Premier League finale is far from perfect but buoyant middle class brings the noise

 In a perfect world, what would the final day of the Premier League season look like? You’d have two sides going for the title – perhaps three or even four, all playing teams of similar standard and motivation. You’d have maybe six teams contesting the three relegation slots, possibly playing each other, and also a skirmish for European qualification.

Ideally all 10 games would mean something and there should be times over the course of the afternoon when each side have the set of results they need to achieve their aims. And there should definitely be a moment when it becomes apparent that a harassed television presenter has forgotten or overlooked a goal so viewers can mutter furiously at the screen: “For heavens’ sake, that puts Brentford in ninth.”

In reality 10 live games is probably too much to ask – and the disorientating experience of the final night of the Champions League group stage suggests it may be too much to comprehend anyway – but six of Sunday afternoon’s games potentially have something riding on them and one is a bona fide head-to-head, winner-takes-it-all clash.

There has been a lot of talk about this being a poor or an anticlimactic season. While the latter term may be fair with regard to the title race and the relegation battle, the former certainly is not. The title race was in effect over from 18 January, the Saturday when Liverpool won with two late goals at Brentford and Arsenal threw away a two-goal lead at home to Aston Villa. The relegation battle was done once Wolves had brought in Vítor Pereira while Leicester went for Ruud van Nistelrooy and Southampton for Ivan Juric. The most crucial issues were decided early.

But as to the allegation this was somehow a season lacking in quality, it is always worth remembering that multiple themes can be true simultaneously. Arsenal and especially Manchester City have had disappointing seasons by their standards and that meant Liverpool were not challenged as they might have been. Arsenal, having drawn too many games, will finish second for the third season running but having offered less of a challenge than in the previous two years, while City could yet miss out on the Champions League if they lose at Fulham and Newcastle, Chelsea and Aston Villa all win. Equally, none of the three promoted sides ever looked remotely good enough to survive.

It is worth, though, asking why they struggled so much and why City and Arsenal were punished for wobbles. The major reason is probably the general strength of the middle ranks of the Premier League – which is why Liverpool’s consistency deserves more praise than many seemed prepared to give them. Every team from Newcastle in fourth down to Crystal Palace in 12th have had games they will remember fondly and would be more than worthy English representatives in European competition next season.

Bournemouth, for instance, played some exceptional football at times, beating Arsenal (twice), Manchester City and Newcastle. They have a centre-back they have already sold to Real Madrid for £50m and a full-back they look like selling to Liverpool for £40m, yet they go into the final day of the season with no chance of European qualification. There have been times recently when Andoni Iraola, one of those coaches named by Pep Guardiola as shaping the football of the future, has been frustrated by his side’s occasional inability to manage games as he would like, but this has been the greatest season in Bournemouth’s history.

Of the 30 richest by revenue in the world, 14 are Premier League clubs. On the one hand, that suggests the strength of the league and the power of its marketing. But that brings its own problems and highlights perhaps the biggest issue football has, which is that almost no one in authority thinks holistically.

Money for one or two clubs as, say, the Club World Cup will provide, can unbalance a domestic league. One country prospers and others are left behind. The Champions League now – as a competition to be won rather than a generator of cash – essentially exists for four countries plus Paris Saint-Germain, while others scrabble for crumbs that will make them wealthy enough to ensure domination of their domestic leagues.

The standard of almost every side in the Premier League now is exceptional, which is why the three teams promoted from the Championship, almost no matter how well run they are, will face a major challenge to stay up. What Brentford have achieved with the second-lowest wage bill in the Premier League is remarkable, but they are almost uniquely well run. To have even a chance of survival, promoted sides need either a world-leading algorithmic approach to transfers, as Brentford and Bournemouth do, or a manager of rare gifts, such as Marcelo Bielsa (and, perhaps, although he seems rarely thought of in this light, Thomas Frank).

And then there are Nottingham Forest, who have shown that it is possible for a side promoted via the playoffs not only to survive but to prosper, even if it has taken 57 signings with a net spend of £125m over the past three years – and a four-point deduction for breaches of profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) – to do so. Against that, the transfer activity of the side they face on Sunday in what is in effect a straight shootout for Champions League qualification looks almost restrained. Chelsea in the same period have made 42 signings at a net cost of £660m: 99 signings battling it out for Champions League cash feels a perfect symbol of the modern world.

This is where the positive impact of PSR can be seen. Manchester United cannot spend their way out of trouble. If Chelsea lose, they will find ambitions restricted. Forest, meanwhile, could suddenly be elevated, probably not to be regular Champions League qualifiers, but at least to be fairly secure in mid-table, adding further heft to the Premier League’s middle class.

Which is good for the Premier League, and maintains its traditional strength – recently challenged – as a competition of consistent quality that can be won by more than just a couple of super-clubs. But at the same time, there are consequences for the rest of the pyramid and for the rest of Europe and the world.

Turkey's Erdogan, Pakistan PM Sharif discuss boosting cooperation

 Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan met Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Istanbul on Sunday and said the two countries would strive to boost cooperation, particularly in defence, energy and transportation, Erdogan's office said.

Turkey has strong ties with Pakistan, both being largely Muslim countries and sharing historical links, and expressed solidarity with it during its recent clashes with India.

Erdogan's office said he told Sharif it was in the interest of Turkey and Pakistan to increase solidarity in education, intelligence sharing and technological support in the fight against terrorism.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Defence Minister Yasar Guler and intelligence agency chief Ibrahim Kalin also attended the meeting.

