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Trump says ‘It’s Too Bad’ he can’t run for a 3rd term

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Trump says ‘It’s Too Bad’ he can’t run for a 3rd term

President Donald Trump on Wednesday acknowledged that he cannot seek a third term in office under the U.S. Constitution, calling it “too bad” while hinting at his desire to continue serving beyond his current tenure.

“If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One as he traveled from Japan to South Korea. “I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad.”

According to the Associated Press, the president’s remarks came a day after House Speaker Mike Johnson reiterated that a third Trump term would be constitutionally impossible. “I don’t see the path for that,” Johnson said at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday. The Louisiana Republican, a staunch Trump ally, said he and the president have spoken about the issue, noting that Trump “understands the situation” outlined in the 22nd Amendment, which restricts any president to two elected terms.

“The Constitution is clear,” Johnson said. “You’d need a whole new amendment to change that, and that’s a long, complicated process involving Congress and the states. It could take decades.”

Still, Johnson expressed confidence in Trump’s political momentum. “We’re not taking our foot off the gas,” he said. “We’re going to deliver for the American people. He’s got four strong years ahead.”

Trump, however, left room for interpretation, as he often has when discussing his political future. “Based on what I read, I guess I’m not allowed to run,” he said. “So we’ll see what happens.”

The president has repeatedly flirted with the idea of serving beyond two terms, sometimes as a joke and other times as a test of political boundaries. “Trump 2028” hats have been spotted around the White House as souvenirs, and allies such as former campaign manager and podcaster Stephen Bannon have publicly speculated about a possible third Trump term.

During a flight to Japan earlier in the week, Trump told reporters, “I would love to do it,” referring to another presidential run. He added that the Republican Party has “great options” for the next election, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance.

“All I can tell you is we have a great group of people,” Trump said.

The AP hinted that when pressed on whether he would consider running as vice president—a potential legal loophole some have floated—Trump dismissed the idea as “too cute.” “You’d be allowed to do that, but I wouldn’t do that,” he said.

Trump’s remarks come as he continues to test the limits of executive authority, deploying National Guard troops to cities against governors’ wishes, using private donations to fund military operations and White House renovations, and exercising sweeping discretion in federal spending decisions amid a partial government shutdown.

Speaker Johnson, who rose to prominence with Trump’s endorsement, downplayed critics who warn of the president’s growing power. “He enjoys trolling the Democrats,” Johnson said. “Their hair’s on fire, and he just has a good time with it.”

While the Constitution’s 22nd Amendment remains firm, Trump’s comments reinforce his continued influence over the Republican Party — and his enduring appetite for power.

Title drought continues: Cristiano Ronaldo knocked out of the King’s Cup

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Title drought continues: Cristiano Ronaldo knocked out of the King’s Cup

Indiana, PA (BN24) — Cristiano Ronaldo’s hunt for a major trophy in Saudi Arabia suffered another setback as Al-Nassr were eliminated from the King’s Cup following a 2-1 defeat to Al-Ittihad — with his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema among the scorers.

The loss marks the tenth time since joining Al-Nassr that Ronaldo has missed out on silverware, prolonging his quest for a first official title in Saudi Arabia. While the Portuguese star lifted the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023, that tournament is not officially recognized by FIFA.

Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr in January 2023 in a landmark move that shook the football world, once again found himself on the wrong side of a high-stakes encounter. The King’s Cup — Saudi Arabia’s oldest knockout competition — offered a promising chance for redemption, but Al-Ittihad’s resilience proved decisive.

Benzema, facing Ronaldo for the first time since their Real Madrid days, opened the scoring in the 15th minute, slotting home a low cross from Moussa Diaby to give the reigning Saudi Pro League champions an early lead. Al-Nassr hit back when Ronaldo turned provider, assisting Angelo’s equalizer midway through the first half. Yet Al-Ittihad restored their advantage just before halftime when Houssem Aouar capitalized on a defensive lapse to make it 2-1.

