Cristiano Ronaldo declares himself the most complete player in football history.
The debate over football’s greatest player of all time continues, with Cristiano Ronaldo firmly placing himself in the conversation alongside Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, and Pelé. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who holds numerous records and major honors, believes his all-around ability sets him apart. Speaking to La Sexta, Ronaldo declared, “I think I’m the most complete player ever. It could be a matter of taste, but I do everything—heading, set pieces, shooting with both feet, speed, strength, and jumping. Saying I’m not complete is a lie.” As he turns 40, Ronaldo remains a prolific scorer and holds the record for the most goals in football history. Following a brace in Al Nassr’s AFC Champions League match against Al Wasl, his tally stands at 923 goals. Confident in his place at the top, he stated, “Even if I score 930 goals, the best in history is me. Period.” His ultimate goal is to reach the 1000-goal milestone.
🚨 Cristiano Ronaldo: “If I finish on 920, 925 goals… it doesn't matter to me at all. I AM THE BEST IN HISTORY. Period”.
“If I reach 1,000 goals, great. If not, that's fine too. Numbers don’t lie”, told Chiringuito. pic.twitter.com/6P2Xvza4ik
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 4, 2025
Palmer stars as Chelsea claims a crucial comeback win over West Ham.
Graham Potter made his first return to Stamford Bridge since his Chelsea departure nearly two years ago, as the Blues fought back from a goal down to secure a 2-1 victory over West Ham in an exciting London derby. Jarrod Bowen, returning from a month-long injury layoff, capitalized on a poor back pass from Levi Colwill to fire the Hammers ahead just before halftime. Chelsea nearly equalized through Cole Palmer’s free-kick, but Alphonse Areola made a crucial save. Shortly after the hour mark, Chelsea drew level when Pedro Neto’s cross created chaos in West Ham’s box, allowing the Portuguese winger to slam home at the far post. After a lengthy VAR check for offside, the goal stood. Chelsea then took the lead as Palmer’s low cross deflected off Aaron Wan-Bissaka and looped over Areola. Despite late pressure, Tosin Adarabioyo’s crucial block on Mohammed Kudus sealed the win for Enzo Maresca’s side.
FT: Chelsea 2-1 West Ham United.
3 POINTS FOR CHELSEA THANKS TO COLE PALMER! 🌟🌟🌟 pic.twitter.com/BgkgR9OpGF
— TheEuropeanLad (@TheEuropeanLad) February 3, 2025
Canelo Álvarez and Crawford reach an agreement for a September 13 title fight.
In what would be an epic match, Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford have reportedly reached a tentative agreement for a Middleweight Championship fight in September, according to The Ring’s Keith Idec. The highly anticipated bout is expected to take place in Las Vegas, though the exact venue and date remain undecided. Ranked second and fifth in ESPN’s pound-for-pound rankings, Crawford and Álvarez have long been on fans’ wish lists for a showdown. Some had doubted the matchup would happen, as Álvarez had been facing less formidable opponents since his 2022 win over Gennady Golovkin. The fight is set to align with Álvarez’s tradition of fighting on Mexican Independence Day weekend. Before then, he is likely to fight William Scull on May 3 at T-Mobile Arena. Crawford’s plans remain unclear, though he may also schedule a tune-up fight before facing Álvarez. Given his history of long layoffs, he may opt for a warm-up to avoid ring rust.
Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford has OFFICIALLY been agreed for September in Las Vegas 🤯
(via @ringmagazine) pic.twitter.com/jmSxuPDy2k
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) February 3, 2025
Kelechi Iheanacho completes a 6-month loan deal to Middlesbrough.
Super Eagles forward, Kelechi Iheanacho has joined Middlesbrough on a six-month Loan from Sevilla. The 27-year-old moved to the La Liga club last summer but struggled for game time, starting only five league matches. His minutes dwindled further, with his last appearance coming in December, prompting him to seek a winter transfer. Now under Michael Carrick’s management, Iheanacho will stay with Middlesbrough until the end of the season. The Championship club will cover 80% of his wages, a figure that will increase to 100% if they reach the playoffs, according to Diario de Sevilla. The loan deal does not include a purchase option, but Sevilla will receive a fee if Middlesbrough secures Premier League promotion. With his experience and goal-scoring ability, Iheanacho will be hoping to make a significant impact as Boro push for a top-flight return.
Kelechi Iheanacho completes his loan move from Sevilla to Middlesbrough 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/myGkYbj2tK
— 49th. (@the49thstreet) February 3, 2025
Lisandro Martínez to be out for an extended period after suffering an ACL tear.
Manchester United defender, Lisandro Martínez faces up to eight months on the sidelines after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury. The Argentine centre-back was stretchered off in tears during United’s 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, and TyC Sports reports he has been diagnosed with a cruciate ligament tear. Martínez will require surgery before beginning a lengthy rehabilitation process. Since joining United, the 27-year-old has struggled with injuries. He missed the final nine weeks of his debut season and was limited to just 14 appearances last term due to recurring fitness issues. This season, he has featured in 32 matches across all competitions. His absence is a major setback for Ruben Amorim as United continue to struggle in the Premier League. They currently sit 13th, 12 points from both fourth place and the relegation zone. As Martínez prepares for surgery, United turn their focus to Friday’s FA Cup clash with Leicester and a trip to Tottenham on February 16.
🚨⚠️ Lisandro Martínez has torn his ACL and his season is now over, reports TyC Sports. pic.twitter.com/ydpDIPQRJp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 3, 2025