Mohamed Salah helped maintain Liverpool's perfect record in the Champions League on Tuesday while holders Real Madrid bounced back from their defeat at Anfield to topple in-form Italians Atalanta.&nbsp;

Elsewhere, struggling Paris Saint-Germain gained a vital win at Salzburg, while Bayer Leverkusen edged Inter Milan to move second.

Aston Villa, in their first appearance in the continent's elite club competition for 41 years, maintained their bright progress beating Leipzig 3-2 to sit third.

The first eight teams qualify directly for the last 16 with those placed ninth to 24 entering a play-off round.

In Spain, Salah's 63rd-minute penalty proved decisive against dogged debutants Girona to extend the Premier League leaders' record to six from six in the revamped format of Europe's flagship club competition.

Under new coach Arne Slot Liverpool are virtually assured a place in the last 16.

"If you ask me about all six games, I'm really pleased with all the results... (but) I'm far from pleased about the performance tonight," Slot told reporters in Girona.

"(We had) hardly any control at all over the game, maybe the second half was a bit better but then I'm trying to be positive."

Salah sent Paulo Gazzaniga the wrong way to net his 50th Champions League goal, pulling the Egyptian level with Filippo Inzaghi as the 10th highest goalscorer of all-time in the competition.

The winger is out of contract at the end of the season but his 16 goals across all competitions have been essential in Liverpool's superb first half of the season.

While Liverpool are sitting pretty with two league phase rounds to come early next year, kings of Europe Real Madrid, beaten 2-0 by Liverpool last time out, have work to do to ensure their progress into the knockout phase.

Kylian Mbappe gave Real a 10th minute lead before hobbling off injured in Atalanta, his strike was cancelled out by Charles de Ketelaere's penalty in first-half additional time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-with-series-at-1-1-tickets-for-first-day-of-boxing-dat-test-at-mcg-sold-out-two-weeks-in-advance-783034">BGT 2024-25: With series at 1-1, tickets for first day of Boxing Dat Test at MCG sold out two weeks in advance</a>

<h2>Settle nerves</h2>

Real coach Carlo Ancelotti started Vinicius Junior for the first time since a hamstring problem last month. The Brazilian had Real back on top before the hour, with Jude Bellingham also on the scoresheet for a 3-2 win over the Serie a leaders.

The hard-fought victory moved Real up to 18th on nine points and will have helped to settle any nerves at the 15-time European champions ahead of games against Salzburg and Brest in January.

PSG put the wheels back on their stuttering campaign with a much needed 3-0 defeat on the road at Salzburg.

The French champions went into this encounter in 25th with just four points and three goals scored after five matches.

They approach their last two league outings in provisional 24th - the final berth for the play-offs ahead of Wednesday's games.

Bayern swept aside Ukraine side Shakhtar Donetsk in Gelsenkirchen 5-1. Fellow Bundesliga giants Leverkusen became the first team to score against Inter in this year's competition in a 1-0 win that lifted them five points adrift of Liverpool at the top of the league.

Another noteworthy performance on matchday six came on the Brittany coast where modest French Ligue 1 outfit Brest dished out a 1-0 defeat to former European champions PSV Eindhoven.

It left the Atlantic port city club flying high in fifth in their first ever appearance at European football's high table.

In other games, Celtic and Dinamo Zagreb remained in contention for the knockout round after an uninspiring 0-0 draw and Club Brugge beat Sporting 2-1.

Headline matches on Wednesday include Manchester city at Juventus, and Barcelona at Borussia Dortmund.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mohamed Salah helped maintain Liverpool's perfect record in the Champions League on Tuesday while holders Real Madrid bounced back from their defeat at Anfield to topple in-form Italians Atalanta.

Mohamed Salah helped maintain Liverpool's perfect record in the Champions League on Tuesday while holders Real Madrid bounced back from their defeat at Anfield to topple in-form Italians Atalanta. Elsewhere, struggling Paris Saint-Germain gained a vital win at Salzburg, while Bayer Leverkusen edged Inter Milan to move second. Aston Villa, in their first appearance in the continent's elite club competition for 41 years, maintained their bright progress beating Leipzig 3-2 to sit third. The first eight teams qualify directly for the last 16 with those placed ninth to 24 entering a play-off round. In Spain, Salah's 63rd-minute penalty proved decisive against dogged debutants Girona to extend the Premier League leaders' record to six from six in the revamped format of Europe's flagship club competition. Under new coach Arne Slot Liverpool are virtually assured a place in the last 16. "If you ask me about all six games, I'm really pleased with all the results... (but) I'm far from pleased about the performance tonight," Slot told reporters in Girona. "(We had) hardly any control at all over the game, maybe the second half was a bit better but then I'm trying to be positive." Salah sent Paulo Gazzaniga the wrong way to net his 50th Champions League goal, pulling the Egyptian level with Filippo Inzaghi as the 10th highest goalscorer of all-time in the competition. The winger is out of contract at the end of the season but his 16 goals across all competitions have been essential in Liverpool's superb first half of the season. While Liverpool are sitting pretty with two league phase rounds to come early next year, kings of Europe Real Madrid, beaten 2-0 by Liverpool last time out, have work to do to ensure their progress into the knockout phase. Kylian Mbappe gave Real a 10th minute lead before hobbling off injured in Atalanta, his strike was cancelled out by Charles de Ketelaere's penalty in first-half additional time. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: With series at 1-1, tickets for first day of Boxing Dat Test at MCG sold out two weeks in advance Settle nerves Real coach Carlo Ancelotti started Vinicius Junior for the first time since a hamstring problem last month. The Brazilian had Real back on top before the hour, with Jude Bellingham also on the scoresheet for a 3-2 win over the Serie a leaders. The hard-fought victory moved Real up to 18th on nine points and will have helped to settle any nerves at the 15-time European champions ahead of games against Salzburg and Brest in January. PSG put the wheels back on their stuttering campaign with a much needed 3-0 defeat on the road at Salzburg. The French champions went into this encounter in 25th with just four points and three goals scored after five matches. They approach their last two league outings in provisional 24th - the final berth for the play-offs ahead of Wednesday's games. Bayern swept aside Ukraine side Shakhtar Donetsk in Gelsenkirchen 5-1. Fellow Bundesliga giants Leverkusen became the first team to score against Inter in this year's competition in a 1-0 win that lifted them five points adrift of Liverpool at the top of the league. Another noteworthy performance on matchday six came on the Brittany coast where modest French Ligue 1 outfit Brest dished out a 1-0 defeat to former European champions PSV Eindhoven. It left the Atlantic port city club flying high in fifth in their first ever appearance at European football's high table. In other games, Celtic and Dinamo Zagreb remained in contention for the knockout round after an uninspiring 0-0 draw and Club Brugge beat Sporting 2-1. Headline matches on Wednesday include Manchester city at Juventus, and Barcelona at Borussia Dortmund. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: Real Madrid down Atalanta in key clash, Mohamed Salah keeps Liverpool perfect

Manchester City might be deep in a crisis which is unprecedented under iconic coach Pep Guardiola but on Wednesday the wobbling English champions take on a Juventus team with troubles of their own.

Juventus were booed and whistled by their supporters on Saturday night when they struggled back from two goals down to draw 2-2 at the death with mid-table Bologna.

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Fans, who were expecting a change of tune when coach Thiago Motta left Bologna to replace Massimiliano Allegri in the summer, have been frustrated by a run of four straight draws which have left Juve off the pace at home and in Europe.

Had Juve not been in such uninspiring form Wednesday would have been a perfect opportunity to leapfrog City in the Champions League table, where the Italians sit 19th, behind their Premier League opponents on goal difference.

"I don't think there is a best time to play Manchester City, but we will face the match as we always do, by trying to stop them from playing their football and impose our own play on them," said Motta on Saturday.

Juve have drawn 11 of their 20 matches in all competitions this season and are seven points behind new Serie A leaders Atalanta after 15 matches, not the start that the club were hoping for.

Two wins from nine matches in all competitions, a run which includes a fully deserved home defeat to Stuttgart in October, have set the alarm bells ringing to the point that Agnelli family figurehead John Elkann visited the club's Continassa training ground on Monday.

Elkann is the CEO of Exor, the holding company of the Agnellis who have long controlled Juve and are as close to a royal family as Italy has had since the country became a republic in 1946.

<h2>No excuses</h2>

"We're a young team and we need to improve in all departments, both physically and mentally," Motta told reporters on Tuesday.

"But we have shown more than once that we have a lot of character, we play well as a unit... We have the potential to improve in all areas."

Motta has not been helped by a huge injury crisis which has ravaged his squad in the first half of the campaign and looked on Saturday to have also taken full-back Andrea Cambiaso.

Fortunately for Motta, Cambiaso's ankle knock, which led to him being substituted early against Bologna, is less serious than initially feared and the Italian could be fit for Wednesday, while Douglas Luiz should be back for selection in midfield after two months on the sidelines.

Weston McKennie is also set to return to the Juve squad after missing their last three matches, but Motta is still without at least four players with defenders Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal unavailable until the end of the season.

"I've never used it as an excuse. Every team goes through cycles, the most important thing is facing difficulties head on and that's what we've done," added Motta.

Motta does at least have a recognised centre-forward as Dusan Vlahovic returned to club action against Bologna and provided the pass from which Samuel Mbangula levelled in stoppage time.

Vlahovic's deputy Arkadiusz Milik has been sidelined with an injury to the meniscus in his left knee since June, the Pole undergoing in November a second operation to resolve the problem.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester City might be deep in a crisis which is unprecedented under iconic coach Pep Guardiola but on Wednesday the wobbling English champions take on a Juventus team with troubles of their own.

Manchester City might be deep in a crisis which is unprecedented under iconic coach Pep Guardiola but on Wednesday the wobbling English champions take on a Juventus team with troubles of their own. Juventus were booed and whistled by their supporters on Saturday night when they struggled back from two goals down to draw 2-2 at the death with mid-table Bologna. Also Read: Australian champion cyclist Rohan Dennis admits lesser charge after wife's death: Report Fans, who were expecting a change of tune when coach Thiago Motta left Bologna to replace Massimiliano Allegri in the summer, have been frustrated by a run of four straight draws which have left Juve off the pace at home and in Europe. Had Juve not been in such uninspiring form Wednesday would have been a perfect opportunity to leapfrog City in the Champions League table, where the Italians sit 19th, behind their Premier League opponents on goal difference. "I don't think there is a best time to play Manchester City, but we will face the match as we always do, by trying to stop them from playing their football and impose our own play on them," said Motta on Saturday. Juve have drawn 11 of their 20 matches in all competitions this season and are seven points behind new Serie A leaders Atalanta after 15 matches, not the start that the club were hoping for. Two wins from nine matches in all competitions, a run which includes a fully deserved home defeat to Stuttgart in October, have set the alarm bells ringing to the point that Agnelli family figurehead John Elkann visited the club's Continassa training ground on Monday. Elkann is the CEO of Exor, the holding company of the Agnellis who have long controlled Juve and are as close to a royal family as Italy has had since the country became a republic in 1946. No excuses "We're a young team and we need to improve in all departments, both physically and mentally," Motta told reporters on Tuesday. "But we have shown more than once that we have a lot of character, we play well as a unit... We have the potential to improve in all areas." Motta has not been helped by a huge injury crisis which has ravaged his squad in the first half of the campaign and looked on Saturday to have also taken full-back Andrea Cambiaso. Fortunately for Motta, Cambiaso's ankle knock, which led to him being substituted early against Bologna, is less serious than initially feared and the Italian could be fit for Wednesday, while Douglas Luiz should be back for selection in midfield after two months on the sidelines. Weston McKennie is also set to return to the Juve squad after missing their last three matches, but Motta is still without at least four players with defenders Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal unavailable until the end of the season. "I've never used it as an excuse. Every team goes through cycles, the most important thing is facing difficulties head on and that's what we've done," added Motta. Motta does at least have a recognised centre-forward as Dusan Vlahovic returned to club action against Bologna and provided the pass from which Samuel Mbangula levelled in stoppage time. Vlahovic's deputy Arkadiusz Milik has been sidelined with an injury to the meniscus in his left knee since June, the Pole undergoing in November a second operation to resolve the problem. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: Juventus under pressure against struggling Manchester City

Manchester United suffered a £14 million ($17.6 million) drop in total revenue to £143.1 million, taking a hit from their absence from the lucrative Champions League, first-quarter results showed Tuesday.

But the club announced a net profit of £1.4 million in the period from July to September, compared with a £25.8 million loss during the same period last year, which they attributed to favourable foreign exchange rates.

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The Red Devils finished eighth in the Premier League under former manager Erik ten Hag last season -- their lowest-ever placing -- to miss out on Europe's top club competition.

That resulted in a 20.4 per cent drop in broadcasting revenue in the quarter ending September 30 to £31.3 million.

United's FA Cup win last season means they are competing in this season's Europa League instead.

Commercial revenue fell 5.6 per cent to £85.3 million, with matchday revenue decreasing by 3.3 per cent to £26.5 million.

The club recorded "exceptional" costs of £8.6 million. They said the figure "comprises costs incurred in relation to the restructuring of the group's operations, including the redundancy scheme implemented in the first quarter of financial year 2025".

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS group took over football operations earlier this year after purchasing a minority stake.

They instigated a number of cost-saving measures, including plans to cut about 250 jobs.

United chief executive Omar Berrada said cost and headcount reductions remained "on track", as did work to renovate the club's Carrington training ground.

He confirmed a taskforce weighing up the benefits of redeveloping Old Trafford or building a new stadium on adjacent land was continuing its work.

United ended their financial year in June with net losses of £113.2 million despite earning record revenues -- their fifth straight year of losses.

They are predicting total revenue for 2025 of between £650 million and £670 million.

Ruben Amorim, who replaced the sacked Ten Hag earlier this month, took charge of his first game at Ipswich on Sunday, which ended 1-1.

United are 12th in the Premier League table after a poor start to the season, six points off the top four teams, who qualify for the Champions League.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester United suffered a £14 million ($17.6 million) drop in total revenue to £143.1 million, taking a hit from their absence from the lucrative Champions League, first-quarter results showed Tuesday.

Manchester United suffered a £14 million ($17.6 million) drop in total revenue to £143.1 million, taking a hit from their absence from the lucrative Champions League, first-quarter results showed Tuesday. But the club announced a net profit of £1.4 million in the period from July to September, compared with a £25.8 million loss during the same period last year, which they attributed to favourable foreign exchange rates. Also Read: Sri Lanka A side abandons Pakistan tour mid-way due to violent protests in Islamabad The Red Devils finished eighth in the Premier League under former manager Erik ten Hag last season -- their lowest-ever placing -- to miss out on Europe's top club competition. That resulted in a 20.4 per cent drop in broadcasting revenue in the quarter ending September 30 to £31.3 million. United's FA Cup win last season means they are competing in this season's Europa League instead. Commercial revenue fell 5.6 per cent to £85.3 million, with matchday revenue decreasing by 3.3 per cent to £26.5 million. The club recorded "exceptional" costs of £8.6 million. They said the figure "comprises costs incurred in relation to the restructuring of the group's operations, including the redundancy scheme implemented in the first quarter of financial year 2025". British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS group took over football operations earlier this year after purchasing a minority stake. They instigated a number of cost-saving measures, including plans to cut about 250 jobs. United chief executive Omar Berrada said cost and headcount reductions remained "on track", as did work to renovate the club's Carrington training ground. He confirmed a taskforce weighing up the benefits of redeveloping Old Trafford or building a new stadium on adjacent land was continuing its work. United ended their financial year in June with net losses of £113.2 million despite earning record revenues -- their fifth straight year of losses. They are predicting total revenue for 2025 of between £650 million and £670 million. Ruben Amorim, who replaced the sacked Ten Hag earlier this month, took charge of his first game at Ipswich on Sunday, which ended 1-1. United are 12th in the Premier League table after a poor start to the season, six points off the top four teams, who qualify for the Champions League. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester United revenue takes a dip amid Champions League absence

Manchester City's struggles continued as Pep Guardiola's side remarkably blew a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday, while Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain to leave the French club in danger of elimination.

There were also big wins for Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen, while Inter Milan went top of the standings after five games and Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski reached a century of Champions League goals.

However, the biggest drama came at the Etihad Stadium, where City were cruising early in the second half with a three-goal advantage as they sought to end a run of five successive defeats in all competitions.

Erling Haaland opened the scoring from a penalty just before half-time, and Ilkay Gundogan's deflected shot made it 2-0 in the 50th minute.

Haaland struck again to make it 3-0, but Feyenoord's comeback began on 75 minutes when Anis Hadj Moussa took advantage of hapless defending to round goalkeeper Ederson and pull one back.

Substitute Santiago Gimenez bundled in to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes and the equaliser arrived a minute from the end.

Ederson was again caught out with Igor Paixao going around the goalkeeper and crossing for Slovak international David Hancko to head in.

"We concede a lot of goals because we are not stable," complained Guardiola.

"We lost a lot of games lately. We are fragile and of course we need a victory."

It is the first time that a team has gone into the last 20 minutes of a Champions League game trailing by three goals and still avoided defeat, as the point boosts the Dutch side's hopes of progressing.

City are two points outside the top eight places which offer direct qualification for the last 16, while Bayern moved above them by beating PSG 1-0 in Munich.

South Korean defender Kim Min-jae scored the only goal seven minutes before half-time, heading in after goalkeeper Matvei Safonov failed to clear a corner.

PSG had Ousmane Dembele sent off in the second half and the French champions have just four points, and three goals, from five games.

They are a lowly 26th in the 36-team league, a point adrift of the positions which offer a place in the play-off round in February.

"We need to win our last three matches, otherwise we risk being eliminated," admitted PSG coach Luis Enrique.

<h2>Lewandowski century</h2>

Lewandowski notched his 100th goal in the competition with an early penalty in Barcelona's 3-0 home win over French side Brest.

Dani Olmo netted midway through the second half before Lewandowski sealed Barca's win at the death, his 101st goal in the Champions League -- only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have scored more.

