MIKEL ARTETA ADMITS 'NOT GOOD SIGNS' AS ARSENAL SUFFER HUGE BUKAYO SAKA INJURY BLOW

 

Arsenal will be without star winger Bukayo Saka for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Everton after he sustained a thigh injury. Manager Mikel Arteta admitted the early signs are concerning, with the player set for an MRI scan to determine the full extent of the issue.

Arsenal suffer major Saka injury blow

Saka has been officially ruled out of Saturday's Premier League fixture against Everton. The 25-year-old is dealing with a thigh injury and requires further medical assessment before a return timeline can be established.

The England international sustained the issue just ten minutes into 2-2 Champions League draw against Bayern Munich. He attempted to continue but was ultimately forced off the pitch due to the problem.

Arteta admits concerning signs for winger

The precise severity of the injury remains unclear, prompting significant concern for Arsenal. Arteta confirmed that the player is undergoing further evaluation to understand the true extent of the damage.

"He's going for an MRI this afternoon because he had a lot of fluid in the area, so it was difficult to understand the severity of the injury. We will know tomorrow," Arteta told a press conference on Friday.

"We need a few more scans and opinions from the specialists. When a player is struggling to walk off the pitch and he's restricted in his movement, they are not good signs. So again, let’s be a little bit patient so we can give a definitive assessment and then let you know."

Arsenal boss frustrated by fixture congestion

The timing of the setback has amplified concerns over player welfare at the highest level. Following the injury to his star winger, Arteta took the opportunity to highlight the immense physical strain placed on modern squads.

The Arsenal manager actively called for greater consideration from football's governing bodies. He stressed that teams are being pushed to their absolute physical limits.

"If they can support the amount we are putting into these players, it would be really appreciated," he said. "We have to play three times in less than six days, the games are so demanding, we are chasing until the last minute."

A demanding schedule awaits the squad

Arsenal must now navigate their immediate domestic duties without one of their most influential attackers. The club will eagerly await the weekend MRI results to establish whether the winger faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The immediate focus shifts to securing three points at home against Everton this Saturday. Arteta will need to shuffle his attacking options to compensate for the significant absence on the right flank.

The relentless run of fixtures will not ease up after the league clash. Arsenal are subsequently scheduled to visit fourth-tier Fleetwood Town in the League Cup fourth round on Tuesday.

Starting his career as an intern at GOAL Indonesia in early 2021, Yosua was promoted to journalist that same year and has consistently written, focusing primarily on English and European football.

Covering the 2023 U-17 World Cup in Indonesia was one of his most memorable experiences. At the tournament, Yosua had the opportunity to meet and interview young talents who are now starting to shine at the elite level: Marc Guiu, Franco Mastantuono, and Claudio Echeverri.

- Yosua Arya

KYLIAN MBAPPÉ OUT FOR TWO WEEKS OR MORE WITH KNEE INJURY

France star sidelined with knee hyperextension but expected back for El Clasico

France's Kylian Mbappe (C) reacts after picking up an injury following his team's first goal, next to France's head coach Zinedine Zidane during the UEFA Nations League (League A, Group 1) first leg football match between Turkey and France at the Kocaeli Stadium in Izmit, on September 25, 2026.
AFP

Paris: France captain Kylian Mbappe suffered a hyperextension of his left knee playing for France, his club Real Madrid said Saturday but could be ready to play again when La Liga resumes.

"Following tests carried out today by Real Madrid's medical department on our player Kylian Mbappe, he has been diagnosed with a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee," the Spanish club said in a statement.

New France coach Zinedine Zidane said France were "not going to take any risks" and that he would not use Mbappe in the three Nations League matches scheduled over the next 10 days.

France travel to Belgium on Monday before hosting Italy and Belgium at the Stade de France on October 2 and 5.

Real Madrid's first game after the international break, with Villarreal on October 10, might be too soon for an Mbappe return but Spanish daily AS reported Saturday he would ceratinly be ready for the Classico with Barcelona October 25.

