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of the armory There has been another layer of intrigue in the preparations for the Champions League final after Martin Zubimendi discussed his recent spell on the bench.

The midfielder has been one of Arsenal’s most important players this season. After arriving from Real Sociedad last summer, Zubimendi quickly became a central figure in Arsenal’s Premier League-winning campaign.

However, ahead of Saturday’s final against PSG in Budapest, the Spain international admitted his recent lack of form may not be accidental.

Before Arsenal’s final league game against Crystal Palace, Zubimendi had played four consecutive matches as a substitute.

Zubimendi remains calm on Arsenal role

Talking to Spanish outlet MarkHe admitted that the intensity of the season had hit him harder than anything he had experienced in Spain.

“It’s been a very challenging season, a long one, in which I’ve put in efforts I haven’t put in in my career, and it’s certainly had an impact on me,” He said.

Nevertheless, the midfielder made it clear that he now feels physically ready again.

Asked if there should be concerns ahead of the World Cup, Martin Zubimendi replied: “No, no, I’m fine.”

Despite the recent benching, Zubimendi insisted he is confident of his place in the team. It is worth remembering that he was Recently linked with a move to Real Madrid.

“I always see myself in the team, the second thing is what happens then,” he explained. “Lately, I haven’t been playing as much, but I’m ready to go out and play. The overall balance of the Premier League season has been very good, and I won’t start thinking negatively because of these bench appearances.”

When pressed on whether he expected to start the final himself, the midfielder laughed before giving a diplomatic answer.

“I don’t know! Ask sir,” He joked.

Zubimendi still made 46 appearances in all competitions this season, contributing four goals and seven assists. And when it comes to scoring in finals, his career record is quite good.

Arsenal’s confidence before PSG match

Martin Zubimendi also spoke confidently about Arsenal’s mentality ahead of facing PSG.

“We will enter the final with enthusiasm and confidence,” He said. “Winning the Premier League gives us extra incentive to reach such a beautiful final. I have seen Arsenal endure many years without a win, and now that past has finally been broken.”

The midfielder believes that mentality and composure will be decisive against the French team.

“Confidence, knowing how to handle the occasion, and defuse the situation,” When asked what difference it could make in the final, he said. “We have our weapons and we will try to make the most of them.”

Zubimendi also looked relaxed about Arsenal entering the match as outsiders.

“Maybe we’re not the favourites, but once you’re on the field it doesn’t matter who the favorite is.”

defensive strength appreciated

Martin Zubimendi gave particular praise to Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s defensive structure.

“Sometimes it feels like you need to win titles to get credit, but I think Mikel was already among the top coaches,” he explained. “Winning takes you even higher and shows the whole process he has created at the club.”

Asked whether Arsenal were stronger defensively or offensively, the Spaniard highlighted the team’s balance, emphasizing their defensive consistency.

“I think it’s a very complete team, but where it really stands out is defensively,” He said. “The number of clean sheets we have is incredible and this is even more remarkable.”

While questions remain as to whether Zubimendi will start against PSG, there is no doubt that he has become one of the foundations of Arteta’s team during a transformative season at the Emirates.

of west ham Transfer opportunities are already beginning to arise for clubs across Europe. Porto are now being linked with a move for El Hadji Malik Diouf.

The 21-year-old left-back only arrived at the London club last summer. However, with the Hammers relegated to the Championship under Nuno Espirito Santo, there is growing expectation that a number of players could leave this summer.

portuguese newspaper morning mail The report is attentive to the situation in Porto Diouf. They are ready to move forward when the circumstances become favourable.

During this time, record West Ham’s financial situation is said to be playing a major role in the increased interest in the Senegal international.

The defender was signed from Slavia Prague a year ago for around £18.5m (€22m). West Ham are now trying to recoup that investment while reshaping the squad ahead of life in the Championship.

Porto saw opportunity after relegation

Senegal Outlet senego States are actively preparing themselves for the summer stay in Porto. The Portuguese team is to play Champions League football next season. Furthermore, they are keeping a close eye on the left-back market despite already having Francisco Moura and Jaidou Sanusi in the squad.

That situation may still change. Portuguese reports suggest that Porto is open to a sale in the event that it would make room for new arrivals.

El Hadji Malik Diouf’s profile also fits what Porto typically look for in the market – young, athletic and with potential for future development. The left-back made 34 appearances for West Ham this season and provided five assists despite the club’s difficult campaign.

His offensive output remains one of the main attractions. Diouf averaged regular minutes under Nuno Espirito Santo and quickly established himself after coming from Czech football.

what happens next

West Ham’s financial pressures are now becoming a central part of the story.

Reports from Portugal emphasize the need for larger sales after repeated demotions. This is expected to impact a number of areas of the team during the summer period.

Diouf still has four years left on his contract, so West Ham are under no pressure to immediately accept a price-cutting offer. Nevertheless, Porto believe the current situation offers them a realistic opportunity to test the waters.

Furthermore, Diouf has just been called up by Senegal for the 2026 World Cup, and a strong performance there could easily increase both his value and the number of clubs pursuing him this summer.

tottenham Players are still getting used to life under Roberto De Zerbi, but Benfica goalkeeper Anatoly Trubin has already offered a detailed glimpse of what it’s really like to work with the Italian.

And judging by the Ukrainian’s words, the current Spurs manager makes a very strong impression on his players.

talking to to ballThe 24-year-old reflected on his season under De Zerbi at Shakhtar Donetsk in 2021/22. The Italian has clearly changed the way he looks at football.

Trubin described De Zerbi in one word: “crazy.”

However this was not a criticism. Quite the opposite.

Trubin explains the de Zerbi effect

Anatoly Trubin repeated many times that De Zerbi changed his understanding of football.

“He opened my eyes to another way of playing, even for me, as a goalkeeper. He wants everyone to know their role.” he explained.

“We still ask ourselves how we played football before him, because he opened a new way of playing for us.” He said.

The Italian has built his reputation around structured possession football, aggressive build-up play and demanding positional responsibilities. Goalkeepers become part of the build-up phase rather than simple shot stoppers.

For that reason, it’s especially interesting to hear such strong praise from a goalkeeper.

Trubin then also made it clear that he would welcome another opportunity to work with him, along the lines of something that would inevitably attract attention in North London.

“He can still teach me a lot,” The goalkeeper admitted that before answering whether he would like to move to England.

“There is no player in the world who does not want to play in the Premier League, but I have to continue to work hard.”

For now, Trubin says he’s happy in Lisbon, and touts its benefits “Ten Months of the Sun”. Nevertheless, the overall tone of the interview was extremely positive whenever De Zerbi’s name came up.

Could Tottenham finally take a look at him?

It is expected that Tottenham will make a decision in line with the target this summer.

Interest in Guglielmo Vicario remains and may not last forever, while Antonin Kinski still has to prove he can become a long-term No. 1 at Premier League level. This naturally makes the Trubin angle interesting.

The Ukrainian already understands the demands of De Zerbi better than most goalkeepers on the market. At 24, he also fits the profile that Tottenham usually target – young enough for development, but already experienced at a high level.

His figures have been strong this season too. In Liga Portugal, Trubin conceded only 20 goals in 32 matches and kept 13 clean sheets. Benfica allows a goal with him every 144 minutes, while the goals he concedes per 90 minutes is 0.63.

His shot blocking numbers are also impressive. Trubin saved 74 of the 98 shots he faced, giving him a save percentage of 75.51%.

Those statistics help explain why Benfica view him as one of Portugal’s most valuable goalkeepers. Manchester City were linked with them Before stepping in for Gianluigi Donnarumma. That’s why their stocks are high.

At present there does not seem to be anything to suggest that Tottenham are actively pursuing him. However, after such glowing comments about De Zerbi, and with uncertainty surrounding Spurs’ goalkeeping situation, Trubin suddenly feels like a profile worth watching if Tottenham are to remain in the Premier League.

bournemouth Forward Ryan has opened up more about the stormy months that have seen him transform from a budding talent at Vasco to a Brazil international who has quickly adapted to Premier League football.

The 19-year-old has already become one of Bournemouth’s most famous players After registering five goals and two assists in his first 13 appearances for the club.

His pace, direct running and physical profile helped him quickly settle in England, while his form also earned him first senior call-up In the Brazil national team under the leadership of Carlo Ancelotti.

Now, in A New interview with UOLRyan has reflected on the move, the role of a former manager in his career and the feelings surrounding the Brazil call-up.

Bournemouth project convinces Ryan

Speaking while showing off Bournemouth’s training facilities, the youngster admitted that everything happened very quickly after Vasco’s Copa do Brasil final.

“When it all ended after the Copa do Brazil final, I didn’t know what would happen next in my life.”

Ryan revealed that manager Fernando Diniz wanted him to stay at Vasco. However, the Bournemouth project ultimately changed the direction of his career.

“When we came back from the break, Diniz asked me to stay, He said. “But when Bournemouth arrived, there was Tiago [Pinto] There, who is truly a great and special person. He showed us the project and I liked it very much.

The Brazilian also made it clear how comfortable he already feels at the club.

“As you can see here, I am very happy. This has been a very important moment for me, not only for me but also for my family,” He said.

He also gave a glimpse of his training program.

“During the week, when we have a whole week without matches, we only train in the morning. We report at 9:15 am and training starts at 11 am because we have pre-activation work before that. Most of the time it is always in the morning.”

Diniz’s influence is still strong

Ryan gets emotional while discussing the importance of his former manager Fernando Diniz In his development.

“That’s incredible,” Further said. “He still calls me almost every day if it’s up to him. He’s a very special person, someone who helped me a lot and still helps me. We talk all the time.”

The Bournemouth attacker also admitted that Diniz played a decisive role in changing the direction of his career.

“Yes, he changed my life,” Ryan explained. At the same time, the young player stressed that a change in his own mentality during his final period at Vasco was also important.

“I worked my way out on the pitch as well. At Vasco I think I changed my mentality very, very quickly.”

This mentality has clearly applied in his early Premier League months.

what happens next

Ryan’s trajectory continues to rise rapidly. Just months after leaving Vasco, he is adapting to the Premier League, Attracting interest from elite European clubs And becoming part of Brazil’s senior setup.

If Bournemouth’s unbeaten run continues and Ryan continues to take on more responsibility, the hype around him will only increase.

Recent reports are clearing the way for a monster trade that has Kevin Durant returning to the Golden State Warriors and Jimmy Butler returning to the Houston Rockets.

On Friday night, the Rockets saw their promising season come to a very disappointing end with a Game 6 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. What made their elimination more troubling is that they could not beat a Lakers team that was without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves for most of the series.

