The Brazil great and Ballon d’Or winner signed for Ravenna in June, also taking a stake in the club, but because he had not played since his final appearance for Fluminense in 2015, doubts remained over whether fans would ever see him in action.

Ravenna revealed three weeks ago that the former Barcelona and AC Milan player would make his return in Sunday’s home clash with local rivals Forli, and on Friday, manager Andrea Mandorlini told reporters that Ronaldinho would start the match.

“He will play from the start, there’s no doubt,” Mandorlini said.

“Then together we will decide how long he plays. He is one of the greatest players of the modern era. And we have to get a result. We always play with three forwards. He will be one of the three.”

Ronaldinho was welcomed by the Ravenna fans in August, without committing to a return to the pitch. He returned to Italy on Friday afternoon and will have just one training session with his teammates on Saturday before making his club debut.

A temporary stand has been erected at the Stadio Bruno Benelli to cater for the crowd, and if this does turn out to be one last hurrah for Ronaldinho, he may well get the chance to score his 300th professional goal.

“I scored my first Italian goal in the derby,” Ronaldinho told Corriere della Sera, referring to his first official goal for AC Milan, which came against Inter Milan.

“It was a special evening that will remain in the memory of all AC Milan fans. It was September 28, 2008. I scored with a header, which is not my speciality. Who knows if I’ll be able to repeat that feat tomorrow.”

“… Returning to the pitch at 46 is the best move of my career.”

Simone Rabbi will play alongside the Brazilian up front for Ravenna, and in Friday’s press conference he said that if his side are awarded a penalty on Sunday, Ronaldinho will take the spot kick.

A second-half own goal by Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi followed by a fluky effort from Uruguay midfielder Maxi Araujo sealed defeat for the 2026 World Cup runners-up.

Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alavarez gave Argentina hope of a comeback with a 73rd-minute strike but Uruguay held on to clinch a third victory for new manager Diego Forlan.

Messi played his final game for Argentina in an emotional farewell friendly victory over Benin last month, calling time on a glittering career that spanned 207 caps and 125 goals.

With the 39-year-old genius missing, Argentina struggled to break down a resilient Uruguay team for long stretches of Friday’s friendly.

Nico Paz had Argentina’s best chance of the first half, but saw his shot well-saved by Uruguay goalkeeper Cristopher Fiermarin.

Manchester United sack manager Carrick with club in relegation zone

Uruguay made the breakthrough soon after half-time when a Giorgian de Arrascaeta free-kick from the left caused chaos in the Argentina defence.

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez attempted to clear with a header but his effort instead cannoned off team-mate Balerdi and into the net.

De Arrascaeta then set up Uruguay’s second in the 53rd minute, his corner appearing to hit Araujo’s shoulder before looping high into the net.

Alvarez pulled a goal back midway through the half, and had another good chance in stoppage time but Uruguay closed out the win.

United have won only three of their 15 matches in all competitions under Carrick this season – including one league victory – leaving them 18th in the table on eight points after 10 games, one point from the bottom.

“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions,” United said in a statement on their website.

Carrick came under mounting pressure after a 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth and the former United midfielder carried the air of someone awaiting the inevitable after the defeat when fans chanted his name but booed the players off the pitch.

He had dropped captain Bruno Fernandes to the bench against Bournemouth and did not bring him on even when United were desperate for inspiration in midfield, but the struggling club gave Carrick another chance to revive their season.

Ten Hag says relegation a real possibility for Man Utd

Although he restored the playmaker to the starting lineup against Chelsea following clear-the-air talks and spoke of the team’s determination to put things right, little changed as they were comprehensively outplayed in a 2-0 loss at Stamford Bridge.

A 3-2 comeback win over AS Roma in the Champions League briefly eased the pressure on Carrick, but United’s familiar defensive frailties were exposed again in the 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, despite two injury-time goals salvaging a point.

Carrick’s tenure

Carrick was appointed on an interim basis following Ruben Amorim’s sacking in January before being handed a contract until 2028 after overseeing a turnaround in the side’s fortunes.

United won 11 of their first 16 matches under Carrick, including victories over Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, to climb to third in the Premier League and secure qualification for the Champions League.

The 45-year-old proved unable to carry that momentum into the new season, however, with United notching wins only against promoted Ipswich Town and Champions League debutants Sabah FK before embarking on a nine-match winless run.

Manchester United expects higher fiscal 2027 revenue on Champions League boost

The club praised Carrick for his professional conduct during his managerial tenure, and said they were working towards appointing a permanent successor as soon as possible.

He ultimately became another managerial casualty at Old Trafford after the reigns of David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Erik ten Hag and Amorim.

What next for united?

Carrick is likely to be replaced by Mauricio Pochettino, the US men’s national team coach, who has agreed to take over the newly vacant post, according to reports in British media.

The former Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager is one of the Premier League’s most highly regarded former coaches.

United have not won the English league title since lifting the trophy for the 20th time in 2013 when Alex Ferguson left the club following a trophy-laden 27-year stint as manager.

A daunting trip to Anfield to face rivals Liverpool awaits United after the international break.

Pochettino is expected to remain in charge of the US for their upcoming CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final matches, which would leave the Argentine little time to prepare for his first game in one of English football’s most demanding jobs.

(Reporting by Rohith Nair and Suramya Kaushik in Bengaluru; Additional Reporting by Karan Prashant Saxena; editing by Ed Osmond, Toby Chopra and Ken Ferris)

The 2031 bid is a ​joint submission from the United States, Mexico, ⁠Costa Rica and Jamaica, which proposed ​20 stadiums in 20 host cities, receiving ​an overall score of 4.4 out of 5.

The 2035 joint bid from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and ​Wales proposed 19 stadiums in 15 host ​cities and received an overall score of 4.3 out ‌of ⁠5.

The 2031 edition will have 48 teams taking part for the first time, with the 2035 edition also maintaining the ​same format ​with 12 ⁠groups of four teams each, followed by a knockout round ​that begins with the last 32.