- AFP

ARSENAL: THREE PLAYERS WHO CAN REPLACE KAI HAVERTZ AS NEW INJURY UPDATE DROPS

© Iconsport / SUSA/Azzuu/SPP Sport Press Photo. /Alamy

Arsenal attacker Kai Havertz will reportedly be sent home from the Germany camp after sustaining an injury in Thursday's 1-1 draw with the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.

The 27-year-old started as Jurgen Klopp's central striker during the League A Group 2 clash at the Amsterdam Arena, but his race was run with just 30 minutes on the clock.

Havertz pulled up with an apparent hamstring problem and left the field alongside medical staff, being replaced by Younes Ebnoutalib shortly before Felix Nmecha opened the scoring.

The Arsenal man also came off worse in a collision with Netherlands midfielder Quinten Timber, and Klopp confirmed that Havertz would undergo an MRI scan to determine the severity of the issue.

Now, The Athletic reports that Havertz will withdraw from the Germany camp, but there is 'optimism' that the former Chelsea man has not suffered a serious problem.

Havertz will be assessed by Arsenal's medical staff and will miss Germany's next three matches against Greece, Serbia and Greece again on September 27, October 1 and October 4 respectively.

How many Arsenal games could Kai Havertz miss?

© Imago / Maximilian Koch

If Havertz has indeed suffered the least severe hamstring injury - a Grade 1 minor strain - there is a chance that the Germany international will not miss any fixtures for the Premier League champions.

Grade 1 issues may take up to a fortnight to heal, and as Arsenal's first game back against Leeds United is more than 14 days away, Havertz may be given the green light to lead the line against the Whites.

However, given the attacker's recent misfortune with injuries, it would not be a shock if he missed the visit of Daniel Farke's side on October 10, and the Champions League clash with Lille on October 13.

A Grade 2 problem may take between four and six weeks to heal, leaving Havertz at risk of missing crunch matches against Bayern Munich and Liverpool on October 21 and November 1 respectively.

How can Arsenal replace injured Kai Havertz?

© Iconsport / SUSA

Mikel Arteta is well-versed in coping without Havertz, as the attacker has missed 63 games for club and country since joining Arsenal in 2023, including a whopping 41 fixtures in 2025-26.

Havertz has forced his way above Viktor Gyokeres in the pecking order this season, scoring three goals in six starts in all tournaments, but the latter will now be at the head of the queue for starts.

Gyokeres is Arteta's only other recognised centre-forward in the squad following Gabriel Jesus's exit, but in spite of Arsenal's failure to sign a new striker in the summer, two other players can step in for Havertz.

Arteta could enact the emergency Mikel Merino number nine protocol, which he has done to stellar effect; the Spaniard has 16 goal involvements from 23 games as a striker for Arsenal, according to Transfermarkt.

Alternatively, Christos Tzolis could start up front with Eberechi Eze or Noni Madueke deputising on the left, although the Greek has played as a centre-forward just 11 times at club level - failing to score or assist in any of those games.

- Ben Knapton

ISACK HADJAR COULD MISS DUTCH GP WITH LIAM LAWSON IN LINE FOR SHOCK RED BULL F1 RETURN

Isack Hadjar will reportedly miss this weekend's Dutch Grand Prix due to injury.

Hadjar picked up a wrist injury over F1's summer break

Isack Hadjar has reportedly been ruled out of the Dutch Grand Prix because of injury, opening the door for a surprise Red Bull Formula 1 return for Liam Lawson. 

Dutch publication De Telegraaf claims Hadjar suffered a wrist injury during a gym session over F1’s summer break that is likely to result in him missing this weekend’s race at Zandvoort. The report notes that a final decision has not yet been made by Red Bull. 

Should Hadjar indeed be sidelined, Lawson has been tipped to replace him and complete a shock return to the Red Bull senior team alongside Max Verstappen for the weekend.

Lawson is set to return to Red Bull for one weekend

Lawson was brutally demoted from Red Bull back to sister team Racing Bulls just two races into the 2025 season, having been brought in to take Sergio Perez’s place over the winter. 

If Hadjar cannot participate, it would also provide Yuki Tsunoda with an unexpected F1 reprieve. The Japanese driver, who acts as Red Bull’s reserve driver, would fill in for Lawson at Racing Bulls at Zandvoort. 