Still, this shouldn’t come as a complete shock. Something was going wrong with the Rockets team for several months. And it seemed like it all started with All-Star Weekend drama amid speculation that Durant had a Burner X account where he mocked his Houston teammates.

Most believed it was a foolish situation that would be quickly forgotten in the locker room. However, a new report from The Athletic’s William Guillory and Sam Amick adds to the debate that the All-Star Game allegations were a problem in the locker room and worsened because they were never formally addressed by the future Hall of Famer.

“Multiple league sources with close ties to Rockets players indicated that the social media situation was a significant distraction that was never resolved internally,” the report reveals. “…Privately, league sources said [Durant’s] The teammates agreed to keep the matter at home while they focused on basketball. It is unclear whether Durant ever made it clear to his associates whether the account was his or not.

Should the Houston Rockets consider trading Kevin Durant this summer?

All of this begs the question: Should the Rockets trade Durant this summer because he seems like a bad mix on a team that was on a massive upward trend before he arrived a year ago? The Guillory and Amick report provides reasons why this is unlikely. They gave him a waiver on the extension and opted to come to Houston. Plus, when Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams suffered season-ending injuries, the Rockets probably always had a ceiling.

Still, there have been major body language problems with this group for several months, and they’ve never come close to reaching the potential expected by most basketball pundits. Before things get worse, it may be wise to seek divorce instead of withdrawing. But where could the Rockets send Durant, and what could they get back?

Why trading Jimmy Butler for Kevin Durant makes sense

The danger in moving Durant is that Houston gave up a lot to get him. Can they really get the same value to chase the title in 2026-27? This limits the options significantly, but leaves an interesting idea. Trading Durant to the Warriors for Jimmy Butler.

It’s well established that the Warriors are eager to reunite with Durant after the 16-time All-Star helped lead them to three consecutive Finals trips – two wins – during his three seasons in California. The team has been searching for a superstar for the last two years and bringing back the devil they know, not the devil they don’t know.

Plus, while Butler was good in Golden State, we know for a fact that Durant is a better fit there. Especially if coach Steve Kerr returns next season. Additionally, a case can be made that Butler would be a better fit in Houston under Ime Udoka. A defensive-minded coach like Erik Spoelstra and Butler were fantastic with him in Miami.

The biggest issue is that the soon-to-be 37-year-old is trying to bounce back from a torn ACL. It would be understandable if the Rockets weren’t interested in two veterans potentially coming off ACL tears (VanVleet) next season. But matching the money in a trade in a Durant for Butler swap is far easier than most potential deals.

If Golden State is willing to give up a future first-round pick to sweeten the pot, it would be an offer Houston should seriously consider. A lineup of Kristaps Porzingis, Draymond Green, Durant, Stephen Curry and Brandin Podziemski, and Alpern Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Butler, Amen Thompson and VanVleet looks very good for the Warriors.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A new report points to the New York Knicks potentially replacing veteran rim-protector Mitchell Robinson with St. John’s top star in 2025-26.

Robinson never had stats that jumped off the page. Even this season, he is averaging 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in just 19.6 minutes per night. However, for Knicks fans and rivals in the conference, they know the seven-foot player can make a big difference as an elite offensive rebounder, talented rim protector and lob threat.

That’s why New York gave the former second-round pick a huge raise four years ago in the form of a four-year, $60 million deal. However, with the valuable center in the final year of his contract, and the Knicks already hovering around the second salary tax apron, there’s a very real possibility they let Robinson walk in free agency.

That’s why they may consider trying to replace him with a more cost-effective option in June’s NBA Draft. Well, they could reportedly be one of those teams taking a close look at a player who could be a great replacement for Robinson next season.

Could the New York Knicks trade Mitchell Robinson for Zubie Ejiofor?

According to college basketball insider Adam Zagoria, more than 20 teams have “requested private workouts” with St. John’s star Jubie Ejiofor. It would make complete sense if the Knicks were one of the teams the senior won Big East Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year and Scholar Athlete of the Year honors last season for a Red Storm team that reached the Sweet 16.

Although Ejiofor is shorter than Robinson (7-feet compared to 6-foot-9), he weighs similar to the Knicks center. He is also a talented rim protector (2.1 blocks per night) and offensive rebounder (3.0 ORPG in 2025-26, 4.4 in 2024-25). However, he may be upgraded overall as he is a far more efficient scorer than Robinson.

Last season, Ejiofor posted 17.3 points per game and shot 72% from the line. Robinson is a liability at the line after averaging 51% from the stripe for his career. The St. John’s big man could be an option for New York, with a higher possibility at 24, or 31, to open Round 2 of the draft.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Former IWGP Heavyweight Champion EVIL may debut in WWE soon.

Sources have indicated to BodySlam that EVIL is expected to debut soon following his recent signing with the company, with tonight’s NXT emerging as a possibility given the mysterious storyline currently ongoing on the brand.

PWInsider first confirmed the signing last week, noting that WWE has yet to publicly acknowledge the deal. A follow-up report from PWInsider also revealed that EVIL is currently listed internally on WWE’s diverse roster – the same category used for legends and injured talent – ​​suggesting that the company has not yet decided which brand he will be assigned to. That picture is probably about to change.

So where does evil fit in? The NXT connection stems from last week’s episode of the brand, during which Tony D’Angelo was presented with a box containing the Japanese kanji for “war”. The delivery immediately led to speculation that EVIL may have been behind it, with many fans and observers pointing out the obvious similarities between the secret package and his arrival in WWE.

Others have suggested that the sender could be Pro Wrestling NOAH’s Meteor Sasaki, who is currently on tour in NXT. No confirmation of either theory has been provided, but the timing of the bodyslam’s imminent first report on The Tonight Show fuels EVIL speculation.

EVIL had a breakout moment in his career after betraying Los Ingobernables de Japon to join up with Bullet Club in 2020. He defeated Tetsuya Naito, retaining both the IWGP Heavyweight and IWGP Intercontinental Championships, a moment that marked a significant change in NJPW’s storytelling at the time.

His overall resume includes one IWGP Heavyweight Championship reign, one IWGP Intercontinental Championship reign, four NEVER Openweight Championship reigns, two IWGP Tag Team Championship reigns, and six NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship reigns. He left NJPW in January before his WWE contract was confirmed in late April. Japanese sources are expected to drop the EVIL ring name going forward, although WWE has not publicly confirmed any new name.

chelsea Winger Pedro Neto has provided a revealing insight into how he sees the club’s stature, drawing comparisons with Benfica when discussing pressure and scrutiny.

talking to portugal international DAZN And they were asked to name the Portuguese side closest to their current club.

Although he acknowledged the difficulty of the comparison, his answer focused on expectations and media attention rather than style or structure.

This perspective reflects Nato’s own experience since arriving in London. The 25-year-old has had to adjust to a team that is still searching for consistency, where performances have often been too disjointed.

Pressure and spotlight on Chelsea

Pedro Neto explained that the comparison with Benfica comes from how both clubs have been treated during difficult times. He explained that scale and expectations shape the narrative around outcomes.

“It’s a difficult question. Chelsea is a huge club and it’s difficult to compare it to a club in Portugal.” He said.

“In my opinion, Chelsea is a team that is talked about a lot in bad moments. So I would say that, in Portugal, maybe Benfica has that dimension.”

The former Braga player continued: “When things are not going well, it is also probably the most talked about club. So if I had to compare, it would be Benfica.”

Neto came through Braga’s academy, was sold by them to Wolverhampton after a loan spell at Lazio, and never actually played for one of Portugal’s ‘big three’ – but having grown up in the country and faced them many times, he knows what that level of pressure feels like.

Dressing Room Dynamic and the Portugal Connection

Pedro Neto also revealed his relationship with fellow Portuguese players, particularly Manchester City players. His comments highlight a competitive edge that extends beyond club football.

“I enjoy it more and more, also because I have a good relationship with them and I like those little battles”He revealed.

“In the last game against City, I was talking with Matthias Nunes and Bernardo Silva. I said to Matthias: ‘You still haven’t caught me once.’ Then there was a ball where I tried to combine with Caicedo and he played it very wide.

“We were running together and he started saying: ‘You’re crazy, you’re crazy!’ And I said to him: ‘If the ball had come my way, you wouldn’t have had a chance!’

He continued to explain how these exchanges apply in a national team environment:

“It’s something fun and something that takes us to another level. That competitiveness, and then going to the national team and still having that fun, which is to say what happened.”

“And most of all, it’s the opportunity to play with players of that caliber. In the last game, Bernardo had the ball and I was telling him: ‘Go forward, don’t be afraid.’ No one pays attention to this from outside.

“Then there was an occasion where I tried to dribble him and he took the ball and said: ‘You’re crazy, you thought you could get past me.’ It’s very strange.”

What does this say about NATO’s role

Pedro Neto’s comments show he understands the pressure Chelsea is under. However, it has been a bit of a mixed bag on the pitch. He is involved, wants the ball and tries to create. But the final product isn’t always there.

This is where the criticism comes in. Some decisions don’t go right in the final third, especially in big moments. Despite all the discrepancies, they were recently linked to a move to barcelona.

But at Chelsea, it is noticed immediately. Neto is contributing, but still feels like he needs to be more consistent.

A new rumor has opened the door for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to make a bold move in Round 2 of the NFL Draft and find an interesting prospect to replace franchise veteran Mike Evans.

At the NFL Combine, Miami star Ruben Benn Jr. became a divisive figure when it was revealed that his arms were shorter than the standard for productive EDGE rushers in the NFL. Nevertheless, he was still viewed as a player who should go in the top 10 after playing a key role in the Hurricanes reaching the national championship game in January.

However, 14 teams, including the Miami Dolphins, pursued the talented EDGE rusher. But Tampa didn’t, and they may have gotten a better player than expected with the No. 15 overall pick. But it’s hard to be that lucky twice, and the team still needs to find a player to fill the big void left by six-time Pro Bowler Mike Evans.

Could the Tampa Bay Buccaneers move up to draft Denzel Boston on Friday night?

Well, a new rumor presents the possibility for the Buccaneers to do just that as early as Round 2. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, “The San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals and Buffalo Bills have received calls about potential trades at the top of Round 2 tonight, in what could be a busy trade night.”

The first selection of the trio of teams took place on Friday at Nos. 33, 34 and 35. Washington receiver Denzel Boston is still among the best players available. He has a very good start, good speed, is effective at winning jump balls and competitive pass battles, and is a problem in the red zone. The skills are quite similar to those of the Buccaneers legend.

Tampa Bay has the first pick in Round 2 at 46. So moving to the front of the line on Friday night would be a remarkable jump. However, with three teams willing to move back, there is an opportunity to land a very good prospect to pair with rising star Emeka Egbuka in the coming years.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A new rumor suggests that the Kansas City Chiefs will have an opportunity to move up in Round 2 of the NFL Draft and acquire the talented wide receiver they did not select in Round 1.