The ⁠Extraordinary FIFA Congress will convene on November 23.

The next edition of the Women’s World ⁠Cup ​will be held next ​year in Brazil from June 24 to July 25.

Tuchel, who replaced ‌Gareth Southgate in 2025, was initially contracted for 18 months until this year’s World Cup in North America, but signed an extension in February ​keeping him in charge of England until Euro 2028 ​on home soil.

“No release clause. And there’s no intention. ⁠I signed the contract - I want to stay until the ​Euros. I want to do the Euros. We have unfinished business,” ​Tuchel told reporters on Wednesday.

The German’s comments come amid reports that US national team coach Mauricio Pochettino is to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United. ​Carrick’s future is in doubt due to a poor run ​of form that has left the club in the relegation zone.

Tuchel did say, ‌however, ⁠that he would definitely return to club football after seeing out his England contract.

“I miss the 50 matches (a season), like I said. I miss these two minutes when everything is done,” ​the former Paris ​St Germain, Chelsea ⁠and Bayern Munich coach said.

“You go out the two minutes before the whistle goes, it’s like ​the best two minutes, everything is done and ​you’re in ⁠a full stadium, lights are on and you’re just so excited and you’re part of it.”

England host Croatia at Wembley later on ⁠Thursday ​before travelling to Madrid to face ​world champions Spain on Sunday. England are second in Nations League Group A3 with ​nine points, three behind leaders Spain.

When Kane leads England out at Wembley to earn his 126th cap, he will surpass the previous record held by former goalkeeper Peter Shilton since 1990.

It will be the latest landmark moment in a incredible 12 months for the Bayern Munich striker, who became the first English player in 25 years to win the Ballon d’Or in October.

Kane’s pride at securing that prestigious award was palpable during his emotional acceptance speech at the glitzy London ceremony.

Taking sole possession of the England cap record will serve as an exclamation point on Kane’s year to remember, underlining the 33-year-old’s remarkable durability and consistency.

He is England’s record scorer with 91 goals and also holds Tottenham’s all-time mark with 280.

Since leaving his boyhood club to join Bayern in 2023, Kane has taken his game to another level.

He has amassed 156 goals for the German club, finally winning the first silverware of his career with Bundesliga titles in 2025 and 2026.

Kane has also developed as a leader, a quality he reportedly showed by making clear his frustration at England boss Thomas Tuchel’s defensive tactics during the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina in July.

Tuchel packed England’s defence in a bid to hold onto a 1-0 lead but Argentina took advantage to score twice in the closing stages, denying Kane his first World Cup final appearance.

In clear-the-air talks prior to the international break in September, Kane is said to have led the squad in a spirited discussion with Tuchel over his tactics.

‘Ultimate professional’

As an England team-mate of Kane’s and an adversary in the Bundesliga, Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah has a special appreciation for the striker.

Kane is the first Bundesliga player to secure the Ballon d’Or since Matthias Sammer in 1996.

“The whole Bundesliga, to be honest, are super happy because they’ve not had a winner for so long. They’ve obviously taken to him so well, and everyone knows his quality,” Quansah told the BBC this week.

“He’s a scary player to play against. No-one wants to play against him. He’s almost certain to get a goal every week, and everyone knows his quality.

“I think he’s had a few nice receptions from different crowds as well, which is always nice.”

From the moment he scored within 79 seconds of making his England debut as a substitute against Lithuania in 2015, Kane has been to the manor born on the international stage.

Kane would dearly love to become the first male England captain to lift an international trophy since Bobby Moore cradled the 1966 World Cup.

He has already experienced the heartache of losses in the European Championship final in 2021 and 2024.

But, regardless of the quest for silverware, Quansah sees the way Kane carries himself around the camp and has no doubt about his status as an England legend.

“He’s an ultimate professional and he’s done everything. It’s the standards he sets off the pitch,” he said.

“He will always be the first outside for meetings. He’s always waiting for the squad to get together. He’ll never let the squad do anything by themselves.

“Him as a whole, he’s just a true great captain.”

Mbappe has returned to the France squad after missing their last three matches through injury, having failed to win the Ballon d’Or award and attracting criticism in China over his comments relating to Mao Zedong, modern China’s founding leader.

“He’s in a very good frame of mind; you can see that from his recent matches,” Konate told reporters. “He’s been decisive. He’s absolutely vital for us in Madrid.”

The 27-year-old Real Madrid forward finished second to England captain Harry Kane in the Ballon d’Or voting.

Mbappe apologises for ‘ill-judged’ Mao meme comments

He also had to apologise for remarks made during an interview in which he referred to an online meme depicting his face on an image of Mao.

The episode sparked backlash in China, prompting several brands to end commercial partnerships with Mbappe, while Spanish league matches were dropped from state broadcaster CCTV’s schedule.

Konate, also Mbappe’s club teammate at Real Madrid, said the World Cup winner had responded in typical fashion.

“He’s a competitor, so of course not winning the Ballon d’Or when he thought he had a chance is difficult,” Konate said. “But the next day he was fully focused in training.”

Messi ​scored a league-high 26 goals across ⁠31 matches, while FC ​Dallas forward Petar Musa followed with ​22 goals and Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge recorded 21.

He had 29 goals ​the previous season, becoming the ​second in league history to score at ‌least ⁠25 times in back-to-back years.

The 39-year-old Argentine retired from international football earlier this year after ​21 ​years but ⁠signed a contract extension with the MLS club ​through 2028 in October.

Argentina name first squad of post-Messi era for November friendlies

The ​MLS ⁠Cup Playoffs begin on November 19. Inter Miami finished the ⁠regular ​season second in ​the Eastern Conference.

Neymar’s father has played a key role in his son’s career and founded the agency NR Sports, which holds the rights to the Santos player’s name and image.

According to reports in Brazilian media, Neymar Sr.’s contract runs until December and he will stay on in the role if Santos president Marcelo Teixeira is re-elected next month.

