That's a wrap.  The United States' thrilling overtime victory against Canada in the men's hockey ...

<p>That's a wrap.</p><p>The United States' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3483721" href="https://thescore.com/news/3483721">thrilling overtime victory</a> against Canada in the men's hockey final saw the last remaining medals handed out at Milan Cortina 2026.</p><p>That triumph capped a record-breaking Games for the Americans, who set a new national benchmark with 12 gold medals at a single Winter Olympics. They finished with 33 overall.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>That impressive total - an improvement on the 25 medals won in Beijing - wasn't enough for top spot in the final table, though.</p><p>That belonged to Norway, which blew away the field with 18 golds and 41 total podium finishes. Cross-country skiing superstar Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo was responsible for six of those gold medals, setting a new Winter Olympic record in the process. Not including his own country, the 29-year-old, known as "King Klaebo" for obvious reasons, captured more gold medals on his own than all but seven nations that took part in the 2026 Games.</p><h3>Total medal standings</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-f8x08" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/f8x08/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="342" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>This is the third consecutive Winter Olympics where Norway finished with the most total medals. The Norwegians also went home with the most golds four years ago in Beijing.</p><p>Host nation Italy enjoyed its best-ever Winter Olympics with 30 total medals, but couldn't hold off the surging Americans, who recovered from a slow start and secured instantly iconic golds in both men's and women's hockey.</p><p>Canada, which had to settle for silver in both those events, had to wait until Day 9 of competition to secure a gold medal and hear its national anthem played, but ultimately finished with five golds, including in men's curling.</p><p>The Canadians took a step back from their medal haul in Beijing, where they finished with 26 total podium spots.</p><p>Other notable accomplishments include the Netherlands' 10 gold medals - all of which came in speedskating (five in long track, five in short track) where the Dutch always thrive - and Lucas Pinheiro Braathen of Brazil winning the giant slalom to give South America its first-ever gold medal at the Winter Olympics.</p><p>The 2030 Winter Olympics will take place in the French Alps.</p>

(From L) Silver medallists USA's Ben Ogden and USA's Gus Schumacher, gold medallists Norway's Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo and Norway's Einar Hedegart and bronze medallists Italy's Federico Pellegrino and Italy's Elia Barp celebrate on the podium for the men's team cross country free sprint final event of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium in Lago di Tesero (Val di Fiemme), on February 18, 2026.

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Speedskaters Valerie Maltais and Steven Dubois will carry the flag for Canada during Sunday's clo...

<p>Speedskaters Valerie Maltais and Steven Dubois will carry the flag for Canada during Sunday's closing ceremony of the Milan Cortina Games, the Canadian Olympic Committee announced Saturday.</p><p>Maltais, appearing in her fifth Olympics, captured three medals in Italy.</p><p>The 35-year-old was part of the squad that defended its Olympic title in the women's team pursuit - alongside Ivanie Blondin and Isabelle Weidemann - and also claimed individual bronzes in the 1,500-meter and 3,000-meter events.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Maltais now has five Olympic medals in her career, including one in short-track speedskating before she switched to long track.</p><p><em>For viewers in Canada only:</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Valérie Maltais and Steven Dubois share what they were feeling when they found out they were selected to be the closing ceremony flag-bearers🥹🇨🇦 <a href="https://t.co/zxi1GmVQw8">pic.twitter.com/zxi1GmVQw8</a></p>— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBCOlympics/status/2025345440976134592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Dubois took home a thrilling gold in the men's 500-meter short-track final and helped capture silver for Canada in the mixed relay in Italy. The 28-year-old has five career Olympic medals.</p><p>"I didn't think I was going to get the honor right now, it's a surprise," Dubois <a href="https://olympic.ca/2026/02/21/maltais-and-dubois-to-carry-canadian-flag-at-milano-cortina-2026-closing-ceremony/">said</a> after receiving the news. "Thank you so much for the opportunity. I'm so happy."</p><p>The closing ceremony will be held at the Verona Arena.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 20: Bronze medalist Valerie Maltais of Team Canada celebrates on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Speed Skating Women's 1500m on day fourteen of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Speed Skating Stadium on February 20, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Brad Jacobs is back on the top step of the podium.  Jacobs and his Canadian teammates defeated Gr...

