Trent Alexander-Arnold Transfer to Real Madrid in Doubt as Liverpool Future Still Open Liverpool fans may be experiencing a sense of déjà vu. Two decades ago, Steven Gerrard came close to a high-profile move to Chelsea, only to make a dramatic U-turn, commit his future to Liverpool, and go on to spend another decade at Anfield. Now, a similar scenario could be unfolding with Trent Alexander-Arnold. Speculation has intensified in recent months over a potential move to Real Madrid for the Liverpool vice-captain, especially with his current contract nearing its end. The allure of Madrid is undeniable—the club boasts an unmatched legacy, one of the world’s most iconic stadiums, and a reputation for glamour and greatness. A free transfer to the Spanish giants would be financially rewarding, and as many often say, it’s difficult to turn down Real Madrid when they come calling. However, recent developments may be causing Alexander-Arnold to rethink his options. Real Madrid’s recent 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Arsenal served as a reality check. While still a European powerhouse, Los Blancos have looked far from invincible this season. That defeat was their fifth in this season's Champions League campaign. They've also suffered heavy losses to Barcelona—conceding nine goals across two matches in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup—and find themselves trailing their arch-rivals by four points in the league. Commentators who follow the club closely have pointed out Madrid's vulnerabilities, suggesting that this version of the team lacks the dominance of past eras. They were also comfortably beaten earlier this season by Liverpool and AC Milan, further highlighting their inconsistency on the biggest stage. In contrast, Liverpool are riding a wave of stability and momentum under new manager Arne Slot. Despite narrowly exiting the Champions League at the hands of a vibrant PSG side and suffering a shock FA Cup loss to Plymouth, Slot's debut season has been impressive. The Reds are on track to clinch the Premier League title, having shown remarkable consistency and resilience. The atmosphere at Anfield has been further buoyed by reports that both Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are set to sign new two-year contract extensions—clear signals of a squad united in their vision and belief in Slot’s project. It’s also worth noting that Slot has achieved all of this with largely the same squad inherited from Jurgen Klopp, with minimal reinforcements. But that’s expected to change in the summer, as Liverpool prepare for a significant recruitment drive—one that may include a potential replacement for Alexander-Arnold should he depart. At 26, Alexander-Arnold is entering his peak years. A move to Real Madrid could certainly offer him a fresh challenge and the opportunity to write a new chapter in his career. However, the promise of continued success, a leadership role, and a familiar home at a thriving Liverpool could yet persuade him to stay. While reports in Spain suggest a deal with Madrid is close, the door remains open. As was the case with Gerrard, sometimes the heart chooses Anfield. And perhaps, just perhaps, Alexander-Arnold’s story at Liverpool isn’t finished yet.

Mac Allister Admits Liverpool “Didn’t Want to Be Here” After European Exit Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has made a candid admission following the club’s early Champions League exit, acknowledging the squad is frustrated with their current position. The Reds, once hopeful of securing a treble, are now left chasing just one trophy after a painful week in which they were knocked out of the Champions League by PSG in the round of 16 and fell to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final. Despite a dominant group-stage run in Europe, their hopes of silverware were dramatically reduced within days. With no European fixtures this week, Liverpool have had time to reflect as they prepare for Sunday’s Premier League clash with West Ham at Anfield. Speaking to the club’s official website, Mac Allister expressed the team’s disappointment. > “It does feel weird, to be honest. We didn’t want to be in this position, to be completely honest, because that means you’re not playing Champions League or another cup,” he said. > “But it is what it is. This week will help us to work on the things we’ve done wrong, especially in the last game, and prepare for the next one.” Despite the recent setbacks, Arne Slot’s side remains firmly in the Premier League title race. Sunday’s defeat was only Liverpool’s second league loss of the season, and they still hold an 11-point lead at the top, though their closest challengers have games in hand. Arsenal and Aston Villa continue to juggle domestic fixtures with European duties, while Liverpool have had a rare opportunity to regroup. They’ll be aiming to secure a third win this season over West Ham and stay on course for Premier League glory. Captain Virgil van Dijk also rejected claims that Liverpool’s season has lost its shine following their cup exits. Speaking after Michael Owen suggested the Reds’ campaign may now feel underwhelming, the Dutchman hit back. “At the start of the season, no one expected us to fight on all four fronts. We’re still in the race for the biggest one—and that’s the reality. It’s still very possible that this season could be very, very special.” Slot has overseen a smooth transition following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, maintaining Liverpool’s consistency as their rivals falter. With everything still to play for in the league, the Reds are determined to finish the season on a high.