Santos are ninth in the Brazilian Serie A standings with 47 points from 34 matches.

“We have been working daily to find solutions and alternatives to improve Santos’s situation and strengthen our management,” Teixeira said in a statement.

“The arrival of Neymar Sr. as the new CEO represents one more step in this process. I am confident that, with his experience and knowledge, we will be able to move forward even further and, together, build an ever-stronger club.”

Former Barcelona and Paris St Germain player Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances, returned to his childhood club Santos in 2025.

He was part of the Brazil squad at this year’s World Cup in North America, but in late July said he no longer wanted to play for the national team, weeks after suggesting his international career had ended following their last-16 defeat by Norway.

The 41-year-old announced his decision on social media on Thursday, ending a Portugal career spanning 234 appearances and 146 goals. Portuguese FA president Pedro Proenca promised to celebrate Ronaldo’s contribution, although there was no word on whether the forward would agree to a farewell appearance.

“No tribute will ever be enough to thank him for everything he has done for Portuguese football, for Portugal,” Proenca said before the squad announcement.

“We will do everything we can to honour the legacy he leaves us. Everything he has done deserves to be honoured and celebrated.”

Jesus selected seven new faces, including five players from the Under-21s, for November’s Nations League matches against Wales and Denmark, but Ronaldo’s absence dominated proceedings.

The forward left Portugal’s camp without permission at the end of September, ahead of a Nations League match against Denmark, and did not return. He later cited broken promises from Jesus as the reason for his departure.

Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from Portugal national team

Jesus became visibly annoyed as journalists pressed him about the dispute, repeatedly saying he wanted to discuss his selections rather than Ronaldo.

“All my decisions were made with the team in mind. As a manager, I have always defended what was best for the team. I am at peace with my decision,” Jesus said, insisting there were no hard feelings.

He said Ronaldo remained in his plans until Thursday’s announcement.

“I found out when we all did,” Jesus said. “Until then, I knew nothing about it. He was playing, he was scoring goals; he was one of the players on my squad list.”

Jesus said he had not subsequently contacted Ronaldo.

Proenca, meanwhile, said he, Jesus and everyone at the federation respected Ronaldo’s decision, praising his leadership and influence on generations of Portuguese players.

“The best way to honour and celebrate him is to honour his boundless ambition. To always play to win. To never be afraid of being the best in the world,” he said.

“Thank you for everything, captain. This is and always will be your home.”

The 41-year-old said he would ‘hand back the number 7 shirt’ after the November international break.

Ronaldo captained the team to their first major trophy at Euro 2016 and helped them win the 2019 and 2025 Nations Leagues.

Cristiano Ronaldo marries long-term partner Georgina Rodriguez

“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” said Ronaldo.

“If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it.”

Ronaldo thanked his family, the Portuguese people and the teammates, coaches and staff he worked with over his 23-year career with national team.

“Portugal will always be a part of me,” he captioned the announcement video.

Ronaldo has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals. He holds the all-time record for international appearances and for international goals.

The England captain joined ​Bayern from Tottenham Hotspur in 2023 and has since helped the German ‌side win two Bundesliga titles, the German Cup and two German Super Cups.

The 33-year-old striker has scored 156 goals in 161 appearances in all competitions for Bayern and capped his prolific spell in Munich by winning the ​Ballon d’Or last week.

He was the first Englishman to win the prestigious award ​since Michael Owen in 2001.

“I feel right at home at FC Bayern,” Kane ⁠said in a statement.

“I love the club, the fans and the city of Munich. ​We have a fantastic team and, in Vincent Kompany, a fantastic manager.

“It makes me very proud ​to be part of this club. My whole family is very happy here. I was keen to stay. I’m now looking forward to the future and I want to win many more titles with this great ​club.”

Kane has frequently been linked with a move back to England, where he remains 47 ​goals shy of Alan Shearer’s Premier League record of 260 goals.

However, the striker said in August that the ‌Premier League ⁠no longer holds the same appeal for him as he is focused on his career in Germany.

“Since joining us in 2023, he has achieved extraordinary things with his goals, his influence on the game and as a role model both on and off the pitch,” Bayern ​CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen said.

“His ​contract extension is a ⁠commitment to FC Bayern and to a story that is far from over.”

Bayern did not disclose financial details of the agreement. However, German ​media reported that the extension is the most lucrative contract in ​the club’s history ⁠and part of a long-term commitment to the England captain.

Kane has finished as the Bundesliga’s top scorer in each of his seasons with Bayern and was named Germany’s Footballer of the Year ⁠in ​2026.

He has also won the European Golden Shoe twice, awarded ​to Europe’s leading league goalscorer, and captained England to a third-place finish at this year’s World Cup.

The Italian side matched the eight-goal winning margins achieved by Liverpool and ‌Real Madrid in 8-0 home victories over Besiktas and Malmo respectively.

Como also became the first team since 1971 to score nine goals away from home in the European Cup and only the second after ​Bayern Munich to score nine in a Champions League match.

Their third victory in ​four matches lifted them to fourth in the standings on nine points ⁠and continued a remarkable debut campaign in which they have scored 19 goals.

“It’s an ​incredible night,” Como captain Lucas Da Cunha said.

“We started with a lot of desire, we ​wanted to take the three points, like we always do, and this evening we were able to do that.

Holders Spain drawn with Norway, Ireland and Switzerland in Women’s Nations League

“It’s a crazy night and a crazy result, but we can’t get ahead of ourselves.”

They led 3-0 ​at halftime, with Anastasios Douvikas scoring twice, before striking another five goals in a ​22-minute spell after the break.

Douvikas completed his hat-trick during that surge, while Ruben Aguilar pulled one back ‌for Lens ⁠before Matteo Papaccioli rounded off the rout in stoppage time.

Como’s first Champions League campaign is already a resounding success, featuring dazzling 4–1 victories over both RB Leipzig and Manchester United.

Their tally of 19 goals equals Queens Park Rangers’ 1976 record for the most scored by a club ​in its first ​four matches in major ⁠European competition.

Cesc Fabregas’ side will next face AEK Athens and Real Betis before ending the league phase with more daunting tests against ​Paris St Germain and Barcelona.

‘Humiliation’

Lens, 33rd in the standings with three ​points, suffered ⁠the heaviest Champions League defeat by a French club.

They also became the first team from Europe’s top five leagues to concede nine goals at home in European competition.

“The only word that ⁠comes to ​mind is a feeling of humiliation,” Lens coach Yannick ​Cahuzac told Canal+.

“We were dominated in every aspect of the game. It’s hard to explain.

“To concede a score like ​that, it goes beyond the game plan.”

The 46-year-old former England midfielder, who made 129 appearances for West Ham between 2007 and 2011, arrives with a proven track record of promotion, having guided Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley from the second tier to the top flight in 2020, 2022 and 2025 respectively.

Parker replaces Nuno Espirito Santo after the club parted ways with the Portuguese coach following back-to-back defeats that left West Ham eighth in the standings.

Nuno joined a struggling West Ham in September 2025 but was unable to reverse the club’s fortunes, overseeing their relegation from the Premier League for the first time since 2011.

“It is a very proud moment for me to step into this role and return to a club that means so much to me and my family. A lot of very fond memories of my time here - four years of probably the best football I played in my career…,” Parker said in a statement.

“More than anything, this is an opportunity that I am very excited about. I feel privileged and honoured to be the guy that wants to lead us back to the Premier League and be the head coach of this football club at this moment in time.”

Parker most recently managed Burnley, leaving by mutual consent in April, days after the club’s relegation back to the Championship.

Spain, who beat Germany in last December’s final to retain the title, are the competition’s only ​winners after lifting the trophy in both ​editions of the biennial tournament for UEFA’s senior ⁠women’s national teams.

The world champions, who defeated ​England to win the 2023 Women’s World Cup, ​will launch their latest title defence when the third edition of the Nations League begins in February 2027.

Sarina Wiegman’s ​England, winners of the 2022 and 2025 Women’s ​European Championships, were drawn in Group A2 alongside France, Austria ‌and ⁠Portugal, while runners-up Germany were placed in Group A4 with the Netherlands, Sweden and Scotland.

Man City’s Foden confident of return to top form after tough spell

Teams are split into three leagues based on the final ​overall rankings ​from the ⁠2026 Women’s European Qualifiers. Leagues A and B each comprise 16 teams, ​while League C features 22 sides.

The ​four League ⁠A group winners will advance to the knockout finals.

The Nations League also serves as a qualifying ⁠route ​to the 2028 Olympic Games ​in Los Angeles and UEFA Women’s Euro 2029 in Germany.

Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino, 21, earned ​his first senior call-up, while ​River Plate’s Gonzalo Montiel and Parma ⁠defender Mariano Troilo return to the ​squad as Scaloni begins shaping the team ​without its long-time captain.

The squad also includes several key players, including Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo ​Fernandez and Julian Alvarez.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez ​was included despite suffering a fractured jaw while playing ‌for ⁠Chelsea, although his fitness will need to be assessed before the matches.

Tenerife striker De Miguel dies after collision in match

There was no place for Rodrigo De Paul ​or Giovani ​Lo ⁠Celso, while striker Lautaro Martinez and defender Cristian Romero are ​among the notable absentees through ​injury.

Argentina ⁠will host Uruguay on November 13 at La Bombonera before facing Costa Rica ⁠on ​November 17 at the ​Mario Alberto Kempes stadium in Cordoba.

Foden, who won the Premier League Player of the Season and Professional Footballers’ Association Player ​of the Year awards in 2024 after scoring a ​career-best 27 goals in all competitions, endured a dip in ⁠form that ultimately cost him a place in England’s 2026 ​World Cup squad.

“Hopefully I can get back to that level,” Foden ​told reporters on Tuesday.

“I think I’m slightly starting to get back there now with my recent performances.”

The 26-year-old scored his first Premier League goal of the ​season against Ipswich Town last month after serving a suspension following a red card ​in the Manchester derby.

He followed it up with a hat-trick and an assist in ‌City’s ⁠5-1 Champions League win over AEK Athens.

“I had the unfortunate red card against United. But the break did me good. I think I came back really fresh-minded and sharp,” he said.

“Being involved ​in goals gives ​you a lot ⁠of confidence and when you’re playing regularly as well you kind of just get into a ​rhythm and a groove.”

Asked about his international future, Foden ​said ⁠he had not spoken to England manager Thomas Tuchel since being left out of the World Cup squad and was concentrating on performing ⁠for ​City.

“All I try and do really is ​focus on my own game and hopefully one day the call-up might come back,” ​he said.

Bayern broke down a stubborn Atletico side in Madrid ​as second-half goals from Lennart Karl and Konrad Laimer secured victory, while PSG set a record as the fastest team to score four ‌goals in a Champions League match on their way to a 6-0 victory.

At Old Trafford, Matheus Cunha struck twice in quick succession after the break as United overturned a two-goal deficit to beat Roma 3-2, the comeback following protests by home supporters.

Barcelona eased to a 3-0 home win over Aston Villa after Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the seventh ​minute and Raphinha added a second-half double, while Inter Milan were equally convincing, beating Feyenoord 3-0 at De Kuip.

PSG remain top of the ​standings with 12 points, followed by a group of six teams on nine points including Barcelona and Villa.

Stadiums across Europe ⁠fell silent before kickoff in memory of Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel, who died earlier on Tuesday.

At the Metropolitano, Bayern enjoyed the majority of possession but struggled ​initially to break down a disciplined Atletico side, who finished the first half without a shot on target.

That was not a true reflection, however, of the ​threat the hosts carried on the counter-attack.

Bayern’s first clear chance did not come until the 22nd minute when Karl shot wide, before an unmarked Harry Kane volleyed off target from close range four minutes later.

A series of well-timed defensive interventions prevented Bayern from building momentum, leaving Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak largely untroubled before the break.

Karl made the breakthrough after halftime, ​dispossessing Robin Le Normand inside the Atletico penalty area before finishing neatly.

Atletico pushed Bayern back after falling behind but created few clear chances and their determination ​to play out from defence again proved costly in the 74th minute.

Bayern regained possession before Kane’s precise pass released Laimer, who produced an equally assured finish to put the ‌result beyond ⁠doubt.

Manchester united comeback

Roma seized control against Manchester United when Matias Soule opened the scoring in the 11th minute, before Donyell Malen doubled their advantage from the penalty spot seven minutes later.

The early goals intensified the discontent among the home supporters, who had released hundreds of green and gold balloons as the teams emerged, a reference to United’s original colours, before throwing dozens of yellow tennis balls onto the pitch in the first half.

United began their fightback in the 58th minute ​when captain Bruno Fernandes scored a ​retaken penalty.

Cunha then transformed the contest, ⁠equalising seven minutes from time before scoring again three minutes later to complete the turnaround and spark jubilant celebrations at Old Trafford.

His eventful night ended prematurely, however. Booked for removing his shirt and jumping into the stands after his ​winner, the Brazilian was sent off for a late challenge in stoppage time, completing a chaotic eight-minute spell.

At the ​Camp Nou, Barcelona’s Lamine ⁠pounced on a loose Aston Villa pass to open the scoring after seven minutes, although Unai Emery’s side created the clearer openings before the break despite pressure from the hosts.

Raphinha made the closing stages comfortable for Barcelona with a deflected strike before adding his second from an exquisite Joao Cancelo assist.

Inter Milan delivered a clinical ⁠away performance ​to defeat Feyenoord. Yann Bisseck scored early with a long-range curler, before Pio Esposito headed home ​a second before halftime and Piotr Zielinski sealed the victory.

LASK claimed only their second ever Champions League win in a 4-0 triumph over Slovan Bratislava, while hosts Bodo/Glimt drew 0-0 with Lille.

Earlier, ​Aleksey Batrakov scored twice as Galatasaray beat Stuttgart 2-0, while Sporting defeated Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 at Stamford Bridge.

The Segunda Division game against Andorra was abandoned seven minutes into stoppage time after De Miguel collapsed after a clash with away goalkeeper Jesus Owono, who had rushed out of his area to clear a long ball and struck the forward in the chest with his knee.

“Racked with pain, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe that this is true, from CD Tenerife we communicate the tragic passing of Jesus de Miguel Alameda,” the club said.

“There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this feeling overflowing with sadness.”

De Miguel lay motionless as players from both teams signalled for medical assistance. Owono was shown a straight red card.

Medical staff treated de Miguel on the pitch for more than five minutes before he was taken to hospital by ambulance.

“I’m sorry with all my heart. Rest in peace Jesus,” Andorra President Gerard Pique wrote on social media.

Fixtures cancelled

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) postponed all matches scheduled for Tuesday, including fixtures in the Copa del Rey and Copa de la Reina.

The governing body also called off the official presentation for Spain’s Under-21 international against Japan as a mark of respect and solidarity towards De Miguel’s family, teammates and Tenerife supporters.

UEFA announced that a period of silence would be observed before all European games this week. Spanish sides Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Villarreal are in Champions League action on Tuesday.

“We are heartbroken by the death of Jesus de Miguel Alameda,” UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said. “We have searched for words and found only silence.”

Football clubs across Spain paid tributes to De Miguel.

“Our thoughts and support are with his family, friends and loved ones during these difficult times,” Barcelona said in a statement.

“Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences and affection to his family, his teammates, his club, and all his loved ones,” the club said.

De Miguel was born in Madrid in 1996 and joined Tenerife from Castellon ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, scoring 11 goals last season.

The continental tournament has been postponed until December next year following recent attacks on the kingdom. It had been due to take place from January 7 to February 5.

A strike on Riyadh’s international airport last month killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300, with Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement claiming responsibility for the deadliest attack in Saudi Arabia in more than a decade.

AFC postpones Al Nassr-Al Wasl Champions League Elite clash in Riyadh

“The decision comes as part of a wider review of the 2026-27 RSL (Roshn Saudi League) fixture schedule, with the revised Asian Cup dates creating additional flexibility in the domestic football calendar,” the SPL said in a statement, two days before the start of the gameweek.

“New dates for matchweek 13 will be announced once the review is complete.”

The SPL has rescheduled several domestic league games this season for logistical reasons, and last month’s AFC Champions League Elite clash between hosts Al Nassr and Emirati side Al Wasl was postponed.

United are 17th with seven points from nine games, above Crystal Palace in the final relegation spot on goal difference, and are winless in their last nine matches, their longest run without a victory since 1984, according to data firm Opta.

The United board decided to stick with current manager Michael Carrick for the Chelsea game despite a 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth and a 4-1 drubbing at Como in the Champions League in the lead-up to the match.

Asked about the possibility of United being relegated for the first time in over half a century, Ten Hag told ESPN: “In the Premier League it’s certainly possible, because all the teams are simply strong.

“They’re all strong squads, all good managers. And if you end up on the wrong side once and you really get into that vicious circle – yes, then it can become very, very difficult.”

Kane misses penalty, hits post as Dortmund snatch draw

Ten Hag arrived at United in 2022 and guided them to an FA Cup and League Cup trophy during his tenure before being sacked in 2024. “Before we arrived, six years without winning a trophy,” said the Dutch manager, who was named FC Twente’s technical director ahead of the 2026-27 season.

“Look where they are now.” United next host AS Roma in the Champions League on Tuesday, before facing Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.

In a frustrating match for home fans, Bayern twice ​took the lead, missed a penalty, hit the post four times and had three ​players – Ismael Saibari, Serge Gnabry and Michael Olise – taken off injured. The Bavarians play Atletico ⁠Madrid in the Champions League next week.

