At 40, Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level for both his club and national team. ..Continue Reading
He netted 35 goals for Al Nassr last season and played a key role in Portugal’s Nations League triumph during the summer.
The legendary striker remains driven to score and succeed, with his sights set on leading Portugal to next year’s World Cup.
Ahead of the qualifier against Ireland, Ronaldo was asked about retirement, revealing that his family encourages him to step away.
“People, especially my family, say: ‘It’s time for you to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?’ But I don’t think so,” he told Canal 11. “I think I’m still producing good things, I’m helping my club and the national team, and why not keep going?”
Ronaldo added: “I’m sure that when I finish, I’ll be fulfilled, because I gave it my all. I know I don’t have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest.”
On Tuesday, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was honored with the Prestige award at the Portugal Football Globes, though he doesn’t see it as an ‘end-of-career award’.
“It’s not an end-of-career award,” he explained. “I see it as recognition of years of effort, dedication, and ambition. I like winning, helping the younger generations—and they also help me maintain my level and continue competing. That’s what excites me: competing with the younger ones. I still have a passion for this.”
Ronaldo is chasing the milestone of 1,000 career goals, having already scored 946 across club and international matches.
If he reaches that number, he would be the first player in history to do so.
Following his new deal with Al Nassr this summer, Ronaldo will look to add to his 141 international goals when he returns to the pitch for Portugal.
Liverpool have finally completed the signing of Swedish striker Alexander Isak from Newcastle United in a deal worth a British-record £125 million, bringing an end to one of the summer’s most protracted transfer sagas.
The 24-year-old joins on a six-year contract and becomes the Reds’ marquee arrival of the window. For Newcastle, the final package is closer to £130 million, with Isak reportedly waiving solidarity payments to help push the transfer through.
Isak Forces the Move
Isak made no secret of his desire to leave St James’ Park, going as far as refusing to play in order to secure the switch. Liverpool initially saw a £110 million bid rejected outright, but renewed talks in the final 24 hours led to a breakthrough agreement at the record fee.
Speaking after completing his move, Isak said: “I feel amazing. It’s been a long journey to get here, but I’m proud to be part of this club and everything it stands for. I can’t wait to meet my teammates, the fans, and get to work on the pitch.”
Liverpool’s Big Summer Statement
Isak’s arrival caps a huge window for Liverpool as they reinforce their title-winning squad. Florian Wirtz arrived from Bayer Leverkusen in another major deal, while Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong bolstered the full-back positions. Young defender Giovanni Leoni and forward Hugo Ekitike also joined, with goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili finally making his pre-agreed switch.
Despite high-profile departures, including Luis Diaz, Jarell Quansah, and Darwin Núñez, Liverpool look stronger than ever in attack. Isak, their new record signing, is expected to be the long-term focal point of the frontline as Arne Slot’s side aim to dominate both domestically and in Europe.
The Gunners have shifted their focus to securing a top-class centre-forward following the confirmed arrivals of Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga. ..Continue Reading
For several seasons now, pundits, ex-players, and fans alike have urged Arsenal to bring in a prolific striker to elevate Mikel Arteta’s side to title-winning contention.
That long-awaited move appears to be materializing, with both Gyökeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško heavily linked to the North London club.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano revealed on Sunday that Gyökeres has reached a full agreement on personal terms with Arsenal, and the deal is now progressing toward completion.
Romano wrote on X: ‘Arsenal are now getting closer to signing Viktor Gyökeres after new round of talks in recent hours. Gyökeres will NOT return for training at Sporting as he’s fully focused on leaving the club; Arsenal are now advancing. Nothing done yet but discussions underway.’
The transfer expert added: ‘More on Viktor Gyökeres big news. Gyökeres has reached TOTAL agreement with Arsenal on contract terms and informed Sporting about his desire to join #AFC. No intention to discuss other options, only to proceed with Arsenal as soon as possible. Deal well underway.’
Later on Sunday, CNN Portugal went a step further by reporting that a full agreement between Arsenal and Sporting CP is now imminent, with both clubs having settled on the terms of the transfer.
According to the outlet, Gyökeres will no longer feature for Sporting, as the Swedish striker is set to join Arsenal next season in a deal worth a guaranteed €65 million, potentially rising to €80 million with performance-based bonuses.
CNN Portugal also revealed that Gyökeres is “on his way” to North London, following a breakthrough in negotiations after a high-level Arsenal delegation flew to Lisbon on Friday and successfully resolved the impasse with Sporting.
The report adds: ‘Regarding the deal, at this time, what is known is that Sporting will receive a fixed amount that should be around 65 million euros. That said, there will also be a variable amount that could be between 10 and 15 million euros.
