Today's top global international football news, transfers and more - 20th Jan

Catch Up On Today's Top Global International Football News.

The tantalising prospect of seeing Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Luis Suárez reunited on the pitch, this time for Inter Miami in MLS, has suffered a significant blow. According to reports from the reputable Brazilian outlet, Diario Do Peixe, Neymar’s return to Santos is all but confirmed. The Brazilian superstar is set to don the iconic Santos jersey once more on a six-month loan from Al-Hilal, leaving Inter Miami and Messi without the opportunity to recreate the legendary MSN. This news, pending official confirmation, is a significant setback for the American club’s ambitions and the hopes of fans worldwide to witness this magical trio in action.

A Summer of Dreams in Miami: The Reunion Fantasy The summer in Miami had been filled with optimism following Lionel Messi’s arrival. The Argentine superstar’s mere presence caused a revolution at the club and in MLS, capturing the attention of the global football community. This was further fuelled by the signing of Luis Suárez, another former Barcelona teammate of Messi, rekindling memories of their successful partnership.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino voiced his condemnation following racist abuse targeted at Alejandro Balde during Barcelona’s away game against Getafe in LaLiga. The incident, which the young defender himself reported after the match, has reignited the conversation around racism in football.

"I am horrified by the racist insults directed at Barcelona player Alejandro Balde during the La Liga match against Getafe," Infantino posted on Instagram. Accompanying the statement was a black-and-white image of Balde, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue.

A Firm Stance Against Racism

Infantino underlined the need for unity in eradicating racism from football and society, stating: "Racism is a scourge that we must combat together to defeat. No to racism. No to any form of discrimination." His remarks came after Balde shared his experiences during a post-match interview with Movistar+, where he openly condemned the abuse he endured.

The rivalry between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid goes far beyond the pitch. Madrid derbies are always charged with tension, controversy, and verbal exchanges that further fuel this historic animosity. This time, the focus of the contention is Diego Simeone’s remarks regarding alleged pro-Real Madrid bias in refereeing decisions, and Dani Ceballos’s cutting response, who didn’t hesitate to directly target the Argentine manager: “I think he’s still not over those two finals he lost to Real Madrid.”

Simeone’s words, while not explicitly accusing anyone of corruption, implied a grievance about Real Madrid’s supposed influence on refereeing decisions. The Argentine manager, known for his passionate character and outspoken comments, cast doubt on the impartiality of officials in matches involving Los Blancos.

The Argentine football transfer market could be about to witness one of its most impactful moments. According to renowned journalist César Luis Merlo, Newell's Old Boys, one of Argentina's historic clubs, are in advanced negotiations to sign Keylor Navas, the experienced Costa Rican goalkeeper with a distinguished career in European football.

The news has generated enormous excitement among Argentine football fans, who see Navas's potential arrival as a top-quality addition to the league. The goalkeeper, with successful spells at clubs of the stature of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, would bring an injection of prestige and experience to the local championship.

Negotiations between Newell's and Keylor Navas's representatives have been ongoing for over two weeks, according to Merlo. The Rosario club have made a formal offer to the goalkeeper, and a key factor in the negotiations is that the salary Newell's are offering Navas is considered "payable," meaning it fits within the club's financial capabilities.

However, despite the progress in negotiations, one fundamental step is still needed to finalise the agreement: Keylor Navas's own "green light." The Costa Rican goalkeeper must give his final approval for his arrival in Argentine football to be completed. If the signing is finalised, Navas would sign a one-year contract with Newell's.

Manchester City's recent transfer activity has once again placed the club's wage structure under the microscope. The stark contrast between the reported salaries of outgoing striker Julián Álvarez and incoming forward Omar Marmoush has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.

The football world has been shaken by the news of Neymar Jr.'s return to Santos, the club where he first emerged as a star. Beyond the sentimental value, this return isn't just a simple loan. It's a strategic six-month deal, with the possibility of extending it until the 2026 World Cup, that promises to revolutionise the structure of the Brazilian club. UOL Esporte has revealed crucial details of this negotiation, which go far beyond sporting matters.

The initial contractual link is for six months, a window that allows Neymar to regain competitive rhythm and prepare in the best way for upcoming challenges, possibly including the 2026 World Cup. However, the true significance of the agreement lies in the clauses that accompany it.