The chief was busy on Thursday night. They entered the night with not one, but two picks in Round 1. Selection No. 9 and 29 respectively. However, they were aggressive early on and actually moved up three spots in a trade with the Cleveland Browns. However, this was not meant to go after any offensive lineman or stud receiver. Instead, they drafted Trent McDuffie’s replacement in LSU cornerback Mansur Delaney.

Then, at age 29, they came to the rescue again when they used their pick on Clemson tackle Peter Woods. Going heavy on defense with their first two picks surprised some. Especially since Patrick Mahomes needs more weapons in the passing game, Travis Kelce is likely to retire after this season. Well, that opportunity may come as early as Friday night in Round 2.

Could the KC Chiefs move up to draft Denzel Boston on Friday night?

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, “The San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals and Buffalo Bills have received calls about potential trades at the top of Round 2 tonight, in what could be a busy trade night.”

The first selection of the trio of teams took place on Friday at Nos. 33, 34 and 35. Washington receiver Denzel Boston is still among the best players available. He has a very good start, good speed, is effective at winning jump balls and competitive pass battles, and is a problem in the red zone. The Chiefs will love the skills he gets next season.

It will be interesting to see if they try to move up again, this time with their pick at 40, and go after the impact pass catcher they missed in the early rounds.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A new rumor has opened the door for the San Francisco 49ers or Kansas City Chiefs to land a Pro Bowl-level wide receiver, which they could actually use tonight during Round 1 of the NFL Draft.

Heading into this week’s NFL Draft, there has been an unusual amount of trade-related talk. With this year’s quarterback class being weak, teams ranked in the top 10 are more willing to trade down and acquire more draft assets this year or next.

However, there have also been reports of teams without a first rounder trying to get a selection tonight, or teams trying to add another pick late in Round 1. The Jacksonville Jaguars are a part of that group, and they’re clearly hanging on to a player they took late in Round 1 two years ago in order to make the selection on Thursday.

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, “The Jaguars could try to lay the groundwork for a potential trade in the bottom of the first round. A potential lure could include receiver Brian Thomas Jr.”

An opportunity emerges for the 49ers or Chiefs to trade Brian Thomas Jr. tonight

There are four teams with late picks in Round 1 who would be interesting to see give up their selection for a one-time Pro Bowl. Those franchises are the San Francisco 49ers (Pick 27), Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 29), Buffalo Bills (Pick 26), and New England Patriots (Pick 31).

The Chiefs targeting Thomas Jr. makes sense as they also have the ninth pick on Thursday night, and are in desperate need of a legitimate receiver. In Kansas City, Thomas could bring the Chiefs’ offense back to the dominant power it was at the beginning of their dynasty.

With Brandon Aiyuk’s future in San Francisco in jeopardy, the 49ers giving up their only first-rounder for Thomas Jr. would be a smart decision. They might be waiting for this perfect opportunity before officially releasing the receiver.

The Bills and Patriots both have fits for Thomas Jr. However, a pair of AFC East teams heavily linked to an AJ Brown trade may hold their pick and wait until the Philadelphia Eagles star officially hits the open market, which is rumored to be after June 1.

Available after 2025, Thomas Jr. has shown he is not a good fit for head coach Liam Coen’s attack. In his rookie season, he earned Pro Bowl honors (1,282 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns) and has a very affordable contract for the next two years.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

swansea city Having already secured their survival in the Championship, the club’s internal rebuild now takes center stage.

We previously covered parts of Vitor Matos’ interview regarding the striker zhan vipotnik status. Anyway, full conversation with Portuguese newspaper to ball Provides great insight into Swansea’s structure, identity and long-term planning.

Below, the main themes of that interview are organized and expanded upon, with Matos’s full comments preserved and grouped for clarity.

Arrival and immediate priorities

Vitor Matos moved closer to the relegation zone with Swansea. The initial focus was on survival, but also laying the foundation for something more stable.

“Above all, it was a challenge because of the moment the change happened. It was about the moment that mattered for Marítimo and Swansea. It was a decision driven by ambition, but also something I always wanted, which was to return to England. It’s a positive balance.”

“The first big challenge was to stabilize the club, which had fallen to the bottom of the table, very close to the relegation places. The priority was to stabilise, then gradually improve the quality of play and the individual quality of the players.”

He also highlighted how little time he had to implement the ideas in the beginning.

“It’s not easy in the Championship. We arrived after the Bristol game, did two training sessions and then immediately played the derby. Two days later, West Brom away. Only after that did we have time to train properly.”

“So the priority was to get it right, but already trying to present how we wanted to change some things.”

creating a game identity

One of the clearest messages from the interview is that Swansea are trying to redefine the way they play, moving away from previous formations.

“The team was coming from a less positive period and was also playing in a 5-3-2 or 5-4-1 formation, which I clearly wanted to change from day one.”

“It’s about understanding the team, identifying the qualities we can work with and starting to shape our view of the game. Understanding the short and medium-term priorities is fundamental for the team to become more competitive.”

Matos also emphasized how complex the process is in a championship environment.

“Stability in this league comes from a lot of little things. It’s a complex process. It has to do with the number of games, the type of opposition and the variability you face.”

“This is part of the development of tactical maturity that the team needs. We have evolved, become more consistent, but there is still a lot of improvement to be made.”

Culture, identity and relationship with the club

Beyond tactics, Matos repeatedly returned to the importance of rebuilding Swansea’s identity and culture.

“A culture isn’t built in a day. The culture we want to develop is about values, a competitive mentality and the connection between players, fans and staff.”

“Swansea is a club with a very rich history and has a very clear identity from its evolution towards the Premier League. That was lost at some point, and that’s what we’re trying to develop again.”

He clarified that this is beyond the pitch.

“For it to survive, there has to be a recruiting vision that aligns with it, a vision of how the club views and engages with the community.”

“There must come a moment where, beyond belief, there is joy in the club’s identity. That’s how we are building.”

To reconnect with that identity, Swansea turned to figures from their past.

“That cultural side is very strong and still exists, but short-term results can push clubs away from it. That was happening.”

“One of our concerns was to bring in Joe Allen and Leon Britton, who represent that period. We found a development path while respecting the essence of the club.”

Competing with top teams and raising the standards

Matos also talked about changing the mentality within the team, especially in matches against stronger opponents.

“It was important to find a base eleven and continuity to make the team more competitive and more effective.”

“We want to look at the top teams and not only compete, but try to dominate them, whether through possession or through pressure.”

“It was important for the club to realize again that it is possible to stay in high positions and compete with the best teams.”

He emphasized that results remain at the center of everything.

“The most important thing is always to win. That’s the basis on which you are evaluated. The way you do it may change, but winning is always the objective.”

Managing change and dealing with pressure

Despite a long-term contract, Matos made clear that short-term pressures still define his role.

“This is a volatile profession, evaluated in the short term. You have to build the process with the idea that there should be feedback from day one.”

“At the same time, your concern should be to improve the quality of the game. This should be visible to the owners and the fans.”

He also stressed the need for gradual development rather than major changes.

“You can’t change everything at once. Sometimes it’s possible depending on the results, sometimes not. You need care on an individual level when making changes.”

“We managed to find stability. We haven’t used a large number of players and we are the team with the lowest number of muscle injuries in the league. This shows the culture and sensitivity.”

Transfer Strategy and Squad Management

One of the most relevant sections to Swansea’s future and players like Zane Vipotnik is how the club approached the transfer market.

“Our biggest concern was not to lose players in January. It’s not about bringing in 14 players and sending out 14.”

“It’s about looking at the team, understanding the priorities, and starting to build something. Only after building can you understand the path.”

Rather than rebuild, Swansea opted for targeted additions.

“We signed Gustavo Nunes from Brentford, Leo Walta and Joel Ward. Each brought something different and added depth in the short term.”

“Joel brought experience and stability. The team needed that. Gustavo is a huge talent and gave us more options, which helped maintain our mobility.”

Matos also highlighted the internal focus.

“Our main objective was to look at all the players including the academy, the squad and those on loan and start building from there.”

What comes next for Swansea?

With survival secured, attention turns to the next phase of the project.

“You always have to build on the present knowing that the future will shape us. We want the club to continue to grow and move towards a play-off position.”

“But it is a very competitive league with a large number of games. Emotional stability is essential.”

He also spoke about the physical demands of the championship.

“We have more games than Bayern. It’s such a high number that you need emotional stability and a strong process.”

“The team must remain focused on training and recovery, even if training time is limited.”

Finally, he outlined a broader vision for the club.

“It’s about building culture, short-term competitiveness and long-term value. That includes the department, the fans, the community and scouting.”

“Everything should work under the same approach, with a clear process that allows players to arrive fresh and ready to compete.”

What does this mean for Swansea

This entire interview shows that Swansea is no longer operating as a short-term survival project.

There is a clear emphasis on stability, identity and controlled development. Swansea suffered from losing key players in January. With a stronger structure now in place, any summer decision will likely follow the same logic – consistent with the broader project set out by Matos.

This makes it much more than a standard transfer case. It is part of a wider rebuild that will define Swansea’s next steps.

If the New York Knicks don’t reach the NBA Finals this spring, a surprising rumor opens the door for them to get rid of Mike Brown without paying the $30 million remaining on his contract.

Despite being on the job for less than a year, Brown is feeling intense pressure in his first postseason as head coach of the Knicks. The former coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Sacramento Kings was hired to lead the team ahead of Tom Thibodeau. However, they have won only two games more than last year, and they have disappointed fans more in 2025-26 than in the past few seasons.

Going into the campaign, most Knicks pundits felt the team would have to reach at least the NBA Finals for the coaches, executives, and players to keep their jobs. While firing a coach after one season is a rash move, questions have been raised about the team’s chemistry this season and the Browns’ decision not to adjust their system to get the most out of All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns.

Moving Brown would be costly as the team is still stuck with three years of the four-year, $40 million deal he signed over the summer. Plus, they still owe Thibodeau a three-year extension two summers ago. However, the team may be saved from trouble by an unexpected turn of events.

Can the Warriors save the NY Knicks from the big Mike Brown Bills?

Steve Kerr’s future as coach of the Golden State Warriors is uncertain as his contract is set to expire soon. According to San Francisco Standard Warriors reporter Tim Kawakami, Brown would be the top choice as a replacement if Kerr opts out.

But why would an elite franchise like Golden State bring in a coach who has been dumped by four teams? Well, Brown remains popular after six seasons in the organization as Kerr’s top assistant and interim coach on two occasions.