The second half unfolded in dramatic fashion. Al-Ittihad defender Ahmed Al Julaydan was sent off early after a reckless challenge, leaving the hosts with ten men for nearly 40 minutes. But despite the numerical advantage, Al-Nassr failed to break through, as Al-Ittihad’s back line, marshaled by goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe, repelled wave after wave of attacks.

Ronaldo had two golden chances to score — a curling free-kick that sailed just wide and a close-range effort that struck the post — but the equalizer never came. As the final whistle blew, frustration was written across the 39-year-old forward’s face.

The defeat extends Al-Nassr’s long-running drought in the King’s Cup — the club has not lifted the prestigious trophy since 1990. Despite the club’s heavy investment in world-class talent, including Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Aymeric Laporte, their quest for domestic silverware continues to fall short.

Al-Nassr remain undefeated in the Saudi Pro League after six matchdays and currently lead the table, but the latest cup exit underscores a growing narrative around Ronaldo’s Saudi tenure — brilliance on the pitch overshadowed by a lack of trophies.

“This one hurts,” said an Al-Nassr insider after the match. “The team had the advantage, but we couldn’t turn dominance into goals. Ronaldo gave everything, but football can be cruel.”

For now, all eyes turn to the league, where Ronaldo will aim to finally end his Saudi title drought — one that now stretches across ten tournaments and counting.

Russian forces gain foothold in strategic Ukrainian town of Pokrovsk

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Russian forces gain foothold in strategic Ukrainian town of Pokrovsk

Russian forces have gained a foothold in the key eastern Ukrainian town of Pokrovsk after intensifying assaults in the region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday, describing the situation as “difficult” but insisting that Russia has not achieved its full objectives.

Zelensky said Russian troops outnumber Ukrainian forces eight to one in the area, as Moscow pushes to seize one of the most strategic hubs in the Donetsk region. “They have not achieved the planned result,” he said, but confirmed that drone surveillance showed about 200 Russian soldiers operating within Pokrovsk’s limits.

Pokrovsk, a vital logistics and transport hub, has been under Russian assault for nearly two years. Its capture would allow Moscow to cut off Ukrainian supply routes to the eastern front and move closer to controlling the entirety of Donetsk. It would also bring the heavily fortified “fortress belt” cities — Kramatorsk, Slovyansk, Kostyantynivka and Druzhkivka — within easier striking distance of Russian forces.

The Russian Defence Ministry said its troops had encircled Ukrainian defenders near the town’s main railway station and cleared the Troyanda district of resistance. Zelensky, however, rejected claims by Russia’s Chief of General Staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, that Ukrainian troops had been completely surrounded.

“There is fierce, widespread fighting and sabotage groups have entered the town,” Zelensky said, while Ukrainian officials confirmed that heavy clashes were ongoing in urban areas. Capt. Hryhoriy Shapoval, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Eastern Operational Group, reported that 79 Russian attacks near Pokrovsk had been repelled since Monday — nearly one-third of all 218 recorded assaults along the front line.

Shapoval said Moscow had concentrated large numbers of troops and armored vehicles in the area, making the defense effort increasingly difficult. “They are using armor to shield their infantry. It’s hard to stop them,” he said, adding that fog and rain have limited Ukrainian drone visibility, reducing their ability to target Russian advances.

A Ukrainian soldier from the 155th Brigade, Artem Pribylnov, told local media that while Pokrovsk was not yet encircled, Russia’s use of drones made movement extremely risky. “Perhaps that’s why Russians claim they’ve encircled Pokrovsk even if there is no physical encirclement,” he suggested.

Street battles have been reported in recent days, with both sides relying heavily on drone warfare. Outside urban centers, drones are striking deep behind enemy lines, reflecting how technology continues to reshape the battlefield.

Russia’s full-scale invasion, now nearing its fifth year, has left Moscow in control of roughly 20 percent of Ukrainian territory. With manpower and resources dwindling, Zelensky has renewed his appeal for European financial support, saying Ukraine’s defense effort could collapse within “two or three years” without sustained aid.

At an EU summit last week, European leaders failed to approve a proposal to redirect €140 billion in frozen Russian assets to Ukraine after Belgium blocked the measure. The issue will be revisited in December. Zelensky urged Europe to act decisively, saying, “We are not going to fight for decades, but you must show that you can provide stable financial support.”

The Ukrainian president also expressed hope that an upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping could reduce Beijing’s support for Moscow. Trump recently imposed sanctions on Russian oil giants Lukoil and Rosneft, calling on Turkey and China to halt purchases of Russian oil. “This may be one of President Trump’s strong moves,” Zelensky said, “especially if China is ready to reduce imports from Russia.”

A bbc story

Jude Bellingham faces possible ban after repeating x-rated gesture following El Clasico win

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Jude Bellingham faces possible ban after repeating x-rated gesture following El Clasico win

MADRID(BN24) — Jude Bellingham could face disciplinary action after appearing to repeat the same X-rated gesture that previously earned him a UEFA fine and suspended ban, following Real Madrid’s heated 2-1 victory over Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clásico.

The 22-year-old England international, who played a decisive role in the win, assisted Kylian Mbappé’s opening goal before restoring Madrid’s lead after Fermin López equalized for the visitors. But Bellingham’s post-match celebrations may once again attract controversy.

As Real Madrid’s players gathered on the pitch after the final whistle, Bellingham was seen gesturing toward his crotch and sticking out his tongue a repeat of the motion that landed him in trouble during Euro 2024.

Last year, the midfielder was fined £25,400 and handed a suspended one-match ban by UEFA for making the same gesture during England’s 2-1 win over Slovakia in the tournament’s round of 16. At the time, Bellingham defended his action as “an inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game,” insisting it was not directed at opposing players or fans.

The previous punishment expired this summer, meaning UEFA no longer holds jurisdiction over domestic competitions. However, it remains unclear whether the Spanish Football Federation or LaLiga will take independent disciplinary action against the Real Madrid star.

The incident followed an intense conclusion to El Clásico, which erupted into chaos in stoppage time. Barcelona’s Pedri was sent off after a reckless challenge on Aurelien Tchouameni, triggering a heated touchline confrontation between players and coaching staff from both sides.

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso was seen restraining his players, while defender Dani Carvajal confronted Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal over remarks the 18-year-old had made ahead of the match, in which he accused Madrid of being a team that “robs, complains, and does things.”

Tensions flared further when Yamal and Carvajal exchanged words before being separated by Eduardo Camavinga. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and winger Vinícius Júnior were also involved as players from both teams jostled after the final whistle.

Security personnel eventually escorted Yamal off the pitch as Real celebrated a victory that extended their lead to five points at the top of LaLiga.

After the match, Bellingham appeared to reference Yamal’s pregame comments on social media, posting a photo of himself with the caption: “Talk is cheap. HALA MADRID ALWAYS!!!”

The Spanish league and federation have yet to issue statements on whether disciplinary proceedings will be opened. The gesture, known as “corte de mangas” in Spain, is considered offensive but has not always been punished. In 2019, former Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale avoided a sanction for a similar act aimed at Atlético Madrid fans.

If found guilty of misconduct, Bellingham could face a fine or short suspension under LaLiga’s code of conduct, depending on whether the gesture is deemed offensive or unsportsmanlike.

US revokes Wole Soyinka’s visa; Nobel laureate expresses surprise

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US revokes Wole Soyinka’s visa; Nobel laureate expresses surprise

LAGOS, Nigeria (BN24) — Nigerian Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka announced Tuesday that the United States has revoked his entry visa, a move he described as unexpected and perplexing. The decision, which effectively bars the literary icon from entering the country, was communicated to him in an official letter from the U.S. Consulate in Lagos dated October 23, 2025.

Speaking at a press conference held at Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, on Lagos Island, Soyinka told reporters he was unaware of any actions that might have led to the revocation. “It is necessary for me to hold this conference so that people in the United States who are expecting me for this event or that event do not waste their time,” he said. “I have no visa; I am banned, obviously, from the United States. And if you want to see me, you know where to find me.”

According to Soyinka, the notification from the Non-Immigrant Visa (NIV) Section of the U.S. Consulate General read in part: “This letter serves as official notification by the United States Consulate General in Lagos that the nonimmigrant visa listed below has been revoked pursuant to the authority contained in U.S. Department of State regulations.”

The 89-year-old playwright, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, said he remains in the dark about the reasons behind the decision. “I’m still looking into my past history… I don’t have any past criminal record or even a felony or misdemeanor to qualify for the revocation,” Soyinka said. “I’ve started looking back—have I ever misbehaved toward the United States of America? Do I have a history? Have I been convicted? Have I gone against the law anywhere?”

The revocation follows recent measures by the U.S. government to tighten immigration and visa policies. Soyinka, who has traveled frequently to the U.S. for lectures and academic events, said the development took him by surprise.

In September, Soyinka told PM News that he had declined an invitation from the U.S. Consulate in Nigeria to attend a visa re-interview scheduled for September 11, saying he found the request suspicious at the time. “At first, I thought it was fake,” Soyinka said, recounting that he initially suspected the letter might be part of an online scam or even generated by artificial intelligence. “By the time I came to terms with the fact that the letter was genuine, my mind went to my relationship with individual ambassadors, Consuls General, and Cultural Attachés. As you know, it has always been a courteous relationship.”

Soyinka’s B1/B2 visa — a non-immigrant visa for temporary travel to the United States for business or tourism — was reportedly revoked without prior notice. He emphasized that the situation was not personal but symbolized a broader issue in U.S. diplomatic engagement. “For me, this is not a personal issue,” he said. “I have no idea what prompted it, but I will continue to seek clarification through the proper channels.”

The U.S. Consulate in Lagos has not commented publicly on the revocation or provided any further explanation as of Tuesday evening.

U.S. strikes on 4 alleged drug-running boats in Eastern Pacific kill 14

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U.S. strikes on 4 alleged drug-running boats in Eastern Pacific kill 14

The U.S. military launched a series of deadly airstrikes on four boats in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Monday, killing 14 people and leaving one survivor, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Tuesday. The strikes, the deadliest in a single day since President Donald Trump’s administration began its maritime campaign against drug trafficking, mark a sharp escalation in a nearly two-month effort that has roiled regional relations and fueled speculation about broader U.S. objectives in South America.

According to Pentagon officials, the strikes targeted vessels believed to be carrying narcotics off the coast of Colombia. However, the exact location remains unclear, as Mexico’s navy reported conducting a search roughly 400 miles southwest of Acapulco—hundreds of miles from Colombia—suggesting at least one of the strikes may have occurred closer to Mexican waters.

A Pentagon official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the U.S. military observed one survivor clinging to wreckage following the attacks and relayed the person’s coordinates to the U.S. Coast Guard and a nearby Mexican military aircraft. Defense Secretary Hegseth later said Mexican authorities had taken responsibility for coordinating the rescue but did not confirm whether the survivor had been found or would remain in Mexican custody.

Mexico condemned the strikes, with President Claudia Sheinbaum announcing that she had instructed her foreign affairs secretary and navy to meet with the U.S. ambassador to “discuss this unacceptable incident.” During her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum said, “We do not agree with these attacks. We want all international treaties to be respected.”

The strikes have also deepened tensions with Colombia, a key U.S. ally in anti-narcotics operations. Last week, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, his family, and a member of his government, alleging involvement in the international drug trade — accusations Petro strongly denies.

Hegseth released footage of the latest attacks showing two boats moving along known narco-trafficking routes before erupting into flames. A third clip shows a pair of stationary vessels exploding in what appears to be a precision strike. “The four vessels were known by our intelligence apparatus, transiting along established narco-trafficking routes and carrying narcotics,” Hegseth said in his statement.

The Pentagon has not provided public evidence linking the targeted boats to drug cartels or identifying those killed. Still, the U.S. has claimed that several previous strikes targeted operations connected to the Tren de Aragua gang, a Venezuelan criminal network designated as a foreign terrorist organization by Washington.

The latest operation raises the total death toll from 13 disclosed strikes to at least 57 people. The Trump administration insists the campaign is part of an expanding “armed conflict” against drug cartels that it claims have “killed more Americans than Al-Qaeda.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the strikes, arguing that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government “allows and participates in the shipment of narcotics.” Maduro, however, accused Washington of “fabricating a war” to justify aggression and warned that the military buildup in the region — which now includes an aircraft carrier, eight warships, and thousands of troops — threatens Venezuela’s sovereignty.

President Donald Trump has maintained that he possesses full legal authority to carry out the attacks, citing the same provisions used by President George W. Bush’s administration in the post-9/11 war on terror. “Cartels will be treated the same way as terrorists,” Hegseth said, drawing a direct parallel between the current counterdrug operations and America’s long-standing campaign against extremist networks.

The strikes represent a significant expansion of U.S. military engagement in Latin American waters, underscoring the administration’s willingness to use force far beyond traditional drug interdiction tactics — a move that has sparked both regional outrage and growing international scrutiny.

Associated Press story

FIFA opens second phase of 2026 World Cup ticket sales with exclusive access for fans in U.S., Canada, and Mexico

Simeon Bateren
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FIFA opens second phase of 2026 World Cup ticket sales with exclusive access for fans in U.S., Canada, and Mexico

ZURICH (BN24)— FIFA on Monday launched the second phase of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup, opening a new draw that makes another one million tickets available for the biggest tournament in football history.

The new ticketing window includes an exclusive domestic time slot for residents of the three host nations, the United States, Canada, and Mexico, giving local fans early access to purchase single-match tickets for games played in their home countries.

The draw, which runs until 11 a.m. ET on Friday marks the start of the latest round of ticket distribution. All fans worldwide are eligible to apply, but residents of the host countries whose entries are selected will be able to buy tickets beginning November 12, with exclusive purchase windows issued through November 15. FIFA said successful applicants will receive notice at least 48 hours before their slot opens.

“This second phase, with its host country domestic exclusivity time slot, will allow us to say ‘thank you’ to local fans, while ensuring global opportunity as well,” said Heimo Schirgi, FIFA’s chief operating officer for the 2026 World Cup. “We have already seen massive interest from around the world for this tournament, particularly within the host nations.”

According to FIFA, residents of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico led global ticket purchases during the first sales phase, followed by fans from England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and France. The organization said demand remains exceptionally high ahead of what will be the largest World Cup ever, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 North American venues.

Once the domestic exclusivity window closes, additional fans will be able to secure purchasing slots beginning November 17. Further sales phases are expected in the coming months as FIFA continues to release the remaining inventory.

FIFA announced earlier in October that more than 1 million tickets have already been sold, with buyers from 212 countries and territories. So far, 28 of the 48 teams set to participate have secured qualification.

Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, is presented with a novelty World Cup ticket by FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Friday, Oct. 10, 2025. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP)

In total, the 2026 World Cup will feature roughly 7.1 million available seats, based on listed stadium capacities across North America. However, FIFA has not disclosed how many of those tickets will be publicly available for sale.

Pricing has emerged as a major talking point among fans. Entry-level tickets start at $60 for at least 40 matches, while most games are set at higher prices. The U.S. opening match in Inglewood, California, saw initial ticket prices ranging from $560 to $2,735. On resale platforms, some tickets were listed for more than $60,000 earlier this month.

For the first time, FIFA will implement dynamic pricing, meaning costs could fluctuate based on demand. Fans will be able to choose seats across four categories, with Category 1 representing premium seats closest to the pitch, and Category 4 representing the most affordable options in upper sections.

Despite high interest, questions remain about logistics for international fans, particularly regarding U.S. visa requirements amid tightening immigration rules. Recent reports have suggested that travel restrictions may influence attendance, as seen when a friendly match featuring Argentina and Lionel Messi was moved from Chicago to Florida due to slower ticket sales.

The 2026 World Cup, the first to be hosted across three countries, is expected to be the largest sporting event in history, both in scope and attendance.

FIFPro: Ronaldo, Messi make 26-man shortlist for 2025 men’s world XI

Simeon Bateren
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FIFPro: Ronaldo, Messi make 26-man shortlist for 2025 men’s world XI

LONDON (BN24) — Football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have once again been named among the world’s elite as FIFPro on Monday released the 26-man shortlist for the 2025 Men’s World XI.

The announcement, made via FIFPro’s official X account, unveiled the names of the players competing for a place in the final team, which honors the best footballers in the world as voted by their professional peers.

FIFPro’s annual World XI award remains one of football’s most prestigious recognitions, reflecting the opinions of players from every continent and celebrating the standout performances across global competitions.

The shortlist spans football’s biggest leagues and showcases a blend of experience and youth.

In the goalkeeping category, nominees include Alisson Becker (Liverpool), Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), and Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain), three consistent performers for club and country.

The defensive lineup features Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain), and William Saliba (Arsenal).

In midfield, the list includes Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Luka Modric (Real Madrid), Joao Neves (Benfica), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Pedri (Barcelona), Federico Valverde (Real Madrid), and Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain) a collection of world-class playmakers combining creativity, vision, and consistency.

The forward selection features football’s most recognizable names: Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Raphinha (Barcelona), Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), and Lamine Yamal (Barcelona).

Fans and analysts have already begun debating who will make the final XI, with attention centered on how seasoned icons like Ronaldo and Messi will fare against emerging stars such as Cubarsi, Yamal, and Neves.

The inclusion of these young players signals a generational shift in world football, as a new wave of talent continues to challenge the dominance of established legends. This dynamic highlights the sport’s evolution, a fusion of experience, creativity, and youthful brilliance shaping the modern game.

The final FIFPro Men’s World XI will be revealed on Monday, November 3, 2025, during the official FIFA awards ceremony.

With some of the sport’s most celebrated names competing for recognition, the announcement promises to ignite further debate and anticipation among fans worldwide.

This year’s shortlist underscores not only the enduring excellence of football’s greatest stars but also the rise of a new generation determined to leave its mark on the global stage.

Vinicius Jr ‘seriously considering leaving Real Madrid’ following clash with Xabi Alonso

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Vinicius Jr ‘seriously considering leaving Real Madrid’ following clash with Xabi Alonso

MADRID (BN24) — Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr is reportedly “seriously considering” leaving the club after escalating tensions with coach Xabi Alonso, Spanish media reported Monday.

The 25-year-old Brazilian has been a pivotal figure at the Bernabeu since arriving in 2018, helping Madrid win 14 major trophies, including three La Liga titles. His skill, pace, and creativity have made him one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents, but a growing rift with Alonso has brought his future into question.

The situation reportedly reached a tipping point during Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clásico at the weekend. Vinicius had been left on the bench for the previous league fixture against Getafe, and he was substituted on in the 72nd minute against Barcelona as Madrid sought to secure the win.

Eyewitnesses report that Vinicius stormed down the tunnel after being substituted, shouting at Alonso: “Me? Me? Mister, mister! Me?” as the fourth official held up his number seven on the board. Sources claim he then approached the bench, saying, “Always me! I’m leaving the team! I’m leaving, I’d better go!” before heading directly to the home dressing room.

According to AS, the Spanish sports newspaper, Vinicius feels that his status at the club is not respected by Alonso. The 2024 Ballon d’Or runner-up reportedly believes that Alonso “doesn’t like him,” and this perception has fueled a growing sense of dissatisfaction.

The tension has become a “massive problem” within the squad, according to reports, as Vinicius contemplates whether remaining at the club is in his best interest. The winger’s frustration comes despite his on-field contributions and consistent performances, raising concerns about the relationship between Madrid’s coach and one of its brightest stars.

Real Madrid’s hierarchy is reportedly backing Alonso in the dispute, indicating that they fully support the coach’s decisions regarding Vinicius. While the club remains confident in Alonso’s management, the growing strain between player and manager has become a focal point of discussion among fans and media.

Vinicius’s potential departure could have major ramifications for Madrid’s attacking lineup, particularly given his role in the club’s recent success and his influence in high-profile matches like El Clásico. Analysts suggest that resolving the conflict or finding a compromise will be crucial for the club as they approach key fixtures in the La Liga and Champions League campaigns.

The situation highlights the delicate balance of managing star players in elite European football and raises questions about whether Vinicius will continue to don the Real Madrid shirt beyond the 2025 season.

Israeli forces kill 3 Palestinian militants in West Bank clash, officials say

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Israeli forces kill 3 Palestinian militants in West Bank clash, officials say

Israeli forces shot and killed three Palestinian militants during an exchange of fire in the occupied West Bank, officials confirmed Tuesday, marking the latest incident in a deadly cycle of violence gripping the region for more than a year.

The Israeli military said the clash occurred near the Jit junction west of Nablus when Palestinian gunmen opened fire on troops stationed in the area. Soldiers from the elite Golani reconnaissance unit returned fire, killing the attackers on the spot. No Israeli soldiers were injured.

“Three armed gunmen were neutralized during the exchange of fire and an additional armed gunman surrendered himself to the forces,” the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. The military said its troops seized three M-16 rifles and a pistol used by the assailants.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health identified the dead as Jihad Mohammed al-Shami, 24, Uday Othman al-Shami, 22, and Mohammed Raed Dabeek, 18. The Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, an armed faction affiliated with President Mahmoud Abbas’s Fatah movement, later claimed the men as members.

In a separate incident Tuesday, Israeli police reported that forces in the Jenin refugee camp also killed three suspected militants in an operation targeting planned attacks. Hamas confirmed that two of those killed were its members. The Israeli military said troops engaged the militants in a firefight before carrying out airstrikes on their positions.

The Jenin camp, a longtime stronghold of Palestinian militant groups including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, has been the focus of intensified Israeli raids since January. Large sections of the camp have been reduced to rubble as the Israeli military continues what it describes as an effort to dismantle terrorist networks operating from the area.

The latest clashes come amid surging tensions across the occupied West Bank. According to Palestinian officials, Israeli forces have killed more than 200 Palestinians this year, including both civilians and militants. Over the same period, more than 40 Israelis and foreign nationals have died in attacks by Palestinians.

Recent weeks have seen a rise in deadly confrontations. On Friday, an Israeli settler shot and killed a Palestinian man near an illegal settlement in the northern West Bank. A day earlier, a Hamas gunman opened fire in Tel Aviv, injuring three people before being killed by Israeli security personnel. Hamas said that attack was retaliation for an Israeli raid that left three of its fighters dead earlier in the week.

The escalation follows months of unrest since Israel’s far-right government took power, with settler groups emboldened to carry out violent attacks against Palestinians. In February, settlers rampaged through the town of Huwara, torching homes and vehicles in an assault Israeli officials later described as a “pogrom.”

Israel’s expanding settlements in the West Bank—home to between 600,000 and 750,000 Israelis—remain a key source of tension. The United Nations and most of the international community consider the settlements illegal under international law. Palestinians claim the territory, along with East Jerusalem, as part of a future independent state.

During a recent visit to Israel, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed Washington’s “iron-clad” commitment to Israel’s security but expressed deep concern about rising settler violence against Palestinians. He warned that such actions could “trigger more insecurity” and further destabilize the region.

Reuters

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