Neymar not only returns to Santos as a player, but also becomes a strategic business partner. This role grants him participation in decisions and, even more significantly, joint ventures with the club. This strategic alliance opens a range of commercial possibilities, boosting the Santos brand globally and generating new revenue streams.

But the transformation doesn't end there. The agreement with Neymar contemplates the possibility of Santos becoming a Sociedade Anônima do Futebol (SAF). This legal structure, increasingly common in modern football, implies a professionalisation in the club's management, attracting investment and optimising administration.

FC Barcelona remains keen to offload Frenkie de Jong this summer as the club looks to balance its books. The Dutch midfielder, despite his undeniable talent, has been a subject of transfer speculation due to his injury record and the significant financial burden he represents for the club.

Jong, who has been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou for some time, turned down a lucrative offer from Manchester United last summer, reportedly worth around €80 million. However, his market value has since declined, and Barcelona are now willing to accept a lower fee.

A recent bid from AC Milan, worth €35 million, was swiftly rejected by the Catalan giants, who are holding out for a fee closer to €45 million. The club's sporting director, Deco, has made it clear that they will not accept any offer below their valuation.

Barcelona's decision to sell De Jong is driven by a number of factors, including the need to raise funds for new signings and to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. The club has been actively pursuing a number of transfer targets this summer, but their ability to do so is limited by their financial constraints.

De Jong has been a divisive figure among Barcelona fans in recent seasons. While his talent is undeniable, his performances have been inconsistent, and his high wages have made him a target for criticism. If the club is unable to sell him this summer, it is possible that he will be allowed to leave on a free transfer next year.

Santos FC is pulling out all the stops to lure their prodigal son, Neymar Jr., back to Brazil. The Brazilian club is reportedly offering the Paris Saint-Germain star a contract that rivals the lavish deal Cristiano Ronaldo signed with Al-Nassr, including a significant equity stake in the club.

According to sources close to the negotiations, Santos is prepared to make Neymar one of the highest-paid players in the world and offer him a significant stake in the club. This would not only secure his services but also position him as a key stakeholder in the future of Santos FC.

Beyond the financial incentives, Santos is also exploring the possibility of transforming into a Sociedade Anônima do Futebol (SAF), a corporate structure that would allow for greater financial flexibility and attract significant investment. By becoming a shareholder, Neymar would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the club he once called home.

Cristiano Ronaldo, currently playing for the Saudi club Al-Nassr, could be on the verge of extending his contract for an additional year. Adding fuel to the rumor mill is the possibility that Ronaldo may acquire a 5% stake in the team, elevating his involvement to that of both player and part-owner.

Al-Nassr is one of the four powerhouse clubs in Saudi Arabia owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), a sovereign wealth fund led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This elite group includes Al-Hilal, home to Neymar, Al-Ahli, featuring Mahrez and Firmino, and Al-Ittihad, which boasts stars like Benzema and Kanté. These clubs represent a footballing revolution funded by some of the deepest pockets in the world.

Lamine Yamal, the prodigious young talent who has captured the hearts of Barcelona fans, appears to be firmly committed to his boyhood club. Recent social media speculation suggesting a potential move to Real Madrid has been met with a resounding dismissal from those close to the player.

Content creator Rodrigo Quesada ignited a flurry of rumors when he digitally placed Yamal in a Real Madrid jersey, accompanied by the caption "It's going to happen." The image quickly went viral, sparking intense debate among football fans. While the thought of one of Barcelona's brightest prospects donning the white of Real Madrid was tantalizing for some, it seems highly unlikely to materialize.

Despite the allure of a move to the Spanish capital, Barcelona has taken significant steps to secure Yamal's long-term future at the club. The Catalan giants are on the verge of finalizing a new contract with the young winger, which is expected to include a mammoth release clause of €1 billion. This astronomical figure would effectively make any move to a rival club financially prohibitive.

Lionel Messi, a global football superstar, finds himself once again at the centre of controversy following a friendly match between his current team, Inter Miami, and Club America of Mexico. What was supposed to be a pre-season friendly ended up igniting a controversy involving gestures, boos, and the strong reaction of a Mexican football icon: Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista.

The match, played on US soil, was characterised by a hostile atmosphere towards Messi from the outset. The Club America fans, with boos and chants, showed their displeasure towards the Argentine star, perhaps recalling the historical rivalry between the Mexican and Argentine national teams, and Argentina's recent victory at the 2022 World Cup.

