Damian Spellman

Newcastle United have appointed Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach, succeeding Eddie Howe after the club reportedly paid more than £9 million in compensation to Al-Ahli. Jaissle, who previously won consecutive Austrian titles with RB Salzburg and successive Asian Champions League crowns with Al-Ahli, has joined the squad at pre-season camp. He inherits a team facing significant upheaval after Howe’s departure, Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool, and the departures or possible departures of several senior players. Jaissle’s immediate task is to stabilise the squad before Newcastle open the new campaign against Liverpool on August 23.

Newcastle United have officially appointed 38-year-old Matthias Jaissle as head coach following Eddie Howe’s departure. Jaissle, formerly of Al-Ahli and RB Salzburg, has begun work with the squad at a pre-season camp in La Manga. Newcastle reportedly paid more than £9 million in compensation, while Jaissle described joining the club as an honour and praised its history, identity and supporters.

Newcastle United and Liverpool are discussing a joint tribute to Kevin Keegan before their opening Premier League fixture at St James’ Park. Newcastle’s men’s, women’s and Under-21 teams will wear black armbands during pre-season, while additional commemorations will include a minute’s silence, a stadium-screen tribute and consultation with Keegan’s family over a permanent memorial. Keegan, who died aged 75 after a battle with cancer, is being widely remembered across football, with former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson praising his impact, enthusiasm and team-building at Newcastle.

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro has joined Inter Miami as a free agent on a deal running through the end of the 2027 MLS Sprint Season, with an extension option. Major League Soccer is investigating alleged tampering because LA Galaxy held his discovery rights; although Inter Miami and LA Galaxy reached a settlement to enable the transfer, the league probe remains ongoing. Casemiro is awaiting visa approval before joining Lionel Messi at the club.

Inter Miami has completed the signing of former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro on a contract through the end of the 2027 MLS Sprint Season, with an option extending to June 2029 subject to visa approval. Major League Soccer is investigating whether Inter Miami improperly negotiated with Casemiro while his discovery rights were held by LA Galaxy. The clubs have reached a settlement allowing the transfer, but its terms will remain undisclosed until the league review concludes. Casemiro, a five-time Champions League winner and 91-time Brazil international, will join Lionel Messi in Miami but cannot make his debut until his visa is approved.

Alex Ferguson paid tribute to Kevin Keegan following the former Newcastle United manager and player’s death at 75, praising his ability to reinvigorate Newcastle and build what Ferguson called the club’s best-ever team. Ferguson highlighted Keegan’s signings of David Ginola, Faustino Asprilla and Philippe Albert, and recalled the intense 1995–96 title rivalry in which Manchester United overtook Newcastle. He also remembered Keegan’s warmth and lack of resentment, describing a post-season evening when they set their rivalry aside. Tributes also came from Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and former England teammate Trevor Brooking.

Sir Garfield Sobers, the legendary Barbados-born West Indies all-rounder, has died aged 89, prompting tributes from Geoffrey Boycott, Cricket West Indies, Nottinghamshire, England Cricket and the BCCI. Sobers was celebrated for his exceptional batting, bowling, fielding and captaincy, including 93 Test appearances, 8,032 runs, 235 wickets and a world-record 365 against Pakistan. He was also remembered for hitting six sixes in one over for Nottinghamshire and for his broad influence on Caribbean and global cricket.

Scotland and Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon has retired from professional football at 43 after a 24-year career. He earned 84 international caps and played for Hearts, Sunderland and Celtic, winning six league titles, four Scottish Cups and five Scottish League Cups. Despite serious injuries, he repeatedly returned to play and thanked teammates, coaches, medical staff, family, friends and supporters for helping him fulfil his footballing ambitions.

Craig Gordon announced his retirement from professional football at age 43 after earning 84 caps for Scotland and winning multiple domestic titles with Hearts, Sunderland and Celtic. Recently part of Scotland’s World Cup squad, he reflected on his career with gratitude, acknowledging supporters, team‑mates and coaches while highlighting his long connection to Hearts and his resilience through serious injuries.

