup progresses, with Messi leading Argentina’s campaign. The defender’s praise highlights the respect Messi commands among his peers, even as skeptics continue to debate his place among football’s elite.

Former Arsenal forward Ian Wright has tipped the United States to exceed expectations at the 2026 World Cup, suggesting they could advance to the final four. Speaking to FourFourTwo, the ex-England international highlighted the team’s defensive strength, midfield quality, and attacking prowess as key reasons for his bold forecast.

Wright specifically pointed out the solid backline, competent midfielders, and the goal-scoring ability of striker Folarin Balogun. The US have already made a strong impression in Group D, defeating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 to secure a spot in the round of 32. Their final group match against already-eliminated Turkey is seen as a formality before the knockout stages.

“I believe the USA can reach the semi-finals,” Wright stated. “Their defense looks reliable, their midfield operates at a high standard, and with Balogun up front, they have a genuine goalscorer.” The co-hosts are under the guidance of manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has instilled a disciplined yet dynamic style of play.

The football world is buzzing with the news that Brazilian icon Ronaldinho is coming out of retirement at age 46. The former Barcelona and AC Milan star has inked a deal with Ravenna FC, a Serie C side in Italy. This marks his return to professional football after his last stint with Fluminense back in 2015.

Ronaldinho will be officially unveiled by the club during a special event in Miami on June 23. As part of the agreement, he also becomes a shareholder in Ravenna. The club is owned by businessman Ignazio Cipriani, who took over in 2024, and boasts former AC Milan executive Ariedo Braida as its vice-president.

In his first statement since the signing, Ronaldinho expressed his excitement: “New colors, same smile. I can’t wait to dance with the ball and create a beautiful new story with Ignazio Cipriani and the Cipriani family. Football has always been a joy for me, and I look forward to bringing that spirit to Ravenna. Let the magic begin!”

This unexpected move has captured the attention of fans worldwide, as one of the game’s most beloved entertainers prepares to grace the pitch once again.

Inter Miami has secured the services of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro on a free transfer, marking a significant addition to their squad. The former Manchester United player left Old Trafford after his contract concluded this summer.

Casemiro, currently representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, is set to embark on a new chapter in Major League Soccer. Renowned football transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement, stating that all parties have reached a verbal understanding and are now finalizing the paperwork before an official announcement.

According to Romano, the 32-year-old is eager to play alongside Lionel Messi in Miami, highlighting the allure of the MLS project. This move brings one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation to the American league, adding immense experience and quality to Inter Miami’s roster.

In a candid assessment on Sky Sports, former England striker Jay Bothroyd has delivered a stark message to Cristiano Ronaldo: despite his illustrious career, the Portugal star will never reach the level of Lionel Messi. Bothroyd urged Ronaldo to consider stepping down from the Portugal starting eleven for the 2026 World Cup, arguing that the Al-Nassr forward cannot match the impact of his eternal rival.

Bothroyd emphasized that Ronaldo, at 41, should embrace a role as an impact substitute rather than holding a place in the starting lineup. He remarked, “I honestly think if Ronaldo’s a team player, he needs to accept being a player who comes off the bench. Will he ever do that? No, I don’t think so. That’s my point. It looks like it’s all about him, and he’s always chasing Messi. He’s never going to be Lionel Messi, but he has made the absolute most of his career.”

The comments have sparked debate, as Bothroyd acknowledged that Ronaldo’s loyal fans may disagree. However, he insisted that Ronaldo’s pursuit of Messi is futile, as the Argentine remains the benchmark for greatness. Bothroyd concluded by praising Ronaldo’s achievements but made it clear that the Portuguese star cannot replicate Messi’s magic on the world stage.

Former Kwara United captain Kabiru Muhammad is closing in on a switch to Ranchers Bees ahead of the upcoming 2026-27 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The experienced defender has ended his three-and-a-half-year association with the Ilorin-based club, where he served as skipper and became a key figure in their backline.

Ranchers Bees, based in Kaduna, are actively bolstering their squad for the new campaign, and they view Muhammad as a vital addition to strengthen their defensive unit. The team expects his leadership qualities and deep knowledge of the NPFL to bring stability and experience to their rear guard.

Negotiations between Muhammad’s representatives and the Bees are reportedly progressing well, with both sides edging closer to finalizing contractual terms. The move would mark a significant step for Muhammad as he looks to continue his top-flight career with a new challenge at Ranchers Bees.

Real Madrid has officially stated that there is no agreement regarding personal terms with Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise. The Spanish club released a statement on Saturday addressing recent rumors linking them with the French international during the summer transfer window.

The speculation suggested that both parties had reached a deal for Olise to move to the Santiago Bernabéu. However, Los Blancos have firmly denied these claims, emphasizing the strong institutional relationship they maintain with the German club.

In their statement, Real Madrid clarified that they have not had any direct or indirect contact with Olise, his representatives, or anyone associated with him. They also highlighted the long-standing mutual respect between the two clubs, stating, ‘Both clubs have always maintained a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.’

During a recent episode of the “How To Win The World Cup” podcast on talkSPORT, former French international Emmanuel Petit shared his perspective on the fundamental contrast between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the context of the ongoing World Cup tournament. Petit emphasized that the Argentine squad plays with the intention of supporting Messi, whereas the Portuguese national team does not demonstrate the same level of collective backing for Ronaldo.

Petit stated, “For Argentina, the players are united behind Messi. However, I believe that the Portuguese players don’t play for Cristiano Ronaldo. That is the key distinction between the two teams, and it falls on manager Roberto Martinez to handle this dynamic effectively.” The 1998 World Cup winner further noted that this difference has been evident in the tournament, with Messi already scoring three goals while Ronaldo has yet to find the net. Petit’s comments highlight the varying levels of team cohesion and leadership styles between the two star players.

Nigerian music star Mr Real has responded forcefully after fellow artist Idowest asserted that he was the original creator of the hit track ‘Legbegbe’. The song, which dropped in 2018 and helped propel the Shaku Shaku dance craze, was officially credited to Mr Real featuring Idowest. But Idowest claimed during a recent live chat with streamer Carter Efe that he wrote the entire song and only brought Mr Real on board as a favor.

In his rebuttal, Mr Real pointed out that Idowest’s version of events is false and that he himself is the rightful owner of the track. He also took issue with Idowest’s taunt about a physical fight, stating that as the older artist, he would not back down from such a challenge. Mr Real stated: ‘Idowest, I caught wind of your remarks on Carter Efe’s stream. You boasted that you’d defeat me in a bout. I am your senior brother, and I will teach you a lesson.’

Mr Real further remarked that instead of focusing on his music career, Idowest chose to disparage him and lay false claim to ‘Legbegbe’. He also referenced Idowest’s reported deportation from the United States, suggesting that Idowest should address his own issues rather than stirring up conflict over a song that he did not create alone.