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Alexis Saelemaekers and Ismael Bennacer scored their first goals for in-form Milan as they thrashed Bologna 5-1 to go sixth in Serie A.

The Rossoneri extended their unbeaten run to nine matches to stay on course for a Europa League spot, outclassing their former coach Sinisa Mihajlovic's Bologna side at San Siro on Saturday.

Saelemaekers put them in front and Hakan Calhanoglu capitalised on a howler from goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski to double the Rossoneri's lead as they knocked the ball around with a swagger.

Takehiro Tomiyasu pulled one back late in the first half with a rasping strike, but goals from Bennacer and Ante Rebic in the space of eight minutes put Milan out of sight.

Davide Calabria added a fifth in the closing stages to cap a magnificent performance from Milan.

Milan swarmed forward from the start and they were in front after 10 minutes, Rebic showing great trickery before backheeling to the onrushing Theo Hernandez, whose cross was fired into the far corner first time by Saelemaekers after a clever dummy from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Rebic came close before Skorupski gifted Milan a second goal, the goalkeeper’s attempted clearance following a backpass from Riccardo Orsolini allowing Calhanoglu to drill home 24 minutes in.

Milan were rampant and Franck Kessie rattled the post, but Bologna were back in it courtesy of a great finish from Tomiyasu, who cut inside and fired into the top corner from 20 yards just before half-time.

The Rossoneri resumed control after the break, though, Bennacer slotting home after being played in by Calhanoglu and Rebic turning sharply before finishing with his left foot after 57 minutes having been set up by Ibrahimovic.

Kessie had a shot cleared off the line and Federico Santander was unable to pull one back with an indirect free-kick inside the penalty area at the other end.

Calabria then swept home his first goal of the season in stoppage time to round off a brilliant move involving Rafael Leao and put the icing on the cake.
 

What does it mean? Rampant Milan close in on Europe
 
Milan have not lost since the season resumed and on the evidence of this performance, they should be playing European football next season with four games to play.

Stefano Pioli's men were a joy to watch, causing the Bologna defence all sorts of problems and they have won six of their last nine matches without defeat. Bologna are heading for a mid-table finish.

Rebic oozes class

Rebic tormented the visitors in a brilliant performance, finding pockets of space and linking up well with Ibrahimovic. He created six chances in the match, more than double anyone else on the pitch.

The Croatia forward turned Danilo inside-out in the build-up to the opening goal and could easily have had more than one of his own, a strike which took him to 12 goals since the start of 2020.

Danilo all at sea

It was a tough night for Danilo as Bologna were unable to live with the passing and movement of a Milan side brimming with confidence. The Brazilian was withdrawn just before the hour-mark after being run ragged.

What's next?

A trip to eighth-placed Sassuolo is Milan's next assignment on Tuesday, when Bologna are on the road again at high-flying Atalanta.

Alexis Saelemaekers and Ismael Bennacer scored their first goals for in-form Milan as they thrashed Bologna 5-1 to go sixth in Serie A.

The Rossoneri extended their unbeaten run to nine matches to stay on course for a Europa League spot, outclassing their former coach Sinisa Mihajlovic's Bologna side at San Siro on Saturday.

Saelemaekers put them in front and Hakan Calhanoglu capitalised on a howler from goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski to double the Rossoneri's lead as they knocked the ball around with a swagger.

Takehiro Tomiyasu pulled one back late in the first half with a rasping strike, but goals from Bennacer and Ante Rebic in the space of eight minutes put Milan out of sight.

Davide Calabria added a fifth in the closing stages to cap a magnificent performance from Milan.

Milan swarmed forward from the start and they were in front after 10 minutes, Rebic showing great trickery before backheeling to the onrushing Theo Hernandez, whose cross was fired into the far corner first time by Saelemaekers after a clever dummy from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Rebic came close before Skorupski gifted Milan a second goal, the goalkeeper’s attempted clearance following a backpass from Riccardo Orsolini allowing Calhanoglu to drill home 24 minutes in.

Milan were rampant and Franck Kessie rattled the post, but Bologna were back in it courtesy of a great finish from Tomiyasu, who cut inside and fired into the top corner from 20 yards just before half-time.

The Rossoneri resumed control after the break, though, Bennacer slotting home after being played in by Calhanoglu and Rebic turning sharply before finishing with his left foot after 57 minutes having been set up by Ibrahimovic.

Kessie had a shot cleared off the line and Federico Santander was unable to pull one back with an indirect free-kick inside the penalty area at the other end.

Calabria then swept home his first goal of the season in stoppage time to round off a brilliant move involving Rafael Leao and put the icing on the cake.
 

What does it mean? Rampant Milan close in on Europe
 
Milan have not lost since the season resumed and on the evidence of this performance, they should be playing European football next season with four games to play.

Stefano Pioli's men were a joy to watch, causing the Bologna defence all sorts of problems and they have won six of their last nine matches without defeat. Bologna are heading for a mid-table finish.

Rebic oozes class

Rebic tormented the visitors in a brilliant performance, finding pockets of space and linking up well with Ibrahimovic. He created six chances in the match, more than double anyone else on the pitch.

The Croatia forward turned Danilo inside-out in the build-up to the opening goal and could easily have had more than one of his own, a strike which took him to 12 goals since the start of 2020.

Danilo all at sea

It was a tough night for Danilo as Bologna were unable to live with the passing and movement of a Milan side brimming with confidence. The Brazilian was withdrawn just before the hour-mark after being run ragged.

What's next?

A trip to eighth-placed Sassuolo is Milan's next assignment on Tuesday, when Bologna are on the road again at high-flying Atalanta.

Mikel Arteta is hopeful Arsenal's 2-0 win over Manchester City in their FA Cup semi-final on Saturday will convince Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to re-sign. 

The Gunners' captain scored in either half at Wembley as Arteta's side progressed to a record 21st FA Cup final in the same week they also beat Premier League champions Liverpool 2-1. 

Aubameyang's future at Arsenal has been the subject of increasing speculation over the past few months with the Gabon international contracted until the end of next season. 

Arteta is keen to lock down his star attacker to a new contract and feels his side's win over City might be exactly what Aubameyang needed to see. 

“Hopefully it will help him to be more convinced we are going in the right direction," Arteta told BBC Sport of Aubameyang post-match. 

“We’ve had an incredible week to beat the best two teams in Europe, it doesn’t happen every day.

“I don’t care who plays, I can trust them - we made changes ad everyone was ready. We had to suffer in many moments. We had to be really well organised and minimise the spaces."

On facing off against former mentor Pep Guardiola, Arteta added: “I high-fived him after the game and wished him luck. I love him like yesterday or this morning the same way."

While Arteta was thrilled with the win on Saturday, the Spaniard admitted it was bittersweet considering no fans were in attendance as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 

"I'm extremely happy and proud of the players. I'm sad that we can't enjoy this moment with our fans," Arteta told BT Sport. 

"That's what you need against this team. You have to make the most of the opportunities and put everybody on the line. They are the best team in Europe in the way they play positionally.

"There's a great chemistry between them [Arsenal players] and they believe in what we are trying to do and you can see that. Congratulations to them.

"They [Man City] are really good on the high press, as we are as well. We gave the ball away in dangerous situations and they are good in that transition moment but the first goal was really great. There are some things that we are trying to close down."

Villarreal have confirmed Santi Cazorla will leave the LaLiga club and Bruno Soriano is to retire after Sunday's clash with Elbar.

Cazorla has made a big impact in his third spell with the Yellow Submarine since returning in 2018 after a serious Achilles injury.

The 35-year-old playmaker, who did not play for 636 days prior to his comeback two years ago, has scored 11 goals and provided nine assists in the Spanish top flight this season.

Cazorla will play his last game for the club this weekend, though, and has been linked with a move to Qatari club Al Sadd - coached by former Barcelona captain Xavi.

It has also been reported that Cazorla could take up a coaching role with Arsenal, but a switch to Qatar looks more likely for a player who earned a Spain recall last year.

Cazorla told Villarreal TV ahead of his final appearance: "Villarreal have given me everything. When I was 18, they gave me all the confidence.

"A guy from Oviedo who was unknown almost for everyone."

The former Spain international joined Villarreal as a teenager from Real Oviedo, and returned to the Castellon side in 2007 following a short spell with Recreativo. 

His sterling performances made him a regular in the Rojo line-up, with Cazorla forming part of the squads which lifted the 2008 and 2012 European Championships, and also caught the eye of other clubs, with a move to Malaga leading to Arsenal swooping for the midfielder in the summer of 2012. 

He enjoyed five seasons in north London before injury intervened, but managed to rebuild his career back at the Yellow Submarine and was almost ever-present for the club in their last two Liga campaigns.

Long-serving skipper Soriano will also  make an emotional swansong on the final day of the season at El Madrigal.

The 36-year-old, a one-club man, has made over 300 appearances for Villarreal since making his debut 14 years ago.

"What I am going to be, for now, it is being the fan number one of Villarreal. Villarreal will be part of my life forever." he said.

Andy Robertson has pieced together a five-a-side team made up of his Liverpool team-mates and taken great joy in annoying Mohamed Salah by leaving the Egyptian forward out of his side.

The Scottish full-back is among those revelling in Liverpool's Premier League title triumph, the side's first crown in the English top flight for three decades.

Several talismanic figures have contributed to that triumph, with Jurgen Klopp having pieced together a star-studded squad.

Salah forms part of that pack, with the 28-year-old having contributed a remarkable haul of 94 goals through his 150 appearances for Liverpool.

The forward was nevertheless overlooked by Robertson for small-sided action on Merseyside.

The Reds defender has made a number of predictable picks in his side, with there obvious choices to fill roles between the sticks and at the back.

He was blessed with a wealth of options from which to choose when it comes to attacking berths, and a player Robertson considers to be “one of the best in the world” got the nod.

Piecing together his five-a-side team on The Lockdown Tactics podcast, the 26-year-old said: “Alisson in goal for obvious reasons, you're not getting any better than him.

“Virgil van Dijk at the back, you can't get by him at 11-a-side never mind five-a-side, there's not a chance.

“I'll play a diamond and will go Bobby Firmino, technically one of the best players I've ever played with. Five-a-side suits him to a tee, he'd be perfect for that.

“I would put in Jordan Henderson. Technically he is one of the most underrated players I've ever worked with.

“People never question his hard work and all that, but when I first went into Liverpool he blew me away. Hendo technically is exceptional.

“Then I will go with the boy who plays in front of me, Sadio Mane. He brings a bit of pace, he brings the goals.”

Robertson added: “I'll put him in ahead of Mo, just because I know it will annoy Mo Salah and that's perfect for me!

“But really, me and Sadio have a fantastic relationship. As long as I give him the ball, he's happy. As long as I do overlaps, he's happy, but I don't get much back.

“He actually calls me 'decoy' at Melwood - he doesn't even know what it means! Sadio is one of the best in the world.”

Sheffield United may have swooped for another goalkeeper this summer, but they are not giving up on retaining the services of Dean Henderson for another season. 

The on-loan Manchester United shot-stopper has made a huge impression at Bramall Lane since joining at the start of 2018-19. 

He was ever-present in the Blades net as they gained automatic promotion from the Championship, and has continued to shine as they battle for a place in Europe in their first term back amongst the Premier League elite. 

Such form has seen the 23-year-old mentioned as the successor to David de Gea in the Red Devils' net, with reports indicating that his parent club may recall him for the coming campaign. 

But, despite moving to sign fellow keeper Wes Foderingham, Blades boss Chris Wilder would love to see Henderson line up for his side for a while longer. 

"Dean and Manchester United know our views on that, we already have started talking to the player and Manchester United," Wilder told reporters on Saturday. 

"It is their decision and the boy's decision, we would love to extend that for another season and when we get the news on that decision we will let you know.

"Wes was available, we needed to strengthen that department, there will be a couple of changes going forward in that department. He became available, a free transfer and a three-year deal."

The Blades will be looking to consolidate their fine league position in 2020-21 after taking many by surprise in their top-flight return, but Wilder warned that transfer activity would be limited due to the financial ravages caused by the coronavirus pandemic. 

"It will have to be [free transfers]. The club will be talking about that and budgets and where we are going forward," the manager added.

"As always, I'll try to get the maximum out of what's available, I don't think there will be any head-turning transfers from us this summer, so we will have to work hard to improve the group."

The club are back in action on Sunday, when they host Everton in their penultimate Premier League clash of 2019-20.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted “anything is possible” regarding the prospect of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang moving away from the Emirates, but maintains his captain is “happy” at the club.

Aubameyang’s Arsenal contract expires in June 2021 and he has been linked with the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan.

But Arteta appears not worried about the possibility of his star man being lured away from north London.

“I've always been very positive about it [Aubameyang’s future]. I don't have the key to the future and in football, anything is possible,” Arteta told the Arsenal website.

“But I see his reactions, I see how he is training every day. I know that he's happy. I talk to him a lot and if we are able to do it, I think we can do it and we know how important he is for the team.”

Aubameyang is arguably Arsenal’s most prized player but the Gunners are unlikely to secure a Champions League spot for next season, and the chance of their skipper being snatched away could be increasing.

The Gabon international has struck 23 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions so far this season and has managed two assists.

His importance could further be seen when Arsenal clash with Manchester City in an FA Cup semi-final match at Wembley on Saturday.

Arteta has underlined Aubameyang’s reliability as he leads a Gunners team seeking to further their FA Cup record against the defending champions.

“I think he handles the pressure really well. It is part of his character that he is so relaxed and confident about himself,” Arteta said.

“I think the fact he is able to sustain that level of pressure and still deliver every single year, scoring the amount of goals that he does, tells you everything about how he responds and how he enjoys challenges. I am sure he will be ready on Saturday.”

The Arsenal manager says he is comfortable with fielding his main man either on the left flank or as a centre-forward but "to have a better balance in the team, to have a goal threat" Aubameyang is likely to be on the wing against City.

Saturday’s clash comes just over a month after Arteta was beaten 3-0 by his former boss Pep Guardiola in a Premier League fixture.

Namungo FC played to a 1-1 draw against Tanzania Prisons during a Mainland Premier League tie on Saturday.

Namungo are involved in a second-place finish race against Yanga SC and Azam FC but the latest draw may end up proving costly at the end of the season.

Namungo took the lead in the 43rd minute when Edward Manyana scored the opener after the first 40 minutes failed to yield a goal.

Tanzania Prisons fought hard and were duly rewarded in the 64th minute when Samson Mbangula equalised to ensure the tie ended in a draw.

With three matches remaining, Namungo are third with 64 points behind Yanga who have 67 points and Azam FC who are third with two fewer points than Yanga.

Prisons are 11th with 45 points after 36 matches.

Kinondoni Municipal Council's (KMC FC) resurgence continued after they managed to pick yet another win against Mtibwa Sugar.

Ramadhan Kapera’s 56th-minute goal ensured the Dar es Salaam-based club picked maximum points away from home.

KMC, with 46 points and standing in 10th position, have five more points than their Saturday opponents who have played the same number of matches so far.

KMC started picking wins and rose up the ladder after a poor start into the current season which also saw Ugandan coach Jackson Mayanja sacked.

Mbeya City registered a 1-0 win away from home against Ndanda FC. Samson Mandeleke scored the only goal that separated the two sides four minutes after the start of the second half.

Mbeya City, 12th with 42 points, are fighting hard to rise above the relegation zone and the win means they have recorded four victories in the last six matches.

Singida United, who are facing an imminent drop as they sit at the bottom, fought to register a 2-0 win over Ruvu Shooting.

United have lost the last five matches and the win over Ruvu Shooting who are among the mid-table sides may not count much given they now have 18 points after 35 matches.

Their winning goals were scored by Seiri Arigumaho in the seventh minute and Ramadhan Hashimu in the 60th minute.

Meanwhile, Biashara United and Coastal Union fought to a 1-1- draw. Ramadhan Chombo scored Biashara United’s goal while Ayub Lyanga equalised for the visitors.

Finally, goals from Sixtus Sabilo and Marcel Kaheza handed Polisi Tanzania a 2-1 win over Kagera Sugar.

Sugar’s goal was scored through Iddy Mobby’s own goal in the 18th minute.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continues to “value” Jesse Lingard and claims a player generating transfer talk at Manchester United remains very much “a part of the club”.

A long-serving star at Old Trafford is seeing a move elsewhere mooted ahead of the next window.

That is because he has started to tumble down the pecking order with the Red Devils.

The January arrival of Bruno Fernandes, Paul Pogba's return to fitness and form and the emergence of Mason Greenwood have all worked against Lingard when it comes to seeing regular game time.

He may be a midfielder with 24 England caps to his name, and 205 appearances for United, but questions have been asked of his value on a regular basis down the years.

Lingard has been a divisive figure in the eyes of domestic and international supporters, with criticism seemingly never far away.

Solskjaer insists that he has never had any doubts when it comes to a home-grown talent on his books, with the door still open for minutes to be seen.

The United boss told reporters ahead of a possible outing for Lingard in an FA Cup semi-final clash with Chelsea on Sunday: “Jesse is a part of the club and he's worked really hard.

“He deserves his chance to come back in and we know his qualities. We know that Jesse's got different qualities to other players and he knows that we value him.”

Lingard has switched agents this season, with his decision to start working with Mino Raiola considered to be a nod towards a possible change of scenery.

He remains on United’s books for now, though, and will be in contention when Solskjaer names his side to face Chelsea at Wembley.

Lingard boasts an impressive record at the home of English football and the Red Devils may look to buy into that when taking aim at another piece of major silverware.

Solskjaer added: “This is a great chance to get to the final, we're just one step away, it's at Wembley, so we just focus on the FA Cup.

“And a trophy, of course, that's massive for any player to win and any team to win, so that's our main focus now - to get to the final. Then we will look at West Ham and look at Leicester after that.”

United are putting their Premier League top-four bid to one side for now, but Champions League qualification remains the ultimate goal for Solskjaer’s side – with trophy tilts in the FA Cup and Europa League providing a welcome distraction.

Eberechi Eze found the back of the net for the 13th time this season to help Queens Park Rangers secure a 4-3 victory over Millwall in Saturday’s Championship game.

The 22-year-old was afforded a starting role and formed a three-man strike-force along with another anglo-Nigerian Olamide Shodipo and Ilias Chair.

Eze delivered a fine performance in the encounter to help Mark Warburton’s men bounce back to winning ways after a three-game winless run.

After a number of missed chances from both sides, QPR eventually broke the deadlock with two minutes to half-time through Conor Masterson.

Millwall responded well after the restart with Matt Smith levelling proceedings in the 49th minute after benefitting from Jed Wallace’s assist.

Ryan Manning restored the lead to the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium outfit after he was played through on goal by Dominic Ball.

Moments after the hour mark, Eze then found the back of the net with his second shot in the encounter to give his side a two-goal lead after receiving an assist from Ilias Chair.

In the 67th minute, Shaun Hutchinson reduced the deficit for his side to ignite a possible comeback before Todd Kan, who replaced Shodipo, scored for Rangers with 17 minutes left to play.

Despite a last-gasp effort from Jayson Molumby, Rangers held their nerve to clinch their 16th win of the season on their turf.

Eze, who featured for the duration of the game, made three attempted dribbles and had a 56% successful pass rate in the game while his compatriot Bright Osayi-Samuel was not listed for the game.

The victory ensured QPR’s 14th-spot on the league table with 57 points from 45 games and will hope to finish the 2019-20 campaign with victory over West Bromwich Albion on July 22.

Besides his goals, Eze, who has been linked to a number of Premier League clubs, has now provided eight assists in 46 appearances across all competitions in this campaign.

The versatile player has been a long-time target for Nigeria's national team although he has played for England at youth levels, he is still eligible to feature for the Super Eagles.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder previously stated he has not made up his mind on his international future.

James Rodriguez may be struggling for regular playing time at Real Madrid, as he edges his way towards the exit, but former Blancos striker Ivan Zamorano claims the Colombian is good enough to “play anywhere in the world”.

The 29-year-old playmaker is not expected to be short on offers in the next transfer window.

Players of his pedigree rarely become available on the open market, but there is no role for him at Santiago Bernabeu.

Zinedine Zidane has overlooked James on a regular basis as Real have swept their way to the Liga title.

A permanent parting of ways is now expected to be made with a player who spent two years on loan at Bayern Munich between 2017 and 2019.

Various landing spots have been mooted for South American schemer, from Atletico Madrid to the Premier League, and Zamorano expects a proven performer to rediscover his spark wherever he ends up.

The legendary Chilean frontman told Caracol Radio’s El Alarque of James: "He's very talented, I think he can play anywhere in the world if he wants to.

"He has shown he can be useful in European football, but he hasn't had the chances he needed or wanted this season.

"He has to keep fighting, trying and striving to be the best he can be.

"At some point he'll have the opportunity to demonstrate his ability. If it's not at Real Madrid, it'll be with another team.

"He's a European-level player and I'm sure he'll continue his career there."

James’ stepfather, Juan Carlos Restrepo, has claimed that the Real outcast is ready to start weighing up all of the options available to him.

He has told Super Combo del Deporte en Cali: “I just want to see him happy and playing first-team football on a regular basis.

“There are plenty of top-class clubs interested in his services.

“I'm a big fan of Spanish football and he's been linked with Atletico Madrid, which I would love as they have wonderful fans and an excellent new stadium. 

“We'll have to wait and see what transpires with it being impossible to rule out a move to the Premier League or Serie A too.”

Andre Ayew was ever-present as Swansea City claimed a 1-0 win over Bristol City at the Liberty Stadium in the penultimate round of Championship fixtures on Saturday.

The South Wales club had played out a 2-2 draw with fellow promotion hopefuls Nottingham Forest in midweek, with Ayew scoring from the penalty spot while Nigerian winger Sammy Ameobi netted a brace for the Reds.

Swansea have lost more games at home this season (eight) than they have away from home (four).

Ayew attempted to give Steve Cooper’s side the lead in the 23rd minute, but his shot from six-yards out was saved by Bristol goalkeeper Daniel Bentley.

The Ghana captain had another effort eight minutes to the half-time break but it was kept out. Swansea were however not to be denied in added time with Connor Roberts getting the much-needed goal.

Bristol had the chance to level up from the spot with 21 minutes left on the clock after Senegal striker Famara Diedhiou was fouled by Welsh-Angolan defender Ben Cabango. Diedhiou‘s effort sadly hit the frame of the goalpost.

Ayew had one last say in added time to make it 2-0 for the Swans, but his effort from outside the box failed to go in.

Regardless of the 30-year-old’s failure to find the back of the net, he can still be proud of his performance that produced seven total shots, four of which were on target, 66 touches, 33 accurate passes at 80%, while also winning seven of 10 ground duels and making two tackles and interceptions.

Ayew is Swansea’s top scorer this season with 15 goals and six assists. He has a 100% record from the penalty spot, converted five spot-kicks from five attempts.

Swansea sit in seventh place heading into the final round of fixtures next Wednesday, three points behind fierce Welsh rivals Cardiff City who occupy the final promotion play-off spot after seeing off Middlesbrough 3-1 at the Riverside.

The men in white will need to edge past Reading at the Madejski Stadium, while they hope the Bluebirds - who lead on goal difference by one, falter when they host Hull City.

Rasheedat Ajibade netted the winner for Avaldsnes as they beat Ngozi Ebere's Arna-Bjornar 1-0 in a Norwegian Toppserien encounter on Saturday.

The Nigeria international has settled in well with Thomas Dahle's team, having scored five goals in 22 appearances on her debut season since arriving from Nigerian side Robo Queens in 2018.

The 20-year-old striker made a fine start to the 2020 Toppserien campaign after she netted in her side's 5-2 triumph on July 4.

Following a 2-2 draw at Kolbotn last week, Avaldsnes aimed for a return to winning ways as Ajibade sought to find the net for the second time against Arna after a recent 2-2 preseason draw.

The FC Robo Queens product struck the winner in the 15th minute to inspire Dahle's team to back-to-back home victories this season.

The first half solitary strike from the Nigerian was all the hosts required to condemn Remi Natvik's side to the second defeat of the season. 

Ajibade was in action from the start to finish of the encounter for Avaldsnes, while compatriot Ebere was missing from the tie for Arna.

The win means Lillestrom are second on the log with seventh points from three matches and they will travel to face Ajara Nchout's Valerenga in their next Norwegian league match next Friday.

For Arna, the defeat saw them sit in seventh position of the 10-team standings with three points from three matches and they will welcome Rosenborg in their next league fixture on July 25.

Barcelona need to start planning for the future, says Rivaldo, with the Liga giants urged to bring in long-term successors to Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the earliest opportunity.

The Blaugrana find themselves approaching an important crossroads after being knocked from the loftiest of perches by arch-rivals Real Madrid.

A domestic crown has been surrendered to Clasico foes, with Messi among those to have aired concerns regarding the direction in which Barca are heading.

Rebuilding is required on and off the field, with a talismanic presence at Camp Nou said to have shelved contract talks as he waits on big decisions to be made.

The general consensus is that Messi will stay put and prolong his one-club association with Barca, but there will come a day when he either moves on or hangs up his boots.

The same is true when it comes to prolific frontman Suarez, as well as long-serving figures such as Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique.

Rivaldo believes future planning needs to start now, amid links to the likes of Neymar and Lautaro Martinez, with Barca in serious need of a refresh.

The legendary Brazilian told Betfair of his former club: “Luís Suarez is already 33 years old and his contract expires at the end of next season.

“He still has two or three seasons left playing at the highest level but it's always healthy for the club to think about who will eventually replace him and even sign a new player if possible. The same applies to Messi.

“Squad renewal is part of football and many other great players who played at Barcelona have left at some point - me, Romario, Ronaldinho or [Diego] Maradona are some examples - because one day your age starts sending a message.

“The players come and go and the club stays, so you always must think in new players even if you're satisfied with your current squad. It's normal at any club in the world.”

It appears doubtful that Quique Setien will be given the opportunity to oversee a rebuild at Barca, with Rivaldo among those hoping to see a familiar face drafted into the dugout at Camp Nou.

He added: “Xavi seems to be the right manager to guide Barca through a period of change as he knows the club very well and will be able to work on developing the club's youngsters.

“He had the chance to embrace that task before Barca contacted Setien, but the Spaniard decided he wasn't ready to coach his beloved club. I believe he will change his mind soon and become Barcelona manager.

“I don't know if it's going to happen this summer or not but I believe it's in his own hands to decide it as Barca's board have already showed interest in him.”

Former Uganda international Frank Kyazze has promised to table issues of retired players in parliament.

Kyazze is expected to run for the parliamentary seat of the Makindye Municipality in the general elections of 2021 and has promised to make the issues of the former Cranes’ his priority.

The death of Uganda’s most decorated captain Jimmy Kirunda exposed more reports of the retired players who are struggling in their lives.

Willy Kyambadde, Andrew ‘Fimbo’ Mukasa, and Obadiah Ssemakula have also been reported to be facing a lot of challenges.

“In the 70s and 80s, we normally played for honour, not money as it is now where players get lucrative deals and get paid huge sums of money,” Kyazze told Sports Nation.

“Many players who played during our generation are living a sorry state, but if sportsmen can get a strong voice especially in parliament, something can be done.

“Personally, I am standing for MP Makindye Municipality and I think I can use this platform to bring all sportsmen together and we see how we can lobby support.”

Kyazze, a former KCCA FC and SC Villa star, revealed he has accorded support to a few stars he has traced.

“The president recently put aside funds to pay some sportsmen that have excelled but they [retired players] have not got that money because no one is caring to make a follow-up,” he added.

“I have played football to a greater level, and there is no way I can forget all those people we went through the same struggle.

“At the moment, there are many players that I am looking after, my friend David Lumansi is the one who always gives me updates about the players’ welfare and I support accordingly.”

Kyazze also explained how Ugandan talented stars can bring national development.

“We can market our country through talent promotion and it’s easy to promote, build and develop our nation after reaching a certain level in talent development.”

Kyazze won two Premier League titles with KCCA in 1983 and in 1985 after he had bagged it while at SC Villa in 1982.

He also scooped the league top scorers’ award in 1984 and in 1985. He won two Uganda Cups with KCCA and one with Coffee FC.

Neeskens Kebano scored his first Championship goal of the season and won Fulham a penalty in their 5-3 victory over Moses Odubajo’s Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.

The Democratic of the Congo international was handed his 15th league appearance in this campaign and made the most of the opportunity with his eye-catching display.

The 28-year-old midfielder opened the glut of goals in the 11th minute after receiving an assist from Michael Hector.

Kebano then won the Cottagers a penalty after he was brought down in the box and Aleksandar Mitrovic calmly dispatched his effort from the spot to help his side to a three-goal lead.

The Craven Cottage outfit was reduced to 10 men in the 90th minute after Harrison Reed was given his marching orders but they managed to claim maximum points.

The victory brightened Fulham’s hopes of securing automatic promotion to the Premier League, having closed the gap between them and second-place West Bromwich Albion to two points with only one game to play before the end of the season.

Kebano featured for 79 minutes before making way for Bobby Reid while Anglo-Nigerian Odubajo played for 46 minutes in the encounter.

Elsewhere, Ivory Coast international Yakou Meite bagged his 17th goal of the season as Reading suffered a 4-3 defeat to Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park.

The 24-year-old forward levelled proceedings for his side in the 68th minute after he was set up with a fine assist from Sam Baldock.

The loss is the 19th for the Royals this season which left them in 15th spot on the Championship table with 56 points from 45 games.

Meite has been a key member of Mark Bowen’s team in this campaign, having made 42 appearances across all competitions.

The former Paris Saint-Germain striker will hope to finish the season with yet another goal when Reading take on Andre Ayew’s Swansea City on July 22.

Willian says he would sign a three-year contract extension at Chelsea “tomorrow”, but no such deal has been put to him and he continues to head towards free agency.

The experienced Brazilian forward has agreed to see out the 2019-20 campaign at Stamford Bridge.

He will, however, be able to take on a new challenge from July 26.

That is unless the Blues relax their stance and offer the 31-year-old what he wants.

With there no indication of that happening, interest in Willian’s services continues to build steadily after seven productive years in west London.

“There are rumours about several teams that may be interested,” the talented South American told the De Sola YouTube channel.

“For the time being, I have had no concrete proposal. But rumours always arise.

“I’m waiting. My agent hasn’t given me any news yet. I’m waiting for his call.”

Pressed on whether Chelsea are jealous of the attention he is attracting, Willian added: “No, not for the time being. Chelsea aren’t jealous.

“They didn’t say anything. At least they showed no jealousy. They’re letting go!

“Just kidding. I already had a conversation with the club a few months ago, even before the stop.

“Chelsea only offer me two years and I asked for three. My goal in the next contract is to sign for three years. So I haven’t had a deal with Chelsea yet.

“This is what I asked the club for, three years of contract. If you give me that, I’ll get the pen and sign the contract tomorrow.”

If Willian is to sever ties with Chelsea, then he will walk away with over 330 appearances to his name, 63 goals, two Premier League titles and a Europa League crown.

He claims to have enjoyed his time with the Premier League giants, even a testing spell under the guidance of Antonio Conte in which it appeared as though he may be edged towards the exits.

“Look, with all the managers I had, I learned," said Willian.

“We always learn, regardless of the situation. I already said a few times, I don’t like to keep repeating so as not to create controversy.

“But I was champion with him, I learned some things from him, but I had difficulty with him… it was Antonio Conte. I believe other players too.”

Willian is currently focused on trying to add to his medal collection, with Chelsea preparing to face Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday.

Young Africans (Yanga SC) blew away their chance of cementing second spot in the Mainland Premier League table after they settled to a 1-1 draw against Mwadui FC in a match played at National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday.

The Jangwani Street-based giants entered into the fixture knowing a win will help them move five points clear ahead of third-placed Azam FC, who play against Lipuli FC on Sunday.

With Kenyan keeper Farouk Shikalo twisting and injuring his arm in training, coach Luc Eymael restored keeper Metacha Mnata into the starting XI while strikers David Molinga and Ditram Nchimbi started upfront with Lamine Moro manning the backline alongside Said Juma.

Yanga, who came into the match having beaten relegated side Singida United 3-1, took the lead in 27th minute when Feisal Salum slotted home after a corner-kick taken by Molinga.

However, Mwadui kept pressing for a goal and it was not a surprise when they levelled matters in the 56th minute, Yahya Mbegu’s left-footed effort sneaking past the defenders and beating keeper Mnata to the back of the net.

The draw now means Yanga will remain second on the 20-team table with 68 points but Azam can move above them on goal aggregate if they beat Lipuli on Sunday.

In the early kick-off fixtures, Namungo FC played to a 1-1 draw against Tanzania Prisons.

Namungo are involved in a second-place finish race against Yanga SC and Azam FC but the latest draw may end up proving costly at the end of the season.

They took the lead in the 43rd minute when Edward Manyana scored the opener, after the first 40 minutes failed to yield a goal. Tanzania Prisons fought hard and were duly rewarded in the 64th minute when Samson Mbangula equalised to ensure the tie ended in a draw.

Kinondoni Municipal Council's (KMC FC) resurgence continued after they managed to pick yet another win against Mtibwa Sugar.

Ramadhan Kapera’s 56th-minute goal ensured the Dar es Salaam-based club picked maximum points away from home.

KMC, with 46 points are standing in 10th position, have five more points than their Saturday opponents who have played the same number of matches so far.

KMC started picking wins and rose up the ladder after a poor start into the current season which also saw Ugandan coach Jackson Mayanja sacked.

Mbeya City registered a 1-0 win away from home against Ndanda FC. Samson Mandeleke scored the only goal that separated the two sides four minutes after the start of the second half.

Cape Town City midfielder Ayanda Patosi’s future is yet to be decided as he continues to ply his trade on loan with Iranian side Foolad Khuzestan FC.

According to Cape Town City chairman John Comitis, they have received an offer from Foolad for another loan stint, but the Bafana Bafana international wants an outright deal.

The Khayelitsha-born player was initially loaned out to Esteghlal FC in January last year but was shipped out to FC Baniyas in the United Arab Emirates six months later.

He was also dispatched to the Persian Gulf Pro League in January this year.

"He [Patosi] is there [Iran] now completing the season for two months. Thereafter, we will see what offers he has for a permanent deal,” Comitis told Goal.

“Yes, we have received an offer for a continued loan but Patosi wants an outright deal."

Although media reports suggest that the former Africa Soccer Development (ASD) academy midfielder could stay put, the Citizens owner explained that the 27-year-old’s future will be decided at the end of the current campaign.

For Baniyas in the UAE Arabian Gulf League, ‘Pato’ featured in nine league matches, finding the back of the net once whilst chipping in with a single assist before securing a loan deal to Iran.

Taking a look at his contribution in the Persian Gulf League, the former KSC Lokeren midfielder has played four matches and netted twice in the league so far.

Meanwhile, Patosi recently revealed his ambition to stay put with Foolad where he has been enjoying his football in the Asian country.

As the Persian Gulf Pro League remains suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic, Foolad are placed sixth on the standings and will hope to finish on a high once the season resumes.

Patosi is a two-time Belgian Cup winner, in 2012 and 2014 with Lokeren, while boasting of an MTN8 trophy he lifted with the Mother City outfit under former coach Benni McCarthy in the 2018/19 campaign.

The attacking midfielder has earned 12 international caps for Bafana, scoring three times and will hope to find clarity on his future sooner rather than later.