Knicks fans saw last season how difficult it is to get an interview and potentially get traded for a coach. However, if the franchise wants to move on from Brown and bring in someone like Billy Donovan, they certainly wouldn’t be asking for too much in a trade with the Warriors.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A new report has opened the door for the New York Giants or Kansas City Chiefs to move down in Round 1 of the NFL Draft, as well as land a Pro Bowl receiver.

We’re just hours away from Round 1 of the NFL Draft, one of the most exciting days on the NFL calendar. There is always speculation surrounding the annual event, but with this year’s QB class being weaker than usual, there is more talk about trades everywhere in Round 1.

One team that has been linked to a lot of trade discussions as of late is the Dallas Cowboys. They have two picks in Round 1, No. 12 and No. 20, respectively. A recent report suggests the front office is high on Miami’s Reuben Benn Jr. and Ohio State’s Caleb Downs. He has also been linked to Downes’ teammate Sonny Styles.

The Cowboys are expected to have all three off the board by 12. They can try to use two of their choices to reach the top five. But some doubt whether that would be enough for a rival club to give up a selection at that point in the draft. However, he may have another interesting trade feature: George Pickens.

During Wednesday’s edition of ESPN RiseNFL insider Adam Schefter said Dallas is “nowhere close” to an extension Pro Bowl receiver, and is projected to go in the top 10 for a player he is a fan of.

Should the NY Giants or KC Chiefs look for a first-rounder for George Pickens?

“They’re nowhere with George Pickens right now. Nowhere,” Schefter said. “They’re not really talking about an extension. They’re not close to an extension. They’re not making a deal at this point. That’s where the situation stands right now, and the Cowboys are said to really like Jordan Tyson. So it’s just another subplot in a draft full of them.”

After working out for teams last week, the Arizona State receiver has been linked to the Chiefs and Giants at picks No. 9 and No. 10 in Round 1. Once again, the Cowboys are out of range if they stick with their pick. However, if they want to move up for Tyson, Downs or Benn – players who could also end up in the top 10 – Pickens could be an interesting player to play.

The Giants would love the opportunity to acquire a weapon like Pickens for Jackson Dart. If the two NFC East rivals surprisingly agreed to a trade, perhaps pick 20 for Pickens and pick 10, and Kevon Thibodeaux would be the starting point for a deal.

The Chiefs would also love to get their hands on a game-breaking receiver like Pickens. It could be worth picking him and the No. 20 pick. Leaving Kansas City with two selections in the final 10 selections of Round 1.

The money side of the trade will also be an issue, but both teams will try to find solutions to get the player who posted 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns last year.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Birmingham City’s Carlos Vicente says the Championship team has helped him settle in quickly in England.

The Spaniard spent his entire playing career in his home country before joining the Blues from Deportivo Alaves in January.

Birmingham City invested almost €8m and saw them move to the La Liga side resulting in anger From some sections of the Spanish media.

Two months ago, Alavés sporting director Sergio Fernández revealed that it was not entirely their decision to sell the 26-year-old.

That time, He said: : “He was a very important player for us. But sometimes circumstances arise that force us to take decisions. Financially, we have to be responsible and also address the concerns and needs expressed by the player.”

settling in well in birmingham city

As Published an interview with Carlos Vicente to discuss a range of topics including his transfer to Birmingham City and life in England so far.

The January signing said everything was done by Chris Davis’ side to make him comfortable.

When asked about his adaptation to England, he said: “Very good. The club has done everything possible to help me during these months.”

“Although we have gone through a difficult period collectively and individually, I already feel very comfortable. My life here is very calm, and I dedicate myself to training, rest, eating well, reading and studying.”

The Blues now sit 14th in the Championship, 12 points behind sixth-placed Hull City. The Spaniard knows promotion is unlikely this season but is still dreaming of a Premier League place.

“This season, yes, but it’s still my biggest dream. That’s one of the reasons I decided to come here. If I didn’t know this was what the club was aiming for, I probably would have made a different decision. We have a good foundation to try to jump into next season.” Vicente explained.

Birmingham City players on Brady call

NFL legend Tom Brady is a minority owner of the English club through 2023. Carlos Vicente is a fan of the American, but his call to join Birmingham City did not go away.

“No. I was thrilled, but it didn’t influence my professional decision at all. He’s one of my idols and one of the five greatest athletes of all time, but it didn’t influence my decision in the slightest.” He added.

AS asked if he was more impressed by Brady’s call than receiving calls from Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi.

Responding to that, Vicente said: “Yeah, definitely. I’m a huge NFL fan, and Brady is an idol to me in every way. It felt incredible to be able to talk to him. I was already in Birmingham, and the sports director gave me his phone, and it was a video call.

“When I saw his face, I was blown away. I’m a fan of American sports, both the NFL and the NBA, and Brady is a megastar who has always impressed me.”

Vicente’s statistics

Carlos Vicente has played 15 matches for Birmingham City so far, including one match in the FA Cup.

His championship statistics are as follows:

• Appearances: 14
• Start: 7
• Target: 3
• Help: 1

A projected top 10 selection who would be a great replacement option for AJ Brown could fall right into the Philadelphia Eagles’ lap when they are on the clock in Round 1 of the NFL Draft.

One of the biggest storylines this offseason has been on the future of AJ Brown. Last season, the three-time Pro Bowler made no secret of his frustration with the team and how he was used in the offense. This led to obvious speculation that once the season ended, he could go on the trade block.

However, as we approach the end of April, Brown remains in Philadelphia. Most believe a trade hasn’t happened yet because it would cost Philadelphia far more in dead cap to move him before June 1. Assuming he is traded in a few months, it would make sense for the Eagles to find his replacement with a top pick in next week’s draft.

Philadelphia makes its pick at 23 in Round 1. This puts him outside the range of top wide receiver prospects in this year’s class. Or maybe not. Arizona State star Jordan Tyson has the widest selection range and floor among pass catchers this year, according to ESPN NFL expert Matt Miller.

Jordan Tyson could be available to the Eagles at pick No. 23

Miller wrote, “He missed 17 of the possible 51 games in which he could have played. Tyson’s most recent injury was a hamstring injury that has caused him to miss three games in 2025.” “Teams will have varying levels of acceptance with injuries, but because of this, Tyson is limited all over the place — and eight concussions heading into the 2024 season haven’t helped his stock either.

“If injury concerns prove valid he could come off the board early at No. 8 to the Saints or slip to No. 33 to the Jets.”

A few weeks ago, Tyson was in the news as the best pass catcher in this year’s draft. However, as teams get deeper into their evaluation process, his injuries are becoming a major issue. This makes him risky for the Eagles. But when he’s healthy, he’s extremely talented.

Tyson is a strong route runner, has size at 6 feet 2 inches and weighs over 200 pounds, has impressive upside to go up and receive passes, and is a great blocker for a receiver. In 2024, he posted 75 catches for 1,101 yards, 10 touchdowns and a 14.7 yards per catch average.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

fulham Striker Rodrigo Muniz is having a very different season compared to his previous two campaigns, scoring just one goal in 19 appearances in all competitions.

After signing a new contract and becoming a key attacking figure at Craven Cottage over the past few seasons, expectations were higher this time around. However, injuries and a lack of rhythm have disrupted his momentum, forcing the Brazilian to rebuild his form step by step.

Those struggles formed the backdrop for a recent interview espn brazilHeld just before Fulham’s trip to Anfield last Saturday. Muniz started that match, leading the line and later being substituted, as Fulham were defeated 2–0 at home.

Hurt struggles and searches for rhythm

Rodrigo Muniz opened up about the difficult times he has endured in recent months.

“The last six months were tough. I’ve been back for a month now. I don’t feel 100% yet. In the last two weeks without playing, they worked on me more with different training, and now I feel good.”

This is a huge difference from the 2024/25 season. Due to his excellent form, his name was added a lot One step towards Atalanta This could not happen last summer. And he knows that everyone misses his performance.

“I still hope to be the Rodrigo of last season. I think I have everything to be the same player again who scores goals.”

He also pointed to external factors that can affect performance levels.

“Not only Brazilians, but players everywhere feel better when it’s warm. When it’s cold, it’s no excuse, but it’s a little harder.”

Studying the forwards and improving my game.

Rodrigo Muniz revealed he is still studying other forward players closely, especially Ollie Watkins.

“He’s a player that catches my attention. I watch videos because of his movement. He can come in short and attack space. That’s what I need to do. He makes movements that confuse defenders. Because of that and the goals he’s scored, he really stands out.”

However, he also admitted that his game needs to be adapted depending on the opponent.

“I think Marco Silva prepares the team very well for each week. There are games where I have to drop deeper, others where I have to push the defense back more. It depends on the match.”

Teammates, Brazil relations and dressing room life

Rodrigo Muniz also spoke emotionally about former teammate Andreas Pereira.

“He is someone I will have like a brother for the rest of my life. I miss him every day. For the last three years he was here, helping me. The club also misses him because he was one of the captains and brought good things on and off the field.”

He also shared a lighter moment about his time in England, which included watching the match from the stands while injured.

“I asked the club if I could watch, but there was no room in the boxes. They said there was a place with fans. I said OK and went there. It was a great experience.”

He remembered hearing his mantra.

“When I arrived, the fans were already singing my song. I thought, ‘This is amazing’.”

Future ambitions and goals of Fulham

Looking at the bigger picture, Muniz made it clear that Fulham still have ambitions for the final stages of the season.

“Marco Silva is very ambitious. In the meetings, he makes clear that we can reach Europe, but we need results. We have seven finals left and must treat them like finals. We have everything to do it because our season is going well.”

His motivation on a personal level is equally clear.

“Playing in Europe has been a dream since I was a kid. I’ve been here for a long time, from the Championship to the Premier League, and it will be very special.”

Ultimately, the defeat at Anfield underlined the challenge ahead for him. He is back on the field, but still searching for his best form.

The final weeks of the season will now be crucial for Fulham’s ambitions and Muniz’s attempt to prove last season was not a one-off.

of manchester city Midfield planning for the summer is already underway behind the scenes, with the club hoping to make at least one significant addition in that area.

There is growing uncertainty about Rodri’s long-term availability, and City are looking for a profile capable of offering control, defensive structure and leadership in central areas. With this he has returned to Portugal.

Sporting CP has become a regular reference point for top European sides when searching for tactically mature midfielders. And over the past few seasons, one name has consistently stood out – captain Morten Hjulmand.

The city is keeping a close eye on them throughout the operation. Now, the situation seems to be shifting from simple interest to something more concrete.

Why is Hjulmand suitable for the city?

Morten Hjulmand’s profile explains Manchester City’s interest.