Seven of Football’s Spiciest Pre-Match Beefs – And Who Had the Last Laugh Pre-match beefs are a rare treat in modern football. With players media-trained to avoid controversy and managers preferring to keep things diplomatic, genuine tension before kickoff doesn’t happen often. But when it does, it’s pure box office. Here are seven unforgettable football feuds that kicked off before the game – and who ended up getting the final word. Andre Onana vs Nemanja Matic Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana stirred the pot ahead of a Europa League clash with Lyon, boldly claiming United were “way better.” Former Red Devil Nemanja Matic didn’t let that slide. “If you're one of the worst keepers in Manchester United history, you should stay quiet,” Matic fired back. “If De Gea, Schmeichel, or Van der Sar said that, I’d think twice. But someone with your record? No.” Onana responded on social media, denying any disrespect: “I would never be disrespectful to another club... At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can’t say the same.” Spicy. And with Matic not being a striker, we may not get a direct duel—but the tension is undeniable. Erik ten Hag vs Alphonso Davies Ahead of United’s Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich, Erik ten Hag made headlines by calling Davies “not a great defender,” suggesting Facundo Pellistri could exploit him. Davies responded—on the pitch. Despite United scoring three, Bayern won 4-3, and Davies pulled off a crucial box-saving tackle on Pellistri. Post-match, the Canadian coolly said, “All that matters is I did my job and we got the three points.” Points victory: Davies. Thibaut Courtois vs Jordan Pickford After Belgium beat England in a 2018 World Cup group stage match, Courtois suggested Pickford would’ve saved Januzaj’s goal “if he were taller.” Pickford clapped back after his heroics against Colombia: “I don’t care if I’m not the biggest. I got the job done.” Courtois later clarified he wasn’t mocking Pickford’s height, just making a factual point. The rematch in the third-place play-off? Belgium won 2-0. Bronze secured—and the last laugh belonged to Courtois. Pep Guardiola vs Jose Mourinho The legendary rivalry flared in 2011 ahead of a Champions League semi-final between Barcelona and Real Madrid. After constant Mourinho jibes, Guardiola snapped in a press conference. “In this room, he is the chief, the f*cking man,” Pep said. “I can’t compete with him here.” Barcelona’s players reportedly gave him a standing ovation. Then, they backed him up with a 2-0 first-leg win and 3-1 aggregate victory, booking a place at Wembley. Advantage: Pep. Kevin Keegan vs Sir Alex Ferguson The most famous meltdown in Premier League history. Under pressure in the 1996 title race, Keegan exploded live on TV over Fergie’s mind games. “We’re still fighting for this title, and I’ll tell you honestly, I will love it if we beat them. Love it!” The outburst came with two games left—but Newcastle stumbled to back-to-back draws, and United cruised to the title. No surprise who had the last laugh: Fergie. MLS vs Roma In 2013, the MLS Twitter account poked fun at their Italian opponents before the All-Star game: “Rome wasn’t built in a day. Watch it fall in 90 minutes.” Unfortunately for them, Roma turned up and eased to a 3-1 win. Francesco Totti led the Italians, Thierry Henry captained MLS, and the internet beef aged like milk. Roma: 1, Social Media Team: 0 Roy Hodgson vs Harry the Hornet A bizarre entry, but a classic nonetheless. Watford mascot Harry the Hornet mocked Wilfried Zaha with a dive in 2016, drawing the ire of then-Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson ahead of their next meeting. “It’s disgraceful,” Hodgson fumed. “That’s not what football’s about.” Watford won 2-1, and Harry the Hornet reenacted the dive post-match—sealing the ultimate mascot mic-drop. From managerial mind games to mascots making mischief, these moments prove that sometimes the best action happens before the first whistle even blows.