India moved to the brink of victory in the women’s Test at Lord’s after Yastika Bhatia scored the ground’s first female Test century and led her side to a second‑innings declaration at 347 for seven, setting England a target of 457. England collapsed to 130 for six by stumps, with retiring players Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight dismissed early. Despite resistance from Amy Jones and Mady Villiers, India maintained full control heading into the final day.

Aaron Ramsey has been appointed head coach of Oxford United following the club’s relegation from the Championship. The former Wales captain expressed enthusiasm for the role and emphasised creating a culture of professionalism and high standards. His playing career includes major honours with Arsenal, Juventus and Rangers, and he previously held coaching roles with the Wales national team and Cardiff. Details of his coaching staff will be announced ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Ipswich Town have appointed Gary O’Neil as manager on a three-year contract through summer 2029, replacing Kieran McKenna after his successful promotion campaign. O’Neil, who previously managed Strasbourg, will lead the club into its Premier League return with Tim Jenkins, Neil Critchley and Ed Ames joining his staff. Ipswich’s first league match is scheduled against Sunderland at Portman Road on 22 August.

Ipswich Town have appointed Gary O’Neil as manager on a three-year contract ahead of their return to the Premier League. O’Neil, previously in charge of Strasbourg, succeeds Kieran McKenna, who left after guiding the club to automatic promotion. He will bring Tim Jenkins, Neil Critchley and Ed Ames into his coaching staff. Ipswich’s opening fixtures include home matches against Sunderland and Liverpool, with an away trip to Manchester United.

Ben Stokes took one wicket for 60 runs on his return to Durham, dismissing George Bartlett after Northamptonshire reached 388 for six, led by Ricardo Vasconcelos’s unbeaten 181. Durham chief executive Tim Bostock urged the England and Wales Cricket Board and Independent Cricket Regulator to use a common-sense approach after Stokes and Gus Atkinson breached a team curfew following England’s first-Test win over New Zealand. Stokes may return for England’s third Test, while Durham coach Ryan Campbell said he remained positive, sought teammates’ permission to play and appeared motivated to participate in next year’s Ashes.

Ben Stokes returned to action for Durham against Northamptonshire after being stood down from England's second Test against New Zealand for breaching team protocols. He was warmly applauded by supporters and came close to taking a wicket with his fourth delivery, but Ben McKinney dropped the catch. Stokes completed six overs for 16 runs without a wicket before lunch, while Northamptonshire reached 91 without loss. The Press Association reported that he could return for England's third Test at Trent Bridge as speculation about his captaincy or retirement eased. Gus Atkinson, also under investigation, took two wickets for Surrey against Glamorgan.

Ben Stokes reported to Durham ahead of a four-day County Championship match against Northamptonshire after being stood down from England's second Test against New Zealand, alongside Gus Atkinson, while an alleged breach of team protocols is investigated. Despite speculation that Stokes could relinquish the England captaincy or retire, reports suggest he may return to the England squad for the third Test at Trent Bridge.

Bernardo Silva has agreed to join Real Madrid on a two-year contract after his Manchester City deal expires at the end of June. The Portugal international is leaving City after nine years, having joined from Monaco in 2017 and won 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League.

Bernardo Silva has agreed a two‑year contract with Real Madrid after leaving Manchester City upon the expiry of his deal. The Portugal midfielder departs after nine years and 20 trophies with City, joining Madrid as a free agent in a move long linked following his April announcement. His achievements, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League win, were highlighted alongside a farewell message to supporters.

Anthony Gordon completed a transfer from Newcastle United to Barcelona on a five‑year contract for a reported £69.3 million. The move follows a strong season in which he scored 10 Champions League goals and contributed to Newcastle’s recent success. His switch comes ahead of England’s World Cup campaign and raises questions about Marcus Rashford’s future at Barcelona.

Anthony Gordon has completed a five-year move from Newcastle United to Barcelona in a transfer reportedly worth £69.3 million. The fee would give Newcastle a significant profit after they signed him from Everton for £45 million in 2023. Gordon leaves despite having four years remaining on his Newcastle contract, following a period in which he helped the club win the Carabao Cup and qualify for the Champions League. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe praised Gordon’s development and contribution, while the move may affect the future of Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford at Barcelona.