Amid this tense climate, Messi scored a goal that sparked the controversy. Far from celebrating with restraint, the Argentine star responded to the boos with a gesture that did not go unnoticed: showing three fingers, in clear allusion to the three World Cup championships won by Argentina, contrasting them with Mexico's lack of World Cup titles. This gesture was interpreted by many as a direct provocation towards the Mexican fans.

Cristiano Ronaldo, the global football icon, is reportedly considering a surprising move that could shake the world of sports. According to multiple sources, Ronaldo has turned down a lucrative contract extension from Al Nassr, the Saudi Arabian club that made him the highest-paid athlete on the planet. This decision comes as a shock to many, as the new deal would have seen Ronaldo earn a staggering $180 million per year.

The Portuguese superstar's decision to potentially forego such a massive payday is puzzling to some, but it is believed to be driven by his desire for sporting success. Sources close to Ronaldo suggest that he is not satisfied with the current state of Al Nassr and believes that the team needs significant reinforcements to become a true contender in both domestic and continental competitions.

Neymar's departure from Al Hilal has sparked a wave of speculation about who will replace him. In this context, according to BOLAVIP, the Saudi club has set its sights on one of Real Madrid's young stars: Rodrygo Goes. This news has shaken the football world and raises questions about the Brazilian's future and the strategies of both clubs. Is Rodrygo the chosen one to fill the void left by Neymar? Is Real Madrid willing to let go of one of their prized assets?

The Search for a Neymar Successor:

Neymar's exit from Al Hilal, whether due to poor performance, injuries, or contractual differences (according to various sources), has left a significant gap in the team's attack. The Saudi club, with big ambitions and financial resources, has launched a search for a guaranteed replacement who can provide flair, talent, and, above all, goals.

Pep Guardiola, who is usually very private about his personal life, has made headlines due to his recent separation from his long-time partner, Cristina Serra. The couple, who had been together for over three decades, decided to end their relationship in December.

A privileged location and an imposing architecture The impressive mansion is located in the Pedralbes neighborhood, near the Carretera de les Aigües, on the mountain of Sant Pere Màrtir, an environment that combines the tranquility of nature with panoramic views of Barcelona. Natural light plays an essential role in the design of this 741 m² house, which is built on a plot of 2,114 m².

The house, distributed over four floors of 179, 172, 172 and 46 square meters respectively, stands out for its modern style with Mediterranean touches. The white facade and large windows reflect the sunlight, while the gardens that surround the house guarantee the privacy of its occupants.

Manchester City’s recent moves in the transfer market have caused ripples throughout the Premier League. With reports of January spending exceeding £100 million and a record-breaking contract extension for Erling Haaland, fears of financial dominance are growing. The Norwegian striker is now tied to the club on one of the most lucrative deals in sports history, with no release clauses remaining.

This level of investment has left Liverpool fans anxious, particularly after their own transfer outlay in recent years. Many believe City’s actions suggest confidence in avoiding significant penalties from the ongoing investigation into their alleged financial breaches.

Haaland's Contract Raises Questions

Haaland’s new deal reportedly locks him in for nine-and-a-half years at £500,000 per week, amounting to nearly £250 million. While this secures one of the world’s top talents for the long term, it’s a significant gamble. Haaland, though a phenomenal player, has faced injury issues in the past, and critics question whether he can sustain his form into his 30s.

Manchester United's manager, Rubén Amorim, did not hold back after his team suffered a defeat at Old Trafford against Brighton. Speaking candidly in the post-match press conference, the Portuguese coach labeled his squad as "the worst team in the history of Manchester United," acknowledging the poor run of form since his appointment in November.

"We are undoubtedly the worst team in Manchester United's history right now," Amorim stated. "We must face this reality and work to change it. There’s your headline," he added, addressing the press directly. Under his tenure, United has won only three of their eleven Premier League matches, a statistic that has deepened the frustration among fans and critics alike.

The comparison between Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele has fueled debates for decades in the football world. These two players defined their respective eras, breaking records and leaving legacies that seem unmatched. While one thrived on a global stage with the rise of media, the other dominated during an era where raw talent spoke for itself. Below, we analyze their statistics and achievements based on data updated through 2025.

Goals and assists

Cristiano Ronaldo, with a career that has pushed the limits of longevity in football, has reached the historic milestone of 900 official goals, making him the all-time top scorer in the sport’s history. In contrast, Pele scored 767 goals in official competitions according to verified records, standing out as an icon of efficiency during his era.