Mohamed Salah put an end to months of speculation about his future by signing a new two-year deal with Premier League leaders Liverpool on Friday. The 32-year-old has netted 243 goals in 394 games since arriving from Roma in 2017, making him Liverpool’s third all-time top scorer. His stellar performances have played a key role in the Reds' push for a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title this season. “Of course I’m very excited. We have a great team now. Before also we had a great team. But I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies,” Salah said in a club statement. “It’s great, I had my best years here. I played eight years, hopefully it’s going to be 10.” Salah has netted 27 goals and provided 17 assists in the Premier League as Liverpool have amassed an 11-point lead with just seven games remaining in Arne Slot’s first season as manager. “He has shown at this club for so many years in a row how much of a value he is for the club and the team,” said Slot. “As like all our fans and his team-mates, we are very happy that he has extended for two more years. “Hopefully, he can show on Sunday again (against West Ham) how important he has been for us all season.” Salah played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph in 2019 and their long-awaited first league title in 30 years during the 2019/20 season. He has also lifted the FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup, cementing his legacy as one of the Premier League era’s greatest players.

For a moment, it looked like the usual script—Real Madrid absorbing pressure as their attacking stars lurked, ready to strike Arsenal on the break. But Declan Rice shattered expectations with two stunning free-kicks, and Mikel Merino added a third, putting the reigning champions on the brink of Champions League exit after a 3-0 first-leg quarter-final defeat on Tuesday. Now, Los Blancos must turn to another familiar storyline: the miraculous comeback at the Santiago Bernabeu. And they wasted no time setting that narrative in motion. “We’re totally convinced we can turn it around, this is Real Madrid, positive mindset and let’s go for it,” said defender Raul Asencio. “If there’s one team in the world that can turn this around, it’s us, with our fans, with our pitch, our stadium,” Lucas Vazquez told Movistar. “Next Wednesday will be a totally different game to this and together we will get it done.” Yet, despite their confident words, doubt is surely beginning to creep in for Madrid. This isn’t the same dominant side that lost only twice last season—Tuesday’s defeat at the Emirates marks their 11th loss of the current campaign. Vinicius Junior is off form, Kylian Mbappe is trying to carry the load alone, and Eduardo Camavinga will miss the second leg through suspension. Thibaut Courtois produced several fine saves in London, but even he was powerless to stop Rice’s two clinical free-kicks that pushed the 15-time champions to the brink. Real Madrid’s history of dramatic European comebacks has taken on a life of its own—a prophecy that seems to fulfill itself. The Bernabeu faithful turn matches into a whirlwind, fueling belief that no deficit is too great, while opponents often start to buckle under the pressure. In 2022, Paris Saint-Germain held a two-goal aggregate lead—until Karim Benzema flipped the script with a 17-minute hat-trick. More astonishing turnarounds followed against Chelsea and Manchester City en route to one of the most unforgettable Champions League triumphs ever. “(A comeback) is difficult but we know we’re strong at home with our fans,” said Courtois. “They have to believe in this team, from the first minute we’ll give everything to turn around the result. “We have to correct our mistakes and try to win. If we score one or two, quickly… I think it’s possible.” Despite their external confidence, Madrid saw how tough Arsenal are to crack. Even with centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes out injured, the Gunners were able to keep Carlo Ancelotti’s superstars at bay on Tuesday. Arteta’s side is extremely conservative, only allowing Madrid a couple of opportunities on the break in the first leg, and their lead gives them license to hold back next week and deny Vinicius and Mbappe space to operate. However at Real Madrid there is only one way of thinking permitted. “In football, everything can happen,” pointed out Ancelotti. “We’ll need something special,” said Jude Bellingham, who created Madrid’s best two chances in the first leg. “Of course we can,” said Mbappe, when asked if Madrid can fight back as he headed for the team bus.

WHAT HAPPENED? Declan Rice put on a set-piece clinic, scoring two sensational free-kicks that left Real Madrid stunned at the Emirates. The English midfielder’s precision and power from dead-ball situations were too much for the Spanish giants to handle. Mikel Merino compounded Madrid’s misery with a composed strike from the edge of the box, sealing an emphatic 3-0 victory for Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League showdown. WHAT ANCELOTTI SAID Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti did not mince words in his post-match reaction. The Italian tactician was brutally honest, admitting his side had been thoroughly outplayed by a better-organised and more technically astute Arsenal. “We have to throw everything in the bin,” Ancelotti said. “It’s going to be very difficult to recover. Their quality is very high, and they’re incredibly organised.” Madrid’s display fell far short of their European pedigree. The team, known for its late-game heroics, lacked intensity and failed to mount any meaningful response after conceding. Ancelotti didn’t shy away from criticism, acknowledging that his side did not meet the moment. “Normally, this team grows stronger towards the end of games,” he added. “But this time, it was disappointing — it was poor. We have to be self-critical and do everything possible to recover next week.” THE BIGGER PICTURE While the result is a significant setback, Real Madrid still have a glimmer of hope. The club’s history is filled with famous comebacks at the Santiago Bernabéu — from their legendary 1970s turnaround against Derby County to more recent heroics in knockout ties. The fans will be counting on that same spirit when Arsenal visit for the second leg. Ancelotti remains realistic but not entirely without hope. “The chances of qualifying are quite low, but we must give 100%,” he said. “We need to respond to this poor performance. If you look at tonight’s game, you’d say there’s no chance — but football can change in an instant. No one expected Rice to score twice from set pieces. That’s the nature of the game. We need belief and trust. At the Bernabéu, magical things have happened before.” WHAT’S NEXT FOR REAL MADRID? The reigning European champions must deliver a flawless performance in the return leg on April 16. That means shutting down Arsenal’s dynamic attack, tightening their defensive structure, and rediscovering the clinical edge that was sorely missing in London. With their backs against the wall, Madrid will need every ounce of their European experience — and a touch of Bernabéu magic — to keep their Champions League defense alive.

Manchester United Nears Deal for Osimhen as Napoli Offers Discount In a significant development, Napoli and Manchester United are engaged in advanced negotiations for the transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The Italian club is reportedly willing to offer the Red Devils a discounted fee, potentially giving them an edge over other suitors, including Juventus. Talks Heat Up in London Napoli's director, Giovanni Manna, has traveled to London to discuss the sale of the 26-year-old striker with Manchester United officials. The move comes after Osimhen's loan spell at Galatasaray, with the player expected to depart Napoli permanently this summer. A Star in the Making Victor Osimhen has been making waves in the football world with his impressive skills and goal-scoring ability. The Nigerian striker has been a key player for Napoli, and his departure would be a significant loss for the Italian club. Release Clause Drops to €75m Osimhen's release clause has decreased to €75m (£64m) this summer, but Napoli is open to negotiating a lower fee with Premier League clubs. The club's willingness to offer a discount may be motivated by a desire to avoid strengthening direct Serie A rivals, particularly Juventus. Manchester United's Interest Manchester United has been keen on signing a new striker to bolster their attack, and Osimhen's impressive form has caught their attention. The Red Devils are looking to strengthen their squad, and Osimhen's skills would be a valuable addition to their team. The negotiations between Napoli and Manchester United are ongoing, and a deal could be reached soon. If the transfer goes through, Osimhen would join Manchester United on a permanent deal, marking a new chapter in his career. The football world will be watching closely as this story unfolds.