Barcelona have reportedly offered around £70 million for Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon, whose club values him at approximately £75 million. Bayern Munich are also pursuing the England international, while Liverpool remain long-term admirers. Gordon has been central to Newcastle’s recent success, including their 2024–25 Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League qualification, but his influence has dipped this season despite scoring 17 goals. Eddie Howe’s decision to omit him after an injury has intensified speculation that he could leave this summer.

Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson urged his squad to focus on football and said winning against Israel would be the best response to the controversy surrounding their Nations League fixtures. He acknowledged that the players and staff were unfairly caught in the dispute and reiterated his opposition to Israel’s participation, previously linked to its military actions in Gaza. Protests have raised the possibility that the Dublin fixture could be moved from the Aviva Stadium, but the Football Association of Ireland remains committed to staging both matches. Hallgrimsson warned that losing home advantage would reduce Ireland’s chances of success.

Barcelona and Bayern Munich are reportedly in discussions with Newcastle United over a potential move for forward Anthony Gordon. Newcastle are said to value the 24-year-old at about £75 million, while Liverpool remain long-term admirers. Gordon scored 17 goals during Newcastle's successful 2024–25 campaign, which included Carabao Cup victory and Champions League qualification, but his omission from Eddie Howe's starting XI has intensified speculation that he could leave. He is also expected to compete with Marcus Rashford for England's left-wing place.

Barcelona have joined Bayern Munich and Liverpool in showing interest in Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon. Newcastle could demand substantially more than the £45 million paid for him in 2023, with his valuation reportedly around £75 million. Gordon was influential in Newcastle's Carabao Cup success and Champions League qualification, but his role diminished after transfer speculation intensified and Eddie Howe left him out of the squad after injury. He remains part of England's World Cup plans, where he is expected to compete with Marcus Rashford for a starting role.

Nathan Collins says Republic of Ireland players must trust the FAI and the Irish Government as controversy grows over upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel. Despite protests and calls for a boycott, the matches are set to proceed on neutral ground and later in Dublin. Collins notes players may discuss the situation and support any individual who chooses to take a stand. He also reflects on Brentford’s strong Premier League season and Ireland’s recent near‑miss in World Cup qualification, highlighting the team’s renewed connection with fans.

Pep Guardiola says his biggest regret as Manchester City manager was not giving goalkeeper Joe Hart a fair chance to compete for his place when he arrived in 2016, acknowledging he was not sufficiently fair in his decision and apologising if it caused distress.

Pep Guardiola says his deepest regret as Manchester City manager is not giving Joe Hart an opportunity to prove himself after Guardiola replaced him soon after arriving in 2016. Hart was loaned to Torino, with Claudio Bravo and later Ederson taking the goalkeeper role. Guardiola acknowledged that the decision may have been unfair, said he had always tried to manage excluded players with humanity and respect, and apologized if he failed to do so.

Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg reflects on an eventful first season in England as his side prepares to face Hull City in the Championship play-off final at Wembley. Southampton’s punishment over the Spygate scandal revived Middlesbrough’s promotion hopes after their semi-final defeat, but the team must now recover its focus despite a three-match winless run. Hellberg is unconcerned by Middlesbrough’s record of five previous Wembley defeats and expects a competitive match against a Hull side that is unbeaten in three games.

Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg says the fallout from the Southampton spying controversy has left him unable to sleep for around a week and a half. Southampton were removed from the Championship play-off final after an independent commission found that club staff had observed Middlesbrough training sessions, while an appeal was dismissed. Middlesbrough were reinstated and will face Hull City at Wembley, with promotion and an estimated £200 million financial reward at stake, despite concerns over squad fitness and morale.

Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg says the Southampton ‘Spygate’ controversy has left him unable to sleep for more than a week. Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs after Middlesbrough complained that a Southampton staff member observed their training, while an appeal against the ruling was dismissed. Middlesbrough consequently advanced to the Wembley final against Hull City, with an estimated £200 million at stake. Hellberg sympathises with Southampton’s supporters and uninvolved players, as well as fans affected by the uncertainty, while preparing a squad that has struggled to train and may be without midfielder Hayden Hackney.

