Raphinha only thinks about Barça
According to SportRaphinha confirmed his total commitment to Barça, where he has become indispensable in recent weeks for the team’s play and results. With a contract until 2028, extended to 2025, the Brazilian refuses to listen to offers, even attractive ones from the Saudi League, and is aiming for titles at the club as well as a World Cup with Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil. Raphinha has decided to focus on continuity, already discussing improvements internally with sports management. At Barça, we anticipated his loyalty: his presence avoided an urgent search for a similar offensive replacement. The club is focusing on a centre-forward and the permanent recruitment of Rashford, while a contract renewal for Raphinha is not ruled out soon.
More than a final in England
It’s final day today between Arsenal and Manchester City in the Carabao Cup and the English media are impatiently awaiting this clash. “Grunt, stumble”headlines the Daily Star. Rúben Dias has warned that Arsenal will not be able to worry Man City from set pieces in the final. He believes that aerial duels and blocks in the box have changed the game, but that City will adapt to these new trends. This final at Wembley is an opportunity for the two rivals to send a strong message in the race for titles this season. “Change of course” for the Daily Mirror. At Wembley in the Carabao Cup final, the Gunners’ defensive superiority and set-pieces could make the difference against City. A victory could knock out Guardiola and hasten the end of his SkyBlues era. “More than a trophy at stake” for the Manchester Evening News. Arsenal enter the match as favorites, with a 9-point lead in the Premier League over their opponent of the day. But a City victory would boost their confidence for the end of the season and could sow doubt among Arsenal. For the Londoners, this trophy would put an end to the title drought which has lasted since 2020. The winner will gain a mental advantage in the title race.
The puzzle of Álvaro Arbeloa
Álvaro Arbeloa, coach of Real Madrid, faces a headache with the return of Mbappé and Bellingham in a Real Madrid that is finally balanced and competitive. Brahim Díaz shone in false 9, bringing mobility and balance, but his role could change with the Frenchman. Bellingham expands the options in the middle, without ousting Thiago Pitarch, whose performances have solidified the team. Arbeloa insists on collective adaptation: attacking and defending all together, to integrate the stars without breaking the dynamic before the derby.
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