Tsunoda, who stepped up to replace Lawson early in 2025, has been out of F1 since making way for Hadjar at the end of last season, having become the latest victim of Red Bull’s ruthless driver shuffles. 

Ironically, Zandvoort was where Lawson made his F1 debut when he was drafted as a last-minute substitute after Daniel Ricciardo broke his hand in a practice crash ahead of the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix. 

It was also the scene of Hajdar’s maiden F1 podium finish during an impressive rookie campaign that led to the Frenchman ultimately earning the top drive at Red Bull this year. 

Missing this weekend would give Hadjar two weeks to recover before the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on 6 September. 

- Lewis Larkam

TRIPLE H CONFIRMS WWE STAR WAS TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AFTER SUMMERSLAM INJURY

 

Photo Credit: WWE

Triple H confirms Brie Bella was taken to the hospital after her match at WWE SummerSlam Night One.

Brie Bella teamed up with her sister Nikki Bella and Paige in a six-woman tag team match against Fatal Influence’s Jacy Jayne, Lainey Reid, and Fallon Henley at the event. During the contest, it appeared that she sustained a shoulder injury, possibly while Jayne performed a cannonball on Bella against the steel steps.

However, she continued the match, which ended with Jacy Jayne pinning Paige. The Bella Twins then turned heel on Paige after the bout and gave her a beatdown. WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H addressed Brie Bella’s injury during the post-show press conference, revealing that she was taken to the hospital to get scans. There’s no official diagnosis yet, and he hopes it’s not as serious as initially feared.

“She’s injured. I don’t have an update yet. She was here. Got some treatment here. She has been taken to the hospital to get some scans done. So I don’t have a clean answer on it yet. I know a hurt shoulder seems pretty bad, but I don’t have that answer yet.” Triple H said.

“Hopefully we will soon, and hopefully it won’t be as bad as we thought it was. But that’s the nature of the game, and we’ll pivot accordingly. It’s unfortunate. I hate it. It’s part of our business, and I think tonight that was the only serious thing that came out of this,” Triple H concluded.

.- KEBIN ANTONY, H/T WrestleZone

CARLOS ALCARAZ INJURY UPDATE

 

CONOR MCGREGOR ANNOUNCES SURGERY AFTER UFC 329 INJURY

"The Notorious" Wrote On Social Media About The Injury And His Plans For The Future

Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor announced he’ll undergo surgery following a knee injury sustained during the main event of UFC 329.

McGregor ended a five-year hiatus when he returned to the Octagon at T-Mobile Arena on July 11. But his main event fight with former featherweight and BMF champion Max Holloway lasted just 69 seconds when a knee injury sustained in the bout’s opening seconds proved too much to overcome and referee Mike Beltran was forced to wave off the contest.

Immediately following the bout, McGregor shared an update to his followers on social media.

“My head gasket is gone. Destroyed,” he wrote on X.

“I had no injury / injuries going into the fight. I was throwing kicks, planted and jumping, all throughout camp as well as backstage before the fight. This came out of nowhere. I am beyond dark here. I can only describe it as hell.”

McGregor continued and directly addressed suggestions online that he was carrying an injury into the bout.

“I was so sharp and so ready for this fight, I cannot believe what has happened,” he wrote.

“The talk of me being off while walking in to the fight is nonsense. I was calm, ready, and confident. I am in shock what has taken place. The devil is literally staring at me right in front of my face here. I am not engaging. I will be at church tomorrow.”

McGregor then defiantly declared that he will fight back from his latest injury setback to return to the Octagon again.

“I will overcome this. I will not be deterred. I will return.”

Speaking to reporters backstage at the UFC 329 post-fight press conference, UFC President and CEO Dana White offered his thoughts on McGregor’s situation.

“Listen, everybody who knows anything about the fight business – and it’s been a big topic of discussion leading up to this fight – five years off, in this sport, is rough,” he said.

“Who knew what Conor was capable of as far as cardio, or whatever else, after a five-year layoff. And, well, there you go.

“We’re assuming [he sustained a] blown ACL. I’m no doctor, but that’s what I figured when I saw it, and the doctors think the same thing, too.”