Inter lead the standings with 13 points, a point ahead of Barcelona and Liverpool, after a 1-0 win at home to RB Leipzig which means they are also still yet to concede a goal.

Castello Lukeba's own goal made the difference at San Siro, and Leipzig are one of only three teams to have lost five games out of five.

Arsenal romped to a 5-1 victory away to Sporting in Lisbon, as the Portuguese side adapt to life without coach Ruben Amorim, who has departed for Manchester United.

Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhaes all scored in the first half for Arsenal, before Goncalo Inacio pulled one back shortly after the restart.

Bukayo Saka converted a penalty on 65 minutes after Martin Odegaard had been brought down, and Leandro Trossard headed in to seal Arsenal's win late on.

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<h2>Atalanta, Atletico hit six</h2>

Atalanta romped to a 6-1 win over rock-bottom Young Boys in Switzerland, with Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere both scoring braces.

Sead Kolasinac and Lazar Samardzic also netted for the Italians, with Silvere Ganvoula getting the hosts' reply.

Florian Wirtz struck twice, including a penalty, as Leverkusen crushed Red Bull Salzburg 5-0, with Alejandro Grimaldo scoring a superb free-kick and Patrik Schick and Aleix Garcia also netting.

Julian Alvarez and substitute Angel Correa each scored twice and Marcos Llorente and Antoine Griezmann once as Atletico romped to a 6-0 win away to Sparta Prague.

Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham were the scorers in AC Milan's 3-2 win at Slovan Bratislava, whose goals came from Tigran Barseghyan and Nino Marcelli.

Marko Tolic saw red at the end for Slovan, who are without a point.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester City's struggles continued as Pep Guardiola's side remarkably blew a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday, while Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain to leave the French club in danger of elimination.

Manchester City's struggles continued as Pep Guardiola's side remarkably blew a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday, while Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain to leave the French club in danger of elimination. There were also big wins for Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen, while Inter Milan went top of the standings after five games and Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski reached a century of Champions League goals. However, the biggest drama came at the Etihad Stadium, where City were cruising early in the second half with a three-goal advantage as they sought to end a run of five successive defeats in all competitions. Erling Haaland opened the scoring from a penalty just before half-time, and Ilkay Gundogan's deflected shot made it 2-0 in the 50th minute. Haaland struck again to make it 3-0, but Feyenoord's comeback began on 75 minutes when Anis Hadj Moussa took advantage of hapless defending to round goalkeeper Ederson and pull one back. Substitute Santiago Gimenez bundled in to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes and the equaliser arrived a minute from the end. Ederson was again caught out with Igor Paixao going around the goalkeeper and crossing for Slovak international David Hancko to head in. "We concede a lot of goals because we are not stable," complained Guardiola. "We lost a lot of games lately. We are fragile and of course we need a victory." It is the first time that a team has gone into the last 20 minutes of a Champions League game trailing by three goals and still avoided defeat, as the point boosts the Dutch side's hopes of progressing. City are two points outside the top eight places which offer direct qualification for the last 16, while Bayern moved above them by beating PSG 1-0 in Munich. South Korean defender Kim Min-jae scored the only goal seven minutes before half-time, heading in after goalkeeper Matvei Safonov failed to clear a corner. PSG had Ousmane Dembele sent off in the second half and the French champions have just four points, and three goals, from five games. They are a lowly 26th in the 36-team league, a point adrift of the positions which offer a place in the play-off round in February. "We need to win our last three matches, otherwise we risk being eliminated," admitted PSG coach Luis Enrique. Lewandowski century Lewandowski notched his 100th goal in the competition with an early penalty in Barcelona's 3-0 home win over French side Brest. Dani Olmo netted midway through the second half before Lewandowski sealed Barca's win at the death, his 101st goal in the Champions League -- only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have scored more. Inter lead the standings with 13 points, a point ahead of Barcelona and Liverpool, after a 1-0 win at home to RB Leipzig which means they are also still yet to concede a goal. Castello Lukeba's own goal made the difference at San Siro, and Leipzig are one of only three teams to have lost five games out of five. Arsenal romped to a 5-1 victory away to Sporting in Lisbon, as the Portuguese side adapt to life without coach Ruben Amorim, who has departed for Manchester United. Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhaes all scored in the first half for Arsenal, before Goncalo Inacio pulled one back shortly after the restart. Bukayo Saka converted a penalty on 65 minutes after Martin Odegaard had been brought down, and Leandro Trossard headed in to seal Arsenal's win late on. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka A side abandons Pakistan tour mid-way due to violent protests in Islamabad Atalanta, Atletico hit six Atalanta romped to a 6-1 win over rock-bottom Young Boys in Switzerland, with Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere both scoring braces. Sead Kolasinac and Lazar Samardzic also netted for the Italians, with Silvere Ganvoula getting the hosts' reply. Florian Wirtz struck twice, including a penalty, as Leverkusen crushed Red Bull Salzburg 5-0, with Alejandro Grimaldo scoring a superb free-kick and Patrik Schick and Aleix Garcia also netting. Julian Alvarez and substitute Angel Correa each scored twice and Marcos Llorente and Antoine Griezmann once as Atletico romped to a 6-0 win away to Sparta Prague. Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham were the scorers in AC Milan's 3-2 win at Slovan Bratislava, whose goals came from Tigran Barseghyan and Nino Marcelli. Marko Tolic saw red at the end for Slovan, who are without a point. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: Man City blow three-goal lead at home, Bayern beat PSG

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane believes his team needs to win all four of the&nbsp;remaining Champions League games to go through, starting with Paris Saint-Germain at home on Tuesday.

Bayern have lost two of their four matches so far in the new league phase and sit 17th in the standings, with only the top eight qualifying automatically for the last 16.

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PSG are languishing outside even the top 24, which secures a place in the play-off round, ahead of the meeting at the Allianz Arena.

"(Bayern) have to win pretty much all our games -- and that's also the case for PSG," Kane told reporters on Monday.

"We're not used to being that far down in the table... With the new format, no one really knows what to expect.

"Tomorrow's a big night."

Kane on Friday scored his seventh hat-trick since arriving at Bayern ahead of last season in a win over Augsburg.

He netted his 50th Bundesliga goal in 43 matches, becoming the fastest to reach a half-century in the division's history, beating Erling Haaland's record by six games.

Bayern coach Vincent Kompany said it was too early to determine his side's chances in the competition.

"With three wins you qualify and with six wins you're in the top eight," Kompany said, admitting it was "difficult" to look at the table.

"Some teams have had four difficult games and some have had easier ones. Our goal is not the top eight but to be number one."

Kompany said Bayern were wary of their opponents, who they defeated in the 2020 Champions League final, and said PSG were dangerous even without the big names of years past.

"It's a squad with incredible talent. Some of their players will reach the level of those who previously played for PSG.

"We are playing against one of the best teams in Europe. They have a great coach with a lot of speed.&nbsp;

"I don't expect a boring match... Something's got to give."

PSG midfielder Vitinha said his side "couldn't be more motivated" to take on Bayern.&nbsp;

"We know we have to win. It's not decisive because we aren't eliminated if we lose, but at PSG we want to win every game.

"Tomorrow is no different. We're here to win."

Visiting coach Luis Enrique said his side would not adjust their approach despite Bayern's firepower.

"Tomorrow we'll be brave, attack and take risks in defense, as we always do. This is the way.

"I don't know any other way and I'm not interested in any other way. If our opponents are better, we'll applaud them and work to get better."

Like Bayern, Ligue 1 leaders PSG are six points clear and unbeaten in their domestic league.

This season's Champions League final will be played in Munich.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane believes his team needs to win all four of the remaining Champions League games to go through, starting with Paris Saint-Germain at home on Tuesday.

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane believes his team needs to win all four of the remaining Champions League games to go through, starting with Paris Saint-Germain at home on Tuesday. Bayern have lost two of their four matches so far in the new league phase and sit 17th in the standings, with only the top eight qualifying automatically for the last 16. Also Read: Mohamed Salah disappointed with no new Liverpool deal on table PSG are languishing outside even the top 24, which secures a place in the play-off round, ahead of the meeting at the Allianz Arena. "(Bayern) have to win pretty much all our games -- and that's also the case for PSG," Kane told reporters on Monday. "We're not used to being that far down in the table... With the new format, no one really knows what to expect. "Tomorrow's a big night." Kane on Friday scored his seventh hat-trick since arriving at Bayern ahead of last season in a win over Augsburg. He netted his 50th Bundesliga goal in 43 matches, becoming the fastest to reach a half-century in the division's history, beating Erling Haaland's record by six games. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany said it was too early to determine his side's chances in the competition. "With three wins you qualify and with six wins you're in the top eight," Kompany said, admitting it was "difficult" to look at the table. "Some teams have had four difficult games and some have had easier ones. Our goal is not the top eight but to be number one." Kompany said Bayern were wary of their opponents, who they defeated in the 2020 Champions League final, and said PSG were dangerous even without the big names of years past. "It's a squad with incredible talent. Some of their players will reach the level of those who previously played for PSG. "We are playing against one of the best teams in Europe. They have a great coach with a lot of speed. "I don't expect a boring match... Something's got to give." PSG midfielder Vitinha said his side "couldn't be more motivated" to take on Bayern. "We know we have to win. It's not decisive because we aren't eliminated if we lose, but at PSG we want to win every game. "Tomorrow is no different. We're here to win." Visiting coach Luis Enrique said his side would not adjust their approach despite Bayern's firepower. "Tomorrow we'll be brave, attack and take risks in defense, as we always do. This is the way. "I don't know any other way and I'm not interested in any other way. If our opponents are better, we'll applaud them and work to get better." Like Bayern, Ligue 1 leaders PSG are six points clear and unbeaten in their domestic league. This season's Champions League final will be played in Munich. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: Bayern Munich need 'to win pretty much all our games,' says Harry Kane

Before the UEFA Nations League match in Paris, pro-Palestine protests took place outside the stadium, with demonstrators voicing their opposition to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The protests highlighted the political tensions surrounding the event, as activists called for greater attention to the humanitarian crisis. Despite the demonstration, the match went ahead as scheduled, with heightened security measures in place to ensure public safety.

UEFA National League: Pro-Palestine Protests Took Place Before The Match In Paris

Liverpool boss Arne Slot is not surprised by his team's fine start to the season, saying he was well aware of the strength of the side he was inheriting when he arrived at Anfield as Juergen Klopp's successor.

Slot's team, who have won 14 of 16 games across all competitions since he took charge, look to remain top of the Premier League table when they host Aston Villa on Saturday. Liverpool have a two-point lead over holders Manchester City.

They also top the Champions League table as the only team with four wins in four games.

"I don't think surprise is the right word to use because I knew the quality of our team," Slot told reporters on Friday. "But quality is one thing and consistency is another. I am not surprised because I saw the energy my players put in on a daily basis.

"Sometimes a bit of luck comes with that as well. Most of our results were deserved but some have been a close call," he added. "(Also) when I started working with them I saw how much effort they put in to get these results."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/israeli-fans-allegedly-attacked-by-pro-palestinian-supporters-ahead-of-europa-league-match-774506">Amsterdam riots: Netanyahu orders rescue aircraft for Maccabi Tel Aviv fans after alleged attack</a>

Slot does not expect forward Diogo Jota, who has not played since Liverpool's 2-1 win over Chelsea on Oct. 20 due to injury, to return until after the international break, but would not divulge any details about his injury, saying: "There is privacy about this.

"He will be back one or two games after the international break."

Curtis Jones, who was named in interim England manager Lee Carsley's squad for the upcoming international break, has shone for Liverpool in recent weeks, playing a sumptuous through ball for Luis Diaz to score in Tuesday's 4-0 Champions League rout of Bayer Leverkusen.

Slot said Jones has taken his game to another level since the birth of his daughter Giselle on October&nbsp;13.

"Since the moment he became a father, he started putting great performances in," Slot said. "He has a lot of qualities on the ball, when he has it he's never afraid to do something special," the Dutchman added. "Sometimes he is a bit too over-confident but confidence is important. He also has an incredibly high work-rate and we can trust him defensively."

Carsley included Jones in his previous two England squads but he has yet to make a senior appearance for his country. That could change when they travel to Athens to take on Greece on Thursday. England host Ireland three days later at Wembley.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot is not surprised by his team's fine start to the season, saying he was well aware of the strength of the side he was inheriting when he arrived at Anfield as Juergen Klopp's successor.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot is not surprised by his team's fine start to the season, saying he was well aware of the strength of the side he was inheriting when he arrived at Anfield as Juergen Klopp's successor. Slot's team, who have won 14 of 16 games across all competitions since he took charge, look to remain top of the Premier League table when they host Aston Villa on Saturday. Liverpool have a two-point lead over holders Manchester City. They also top the Champions League table as the only team with four wins in four games. "I don't think surprise is the right word to use because I knew the quality of our team," Slot told reporters on Friday. "But quality is one thing and consistency is another. I am not surprised because I saw the energy my players put in on a daily basis. "Sometimes a bit of luck comes with that as well. Most of our results were deserved but some have been a close call," he added. "(Also) when I started working with them I saw how much effort they put in to get these results." ALSO READ: Amsterdam riots: Netanyahu orders rescue aircraft for Maccabi Tel Aviv fans after alleged attack Slot does not expect forward Diogo Jota, who has not played since Liverpool's 2-1 win over Chelsea on Oct. 20 due to injury, to return until after the international break, but would not divulge any details about his injury, saying: "There is privacy about this. "He will be back one or two games after the international break." Curtis Jones, who was named in interim England manager Lee Carsley's squad for the upcoming international break, has shone for Liverpool in recent weeks, playing a sumptuous through ball for Luis Diaz to score in Tuesday's 4-0 Champions League rout of Bayer Leverkusen. Slot said Jones has taken his game to another level since the birth of his daughter Giselle on October 13. "Since the moment he became a father, he started putting great performances in," Slot said. "He has a lot of qualities on the ball, when he has it he's never afraid to do something special," the Dutchman added. "Sometimes he is a bit too over-confident but confidence is important. He also has an incredibly high work-rate and we can trust him defensively." Carsley included Jones in his previous two England squads but he has yet to make a senior appearance for his country. That could change when they travel to Athens to take on Greece on Thursday. England host Ireland three days later at Wembley. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘I knew the quality of our team’ – Arne Slot unsurprised by Liverpool’s superb start to season

Real Madrid came from behind to beat Borussia Dortmund 5-2 in the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League on Tuesday with Vinicius Junior scoring a hat-trick, as Aston Villa maintained their 100 percent record to go top of the table. Vinicius struck three times in the second half as Madrid bounced back from two goals down to inflict further anguish on Dortmund -- in the repeat of last season's final which Real won 2-0.

First-half goals in quick succession by Donyell Malen and Jamie Gittens had given Dortmund a two-goal lead at half-time.

"Things were very quiet when we got to the dressing room 2-0 down at half-time," Vinicius, 24, told Movistar. "But we listened to the boss (coach Carlo Ancelotti) and agreed one simple thing: if we can score first then we'll fight back and win once again."

The 15-times&nbsp;champions&nbsp;duly struck back early in the second period via Antonio Rudiger and Vinicius, before Lucas Vazquez sent Real ahead and the Brazilian netted two more inside the final 10 minutes.&nbsp;

After the surprise defeat at Lille last time out, Madrid's hunt for a record-extending 16th&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League crown is back on track as they move to ninth in the standings, on six points. Malen swept the Germans into the lead on the half-hour following a deft pass from Serhou Guirassy that split open the defence.

Madrid defender Eder Militao was then left beating the turf in frustration four minutes later when Gittens flew in at the back post to double Dortmund's lead.

Rudiger halved the deficit with a powerful header from a Kylian Mbappe cross on 60 minutes. Vinicius equalised two minutes later by tucking away a stray ball, the goal being awarded by VAR after Mbappe was shown to have been onside in the build-up.

A rare Dortmund foray forward resulted in a fine Thibaut Courtois save, with the holders then racing straight down the other end and Vazquez lashing home on 83 minutes.

Vinicius then completed his hat-trick in the 86th and 93rd minutes, his second coming after a lung-busting sprint down the line from inside his own half. Arsenal emerged 1-0 winners at home to Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk thanks to an own-goal from the visitors' goalkeeper.

Dmytro Riznyk could only grasp at thin air after Gabriel Martinelli had cut in from the left and smacked the ball against the near post before it rebounded back off the goalie and over the line.&nbsp;

Leandro Trossard missed a penalty near the end, but Arsenal had already done enough to secure their second win of the tournament.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-chris-wood-winner-for-nottingham-forest-adds-more-misery-on-poor-crystal-palace-769627">Premier League: Chris Wood winner for Nottingham Forest adds more misery on poor Crystal Palace</a>

<h2>- Table-topping Villa -</h2>

Fellow Premier League side Aston Villa are enjoying an excellent return to European football's top table after 41 years as they won their third match in three&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League outings this term with a 2-0 victory against Bologna. "We are playing seriously, we are playing focussed, responsible and the team is progressing and mature in everything," manager Unai Emery told TNT Sports.

John McGinn opened the scoring at Villa Park 10 minutes after the interval and Jhon Duran wrapped up the points in the 64th minute, sending Emery's side to the top of the league phase table on nine points with zero goals conceded.

Stuttgart sank Juventus 1-0 in Turin, thanks to a stoppage-time winner by El Bilal Toure.

The Italians were reduced to 10 men when Danilo picked up a second yellow while conceding a penalty in the 84th minute.

Mattia Perin looked to have saved his side when he stopped the resulting spot-kick from Enzo Millot, but Toure slammed home in the 92nd minute for Stuttgart.

PSV Eindhoven surprised Paris Saint-Germain with a Noa Lang goal against the run of play in the first period, before Achraf Hakimi hit back on 55 minutes to ensure the points were shared.

AC Milan beat 10-men Club Brugge at the San Siro with Christian Pulisic and a Tijjani Reijnders brace giving the Italians a 3-1 victory.