Jose Mourinho is reportedly set to return to Real Madrid as head coach, replacing interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa after Xabi Alonso's dismissal and subsequent appointment at Chelsea. The move would come 13 years after Mourinho left Madrid and follows the club's two trophyless seasons and 11-point deficit to La Liga champions Barcelona. A modest release clause in Mourinho's Benfica contract reportedly made the appointment inexpensive. During his previous Madrid tenure from 2010 to 2013, he won La Liga with a record 100 points and the Copa del Rey.

José Mourinho is reportedly set to return as Real Madrid head coach 13 years after leaving the club. He would replace interim manager Álvaro Arbeloa after Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, with president Florentino Pérez seeking to restore Real Madrid’s domestic and Champions League competitiveness following two trophy-less seasons and repeated quarter-final exits. Mourinho previously won La Liga and the Copa del Rey during his 2010–2013 tenure and is reportedly able to leave Benfica through a modest release clause.

West Ham moved closer to Premier League relegation after a 3–1 defeat at Newcastle. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo accepted that supporters were justified in chanting that the players were not fit to wear the shirt, and urged the team to finish the season with greater dignity and respect. West Ham could be relegated if Tottenham beat Chelsea, while a final home match against Leeds remains their last opportunity to avoid the drop.

Newcastle defeated West Ham 3–1 through two goals from Will Osula and an early strike by Nick Woltemade, leaving West Ham on the brink of Premier League relegation. Taty Castellanos briefly revived the visitors with a spectacular goal, but Newcastle controlled most of the match and held on despite late pressure. West Ham could be relegated if Tottenham win at Chelsea, while manager Nuno Espirito Santo acknowledged the team's poor performance and promised a stronger showing against Leeds.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has acknowledged that Anthony Gordon may have played his final match for the club as Bayern Munich reportedly pursue the England international. Gordon has missed Newcastle’s last four matches after a hip-flexor injury, and Howe said future planning had influenced his absence, while insisting he would select Gordon if it were best for the team. Gordon has scored 39 goals in 152 Newcastle appearances since joining from Everton in 2023. Newcastle face West Ham in their penultimate Premier League match, with Joelinton carrying a thigh injury, while Kieran Trippier is set to make his final St James’ Park appearance before leaving when his contract expires.

Middlesbrough player Luke Ayling has told the Football Association that he does not wish to pursue his allegation that Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis made a discriminatory remark referencing his stammer during a Championship play-off semi-final. The FA has therefore closed the matter. Southampton remains under greater pressure over separate EFL charges alleging that it spied on a Middlesbrough training session. An independent commission hearing could impose sanctions ranging from a warning to expulsion or a points deduction, potentially affecting Southampton’s Premier League standings if the club wins promotion.

Luke Ayling has told the Football Association that he will not pursue an allegation that Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis made a discriminatory reference to his stammer, prompting the FA to close the matter. Southampton continues to face more serious English Football League charges over alleged spying on a Middlesbrough training session, with possible sanctions ranging from a warning to expulsion and potentially a points penalty if the club is promoted. Southampton is preparing for the play-off final while awaiting the timing of the independent commission hearing.

Southampton advanced to the Championship play-off final with an extra-time win over Middlesbrough amid an ongoing spying investigation involving alleged unauthorised filming at their opponents’ training ground. Referees’ chief Howard Webb defended VAR’s decision to disallow a late West Ham equaliser against Arsenal, calling the foul on goalkeeper David Raya clear. Arsenal suffered a major setback as defender Ben White was ruled out for the remainder of the season with a significant knee injury. Upcoming fixtures include Manchester City’s crucial Premier League match against Crystal Palace and decisive Scottish Premiership games involving Hearts and Celtic.

Liverpool unveiled the Forever 20 sculpture at Anfield to honour Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who died in a car crash in 2024. The memorial features symbolic design elements, including Jota’s retired number 20 and Silva’s number 30, and reflects Jota’s impact during his five seasons with the club, including the 2024–25 Premier League title win.