Earlier in May, Erdogan expressed solidarity with Pakistan after India conducted military strikes in response to an attack in Indian Kashmir by Islamist assailants. The clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbours were the worst in more than two decades.

Ankara also maintains cordial ties with India but after Erdogan's expression of support for Pakistan, small Indian grocery shops and major online fashion retailers boycotted Turkish products.

London City Lionesses fined £15,000 for approaching player through DMs

 London City Lionesses have been fined £15,000 for making an approach to a Southampton player via social media, without her club’s permission.

The club newly promoted to the Women’s Super League (WSL) admitted to the Football Association’s charge, which related to an attempt to sign the player from their Women’s Championship rivals during last summer’s transfer window. The player’s name was redacted from the published written findings of an independent regulatory commission. The hearing took place in March 2025.

The regulatory commission found that on 9 August 2024, London City Lionesses’ managing director, Sarah Batters, sent the player a message saying: “Hiya – just so you know, we’ve made the approach and have spoken to [redacted name] and they are open to sell … there’s the question of the fee, but what would your salary expectations be? Obviously I would love to make this happen!!”

That message came three hours before Southampton responded to an earlier email received from London City’s recruitment manager, with Southampton explaining in their reply that they “won’t be engaging in conversations with you regarding a transfer”, with Southampton’s email adding “we have received interest from a number of clubs and some are prepared to meet the release fee” for the player.

London City’s recruitment manager had explained in an email on 6 August that they would not be able to pay the release clause in her contract, the unspecific price of which had been clarified with her agent in a phone call earlier on that day. The hearing also heard that Batters had contacted the player via social media in July to ascertain the contact details for her agent.

The regulatory commission, which noted that London City had apologised and cooperated with the disciplinary process, also revealed that London City had said they had been prepared to pay £150,000 to sign the player, and that sum was taken into account when calculating their £15,000 fine.

Next season London City Lionesses will be the first fully independent women’s club to compete in the WSL, with no affiliation to a men’s side. They are owned by the American businesswoman Michele Kang, who also owns the recently renamed French champions OL Lyonnes and the US-based club Washington Spirit.

They are understood to have paid a second-tier record transfer fee to sign the striker Isobel Goodwin from Sheffield United last September, believed to be in excess of £100,000. She went on to be the Women’s Championship’s top scorer this past season.

Max Verstappen offers blunt ‘don’t work’ verdict as F1 hits Monaco

 Max Verstappen claims that the current F1 cars are too clumsy to “come alive” around street circuits, a worrying verdict ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix.

Fresh off his impressive victory at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Verstappen will bid to strengthen his pursuit of a fifth straight World Championship this weekend in Monaco, though he is not expecting a very exciting experience behind the wheel on the iconic street track.

Max Verstappen rues ‘too big, too heavy’ F1 cars ahead of Monaco GP

The Monaco Grand Prix has been an iconic stop on the F1 calendar since 1950, and alongside an Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans victory, forms the unofficial ‘Triple Crown of Motorsport’.

But as the cars have grown bigger and gained mass over the years, it has raised question marks over the suitability of the circuit for modern F1 competition.

Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has looked to go some way to addressing the situation with the new regulations for F1 2026, which will introduce smaller and lighter cars, but before then, the current F1 challengers will head into Monaco Grand Prix action one final time.

And Verstappen is of the belief that these cars are “dull” when driven around a street track.

“I do think the cars that we have now, they just don’t really work that nicely on a street circuit, unfortunately,” he said at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

“They are way too big, too stiff, too heavy. So, I would say they don’t really come alive compared to like 2016 even.

“I know the lap times were a lot slower, but at least there felt like on a street circuit, the car was still coming alive a bit. You could take some curbs and yeah, it was working. Now, everything just feels a bit dull.

“But yeah, on tracks like this [Imola], it is a lot of fun, you know, so many fast corners. And you know that basically the limit is the gravel or the grass, and I think that makes it always a little bit more exciting and a little bit more difficult.”

The 2025 staging of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola looks set to be the last for the foreseeable future.

Imola joins Monaco as iconic venues within the world of Formula 1, and as the calendar continues to evolve amid surging popularity for the sport, Verstappen’s title rival Oscar Piastri urged caution over which tracks make way.

“If we don’t come back here, it is going to be a shame,” said Piastri on Imola.

“I think having two races in the same country in today’s F1 maybe doesn’t make the most sense, given how many countries want to hold a race.

“But, I agree we need to be careful. We need to be careful not to lose all the historical tracks that have been here forever, because I think at least 75 per cent of them are the favourites for the drivers.

“I think if you ask the drivers their top three favourites, it’s probably a mix of Silverstone, Suzuka, Spa, here, and probably Zandvoort. And here is probably going to disappear. Zandvoort is disappearing. Spa is on a rotation. I think Monza is pretty safe, because I think [laughs] there’s some other problems if Monza disappears!

“But we do need to be careful to keep all these tracks, because a qualifying session around Imola, and tracks like Imola, are definitely more exciting than some other tracks on the calendar, for example. But it’s obviously a balance.”

Belgium in Eurovision Israel boycott U-turn as Spain risks huge fine in final

 Belgium's broadcaster VRT appeared to make a U-turn during Saturday evening's Eurovision final after their choice to air an anti-Israel, pro-Palestine VT during the semi-finals.