During the 2025/26 season, he has made 41 appearances, contributing 3 goals and 4 assists in all competitions, playing approximately 3,300 minutes.

More importantly, their underlying statistics highlight their role in controlling games.

FootyStats data shows that he averages approximately 2.8 tackles and 2.0 interceptions per 90 minutes, as well as approximately 6.6 ball recoveries per match. These statistics underline his defensive reliability.

In possession, he averages over 60 passes per game with over 85% accuracy, as well as approximately 1.1 key passes per 90 minutes. He is not a high-risk creator, but he keeps the structure intact and the pace consistent.

He also brings leadership. The captain of Hjulmand Sporting has been a central figure in their recent domestic success.

For City, that combination – tactical discipline, physical presence and leadership – fits the profile they are looking to add to the midfield.

City has started positioning for the deal

According to a recent report by ball In Portugal, Manchester City have already made informal contact regarding Morten Hjulmand, as they look to make a quick move in the market.

The Premier League champions are looking to overtake strong competition, including Juventus and Manchester United. Our recent coverage also includes armory And tottenham. But the idea is clear: position yourself in advance and be ready to act when the window opens.

And a key figure in this process is Hugo Viana, As mentioned earlier.

Now part of the city’s fabric, Vienna is very well known to the Danish international. He was responsible for bringing the midfielder from Lecce to Sporting in 2023 in a deal worth around €19.5m (£16.8m).

That prior relationship gives City a significant advantage in understanding the circumstances surrounding the player and a potential transfer.

The two clubs also have a strong working relationship, which helps further City’s position.

price range established

Morten Hjulmand is protected by a release clause worth €80m (£69m), but the realistic transfer price is expected to be lower.

Sporting is prepared to negotiate a deal in the region of €40m to €50m (£34m to £43m). This range is in line with previous signals from Portugal and reflects more market-driven valuations.

There is no pressure on the club to sell. However, he acknowledges that Hjulmand’s cycle in Lisbon is reaching its natural conclusion. His professionalism and consistent performances over the last three seasons have given him the opportunity to progress further.

Internally, Sporting is already acting on that expectation.

Succession is already planning

Sporting had been preparing for Hjulmand’s departure for some time, As we covered in February.

The club’s scouting department has prioritized the search for a replacement defensive midfielder. The plan is to reinvest a portion of the transfer fee directly into a player capable of stepping into a starting role.

The profile being targeted is similar – physical presence, strategic maturity and leadership potential, combined with room for future growth and resale value.

This reflects how Sporting has handled past major departures, ensuring continuity even after losing influential players.

what happens next

There have been no formal talks yet, but the groundwork is clearly being prepared.

Manchester City has gathered information, established contacts and put itself ahead of the competition. Sporting, for their part, are preparing a sale which they now consider possible.

With a defined price cap, a known connection through Hugo Viana and strong interest from several top clubs, this situation is expected to develop rapidly once the transfer window opens.

For now, City are doing what they often do best – moving forward early, gaining control and trying to stay one step ahead.

A new report has opened the door for the Los Angeles Lakers to replace LeBron James this summer with an excellent prospect and perhaps at a very affordable price.

The Lakers and James have some big decisions to make in the summer. The 22-time All-Star will become a free agent this offseason, and staying in LaLa land for another season is far from a lock. James is 41 and very near the end of his career, while L.A. has made a big pivot in making Luka Doncic the face of their franchise and building around the young star.

A case can be made to get James back on a competitive and financial footing. He is still playing at a high level, and the retirement tour would be worth big money to the organization. However, he will likely demand good money in his next contract, and many will be surprised if he is not a good fit for what the team wants to build. Either way, the front office must prepare for life after LeBron James, whether it’s this year or the summer of 2027.

The team has been linked to a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo trade this summer. However, they will have to consider an eventual extension for young star Austin Reeves. Keeping three big contracts is not in the team’s best interest, so they should look at different ways to use their money smartly to build the right team around Doncic.

Zachary Rishachar could be on the trade block this summer

Well, an interesting potential trade target who could replace James in the long term will likely become available very soon. This week, The Athletic’s John Hollinger pointed to the diminishing role of Atlanta Hawks prospect Zackary Risacher.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft was a starter for most of the season. However, in its final third, he was relegated to a bench role. Now, over the past few weeks, he has been completely out of Atlanta’s rotation as they make a run at the NBA Playoffs. Considering the Hawks have picked up their club option on Jonathan Kuminga, Rishachar has no role in the team despite his ability.

The Frenchman is a talented spot-up shooter with a strong basketball IQ. At 6-foot-9 and with his good athletic ability, he is a valuable defender who can guard multiple positions. But the big hurdle in his game is that he still needs to get stronger – which hurts his comebacks – and he still has a lot of work to do on his playing skills.

However, he has just turned 21 and has only played two seasons in the league. He’s far from a finished product, and with his price at a new low, the Lakers could land him in a trade without giving up big assets. If JJ Redick and the Lakers are looking for a moldable piece of clay at large, Rishaer should be a summer target to potentially replace James.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A move from Newcastle United, early contact from Arsenal and interest from Chelsea have helped build growing momentum around Palmeiras teenager Eduardo Conceição.

Buzz around the 16-year-old is growing rapidly, with several Premier League clubs now following his development closely.

However, while interest continues to grow, the player himself remains focused on a very simple objective: improving on the pitch and following the path already taken by the players he admires.

Premier League interest grows around him

As mentioned earlier, newcastle united Have already tried to sign Eduardo. During this time, armory were among the first English clubs to make contact, and chelsea Now it is also in the picture.

This interest comes alongside attention from across Europe. Clubs such as Barcelona have been linked, while Palmeiras continue to secure the player with an £86 million (€100 million) release clause and a long-term development plan.

Pressure, publicity and staying grounded

In a recent interview with a Spanish outlet AsEduardo Conceição detailed how he’s handling the increased attention.

“Pressure is natural for those who play for Palmeiras. We are used to dealing with it from a young age.” he explained.

Despite the headlines surrounding his links with clubs across Europe, Eduardo insists he keeps his distance from the noise.

“I admit that I don’t usually read news about myself. My daily goal is to be in the best possible condition to show my value on the pitch. I don’t even like that my agent knows what happens outside football.”

He also highlighted the role of his family in keeping him grounded: “My family helps me a lot in that sense. They always remind me of the importance of keeping my feet on the ground.”

The young player also made it clear how much he values ​​Palmeiras’ support in his development.

“I am very grateful to Palmeiras. Everything I am as a player comes from the work the club has done since I arrived. Knowing that I am valued for what I do on the pitch makes me very happy. It gives me extra motivation to keep improving every day.”

Influence, comparison and development path

Eduardo Conceição pointed to familiar names when discussing his inspirations.

“Andrique and Estevao are the biggest inspirations for all of us who are chasing our dreams. I have followed their path and I hope that one day I will do what they did for Palmeiras.”

His connection with that path is also personal. One of his agents is Douglas Souza, Andrique’s father.

“It’s important to have someone close to you who has lived through the experience of leading your son to success. I can always learn from him. I hope to get to know Andrique better one day.”

Comparisons with other young stars are inevitable, and Eduardo accepts them without allowing them to define him.

“Everyone who is starting out has to get used to comparisons. It’s incredible to be compared with successful players I admire, but my goal is to make my way and show who Eduardo is.”

Playing style – in his own words

When asked to describe his game, Eduardo Conceição gave a clear description of his strengths.

“I like one-on-one situations, dribbling and beating opponents quickly. I think my style is quite similar to Estevao’s, although he is left-footed and I am right-footed.”

He also made international comparisons: “Yamal is a player with a similar style to me, always looking for an individual game.”

The Palmeiras youngster gave more details about his position and role on the pitch.

“I’ve played on the left most of the time, but I can also play more centrally. On the pitch, I want to dribble and help the team score goals, either scoring or assisting.”

Personality and short-term ambitions

Away from football, Eduardo Conceição describes himself in simple terms.

“I’m a quiet guy, I avoid trouble. I like to spend time with my family. When I’m not training or playing, I’m usually at home.”

Looking ahead, his focus remains firmly on Palmeiras rather than any future move.

“In two years I will still be very young,” He said smiling. “My dream is to have the opportunity to debut for the Palmeiras first team and make a difference on the pitch, as others have done in recent seasons.”

With Newcastle already considering a move, and Arsenal and Chelsea also among those circling, this opportunity could soon come to even greater global attention.

One of Middlesbrough’s past idols has come into focus again this week, after a detailed account of his move to England – and why perhaps he should never have left.

Juninho Paulista, who became one of the club’s most recognizable names in the late 1990s and early 2000s, made a significant impact in several spells at the Riverside.

In total, he played 150 matches for Middlesbrough, scoring 34 goals and providing 18 assists. He came to the club on three separate occasions, underlining both his importance and the relationship he formed with the team and fans.

Notably, he was also part of the team that won the League Cup during his second tenure in 2004, one of the club’s most significant modern achievements.

His comments now provide new insight into Middlesbrough’s recruitment strategy at the time as well as the impact he made after arriving.

According to the player, the move can be traced back to an international tournament in 1995, when he first attracted the attention of English football while playing for Brazilian side São Paulo.

“We played the Umbro Cup in England. It was Brazil, England, Sweden and Japan. We became champions and beat England 3-1 at Wembley.” he explained to one brazilian podcast.

Sport Witness has translated the comments relating to Middlesbrough.

That competition proved to be decisive. Middlesbrough’s manager at the time, Bryan Robson, had close ties to the England setup and quickly rose to prominence at the club.

“The Middlesbrough manager was the assistant to the England coach. That’s when I started getting interested in taking him to England.”

However, the transfer did not happen immediately. Work permit rules delayed the deal, forcing the club to wait until the player met the required international appearance criteria.

“At that time, you needed 70% national team appearances over two years. I didn’t have that yet. They kept waiting, I kept getting called up, and when I became eligible, they came back for me.”

The pitch and initial impact of the Middlesbrough project

Bryan Robson’s role went beyond recruitment. The former midfielder reassured the player with a clear playing approach, which resonated strongly.

“I believed in the Middlesbrough project because Robson convinced me. He said: ‘Come on, we’re going to build a technical team, not a physical team.'”

That promise was in line with his own style. Middlesbrough was not yet an established power, but ambition played an important role.

“Middlesbrough was a small club that wanted to go from medium to big. So I believed in the project.”

The adaptation was not without challenges. The weather deteriorated immediately, but things developed quickly on the pitch.

“I came in a harsh winter. The cold was tough. But I adapted well to English football. With long balls and pace, spaces appeared.”

It suited his game. He got the job done and made an immediate impact.

“In the first year I already had some influence. In the second year, personally, it was great. I was named best player in the league.”