Liverpool Football Club has announced the Forever 20 memorial sculpture at Anfield to honour Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who died in a car crash in Spain on 3 July. The sculpture, to be placed on 97 Avenue, incorporates Jota’s heart-shaped goal celebration, lyrics from a supporters’ chant, and displays Jota’s retired number 20 and Silva’s number 30 from different angles. An unveiling date has not yet been announced.

Eddie Howe says Newcastle United’s majority owner, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, remains committed to making the club a Premier League powerhouse despite its decision to stop funding LIV Golf after the 2026 season. Howe’s review meeting with PIF chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan included difficult questions about Newcastle’s poor season, but he said the club’s long-term ambitions were unchanged. Newcastle sit 14th after nine defeats in 12 league matches, while Howe’s future continues to attract speculation. Joelinton is available for the Brighton match and Anthony Gordon could return from injury.

Eddie Howe is due to meet Newcastle United’s senior hierarchy for a planned end-of-season review amid growing speculation about his future. Newcastle sit 14th in the Premier League after five successive defeats and nine losses in their last 12 league matches, leaving European qualification highly unlikely. Howe’s previous successes, including avoiding relegation, winning the club’s first major domestic trophy in 70 years and reaching the Champions League twice, may preserve his position despite the disappointing campaign. The meeting will also address recruitment, lost Champions League revenue, domestic and European spending regulations, and longer-term plans for a new training ground and stadium redevelopment or replacement.

Nottingham Forest moved eight points clear of the Premier League relegation zone with a 5-0 victory at Sunderland. Trai Hume’s own goal began a first-half collapse, followed by goals from Chris Wood, Morgan Gibbs-White, Igor Jesus and Elliot Anderson. Sunderland’s second-half effort was limited, with a disallowed goal and a late save denying consolation, while Forest extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to eight matches.

Nottingham Forest moved eight points clear of the Premier League relegation zone with a 5-0 victory at Sunderland. Forest scored four times in a dominant first half through Igor Jesus, Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White before Elliot Anderson added a fifth late on. Manager Vitor Pereira praised the team’s tactical discipline, pressing, set-piece work and clean sheet, but insisted four remaining matches meant safety was not yet secured. Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris described the defeat as painful and unacceptable while acknowledging that his side had to improve.

Nottingham Forest defeated Sunderland 5–0 in a dominant Premier League performance, scoring four times during a six-minute first-half spell before Elliot Anderson added a fifth. Morgan Gibbs-White inspired the victory, which extended Forest’s unbeaten run to eight matches and opened an eight-point gap over 18th-placed Tottenham, easing the club’s relegation concerns. Sunderland suffered their heaviest defeat since returning to the top flight, with their defensive display heavily criticized.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says his belief in himself and his staff remains firm despite an eighth defeat in 11 Premier League matches and a fifth loss in six home games. Newcastle lost 2–1 to Bournemouth after goals from Marcus Tavernier and Adrien Truffert, with Will Osula briefly equalising. Howe acknowledged that the team and coaching staff must improve their performances, while Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola looked ahead to a possible European push in his final five matches before leaving the club at the end of the season.

Bournemouth defeated Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park, increasing pressure on Eddie Howe after Newcastle suffered an eighth loss in 11 league matches. Marcus Tavernier opened the scoring, Will Osula equalised after Bruno Guimaraes returned from a 12-game absence, and Adrien Truffert scored the late winner. Bournemouth generally looked the more accomplished side, while Newcastle’s defeat further damaged their hopes of European qualification and left Howe’s future subject to review by the club’s owners.

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger died aged 48 in a road accident in Austria after his car reportedly collided with a train at a level crossing in Nussdorf am Haunsberg. Arsenal paid tribute to the Austrian international, who won the 1998 double with the club and earned 33 caps for Austria. Manninger also played for Juventus, Liverpool and Torino.