Conor McGregor is consoled by Bruce Buffer after suffering a loss against Max Holloway in a welterweight fight during the UFC 329 event at T-Mobile Arena on July 11, 2026 in Las Vegas, NV (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

White said he wasn’t sure what the future held for McGregor, but he didn’t have to wait long for “The Notorious” to make clear his plans as the Irishman posted an update to his Instagram on Monday.

“Surgery. Prehab. Return to martial arts practice. Go again,” he wrote on X.

- SIMON HEAD, ON X: @SIMONHEADSPORT

'WHAT YOU DON'T SEE...' - DOCTOR BREAKS DOWN FULL EXTENT OF CONOR MCGREGOR'S INJURY AGAINST MAX HOLLOWAY

 McGregor's UFC return ended with a knee injury after just 69 seconds.

A doctor has explained the diagnostic details that might have been missed amid speculation over the extent of Conor McGregor's knee injury in his comeback fight in Las Vegas.

McGregor 'blew out' his knee right at the beginning of his welterweight main event against Max Holloway at UFC 329 on Saturday.

The Irishman appeared to injure himself while attempting his first high kick of the fight, which was subsequently awarded to Holloway by technical knockout after just 69 seconds.

McGregor now faces a spell on the sidelines after a five-year hiatus. Holloway promised that McGregor vs Holloway 3 will appear on a future card, acknowledging the unsatisfying manner of the conclusion.

The injured fighter will undergo scans to confirm the extent of his injury, which commentators immediately identified as a potential rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

If that proves to be the case, the 37-year-old can expect to be out of action for several months.

Dr Brian Stutterer is the expert behind a YouTube channel through which he assesses the medical stories that occur in the world of sport and he has been analysing the footage of the abortive UFC 329 bout.

"The commentators were talking about it looked like [McGregor] blew out his knee," said Sutterer in a six-minute video that forensically examines the moments leading up to Holloway's TKO victory.

"I will admit, yes, this position looks like the classic position that you will see with an ACL tear in terms of the rotation of how the foot is externally rotated, the idea that we see a little bit of the knee going inward, the trunk is leaning over his injured side.

Nevertheless, Stutterer offered some reason for doubt about the specific nature of the injury, which UFC head honcho indicated could be an ACL tear, but Stutterer has pointed out can be hastily evaluated even by the UFC's own medical staff at ringside. Only a scan will confirm the reality.

"But what you don't see on this injury is the classic pivot shift that you will sometimes see with an ACL tear," he added.

"Now that doesn't mean that this is not an ACL tear, but you at least don't see that stereotypic kind of pathognomonic shift forward of the tibia and then pop backwards like we would if you could confirm 100% that this was an ACL."

Will McGregor pursue another comeback?

While Holloway said after the fight that the appetite is there to go again after one win each in two McGregor vs Holloway fights, 13 years apart, there has to be some doubt over the 37-year-old's desire to get himself back into the kind of shape that would be required to actually win it.

Saturday's brief appearance was McGregor's first in the octagon since 2021 and marked a third consecutive defeat after back-to-back losses against Dustin Poirier.

McGregor's third consecutive loss dropped him to a 22-7 career record. He hasn't won two in a row since the end of 2016, when he won the UFC lightweight championship by beating Eddie Alvarez.

He lost the belt to Khabib Nurmagomedov by submission two years later.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Images

- Chris Nee

JORDAN HENDERSON'S DAD REVEALS GRIM DETAILS OF ENGLAND STAR'S INJURY AFTER FREAK ACCIDENT AT WORLD CUP

Jordan Henderson suffered a broken arm after slipping off an advertising board (Getty)

Jordan Henderson’s dad has revealed that the England midfielder’s arm is ‘completely smashed’ following his freak accident after the 3-2 win over Mexico at the World Cup.

England sealed their place in the World Cup quarter-final with a thrilling victory at Azteca Stadium as Jude Bellingham struck twice while Harry Kane scored from the penalty spot.

However, England’s win was overshadowed by Henderson’s injury, which he suffered during the team’s celebrations in the immediate aftermath of the game.

After celebrating with England’s travelling supporters, Henderson slipped while jumping over an advertising board and suffered a broken radius after he landed awkwardly.