Status and lasting relations in England

At that time, his arrival had widespread significance. He represented Brazil at international level wearing the iconic number 10 shirt.

“I was playing as a Brazilian number 10. For a Brazilian number 10 to go to a mid-level English club, it means a lot.”

That context helped shape how he was received not only at Middlesbrough, but across the country.

“I have a lot of affection for him and he also has a lot of affection for me.”

Even after years, this bond remains strong. Even recent visits underline his enduring popularity at the club.

“I went back with my son. He said: ‘You look like Neymar or Messi here!’ He was surprised at how people treated me.”

According to him, the appreciation remains at Middlesbrough because of how the club values ​​its past.

“There, the past is given a lot of importance. They recognize what you did.”

What does it say about Middlesbrough

The story recalls a period when the club successfully attracted elite level talent through a clear project and strong leadership.

Bryan Robson’s influence was central in both identifying goals and selling the long-term vision. The club’s patience with work permit issues also highlights a strategic approach that paid off.

At the same time, the player’s reflections reinforce his influence on Riverside. His numbers across three spells, coupled with the League Cup win, point to a transfer relationship that provided real value.

He regrets leaving England, which also adds an interesting aspect. This shows that Middlesbrough provided an environment where he could continue to progress.

For a club that continues to balance ambition with stability, there are clear parallels with the current times.

🇩🇪Robin Fellhauer | Middlesbrough initiate contact for the signature of the versatile player

⏩ Trying to transfer borough
📅Interest in winter markets returns
➕ Burnley are also keenhttps://t.co/BkJ9X7r4RH #boro

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 27 March 2026

Oleksandr Usyk has eased his stance on a potential clash with Agit Kabayel, raising fresh uncertainty over a long-discussed third fight with Tyson Fury. Speaking in an interview with the Daily Mail the undisputed heavyweight champion said Kabayel could fit into his plans following his upcoming title defense against Rico Verhoeven in May.

Usyk had previously outlined a clear path away from Kabyle, but his latest comments suggest a change. While he remains linked to the winner of the WBO eliminator between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, the bigger picture now looks more flexible than before.

Oleksandr Usyk leaves options open after Verhoeven fight

Usyk made it clear that his plans are not on hold, even if expectations remain for his next few fights.

“Maybe I’ll fight Kabyle, maybe I won’t face Tyson Fury for the third time, and instead I’ll fight Kabyle. I only tell my plan, but that’s not set in stone. I understand the agit fans are saying you have to fight him. But I don’t have to fight him. I’ve got to live my life, I’ve got to take care of my team, my kids. As far as fighting goes, I just work hard, and my Opponents work hard.”

“Maybe it’s possible that I fight Agit. He’s a great fighter, and he’s very smart.”

The tone is different from earlier this year when Usyk’s roadmap appeared certain. Now, depending on how things go, he is clearly keeping multiple doors open.

Inevitable pressure builds around Agit Kabyle

Kabayel’s status as a WBC mandatory challenger has been a topic of discussion for months. His camp has worked hard for a title shot, arguing that he has earned it.

The 32-year-old is unstoppable and is considered one of the more disciplined legends outside the top level. Usyk’s public praise only adds weight to his case.

If Usyk chooses Kabayel next, it will satisfy quiet criticism of his avoidance of the expectations and mandates of the sanctioning body. If not, the pressure is likely to increase.

Tyson Fury Trilogy No Longer Guaranteed

After the previous two fights, a third fight with Fury seemed inevitable. Now, that scenario is much less certain.

Fury has continued to seek a trilogy following his defeat in December 2024, but Usyk’s latest comments suggest it is no longer a priority.

Now everything depends on time. The Wardley-Dubois winner still factors into the title picture, and Usyk’s May bout with Verhoeven remains the immediate focus.

For now, the heavyweight division remains fluid. However, one thing is clear. Usyk is still deciding what’s next.

Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant was insightful about his thoughts as he nears retirement from his playing career in the NBA.

Durant has been in the NBA since 2007 and has shined as one of the greatest scorers the league has ever seen. Fast forward to the present time, he is succeeding as one of the top experienced scorers.

However, he also knows it won’t last forever. He made an appearance on The Boardroom Podcast, realizing that his time in the league was closer to ending than he thought.

“There’s going to come a time when it’s not going to be my place. And we’re getting close to it. And it’s crazy to think like the season is ending, like right now it’s March. April, the season is almost over in April. It’s just like where I spent my whole life doing this every day. It’s a part of my routine. I center my life around this, this is the game. So to know that hopefully I have a few years left to do this We have to start preparing for the next step,” Durant said at 21:04.

“For me, I’ve accepted that I’ll never be able to fill that spot, and I wouldn’t even call it the spot that was there. The thing that’s satisfied me is the little things that come with it. Like just the camaraderie, the camaraderie, the people I’ve met. Just interacting with basketball fans from all over the world. That’s the best part. I can still hang out. I can still go to the gym and shoot and have that routine when I’m done playing.” Will be focused on basketball.”

What Kevin Durant is forward for the Rockets

Kevin Durant is certainly grateful for the accolades and records he has earned throughout his career. As he moves through the final years of his career with the Rockets, he will look to finish out those remaining seasons strong.

Houston has a 43–27 record on the season and is in fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves, while trailing the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs.

The Rockets look forward to their next matchup while on the road. They will take on the Chicago Bulls as tip-off takes place on March 23 at 8 PM ET.

Tyson Fury is set to return to boxing on April 11, 2026, when he faces Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The fight will stream on Netflix and will be his first meeting after consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk, including a rematch in December 2024.

Fury, now 37, announced his retirement shortly after that defeat but decided to return 15 months later. The former heavyweight champion is also thinking beyond boxing. He has talked about a possible fight with former UFC champion Jon Jones and shared thoughts on his long-term future in the sport.

His latest comments, made in an interview with SportsBible, cover his opponent’s choices, motivation and what could happen next.

Tyson Fury talks about Makhmudov fight and the possibility of Anthony Joshua

Fury said the choice of opponent was deliberate. He chose Makhmudov, a heavy puncher with a strong knockout record, to properly prepare himself for a comeback fight.

“It requires someone of that caliber.”

Makhmudov has won 19 of his 23 professional bouts by knockout. His only losses came against Guido Vianello and Agit Kabayel, but he has since picked up wins against Ricardo Brown and David Allen.

If Fury wins, the focus is expected to shift to the long-discussed fight with Anthony Joshua. The British heavyweight is also set to make a comeback this summer, according to Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith.

“If a fight can be fought, let’s start it like Donkey Kong.”

Fury confirmed that he has not spoken with Joshua about a possible bout.

“I have no contact with him.”

Fury outlines post-boxing life and ongoing inspiration

Fury said he still wonders what life will be like when he retires, but made it clear that boxing remains central to him.

“My true love has always been boxing, and it has always been my passion.”

“So until this happens no more… I can go into TV full-time to do Netflix and s***.”

When asked about his motivation, Fury said that he does not need to fight, but continues because he enjoys it.

“I’m in a position where I don’t need to box. I don’t need to do anything. I can drink beer all day if I want. But I’m not interested. I love boxing. I’ve always loved boxing.”

He said he hoped to remain in the sport for the next several years.

“I’ll probably keep doing it well into my late 40s. It’s something I love. I’ve tried to walk away from it many times, and I’ve failed. It’s an addiction. Boxing is an addiction.”

Fury discusses MMA interest and Jon Jones potential

Fury also spoke about his past interest in going into mixed martial arts. Efforts to make that switch have so far not worked, he said.

“I’ve tried to do it about ten times.”

“But for some reason or the other, that has not happened. [It would take] The right amount of money. But it always requires cold, hard cash, baby.”

He then talked about facing Jon Jones, naming the former UFC champion as a possible opponent.

“You never know,” Fury said. “Anyone can beat anyone that day. Nothing is impossible, right?”

The New York Knicks have not been lucky in the playoffs in recent years. He missed the 2024 Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup with the Indiana Pacers due to injuries. And bad luck struck again in the Eastern Conference Finals last season, starting in Game 1 when they blew a 14-point lead in the fourth quarter in a 128-135 overtime loss to Indiana. The Knicks ultimately lost that series in six games.

However, the Knicks’ fortunes may have changed. And while there is an injury Never To celebrate, it was recently announced that Cade Cunningham has a partially collapsed lung, which could impact the balance of power in the Eastern Conference.

And considering how bad Detroit’s matchup has been for New York, this is a situation that could benefit the Knicks.

How Cade Cunningham’s injury changes the power dynamics in the East

Cunningham is the offensive engine of the Pistons. He is their leading scorer (24.5 points per game). And he also leads them in assists (9.9 assists per game). Cunningham also sets the tone for the Pistons’ success overall, as his outlook and approach are adopted by the broader team. Losing Cunningham to a partially collapsed lung is a huge loss for Detroit. Damaged lungs usually take three to eight weeks to heal. With the 2026 NBA Playoffs starting in about a month, timing may not be on Detroit’s favor.

What happens will depend on the severity of Cunningham’s injury and how long he will be out. The Knicks have a slight advantage if he returns before or during the first round — although that’s assuming he returns close to 100%. Thankfully, Cunningham’s injury was not considered serious. In other words, surgery is unlikely. More likely, Cunningham has returned rusty.

Assuming a return occurs, Cunningham will likely be out of shape. He will be unable to maintain cardiovascular fitness during his recovery. This means fewer minutes on the rebound and/or less impactful clutch minutes. Therefore, if Cunningham returns in the first round, the Pistons are likely in a good position to advance given their overall superiority, especially against the bottom tier of the Eastern Conference. And that will give the All-NBA guard time to get himself in shape.

However, it is more likely that he will not be back so soon. There is more possibility of a comeback in the second round. That means the Pistons will need Cunningham to step up quickly against a well-prepared Cleveland Cavaliers team – possibly the Knicks. And this is where things get tricky for Detroit.

How the Knicks could benefit from a Cunningham-less Eastern Conference

Without speculating too much about Cunningham’s return date, the benefit to New York is fairly obvious. The Pistons will either be without their best player or a younger version of themselves for part of the playoffs. Considering how Detroit has handled the Knicks this season, this isn’t bad news for New York. Although given the glory involved in winning your conference – and ultimately a championship – avoiding top-flight competition is clearly lacking – winning is the ultimate goal.

Considering the risks involved in recalling Cunningham, as well as the potential limitations he will face upon returning, it is unlikely we will see him at full strength for the rest of this season or the playoffs. This means a more open Eastern Conference. And that should benefit the Knicks as they attempt to make their first NBA Finals since 1999.