Inter Milan Edges Bayern 2-1 in Champions League Quarterfinal In a thrilling match, Inter Milan secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg, thanks to Davide Frattesi's 88th-minute winner. The win puts Inter in a favorable position ahead of the second leg at San Siro. First Half: Bayern's Early Pressure The match began with Bayern Munich asserting their dominance, as Harry Kane curled a shot against the post in the 26th minute. However, Inter Milan's defense held firm, and the Italian side capitalized on their first scoring opportunity. In the 38th minute, Marcus Thuram's clever flick set up Lautaro Martínez, who scored with a first-time finish using the outside of his right foot. Bayern Levels the Score Bayern Munich responded strongly after halftime, with Thomas Müller equalizing in the 85th minute. Konrad Laimer's low cross found Müller, who tapped the ball into the net, salvaging a draw for the home team. Frattesi's Match-Winning Strike The tension was palpable as the match entered its final minutes. Inter Milan's persistence paid off when Davide Frattesi scored the winning goal in the 88th minute. Carlos Augusto's cross from the left flank was met by Frattesi, who fired a close-range shot into the net, securing a 2-1 victory for Inter. Post-Match Reactions Inter's coach, Simone Inzaghi, praised his team's resilience and determination, acknowledging that the win is just the first step towards advancing to the semifinals. Goalkeeper Yann Sommer commended his team's efficiency in front of goal and solid defensive performance. What's Next? The second leg of the quarterfinal matchup takes place on April 16 at San Siro, with the winner advancing to face either Barcelona or Borussia Dortmund in the semifinals. Can Inter Milan maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the next round?

Flick Addresses Raphinha's Frustration Ahead of Dortmund Clash Barcelona's manager Hansi Flick addressed the recent controversy surrounding forward Raphinha at a pre-match press conference, ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Borussia Dortmund. The incident in question occurred during Saturday's La Liga draw against Real Betis, where Raphinha was seen expressing his frustration on camera, sparking concerns about the team's dynamics. Flick Sets the Record Straight on Raphinha's Fitness Barcelona's manager Hansi Flick quashed rumors about Raphinha's fitness ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarterfinal match against Borussia Dortmund. Flick confirmed that Raphinha is fully prepared for the game, having received adequate rest and training. Flick Refuses to be Drawn into Registration Issues Flick maintained his focus on the upcoming match, declining to comment on the registration issues surrounding Dani Olmo and Pau Victor. He emphasized that these matters are handled by the club, and his priority is the team's performance on the pitch. Familiar Foe in Nico Kovac Flick will face a familiar opponent in Dortmund's manager Nico Kovac, with whom he has a history. While acknowledging Kovac's strengths, Flick expressed his respect for the man and his team. He noted that Dortmund's recent results have boosted their confidence, and they now play with a renewed sense of purpose. Flick's Assessment of Dortmund's Strengths Flick highlighted Dortmund's speed and attacking prowess, emphasizing that these qualities make them a formidable opponent. He dismissed the notion that last-minute injuries might weaken the team, stating that he prefers to face top-notch opponents. With his team poised to take on a strong Dortmund side, Flick's comments set the tone for what promises to be an intense and closely contested match. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to make their mark on the Champions League quarterfinals.

"Gunners Edge Closer to Semis with Thrilling 3-0 Rout of Real Madrid; Rice's Set-Piece Brilliance Sparks Historic Victory, Lewis-Skelly Stars in Dominant Display" As the final whistle pierced the air, Martin Odegaard's hands clasped his head in stunned amazement, while Thibaut Courtois watched the scene unfold from his knees, his eyes wide with dismay. Meanwhile, Declan Rice sprinted away, his arms raised in jubilation, basking in the euphoria of a night that would be etched in his memory forever. The unlikeliest of heroes, Rice had conjured not one, but two direct free-kicks, each one a masterclass in precision and power. The first, a work of art, curled into the net with the finesse of a maestro, echoing the legendary Roberto Carlos. The second, a shot that defied logic, arced over the wall and into the top corner, leaving the Real Madrid goalkeeper grasping at thin air. As the Emirates Stadium erupted into a frenzy of noise and color, the Arsenal supporters were still reeling from the sheer magnitude of the victory. And then, Mikel Merino delivered the coup de grâce, slotting home the third goal with clinical precision. This was no mere win; it was a demolition, a statement of intent that left the reigning champions reeling. Yet, in the world of football, nothing is ever certain. The second leg looms, a daunting prospect that has even the most confident of teams tempering their celebrations. Carlo Ancelotti's words hung in the air like a challenge, a reminder that for Real Madrid, the tie is never truly over. "It's only half-time," Mikel Arteta cautioned, his eyes gleaming with a fire that burns brighter with each passing victory. As the dust settled, one thing was clear: Arsenal had staked their claim, their voices heard loud and clear across the continent. This was a team that had faced adversity and emerged stronger, their bond forged in the fire of competition. The players, fueled by an unshakeable belief in their manager and themselves, had delivered a performance for the ages. The night was theirs, and the world would never forget it. ARSENAL ON BRINK OF HISTORY: GUNNERS EDGE CLOSER TO SEMIS WITH THRILLING WIN OVER REAL MADRID The stage was set for a titanic clash, and the early going did not disappoint. The air was electric with tension as Arsenal and Real Madrid clashed in a frenetic opening 45 minutes. Jakub Kiwior's near-miss allowed Kylian Mbappe to unleash a potent shot, while Bukayo Saka's errant pass sparked a counter-attack that left the Gunners scrambling. But as the match wore on, Arsenal began to assert their dominance. The return of Saka to the starting lineup proved a masterstroke, injecting a much-needed boost of energy and creativity into the team's attack. His low crosses begged to be converted, and the pressure began to tell. Meanwhile, Real Madrid continued to pose a threat on the break, their lightning-fast counter-attacks leaving the Arsenal defense scrambling to keep pace. Yet, despite the anxious moments, the Gunners held firm, their resolve tested but unbroken. As the teams headed into the halftime break, the mood was decidedly mixed. While Arsenal had dominated possession and created the better chances, Real Madrid's counter-attacks had left them with a spring in their step. The visitors were quietly confident, their eyes fixed firmly on the second half. Mikel Arteta's words still echoed in the minds of his players: learn from last year's mistakes against Bayern Munich, when Arsenal's early dominance ultimately yielded a meager return. The lesson had been learned, and the Gunners were determined to seize the initiative and make their mark on the tie. The question on everyone's lips: would they capitalize on their chances and take a decisive step towards the semis? RICE UNLEASHES MAGIC AS ARSENAL SHOCKS REAL MADRID The warnings were clear: Real Madrid's individual brilliance could turn the tide of the match in an instant. But Arsenal had a secret weapon of their own, one that would prove to be the catalyst for a stunning upset. Declan Rice, the midfielder-turned-attacking-force, unleashed a pair of free-kicks that left the Spanish giants reeling. Rice's transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a defensive midfielder to his current role as a creative force, he has added layers to his game that have made him nearly unstoppable. His ability to strike the ball with precision and power has become a hallmark of his play, and his free-kicks against Real Madrid will be remembered for years to come. But Rice was not the only star of the show. Myles Lewis-Skelly, the teenage sensation, made his mark on the match, showcasing his skills against some of the world's best players. His fearless approach and relentless energy were an inspiration to his teammates, and his contribution to the win cannot be overstated. This was a team effort, a collective triumph that saw Arsenal dominate the proceedings and leave Real Madrid stunned. The statistics tell the story: Rice had more shots than any other player, with five, and more touches in the opposition box, with nine. His work off the ball was equally impressive, as he helped Arsenal press high up the pitch and force errors from their opponents. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Arsenal has arrived on the Champions League scene, and they are here to stay. With players like Rice and Lewis-Skelly leading the charge, the future looks bright for this talented young team. In a stunning display of skill and determination, Arsenal dismantled reigning Champions League winners Real Madrid 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium, leaving the Spanish giants reeling. Myles Lewis-Skelly, the 18-year-old sensation, stole the show with an outstanding performance, making more passes in the final third than any other player bar Martin Odegaard. His fearless approach and exceptional vision allowed him to thread the ball through the lines, seeking out runners and creating scoring opportunities. One of his most telling contributions came when he produced the assist for Arsenal's third goal, finding Mikel Merino with a precise square pass on the edge of the box. However, this was just one of many eye-catching moments from the teenager, who showcased his remarkable talent and maturity. Lewis-Skelly's impressive display was matched by his defensive solidity, as he kept Real Madrid's Rodrygo quiet at left-back and hurdled past challenges with ease. His performance was a testament to his rapid development and his ability to rise to the biggest challenges. Arsenal will now head into the second leg with a significant advantage, carrying the momentum of a 3-0 win into the Bernabeu next week. With this impressive victory, the Gunners have declared themselves a force to be reckoned with on the European stage, and they will be eager to build on this performance in the second leg.