Monaco won 5-1 at home to Red Star Belgrade, while Sporting Lisbon beat Sturm Graz 2-0 in Austria. Last season's Spanish league surprise-packages Girona picked up their first points in the competition with a 2-0 win at home to Slovan Bratislava.

On Wednesday, five-time winners Barcelona host six-time&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Bayern Munich and Liverpool visit RB Leipzig.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid came from behind to beat Borussia Dortmund 5-2 in the Champions League on Tuesday with Vinicius Junior scoring a hat-trick, as Aston Villa maintained their 100 percent record to go top of the table.

Real Madrid came from behind to beat Borussia Dortmund 5-2 in the Champions League on Tuesday with Vinicius Junior scoring a hat-trick, as Aston Villa maintained their 100 percent record to go top of the table. Vinicius struck three times in the second half as Madrid bounced back from two goals down to inflict further anguish on Dortmund -- in the repeat of last season's final which Real won 2-0. First-half goals in quick succession by Donyell Malen and Jamie Gittens had given Dortmund a two-goal lead at half-time. "Things were very quiet when we got to the dressing room 2-0 down at half-time," Vinicius, 24, told Movistar. "But we listened to the boss (coach Carlo Ancelotti) and agreed one simple thing: if we can score first then we'll fight back and win once again." The 15-times champions duly struck back early in the second period via Antonio Rudiger and Vinicius, before Lucas Vazquez sent Real ahead and the Brazilian netted two more inside the final 10 minutes. After the surprise defeat at Lille last time out, Madrid's hunt for a record-extending 16th Champions League crown is back on track as they move to ninth in the standings, on six points. Malen swept the Germans into the lead on the half-hour following a deft pass from Serhou Guirassy that split open the defence. Madrid defender Eder Militao was then left beating the turf in frustration four minutes later when Gittens flew in at the back post to double Dortmund's lead. Rudiger halved the deficit with a powerful header from a Kylian Mbappe cross on 60 minutes. Vinicius equalised two minutes later by tucking away a stray ball, the goal being awarded by VAR after Mbappe was shown to have been onside in the build-up. A rare Dortmund foray forward resulted in a fine Thibaut Courtois save, with the holders then racing straight down the other end and Vazquez lashing home on 83 minutes. Vinicius then completed his hat-trick in the 86th and 93rd minutes, his second coming after a lung-busting sprint down the line from inside his own half. Arsenal emerged 1-0 winners at home to Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk thanks to an own-goal from the visitors' goalkeeper. Dmytro Riznyk could only grasp at thin air after Gabriel Martinelli had cut in from the left and smacked the ball against the near post before it rebounded back off the goalie and over the line. Leandro Trossard missed a penalty near the end, but Arsenal had already done enough to secure their second win of the tournament. Also read: Premier League: Chris Wood winner for Nottingham Forest adds more misery on poor Crystal Palace - Table-topping Villa - Fellow Premier League side Aston Villa are enjoying an excellent return to European football's top table after 41 years as they won their third match in three Champions League outings this term with a 2-0 victory against Bologna. "We are playing seriously, we are playing focussed, responsible and the team is progressing and mature in everything," manager Unai Emery told TNT Sports. John McGinn opened the scoring at Villa Park 10 minutes after the interval and Jhon Duran wrapped up the points in the 64th minute, sending Emery's side to the top of the league phase table on nine points with zero goals conceded. Stuttgart sank Juventus 1-0 in Turin, thanks to a stoppage-time winner by El Bilal Toure. The Italians were reduced to 10 men when Danilo picked up a second yellow while conceding a penalty in the 84th minute. Mattia Perin looked to have saved his side when he stopped the resulting spot-kick from Enzo Millot, but Toure slammed home in the 92nd minute for Stuttgart. PSV Eindhoven surprised Paris Saint-Germain with a Noa Lang goal against the run of play in the first period, before Achraf Hakimi hit back on 55 minutes to ensure the points were shared. AC Milan beat 10-men Club Brugge at the San Siro with Christian Pulisic and a Tijjani Reijnders brace giving the Italians a 3-1 victory. Monaco won 5-1 at home to Red Star Belgrade, while Sporting Lisbon beat Sturm Graz 2-0 in Austria. Last season's Spanish league surprise-packages Girona picked up their first points in the competition with a 2-0 win at home to Slovan Bratislava. On Wednesday, five-time winners Barcelona host six-time champions Bayern Munich and Liverpool visit RB Leipzig. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UCL: Vinicius Junior hat-trick saves Real Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund, Aston Villa go top

Inter Milan won their first match of this season's revamped Champions League on Tuesday by sweeping aside Red Star Belgrade 4-0 at the San Siro. A stunning free-kick from Hakan Calhanoglu opened the scoring in the 11th minute under a downpour in northern Italy, before Marko Arnautovic rolled in his first goal of the campaign on the hour.&nbsp;

Captain Lautaro Martinez added a third in the 71st minute and shortly afterwards won the penalty from which Iran forward Mehdi Taremi completed a comfortable home success. Martinez, who was in line to take the spot-kick with Calhanoglu already substituted, handed Taremi the chance to score his first Inter goal past Israel international goalkeeper Omri Glazer.

"I'm glad to score tonight, to play good. Thanks to my teammates. It was great," Taremi said to Sky before suggesting he expected a deep run from his new team. "Our goal as a big club is to reach the final, as Inter must try to win every game. We'll take it step by step."

Tuesday's win moved the Italian champions up to four points and into the top eight positions of the new league phase of the elite club competition, from which teams qualify directly for the last 16, ahead of Wednesday's matches.

It's too early to say whether Inter will avoid the play-offs come next year but Simone Inzaghi's side were too good for Red Star even with seven changes from the team which beat Udinese at the weekend.

And Inter have already shown that they can tangle with the best in their goalless draw at Manchester City a fortnight ago. "It's a win that we needed after playing well in Manchester, but we need to keep moving in this direction," said Inzaghi.

Red Star are in 32nd place after losing their first two matches and coach Vladan Milojevic lamented an error strewn performance. "We gave away four goals, I said after the Benfica game (lost 2-1) that we can't concede those sorts of goals... when you make these kinds of errors you can't do much else," he told reporters.

- Ultras arrests -

The match was played against the backdrop of mass arrests of leading figures within both Inter and AC Milan's hardcore ultras fan groups for a variety of crimes relating to illegal profits made around matches. Police arrested 19 people, almost all ultras, on Monday for "criminal conspiracy aggravated by mafia methods, extortion, assault and other serious crimes".

The alleged crimes involve activities around the San Siro stadium on matchdays, ranging from ticket touting to control of parking, sales from concession stands and taking payment from people without tickets and letting them into the stadium.

Monday's arrests came after a long investigation into both clubs' ultras and the shocking killing last month of Antonio Bellocco, the scion of a powerful 'Ndrangheta clan who was stabbed to death by fellow Inter ultra Andrea Beretta.

Investigators from the finance police and anti-mafia authorities said on Monday that Inter and Milan were not being probed and that the pair had been "damaged" by the affair.

Those arrests and the soaking wet weather in Milan didn't dampen the atmosphere in the Curva Nord section of the San Siro, where Inter's loudest fans stood and roared their team from the first minute.

The whole stadium was on its feet and bouncing after Calhanoglu whipped in his beautiful free-kick to put the hosts ahead as Inter dominated proceedings.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-arsenal-beat-psg-in-champions-league-duel-dortmund-thrash-celtic-763755">Arsenal beat PSG in Champions League duel, Dortmund thrash Celtic</a>

Arnautovic and Denzel Dumfries were both flagged offside as they netted while Henrikh Mkhitaryan wasted two great chances to add to Inter's deserved lead.

Mkhitaryan just failed to get a proper foot on Piotr Zielinski's brilliant cross in the 58th minute, but moments later Arnautovic rolled in Inter's second after Taremi robbed the ball from former AC Milan midfielder Rade Krunic.

Red Star crumbled and Martinez scored his third goal of the season after another fine assist from Taremi, who was given a gift from his Argentine strike partner as thanks for his sterling work up front which helped Inter secure a fine win.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Inter Milan won their first match of this season's revamped Champions League on Tuesday by sweeping aside Red Star Belgrade 4-0 at the San Siro. A stunning free-kick from Hakan Calhanoglu opened the scoring in the 11th minute under a downpour in northern Italy, before Marko Arnautovic rolled in his first goal of the campaign on the hour.

Inter Milan won their first match of this season's revamped Champions League on Tuesday by sweeping aside Red Star Belgrade 4-0 at the San Siro. A stunning free-kick from Hakan Calhanoglu opened the scoring in the 11th minute under a downpour in northern Italy, before Marko Arnautovic rolled in his first goal of the campaign on the hour. Captain Lautaro Martinez added a third in the 71st minute and shortly afterwards won the penalty from which Iran forward Mehdi Taremi completed a comfortable home success. Martinez, who was in line to take the spot-kick with Calhanoglu already substituted, handed Taremi the chance to score his first Inter goal past Israel international goalkeeper Omri Glazer. "I'm glad to score tonight, to play good. Thanks to my teammates. It was great," Taremi said to Sky before suggesting he expected a deep run from his new team. "Our goal as a big club is to reach the final, as Inter must try to win every game. We'll take it step by step." Tuesday's win moved the Italian champions up to four points and into the top eight positions of the new league phase of the elite club competition, from which teams qualify directly for the last 16, ahead of Wednesday's matches. It's too early to say whether Inter will avoid the play-offs come next year but Simone Inzaghi's side were too good for Red Star even with seven changes from the team which beat Udinese at the weekend. And Inter have already shown that they can tangle with the best in their goalless draw at Manchester City a fortnight ago. "It's a win that we needed after playing well in Manchester, but we need to keep moving in this direction," said Inzaghi. Red Star are in 32nd place after losing their first two matches and coach Vladan Milojevic lamented an error strewn performance. "We gave away four goals, I said after the Benfica game (lost 2-1) that we can't concede those sorts of goals... when you make these kinds of errors you can't do much else," he told reporters. - Ultras arrests - The match was played against the backdrop of mass arrests of leading figures within both Inter and AC Milan's hardcore ultras fan groups for a variety of crimes relating to illegal profits made around matches. Police arrested 19 people, almost all ultras, on Monday for "criminal conspiracy aggravated by mafia methods, extortion, assault and other serious crimes". The alleged crimes involve activities around the San Siro stadium on matchdays, ranging from ticket touting to control of parking, sales from concession stands and taking payment from people without tickets and letting them into the stadium. Monday's arrests came after a long investigation into both clubs' ultras and the shocking killing last month of Antonio Bellocco, the scion of a powerful 'Ndrangheta clan who was stabbed to death by fellow Inter ultra Andrea Beretta. Investigators from the finance police and anti-mafia authorities said on Monday that Inter and Milan were not being probed and that the pair had been "damaged" by the affair. Those arrests and the soaking wet weather in Milan didn't dampen the atmosphere in the Curva Nord section of the San Siro, where Inter's loudest fans stood and roared their team from the first minute. The whole stadium was on its feet and bouncing after Calhanoglu whipped in his beautiful free-kick to put the hosts ahead as Inter dominated proceedings. Also read: Arsenal beat PSG in Champions League duel, Dortmund thrash Celtic Arnautovic and Denzel Dumfries were both flagged offside as they netted while Henrikh Mkhitaryan wasted two great chances to add to Inter's deserved lead. Mkhitaryan just failed to get a proper foot on Piotr Zielinski's brilliant cross in the 58th minute, but moments later Arnautovic rolled in Inter's second after Taremi robbed the ball from former AC Milan midfielder Rade Krunic. Red Star crumbled and Martinez scored his third goal of the season after another fine assist from Taremi, who was given a gift from his Argentine strike partner as thanks for his sterling work up front which helped Inter secure a fine win. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Inter Milan thrash Red Star 4-0 to claim first Champions League win

Arsenal beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 in their heavyweight Champions League duel on Tuesday, while last season's beaten finalists Borussia&nbsp;Dortmund&nbsp;gave Celtic a brutal reality check with an emphatic 7-1 win in Germany.&nbsp;Dortmund&nbsp;were the biggest winners on a night which also saw Barcelona, Manchester City and Inter Milan claim one-sided victories and Champions League debutants Brest won 4-0 at Red Bull Salzburg.

The clash between Arsenal and French champions PSG in London was the big game of the day as the second round of matches in the new format of European football's elite club competition got underway. The Gunners were worthy winners with Kai Havertz heading in from a Leandro Trossard cross to open the scoring on 20 minutes and Bukayo Saka doubling their lead before half-time as his free-kick delivery from the right evaded everybody on its way in.

PSG saw Nuno Mendes strike the outside of the post from range in the first half while Joao Neves hit the woodwork after the break, but the visitors could not get back into the game. It is a first win in the Champions League this season for Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who drew 0-0 away to Atalanta on matchday one two weeks ago.

"Really, really happy with the performance," Arteta told broadcaster Amazon Prime. "The Champions League brings different demands but I think we handled it really well."

<h2>- Adeyemi hat-trick -</h2>

Dortmund&nbsp;are currently on top of the 36-team league after they followed a 3-0 win at Club Brugge in their first game by trouncing Scottish champions Celtic in Germany. Karim Adeyemi scored a hat-trick in the first half for&nbsp;Dortmund, who were 5-1 ahead at half-time. Emre Can opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Daizen Maeda equalised, but Adeyemi then took centre stage.

Serhou Guirassy netted a penalty before the interval and made it 6-1 midway through the second half, with substitute Felix Nmecha wrapping up the victory late on.

It is&nbsp;Dortmund's biggest winning margin in the Champions League alongside a 6-0 win away to Legia Warsaw in 2016.

"There's no such thing as a perfect game, but it was very, very good," said Can. "This has to be the standard we aim to set."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-arne-slot-expects-diogo-jota-to-be-fit-for-champions-league-clash-at-home-763671">Liverpool’s Arne Slot expects Diogo Jota to be fit for Champions League clash at home</a>

<h2>- Barcelona, Man City win -</h2>

Barcelona beat Swiss champions Young Boys 5-0 to bounce back from a 2-1 loss at Monaco a fortnight ago and their first defeat of the season in La Liga last weekend at Osasuna. Robert Lewandowski scored twice either side of goals by Raphinha and Inigo Martinez before a late Mohamed Ali Camara own goal wrapped up the victory.

"We knew after the game against Monaco in the Champions League we had to give a quick reply in the next game, which was this one, and we did that well," Raphinha told broadcaster Movistar.

Winners of the Champions League in 2023, Pep Guardiola's City were comfortable 4-0 winners away to Slovan Bratislava in Slovakia, with Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland and James McAtee getting the goals.

Inter, who lost to City in the final in Istanbul two seasons ago, won by the same scoreline at home to Red Star Belgrade.

Hakan Calhanoglu set Inter on their way with a stunning early free-kick before Marko Arnautovic, Lautaro Martinez and Mehdi Taremi all netted in the second half, the latter from a penalty.

German champions Bayer Leverkusen got their second straight win in this season's competition as a Victor Boniface goal early in the second half allowed them to beat AC Milan 1-0.

<h2>- Brest surprise -</h2>

Meanwhile Brest, the French Champions League newcomers, also made it two wins out of two with a remarkable 4-0 victory away to Salzburg in Austria. Senegal striker Abdallah Sima, the forward on loan from Brighton who got their winner against Sturm Graz two weeks ago, scored twice.

Mahdi Camara and Mathias Pereira Lage also found the target with Brest scoring three of their goals in the space of 10 second-half minutes.

Salzburg, Slovan Bratislava and Young Boys are the bottom three in the early standings. VfB Stuttgart and Sparta Prague drew 1-1 with Enzo Millot putting the German side ahead and Finnish international Kaan Kairinen equalising before the interval.

PSV Eindhoven and Sporting Lisbon also drew 1-1. Jerdy Schouten's opener for the Dutch champions was cancelled out by Daniel Braganca's late leveller.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Arsenal beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 in their heavyweight Champions League duel on Tuesday, while last season's beaten finalists Borussia Dortmund gave Celtic a brutal reality check with an emphatic 7-1 win in Germany.

Arsenal beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 in their heavyweight Champions League duel on Tuesday, while last season's beaten finalists Borussia Dortmund gave Celtic a brutal reality check with an emphatic 7-1 win in Germany. Dortmund were the biggest winners on a night which also saw Barcelona, Manchester City and Inter Milan claim one-sided victories and Champions League debutants Brest won 4-0 at Red Bull Salzburg. The clash between Arsenal and French champions PSG in London was the big game of the day as the second round of matches in the new format of European football's elite club competition got underway. The Gunners were worthy winners with Kai Havertz heading in from a Leandro Trossard cross to open the scoring on 20 minutes and Bukayo Saka doubling their lead before half-time as his free-kick delivery from the right evaded everybody on its way in. PSG saw Nuno Mendes strike the outside of the post from range in the first half while Joao Neves hit the woodwork after the break, but the visitors could not get back into the game. It is a first win in the Champions League this season for Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who drew 0-0 away to Atalanta on matchday one two weeks ago. "Really, really happy with the performance," Arteta told broadcaster Amazon Prime. "The Champions League brings different demands but I think we handled it really well." - Adeyemi hat-trick - Dortmund are currently on top of the 36-team league after they followed a 3-0 win at Club Brugge in their first game by trouncing Scottish champions Celtic in Germany. Karim Adeyemi scored a hat-trick in the first half for Dortmund, who were 5-1 ahead at half-time. Emre Can opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Daizen Maeda equalised, but Adeyemi then took centre stage. Serhou Guirassy netted a penalty before the interval and made it 6-1 midway through the second half, with substitute Felix Nmecha wrapping up the victory late on. It is Dortmund's biggest winning margin in the Champions League alongside a 6-0 win away to Legia Warsaw in 2016. "There's no such thing as a perfect game, but it was very, very good," said Can. "This has to be the standard we aim to set." Also read: Liverpool’s Arne Slot expects Diogo Jota to be fit for Champions League clash at home - Barcelona, Man City win - Barcelona beat Swiss champions Young Boys 5-0 to bounce back from a 2-1 loss at Monaco a fortnight ago and their first defeat of the season in La Liga last weekend at Osasuna. Robert Lewandowski scored twice either side of goals by Raphinha and Inigo Martinez before a late Mohamed Ali Camara own goal wrapped up the victory. "We knew after the game against Monaco in the Champions League we had to give a quick reply in the next game, which was this one, and we did that well," Raphinha told broadcaster Movistar. Winners of the Champions League in 2023, Pep Guardiola's City were comfortable 4-0 winners away to Slovan Bratislava in Slovakia, with Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland and James McAtee getting the goals. Inter, who lost to City in the final in Istanbul two seasons ago, won by the same scoreline at home to Red Star Belgrade. Hakan Calhanoglu set Inter on their way with a stunning early free-kick before Marko Arnautovic, Lautaro Martinez and Mehdi Taremi all netted in the second half, the latter from a penalty. German champions Bayer Leverkusen got their second straight win in this season's competition as a Victor Boniface goal early in the second half allowed them to beat AC Milan 1-0. - Brest surprise - Meanwhile Brest, the French Champions League newcomers, also made it two wins out of two with a remarkable 4-0 victory away to Salzburg in Austria. Senegal striker Abdallah Sima, the forward on loan from Brighton who got their winner against Sturm Graz two weeks ago, scored twice. Mahdi Camara and Mathias Pereira Lage also found the target with Brest scoring three of their goals in the space of 10 second-half minutes. Salzburg, Slovan Bratislava and Young Boys are the bottom three in the early standings. VfB Stuttgart and Sparta Prague drew 1-1 with Enzo Millot putting the German side ahead and Finnish international Kaan Kairinen equalising before the interval. PSV Eindhoven and Sporting Lisbon also drew 1-1. Jerdy Schouten's opener for the Dutch champions was cancelled out by Daniel Braganca's late leveller. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Arsenal beat PSG in Champions League duel, Dortmund thrash Celtic

Robert Lewandowski struck twice for Barcelona as they demolished Young Boys 5-0 in a one-sided&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;clash on Tuesday. The Catalan giants, five-time winners, made amends for their defeat by Monaco in their first match by thumping their Swiss visitors.

Raphinha and Inigo Martinez strikes as well as an own goal helped Hansi Flick's side secure a sizeable victory and boost their goal difference significantly. "We knew after the game against Monaco in the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;we had to give a quick reply in the next game, which was this one, and we did that well," Raphinha told Movistar.

"A couple of days ago we lost a game in La Liga too (at Osasuna) and we had to give a quick response, and we did that. "It's much easier playing here at home because of the joy (the fans) give us."

Raphinha said with the expanded&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;format and one table for all the teams, it was useful to build a good goal difference.

"It's important to score so many goals because at the end of the eight games, it will be handy," he added.&nbsp; Barca coach Flick rolled out arguably his strongest available team after the loss at Monaco, despite the Swiss side's struggles.

Young Boys are in the relegation zone of their domestic&nbsp;league&nbsp;with just one win in eight games and were thrashed at home by Aston Villa on their European debut this season. It took Barcelona just eight minutes to move ahead, with Lewandowski applying a poacher's finish to Raphinha's cross-shot.

Jules Kounde hammered over and Ferran Torres had a shot saved as Barcelona dominated, but Young Boys carved out a first opening after 30 minutes when Ebrima Colley pulled an effort wide.

Raphinha, enjoying a strong start to the campaign, doubled Barcelona's lead from close range after Pedri's shot was blocked but the ball ricocheted to his feet.

Centre-back Martinez headed home Barca's third from Pedri's free-kick shortly afterwards as the Catalans overran their ragged visitors.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-arsenal-beat-psg-in-champions-league-duel-dortmund-thrash-celtic-763755">Arsenal beat PSG in Champions League duel, Dortmund thrash Celtic</a>

<h2>- Barca romp -</h2>

Torres wasted a fine chance for the fourth when he fired straight at Young Boys goalkeeper Marvin Keller when well placed to score. Lewandowski netted his second with a close-range header after Martinez had nodded Lamine Yamal's corner back across the face of goal as Barcelona began the second half just how they finished the first.

It was the 36-year-old's ninth goal in 10 games this season as he enjoys a revival under his former Bayern Munich coach Flick.

Young Boys winger Joel Monteiro struck the crossbar but that was as close as the visitors came to joy in Catalonia.

Barcelona fans were pleased to see Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong come on as a substitute for his first appearance since an ankle injury in April as the game petered towards a close.

"For Frenkie today was an important step, to come back to the team after having suffered such a serious injury, playing some minutes today was important for him," said Flick. "We need to support him to get him back where he was. For that we need time and I'll give him time. I'm willing to make it my personal mission, he deserves it. "I see a lot of things I like from him, that's why he deserves our trust, and patience as well."

Mohamed Camara deflected Alejandro Balde's cross into his own goal for Barcelona's fifth in the 81st minute.

Home supporters chanted the name of former Barca midfield icon Andres Iniesta, after reports the Spanish 2010 World Cup winner will announce his retirement next week.

Monteiro had a late goal ruled out for offside and Inaki Pena made a smart save at his near post late on, with Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny watching on from the presidential box.

Barcelona are poised to sign the former Juventus and Arsenal stopper to replace the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Robert Lewandowski struck twice for Barcelona as they demolished Young Boys 5-0 in a one-sided Champions League clash on Tuesday. The Catalan giants, five-time winners, made amends for their defeat by Monaco in their first match by thumping their Swiss visitors.

Robert Lewandowski struck twice for Barcelona as they demolished Young Boys 5-0 in a one-sided Champions League clash on Tuesday. The Catalan giants, five-time winners, made amends for their defeat by Monaco in their first match by thumping their Swiss visitors. Raphinha and Inigo Martinez strikes as well as an own goal helped Hansi Flick's side secure a sizeable victory and boost their goal difference significantly. "We knew after the game against Monaco in the Champions League we had to give a quick reply in the next game, which was this one, and we did that well," Raphinha told Movistar. "A couple of days ago we lost a game in La Liga too (at Osasuna) and we had to give a quick response, and we did that. "It's much easier playing here at home because of the joy (the fans) give us." Raphinha said with the expanded Champions League format and one table for all the teams, it was useful to build a good goal difference. "It's important to score so many goals because at the end of the eight games, it will be handy," he added. Barca coach Flick rolled out arguably his strongest available team after the loss at Monaco, despite the Swiss side's struggles. Young Boys are in the relegation zone of their domestic league with just one win in eight games and were thrashed at home by Aston Villa on their European debut this season. It took Barcelona just eight minutes to move ahead, with Lewandowski applying a poacher's finish to Raphinha's cross-shot. Jules Kounde hammered over and Ferran Torres had a shot saved as Barcelona dominated, but Young Boys carved out a first opening after 30 minutes when Ebrima Colley pulled an effort wide. Raphinha, enjoying a strong start to the campaign, doubled Barcelona's lead from close range after Pedri's shot was blocked but the ball ricocheted to his feet. Centre-back Martinez headed home Barca's third from Pedri's free-kick shortly afterwards as the Catalans overran their ragged visitors. Also read: Arsenal beat PSG in Champions League duel, Dortmund thrash Celtic - Barca romp - Torres wasted a fine chance for the fourth when he fired straight at Young Boys goalkeeper Marvin Keller when well placed to score. Lewandowski netted his second with a close-range header after Martinez had nodded Lamine Yamal's corner back across the face of goal as Barcelona began the second half just how they finished the first. It was the 36-year-old's ninth goal in 10 games this season as he enjoys a revival under his former Bayern Munich coach Flick. Young Boys winger Joel Monteiro struck the crossbar but that was as close as the visitors came to joy in Catalonia. Barcelona fans were pleased to see Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong come on as a substitute for his first appearance since an ankle injury in April as the game petered towards a close. "For Frenkie today was an important step, to come back to the team after having suffered such a serious injury, playing some minutes today was important for him," said Flick. "We need to support him to get him back where he was. For that we need time and I'll give him time. I'm willing to make it my personal mission, he deserves it. "I see a lot of things I like from him, that's why he deserves our trust, and patience as well." Mohamed Camara deflected Alejandro Balde's cross into his own goal for Barcelona's fifth in the 81st minute. Home supporters chanted the name of former Barca midfield icon Andres Iniesta, after reports the Spanish 2010 World Cup winner will announce his retirement next week. Monteiro had a late goal ruled out for offside and Inaki Pena made a smart save at his near post late on, with Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny watching on from the presidential box. Barcelona are poised to sign the former Juventus and Arsenal stopper to replace the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UEFA Champions League: Robert Lewandowski hits brace as Barcelona crush Young Boys 5-0

Manchester City will look to put behind recent disappointment as they take on Slovan Bratislava in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday (Oct 2). While all eyes will be on Man City’s performance, star player Phil Foden will look to break his duck for this season so far. Foden is yet to score this season while Man City have won only one of their last four matches, raising question marks on the 2023 European champion’s performance.

<h2>Pep backs Foden</h2>

"Maybe I can have some doubts about many things, but Phil Foden is going to be back! As much as he feels good, he will be back," Guardiola told reporters.

"I think in 30 minutes at St James' Park [in a 1-1 draw against Newcastle on Saturday], I felt already something that I like that I didn't see for example, against Watford."

City drew blank in their opening Champions League match of the season after a stalemate against Italian side Inter Milan. They needed a stoppage time equaliser against Arsenal to rescue a point, while another draw against Newcastle United in the Premier League has seen them surrender the top spot.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/indian-side-mohun-bagan-sg-decides-against-travelling-to-iran-for-champions-league-2-clash-for-safety-reasons-763363">Indian side Mohun Bagan SG decides against travelling to Iran for Champions League 2 clash for safety reasons</a>

On the other hand, Foden has not reached the standards of last season, having failed to impress. He has started the recent four of the five matches on the bench and is yet to fire on all cylinders for the Blue side of Manchester.

Tuesday’s encounter will be the perfect stage for Foden to make his mark with Slovan Bratislava being humiliated 5-1 by Scottish champions Celtic on matchday 1.

Pep and Co have an easy next few games as they will face the likes of Fulham, Wolves, Sparta Praha and struggling Southampton in the coming weeks. City’s next big test will be the League Cup contest against Spurs at the end of the month.

Manchester City will look to put behind recent disappointment as they take on Slovan Bratislava in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday (Oct 2). While all eyes will be on Man City’s performance, star player Phil Foden will look to break his duck for this season so far.

Manchester City will look to put behind recent disappointment as they take on Slovan Bratislava in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday (Oct 2). While all eyes will be on Man City’s performance, star player Phil Foden will look to break his duck for this season so far. Foden is yet to score this season while Man City have won only one of their last four matches, raising question marks on the 2023 European champion’s performance. Pep backs Foden "Maybe I can have some doubts about many things, but Phil Foden is going to be back! As much as he feels good, he will be back," Guardiola told reporters. "I think in 30 minutes at St James' Park [in a 1-1 draw against Newcastle on Saturday], I felt already something that I like that I didn't see for example, against Watford." City drew blank in their opening Champions League match of the season after a stalemate against Italian side Inter Milan. They needed a stoppage time equaliser against Arsenal to rescue a point, while another draw against Newcastle United in the Premier League has seen them surrender the top spot. ALSO READ | Indian side Mohun Bagan SG decides against travelling to Iran for Champions League 2 clash for safety reasons On the other hand, Foden has not reached the standards of last season, having failed to impress. He has started the recent four of the five matches on the bench and is yet to fire on all cylinders for the Blue side of Manchester. Tuesday’s encounter will be the perfect stage for Foden to make his mark with Slovan Bratislava being humiliated 5-1 by Scottish champions Celtic on matchday 1. Pep and Co have an easy next few games as they will face the likes of Fulham, Wolves, Sparta Praha and struggling Southampton in the coming weeks. City’s next big test will be the League Cup contest against Spurs at the end of the month.

'Phil Foden is going to be back': Pep Guardiola backs misfiring Man City star ahead of Champions League clash

The 2027 men's Champions League final will not be played in Milan amid uncertainties over the future of the San Siro stadium, European football's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday.

"As the Municipality of Milano could not guarantee that the San Siro stadium and its surroundings would not be affected by refurbishment works in the period of the 2027 UEFA Champions League final, it was decided not to assign the final to Milan," UEFA said in a statement.

UEFA added it was reopening "the bidding process to appoint a suitable venue, with a decision expected in May/June 2025".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/just-accept-it-ravi-ashwin-on-india-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-calling-himself-fitter-than-virat-kohli-761506">'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli</a>

The 2026 final will be held in Budapest.

Budapest and Milan were the only candidates for the 2026 and 2027 finals.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 2027 men's Champions League final will not be played in Milan amid uncertainties over the future of the San Siro stadium, European football's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday.

The 2027 men's Champions League final will not be played in Milan amid uncertainties over the future of the San Siro stadium, European football's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday. "As the Municipality of Milano could not guarantee that the San Siro stadium and its surroundings would not be affected by refurbishment works in the period of the 2027 UEFA Champions League final, it was decided not to assign the final to Milan," UEFA said in a statement. UEFA added it was reopening "the bidding process to appoint a suitable venue, with a decision expected in May/June 2025". ALSO READ | 'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli The 2026 final will be held in Budapest. Budapest and Milan were the only candidates for the 2026 and 2027 finals. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Milan will not host 2027 men's Champions League final, bidding process reopened, says UEFA

French club Monaco upset 10-man Barcelona by grinding out a 2-1 victory on Thursday in the Champions League, while a stunning David Raya double-save ensured Arsenal a goalless draw away to Europa League winners Atalanta. Barca have started the season with a perfect record after five La Liga matches but, hindered by a red card in the 11th minute for Eric Garcia, fell to defeat on the French Riviera.

Maghnes Akliouche fired the French side into the lead five minutes after Garcia was dismissed for a last-man challenge on Takumi Minamino. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal equalised in the 28th minute with an arrowed shot after cutting in from the right onto his favoured left foot, but George Ilenikhena grabbed the winner for Monaco inside the final 20 minutes.

"After 10 minutes with the red card the game changed totally, but what I can see is really the positive thing," Barcelona coach Hansi Flick told reporters. "We tried to defend as a team and also attack as a team, and we had chances, but today they deserve the 2-1 (win), so we have to accept that."

In Italy, Arsenal goalkeeper Raya earned his side a point in a tough start to their campaign against Atalanta with a 0-0 draw. A tight match was lit up six minutes after the interval when Mateo Retegui saw Raya plunge down to his right to keep out his penalty, after a foul by Thomas Partey on Ederson.

The ball rebounded up in the air and Retegui looked set to casually nod the dropping ball into the gaping net but the Spaniard sprang to his feet and hurled himself back across the goal-line to claw the ball to safety.

"It's just a penalty and I was lucky to go the right way and save it," Raya told TNT Sports.&nbsp;"I was unlucky to give the rebound straight back to him but I was quick enough to get up and save it."

A 90th-minute header by Jose Maria Gimenez sent Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone scuttling down the touchline in delight as his side edged visitors RB Leipzig 2-1. Benjamin Sesko had put the German side in front just four minutes in, but Antoine Griezmann equalised just prior to the half-hour with a controlled finish from inside the penalty area.

The Frenchman then turned provider as he chipped a cross into the box, which Gimenez leapt highest to win at the back post and glance the ball back across Peter Gulacsi and into the Leipzig goal to spark wild celebrations in the Metropolitano Stadium.

"It's amazing, to get a last-minute goal like this is always fantastic and it's good to give the fans something to cheer about," Atletico's former Leipzig striker Alexander Sorloth told DAZN.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nca-charges-former-arsenal-forward-jay-emmanuel-thomas-over-cannabis-seizure-worth-ps600000-760190">NCA charges former Arsenal forward Jay Emmanuel-Thomas over cannabis seizure worth £600,000</a>

<h2>- 'Efficient' Leverkusen -</h2>

Bayer Leverkusen starlet Florian Wirtz enjoyed a dream Champions League debut as the Bundesliga champions thumped Dutch side Feyenoord 4-0 away from home. The 21-year-old scored a brace either side of an Alex Grimaldo strike before an own goal by Feyenoord goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther ensured Leverkusen had the points wrapped up by half-time.

"It may have looked pretty easy, but it's really not," Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso told reporters. "Overall it was a very serious, very efficient performance from us, but it's never easy."

French side Brest made a winning start in their first-ever appearance in European competition by seeing off Austria's Sturm Graz 2-1. Playing at Brittany rivals Guingamp's home ground as their own stadium does not meet UEFA standards, Brest took the lead midway through the first half through Hugo Magnetti.

An own-goal by Edimilson Fernandes on the stroke of half-time levelled matters but Abdallah Sima's smart finish in the 56th minute was enough to divide the sides. Benfica held on in Serbia against Red Star Belgrade to claim a 2-1 win courtesy of goals in the first half by Turkish duo Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu.

The second matchday of the Champions League league phase will take place on October 1 and 2 with Arsenal hosting Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich travelling to Aston Villa and reigning champions Real Madrid visiting Lille.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French club Monaco upset 10-man Barcelona by grinding out a 2-1 victory on Thursday in the Champions League, while a stunning David Raya double-save ensured Arsenal a goalless draw away to Europa League winners Atalanta.

French club Monaco upset 10-man Barcelona by grinding out a 2-1 victory on Thursday in the Champions League, while a stunning David Raya double-save ensured Arsenal a goalless draw away to Europa League winners Atalanta. Barca have started the season with a perfect record after five La Liga matches but, hindered by a red card in the 11th minute for Eric Garcia, fell to defeat on the French Riviera. Maghnes Akliouche fired the French side into the lead five minutes after Garcia was dismissed for a last-man challenge on Takumi Minamino. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal equalised in the 28th minute with an arrowed shot after cutting in from the right onto his favoured left foot, but George Ilenikhena grabbed the winner for Monaco inside the final 20 minutes. "After 10 minutes with the red card the game changed totally, but what I can see is really the positive thing," Barcelona coach Hansi Flick told reporters. "We tried to defend as a team and also attack as a team, and we had chances, but today they deserve the 2-1 (win), so we have to accept that." In Italy, Arsenal goalkeeper Raya earned his side a point in a tough start to their campaign against Atalanta with a 0-0 draw. A tight match was lit up six minutes after the interval when Mateo Retegui saw Raya plunge down to his right to keep out his penalty, after a foul by Thomas Partey on Ederson. The ball rebounded up in the air and Retegui looked set to casually nod the dropping ball into the gaping net but the Spaniard sprang to his feet and hurled himself back across the goal-line to claw the ball to safety. "It's just a penalty and I was lucky to go the right way and save it," Raya told TNT Sports. "I was unlucky to give the rebound straight back to him but I was quick enough to get up and save it." A 90th-minute header by Jose Maria Gimenez sent Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone scuttling down the touchline in delight as his side edged visitors RB Leipzig 2-1. Benjamin Sesko had put the German side in front just four minutes in, but Antoine Griezmann equalised just prior to the half-hour with a controlled finish from inside the penalty area. The Frenchman then turned provider as he chipped a cross into the box, which Gimenez leapt highest to win at the back post and glance the ball back across Peter Gulacsi and into the Leipzig goal to spark wild celebrations in the Metropolitano Stadium. "It's amazing, to get a last-minute goal like this is always fantastic and it's good to give the fans something to cheer about," Atletico's former Leipzig striker Alexander Sorloth told DAZN. Also read: NCA charges former Arsenal forward Jay Emmanuel-Thomas over cannabis seizure worth £600,000 - 'Efficient' Leverkusen - Bayer Leverkusen starlet Florian Wirtz enjoyed a dream Champions League debut as the Bundesliga champions thumped Dutch side Feyenoord 4-0 away from home. The 21-year-old scored a brace either side of an Alex Grimaldo strike before an own goal by Feyenoord goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther ensured Leverkusen had the points wrapped up by half-time. "It may have looked pretty easy, but it's really not," Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso told reporters. "Overall it was a very serious, very efficient performance from us, but it's never easy." French side Brest made a winning start in their first-ever appearance in European competition by seeing off Austria's Sturm Graz 2-1. Playing at Brittany rivals Guingamp's home ground as their own stadium does not meet UEFA standards, Brest took the lead midway through the first half through Hugo Magnetti. An own-goal by Edimilson Fernandes on the stroke of half-time levelled matters but Abdallah Sima's smart finish in the 56th minute was enough to divide the sides. Benfica held on in Serbia against Red Star Belgrade to claim a 2-1 win courtesy of goals in the first half by Turkish duo Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu. The second matchday of the Champions League league phase will take place on October 1 and 2 with Arsenal hosting Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich travelling to Aston Villa and reigning champions Real Madrid visiting Lille. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona stunned by Monaco as Arsenal held in UEFA Champions League stalemate

Manchester City made a sluggish start to their Champions League campaign as they drew 0-0 against Inter Milan on Wednesday, while Paris Saint-Germain needed a last-minute goal to beat tournament newcomers Girona. Pep Guardiola's side have won all four of their Premier League games this season but failed to break down Italian champions Inter in a repeat of the 2023 final won by City.

City lost Kevin De Bruyne to injury at half-time and Phil Foden fired straight at Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer with their best chance as Erling Haaland was kept quiet on a night he was chasing his 100th goal for the English club.

"It was a very intense game against a strong opponent. We knew what was coming, they are a top team as well and they are used to winning, so we were not going to have an easy job," City defender Ruben Dias told TNT Sports.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan could have won it for Inter when he blazed over 15 minutes from time, allowing City to extend their unbeaten run in the competition to 24 matches -- one off the record set by Manchester United between 2007 and 2009.

It is just the second time in 42 home Champions League games under Guardiola that City have failed to score. "Our plan was to show that we're not scared to play here," said Inter midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu.

PSG&nbsp;looked as if they would also have to settle for a point against European debutants Girona, who are backed by the City Football Group and ran Real Madrid close for several months in Spain last season before coming third.

However, a goalkeeping blunder from Paulo Gazzaniga in the 90th minute resulted in Nuno Mendes' cross squirming through his grasp and handed the French champions victory.

"It was a difficult game, they're a team that plays well with the ball," Mendes told Canal Plus. "I was surprised (by the goal). The goalkeeper was there and it got through."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-christian-eriksen-to-wait-before-settling-future-with-manchester-united-759894">Premier League: Christian Eriksen to wait before settling future with Manchester United</a>

<h2>- Super-sub Gittens propels Dortmund -</h2>

Last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund, beaten by Madrid in the final, had English winger Jamie Gittens to thank as the 20-year-old came off the bench and scored twice in a 3-0 win at Club Brugge. Serhou Guirassy added a stoppage-time penalty for his first Dortmund goal since arriving in the summer from Stuttgart.

Celtic began in style by thrashing Slovan Bratislava 5-1 in Glasgow, winning their opening game in the Champions League for the first time in 13 attempts. Liam Scales' powerful header put Celtic ahead and the hosts struck again through Kyogo Furuhashi early in the second half before Arne Engels converted a penalty for 3-0.

Kevin Wimmer pulled one back with a fine strike for the Slovak champions, who came through four rounds of qualifying, but Celtic pulled away with further goals from Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah.

"It's a fantastic night," Celtic captain Callum McGregor told TNT Sports. "I hope the supporters enjoyed it because the managers and players did. This is the next level for the group in terms of growth and development."

Bologna drew 0-0 at home to Shakhtar Donetsk in the Italian team's first ever Champions League match. Lukasz Skorupski saved an early penalty from Shakhtar's Georgiy Sudakov.

Sparta Prague swept Red Bull Salzburg aside 3-0 with goals from Kaan Kairinen, Victor Olatunji and Qazim Laci, as the Czech champions won for the first time in the competition proper since 2003.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester City made a sluggish start to their Champions League campaign as they drew 0-0 against Inter Milan on Wednesday, while Paris Saint-Germain needed a last-minute goal to beat tournament newcomers Girona.

Manchester City made a sluggish start to their Champions League campaign as they drew 0-0 against Inter Milan on Wednesday, while Paris Saint-Germain needed a last-minute goal to beat tournament newcomers Girona. Pep Guardiola's side have won all four of their Premier League games this season but failed to break down Italian champions Inter in a repeat of the 2023 final won by City. City lost Kevin De Bruyne to injury at half-time and Phil Foden fired straight at Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer with their best chance as Erling Haaland was kept quiet on a night he was chasing his 100th goal for the English club. "It was a very intense game against a strong opponent. We knew what was coming, they are a top team as well and they are used to winning, so we were not going to have an easy job," City defender Ruben Dias told TNT Sports. Henrikh Mkhitaryan could have won it for Inter when he blazed over 15 minutes from time, allowing City to extend their unbeaten run in the competition to 24 matches -- one off the record set by Manchester United between 2007 and 2009. It is just the second time in 42 home Champions League games under Guardiola that City have failed to score. "Our plan was to show that we're not scared to play here," said Inter midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu. PSG looked as if they would also have to settle for a point against European debutants Girona, who are backed by the City Football Group and ran Real Madrid close for several months in Spain last season before coming third. However, a goalkeeping blunder from Paulo Gazzaniga in the 90th minute resulted in Nuno Mendes' cross squirming through his grasp and handed the French champions victory. "It was a difficult game, they're a team that plays well with the ball," Mendes told Canal Plus. "I was surprised (by the goal). The goalkeeper was there and it got through." Also read: Premier League: Christian Eriksen to wait before settling future with Manchester United - Super-sub Gittens propels Dortmund - Last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund, beaten by Madrid in the final, had English winger Jamie Gittens to thank as the 20-year-old came off the bench and scored twice in a 3-0 win at Club Brugge. Serhou Guirassy added a stoppage-time penalty for his first Dortmund goal since arriving in the summer from Stuttgart. Celtic began in style by thrashing Slovan Bratislava 5-1 in Glasgow, winning their opening game in the Champions League for the first time in 13 attempts. Liam Scales' powerful header put Celtic ahead and the hosts struck again through Kyogo Furuhashi early in the second half before Arne Engels converted a penalty for 3-0. Kevin Wimmer pulled one back with a fine strike for the Slovak champions, who came through four rounds of qualifying, but Celtic pulled away with further goals from Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah. "It's a fantastic night," Celtic captain Callum McGregor told TNT Sports. "I hope the supporters enjoyed it because the managers and players did. This is the next level for the group in terms of growth and development." Bologna drew 0-0 at home to Shakhtar Donetsk in the Italian team's first ever Champions League match. Lukasz Skorupski saved an early penalty from Shakhtar's Georgiy Sudakov. Sparta Prague swept Red Bull Salzburg aside 3-0 with goals from Kaan Kairinen, Victor Olatunji and Qazim Laci, as the Czech champions won for the first time in the competition proper since 2003. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UEFA Champions League: Manchester City held by Inter Milan, PSG beat tournament newcomers Girona 1-0

Bayern Munich became the first team to score nine goals in a game in the modern Champions League as the new format of Europe's elite club competition kicked off on Tuesday, with title holders Real Madrid and Liverpool also among the winners.

Harry Kane scored four goals, including three penalties, as Vincent Kompany's Bayern hammered Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb 9-2 at the Allianz Arena.

Michael Olise scored twice on his Champions League debut, while Raphael Guerreiro, Leroy Sane and Leon Goretzka were also on target for the home team in Germany.

Dinamo were 3-0 down at the break but scored twice in two minutes just after half-time to give the hosts a scare, with Bruno Petkovic and Takuya Ogiwara on target. But Bayern then scored six times from the 57th minute onwards.

"An amazing game, a bit of a crazy game," Kane told broadcaster DAZN.&nbsp;

"It's the first time I've scored three (penalties) in a game. That doesn't happen at all really."

Bayern had been the last team to score eight in a Champions League match, when they beat Barcelona 8-2 in the quarter-finals in 2020.

It was a remarkable way to mark the opening night of the brand-new Champions League, with the competition now featuring 36 teams all pooled together in one giant league instead of the old group stage.

Every participant now plays eight games against eight different opponents, with the top eight teams at the end of the league phase advancing automatically to the last 16.

Those finishing from ninth to 24th will go through to a play-off round to decide the remaining sides in the last 16, while the bottom 12 will be eliminated.

UEFA, European football's governing body, introduced the new format to ward off the threat of a breakaway Super League by the biggest clubs, but it also hopes the changes will breathe new life into the competition.

<h2>Mbappe on target for Real</h2>

There was plenty of excitement around the continent on Tuesday, with reigning champions Madrid made to work hard before beating VfB Stuttgart 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Kylian Mbappe marked his first game in the competition with Real by scoring the opening goal just after half-time.

However, Deniz Undav equalised midway through the second half for a Stuttgart side appearing in the Champions League for the first time since 2010.

Real nevertheless emerged victorious as Antonio Rudiger headed them back in front against his old side seven minutes from time, and Brazilian youngster Endrick got the third goal in stoppage time.

"I know I can do more, each game I feel better and now I'm scoring goals, and I'm happy here," new signing Mbappe told broadcaster Movistar.

"What we know is that the Champions League has changed and it's important to win quickly to see if we can qualify quickly or not."

Liverpool marked their return to Europe's top table by coming from behind to win 3-1 away to seven-time champions AC Milan in Italy.

Christian Pulisic gave Milan an early lead, but Ibrahima Konate equalised and Virgil van Dijk headed the away side in front before the interval. Dominik Szoboszlai then wrapped up the victory for Liverpool at San Siro.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/manchester-citys-rodri-warns-of-strike-amid-growing-number-of-matches-759545">Manchester City's Rodri warns of STRIKE amid growing number of matches</a>

<h2>Villa back in the big time</h2>

Aston Villa enjoyed a 3-0 win away to Swiss champions Young Boys in Bern in their first ever match in the modern Champions League, 41 years after they last appeared in the old European Cup.

Youri Tielemans and Jacob Ramsey scored in the first half for the 1982 European champions, and Amadou Onana completed their victory late on.

Villa boss Unai Emery wanted his team to take three points as a tribute to the club's former striker Gary Shaw, a member of their European Cup-winning side who died on Monday aged 63 after being injured in a fall.

"Forty-two years (ago) they achieved winning the Champions League. We want to try and follow what that team achieved," Emery said.

Elsewhere Juventus beat PSV Eindhoven 3-1 in Turin, with Kenan Yildiz opening the scoring in some style and Weston McKennie and Nicolas Gonzalez also netting. Ismael Saibari pulled one back.

Portuguese champions Sporting beat Lille 2-0 at home, with impressive Swedish striker Viktor Gyoekeres on target before a Zeno Debast piledriver. The French side had Angel Gomes sent off.

The action continues on Wednesday, including a rematch of the 2023 final between Manchester City and Inter Milan.

Bayern Munich became the first team to score nine goals in a game in the modern Champions League as the new format of Europe's elite club competition kicked off on Tuesday, with title holders Real Madrid and Liverpool also among the winners.

Bayern Munich became the first team to score nine goals in a game in the modern Champions League as the new format of Europe's elite club competition kicked off on Tuesday, with title holders Real Madrid and Liverpool also among the winners. Harry Kane scored four goals, including three penalties, as Vincent Kompany's Bayern hammered Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb 9-2 at the Allianz Arena. Michael Olise scored twice on his Champions League debut, while Raphael Guerreiro, Leroy Sane and Leon Goretzka were also on target for the home team in Germany. Dinamo were 3-0 down at the break but scored twice in two minutes just after half-time to give the hosts a scare, with Bruno Petkovic and Takuya Ogiwara on target. But Bayern then scored six times from the 57th minute onwards. "An amazing game, a bit of a crazy game," Kane told broadcaster DAZN. "It's the first time I've scored three (penalties) in a game. That doesn't happen at all really." Bayern had been the last team to score eight in a Champions League match, when they beat Barcelona 8-2 in the quarter-finals in 2020. It was a remarkable way to mark the opening night of the brand-new Champions League, with the competition now featuring 36 teams all pooled together in one giant league instead of the old group stage. Every participant now plays eight games against eight different opponents, with the top eight teams at the end of the league phase advancing automatically to the last 16. Those finishing from ninth to 24th will go through to a play-off round to decide the remaining sides in the last 16, while the bottom 12 will be eliminated. UEFA, European football's governing body, introduced the new format to ward off the threat of a breakaway Super League by the biggest clubs, but it also hopes the changes will breathe new life into the competition. Mbappe on target for Real There was plenty of excitement around the continent on Tuesday, with reigning champions Madrid made to work hard before beating VfB Stuttgart 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. Kylian Mbappe marked his first game in the competition with Real by scoring the opening goal just after half-time. However, Deniz Undav equalised midway through the second half for a Stuttgart side appearing in the Champions League for the first time since 2010. Real nevertheless emerged victorious as Antonio Rudiger headed them back in front against his old side seven minutes from time, and Brazilian youngster Endrick got the third goal in stoppage time. "I know I can do more, each game I feel better and now I'm scoring goals, and I'm happy here," new signing Mbappe told broadcaster Movistar. "What we know is that the Champions League has changed and it's important to win quickly to see if we can qualify quickly or not." Liverpool marked their return to Europe's top table by coming from behind to win 3-1 away to seven-time champions AC Milan in Italy. Christian Pulisic gave Milan an early lead, but Ibrahima Konate equalised and Virgil van Dijk headed the away side in front before the interval. Dominik Szoboszlai then wrapped up the victory for Liverpool at San Siro. ALSO READ | Manchester City's Rodri warns of STRIKE amid growing number of matches Villa back in the big time Aston Villa enjoyed a 3-0 win away to Swiss champions Young Boys in Bern in their first ever match in the modern Champions League, 41 years after they last appeared in the old European Cup. Youri Tielemans and Jacob Ramsey scored in the first half for the 1982 European champions, and Amadou Onana completed their victory late on. Villa boss Unai Emery wanted his team to take three points as a tribute to the club's former striker Gary Shaw, a member of their European Cup-winning side who died on Monday aged 63 after being injured in a fall. "Forty-two years (ago) they achieved winning the Champions League. We want to try and follow what that team achieved," Emery said. Elsewhere Juventus beat PSV Eindhoven 3-1 in Turin, with Kenan Yildiz opening the scoring in some style and Weston McKennie and Nicolas Gonzalez also netting. Ismael Saibari pulled one back. Portuguese champions Sporting beat Lille 2-0 at home, with impressive Swedish striker Viktor Gyoekeres on target before a Zeno Debast piledriver. The French side had Angel Gomes sent off. The action continues on Wednesday, including a rematch of the 2023 final between Manchester City and Inter Milan.

Champions League: Bayern hit nine, Real Madrid and Liverpool win on opening night of revamped format

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has warned that leading footballers could go on strike if clubs continue to face an ever-expanding schedule.

City, the 2023 Champions League winners, face Italian giants Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, in their first match of the competition's new league phase.

The expanded 36-team tournament will see all clubs play eight league fixtures, with 16 teams to play in an extra two-legged play-off round before the last 16.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-202425-arsenal-players-not-flustered-by-erling-haalands-relentless-form-says-jorginho-759452">Premier League 2024/25: Arsenal players not flustered by Erling Haaland's relentless form, says Jorginho</a>

City will also compete in an expanded Club World Cup at the end of the season.

"I think we are close to that. I think if you ask any player, he will say the same," said Rodri when asked on Tuesday if there was a possibility of players going on strike.

"It is not the opinion of Rodri or whatever. I think it's the general opinion of the players."

"And if it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option, I really think, but let's see," he added.

"I don't know what's going to happen, but it's something that worries us because we are the guys that suffer."

<h2>'Impossible to sustain the level'</h2>

City could play as many as 75 games this season, with international players set for an even heavier workload.

"From my experience between 40-50 is the amount of games in which a player can perform in the highest level," said Rodri, who made his first City appearance of the season in Saturday's win over Brentford.

"After that, you drop because it is impossible to sustain the physical level... Someone has to take care of ourselves because we are the main characters of this sport or business or whatever you want to call it."

City manager Pep Guardiola was more reserved, however, saying: "We are in our first game, then the second and we will see what happens in the last games to go through.

"It is not necessary to look now. It's in the future. We will see."

Rodri's comments echoed those of Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who said players were being ignored by football chiefs when it came to the issue of fixture congestion.

Liverpool are away to AC Milan on Tuesday in their opening fixture.

"Sometimes nobody asks the players what they think about adding more games," Alisson told reporters on Monday.

"Maybe our opinion doesn't matter, but everybody knows what we think about having more games. Everybody's tired of that."

England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) is involved in two separate legal challenges to FIFA, the sport's global governing body, over the calendar and its introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup.

"This is the year when we can look at the calendar and say clearly, 'This doesn't work'. Players see that, and they are now experiencing it," PFA chief executive Maheta Molango, responding to Rodri's comments, said.

"Those who run the game must now sit up and take notice."

FIFA is yet to reply to Rodri's remarks, but has previously slammed European leagues for their "commercial hypocrisy".

"Those leagues apparently prefer a calendar filled with friendlies and summer tours, often involving extensive global travel," FIFA said in July.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has warned that leading footballers could go on strike if clubs continue to face an ever-expanding schedule. City, the 2023 Champions League winners, face Italian giants Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, in their first match of the competition's new league phase.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has warned that leading footballers could go on strike if clubs continue to face an ever-expanding schedule. City, the 2023 Champions League winners, face Italian giants Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, in their first match of the competition's new league phase. The expanded 36-team tournament will see all clubs play eight league fixtures, with 16 teams to play in an extra two-legged play-off round before the last 16. Also Read: Premier League 2024/25: Arsenal players not flustered by Erling Haaland's relentless form, says Jorginho City will also compete in an expanded Club World Cup at the end of the season. "I think we are close to that. I think if you ask any player, he will say the same," said Rodri when asked on Tuesday if there was a possibility of players going on strike. "It is not the opinion of Rodri or whatever. I think it's the general opinion of the players." "And if it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option, I really think, but let's see," he added. "I don't know what's going to happen, but it's something that worries us because we are the guys that suffer." 'Impossible to sustain the level' City could play as many as 75 games this season, with international players set for an even heavier workload. "From my experience between 40-50 is the amount of games in which a player can perform in the highest level," said Rodri, who made his first City appearance of the season in Saturday's win over Brentford. "After that, you drop because it is impossible to sustain the physical level... Someone has to take care of ourselves because we are the main characters of this sport or business or whatever you want to call it." City manager Pep Guardiola was more reserved, however, saying: "We are in our first game, then the second and we will see what happens in the last games to go through. "It is not necessary to look now. It's in the future. We will see." Rodri's comments echoed those of Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who said players were being ignored by football chiefs when it came to the issue of fixture congestion. Liverpool are away to AC Milan on Tuesday in their opening fixture. "Sometimes nobody asks the players what they think about adding more games," Alisson told reporters on Monday. "Maybe our opinion doesn't matter, but everybody knows what we think about having more games. Everybody's tired of that." England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) is involved in two separate legal challenges to FIFA, the sport's global governing body, over the calendar and its introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup. "This is the year when we can look at the calendar and say clearly, 'This doesn't work'. Players see that, and they are now experiencing it," PFA chief executive Maheta Molango, responding to Rodri's comments, said. "Those who run the game must now sit up and take notice." FIFA is yet to reply to Rodri's remarks, but has previously slammed European leagues for their "commercial hypocrisy". "Those leagues apparently prefer a calendar filled with friendlies and summer tours, often involving extensive global travel," FIFA said in July. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester City's Rodri warns of STRIKE amid growing number of matches

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Monday midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni are back from injury as Los Blancos begin the defence of their Champions League trophy. The record 15-time winners and current holders face German side Stuttgart on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu and are boosted by the return of England international Bellingham and France's Tchouameni.

Defender Eder Militao did not train on Monday but Ancelotti said the Brazilian would also be ready for the clash. "Bellingham is good, just as Tchouameni is good, and Militao too for tomorrow, who didn't train today because he needed one more day of recovery," said Ancelotti. "Two important players are back, but we also have the bad luck to have lost another important player (Brahim Diaz)."

Bellingham, who began the season in a deeper midfield role than in the previous campaign, suffered a calf injury in August which forced him out of four La Liga matches. "(His return) is fantastic news, for what he brings in a football sense, as well as beyond that," said Dani Carvajal. "To see him in the squad again is great, we count on him."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-virgil-van-dijk-urges-liverpool-to-hit-back-after-unacceptable-nottingham-forest-loss-759085">Premier League: Virgil Van Dijk urges Liverpool to hit back after 'unacceptable' Nottingham Forest loss</a>

The midfielder was crucial last season on the way to the Wembley final where Madrid beat his former side Borussia Dortmund. Ancelotti said his team was just as hungry to win the competition this year.

"We're as (excited) as always, what this competition brings us, where this club has been such a protagonist for so long, and keeps being one," added Ancelotti. "The Champions League is special for Real Madrid, we will try to compete until the end."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Monday midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni are back from injury as Los Blancos begin the defence of their Champions League trophy.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Monday midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni are back from injury as Los Blancos begin the defence of their Champions League trophy. The record 15-time winners and current holders face German side Stuttgart on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu and are boosted by the return of England international Bellingham and France's Tchouameni. Defender Eder Militao did not train on Monday but Ancelotti said the Brazilian would also be ready for the clash. "Bellingham is good, just as Tchouameni is good, and Militao too for tomorrow, who didn't train today because he needed one more day of recovery," said Ancelotti. "Two important players are back, but we also have the bad luck to have lost another important player (Brahim Diaz)." Bellingham, who began the season in a deeper midfield role than in the previous campaign, suffered a calf injury in August which forced him out of four La Liga matches. "(His return) is fantastic news, for what he brings in a football sense, as well as beyond that," said Dani Carvajal. "To see him in the squad again is great, we count on him." Also read: Premier League: Virgil Van Dijk urges Liverpool to hit back after 'unacceptable' Nottingham Forest loss The midfielder was crucial last season on the way to the Wembley final where Madrid beat his former side Borussia Dortmund. Ancelotti said his team was just as hungry to win the competition this year. "We're as (excited) as always, what this competition brings us, where this club has been such a protagonist for so long, and keeps being one," added Ancelotti. "The Champions League is special for Real Madrid, we will try to compete until the end." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni back for Real Madrid's Champions League opener, confirms Carlo Ancelotti

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was honoured with a special Champions League&nbsp;all-time leading goal-scorer award by the UEFA on Thursday (Aug 29). He received the special award by UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin for&nbsp;his remarkable achievements and enduring legacy in the European club football. Ronaldo, the Al-Nassr striker, was handed&nbsp;the special award during the inaugural 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 36-team league phase draw ceremony, which was held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco on Thursday.

Ronaldo has had an incredible run in the Champions League history. With more&nbsp;than 18 years, the 39-year-old superstar has scored as many as 140 goals, in 183 appearances, which adds to his legendary status. His overall appearances have come&nbsp;across spells with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, leaving a mark&nbsp;in the competition with every club he has represented.&nbsp;

Notably, Ronaldo became the first player to score in three finals, displaying his ability to perform under&nbsp;pressure. Additionally, his feat of scoring in as many as&nbsp;11 consecutive Champions League matches is a record that would take some doing to be broken.

Here is the video of him receiving the special award by the UEFA President:

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140 goals 🔥🔥🔥 
 
Cristiano Ronaldo recieves his Champions League's all-time top goal scorer award 🥇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/iSmDHquNPL">pic.twitter.com/iSmDHquNPL</a>
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballontnt/status/1829193217226494146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-draw-bayern-barcelona-real-madrid-liverpool-to-meet-in-revamped-league-phase-format-754438">Champions League Draw: Bayern-Barcelona, Real Madrid-Liverpool to meet in revamped league phase format</a>

The UEFA President lauded Ronaldo and said, "Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goalscoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass. His sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honours. Over more than two decades, he has continuously evolved and refined his game while preserving a youthful passion for scoring and celebrating goals. His professionalism, work ethic, dedication and ability to shine on the grandest stage are qualities that football players everywhere should aspire to emulate."

A five-time winner of the Champions League, Ronaldo's legacy at the European competition remains unmatched.

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was honoured with a special Champions League all-time leading goal-scorer award by the UEFA on Thursday (Aug 29). He received the special award by UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin for his remarkable achievements and enduring legacy in the European club football.

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was honoured with a special Champions League all-time leading goal-scorer award by the UEFA on Thursday (Aug 29). He received the special award by UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin for his remarkable achievements and enduring legacy in the European club football. Ronaldo, the Al-Nassr striker, was handed the special award during the inaugural 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 36-team league phase draw ceremony, which was held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco on Thursday. Ronaldo has had an incredible run in the Champions League history. With more than 18 years, the 39-year-old superstar has scored as many as 140 goals, in 183 appearances, which adds to his legendary status. His overall appearances have come across spells with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, leaving a mark in the competition with every club he has represented. Notably, Ronaldo became the first player to score in three finals, displaying his ability to perform under pressure. Additionally, his feat of scoring in as many as 11 consecutive Champions League matches is a record that would take some doing to be broken. Here is the video of him receiving the special award by the UEFA President: 140 goals 🔥🔥🔥 Cristiano Ronaldo recieves his Champions League's all-time top goal scorer award 🥇#UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/iSmDHquNPL — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 29, 2024 × Also read: Champions League Draw: Bayern-Barcelona, Real Madrid-Liverpool to meet in revamped league phase format The UEFA President lauded Ronaldo and said, "Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goalscoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass. His sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honours. Over more than two decades, he has continuously evolved and refined his game while preserving a youthful passion for scoring and celebrating goals. His professionalism, work ethic, dedication and ability to shine on the grandest stage are qualities that football players everywhere should aspire to emulate." A five-time winner of the Champions League, Ronaldo's legacy at the European competition remains unmatched.

WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo receives special Champions League top goal-scorer award by UEFA

Holders Real Madrid will meet Liverpool in the new-looked Champions League format as draws for the initial phase of the 2024-25 season were made on Thursday (Aug 29). Both Real Madrid and Liverpool share a whopping 21 Champions League titles between them and will meet after a computerised draw was carried out in Monaco. Other crunch tie in the revamped phase include&nbsp;Bayern Munich’s meeting with Barcelona.

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✅ Home and away opponents for Pot 4 teams 🏠✈️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/G22WtdPeMb">pic.twitter.com/G22WtdPeMb</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1829207470172143745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Real Madrid face Liverpool</h2>

In a repeat of the 2018 and 2022 Champions League final, holders Real will face Liverpool in the revamped league phase with the tie taking place at the iconic Anfield Stadium. The clash will be iconic considering both teams have a rich history in the competition. Real will also face AC Milan in the league phase with both teams sharing 15 and seven titles respectively.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side also face&nbsp;Borussia Dortmund and Salzburg at home while Atalanta and Lille await in the away ties.

Bayern Munich and Barcelona meet in another big tie of the Champions League initial phase. The last two times Bayern and Barcelona have met in the initial phase the latter has failed to qualify for the knockout stage. The most famous meeting between the sides came in August 2020 when Bayern beat Barcelona 8-2 in a single-legged contest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/romelu-lukaku-signs-for-napoli-from-chelsea-to-play-for-third-different-italian-side-754427">Romelu Lukaku signs for Napoli from Chelsea, to play for third different Italian side</a>

REAL MADRID (ESP)

Borussia Dortmund (h), Liverpool (a), AC Milan (h), Atalanta (a), Salzburg (h), Lille (a), VfB Stuttgart (h), Brest (a)

MANCHESTER CITY (ENG)

Inter Milan (h), Paris Saint-Germain (a), Club Brugge (h), Juventus (a), Feyenoord (h), Sporting Lisbon (a), Sparta Prague (h), Slovan Bratislava (a)

BAYERN MUNICH (GER)

Paris Saint-Germain (h), Barcelona (a), Benfica (h), Shakhtar Donetsk (a), Dinamo Zagreb (h), Feyenoord (a), Slovan Bratislava (h), Aston Villa (a)

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN (FRA)

Manchester City (h), Bayern Munich (a), Atletico Madrid (h), Arsenal (a), PSV Eindhoven (h), Salzburg (a), Girona (h), VfB Stuttgart (a)&nbsp;

LIVERPOOL (ENG)

Real Madrid (h), RB Leipzig (a), Bayer Leverkusen (h), AC Milan (a), Lille (h), PSV Eindhoven (a), Bologna (h), Girona (a)

The dates for the fixtures will be announced on Saturday (Aug 31) after a meeting with the broadcasters.

Holders Real Madrid will meet Liverpool in the new-looked Champions League format as draws for the initial phase of the 2024-25 season were made on Thursday (Aug 29).

Holders Real Madrid will meet Liverpool in the new-looked Champions League format as draws for the initial phase of the 2024-25 season were made on Thursday (Aug 29). Both Real Madrid and Liverpool share a whopping 21 Champions League titles between them and will meet after a computerised draw was carried out in Monaco. Other crunch tie in the revamped phase include Bayern Munich’s meeting with Barcelona. ✅ Home and away opponents for Pot 4 teams 🏠✈️#UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/G22WtdPeMb — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 29, 2024 × Real Madrid face Liverpool In a repeat of the 2018 and 2022 Champions League final, holders Real will face Liverpool in the revamped league phase with the tie taking place at the iconic Anfield Stadium. The clash will be iconic considering both teams have a rich history in the competition. Real will also face AC Milan in the league phase with both teams sharing 15 and seven titles respectively. Carlo Ancelotti’s side also face Borussia Dortmund and Salzburg at home while Atalanta and Lille await in the away ties. Bayern Munich and Barcelona meet in another big tie of the Champions League initial phase. The last two times Bayern and Barcelona have met in the initial phase the latter has failed to qualify for the knockout stage. The most famous meeting between the sides came in August 2020 when Bayern beat Barcelona 8-2 in a single-legged contest. ALSO READ | Romelu Lukaku signs for Napoli from Chelsea, to play for third different Italian side REAL MADRID (ESP) Borussia Dortmund (h), Liverpool (a), AC Milan (h), Atalanta (a), Salzburg (h), Lille (a), VfB Stuttgart (h), Brest (a) MANCHESTER CITY (ENG) Inter Milan (h), Paris Saint-Germain (a), Club Brugge (h), Juventus (a), Feyenoord (h), Sporting Lisbon (a), Sparta Prague (h), Slovan Bratislava (a) BAYERN MUNICH (GER) Paris Saint-Germain (h), Barcelona (a), Benfica (h), Shakhtar Donetsk (a), Dinamo Zagreb (h), Feyenoord (a), Slovan Bratislava (h), Aston Villa (a) PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN (FRA) Manchester City (h), Bayern Munich (a), Atletico Madrid (h), Arsenal (a), PSV Eindhoven (h), Salzburg (a), Girona (h), VfB Stuttgart (a) LIVERPOOL (ENG) Real Madrid (h), RB Leipzig (a), Bayer Leverkusen (h), AC Milan (a), Lille (h), PSV Eindhoven (a), Bologna (h), Girona (a) The dates for the fixtures will be announced on Saturday (Aug 31) after a meeting with the broadcasters.

Champions League Draw: Bayern-Barcelona, Real Madrid-Liverpool to meet in revamped league phase format

Real Madrid extended their European dominance in the early hours of Sunday (June 2)&nbsp;after&nbsp;clinching&nbsp;their 15th Champions League title with a 2-0 win over German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund. The contest played at the Wembley Stadium in London saw Real add to their already impressive trophy cabinet while Dortmund lost their second final at the venue having suffered the same fate against Bayern Munich in 2013.

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<h2>Real Madrid start slow in title-winning run</h2>

Entering as the favourites to win the Champions League final, Real were completely outplayed in the opening half after Karim Adeyemi had a series of chances. The German youngster almost opened the scoring at the midway point in the first half but failed to capitalise on a thorough ball. Minutes later he again was at the center of things when Dortmund unlocked Real defence and found Niclas Füllkrug who hit the post.

After a quiet first half, Real made some adjustments and got the reward in the 74th minute when a corner was met with a looping header by defender Dani Carvajal who notched the opening goal. The lead was vital as Dortmund were left with no option back to open the backdoors and attack at full throttle. This left their defense vulnerable and provided Real Madrid with openings to score a second goal.

Eventually, in the 83rd minute, the&nbsp;2022 Champions League winner Vinicius Jr&nbsp;scored the second goal and sealed Real’s 15th title in the competition. Dortmund had a late Füllkrug effort in the Real goal, but it was ruled out for offside.

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<h2>Real extend dominance</h2>

The title is Real’s sixth in the last 11 seasons of the Champions League as they now stand tall with 15 titles overall. Departing heroes Toni Kross, Luka Modric, Dani Carvajal and Nacho Fernandez have now won the Champions League on six occasions taking them level with Francisco Gento who achieved the same feat with Real Madrid in the 1960s. Coach Carlo Ancelotti also won his fifth Champions League title, third with Real as he too extended his legacy in the competition. He also had won two titles with AC Milan in his playing days.

Real’s title win also sees them complete the season with a double of La Liga and Champions League and will now face Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup at the start of next season.

Real Madrid extended their European dominance in the early hours of Sunday (June 2) after clinching their 15th Champions League title with a 2-0 win over German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund.

Real Madrid extended their European dominance in the early hours of Sunday (June 2) after clinching their 15th Champions League title with a 2-0 win over German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund. The contest played at the Wembley Stadium in London saw Real add to their already impressive trophy cabinet while Dortmund lost their second final at the venue having suffered the same fate against Bayern Munich in 2013. 🏆 WE ARE THE #CHAMP15NS OF EUROPE! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/EURIV8tkpy — Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) June 1, 2024 × Real Madrid start slow in title-winning run Entering as the favourites to win the Champions League final, Real were completely outplayed in the opening half after Karim Adeyemi had a series of chances. The German youngster almost opened the scoring at the midway point in the first half but failed to capitalise on a thorough ball. Minutes later he again was at the center of things when Dortmund unlocked Real defence and found Niclas Füllkrug who hit the post. After a quiet first half, Real made some adjustments and got the reward in the 74th minute when a corner was met with a looping header by defender Dani Carvajal who notched the opening goal. The lead was vital as Dortmund were left with no option back to open the backdoors and attack at full throttle. This left their defense vulnerable and provided Real Madrid with openings to score a second goal. Eventually, in the 83rd minute, the 2022 Champions League winner Vinicius Jr scored the second goal and sealed Real’s 15th title in the competition. Dortmund had a late Füllkrug effort in the Real goal, but it was ruled out for offside. ALSO READ | WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo in tears after Al-Nassr lose to arch-rivals Al-Hilal in Kings Cup final Real extend dominance The title is Real’s sixth in the last 11 seasons of the Champions League as they now stand tall with 15 titles overall. Departing heroes Toni Kross, Luka Modric, Dani Carvajal and Nacho Fernandez have now won the Champions League on six occasions taking them level with Francisco Gento who achieved the same feat with Real Madrid in the 1960s. Coach Carlo Ancelotti also won his fifth Champions League title, third with Real as he too extended his legacy in the competition. He also had won two titles with AC Milan in his playing days. Real’s title win also sees them complete the season with a double of La Liga and Champions League and will now face Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup at the start of next season.

Champions League Final: Real Madrid extend European dominance with 15th title after beating Borussia Dortmund

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti ended the suspense on the club’s goalkeeper issue ahead of the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund. Ancelotti, participating in his sixth final in Europe’s biggest club competition will opt for experienced Thibaut Courtois who will start in place of the impressive Andriy Lunin who has previously started in all knockout stage games. Real will play Dortmund in London’s Wembley Stadium on Saturday (June 1) as they target their 15th title at the continental level.

<h2>Courtois gets the nod ahead of Lunin</h2>

"Lunin has had flu, he hasn't been able to train," Ancelotti said in his pre-final news conference on Friday. "He'll travel tomorrow. He'll be on the bench, so Courtois will play."

An Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) had limited Courtois’ participation in the Champions League this season, having spent the majority of the season on the sidelines. However, he will be available for two reasons in the final – his experience playing in big matches while Lunin has only recovered from the flu which kept him away from training with the rest of the squad in the midweek.

Interestingly, this will be Courtois’ first appearance in this season’s Champions League and will once again go for an extended break after missing out on the Belgium squad for the Euro 2024. Ancelotti will hope his first-choice goalkeeper is in great form when he takes guard in his sixth Champions League final. He has an impeccable record in the European Cup finals having lost only once on previous five occasions when Liverpool came from 3-0 to beat his AC Milan side in 2005 in Istanbul.

"A final is a final, it's the most important game and the most dangerous," Ancelotti said. "You have to enjoy being here, and then you start to worry that it could go badly.

"You're close to the most important thing in football, winning the Champions League, and you're scared that it could get away ... The more fear you have, the happier you are when you win it."

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<h2>Emotions running high ahead of the final</h2>

The Champions League final will be a special occasion for several players including Toni Kroos, Nacho Fernandez and Marco Reus. While Fernandez and Reus bid farewell to their respective clubs, this will be Kroos’ final club game before he hangs his boots and departs for Germany where again he will retire from all forms of the game.

Interestingly, speculations are also rife that Luka Modric could announce his retirement from the game at club level and thus vacate his No.10 jersey for new Galactico Kylian Mbappe. He alongside, Kroos, Fernandes and Dani Carvajal could win their sixth Champions League title, joining club legend Paco Gento as the most successful player in the history of the competition.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti ended the suspense on the club’s goalkeeper issue ahead of the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund. Ancelotti, participating in his sixth final in Europe’s biggest club competition will opt for experienced Thibaut Courtois who will start in place of the impressive Andriy Lunin who has previously started in all knockout stage games.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti ended the suspense on the club’s goalkeeper issue ahead of the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund. Ancelotti, participating in his sixth final in Europe’s biggest club competition will opt for experienced Thibaut Courtois who will start in place of the impressive Andriy Lunin who has previously started in all knockout stage games. Real will play Dortmund in London’s Wembley Stadium on Saturday (June 1) as they target their 15th title at the continental level. Courtois gets the nod ahead of Lunin "Lunin has had flu, he hasn't been able to train," Ancelotti said in his pre-final news conference on Friday. "He'll travel tomorrow. He'll be on the bench, so Courtois will play." An Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) had limited Courtois’ participation in the Champions League this season, having spent the majority of the season on the sidelines. However, he will be available for two reasons in the final – his experience playing in big matches while Lunin has only recovered from the flu which kept him away from training with the rest of the squad in the midweek. Interestingly, this will be Courtois’ first appearance in this season’s Champions League and will once again go for an extended break after missing out on the Belgium squad for the Euro 2024. Ancelotti will hope his first-choice goalkeeper is in great form when he takes guard in his sixth Champions League final. He has an impeccable record in the European Cup finals having lost only once on previous five occasions when Liverpool came from 3-0 to beat his AC Milan side in 2005 in Istanbul. "A final is a final, it's the most important game and the most dangerous," Ancelotti said. "You have to enjoy being here, and then you start to worry that it could go badly. "You're close to the most important thing in football, winning the Champions League, and you're scared that it could get away ... The more fear you have, the happier you are when you win it." ALSO READ | FIFA extends protection to female players and coaches in HISTORIC decision Emotions running high ahead of the final The Champions League final will be a special occasion for several players including Toni Kroos, Nacho Fernandez and Marco Reus. While Fernandez and Reus bid farewell to their respective clubs, this will be Kroos’ final club game before he hangs his boots and departs for Germany where again he will retire from all forms of the game. Interestingly, speculations are also rife that Luka Modric could announce his retirement from the game at club level and thus vacate his No.10 jersey for new Galactico Kylian Mbappe. He alongside, Kroos, Fernandes and Dani Carvajal could win their sixth Champions League title, joining club legend Paco Gento as the most successful player in the history of the competition.

Thibaut Courtois to start Champions League final as Carlo Ancelotti lifts lid on GK issue

Spanish police said on Friday (May 31) it seized 11 tonnes of forged soccer tops to be sold in Spain in the run-up to the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in London on Saturday (June 1) and the European Championship in Germany next month.

The seized goods include tops from Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, France's Kylian Mbappe, Spain's national team, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The fake shirts were found among other forged products such as luxury watches, leather goods and electronics when agents were searching 15 heavy-duty lorries, police said in a press release.

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The investigation started last April when two tonnes of counterfeit shirts of Spanish football clubs sent from China were seized.

Police found out a big shipment was bound to Spain before the Champions League final and the Euro finals, and set up an operation with more than 20 agents.

Police estimate the whole merchandise would have a market value of more than six million euros ($6.50 million).

Spanish police said on Friday (May 31) it seized 11 tonnes of forged soccer tops to be sold in Spain in the run-up to the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in London on Saturday (June 1) and the European Championship in Germany next month.

Spanish police said on Friday (May 31) it seized 11 tonnes of forged soccer tops to be sold in Spain in the run-up to the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in London on Saturday (June 1) and the European Championship in Germany next month. The seized goods include tops from Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, France's Kylian Mbappe, Spain's national team, Real Madrid and Barcelona. The fake shirts were found among other forged products such as luxury watches, leather goods and electronics when agents were searching 15 heavy-duty lorries, police said in a press release. ALSO READ | Eng vs Pak: Babar Azam becomes second batter after Virat Kohli to complete 4k runs in men's T20Is The investigation started last April when two tonnes of counterfeit shirts of Spanish football clubs sent from China were seized. Police found out a big shipment was bound to Spain before the Champions League final and the Euro finals, and set up an operation with more than 20 agents. Police estimate the whole merchandise would have a market value of more than six million euros ($6.50 million).

Spain authorities seize 11 tonnes of fake Champions League and Euro kits

Real Madrid will be travelling to London for the Champions League final without their goalkeeper Andriy Lunin in the squad. The Ukrainian goalkeeper will be arriving in the UK alone after coming down with flu earlier this week.

Real Madrid will be travelling to London for the Champions League final without their goalkeeper Andriy Lunin in the squad. The Ukrainian goalkeeper will be arriving in the UK alone after coming down with flu earlier this week. The club staff has taken the precautionary decision to ensure that other players do not catch flu ahead of the big-ticket match. Madrid are chasing a record 15th UCL trophy against a resurgent Borussia Dortmund side. Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has a tough choice on who he starts in the big final. Lunin has been the preferred choice in the competition, having played eight matches and kept clean sheets in two of them. He was instrumental in the penalty shootout against Manchester City and showed immaculate composure to keep the defending champions at bay. "It’s really difficult. Both of them deserve to play this final. Lunin, because he did a fantastic season, and Courtois, because he is back from his injury and everyone knows the quality of Courtois," said Ancelotti. Courtois had been out of the Madrid squad after rupturing his cruciate ligament back in August 2023. While Kepa Arrizabalaga was the initial first-choice keeper, Ancelotti soon pivoted towards Lunin who proved to be more than an ideal replacement. The Belgian goalkeeper, however, is now back to full fitness and started the last five la Liga matches of the season. Also read | Kylian Mbappe to AC Milan instead of Real Madrid? Star footballer gives MAJOR hint on his future Real Madrid await Kylian Mbappe's arrival Apart from anticipation surrounding the goalkeeper's choice, Madrid fans are awaiting the announcement of Kylian Mbappe as the new club signing. Speaking to CNN, Mbappe revealed that he will make his next club choice official in the coming days. Most fans believe that the announcement will come after the UCL final, so as not to distract the players. "My next club will be official soon, it's matter of days. I can't wait for that, I'm happy. We have to wait just for some days." "I want to be happy. I will leave my country for the first time. It's going to be an amazing experience and I can't wait to be in my new club. I want to win trophies. When you speak about football, [it's about] winning trophies, being with new teammates. Now, I have my contract with PSG. Everybody knows that it's soon finishing and we're going to see what happens." (With inputs from agencies)

Real Madrid to leave star goalkeeper at home ahead of Champions League final

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has signed a new five-year contract, the Premier League club announced Monday (May 27). The Spaniard has been rewarded after guiding the Birmingham club to a fourth-placed finish and Champions League qualification last season.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has signed a new five-year contract, the Premier League club announced Monday (May 27). The Spaniard has been rewarded after guiding the Birmingham club to a fourth-placed finish and Champions League qualification last season. Emery, 52, has transformed Villa's fortunes since arriving in October 2022 with the team just three points above the relegation zone. "I am very happy to take this step (signing a new contract) and the responsibility of leading this club," Emery told Villa's website. "Since I came to Villa with (co-owner) Wes (Edens) and (chairman) Nassef (Sawiris) we found always the best environment and structure to develop a project with the highest ambition." "There's a great chemistry in Aston Villa and the element of the fans' support also makes the difference to feel like home. We are really excited to continue this journey with no limits to our dreams." Watch | All the titles won by Toni Kroos in his career × Villa chairman Sawiris added: "We are building something special here at Aston Villa with Unai at its core and we are delighted that he has signed a new deal with the club until 2029. "As we move into our historic, 150th anniversary year, there is a lot to look forward to with Unai at the helm." Emery, is a four-time Europa League winner following spells with Spanish clubs Sevilla and Villarreal. He lifted the Ligue 1 trophy at Paris Saint-Germain and also spent a year in charge of Arsenal from 2018-19. He then steered Villa, the 1982 European Cup winners, to a seventh-placed finish in the Premier League in 2023 and has now overseen their return to European club football's elite competition after an absence of more than 40 years.

Unai Emery inks new five-year contract at Aston Villa after securing UCL football

Outgoing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel has hinted at a return to the Premier League as he enters the final chapter of his stint with the German giants. Tuchel will be on the sidelines on Wednesday (May 8) evening when Bayern play Real Madrid in the Champions League second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. The former Chelsea boss will be a free agent in the summer&nbsp;with&nbsp;Bayern having already announced his departure from the club.&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel said on his potential return to Premier League: “I’d rather not answer… but it is no secret that I loved it at Chelsea, I loved it in England&nbsp;and&nbsp;I loved it in the Premier League for sure”.

“It was a very, very&nbsp;special time in England,”&nbsp;Tuchel told TNT Sports.

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Having been on the books of Chelsea and leading them to multiple Cup finals,&nbsp;he was shown the doors&nbsp;in favour of Graham Potter in September 2022. He did not stay out of his job and&nbsp;was hired&nbsp;by Bayern Munich in March 2023. However, a poor string of results and fallout with several players saw his stint being cut short but&nbsp;was&nbsp;not sacked. In February, it&nbsp;was announced&nbsp;that Tuchel would be leaving the Bavarian giants with them out of the race to win the Bundesliga&nbsp;and&nbsp;while already getting eliminated from the DFB Pokal.&nbsp;

<h2>Where next in Premier League for Tuchel?</h2>

Considering his hunger to win trophies and credibility, Tuchel will only attract interest from top clubs. As things stand, Liverpool are the only club confirmed to have a vacancy in the club’s management role. Manchester United are more likely to sack Erik ten Hag while Mauricio Pochettino and Ange Postecoglou are confident of retaining their roles.&nbsp;

Newcastle United is another club where Tuchel could attract interest, but Eddie Howe is unlikely to be sacked.&nbsp;This&nbsp;leaves limited options for Tuchel to come back into English football.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see where the German gaffer next lands, but&nbsp;is&nbsp;surely&nbsp;one who will attract a big signing fee which could&nbsp;be inflated&nbsp;if he&nbsp;ends up winning&nbsp;the Champions League with Bayern Munich.

Outgoing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel has hinted at a return to the Premier League as he enters the final chapter of his stint with the German giants. Tuchel will be on the sidelines on Wednesday (May 8) evening when Bayern play Real Madrid in the Champions League second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Outgoing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel has hinted at a return to the Premier League as he enters the final chapter of his stint with the German giants. Tuchel will be on the sidelines on Wednesday (May 8) evening when Bayern play Real Madrid in the Champions League second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. The former Chelsea boss will be a free agent in the summer with Bayern having already announced his departure from the club. Thomas Tuchel said on his potential return to Premier League: “I’d rather not answer… but it is no secret that I loved it at Chelsea, I loved it in England and I loved it in the Premier League for sure”. “It was a very, very special time in England,” Tuchel told TNT Sports. ALSO READ | Could Mikel Arteta miss Arsenal's potential title-decider against Everton? Here's how Having been on the books of Chelsea and leading them to multiple Cup finals, he was shown the doors in favour of Graham Potter in September 2022. He did not stay out of his job and was hired by Bayern Munich in March 2023. However, a poor string of results and fallout with several players saw his stint being cut short but was not sacked. In February, it was announced that Tuchel would be leaving the Bavarian giants with them out of the race to win the Bundesliga and while already getting eliminated from the DFB Pokal. Where next in Premier League for Tuchel? Considering his hunger to win trophies and credibility, Tuchel will only attract interest from top clubs. As things stand, Liverpool are the only club confirmed to have a vacancy in the club’s management role. Manchester United are more likely to sack Erik ten Hag while Mauricio Pochettino and Ange Postecoglou are confident of retaining their roles. Newcastle United is another club where Tuchel could attract interest, but Eddie Howe is unlikely to be sacked. This leaves limited options for Tuchel to come back into English football. It will be interesting to see where the German gaffer next lands, but is surely one who will attract a big signing fee which could be inflated if he ends up winning the Champions League with Bayern Munich.

Outgoing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel hints at Premier League return, could join THIS club

Real Madrid have enjoyed&nbsp;yet&nbsp;another stellar season in European football as the Spanish giants are on course for yet another league and Champions League double. Last Saturday was a significant step towards the landmark after the Los Blancos secured their 36th La Liga title with a 3-0 win over Cadiz. However, the club has now confirmed that they won’t be lifting the La Liga title at the end of their next match against Granada in a fitting display of sportsmanship.&nbsp;

<h2>Real Madrid won’t lift La Liga title at&nbsp;Granada</h2>

While much of the eyes are on the Wednesday (May 8) evening fixture against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, the Los Blancos travel to Granada on Saturday for their latest La Liga clash. Having won La Liga after Girona’s win over Barcelona, Saturday will be the first time Real will come out on the field as official champions.&nbsp;This&nbsp;also presents them the opportunity to lift the La Liga title in the backyard of Granada&nbsp;who&nbsp;are struggling with relegation.&nbsp;

Unlike English football, where the league championship&nbsp;is presented&nbsp;in the final home game of the season, in&nbsp;Spain&nbsp;the trophy is presented in the club’s first official game after being crowned champions.&nbsp;

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However, with Granada likely to get relegated if they lose to Real, the record Spanish champions have decided against lifting the trophy&nbsp;and will&nbsp;instead lift it in a private ceremony.&nbsp;This&nbsp;comes after the Real board and players wanted to respect the emotions of Granada fans and the club&nbsp;as a whole&nbsp;who&nbsp;could have an emotional outing on Saturday.&nbsp;

The decision has been greeted with open arms by the Spanish football fraternity&nbsp;with&nbsp;plenty of respect shown towards Real Madrid for their gesture.&nbsp;

On the horizon, Carlo Ancelotti and Co will now look to move their attentions to the Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;where they will face Bayern in the second leg. The tie&nbsp;is nicely poised&nbsp;at 2-2 with the winner of the second league heading into the final of the Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp; where&nbsp;they will face Borussia Dortmund in the final.&nbsp;

Real Madrid have enjoyed yet another stellar season in European football as the Spanish giants are on course for yet another league and Champions League double. Last Saturday was a significant step towards the landmark after the Los Blancos secured their 36th La Liga title with a 3-0 win over Cadiz.

Real Madrid have enjoyed yet another stellar season in European football as the Spanish giants are on course for yet another league and Champions League double. Last Saturday was a significant step towards the landmark after the Los Blancos secured their 36th La Liga title with a 3-0 win over Cadiz. However, the club has now confirmed that they won’t be lifting the La Liga title at the end of their next match against Granada in a fitting display of sportsmanship. Real Madrid won’t lift La Liga title at Granada While much of the eyes are on the Wednesday (May 8) evening fixture against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, the Los Blancos travel to Granada on Saturday for their latest La Liga clash. Having won La Liga after Girona’s win over Barcelona, Saturday will be the first time Real will come out on the field as official champions. This also presents them the opportunity to lift the La Liga title in the backyard of Granada who are struggling with relegation. Unlike English football, where the league championship is presented in the final home game of the season, in Spain the trophy is presented in the club’s first official game after being crowned champions. ALSO READ | Could Mikel Arteta miss Arsenal's potential title-decider against Everton? Here's how However, with Granada likely to get relegated if they lose to Real, the record Spanish champions have decided against lifting the trophy and will instead lift it in a private ceremony. This comes after the Real board and players wanted to respect the emotions of Granada fans and the club as a whole who could have an emotional outing on Saturday. The decision has been greeted with open arms by the Spanish football fraternity with plenty of respect shown towards Real Madrid for their gesture. On the horizon, Carlo Ancelotti and Co will now look to move their attentions to the Champions League where they will face Bayern in the second leg. The tie is nicely poised at 2-2 with the winner of the second league heading into the final of the Champions League where they will face Borussia Dortmund in the final.

Here is why Real Madrid won’t lift La Liga trophy after Granada match on weekend

It was a sorrowful exit in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday (May 7) evening as they lost 2-0 on aggregate to Borussia Dortmund. The result&nbsp;brought to an end&nbsp;Kylian&nbsp;Mbappe’s&nbsp;dream of winning the Champions League with PSG as they exited at the last four stage. After the defeat, Mbappe opened up on the Champions League exit and took the blame. According to Mabppe, he tried his best to help his side win the tie&nbsp;but it was&nbsp;not enough.&nbsp;

<h2>Mbappe takes the&nbsp;blame</h2>

"I&nbsp;tried to help my team as best as I could&nbsp;but&nbsp;I&nbsp;didn't&nbsp;do enough,"&nbsp;Mbappé said after the game at Parc des Princes.&nbsp;"When we talk about being efficient in the boxes, I think&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;the one targeted.&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;the guy who should score goals and be decisive. When things are good, I take all the limelight&nbsp;and&nbsp;when they are not, you have to take the shadow.&nbsp;That's&nbsp;not a problem.

"The first one who should have scored tonight was me.&nbsp;That's&nbsp;life&nbsp;and&nbsp;we&nbsp;have to&nbsp;move on, me and the team."

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Needing to win the match in Paris, Mbappe and Co hit the frame of the goal on six occasions over&nbsp;180 minutes.&nbsp;Interestingly, PSG hit the post&nbsp;on four occasions&nbsp;in the second leg&nbsp;which&nbsp;left them frustrated&nbsp;throughout the evening.&nbsp;Mat&nbsp;Hummels’&nbsp;goal in the 50th minute was the final nail in the coffin for the hosts. His goal saw Borussia Dortmund win 1-0 on the night and 2-0 overall&nbsp;and&nbsp;will now play in their third Champions League final.&nbsp;

This&nbsp;will be&nbsp;Dormtund’s&nbsp;second Champions League final at the Wembley Stadium&nbsp;having&nbsp;also played in the 2013 final. Dortmund were beaten 2-1 in the final in 2013 when they lost to Bayern Munich after a late cameo from Arjen Robben.

Dortmund will now face either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the final as they await the result of the second leg. Bayern and Real drew 2-2 last week and will play the second leg in Madrid on Wednesday.&nbsp;

It was a sorrowful exit in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday (May 7) evening as they lost 2-0 on aggregate to Borussia Dortmund. The result brought to an end Kylian Mbappe’s dream of winning the Champions League with PSG as they exited at the last four stage.

It was a sorrowful exit in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday (May 7) evening as they lost 2-0 on aggregate to Borussia Dortmund. The result brought to an end Kylian Mbappe’s dream of winning the Champions League with PSG as they exited at the last four stage. After the defeat, Mbappe opened up on the Champions League exit and took the blame. According to Mabppe, he tried his best to help his side win the tie but it was not enough. Mbappe takes the blame "I tried to help my team as best as I could but I didn't do enough," Mbappé said after the game at Parc des Princes. "When we talk about being efficient in the boxes, I think I'm the one targeted. I'm the guy who should score goals and be decisive. When things are good, I take all the limelight and when they are not, you have to take the shadow. That's not a problem. "The first one who should have scored tonight was me. That's life and we have to move on, me and the team." ALSO READ | UCL: Mats Hummels on target as composed Borussia Dortmund knock PSG out to reach final Needing to win the match in Paris, Mbappe and Co hit the frame of the goal on six occasions over 180 minutes. Interestingly, PSG hit the post on four occasions in the second leg which left them frustrated throughout the evening. Mat Hummels’ goal in the 50th minute was the final nail in the coffin for the hosts. His goal saw Borussia Dortmund win 1-0 on the night and 2-0 overall and will now play in their third Champions League final. This will be Dormtund’s second Champions League final at the Wembley Stadium having also played in the 2013 final. Dortmund were beaten 2-1 in the final in 2013 when they lost to Bayern Munich after a late cameo from Arjen Robben. Dortmund will now face either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the final as they await the result of the second leg. Bayern and Real drew 2-2 last week and will play the second leg in Madrid on Wednesday.

Champions League: Helpless Kylian Mbappe opens up on PSG exit, says 'I tried to help my team'

Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe said Sunday that his team will come back from their 1-0 defeat in the Champions League semi-final first leg to Borussia Dortmund and qualify for the final.

"We're confident that we'll come back from that score and reach the final," Mbappe said to reporters in Paris during an event with 2,000 children organised by his "Inspired by KM" association.

PSG will host Dortmund in the tie's second leg on Tuesday, with Niclas Fuellkrug's goal in Germany last week meaning Mbappe and his team need to win in order to have a chance of reaching the final at Wembley on June 1.

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"There's a lot of pressure, which is normal because there's a place in the Champions League final at stake, which is very important. Especially when you consider the club's record in the competition," said 25-year-old Mbappe.

"We're aware of the pressure, but the group is extremely calm. We're confident that we'll come back from that score and reach the final," he said, adding that "taking part" in this event with the children helped him to "prepare".&nbsp;

"I've often had the same warning from the children. I've heard a lot of 'You've got to win!' And they're right, we have to win."

"In any case, a day like this is good for the development of the man I am. And I'm sure I'll arrive at the match in a good mood, ready to defend my team's colours and help us qualify for the final."

It will in all likelihood be Mbappe's last chance to win European football's biggest prize with hometown side PSG after the France captain told the club he would be leaving this summer at the end of his contract.

The 2018 World Cup winner has not yet announced where he will play his football next season, but Spanish giants Real Madrid are the favourites to secure Mbappe's signature.

Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe said Sunday that his team will come back from their 1-0 defeat in the Champions League semi-final first leg to Borussia Dortmund and qualify for the final.

Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe said Sunday that his team will come back from their 1-0 defeat in the Champions League semi-final first leg to Borussia Dortmund and qualify for the final. "We're confident that we'll come back from that score and reach the final," Mbappe said to reporters in Paris during an event with 2,000 children organised by his "Inspired by KM" association. PSG will host Dortmund in the tie's second leg on Tuesday, with Niclas Fuellkrug's goal in Germany last week meaning Mbappe and his team need to win in order to have a chance of reaching the final at Wembley on June 1. Also Read: Premier League: 'Stop after I leave...,' Jurgen Klopp on Liverpool's future after his upcoming departure "There's a lot of pressure, which is normal because there's a place in the Champions League final at stake, which is very important. Especially when you consider the club's record in the competition," said 25-year-old Mbappe. "We're aware of the pressure, but the group is extremely calm. We're confident that we'll come back from that score and reach the final," he said, adding that "taking part" in this event with the children helped him to "prepare". "I've often had the same warning from the children. I've heard a lot of 'You've got to win!' And they're right, we have to win." "In any case, a day like this is good for the development of the man I am. And I'm sure I'll arrive at the match in a good mood, ready to defend my team's colours and help us qualify for the final." It will in all likelihood be Mbappe's last chance to win European football's biggest prize with hometown side PSG after the France captain told the club he would be leaving this summer at the end of his contract. The 2018 World Cup winner has not yet announced where he will play his football next season, but Spanish giants Real Madrid are the favourites to secure Mbappe's signature.

Kylian Mbappe claims PSG will 'reach Champions League final' despite semifinal first-leg loss

It will be the end of an era for Marco Reus at Borussia Dortmund as he bids farewell to the club after the 2023-24 season.&nbsp; The announcement was made official on Friday (May 3)&nbsp;with&nbsp;Reus set to depart after a potential Champions League&nbsp;final,&nbsp;if Dortmund beat Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinal. Having signed from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2012, Reus served the club for 12&nbsp;years&nbsp;during which he led the club to several heights&nbsp;including&nbsp;winning domestic honours.

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One of one. 
 
Marco Reus and Borussia Dortmund have reached a mutual understanding that his current contract will not be extended, as both parties will part ways this summer. 
 
Full focus will persist on the remaining league fixtures, alongside our unwavering commitment to… <a href="https://t.co/uJct037moh">pic.twitter.com/uJct037moh</a>
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<h2>Reus bids farewell</h2>

"I&nbsp;am incredibly grateful and proud for this&nbsp;special&nbsp;time at my club Borussia Dortmund. I spent more than half of my life in this club and enjoyed every day, although&nbsp;of&nbsp;course&nbsp;there were also difficult moments.&nbsp;

“I&nbsp;already know that it will be difficult for me to say goodbye at the end of the season. And yet&nbsp;I'm&nbsp;glad&nbsp;that&nbsp;there's&nbsp;clarity now&nbsp;and&nbsp;we can concentrate fully on the&nbsp;important&nbsp;final games that are still outstanding.&nbsp;

“We have a big goal in mind&nbsp;and&nbsp;we all&nbsp;want to achieve it together. For&nbsp;this&nbsp;we need each and every one of our incredible fans, whom I would like&nbsp;to expressly thank for their incredible support over the years,”&nbsp;said Reus in a video released on the&nbsp;club’s&nbsp;website.&nbsp;

Reus started his youth career with Dortmund before moving to Rot Weiss Ahlen in 2006. He would spend three years with the side before moving to Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2009.&nbsp;It was at Mönchengladbach where&nbsp;he would get his Bundesliga debut and hit the ground running with eight goals.&nbsp;

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Despite impressing in the 2009-10 season, Reus&nbsp;was unable to&nbsp;earn a call-up to the Germany national side for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;However, it was in 2011 that he was handed his debut by then-Germany manager Joachim Low.&nbsp;He would feature for the side in the Euro 2012 and FIFA World Cup 2018&nbsp;having&nbsp;missed&nbsp;Germany’s&nbsp;2014 World Cup winning campaign with a groin issue. He&nbsp;was also injured&nbsp;during the Euro 2016 in France.&nbsp;

During his time at Dortmund&nbsp;Reus&nbsp;won DFB Pokal on two occasions in 2017 and 2021 and finished runners-up in the Bundesliga on multiple occasions&nbsp;including&nbsp;the 2022-23&nbsp;season&nbsp;where his side lost the title on the final day despite having the lead heading into the final day.&nbsp;He also lost the 2013 Champions League final&nbsp;with Dortmund but could&nbsp;make&nbsp;amend this year as Dortmund are a draw away from the final in&nbsp;London’s&nbsp;Wembley Stadium.&nbsp;

It will be the end of an era for Marco Reus at Borussia Dortmund as he bids farewell to the club after the 2023-24 season. The announcement was made official on Friday (May 3) with Reus set to depart after a potential Champions League final, if Dortmund beat Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinal.

It will be the end of an era for Marco Reus at Borussia Dortmund as he bids farewell to the club after the 2023-24 season. The announcement was made official on Friday (May 3) with Reus set to depart after a potential Champions League final, if Dortmund beat Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinal. Having signed from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2012, Reus served the club for 12 years during which he led the club to several heights including winning domestic honours. One of one. Marco Reus and Borussia Dortmund have reached a mutual understanding that his current contract will not be extended, as both parties will part ways this summer. Full focus will persist on the remaining league fixtures, alongside our unwavering commitment to… pic.twitter.com/uJct037moh — Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) May 3, 2024 × Reus bids farewell "I am incredibly grateful and proud for this special time at my club Borussia Dortmund. I spent more than half of my life in this club and enjoyed every day, although of course there were also difficult moments. “I already know that it will be difficult for me to say goodbye at the end of the season. And yet I'm glad that there's clarity now and we can concentrate fully on the important final games that are still outstanding. “We have a big goal in mind and we all want to achieve it together. For this we need each and every one of our incredible fans, whom I would like to expressly thank for their incredible support over the years,” said Reus in a video released on the club’s website. Reus started his youth career with Dortmund before moving to Rot Weiss Ahlen in 2006. He would spend three years with the side before moving to Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2009. It was at Mönchengladbach where he would get his Bundesliga debut and hit the ground running with eight goals. ALSO READ | 'I'm not sure...': Jurgen Klopp provides update on his spat with Liverpool forward Mo Salah Despite impressing in the 2009-10 season, Reus was unable to earn a call-up to the Germany national side for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. However, it was in 2011 that he was handed his debut by then-Germany manager Joachim Low. He would feature for the side in the Euro 2012 and FIFA World Cup 2018 having missed Germany’s 2014 World Cup winning campaign with a groin issue. He was also injured during the Euro 2016 in France. During his time at Dortmund Reus won DFB Pokal on two occasions in 2017 and 2021 and finished runners-up in the Bundesliga on multiple occasions including the 2022-23 season where his side lost the title on the final day despite having the lead heading into the final day. He also lost the 2013 Champions League final with Dortmund but could make amend this year as Dortmund are a draw away from the final in London’s Wembley Stadium.

Marco Reus to bid farewell to Borussia Dortmund after 2023-24 season; end 12-year stay with club

In the first semifinal of the UEFA Champions League 2023-24&nbsp;between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, in Germany, the hosts had a massive opportunity to end with a 3-1 scoreline, after a lead of 2-1, but settled for a 2-2 draw versus the Spainish giants. After the match, Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel has underlined the importance of 'belief' in the camp ahead of the second semifinal in Madrid, on May 9.&nbsp;

Following the first leg, Tuchel said, "It's important we believe." He stated, "Of course it's possible [to win in Madrid]. It's still a 50-50 match and I think we will be able to great chances there. The goal is absolutely clear, we need to win. We need to be brave and full of confidence and very clinical in our game."

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<h2>'Real Madrid have done it before, we are not first team to which it happens'</h2>

Bayern were 2-1 up with quick goals after half-time, but Tuchel was left frustrated after his team missed a lot of chances to end with a favourable result. He opined, "The result is the result, it doesn't make any sense to discuss to spend much time about it. Real Madrid have done it before, scoring two goals out of two chances. We are not first team to which it happens. They are clinical and have the patience to wait for it. Real Madrid does this to teams so we should not be disappointed for too long."

He added, "We could have scored a third but we weren't clinical enough. We had enough chances to score the third and committed some errors. The situation is clear, we go there and the winner takes it all."

On the other hand, Madrid boss Carlo&nbsp;Ancelotti claimed his team wasn't at their usual best despite Madrid, the title-contenders, preventing a win for the opposition (thanks to Vinícius Júnior twin strikes in the contest).&nbsp;

The second leg is interestingly poised with the winner to take it all. Bayern will bank on in-form Harry Kane, who also scored in the first semifinal, to continue his goal-scoring spree but beating Madrid at home will be a herculean task for the German club.

In the first semifinal of the UEFA Champions League 2023-24 between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, in Germany, the hosts had a massive opportunity to end with a 3-1 scoreline, after a lead of 2-1, but settled for a 2-2 draw versus the Spainish giants.

In the first semifinal of the UEFA Champions League 2023-24 between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, in Germany, the hosts had a massive opportunity to end with a 3-1 scoreline, after a lead of 2-1, but settled for a 2-2 draw versus the Spainish giants. After the match, Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel has underlined the importance of 'belief' in the camp ahead of the second semifinal in Madrid, on May 9. Following the first leg, Tuchel said, "It's important we believe." He stated, "Of course it's possible [to win in Madrid]. It's still a 50-50 match and I think we will be able to great chances there. The goal is absolutely clear, we need to win. We need to be brave and full of confidence and very clinical in our game." Also read: Man United not expecting offers for Rashford, believe there is no market for striker this summer: Report 'Real Madrid have done it before, we are not first team to which it happens' Bayern were 2-1 up with quick goals after half-time, but Tuchel was left frustrated after his team missed a lot of chances to end with a favourable result. He opined, "The result is the result, it doesn't make any sense to discuss to spend much time about it. Real Madrid have done it before, scoring two goals out of two chances. We are not first team to which it happens. They are clinical and have the patience to wait for it. Real Madrid does this to teams so we should not be disappointed for too long." He added, "We could have scored a third but we weren't clinical enough. We had enough chances to score the third and committed some errors. The situation is clear, we go there and the winner takes it all." On the other hand, Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti claimed his team wasn't at their usual best despite Madrid, the title-contenders, preventing a win for the opposition (thanks to Vinícius Júnior twin strikes in the contest). The second leg is interestingly poised with the winner to take it all. Bayern will bank on in-form Harry Kane, who also scored in the first semifinal, to continue his goal-scoring spree but beating Madrid at home will be a herculean task for the German club.

UCL: Important we believe, says Tuchel after Bayern-Madrid first semifinal ends in 2-2 stalemate

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