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• Endrick’s brilliance at Lyon and for Brazil raises questions for Real Madrid management

  Brazilian sensation Endrick has sparked debate over Real Madrid’s transfer strategy after a dominant international performance while interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa secures the dressing room’s backing.

  ​Endrick sent a powerful message to Real Madrid’s hierarchy following a decisive performance in Brazil’s 3-1 friendly win over Croatia.

  Currently thriving on loan at Lyon, the teenager won a penalty and provided an assist, filling the void left by the injured Rodrygo.

  His display highlighted the perceived “malpractice” of former manager Xabi Alonso, who struggled to integrate the phenom before his recent departure.

  ​At the Bernabéu, interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa has reportedly won the locker room’s support to become the permanent head coach.

  Despite a rocky start, Arbeloa has secured 13 wins in 17 matches, including a notable comeback against Atletico Madrid.

  The squad’s preference could sway the board’s upcoming decision between Arbeloa and external candidates like Jurgen Klopp or Massimiliano Allegri this summer.

• “Robots are good, but magic is better” – Cherki on his mission to bring back beautiful football

  Rayan Cherki has declared a personal mission to prioritize creative “magic” over robotic tactical perfection as he prepares for his first World Cup with France.

  ​Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki has signaled his intent to bring “street football” back to the global stage ahead of France’s friendly against Brazil.

  The 22-year-old, viewed as Kevin De Bruyne’s successor at City, has contributed 19 goal involvements this season despite a complex relationship with Pep Guardiola’s structured system.

  “Robots are good, but magic is better,” Cherki told L’Equipe, emphasizing flair over pragmatic efficiency.

  ​With only four senior caps, Cherki has already become a central figure in Didier Deschamps’ World Cup plans.

  Despite facing criticism for his penchant for keep-ups and rabona crosses, the Frenchman remains unapologetic about his artistic approach.

  “Playing a perfect match, with 99% successful passes, is good, but producing one with five or six flashes of genius will always be better,” the midfielder added.

• Liverpool owners FSG make dramatic U-turn on multi-club model after looking at 25 teams

  Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) have reportedly abandoned their long-standing plan to acquire a second football club, leaving the long-term future of CEO of Football Michael Edwards shrouded in uncertainty.

  ​The strategic “U-turn” comes after FSG reportedly conducted extensive due diligence on over 25 potential clubs, including Spanish sides Getafe and Malaga, and French outfit Bordeaux.

  Despite early enthusiasm, the project has been deemed “dormant” due to a mix of financial caution and complex UEFA multi-club ownership regulations.

  This decision marks a significant shift for the Boston-based group, who previously viewed expansion as essential for remaining competitive globally.

  ​This development places Michael Edwards in a precarious position, as the commitment to a multi-club model was a primary factor in his 2024 return.

  Having already overseen a successful post-Klopp transition—including the appointment of Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot—Edwards now faces a redefined role without the expansionist remit he was promised.

  Speculation suggests his future at Anfield is now uncertain as the club pivots back to a single-team focus.

• Robert Pires makes Ethan Nwaneri claim amid Habib Beye arrival

  Robert Pires insists he’s not worried about Ethan Arsenal legend Robert Pires has dismissed concerns regarding Ethan Nwaneri’s loan spell at Marseille following a managerial change, insisting the teenager will thrive under new head coach Habib Beye.

  ​Robert Pires has voiced strong support for Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri following the departure of Roberto De Zerbi from Marseille.

  Despite the managerial upheaval, Pires believes the 18-year-old’s technical quality remains undeniable.

  “The English aren’t afraid of anything,” Pires stated, noting that new boss Habib Beye’s English proficiency and playing experience in the Premier League will facilitate a smooth transition for the youngster.

  ​Nwaneri recently made a substitute appearance in Beye’s first game, signaling a potential shift in momentum after being sidelined during a brief interim period.

  Under the terms of the deal, Marseille’s loan fee could rise to €4m if Nwaneri lacks regular minutes.

  Pires remains optimistic about the partnership, remarking, “Over the last three months, Habib Beye can bring him something – and vice versa.”

• Rayan Cherki reflects on Pep Guardiola’s assessment of his style

  Rayan Cherki has praised Pep Guardiola’s high-intensity coaching and his natural chemistry with Erling Haaland as key factors in his successful first six months at Manchester City.

  Rayan Cherki has credited Pep Guardiola’s tactical philosophy as the primary motivation behind his summer move to Manchester City.

  The 22-year-old arrived at the Etihad from Lyon last Rayan Cherki has credited Pep Guardiola’s tactical philosophy as the primary motivation behind his summer move to Manchester City.

  The 22-year-old Frenchman, who joined from Lyon, has quickly integrated into the squad, tallying seven assists and four goals in 18 appearances.

  Speaking on his adaptation, Cherki noted: “Pep has always been my vision of football. Ever since I entered the professional world, Pep has always been the vision of football that I had in my head.”

  ​Beyond the manager’s influence, Cherki highlighted his burgeoning on-field chemistry with striker Erling Haaland.

  The playmaker attributed their “instant connection” to their shared personalities and similar approach to the game.

  Off the pitch, the duo’s rapport has translated into a lethal partnership that has helped City maintain second place in the Premier League.

  Cherki remarked, “If they hit it off the pitch, they’re bound to hit it on it, and we’re very happy with that relationship.”

  ​Looking toward the second half of the season, the French international expressed immense confidence in City’s pursuit of silverware.

  Currently trailing league leaders Arsenal by four points, the squad remains active in the Champions League and the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

  Cherki emphasized his commitment to entertaining the Etihad crowd while maintaining clinical efficiency, stating: “It’s all about being effective and to give pleasure to my team-mates, to give pleasure to the fans.”