‘Of the variable amount, there are 5 million euros that will, in theory, be easier to achieve: they depend on the number of games that the Swede will play wearing the Arsenal shirt.’
The ‘more difficult objectives’ include Gyokeres winning the Ballon d’Or or Arsenal lifting the Champions League in the Swede’s time at the London club.
Date: Wednesday night Kick-off: 20:00 Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris Occasion: UEFA Champions League Semi-Final (2nd Leg)
Football fans, buckle up—because we’re heading to the Parc des Princes for a continental heavyweight showdown that could define the season for both clubs. Paris Saint-Germain host Arsenal in what promises to be an electrifying second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final. PSG have the slenderest of leads thanks to their 1-0 win in North London, but the Gunners aren’t out of the fight yet—not by a long shot.
This isn’t just any semi-final. This is a clash of two titans desperate to shake off past UCL heartbreaks and write a new chapter. For PSG, it’s a golden chance to finally get their hands on that elusive first Champions League trophy. For Arsenal, it’s about proving to the world that their rebuild under Mikel Arteta can deliver on the biggest stage of all.
Let’s dive in, Gooners and Parisiens—this one is going to be a rollercoaster.
The Story So Far
PSG landed the first blow. Ousmane Dembele’s early strike at the Emirates gave Luis Enrique’s side a crucial away win and a one-goal cushion heading into the return leg. While the scoreline was tight, PSG were electric in the opening 20 minutes—swarming the ball, pressing like demons, and carving Arsenal open with pace and flair.
But Arsenal regrouped. They settled into the game, had their moments, and could have easily nicked an equaliser had Gianluigi Donnarumma not pulled off a world-class save or two. It wasn’t the worst result for Arteta’s men, but they now face an uphill climb in Paris.
To make matters more intriguing, both sides slipped up in their domestic leagues over the weekend. PSG were stunned 2-1 by Strasbourg, while Arsenal fell to a frustrating 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth. Still, both managers rotated heavily with this midweek blockbuster in mind—so expect their strongest lineups when the lights shine brightest.
Head-to-Head & Recent Form
Before Dembele’s heroics in the first leg, Arsenal had PSG’s number. The Gunners were unbeaten in four previous meetings, including a 2-0 win in the group stage this season. That alone should give Arsenal fans a glimmer of hope—especially considering the Londoners have shown they can frustrate PSG’s stars when organised.
That said, form favours the French champions. Despite only two wins in their last six games across competitions, PSG have made the Parc a fortress in Europe this season. Their ability to start fast and feed off the home crowd’s energy could make the difference.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are wobbling slightly. Three games without a win, and the creativity has dried up at the wrong time. But this is the Champions League—a platform for heroes. The Gunners will need every ounce of composure, resilience, and clinical edge to pull off what would be a famous European comeback.
Tactics & Key Battles
Here’s where the chess match begins. PSG love to stretch play with width and raw pace. Bradley Barcola is expected to replace the injured Dembele, and he’ll be a major threat down the flanks. With Kvaratskhelia floating and Hakimi bombing forward, Arsenal’s full-backs will need to be laser-focused.
In midfield, Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and Neves will look to control tempo and exploit Arsenal’s defensive transitions. But here’s the good news for Gooners: Thomas Partey is back. The Ghanaian’s presence offers a massive boost. His ability to shield the defence and free up Declan Rice to push forward could tilt the balance in Arsenal’s favour.
It’s also a big night for Martin Ødegaard, who needs to impose himself and thread passes that split PSG’s backline. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli cutting inside and sniffing for chances, the Gunners do have the firepower to cause damage.
Players to Watch
Bradley Barcola (PSG) – He scored against Strasbourg at the weekend and will be full of confidence. His movement and finishing will test Arsenal’s backline.
Declan Rice (Arsenal) – Scored in the Premier League on the weekend and thrives in big games. If he drives forward, he could disrupt PSG’s rhythm.
Donnarumma (PSG) – His saves in the first leg were huge. Arsenal will test him again, and he’ll need to be just as sharp.
Saka & Martinelli (Arsenal) – This is their time to shine. If they get isolated against PSG’s fullbacks, they’ll be licking their lips.
This tie is far from over. Yes, PSG have the upper hand. Yes, they’re at home. But Arsenal have a history of bouncing back and love playing with their backs against the wall. If they can survive the early onslaught and find a goal before half-time, this tie flips on its head.
Expect a fast start, a few nervy moments, and at least one stunner. But ultimately, PSG’s experience and quality at home might just edge it.