It comes after Spain risked a huge Eurovision fine by displaying a statement ahead before the show, showing a black screen with white text in both Spanish and an English translation about "justice for Palestine".

Prior to the final, the Eurovision Broadcasting Union (EBU) had warned Spain's broadcaster RTVE of “punitive fines” if their commentators repeated references of the Gaza conflict, as they had done during the semi-final on Thursday.

It had been suggested by Belgian media that VRT may ignore the warning and show a black screen during the performance of Israeli singer Yuval Raphael, who survived the 7 October 2023 attacks. However, the broadcaster ultimately decided to air the performance and their semi-final message condemning Israel appeared to have not stopped the Belgian public from voting in favour of Israel.

In fact, the Belgian public opted to gift the top 12 points to Israel, followed by 10 to Poland and eight to France.

The message shown during the first semi-final had read, translated from Dutch: "This is industrial action. We condemn the violations of human rights by the State of Israel. Furthermore, the State of Israel is destroying freedom of the press. That's why we interrupt the picture for a moment. #CeasefireNow #StopGenocide."

Spain, however, ignored the warning from the EBU with their message reading: "When human rights are at stake, silence is not an option. Peace and Justice for Palestine." The statement stayed on screen for 16 seconds.

The broadcast on RTVE, the BBC equivalent in the country, was also posted on Twitter/X. And the message quickly gained traction by social media users too.

There was controversy from the off after pro-Palestine protestors rallied to object to Israel's inclusion in the competition. And there was more chaos following Israel's performance.

The country's contestant was met with a mixed response from the audience. As Israel's hopeful Yuval Raphael thanked viewers following her performance, UK commentator Graham Norton couldn't help but aim a jibe at Switzerland and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).

Comedian Graham told UK viewers: "I'm not sure what you're hearing at home, but it was a mixed response." His blunt response came after the Eurovision Song Contest had been criticised after it reportedly covered the sounds of the audience booing the controversial entrant and adding fake applause.

Reports suggested the competition's bosses chose to drown out the sounds of booing from the arena. It came after her performance of New Day Will Rise during the rehearsal on Friday night.

They released a statement regarding the crowd noise. It read: "For the Eurovision Song Contest, the host broadcaster SRG SSR is working with the 'audio sweetening' method, which is common practice for major international productions.

"This process helps to harmonise the sound of the transitions between moderations, video clips and the individual acts and to create a consistent soundscape for the TV audience. It is used exclusively for the technical rounding off of the programme.

"This process is used equally and identically for all acts. The competition and its results are not affected in any way." Those watching at home quickly took to social media to comment on the mixed response after it aired.

And two people in the arena also tried to disrupt the Israeli performance. Two people attempted to rush the stage, organisers have said. A spokesman for SRG SSR revealed: “At the end of the Israeli performance a man and a woman tried to get over a barrier onto the stage.

“They were stopped. One of the two agitators threw paint and a crew member was hit. The crew member is fine and nobody was injured. The man and the woman were taken out of the venue and handed over to the police.”

Paul Scholes: 'Ballon d'Or Winner Rejected Man Utd - So We Kicked Lumps Out Of Him'

 Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes shared the pitch with some of the best players in world football during his remarkable career at Old Trafford, which was decorated with 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies.

From Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney up front to Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic at the back, Scholes always had world-class teammates playing alongside him, helping lead the Red Devils to a plethora of major honours both in England and Europe.

However, on some occassions, Man United were unlucky when chasing top-class players during Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign, and Scholes once pointed to a particular case where a Ballon d'Or winner rejected a move to Old Trafford in favour of a switch to Barcelona.

Paul Scholes Disappointed by Ronaldinho

‘He ended up changing his mind’

Scholes, speaking on the Savage Social podcast in 2020, claimed Ronaldinho was just days away from joining the Red Devils in 2003 and that, when he ultimately chose Barcelona, Man United players were left disappointed and targeted the Brazilian during a pre-season game:

“I remember two or three that were possibly coming. I think the one that stands out is Ronaldinho.

“He was away on pre-season and we were as close as announcing him and giving him a number but I think he ended up changing his mind at the last minute and signing for Barcelona.

“It's strange really because we played Barcelona on that pre-season tour.

“We were all excited - Ronaldinho, what a player! I think he was coming from PSG at the time and we were all going to get to play with him and he's going to bring something special.

“Almost like what Eric Cantona brought to the team. Then, three days later, we're playing against him and all trying to kick him because he didn't sign for us.

“It was disappointing but I was lucky enough to play with some great players and he'd have just been another unbelievable player I'd played with, but it just never happened.”

Ferguson was reportedly a big fan of Ronaldinho while he was still at Paris Saint-Germain, although the Brazilian's decision to choose the Nou Camp over Old Trafford ultimately worked out well for both parties.

United went on to sign a promising teenager by the name of Cristiano Ronaldo in the same summer of 2003, while Ronaldinho became one of the best players in world football and won multiple major honours during his time at Barcelona.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Ronaldinho scored 94 goals and provided 69 assists in 207 appearances for Barcelona.

The Brazilian forward won the Ballon d'Or in 2005, as well as the Champions League title in 2005/06, two La Liga trophies and two Spanish Supercups during his five-year stint with the Catalans.

The 2002 World Cup winner departed the Nou Camp in 2008 for AC Milan, where he became an Italian champion in 2010/11 and played alongside former Man United midfielder David Beckham.