Kane, who claimed his prize at a ceremony in ​London on Monday, was an unused substitute in the 6-1 German Cup second-round demolition of Magdeburg ​on Wednesday before missing from the spot with Bayern 1-0 up.

Silva snatched the equaliser in the 89th minute to leave both teams on 18 points, with Bayern top on goal difference.

“Mixed emotions. We’re really pleased ​with the performance, especially this second half,” said Bayern assistant coach Aaron Danks, who ​is in charge with head coach Vincent Kompany recovering from illness.

“So ultimately we’ll feel disappointed that we ‌haven’t got ⁠the win. We had the right moments for us, and it just didn’t go our way today.”

Danks said it was too early to determine the extent of the injuries but said Saibari’s ankle issue looked serious.

In a rollercoaster first half, Bayern hit the woodwork through Michael Olise ​and wasted a golden chance for ​Ismael Saibari, who was ⁠injured and later left the stadium on crutches, before the visitors had a goal overruled by VAR.

Bayern struck in the 38th minute thanks through Konrad ​Laimer’s goal on the rebound, after his first effort was blocked ​by Dortmund’s ⁠Gregor Kobel.

Full back Laimer was more threatening than Kane, who sent his 56th-minute spot-kick against the crossbar.

Dortmund scored through Serhou Guirassy on the hour mark but their joy only lasted six minutes as ⁠Dayot Upamecano ​tapped in a Kane assist from close range.

Kane’s low ​shot bounced off the post before Silva bagged the equaliser. Bayern’s Lennart Karl still had time to see his ​shot in stoppage time bounce off the crossbar.

Barca top LaLiga on 30 points, two ahead of Atletico Madrid, who beat Levante 2-0 earlier on Saturday, with Real Madrid six points off the pace before visiting Racing Santander on Sunday.

The opening ​exchanges at Camp Nou were punctuated by frustrated shouts from home manager Hansi Flick in response to Barcelona’s defending, but ​Alaves found it impossible to live with their fluid attacking play.

After Pedri’s pass sliced through the ⁠Alaves midfield, Fermin crossed for Raphinha to open the scoring in the eighth minute.

A brief Alaves reaction put the hosts under ​pressure but once Fermin netted from a tight angle in the 23rd minute, the game was one-way traffic in Barcelona’s favour.

Tenacious and incisive ​throughout, Fermin assisted Raphinha again in the 41st minute after winning possession back.

Lamine rifled a bouncing ball low into the corner to complete a slick passing move, adding Barcelona’s fourth in first-half stoppage time.

Flick’s side continued to look sharp and Karim Adeyemi spurned a chance to round off more excellent ​work from Fermin early in the second half. Lamine was set up by substitute Gabriel Jesus for his second in the ​64th minute.

Rodri was visibly delighted with the weight of his pass behind the Alaves defence, which Gordon converted for Barcelona’s sixth with nine minutes remaining.

MLS announces key 2027 ‘Sprint Season’ matches ahead of calendar shift

The Spain ‌midfielder ⁠was equally furious with himself after his giveaway allowed Mariano Diaz to add a consolation goal for Alaves three minutes later.

“This is what I want to see after two defeats. How we reacted, it was good and in the right way,” Flick said.

Missing verve

Barca showed the verve they were missing in the 2-1 Clasico defeat by visitors Real, after which Flick said his team lacked freshness, ​and a 4-2 loss at PSG ​in the Champions League.

Aston Villa ⁠visit the Catalan side on Tuesday in the Champions League in what is likely to be a sterner test.

Midfielders Brian Farinas and Frenkie de Jong started in defence for Barcelona due to injuries, ​and Flick did not confirm when Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen or Eric Garcia would return.

“We ​have to survive these ⁠two games (before the international break). We don’t know who is coming back,” said Flick.

Diego Simeone won his 344th match as Atletico Madrid manager in a victory over Levante, equalling Luis Aragones’ record in 192 fewer games.

Goals from Alejandro Grimaldo and Giuliano Simeone in each half were ⁠enough to ​secure a seventh straight victory in domestic competition.

Fourth-placed Real Betis are revelling ​in their best start to a LaLiga season through 11 games since 1934, following a 2-1 win over Malaga.

Rayo Vallecano moved level on 12 points with Celta Vigo ​after beating the Galician side 3-0, despite having played a game less.

The standalone match ‌at Nu Stadium in Miami will begin a truncated 14-game regular season and playoff tournament designed to bridge the gap as MLS shifts away ​from its traditional summer schedule to align with Europe’s top ​leagues.

The schedule, previewed on Apple TV’s “MLS Countdown,” emphasizes weekly ⁠rivalry matchups. Among the headline games announced, LA Galaxy will ​host Los Angeles FC on April 10 in the “El Trafico” ​derby.

The sprint season will conclude its regular-season slate on May 8 with “Decision Day,” anchored by the Hudson River Derby between New York City FC and ​the New York Red Bulls, setting the stage for the ​May playoffs.

The four-month sprint serves as the prelude to the league’s full operational ‌shift. ⁠The first standard season under the new timetable will run from mid-to-late July 2027 through May 2028, featuring a midwinter break and no matches in January.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber previously called the ​calendar change “one of ​the most ⁠important decisions in our history.”

England forward Kane crowned Ballon d’Or winner, Putellas wins women’s award

The strategic overhaul was approved following a two-year review to synchronize the ​league’s transfer activity with the global summer window, ​minimize scheduling ⁠conflicts with FIFA’s international fixtures, and hold the MLS Cup playoffs in May when the North American sports calendar is less crowded.

US men’s ⁠national ​team coach Mauricio Pochettino is among ​those who have endorsed the change, noting that calendar alignment with the global soccer ​landscape will benefit clubs, coaches, and player development.

Atletico accused Barcelona of approaching the Argentine, whose contract runs until June 2030, without first notifying ​them in writing.

The sanction falls under Article 133 ​of the federation’s regulations. Atletico also complained to ⁠FIFA, which declared it had no jurisdiction over ​the case.

For Alvarez, the repair work has been rather ​more public.

The striker scored Atletico’s winner against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, finding the net for a second successive match as his side ​moved within two points of LaLiga leaders Barcelona, ​before apologising for expressing his desire to join their rivals.

Mbappe apologises for ‘ill-judged’ Mao meme comments

“It was ‌a ⁠mistake. I understand why the fans are angry. If I were a fan, I’d be angry too. Especially given how they’ve supported me since I arrived,” Alvarez ​said referring to ​an interview ⁠during the 2026 World Cup in which he said that he “wanted to fulfil his ​dream” of playing for Barcelona, triggering a ​transfer dispute ⁠that stretched through the summer transfer window.

Frequently booed by the home fans this season, Alvarez received a standing ovation ⁠from ​sections of the crowd after scoring ​on Saturday, a sign of a thawing relationship with the Metropolitano ​faithful.

Wawrinka announced last year ​that he would retire at the end of ​the 2026 season, 24 years after he turned ⁠professional.

The 41-year-old defeated Rafa Nadal in the 2014 ​Australian Open final to win his first major, before ​claiming his other two Grand Slam crowns by beating Novak Djokovic in the finals of the 2015 French Open and 2016 ​US Open.

“For me, all I wanted in my ​career was to give everything, to have no regrets, to always ‌fight, ⁠to always give 100% in every match — out of respect for myself, for the opponent, for the tournament, for the fans, for everybody,” Wawrinka told the ​ATP website.

Rybakina finds Ningbo spark again ahead of WTA Finals title defence

“That ​was always ⁠the most important thing for more than 20 years, and that’s the only way ​you can leave the sport: without any ​regrets.”

Wawrinka ⁠won 16 ATP titles and reached a career-high world ranking of number three in 2014. He also won ⁠Olympic ​doubles gold with Roger Federer ​in 2008 and helped deliver Switzerland’s first Davis Cup title in 2014.

In a video on a French podcast that has since been taken down, Mbappe is heard discussing a funny meme where his face had been photoshopped on to that of “some guy — I think he’s a Chinese dictator”.

“During a recent interview, I reacted to an image of myself,” Real Madrid forward Mbappe said in a statement. “My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world.

“I apologise to everyone my words have upset,” added Mbappe, who has ties with firms including Swiss sportswear brand On Holding, hotel chain Accor and Lego. “This was absolutely not my intention”

In China jokes about Mao, the country’s founding leader who died in 1976, are considered disrespectful and remain a social taboo.

“Our company firmly opposes and has a zero-tolerance policy towards any behaviour that offends national sentiments,” drinks giant Dongpeng said in a statement, adding that “with immediate effect we are terminating all cooperation with Kylian Mbappe”.

Adverts showing AI-generated images of the 27-year-old France captain drinking a Dongpeng sports drink were regularly shown in China during this year’s World Cup.

Mengniu, China’s largest dairy producer, also cut ties with the Real Madrid forward, who until this incident was hugely popular among Chinese fans with millions of followers on social media.

Mbappe is fondly nicknamed “Guigui”, the Chinese translation of “Turtle”, due to his popularity as a character in a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles meme.

“With immediate effect our company is terminating all cooperation with Kylian Mbappe,” Mengniu said in a statement.

“Mengniu firmly opposes and has a zero-tolerance policy towards any words or actions that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people,” it added.

The announcements came after a video emerged online with Mbappe saying that the funniest internet meme he had seen was of his face photo-shopped onto that of “some guy – I think he’s a Chinese dictator”.

This was an apparent reference to a meme of Mbappe superimposed on an image of Mao, one of several using the footballer’s face and other historical figures.

The authenticity of the video could not immediately be verified by AFP Fact Check.

“Dongpeng Beverage ends cooperation with Mbappe” was the top-trending topic on Chinese social media site Weibo.

One Weibo user said that the “extremely serious wrong remarks… crossed the red line. They are completely unacceptable”.

Others urged Dongpeng to remove Mbappe’s image from their energy drink bottles.

Dongqiudi, one of China’s biggest online football outlets, said in a statement on Monday evening that Mbappe’s remarks were “offensive to China and the Chinese people” and “have hurt the feelings of Chinese football fans and the Chinese people”.

China furore

Mbappe in September addressed a previous meme depicting him as a military dictator, in an interview with French sports newspaper L’Equipe.

“There’s a part of it that’s funny. You can tell that, for some people, it’s all in good fun. But there is another part that’s a bit less funny because of the damage such people have caused throughout history,” he said.

“Being compared to individuals who murder others, or who have brought misery to millions upon millions of people – well, I don’t think I’ve ever done anything like that in my life,” he said.

The furore in China came a day after Mbappe lost out to Harry Kane for the Ballon d’Or, the most prestigious individual award in football.

Global sports stars that have commented on sensitive topics such as Taiwan, Tibet and Hong Kong have previously caused controversy in China and been dumped by sponsors there.

Former NBA player Dwight Howard referred to Taiwan as a country in 2023 as he appeared in a video with the island’s vice president and current president Lai Ching-te, sparking fury on Chinese social media.

Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey posted a tweet in 2019 supporting Hong Kong protests, leading to China suspending sponsorship deals with the NBA and pulling games off Chinese television for a year.

• 1956: Stanley Matthews (England)
• 1957: Alfredo ‌Di Stefano (Spain)
• 1958: Raymond Kopa (France)
• 1959: Alfredo Di Stefano (Spain)
• 1960: Luis Suarez (Spain)
• 1961: Omar Sivori (Italy)
• 1962: Josef Masopust (Czechoslovakia)
• 1963: Lev Yashin (Soviet Union)
• 1964: Denis Law (Scotland)
• 1965: ​Eusebio (Portugal)
• 1966: Bobby Charlton (England)
• 1967: Florian Albert (Hungary)
• 1968: George Best (Northern Ireland)
• 1969: ​Gianni Rivera (Italy)
• 1970 - Gerd Mueller (West Germany)
• 1971: Johan Cruyff (Netherlands)
• 1972: ⁠Franz Beckenbauer (West Germany)
• 1973: Johan Cruyff (Netherlands)
• 1974: Johan Cruyff (Netherlands)
• 1975: Oleg ​Blokhin (Soviet Union)
• 1976: Franz Beckenbauer (West Germany)
• 1977: Allan Simonsen (Denmark)
• 1978: Kevin ​Keegan (England)
• 1979: Kevin Keegan (England)
• 1980: Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (West Germany)
• 1981: Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (West Germany)
• 1982: Paolo Rossi (Italy)
• 1983: Michel Platini (France)
• 1984: Michel Platini (France)
• 1985: Michel Platini (France)
• 1986: Igor Belanov (Soviet Union)
• 1987: ​Ruud Gullit (Netherlands)
• 1988: Marco van Basten (Netherlands)
• 1989: Marco van ​Basten (Netherlands)
• 1990: Lothar Matthaus (Germany)
• 1991: Jean-Pierre Papin (France)
• 1992: Marco van Basten (Netherlands)
• 1993: Roberto Baggio (Italy)
• 1994: Hristo ⁠Stoichkov (Bulgaria)
• 1995: George Weah (Liberia)
• 1996: Matthias Sammer (Germany)
• 1997: Ronaldo (Brazil)
• 1998: Zinedine Zidane (France)
• 1999: Rivaldo (Brazil)
• 2000: Luis Figo (Portugal)
• 2001: Michael Owen (England)
• 2002: Ronaldo (Brazil)
• 2003: Pavel Nedved (Czech Republic)
• 2004: Andriy Shevchenko (Ukraine) 2005 - Ronaldinho (Brazil)
• 2006: Fabio Cannavaro (Italy)
• 2007: Kaka (Brazil)
• 2008 - Cristiano ​Ronaldo (Portugal)
• 2009: Lionel ​Messi (Argentina)
• 2010: Lionel ⁠Messi (Argentina)
• 2011: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• 2012: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• 2013: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
• 2014: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
• 2015: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• 2016: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
• 2017: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
• 2018: ⁠Luka Modric (Croatia)
• 2019: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• 2020: Award Cancelled (COVID-19 pandemic)
• 2021: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• 2022: Karim Benzema (France)
• 2023: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• 2024: Rodri (Spain)
• 2025: Ousmane Dembele (France)
• 2026: Harry ​Kane (England)
• From 2010-2015 the Ballon d’Or was ​merged with the FIFA World Player of the Year to ​create the FIFA Ballon d’Or award.

Kane is the first Englishman to win the prestigious award in 25 years, after ​Michael Owen won it in 2001.

“Wow, wow, wow!” Kane said after taking the stage. “I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it ‌extra special. Made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year.

“Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight and impressive showing determination and hard work can really achieve.”

Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d’Or Feminin for the third time.

Kane’s move to Bayern in 2023 brought the team trophies ​that had long eluded him. In 2025-26, he coupled that success with goalscoring numbers that made him the leading Ballon d’Or candidate.

The England captain produced his most prolific campaign, ​scoring 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern across all competitions as the German side completed a domestic league and cup double.

By the end ⁠of the season, Kane had established himself as Europe’s leading goalscorer.

His influence stretched far beyond club football.

He scored six goals at the World Cup and led England to the semi-finals, combining his clinical ​finishing with the leadership and composure that have defined his international career.

The award represents the culmination of a remarkable journey. Few players have experienced a career arc quite like Kane’s, ​and he thanked all of his career coaches in his emotional speech, plus Tottenham Hotspur and his wife Kate.

Once struggling to establish himself at Spurs as a youngster, being sent out on numerous loans, he developed into one of the most complete centre forwards of his generation, capable of scoring every type of goal while also functioning as a playmaker.

“It’s about the journey,” Kane said. “Anything is possible, work hard when ​nobody is watching.

“For any young boy or girl wanting to achieve their dreams, anything is possible. I wasn’t the kid who went straight to the top. I had to ​experience the downs. I had to find my way to be the very best right now.”

Consistency

The Ballon d’Or has often rewarded players whose success was built on flair and spectacle, but Kane’s triumph ‌is a ⁠tribute to consistency, intelligence and productivity on an exceptional scale.

Week after week, he delivered. Match after match, he decided contests. There were no prolonged slumps and few quiet nights.

His numbers were almost impossible to ignore.

Kane finished the campaign with 73 goals for club and country, a total rarely seen in the modern era. More importantly, those goals arrived in moments of genuine significance, helping Bayern collect trophies and driving England deep into the biggest tournament in the sport.

The competition for this year’s award was fierce. Kylian Mbappe broke World Cup scoring ​records. Lamine Yamal helped Spain to World ​Cup glory. Yet voters ultimately chose ⁠Kane, whose excellence lasted the entire season.

Mbappe finished second, followed by Lamine, Rodri and Lionel Messi.

At 33, Kane has finally claimed the game’s highest individual honour, adding a Ballon d’Or to a legacy that already places him among football’s greatest strikers as England’s all-time leading ​marksman and their record World Cup scorer.

Putellas was presented with the women’s award after winning the treble with Barcelona in the ​2025-26 campaign, in addition to ⁠the Spanish Super Cup. She moved to Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses in July after 14 years at Barca.

Spain and Barcelona players won the young talent awards, Lamine picking up his third trophy and Vicky Lopez taking home the women’s award for the second successive year.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was named men’s coach of the year, while Barcelona’s Pere ⁠Romeu won ​the women’s coaching award.

The men’s goalkeeper award went to Unai Simon of Spain and Athletic Bilbao, while Cata ​Coll of Spain and Barcelona won the women’s award.

Paris St Germain won the men’s club of the year award, while Barcelona picked up the women’s honours. Kane won the men’s striker of the year prize, while Charlyn ​Corral was named top women’s striker.

Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka was presented with the Socrates Award for humanitarian work.