Bayern Munich defeated 10-man Real Madrid 4–3 on the night and 6–4 on aggregate to reach the Champions League semi-finals against Paris Saint-Germain. Real Madrid twice took the lead through Arda Güler, while Aleksandar Pavlović and Harry Kane restored Bayern's advantage before Kylian Mbappé levelled. Eduardo Camavinga's late dismissal triggered Madrid's collapse, with Luis Díaz and Michael Olise scoring within the final minutes to secure Bayern's first two-leg victory over Real since 2012.

Bayern Munich defeated 10-man Real Madrid 4–3 in the Champions League quarter-final second leg, winning 6–4 on aggregate and advancing to a semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. Harry Kane scored his 50th goal of the season, while Luis Diaz and Michael Olise added late goals for Bayern. Real Madrid’s Arda Guler scored twice, including a free-kick, but Eduardo Camavinga was sent off during the match and Guler was dismissed after the final whistle.

Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge suffered a major setback after a 2–1 home defeat to Bournemouth, with Mikel Arteta calling the result a “big punch in the face.” Manchester City can reduce the gap by beating Chelsea, although Arsenal still lead by nine points with City holding two games in hand. Bayern Munich strengthened their Bundesliga position with a 5–0 win over St Pauli, setting a club scoring record of 105 league goals despite Harry Kane being rested. Bayern moved 12 points clear of Borussia Dortmund with five matches remaining.

Eddie Howe has reaffirmed his full commitment to Newcastle United despite mounting pressure after a derby defeat to Sunderland and a 7-2 Champions League exit to Barcelona. He says he is focused on the club's remaining seven Premier League matches and emphasizes the importance of support and strong working relationships. Chief executive David Hopkinson has given Howe a cautious endorsement while warning that Newcastle may need player trading to comply with financial rules. Howe acknowledged that the club's progress has exceeded expectations and said its long-term ambitions will require it to outperform its budget.

Eddie Howe maintains full commitment to his role as Newcastle head coach despite increased scrutiny following recent defeats to Sunderland and Barcelona. With seven Premier League games remaining, he aims to guide the club toward European qualification amid warnings from chief executive David Hopkinson about the need for future player trading. Howe emphasizes long‑term faith in the club’s direction, the importance of support and strong working relationships, and his priority of putting Newcastle United’s interests above personal concerns.

Leicester City's appeal against a six-point deduction for breaching EFL profit and sustainability rules was rejected by an independent board, leaving the club deeper in relegation danger in the Championship. Currently 22nd and one point from safety, the club says it will focus on its remaining matches.

Leicester City’s appeal against a six-point deduction for breaching the EFL’s profit and sustainability rules has been rejected by an independent appeal board. The board dismissed the club’s challenges to both the commission’s authority and the severity of the sanction, while also rejecting the Premier League’s request for an additional penalty over late annual accounts. Leicester are 22nd in the Championship, one point from safety with five matches remaining, but have played one more game than Portsmouth, increasing the threat of relegation.

Fans travelling to the 2026 World Cup in the United States face steep additional costs, including an $80 return train fare to the Boston stadium compared with the usual $20 fare and parking from $175. Supporters’ groups say inflated ticket prices and transport costs could push fans into debt and distance football from ordinary supporters. The MBTA rejects the criticism, saying match-day tickets cover its entire commuter rail network and that expanded services will transport up to 20,000 people for each Boston match. Scottish supporters are considering school-bus rentals as a cheaper alternative.

Bernardo Silva appears set to leave Manchester City at the end of the season after assistant manager Pep Lijnders suggested the midfielder has only six weeks remaining with the club. Manchester City will face Championship side Southampton in the FA Cup semi-finals, while Leeds United meet Chelsea after defeating West Ham on penalties. Arsenal, still recovering from their cup exit and a recent Carabao Cup final defeat, travel to Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. Coventry lead the Easter Monday Championship schedule by 11 points.

Southampton will meet Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals after defeating Arsenal, while Leeds United will face Chelsea. Leeds advanced by beating West Ham United 4-3 on penalties after surrendering a two-goal lead and conceding twice in added time. The semi-finals are scheduled for 25 and 26 April at Wembley.

Wrexham AFC pledged to ban supporters responsible for sexist online comments following the women’s team’s Adran Premier title win, condemning the abuse and reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity. The club emphasized support for players and staff while criticizing organizations that portray Welsh women’s football negatively. The men’s team continues to compete for a Championship play-off position under co-owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds.

Manchester United goalkeeping scout Tony Coton praised Senne Lammens’ strong start at the club, predicting he could become one of the world’s best if he continues to develop. Lammens joined from Royal Antwerp and impressed with a clean-sheet debut, securing a place in the team. Coton highlighted his work ethic and unique qualities while noting areas for improvement and recalling identifying him as a standout youth player in 2019.

Ireland played out a goalless draw with North Macedonia in a friendly marked by Troy Parrott having two goals ruled out for offside and Seamus Coleman receiving an ovation that may signal his final appearance. Ireland created the better chances, including Parrott hitting the post and several efforts from Finn Azaz, but failed to convert. Late substitutions disrupted the rhythm, and a missed opportunity by Johnny Kenny ended the match without a breakthrough as Ireland looked ahead to future fixtures and qualification campaigns.

Heimir Hallgrimsson urged veteran defender Seamus Coleman to continue his international career after receiving an ovation during Ireland’s goalless draw with North Macedonia. Despite limited playing time at Everton, Coleman remains influential for Ireland, and Hallgrimsson hopes he stays on through Euro 2028. Coleman plans to reflect on his future following recent World Cup play-off disappointment, while Ireland ended the international window frustrated after disallowed goals and missed late chances.

Newcastle United chief executive David Hopkinson says the club is not currently considering replacing Eddie Howe, but he declines to guarantee that Howe will remain beyond the season. Newcastle sit 12th in the Premier League after disappointing domestic and European results, and failure to qualify for Europe could affect finances and player retention. Hopkinson says any future departures will happen on Newcastle’s terms, while describing Alexander Isak’s sale as commercially positive. The club reported a £34.7 million post-tax profit and record turnover of £335.3 million for the year to June 2025, partly driven by higher commercial revenue. Its stadium has also been sold to its parent company and leased back, potentially limiting the club’s direct exposure to future redevelopment costs.

The Republic of Ireland were eliminated from the World Cup qualification campaign after surrendering a 2–0 lead against the Czech Republic, drawing 2–2 and losing 4–3 on penalties in Prague. Heimir Hallgrimsson described the immediate emotion as “pain” but also expressed pride in a team that had recently beaten Armenia, Portugal and Hungary. The Czech Republic, managed by Miroslav Koubek in his first match in charge, advanced to a decisive clash with Denmark. Ireland also lost Sammie Szmodics to a head injury, although he was expected to return home.

The Czech Republic defeated Ireland 4–3 on penalties after their World Cup play-off semi-final finished 2–2. Ireland led 2–0 within 23 minutes through a Troy Parrott penalty and a Czech own goal, but Patrik Schick’s penalty and Ladislav Krejci’s late equaliser forced extra time. Finn Azaz and Alan Browne missed for Ireland in the shootout, while Jan Kliment scored the decisive penalty to send the Czech Republic through to face Denmark in the final.

The Czech Republic defeated the Republic of Ireland 4–3 on penalties after a 2–2 draw to reach the World Cup play-off final against Denmark. Ireland took a 2–0 lead through Troy Parrott’s penalty and a Matej Kovar own goal, but Patrik Schick’s penalty and Ladislav Krejci’s late header restored parity. Czech goalkeeper Kovar saved attempts from Finn Azaz and Alan Browne before Jan Kliment converted the decisive spot-kick, ending Ireland’s hopes of reaching its first World Cup since 2002.

Czech football authorities have opened 47 disciplinary proceedings against players, club officials, referees and member clubs, primarily over suspected bribery and match-fixing. Many players have been provisionally suspended following police raids, reportedly focused on the Moravia region. The FACR credited its integrity officer and cooperation with Czech police, while reports indicated that Europol, Interpol and UEFA’s anti-match-fixing unit were involved. The scandal emerged just days before the Czech Republic’s World Cup play-off against Ireland in Prague.

Eddie Howe dismisses claims that Bruno Guimaraes is in talks to join Manchester United, calling the rumours disrespectful and untrue. He emphasises the midfielder’s commitment to Newcastle while criticising the timing of the speculation as the club prepares for an important derby following a recent heavy defeat. Howe hopes the upcoming match can serve as a turning point in the season and says he will not use past losses to pressure the squad.

Eddie Howe dismissed reports that Bruno Guimaraes is in talks with Manchester United, calling the speculation disrespectful and unfounded. Guimaraes, currently recovering from injury, remains committed to Newcastle. The rumours come as the club seeks to recover from a heavy defeat to Barcelona and prepare for a high‑pressure derby against Sunderland, a fixture still shadowed by December’s painful loss. Howe emphasized maintaining a positive mindset for his players and hopes Sandro Tonali will be fit to return.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is urging his players to quickly move past their 7-2 defeat by Barcelona, which produced an 8-3 aggregate Champions League exit, and focus on Sunday’s derby against Sunderland. Newcastle are seeking revenge after losing 1-0 at Sunderland in December, while Howe stressed the fixture’s importance to the city and supporters. Sandro Tonali is a doubt with a groin injury, and Howe criticised Newcastle’s defending, particularly the goals conceded from set pieces.

Newcastle United were eliminated from the Champions League after a 7–2 defeat by Barcelona at the Nou Camp, losing 8–3 on aggregate. Eddie Howe said Newcastle’s strong first-half performance was undermined by defensive errors, the penalty before half-time and Sandro Tonali’s injury, but vowed to guide the club back to Europe’s premier competition. Barcelona advanced after a dominant second half, with Robert Lewandowski scoring twice, while Newcastle now turn to a must-win derby against Sunderland.

Barcelona defeated Newcastle United 7-2 on the night and 8-3 on aggregate to reach the Champions League quarter-finals. Raphinha opened the scoring before Anthony Elanga's two goals twice brought Newcastle level, but Barcelona regained the lead through Lamine Yamal's stoppage-time penalty. Fermin Lopez, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha added second-half goals as Newcastle's defensive errors led to a heavy defeat.

Hansi Flick says Barcelona will be his final managerial club as president Joan Laporta prepares to renew his contract. Flick, however, is focused on Barcelona's Champions League last-16 second leg against Newcastle United, who impressed in the first match despite losing 2-1. He warns that Newcastle's pressing, pace and physicality will demand an almost perfect performance, while Pau Cubarsi says Barcelona must improve their attacking tempo.

Eddie Howe downplays the magnitude of Newcastle’s Champions League second leg against Barcelona, stressing standard preparation despite the high stakes after a 1-1 first‑leg draw. He highlights growing team confidence while acknowledging Barcelona’s quality. Kieran Trippier reflects on the team’s unexpected rise from relegation danger to competing for a quarter‑final place and stresses maintaining high standards.

Eddie Howe defended Anthony Gordon after criticism from Alan Shearer and other pundits questioning why the forward did not start Newcastle’s Champions League match against Barcelona despite appearing on the bench. Howe explained that Gordon had been ill and missed training, leading to a medical decision not to start him, though he was willing to play. Gordon came on as a substitute in a match that ended 1-1. Howe praised Gordon’s character and form as he considers whether to include him against Chelsea or save him for the return fixture at the Nou Camp.

Newcastle drew 1-1 with Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League last‑16 tie after Harvey Barnes scored late and Lamine Yamal equalised with a stoppage‑time penalty. Eddie Howe voiced confidence in his squad’s ability to compete with Europe’s best, while Hansi Flick acknowledged Barcelona’s struggles during parts of the match but was satisfied with the defensive display. The tie remains finely balanced heading into the second leg.

Newcastle United were denied a crucial Champions League first‑leg win when Lamine Yamal’s stoppage‑time penalty earned Barcelona a 1‑1 draw at St James’ Park. Eddie Howe expressed frustration over the late equaliser but insisted his team proved they can compete with Europe’s best. Harvey Barnes had given Newcastle an 86th‑minute lead before a foul on Dani Olmo led to the decisive penalty. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick acknowledged his side struggled but said he was satisfied with the result heading into the second leg at the Nou Camp.