UEFA issue Champions League final statement after Paris Saint-Germain fans left furious

 UEFA have warned supporters that tickets for the Champions League final cannot be resold as anger mounts among Paris Saint-Germain fans. The French champions have sold their entire allocation of 18,000 tickets in just two waves.

Luis Enrique's side booked their place in their first Champions League final for five years by easing past Arsenal in the semi-finals. They will face Inter Milan, who edged Barcelona 7-6 in a final four clash for the ages.

The two sides will meet at Munich's Allianz Arena on 31 May for the chance to lift the European Cup. The allocation for the final has been split between PSG, Inter and UEFA, who handle sponsor and hospitality sales for the game.

PSG had scheduled three waves to sell their tickets to season ticket holders, but sold out during the wave two. The first wave favoured their long-standing season ticket holders who were guaranteed a seat for the final.

The club also decided to invite all their employees, as well as partners and the players' families. That meant that at the time of the launch of wave two, only a few thousand seats remained.

Those in the second wave were forced to wait for an email allowing them to access the code, which was severly delayed in being sent. Amid the mounting frustration, UEFA have now warned those who have been able to secure tickets against trying to resell them.

"It is not permitted to resell tickets, which are also personal tickets," a spokesperson for the governing body told RMC Sport. "In order to prevent the unauthorized resale of tickets, it is in the interest of UEFA Events SA to appropriately restrict the unauthorized resale of tickets."

Sanctions for those caught reselling range from a fine to full or partial reimbursement of any profit exceeding the face value of the ticket generated by the unauthorised resale of the ticket.

Having already secured the Ligue 1 title, PSG are bidding to win the treble. A week before the Champions League final, they will face Stade de Reims in the final of the Coupe de France.

But the Parc des Princes club are facing a mounting rebellion from supporters over the way they conducted the sales process for the Champions League final. One said: "Wave 2 in 5 minutes, there were no more places, @PSG_Inside you have blood on your hands."

Another added: "Wave 2, I log in, 3 minutes of waiting, full... Those in wave 3, don't even bother, thanks @PSG_Inside. No respect for long-time season ticket holders."

A third fumed: "We want the figures. How many tickets were on sale in wave 2 and at what prices. It's not normal that season ticket holders find themselves without a seat because wave 1 holders were able to buy several tickets. A big club must respect its supporters."

UK beats Europe in battle for investment for fifth year in a row - dispelling concerns over Brexit

 The UK has attracted more new foreign direct investment than any other European country for the fifth year in a row – dispelling fears over the impact of Brexit.

Figures from accountants EY showed Britain attracted 535 new projects in 2024. 

However, that was down by 27 per cent when compared with 2023.

Germany and France also had sharp falls, of 19 per cent and 12 per cent, as ‘an element of investor hesitancy’ took hold, according to EY chief economist Peter Arnold.

Arnold said it ‘can be partially attributed to higher energy and labour costs in many European countries, as well as a degree of political uncertainty from the UK, France and Germany all holding major elections in 2024’. 

But the UK performance suggests leaving the EU has not been the disaster that some predicted.

Julian Jessop, economics fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs, a free-market think-tank, said: ‘Some investment was held back by uncertainty initially created by the vote to leave. 

'But this survey adds to evidence that headwind has faded and Brexit Britain is still a relatively attractive place to build a business.

‘That appeal can only grow as the UK lowers trade barriers.’

EY figures showed that when it comes to overall foreign direct investment – additions or extensions to existing projects – Britain’s 853 projects trailed France’s 1,025 last year. 

By region, greater London was the biggest in Europe, with 265 projects.

Like a younger Isak: Arsenal already doing work to sign "electric" £70m gem

 Arsenal will surely sign a new striker for big money this summer, but the question remains, who will it be?

The Gunners have scored just 64 goals in the Premier League this season, down from 91 last year and 88 the season before that, which is a major factor why they will conclude the campaign trophyless.

So, given that they're unlikely to be unable to land Mikel Arteta's dream target, are they about to snap-up an "electric" alternative?

Arsenal's search for a new striker

According to a report by Miguel Delaney of the Independent, Arsenal have 'laid the groundwork' as they continue to pursue RB Leipzig attacker Benjamin Šeško.

The Gunners attempted to sign the Slovenian international early last summer before the European Championships, but the 21-year-old decided to sign a new contract with Leipzig instead of moving to North London.

Now though, Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Deutschland claims that Šeško has a release clause worth €80m (around £68m), adding that a move 'is also possible without triggering the clause'.

Philipp Hinze, also of Sky Sports Deutschland, reports that Leipzig 'don’t want to let' him go but, with die Roten Bullen on course to miss out on Champions League qualification, all the indications are that Šeško will be on the move this summer, so could it be to Arsenal?

Why Benjamin Šeško would be a good signing for Arsenal

Of course, Šeško is not Arteta's dream striker signing, that is Alexander Isak, with Sami Mokbel of BBC Sport outlining how he is top of the manager's wishlist, while acknowledging that this move is very unlikely to happen, with Phil McNulty of BBC Sport adding that he cannot see Newcastle selling their 'best player' to a direct Premier League rival.

Meantime, speaking on the Arsecast Extra, James McNicholas adds that it is going to be near-impossible for Arsenal to sign the Swede if Newcastle qualify for the Champions League, which they're very much on course to achieve, thereby meaning they'll surely have to look elsewhere.

So, should Šeško be the next name on the list?