The first week of NFL free agency was complete chaos. Deals were flying left and right, with trades, surprise signings and roster shakeups happening faster than fans could refresh their timelines. The Bay Area is feeling the same stir as the San Francisco 49ers work on reshaping their roster for the 2026 season.

San Francisco is already active on the open market and is bringing in veteran wide receiver Mike Evans to add offense, as well as reuniting with linebacker Dre Greenlaw. The front office added more depth up front, signing offensive linemen Wedarian Lowe and Brett Toth to strengthen the trenches.

But it’s not just about additions. The 49ers have also seen several departures as the organization continues to realign the roster and approach their salary cap heading into the new season. And now, Santa Clara’s latest move involves a big front office decision regarding star pass rusher Nick Bosa.

San Francisco 49ers restructure Nick Bosa’s contract

NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reports on the Ax that the 49ers have reworked Nick Bosa’s contract, freeing up $17.172 million in cap space for the 2026 season. Despite the restructuring, Bosa is still set to make $23.18 million this year, while his 2027 cap hit now increases to $54,866,753.

The move comes at an interesting time for San Francisco’s defensive front.

Earlier this offseason, edge rusher Bryce Huff shocked the league by announcing his retirement at just 27 years old. Huff, who joined the 49ers via trade in 2025, departs after a six-year NFL career that included 24 sacks and 108 total tackles. His sudden exit leaves the 49ers thin in their pass-rush rotation and removes a key edge option opposite Bosa.

With Huff no longer in the picture, the 49ers created some financial relief by restructuring Bosa’s deal — a move that could prompt more roster moves as the front office reshapes the defensive line.

Could Nick Bosa reunite with Joey Bosa in San Francisco?

Bosa has been the anchor of San Francisco’s defense since the team selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. He made an immediate impact, winning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, and later solidified himself as one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers by earning Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2022.

Interestingly, the 49ers were also viewed as a potential landing spot for Joey Bosa last season before he ultimately signed with the Buffalo Bills.

Now back on the market after finishing the 2025 season with five sacks and 54 pressures — ranked 24th among edge defenders with at least 100 pass-rush snaps, according to PFF — Spotrac estimates his market value is around $13.7 million per year.

If San Francisco were to make a move for Joey Bosa, the veteran could help ease some of the workload from Leonard Williams, handling early-down snaps on the defensive end while allowing the 2025 first-rounder to kick inside more often and focus on rushing the passer.

The Minnesota Timberwolves visit the Los Angeles Clippers at the Intuit Dome on Wednesday in a marquee matchup in the Western Conference.

The Timberwolves are trying to break a two-game skid, while the Clippers have been on a roll recently, winning five of their last six games, with Kawhi Leonard playing at an MVP level.

Stopping Leonard will require a collective effort from Minnesota, with Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels being the primary on-ball stoppers. But clearly, Rudy Gobert remains their defensive anchor.

The Athletic’s Law Miller points to significant decline in Timberwolves defensive efficiency When Gobert is off the field this season. When asked about it, Minnesota coach Chris Finch emphasized Gobert’s importance and acknowledged his shortcomings.

“When he’s off the floor, we need to protect the rim differently. Better on the ball, better around the ball and earlier at the rim. Obviously, we’ve been inconsistent at times with things like that this year,” Finch said.

“He’s huge for us. It takes some nuances to play with a guy like Rudy. When he’s off the field, you have to transition to a different mentality defensively.”

The Timberwolves’ defensive efficiency with Rudy Gobert this season: 107.7

The Timberwolves’ defensive efficiency with Rudy Gobert this season: 116.7

asked Chris Finch about this pic.twitter.com/nWVDpE6B75

– Law Murray 🕯️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) 12 March 2026

Many have mocked the 33-year-old Gobert for his lack of offensive skills and awkward antics. But there’s no denying that he can be a game-changer on the defensive end.

He’s not a four-time Defensive Player of the Year for nothing.

Edwards has often talked about his defensive identity and how important it is for him and Gobert to set the tone.

Entering their game against the Clippers, the Timberwolves are allowing 114.5 points per game. But as Finch said, there is still room for improvement overall.

At the time of writing, there is a close game between Minnesota and Los Angeles in the first half.

Kyle Van Noy is a free agent at a position of need for the New England Patriots. Van Noy has spent the past two seasons playing at a high level with the Baltimore Ravens. However, the Patriots were the franchise with which Van Noy won two Super Bowls in 2017 and 2019. So, could there be a rematch between Van Noy and New England?

Van Noy joined NFL Network on Tuesday morning and talked about his free agency. The 34-year-old linebacker was asked about a possible return to the Patriots, and he expressed a strong desire to return to New England.

“It would be a blessing come true,” Van Noy said on NFL Network. “Going home will be like a dream come true…[New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel]Friend, what’s going on?”

Van Noy had 12.5 sacks for Baltimore during the 2024-25 NFL season, but he languished as a pass rusher last year. The Ravens linebacker earned only two sacks and one interception in 15 games. It was the fewest sacks Van Noy had in a season since being traded to the Patriots in 2016.

So far, New England has Draymont Jones, Robert Spillane and Christian Ellis at linebacker, but it has been linked to others at the position. Van Noy would be more of a depth option at linebacker rather than a big addition. Maybe a return to New England will revitalize the 34-year-old linebacker after a difficult season.

The 2026-27 season will likely be Van Noy’s last season in the NFL, as he said on NFL Network. It would be fitting if this were Van Noy’s final year in New England, trying for his third and final Super Bowl victory.

READ MORE: NFL Insider gives major update on AJ Brown, Patriots trade rumors

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

Chiquinho revealed that Wolverhampton Wanderers were not in favor of his move to Sporting in 2024.

Saturday edition of record has published an interview with the FC Alverca player, who talks about his time at Molineux.

Wolves signed the winger from Estoril Praia in January 2022 for a reported fee of £2.9m excluding bonuses.

He played 203 minutes in eight Premier League matches in the second half of the 2021/22 season and provided three assists.

The Record asked the 26-year-old how his move to Wolves shaped up. Responding to that he said: “In January [2022]I had a game against FC Porto. We were winning 2-0, but for them it ended 3-2. I felt I could give more and the next day I found out about the conversation.

“Three days later, I was being called up for a Premier League game. I spent most of the game watching in the stands!”

conflict over wolves

The Portuguese player suffered a serious injury in a pre-season friendly match in July 2022, which kept him sidelined for almost a year. This meant he had to miss the 2022/23 season.

After regaining full fitness, Chiquinho was unable to find a place in the Premier League team, sending him on a season-long loan deal to Stoke City in July 2023. Wolves recalled him after playing just four times for the Potters.

However, he had no place at Molineux as the English club immediately sent him on loan again to Famalicão in September 2023. Wolves had him spend last season on loan at RCD Mallorca and before that, Sporting wanted to sign him.

Sporting wanted Chiquinho

In July 2024, Sport Witness news broadcast from portugal Lions’ interest in the attacker. Gary O’Neill was Wolves manager at the time and included Chiquinho in his pre-season squad.

Record were curious to know why he arrived at Mallorca instead of the Portuguese club. While answering this, he openly explained why his move towards sporting did not take place.

“Sporting, Mallorca, several clubs were interested,” Chiquinho explained.

“I was having a good pre-season but the manager didn’t want to let me go, saying I would be an important player. But it got to a point where neither I nor Wolverhampton agreed.

“I came to Mallorca in the last days of the transfer window and, because my mind was a little more here than here, I decided to go.”

Our take: Wolves mistake halted Sporting move

Chiquinho’s contract at Wolves expired at the end of the previous season and he was left as a free agent. This allowed Alvarca to sign for free in July 2025.

The Premier League team could perhaps earn a fee through its sale to Sporting in the summer of 2024.

However, their decision not to let him join the Primeira Liga team now feels like a mistake. The move could have benefited all parties, or at least Wolves and the player.

After playing his second game at Madison Square Garden, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren discussed the importance of playing in the Mecca following his 28 points in a 103–100 win against the New York Knicks. What Holmgren called playing at Madison Square Garden – “a hooper’s dream” – is true for many young NBA players.

Holmgren scored 22 of his 28 points in the first half and finished with six threes. The Thunder All-Star quickly found his offense before his team was able to hold off the Knicks.

“Just trying to find open space. From there, most of my teammates were looking at me and then hitting shots,” Holmgren said. “We’ve had a lot of close games. I felt like we did a pretty good job of getting into the right thing. We made enough plays on both ends to close it out. Obviously, they made some plays, too. They haven’t fully converted yet, and if they do, it’s a different-looking game. But that’s how basketball goes.

“Obviously, we want to get better. We want to keep getting better. Find out from this game how we can get better. It’s a tough league, and you always take wins. You never take it for granted. A win is a win.”

Perhaps it was the bright lights of MSG that helped Holmgren find his offensive rhythm in the Thunder’s three-point win against the Knicks.

Holmgren said, “It doesn’t matter if you have 100 points; it only counts as one win on the record. But it’s always nice to have a good game in the Mecca.” “I’ve only played here once, and I would say that’s definitely my best game at the Garden. So, it’s amazing. And on top of that, we were able to win the game, which is even better.”

Holmgren’s scoring was 11 of 19 from the floor, including 6 of 11 from deep, eight rebounds and two assists. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 26 points, eight assists and one steal.

Chet Holmgren’s win over Thunder on display vs. Knicks

After the Thunder lost Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein, All-Stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren led the defending champions to a close win on the road. Caruso suffered a left hip injury, and Hartenstein was also ruled out for the night with a left calf injury. Heading to Madison Square Garden, Holmgren says he can feel the positive spirit from his teammates, as the Thunder end their three-game road trip on a high note.

“Playing in the Garden is any hooper’s dream,” Holmgren said. “The juices were flowing, and we were ready to play.”

The Thunder, riding a four-game winning streak, will host the Warriors on Saturday.

The Atlanta Braves got more tough news on Tuesday, but it could open the door to a bold trade the club should seriously consider.

The past few weeks have been tough for the Braves. They entered 2026 spring training with legitimate expectations of being a problem in the NL East this season. However, they were immediately dealt a serious blow when it was revealed that Hurston Waldrep and Spencer Schwellenbach both required surgery on their pitching elbows, which could force them out for much, if not all, of this season.

Still, the bad news doesn’t end there. On Tuesday, ESPN first reported that outfielder Jurickson Profar would be handed a 162-game ban after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug. It is his second suspension after missing 80 games due to a positive test last year. However, there is a bright side to this news.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Braves will save $18 million as Profar serves his unpaid suspension. The 33-year-old was scheduled to earn $15 million, but they would save more because Atlanta was “above the luxury-tax threshold and paying 20 percent for every dollar they were over.”