The former Liverpool captain, who now plays for Brentford, left the pitch on a stretcher and was given oxygen, while he will now miss the remainder of England’s World Cup campaign as he requires surgery.

Henderson’s father, Brian Henderson, insists the midfielder will remain with England’s squad for the remainder of the tournament, despite being unable to play.

Jordan Henderson left the pitch on a stretcher after England’s 3-2 win against Mexico (PA Wire)

At first I just thought he’d fallen, I thought he’d maybe scraped his wrist,’ Brian told the Daily Mail.

‘I had no idea it was that serious until they were interviewing Harry Kane and a trolley came past with Jordan on it. I could see him on there with oxygen and things.

‘Straight away, I messaged his PA, who was over there, to try and find out what had happened. I was up all night waiting to hear the news. It’s just a waiting game now.

Jordan Henderson with his father Brian Henderson after Liverpool’s win in the Champions League final in 2019 (Shutterstock)

‘It’s his left forearm, he’s just completely smashed it. He’s going to have a cast on and then it depends on what the experts say.

‘He won’t be leaving his teammates. He’ll be there until it’s finished.’

In his first message to fans since the injury, Henderson praised England’s ‘incredible’ display and thanked supporters for their messages.

‘A night to remember that’s for sure!’ Henderson wrote.

‘What an incredible performance against all the different challenges. So proud to be a part of this special team.

‘Thanks for all the support, another big one Saturday.’

Meanwhile, England defender Marc Guehi says Henderson is now in ‘a better place’ after his accident.

‘Hendo’s good,’ Guehi said on England’s Lion’s Den programme on Tuesday.

‘He’s in a better place than he was yesterday.

‘It was obviously scary for him and his family and for everyone else, but we’re just glad that he’s on the road to a speedy recovery.’

- Chris Davie

TANZANIA'S PRESIDENT HON. SAMIA SULUHU HASSAN VISITS YOUNG AFRICANS STAR PAĈOME ZOUZOUA AT AGA KHAN HOSPITAL

President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has paid a visit to Young Africans SC forward Paĉome Zouzoua, who is receiving treatment at Aga Khan Hospital.

Paĉome sustained a terrible injury at the last match of the NBC Premier League season in Dar es Salaam.

HAILEY BAPTISE SUFFERERS HORRIFIC FALL AND BURSTS INTO TEAT AS PARAMEDICS COME TO HELP | ROLAND-GARROS 2026

 

MAJOR INJURY UPDATES THAT COULD SHAKEUP THE NBA PLAYOFFS

 

BREAKING: HUGO EKITIKE HAS SUFFERED A RAPTURED ACHILLES TENDON

Hugo Ekitike has suffered a long-term injury and will miss the rest of Liverpool FC's season and this summer's World Cup

We wish Hugo all the best in his recovery

LIVERPOOL'S EKITIKE RULED OUT OF WORLD CUP WITH FRANCE

Didier Deschamps has confirmed the news after the 23-year-old suffered a serious injury against PSG.

PSG and Liverpool players comfort Hugo Ekitike after his injury in their Champions League clash. Alamy Stock Photo

LIVERPOOL AND FRANCE forward Hugo Ekitike will miss the 2026 World Cup after suffering a serious injury in his club’s Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain, his national team coach Didier Deschamps said Wednesday.

The 23-year-old crumpled in a heap holding his lower right leg with a suspected ruptured Achilles tendon during the first half of Liverpool’s 2-0 quarter-final second-leg defeat to European champions PSG on Tuesday.

“Unfortunately, the severity of (Ekitike’s) injury will prevent him from finishing the season with Liverpool and taking part in the World Cup,” Deschamps said in a statement released by the French football federation.

“This injury is a huge blow for him, of course, but also for the French national team.

“I wanted to express my full support for him, as well as that of the entire coaching staff.”

Ekitike has scored 17 goals in 45 matches in all competitions for Liverpool since arriving at Anfield for a fee of £79 million ($105.5 million) last summer.

Since winning his first France cap in a World Cup qualifier in September last year, Ekitike has been a regular in Les Bleus’ set-up, scoring two goals and providing one assist in his eight caps.

– AFP 

KYLIAN MBAPPÉ SHUTS DOWN 'WRONG KNEE' INJURY CONTROVERSY AT REAL MADRID, SAY'S 'I'M RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SITUATION'

France's forward Kylian Mbappe signs autographs upon arriving at the hotel in Boston on March 24, 2026. (AFP)

Kylian Mbappe on Wednesday shut down claims that Real Madrid examined the wrong knee following the injury he sustained late last year.

The controversy stemmed from a report on French broadcaster RMC Sport’s talk show After Foot, which claimed that the club had initially scanned Mbappe’s right knee instead of his left after the December injury. The report was widely picked up by global media outlets.

Mbappe, however, dismissed the claim outright.

“The report that said that they (examined) the wrong knee is false,” he said at a press conference ahead of France’s international friendly against Brazil.

While rejecting the claim, the French star admitted that a lack of communication may have contributed to the speculation.

“I am maybe responsible indirectly for this situation, because when you don’t communicate on what’s happening, it opens doors to others’ interpretations.”

Mbappe had earlier stated in December that he had sprained his left knee. He continued playing through January before being sidelined for three-and-a-half weeks, returning only recently and featuring as a substitute in his last two matches for Real Madrid.

The 27-year-old also emphasised that there has been no confusion internally.

“I have very clear communication” with Real Madrid, he said.

Currently in Boston, Mbappe is part of the France squad set to face Brazil in an international friendly in Foxborough on Thursday, before taking on Colombia in Landover on Sunday.

Speaking earlier this week in Paris, Mbappe admitted the injury phase had taken a mental toll.

“There was a lot of frustration, a lot of anger, and then also some anxiety at one point,” he said. “I had reached a stage where I didn’t know what was wrong with me. I didn’t go through that period in the best way. I wasn’t the happiest player in the world. But I’m happy now because it’s truly behind me. It’s all gone.”

France head coach Didier Deschamps has yet to confirm whether Mbappe will start in the upcoming fixtures.

- Aratrick Mondal

GALATASARAY READY TO TAKE LEGAL ACTION AFTER HORROR NOA LANG INJURY VS. LIVERPOOL

Galatasaray will reportedly take legal action against UEFA after Dutch forward Noa Lang suffered a freak thumb injury from a collision with an advertising hoarding at Anfield

Noa Lang was forced off against Liverpool after suffering a serious injury to his thumb(Image: Getty Images)

Galatasaray reportedly intends to seek compensation from UEFA after Noa Lang suffered a freak injury from a collision with an advertising hoarding at Anfield during their Champions League defeat to Liverpool.

The Reds booked their place in the Champions League quarterfinals on Wednesday after beating Galatasaray 4-0 (4-1 on aggregate) at Anfield, setting up a rematch with Paris Saint-Germain, who knocked Liverpool out of the competition in the Round of 16 last year.

During the clash at Anfield, Lang suffered a gruesome injury for which he underwent surgery after he collided with an advertising board. The Dutch forward was in agony, holding his bloody thumb before being taken off the pitch on a stretcher. He was also seen being given oxygen as he left the pitch.

"In the second half of the same match, our player Noa Lang, who suffered an injury, sustained a serious cut to his right thumb, and it is planned for him to undergo surgery in Liverpool in the coming hours with the participation of our medical team," read a statement from the Turkish club, who now reportedly look set to take legal action against UEFA for the injury.

According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, Galatasaray's general secretary, Eray Yazgan, told HTSpor: "We made a complaint to UEFA representatives after the match. They also made their investigations. UEFA will evaluate the issue.

Noa Lang receives medical attention during Galatasaray's Champions League defeat to Liverpool(Image: (Paul ELLIS / AFP via Getty Images))

"We are in talks with lawyers. We will file a lawsuit for compensation to UEFA. We will ask for our victimization in terms of salary to be eliminated."

Following the game, Liverpool and UEFA officials were spotted investigating the advertising hoarding where the incident occurred.

Liverpool officials inspect the fence against which Galatasaray's Dutch forward Noa Lang sustained an injury(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

While Lang was in serious discomfort following the injury, he later posted a picture on his Instagram account of himself on a hospital bed with two nurses while still in his Galatasaray kit, smiling.

He captioned the post, "s--- happens."

He also confirmed that he has had surgery on his injured hand, with the procedure going successfully. "Surgery went well! Thanks for all the messages," he added.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Ally McCoist, who was covering Liverpool and Galatasaray's game, admitted he could tell the 26-year-old had suffered a shocking injury simply by looking at the reaction of the photographer who was next to Lang when it happened.

"He said: "I could tell there was a significant problem because one of the girls behind there, I'm not sure if she's a photographer but you could see her face, the way she reacted."

- Oscar Maung-Haley

NBA FANS REACT TO GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS STEPH CURRY ANNOUNCEMENT

 

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MAY 04: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after defeating the Houston Rockets 103-89 in Game Seven of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center on May 04, 2025 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

On Monday night, the Golden State Warriors will play the LA Clippers on their home floor in San Francisco.

The Warriors have been without their best player since the end of January, as two-time MVP Steph Curry continues to deal with an injury.

Golden State Warriors Make Steph Curry Announcement

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts to fouling out during the second half of a game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Intuit Dome on January 05, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

On Sunday, the Warriors announced an update on Curry.

Yahoo Sports wrote: “Steph Curry will be sidelined at least more 10 days after being re-evaluated for lingering knee issues, the Warriors announced. Curry last played on Jan. 30 and has missed the last 10 games with patella-femoral syndrome/bone bruising in his right knee.”

Before the injury, the four-time NBA Champion had been averaging 27.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.1 steals per contest while shooting 46.8% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range in 39 games.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 19: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after he had an assist to Gary Payton II against the Miami Heat at Chase Center on January 19, 2026 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Here’s what people were saying about the news:

@DrNiravPandya: “This is not surprising given the tricky nature of patellofemoral syndrome (with bone bruising as reported by the team). Unlike other conditions, the recovery is not linear. As it largely stems from overuse, pushing too quickly can lead to a flare up and more time missed.”

@Gene_February: “Speedy recovery to the Greatest player of our Generation”

@WarriorsAdamo: “They know he isn’t coming back, just shut him down for the season. They can afford the ticket sales dropping”

@Luigi__457: “Geez man Warriors are cooked.”

@diptimahapatra: “Steph go on a long vacation with Ayesha. This team is beyond saving and I would hate to see Steph get a catastrophic injury trying to salvage this season.”

@CuffsTheLegend: “Warriors should shut Steph Curry down for the rest of the season. This season is cooked anyway for Golden State. Let Steph get healthy and keep developing your young players.”

HOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 30: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the second quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on April 30, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

The Warriors have had an up-and-down season that currently has them as the eighth seed in the Western Conference with a 31-29 record in 60 games.

They are 19-12 in the 31 games they have hosted at the Chase Center.

Curry was the seventh pick in the 2009 NBA Draft out of Davidson.

He has spent all 17 years of his career with Golden State.

In that span, Curry and the Warriors have made the NBA Finals six times (and won four titles).

- Ben Stinar

ARSENAL'S LONG LIST OF INJURIES

 

BARCELONA'S GERALD PIQUÉ COULD HAVE DIED DUE TO HEAD COLLISIONS ACCORDING TO NEUROSURGEON

Gerard Piqué has taken on thousands of aerial challenges in his career, but one incident stands out to Andreu Gabarrós, head of neurosurgery at Hospital de Bellvitge. Reflecting on a match in which the defender briefly lost consciousness, Gabarrós recalled thinking, “If he gets another impact, he could die.” That moment, he says, illustrates how dangerous head trauma in football can be.

Gabarrós noted that Piqué was initially on the verge of returning to the pitch before medical staff intervened. Their decision, he believes, was crucial. A second blow before full recovery can trigger what specialists call second-impact syndrome, a rapid and severe brain swelling that can be fatal without immediate intervention. Cases in American football exposed the phenomenon years ago, and the same mechanism can apply in any contact sport.

The neurosurgeon emphasized that a concussion should sideline a player for at least a couple of weeks, regardless of how mild the symptoms may seem. Dizziness, headache, nausea, instability, or simply a sense that “something isn’t right” should prompt immediate evaluation. While athletes often push to continue, he stressed that medical teams must override them when necessary.

Beyond dramatic incidents like the one involving Piqué, football continues to grapple with the potential cumulative effects of repeated heading. Each impact moves the brain within the skull, and although cerebrospinal fluid provides a degree of protection, it is not always enough to prevent minor injuries. Gabarrós explained that repetitive heading can amount to microtrauma. Some studies have detected proteins in players’ blood that act as markers of mild brain injury after controlled heading drills. While he said there is still no conclusive structured evidence linking football to widespread chronic neurological decline, there are clinical parallels to conditions seen in boxing, where repeated blows are far more frequent and intense.

Even so, chronic traumatic encephalopathy remains an area in need of more research. According to Gabarrós, only a very small share of players appear to develop long-term cognitive issues, suggesting that personal factors may play a significant role. He cautioned that current science cannot justify claims such as “don’t play football because you’ll get dementia,” especially given how rare these outcomes appear to be.

The tragic death of young goalkeeper Raúl Ramírez, who suffered a fatal acute brain injury after a single accidental collision, underscores the difference between sudden severe trauma and long-term, low-grade damage. Gabarrós explained that an acute event can involve hematomas, brain swelling, or contusions that require intensive care, surgery, and in some cases cannot be reversed. Such incidents, while uncommon, are inherent to any contact sport.

Protocols in Spain vary by club, and Gabarrós believes national guidelines from La Liga or the federation would help standardize prevention. Trainers and players, he said, should be better informed about the risks, since symptoms can be subtle and easy to ignore. Given that most incidents occur during training sessions, oversight cannot be limited to match days.

- Luis Mazariegos

RICARDO CALAFIORI INJURY STATEMENT ISSUED AS ARSENAL STAR IMMEDIATELY LEAVES ITALY CAMP

Riccardo Calafiori has returned to Arsenal(FIGC via Getty Images)

Arsenal have been handed a fresh injury concern, as left-back Riccardo Calafiori has returned to north London from international duty with Italy prematurely

Arsenal have been handed another injury setback, with Riccardo Calafiori forced to cut short his international duty and return to north London early. Reports from Italy confirmed the defender departed the Italy camp on Saturday, missing his nation's 2026 World Cup qualifier against Norway on Sunday evening.

He will now return to London, where he will be assessed by Arsenal doctors. Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso had said: "He tried to be available but he can't force now," regarding Calafiori's situation.

It's believed Arsenal medical staff have been notified of Calafiori's return to the capital, with the club not anticipating any serious complications, reports Football London.

This development comes after the 23-year-old reportedly 'disregarded' Arsenal's wishes for him to remain in London during the international window, according to Italian reports.

The full back has proved integral to Mikel Arteta's league-leading squad this season, featuring from the start in all 11 of the Gunners' Premier League matches so far.

With Arsenal already managing multiple injury concerns whilst maintaining their four-point advantage over second-placed Manchester City, the club will understandably be keen to prevent any additional problems ahead of a demanding fixture list.

Italian reports on Wednesday hinted that Calafiori had been training solo, before he was completely absent from the match against Moldova the next evening.

Although it's believed he has a hip injury, it's not thought to be too serious.

La Repubblica also reported that Arsenal would have preferred Calafiori to skip international duty to recover from his hip injury, so as not to worsen the problem.

Riccardo Calafiori has been instrumental for Arsenal this season(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
However

However, the report also claimed that Gattuso and delegation chief, Gianluigi Buffon, encouraged players to prioritise the national team in their quest for qualification for next summer's World Cup in North America.

This comes as Arsenal are hoping to welcome back several first-team players when they return to Premier League action on Sunday, November 23 to face arch-rivals Tottenham.

Noni Madueke and Kai Havertz have made significant strides in their recovery from respective knee injuries. While it was suggested that both could have featured during Arsenal U21s' clash with Cardiff City on Tuesday night, neither man was present for the 3-1 Football League Trophy defeat.

In other news, Norway boss Stale Solbakken believes Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is still "some distance away" from his own return. Gabriel Jesus is also set to make a comeback ahead of the new year, following ACL surgery in late January.

Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Martinelli are also on the mend from hamstring and groin injuries they picked up before the international break.

- Aaron Morris and Jack Staplehurst