Well, analyst Ben Mattinson labels the Slovenian "electric", praising his "two-footed ball-striking" ability, while Lee Scott of Total Football Analysis notes that he 'possesses the ability to score a wide variety of goals', which is certainly a useful skill to have, one that many members of Arsenal's forward line do not.

Meantime, Luis Kircher of Total Football Analysis describes Šeško as an 'exceptional talent', while Alex Barker of Breaking the Lines believes the 'hot prospect' is destined for the top, sighting Matthias Jaissle, his former manager at RB Salzburg, who labelled him “a dream of a player”.

A 6 foot 4 monster of a centre-forward, much like Isak, the Leipzig man is very much a young version of his Newcastle counterpart. So let's assess how the duo compare this season.

As the table outlines, in a near-identical number of minutes this season, Šeško and Isak's statistics are often very similar, but with a few key differences.

Šeško boasts a slightly better goals - xG figure, while a higher percentage of his shots find the target, missing two-fewer Opta-defined big chances.

Meantime, Isak comes out on top when it comes to goals, shot-creating actions and pure total shots, while the Swede takes a higher proportion of his touches inside the opposition's penalty area.

Nevertheless, if Isak is the unascertainable dream target, Šeško's statistics suggest he would be a more than adequate, youthful alternative, firing Arsenal to the big trophies that they so desperately crave.

Amorim questions his United future after Soucek sets up West Ham win

 This was an exercise in how not to utilise the first of only two matches to tune up before a major European final from Manchester United that left Ruben Amorim so disenchanted he spoke of not being in charge if the start to next season is the same.

The head coach said: “I’m talking about myself, I’m talking about the culture in the club and the culture in the team. We need to be really strong in the summer and be brave. We will not have a next season like this if we start like this. If the feeling is still here we should give space [his position] to different persons.”

Amorim’s side was patternless and pathetic and has only the trip to Chelsea on Friday to erase the memory before jetting into Bilbao to face Tottenham in the Europa League final on Wednesday week.

The Portuguese identified an attitude defect. “It’s mentally. We are not scared of losing a game as Manchester United. We don’t have that fear any more and that is the most dangerous thing that a big club can have.

“There’s a lack of urgency when we’re defending our box. We need to be more aggressive and need to feel that it is the end of the world when we are not winning a game.”

United have now lost 17 Premier League matches this season, 13 of them under Amorim. When Tomas Soucek’s 26th‑minute backheel beat Altay Bayindir, United sank to 17th in the table, an inarguable barometer of how far they have fallen under the 40-year-old. By the interval they were up a berth as Tottenham trailed Crystal Palace, where they stayed, and so continental club football’s second-tier tournament at the Estadio San Mamés will pit foes occupying, to their blushes, the first two places above the drop zone.

Again, Amorim was damning, questioning whether United should even compete in the Champions League next term – the prize for winning the Europa League. “Everybody is focused on the final. The final is not the biggest thing in our football club. We need to change a lot of things. If we don’t change the way we play and perform and feel this urgency of winning every game, we should not play in the Champions League.

“We should just stay in the Premier League and learn how to be competitive one week at a time. Playing in the Premier League and Champions League for us is the moon.

“I’m not concerned about [performance in] the final – they will be focused and I don’t know what is best, if it’s playing in the Champions League or not. So let’s think about Chelsea [on Friday] to improve a lot of things.”

In blazing sun, both sets of players flitted about at half-speed, swapping possession as if in a warmup. When the pace was increased a fraction, gaps opened, as when Bruno Fernandes twice blasted over for United, a Maximilian Kilman header missed at the other end, and Amad Diallo illustrated his quality.

After teasing the ball at Aaron Wan-Bissaka, the right wing‑back swooped inside and, with his stronger left foot, let fly: as the crowd “oohed” Alphonse Areola, West Ham’s goalkeeper, saved.

With the Europa League showpiece ahead, Amorim shuffled his pack and, though Bayindir’s inclusion for André Onana in goal was most noteworthy, the stand-in could do nothing to prevent the opener.

Down the left, Wan-Bissaka found Mohammed Kudus, he fizzed the ball across, Soucek fashioned a back‑flick that deflected off Harry Amass, and United had conceded the opener in 22 of their 36 Premier gamedays, including 11 of the last 16.

For West Ham, showing three changes, this was a fine opening salvo in their bid to end an eight-game run without a victory. United, donning a one-off shirt showing the logo of health injustice charity (Red) to raise awareness, were, simply, amateurish.

At the next Hammers foray, Bayindir rushed forward to fend off a delivery but Noussair Mazraoui stepped across him to blast away for a corner. Then, twice, Rasmus Højlund showed why he draws the ire of a sizable constituency of United enthusiasts.

A swivel and unload ended with the ball in the heavens and the striker pratfallen. Next, running on to a clever Manuel Ugarte chip from midfield, Højlund’s right-footed volley was as powder-puff as United’s league endeavours.

The plot worsened for United when Leny Yoro limped off. “We have to assess Leny tomorrow,” Amorim said. “It could be a small thing.”

The Hammers second came when Ugarte was pickpocketed and did not chase back – a prime example of the “lack of urgency” – the ball ended up left and Wan-Bissaka’s roll to Jarrod Bowen was as smooth as the captain’s finish.

“Very pleasing,” was Graham Potter’s verdict. How Amorim wishes his counterpart’s emotion could be his.

Araujo costs Barcelona again in the Champions League

 It was mad at times, it was infuriating and it was entertaining.

Although Barca lost another Champions League semi-final, they did so by giving it their all and were only let down by a player that doesn’t really deserve the armband; Ronald Araujo.