In assists, Pele surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo with 361 recorded assists compared to Ronaldo’s 283. This showcases the playmaking abilities of both players, albeit in different proportions.

Mauricio Pochettino, the coach of the United States national football team, expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi’s presence in the MLS, describing it as a significant privilege for the country. Following the 3-1 victory over Venezuela in a friendly match at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where Messi’s Inter Miami plays its home games, Pochettino highlighted the monumental impact of having the global icon in the league.

"This is an incredible project. Miami and MLS are incredibly lucky to have Leo Messi. It’s something amazing; he is the number one in the world and has won eight Ballon d'Ors. Watching him play is a spectacle. Having him here is a privilege for the United States," Pochettino said during the post-match press conference.

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, globally known as CR7, was born on February 5, 1985, in Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira. From his modest beginnings, Ronaldo has risen to become one of the most renowned and successful football players in history. His story is a testament to determination, talent, and perseverance.

Childhood in Madeira

A humble home in Santo Antonio

Cristiano grew up in the Santo Antonio neighborhood, one of Funchal's poorest areas. The youngest child of Maria Dolores dos Santos Viveiros, a cook, and Jose Dinis Aveiro, a municipal gardener and kit man for the Andorinha football club, Ronaldo shared a room with his three older siblings: Hugo, Elma, and Liliana Catia. His middle name, "Ronaldo," was chosen by his father in honor of then-U.S. President Ronald Reagan, whom he admired.

Early steps in local football

At the age of 7, Cristiano joined Club de Futebol Andorinha, where his father worked. It was there that his talent and passion for football began to shine. In 1995, he moved to Clube Desportivo Nacional, one of Madeira's top teams, where he continued to develop his skills.

The football world is abuzz with news that once seemed a distant dream for Santos fans: Neymar Jr. is returning to wear the Peixe shirt! According to reports from the respected Brazilian outlet, Diario Do Peixe, the Brazilian star is heading back home in an unprecedented agreement with his current club, Al Hilal. The loan, which will run until mid-year, marks a milestone in Brazilian football history and generates enormous anticipation surrounding the prodigal son's return to the club where he made his name.

Neymar Jr.'s future has been a constant source of discussion in the football world. Following a period at Al-Hilal marked by inconsistency and speculation about his future, the possibility of a return to his roots – Santos FC – has emerged strongly. The Brazilian club, where he first rose to stardom, is reportedly exploring two avenues to make this hoped-for reunion a reality: a short-term loan or a permanent transfer.

This news has sparked a wave of excitement among Santos fans and Brazilian football followers in general. The idea of seeing Neymar Jr. once again wearing the "Peixe" (Fish) shirt evokes memories of his explosive debut and the magic he displayed in his early professional years. But how feasible are these options? What would this potential return mean for Neymar and for Santos?

Olimpia, the reigning champions of Paraguayan football, announced the sad news on Saturday regarding the death of Carlos Jorge Palermo, the father of their Argentine head coach, Martín Palermo. The club expressed its condolences to the Palermo family through a heartfelt message on social media, offering their full support during this difficult time.

"Olimpia stands with you, Titan! We regret to inform the passing of Mr. Carlos Jorge Palermo, father of our current coach," the club shared on the X platform as they prepare to begin the 2025 Apertura Tournament on January 24th.

In honor of the loss, Olimpia declared a two-day period of mourning and encouraged the "Olimpista Community" to join in a moment of reflection and respect. The club showed its solidarity with Martín Palermo, offering their deepest condolences to his family and friends.

The sadness was shared by other football institutions as well. Argentine club Boca Juniors, where Palermo played as a forward from 1997 to 2011, also sent their support. "We stand with Martín and his family, sending our love and sincere condolences on behalf of all Xeneizes," Boca Juniors posted.

Cristiano Ronaldo, renowned for his exceptional talent and longevity in elite football, has faced several injuries throughout his career. These challenges have tested not only his physical resilience but also his mental strength, repeatedly demonstrating his ability to overcome obstacles and return to peak competitive performance.

In 2014, Ronaldo dealt with patellar tendinitis in his left leg, an inflammation of the knee tendon that affected his performance in the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Despite medical advice to rest, his determination to compete led him to participate, albeit with reduced effectiveness. Later, with Real Madrid, he underwent a 17-day recovery period, missing two official matches.