Following this news, ESPN MLB insider Buster Olney suggested that the team could use the new money and try to target options to replace Schwellenbach and Waldrep. That would definitely make sense. However, they need to add an outfielder and a meaningful bat to the lineup.

Atlanta Braves should target Jaren Duran trade after Jurickson Profar’s suspension

That’s why it makes sense to trade for one-time All-Star Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox. The outfielder was linked to trade rumors throughout the offseason but remains in Beantown. Although the Sox may be willing to move him, the reason they won’t do so is because they want something meaningful in return because he is a good player and under team control until 2028.

The Braves are in need of an outfielder, and Duran would be a potential core member of their revamped lineup as well as a very affordable option for the next few seasons. They may have to part with one or two notable prospects in the deal. However, the price will be worth it to land a young impactful player who can be a meaningful part of a team that has a real chance to become the dark horse in the NL this year.

Plus, they’ll actually save money while getting better in the outfield or at designated hitter.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

According to the Turkish outlet, Tottenham Hotspur defender Kevin Denzo is once again on Besiktas’ radar, with a meeting already held and a summer approach being planned. fan.

Besiktas president Serdal Adali has identified the Spurs centre-back as Emmanuel Agbadou’s preferred partner next season, the report says.

The Istanbul side are already planning their defensive structure for 2026-27 and have turned their attention to north London.

Fanatic says the contact was first made during the winter window. However, the clubs failed to reach an agreement due to financial conditions.

Previous negotiations and financial background

Tottenham signed Danso from Lens in July 2025 for €25m (approximately £21.5m). This figure now outlines any possible interactions.

At the time of first contact, Besiktas were reportedly working with a valuation close to €20m (£17.2m). It appears that the difference was decisive in January.

Nevertheless, new reports claim that a meeting has taken place with the Austrian defender. Denso is said to be receptive to Besiktas’ project. That detail is important, even if it doesn’t reflect Tottenham’s situation yet.

There is no indication that Spurs are actively looking to sell. The story is inspired by the Turkish side, with Besiktas preparing to re-open discussions once the transfer window opens.

What’s next for Tottenham?

For Tottenham, the situation depends on squad planning and assessment. Spurs invested €25m (£21.5m) less than a year ago, which strengthens their negotiating position.

If Besiktas return in the summer, they will likely need to bridge the previous financial gap. Otherwise, Tottenham will have little incentive to sanction a move.

Furthermore, Denso has developed into a reliable man for Tottenham. He played a key role in last season’s Europa League title-winning campaign, offering consistency and leadership during the knockout stages.

As a result, any potential departure would not be straightforward. Losing a defender who contributed to European silverware would be a significant blow to the team’s depth and experience heading into another demanding season.

At this stage, it appears that the foundation stone has been laid in Turkey. According to Fanatic, the next step will come when the summer window officially opens and Besiktas will again knock on the door of Tottenham.

The Detroit Pistons’ winning streak reached five games after defeating the Chicago Bulls 126-110. However, the exchange of emotions after the game took away much of the headlines from Saturday’s game.

Saturday night’s matchup marked the first time the Pistons shared the court with former teammate Jaden Ivy since the former first-round pick was traded to Chicago at the NBA trade deadline. The entire Detroit team went to talk to Ivy and give her a very emotional hug.

After the game, Detroit center Jalen Duren was asked about his bond with Ivey.

“He’s my brother, man. I came into the league with him since day one. He’s been family forever, brother. He’s my favorite player, I love that guy,” Duren said, fighting back tears.

Detroit found itself in a difficult situation regarding Ivey’s future. He suffered a devastating foot injury against the Orlando Magic when guard Cole Anthony dived into his foot. He was taken off the floor on a stretcher and missed the rest of his third season.

After completing his rehab, Ivy suffered another injury setback during the preseason. He required another surgery to repair his knee problem in the 2025–26 season. Due to injuries, his game was greatly affected and his numbers dropped significantly. His once unstoppable speed had diminished and his high-profile athleticism didn’t look the same.

Rather than wait for a recovery, the Pistons opted to deal Ivey to the Bulls for forward Kevin Huerter. Ivy was playing in a contract year as a restricted free agent. Detroit decided to give Ivy a fresh start elsewhere rather than wait for his recovery to agree to a contract extension.

Before that injury Ivey was putting up career-high scoring numbers. The Pistons were seeing a significant scoring surge with 17.6 points per game on 46% shooting from the field and 40.9% shooting from 3-point range.

Ivey was drafted by the Pistons along with Duren in the first round during the 2022 NBA Draft. The former Purdue guard was selected No. 5 overall before Detroit took Duren at No. 13 overall.

Jalen Duren dominates in return to the lineup

The Pistons received another boost to their roster after Duran returned from suspension. After missing the last two games against the Charlotte Hornets due to a concussion, the Pistons’ All-Star center looked like he didn’t miss a step against the Bulls.

Duren was a major focal point of Detroit’s dominance in their road win. He scored 26 points and pulled down 13 rebounds, his 25th double-double of the season. Duran’s offensive rebounding continued at a high level, with six more against Chicago.

The Pistons are still without backup center Isaiah Stewart for the next four games because of the fight. Veteran big man Paul Reed again performed well in Stewart’s absence, scoring 15 points and grabbing nine rebounds.

All-Star point guard Cade Cunningham nearly finished the night with a triple-double. Cunningham scored 18 points, dished out 13 assists and grabbed nine rebounds. Forward Tobias Harris also added 18 points in 30 minutes. Guard Duncan Robinson had a hot shooting night with 17 points and five 3-pointers.

Fulham’s Kenny Tate has expressed his disappointment at Ajax signing him out of the club.

The Dutchman is talking to Viaplay and football news Has issued his comments on the threat of transfer.

Tete joined Fulham from Lyon in September 2020, when Scott Parker was in charge of the London club.

Tete played 140 matches for Marco Silva’s team. Last summer, he agreed to join Everton while Ajax reportedly showed interest in him. However, a move never materialized and he is still at Fulham.

Fulham player did not want to leave Ajax

Lyon signed the right-back from Ajax in 2017, and the Fulham man now admits he had no plans to leave the Eredivisie side.

The 30-year-old joined the Dutch club’s academy in 2005 and climbed into their ranks before breaking into the first team in 2013.

He made 55 appearances for the senior Ajax team, primarily as a right-sided defender and occasionally in other positions.

Peter Bosz was then the manager of the Dutch club and did not use Tete regularly during the 2016/17 season. To put this into context, he played 450 minutes in five league matches for Ajax.

Marcel Keizer replaced Bosz at the start of the 2017/18 season, when the current Fulham player had less than a year left on his contract.

Transfer threat for Fulham player

Tate spoke openly about Keizer’s threat, which caused him to reconsider his position. He joined the French club before leaving for the Premier League team in 2020.

“I didn’t want to renew my contract because I wasn’t playing. And then Bosz suddenly left,” He said.

“He [Keizer] Then said to me: Kenny, we sold you out. I think it was for Galatasaray [he left for Lyon] Do you want to finish your transfer quietly or are you going to train with Jong Ajax?

“Then I thought: What? I can’t just stay in the last year of my contract and see what happens? Or maybe a breath of fresh air will come, someone who sees potential in me?”

Soccer News claims the fullback ‘didn’t want to leave Ajax at all’ but now understands his decision.

“After all, Ajax is a business too, you know. At least the club gets something out of it. I thought it was a shame, but it was nice and clear, and I like it. No beating around the bush, no fuss. Then I can move on,” Tete explained.

“I really liked that. At that moment, I was definitely sad. Well, after those eleven years, I thought… but it’s a tough world. It was a business decision, and sometimes I have to take it that way. It is what it is.”

Wrestling fans love a good mystery, and WWE has one set for this month’s Elimination Chamber premium live event. On this week’s edition of WWE Raw, a mysterious box arrived on the Box Stage with a note that it would not be opened until February 28, which is the date of Elimination Chamber.

Ever since the mystery box arrived, there has been speculation about who or what would be inside it. With that in mind, we present six ideas for what WWE fans will find when the boxes open next Saturday.

Chris Jericho

Many fans and podcasters are hoping that the mystery box is somehow connected to the return of Chris Jericho. There have been rumors for several months that the WWE veteran’s AEW contract was set to expire at the end of 2025, and all signs were pointing towards a return to WWE this year. Bringing him back just in time for WrestleMania 42 makes sense.

However, a new report this week claims that he is still under contract with AEW after his contract expired last year. So the likelihood of him or anything related to him being in the box seems very slim.

denhausen

If there really is a person in the mystery box, it would make sense if they weren’t tied to real life. So it would require someone who has some supernatural elements in his character. That’s why it makes sense to have AEW veteran Danhausen in the box.

The box mirrors when Dracula is sent to England in the famous Bram Stoker book, and Danhausen is like a hilariously wrestling version of Nosferatu. If a creature is kept locked in that box for several weeks, it makes for a funny start to the beloved comedy-driven character.

New WWE Hardcore Championship

Many people have an assumption that the mystery box that is opened at the Elimination Chamber must contain a person, but it could be one thing, and that thing could be a new belt. However, instead of introducing a new title, it would not be surprising if the company brings back one of its former championships.

Considering how the box looks, the return of a hardcore title would be an ideal choice. That belt has long been a favorite among fans, but the type of matches it brought about was a unique aspect of the Attitude Era. Adding more violent matches to diversify the circus that is WWE and provide some talent a new path to fame would be a fun surprise on the road to WrestleMania.

‘Broken’ Matt Hardy and Brother Nero

Going back to the idea of ​​a character with supernatural elements in the mysterious box. The second option is the unexpected return of the legendary duo, the Hardy Boyz. Recently, Matt Hardy claimed that the tag team will be on WWE TV again in 2026 after making several appearances on NXT last year.

But what if they came back to the company this time because their “Broken Universe” alter ego? Hardy being in TNA, but then the “Broken” version in WWE could be a fun confrontation and offer something unique for both brands. The characters that could potentially clash with Wyatt Six at WrestleMania could be something that will be established by his return.

New WWE European Title

In the past year, WWE has pushed hard into Europe and has begun doing live editions of Raw and SmackDown in major European cities. They have brought in even more European prospects in recent years.

That’s why now could be the right time for the return of the European title. When it comes to possible options for what’s in the mystery box, one possibility is the title being “shipped from Europe” for its return to WWE TV.

evil

Another guy who would be a wise choice to stay inside the box is former IWGP Champion EVIL. The longtime NJPW star reportedly recently became a free agent, and rumors claim he is linked to WWE. There are also some supernatural elements in his character. Therefore, the company is focused on how to present him to a North American audience unfamiliar with his work.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos