⚽ Mudryk cleared to return after doping ban resolved
Mykhailo Mudryk is available to play for Chelsea immediately after the Court of Arbitration for Sport partially upheld his appeal against a four-year ban, ending an absence stretching back to November 2024.
The 25-year-old had been provisionally suspended after an adverse finding for banned substance meldonium. CAS ruled he could return after accepting anti-doping rule violations and agreeing to a suspension equivalent to time already served.
The FA confirmed that changes in scientific reporting standards mean Mudryk's sample concentration "would not have been reported" under today's testing requirements. Chelsea welcomed that acknowledgement, stating it "allows everyone involved to move forward." The Blues signed the Ukrainian winger from Shakhtar Donetsk for £88m in January 2023.
✍️ Arsenal believe they're well-placed to sign Vinicius Jr
Arsenal reportedly consider themselves in a "very good position" to sign Vinicius Junior — but only if the Brazilian forward fails to agree a new contract with Real Madrid.
The 24-year-old is among the most coveted players in world football, and his future at the Bernabéu remains unresolved. According to reports, the Gunners are monitoring the situation closely and would move if talks between Vinicius and Madrid break down.
AC Milan and Italy icon Franco Baresi has passed away at the age of 66 following a prolonged illness, the Serie A club confirmed on Friday morning.
"The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi," the club said in a statement. "His example and integrity will be forever etched into the Club's history."
One of the most decorated defenders of his generation, Baresi won three Champions League titles with Milan and lifted the World Cup with Italy in 1982. His No. 6 shirt was retired by the club in his honour. Tributes have poured in from across world football for the man widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders to have played the game.
✍️ Liverpool contact Gilberto Mora as PSG circle Mexico teenager
Liverpool have made direct contact over a move for 17-year-old Mexican winger Gilberto Mora, with PSG also reportedly interested in the World Cup breakout star, according to reports.
Mora, valued at around £20m, is said to have attracted attention from Europe's top clubs following his performances on the international stage. Liverpool appear to be moving early in the race to secure the teenager.
🚨 Eddie Howe leaves Newcastle United as head coach
Eddie Howe has departed Newcastle United as head coach with immediate effect after five years at St James' Park, the club has confirmed. The 48-year-old is said to be stepping down to take a break from football.
Howe came under pressure last season as Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League, losing 17 of their 38 league games. His final match in charge was a 4-1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City.
According to reports, a replacement has already been identified, with Al-Ahli's coach linked with the role. Further details on the successor are expected imminently.