Not considered good enough to start by Hansi Flick, the Uruguayan, who has courted other teams over the past 12-18 months, showed exactly why Inigo Martinez is generally preferred in his stead.

After the most epic of comebacks from 2-0 down - the second time in a week Barca have done so against Inter - Araujo’s tardiness in not getting goal side of Francesco Acerbi - at 37 the oldest man on the pitch - allowed the defender to equalise in injury time.

Inter’s fourth could also patently have been avoided too. Araujo was right there but just stood statuesque rather than charging down the ball or at the very least throwing out a leg.

He just watched as the ball whizzed past Wojciech Szczesny.

Lest we forget it was the Uruguayan centre-back who got himself red-carded against Paris Saint-Germain in 2023/24, killing Barca’s chances of progression in the tournament last season.

It’s hard to fault the collective as, unlike in previous huge UCL ties where the Catalans have allowed three-goal leads to slip, they battled until they were dead on their feet.

On another night, Yann Sommer wouldn’t have saved a hatful of certain goals, Lamine Yamal wouldn’t have hit the post and Barca would’ve deserved their place in the final.

As it is, after shipping another four goals, meaning they’ve let in 24 in their 14 UCL games in 2024/25, it wasn’t to be. And it’s no surprise, no team to have allowed such a high goals-against average (1.71 per game) has reached the final of the tournament.

Another European campaign that will be looked upon as what might’ve been.

If there is any consolation whatsoever to such an energy-sapping loss ahead of another El Clasico, it’s that most of those that pulled on the lime green jersey could’ve done nothing more on the night.

Frenkie de Jong and Lamine Yamal were particularly impressive and even Gerard Martin had one of his best games for the club. And don’t forget Eric Garcia who scored a goal he will never forget.

Ultimately, all their efforts were in vain, however, and perhaps, this game has put the final nail in the coffin as far as Ronald Araujo’s future at the club goes.

With Los Blancos coming to town at the weekend, there’s no time for Barca to feel sorry for themselves either. Lose that and the cat is really put amongst the pigeons in La Liga too.

Arsene Wenger claims referee made huge mistake in Barcelona's Champions League defeat

 Arsene Wenger believes Barcelona were on the wrong end of a huge mistake from the officials during a remarkable Champions League semi-final defeat to Inter Milan.

Barca came from two goals down, just as they did in the first leg in Spain, and looked to have booked their place in the final when Raphinha scored an 87th-minute goal to put the visitors 3-2 up on the night and 6-5 up on aggregate.

But Inter Milan’s 37-year-old defender Francesco Acerbi, thrown up front in the dying minutes, turned home a dramatic equaliser to take one of the most entertaining Champions League ties in memory to extra-time.

The late equaliser gave Inter renewed energy and the Serie A giants scored what turned out to be an extra-time winner through Davide Frattesi.

After a thrilling 3-3 draw in Spain, Inter Milan appeared to take control of the semi-final tie by going 2-0 up on the night and 5-3 up on aggregate in the opening 45 minutes of the second leg at the San Siro.

Lautaro Martinez, an injury doubt coming into the match, put Inter Milan ahead from a well-worked goal before the striker won a penalty on the stroke of half-time which Hakan Calhanoglu slotted home.

Inter were awarded a spot-kick following a VAR review after Pau Cubarsi was adjudged to have tripped Martinez as he raced through on goal.

Referee Szymon Marciniak initially waved away Inter’s appeals but was advised to take a look at the pitchside monitor by VAR and overturned his decision.

Ex-Arsenal manager Wenger disagreed with the call, however, and said Martinez bought the penalty.

‘I am highly against these kind of penalties and I am highly against using the slow-motion,’ Wenger told beIN SPORTS.

‘At normal pace, this is a great tackle, he’s first on the ball. Why does he touch him?

‘Look what Lautaro is doing. He leans into him, he looks for the penalty, he knows he cannot score because he feels the defender there.

‘The referee, in this situation, has not made the right decision. He [Cubarsi] is first to the ball and that’s what counts for me.

‘The rest is done by Lautaro. It doesn’t matter if there’s contact, it’s who plays the ball and who wins the ball first.’

Barcelona endured more penalty frustration later in the game after a spot-kick they were awarded for a foul on the lively Lamine Yamal was downgraded to a free-kick on the edge of the box following another VAR check.

Inter Milan’s sensational victory over Barcelona means they will contest the 2025 Champions League final on May 31 against either Premier League side Arsenal or French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

PSG boast a 1-0 lead over the Gunners ahead of their semi-final second leg in Paris on Wednesday night.

While Barcelona’s Champions League hopes have been dashed, they remain on course to win La Liga, currently sitting four points clear of Real Madrid with four games to play.

Hansi Flick’s side, who have excited fans with some breathtaking football in the Champions League, also won the Copa del Rey, beating arch-rivals Madrid in the final.

Reacting to Inter’s famous win and Barca’s heartbreaking defeat, Premier League all-time record goalscorer Alan Shearer said: ‘Thank you Inter Milan and thank you Barcelona.

‘You’ve provided us with incredible entertainment and two great football matches. What we have witnessed has been something very special.’

Former England striker Daniel Sturridge added: ‘It’s going to be a party tonight. Special game. Can we watch these teams play every game?

‘It is so good the match-up. This will be a memory that will last forever in these fans minds. It was such a special game to experience.’

Looking Back at the Time ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ Mocked Him Over Holding the UFC Belt

 Belal Muhammad and Kamaru Usman have fired shots at each other on quite a few occasions since the former claimed the UFC welterweight gold at UFC 304. Recently, Muhammad clapped back at Usman once more after discovering one of his previous deriding comments. In reply to Usman’s remarks, Muhammad implied that “The Nigerian Nightmare” era had passed years ago.

Belal Muhammad Inferred That Kamaru Usman Was Far Past His Prime

A large chunk of the UFC community hails Usman as one of the best welterweight champions in the history of the promotion. “The Nigerian Nightmare” claimed the welterweight gold at UFC 235 with a unanimous decision victory over Tyron Woodley.

Usman held the welterweight title for over three years with five successful title defenses before losing it to Leon Edwards at UFC 278 in 2022. During his title reign, the 37-year-old also bagged the top spot in UFC’s best pound-for-pound fighters list, which speaks volumes about his prowess at welterweight.

Usman failed to reclaim the welterweight title in the rematch with Edwards at UFC 286. However, Muhammad’s emergence as the welterweight king at UFC 304 provided the Nigerian-American with a ray of hope about winning the title once more.

Shortly after Muhammad’s UFC 304 victory, Usman started firing shots at him to gain his attention. “Remember The Name” came up with befitting replies for the former welterweight king, marking the beginning of their feud, which has continued to this day.

A recent Instagram post from ESPN MMA highlighted Usman’s deriding remarks about Muhammad’s UFC title photoshoot with Islam Makhachev after his victory at UFC 304. The 37-year-old made fun of the fact that Makhachev had to help Muhammad get into a proper pose with his title for the photoshoot. His comment read, “Islam had to teach him [Muahmmad] how to hold the belt”.

Muhammad replied to Usman’s deriding remarks with a mocking comment. He implied that the former welterweight champ was past his prime in the UFC, mentioning, “Nah, he was just showing me your old fingerprints on it.”

Despite firing an array of shots at Muhammad, Usman hasn’t been successful in getting himself into the title scenario. A major opportunity is coming his way to prove his worth once more and possibly get in the hunt for the welterweight title.

Usman will lock horns with the surging welterweight contender, Joaquin Buckley, at UFC on ESPN 69 on June 14. A win over the seventh-ranked contender is expected to help him get in the run for the title, besides Ian Machado Garry, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and others.

China sets condition for talks: U.S. must drop 'unilateral' tariffs

 China has announced it is currently evaluating U.S. proposals to initiate trade negotiations. This statement, delivered by a spokesperson from China's Ministry of Commerce, marks a subtle shift in Beijing's previously defiant tone. The announcement suggests a potential opening for dialogue, contingent upon specific conditions being met by the United States. This development comes amid a backdrop of escalating trade tensions, with both nations imposing steep tariffs on each other's goods.

The Chinese spokesperson noted that the United States has sent multiple messages to China through relevant channels, expressing a desire to commence talks. This contrasts with earlier claims by President Trump that discussions were already underway, which Beijing had firmly denied. Chinese sources, including state-affiliated social media, have suggested that the U.S. appears more eager to engage in discussions, highlighting the urgency from Washington's side.

China's key condition

Beijing has reiterated that any negotiations would require the fulfillment of certain preconditions. The primary condition is that the U.S. must demonstrate genuine sincerity, which includes being prepared to rectify its actions and cancel its unilateral tariff increases. A spokesperson from China's Ministry of Commerce previously stated, "If the United States truly wants to resolve the issue... it should cancel all unilateral measures against China." 

China maintains a consistent position: "If it's a fight, we'll take it to the end. If it's a conversation, the door is open." They emphasize that without the removal of tariffs, the U.S. does not show "sincerity at all" and risks damaging mutual trust.

Context of the Trade War

The announcement comes amid a spiraling tariff war with surprisingly high tariffs imposed by both sides. The U.S. increased tariffs on China to a staggering 145% in early May, while Beijing responded by raising tariffs on U.S. imports to 125%. Specific tariffs include a 25% levy on most auto parts and a 120% (or a fixed fee) on small packages valued at $800 or less. These tariffs are "stifling" trade between the world's two largest economies.

Economic Impact

The tariff war has exacted a "high cost" on both economies. China's export and manufacturing-dependent economy has seen order cuts and production halts. Chinese factory activity contracted in April at its fastest pace in 16 months. In the U.S., the economy contracted in the first quarter for the first time since 2022, partly due to businesses rushing to import goods before tariff hikes. U.S. business owners and analysts warn of significant economic consequences, including higher prices, product shortages, and store closures.

The Political and Negotiation ‘Game’Experts describe the situation as a "game of chicken" between Trump and Xi Jinping, where both leaders attempt to "save face" while seeking a mutually beneficial outcome: de-escalation. Neither side wants to appear as the first to yield, as doing so could be perceived as weakness and result in a loss of negotiating leverage. "Constructive ambiguity" has been used as a tactic to explore an exit, allowing whoever comes to the table first to frame it as a response. A key goal for both leaders is to "secure a win for their domestic audiences."

'Liverpool has already signed a brilliant player ahead of this summer - I know he's a great talent'

 Ahead of what could be a big summer for Liverpool, sporting director Richard Hughes has already wrapped up one big deal. The Georgian shot-stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili will be arriving from Valencia.

A $47 million (£35 million) move was agreed for him in the summer of 2024, with Mamardashvili remaining in Spain for the current campaign. It has been a mixed season of highs and lows, but he remains, at 23, one of the most highly-rated up-and-coming goalkeepers around.

Former Liverpool attacker Ryan Babel has been speaking about Mamardashvili and the impact he could make for the Reds. Arne Slot has had to rely on Caoimhin Kelleher at times this season, but the Georgian could take on that mantle next year.

"I know he’s a great talent," Babel told La Gazzetta, believing that the new signing could also prove integral as a replacement for Kelleher, with Alisson Becker expected to stay.

"I think it’s good that they brought in such a competitor for Alisson. We have a pretty long season ahead of us [next year], which could lead to a lot of injuries, so Mamardashvili’s transfer is the right move in every way."

Alisson, who broke down in tears at the final whistle against Spurs as the Premier League title was confirmed, is enjoying life on Merseyside. And his coach, the Brazilian legend Claudio Taffarel, expects him to stay put for a good while yet.

"The header goal (against West Brom to help secure Champions League qualification in 2021), that historic goal, the crying...It's a very beautiful story, right?" Taffarel said during a chat with ESPN Brasil.

"Ali wants to continue living this story. I saw that this wave of Saudi Arabia come with great opportunities, very high offers. But he always says: 'Wow, I want to continue this story because I owe a lot to them here, and I want to continue this life here'.

"I was impressed when I arrived. The admiration that the players have for him, the employees here, the [backroom staff] — both this one and Jurgen Klopp's in the past — the board

"He really is a very important figure here. Because of the history he has had here, on the field, right? Showing that in the games, important games."

Kelleher has previously made clear his desire to go and be a number one goalkeeper somewhere. He only has one year left on his contract and therefore a move in the next few months would make sense.

With Mamardashvili coming in, that would appear to line up nicely in terms of succession planning. The Valencia ace has already made clear that he will fight for the number one jersey, though Alisson will be tough to topple.

Putin is a liar and a murderer. It is impossible to accommodate him

 The pictures of presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky sitting face-to-face in St Peter’s basilica at the funeral of Pope Francis were poignant, even iconic. Here in the beating heart of the Vatican there are constant, and correct, reminders of the need for peace and reconciliation in a violent and conflicted world.

But St Peter’s is also built on a heritage of victimhood and martyrdom, the sacrifice of the righteous against brutality and oppression. The language used by President Trump, after the meeting, that Vladimir Putin may be “tapping me along” is not unprecedented.

There is a pattern of behaviour here where the hopes and aspirations of the free world come face-to-face with the violent, amoral behaviour of brutal tyranny. President George W Bush said that he looked into Putin’s eyes and “saw a soul”. Unfortunately Putin looked into his and saw a KGB file number. Once KGB always KGB.

Following Russia’s illegal invasion of Georgia in 2008, President Barack Obama decided on his “reset” policy to try to do business with Russia. Putin gratefully pocketed the offer and in 2014 occupied Crimea, part of Ukraine sovereign territory. When he saw the pusillanimous response from the West, he decided that he would also have further parts of Ukraine when he savagely invaded the country in February 2022 resulting in the death of over 13,000 Ukrainian civilians alongside 70,000 troops with 120,000 injured (this is not to mention the estimated 120,000 Russians who have died for no purpose other than Putin’s vanity).

Now, the grim reality is dawning on the ever optimistic President Trump. He is the latest in a line of Western leaders to believe that he can do business with Putin. David Cameron once believed it, so did Emmanuel Macron – but they both ended up accepting the harsh reality. No amount of hope for the future can disguise the fact that Putin is a liar, murderer and an international criminal.

The Ukrainians understand this more than most. In one of the most blatant acts of betrayal of recent history, Ukraine agreed to sign away the nuclear weapons it had inherited as a result of the breakup of the Soviet Union in return for assurances about their security. On December 5 1994, Ukraine signed up to the Budapest Memorandum, joining the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of nuclear weapons (NPT) along with Russia, the US and the UK, the existing nuclear powers, and supplemented by separate agreements with France and China.

The Treaty gave Ukraine assurances that its independence and sovereignty, according to its existing borders, would be respected by the other signatories. They would, under the terms of the agreement, refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of Ukraine. They also undertook to refrain from economic coercion of Ukraine to secure advantage of any kind (particularly in their own interests). They went even further in agreeing to seek immediate UN Security Council action to help Ukraine if they “should become a victim of an act of aggression”. Of course, the agreements, were drawn up to resemble a Nato-like guarantee but they were carefully drafted to end up being nothing of the sort.

Little wonder that President Zelensky now seeks much firmer security guarantees as a part of any peace agreement, especially from his Western allies, recognising as he does that Putin’s every assurance on security is a profanity and any signature an ultimately dispensable item to be discarded when Putin feels that his moment for future expansion is right.

In the free world we are hardwired to seek to preserve our freedom with concepts of a rule of law (including international law) and universal human rights.

We must accept those who reject these principles have a very different world-view. Putin is Criminal-in-Chief of what can only be described as a thugocracy. Political opponents at home are murdered or disappear, dissidents abroad are hunted down and even foreign subjects are poisoned by the FSB, including here in the UK.

Many Western leaders have learnt the hard way that there can be no long-term accommodation with Putin as he will simply ditch any promise, relinquish any agreement and abandon any of his faux-friendships when it suits his purpose. There is no shame whatsoever in seeking peace and reconciliation but when it comes to Vladimir Putin decent people, sooner or later, end up in the same place.