<p>Brad Jacobs is back on the top step of the podium.</p><p>Jacobs and his Canadian teammates defeated Great Britain - the world's top-ranked rink comprised of an all-Scottish quartet - to claim gold at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Saturday.</p><p>The win gives Canada its first gold medal in men's curling since Jacobs' triumph, also over Great Britain, in the 2014 Olympic final in Sochi.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm proud of my guys. I'm proud of the way that we were able to hang in there throughout that game," Jacobs told <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/winter/curling/olympic-curling-canada-men-gold-medal-match-february-21-9.7099370">CBC Sports</a>. "To see the look on their faces at the end and celebrating that win is special."</p><p><em>For viewers in Canada only:</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="373" height="663" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0NoB1n_eqf0" title="Team Jacobs wins gold in men's curling final #milanocortina2026 #cbcsports" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Jacobs didn't feature at the Winter Games in 2018 or 2022, losing in the fiercely contested Canadian trials that determine Olympic qualification.</p><p>His return was worth the wait.</p><p>The 40-year-old skip capitalized in the ninth end Saturday, scoring three points after Great Britain made its only notable errors of the game. Bruce Mouat's team missed multiple double-takeout attempts to create the big end, allowing Canada to eventually claim a thrilling 9-6 victory.</p><p>Every member of the Calgary-based squad - Jacobs, Marc Kennedy, Brett Gallant, and Ben Hebert - has now claimed multiple Olympic medals in their respective careers.</p><p>For Mouat, this is the second consecutive Olympic silver medal after his team lost in the final to Sweden's Niklas Edin four years ago in Beijing.</p><p>Rachel Homan defeated the United States to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3482974" href="https://thescore.com/news/3482974">win bronze in women's curling</a> earlier in the day, as Canada closed out an eventful and, at times, controversial Olympics on the pebbled ice with two medals.</p>

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 21: Gold medalists Brad Jacobs, Marc Kennedy, Brett Gallant, Ben Hebert and Tyler Tardi of Team Canada pose with their medals on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Men's Curling on day fifteen of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium on February 21, 2026 in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.

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<p>Rachel Homan's rink finally has an Olympic medal.</p><p>The Canadian curlers defeated the United States 10-7 on Saturday to claim bronze at the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.</p><p>It's the first time Canada has reached the Olympic podium in women's curling since Jennifer Jones captured gold at the Sochi Games in 2014.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Homan and Co. were "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3482379" href="https://thescore.com/news/3482379">heartbroken</a>" after losing to Sweden in the semifinals and missing out on the chance to play for gold, but the world's top-ranked team recovered from that setback and pulled out an entertaining victory over the Americans in a contest that featured great shot-making from both squads.</p><p>"It's hard to describe," Homan said after taking home her first medal in her third Olympic appearance, according to the <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/winter/curling/olympic-women-curling-canada-bronze-medal-usa-february-21-9.7099349">CBC</a>. "The week that we had, the fight that we showed, I'm so incredibly proud of the team and how we fought to get this bronze medal."</p><p>Her Ottawa-based team of Tracy Fleury, Emma Miskew, and Sarah Wilkes struggled early in round-robin play in Italy, starting 1-3 before finishing strong to reach the medal rounds.</p><p>Homan missed the playoffs in her Olympic debut in 2018, and again four years later in Beijing in the mixed doubles event.</p><p>Tabitha Peterson's American rink, meanwhile, was looking to win the United States' first-ever Olympic medal in women's curling. </p><p>The U.S. stunned Homan in round-robin play, but couldn't repeat the feat Saturday, ultimately coming up just short.</p><p>Sweden will play Switzerland for gold on Sunday.</p>

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 21: Emma Miskew, Rachel Homan, Tracy Fleury and Sarah Wilkes of Team Canada celebrate after victory in the Women's Bronze Medal match between Team Canada and Team United States on day fifteen of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium on February 21, 2026 in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.

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<p>Canadian speedskater Steven Dubois captured gold in the men's 500m short track race Wednesday.</p><p>The 28-year-old got off the line quickly and held off multiple Dutch skaters in the frenetic four-and-a-half lap race to win his first individual Olympic title.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Steven Dubois wins GOLD in men's 500m short track speed skating ⛸️🇨🇦 🥇 <a href="https://t.co/4ANzPUKiN6">pic.twitter.com/4ANzPUKiN6</a></p>— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBCOlympics/status/2024239678095085652?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Dubois now has five career Olympic medals, including a bronze from the same event during the 2022 Games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He helped the Canadian mixed relay team claim silver on Day 4 in Milan, but had otherwise struggled in the individual disciplines - the 1,000m and 1,500m events - before Wednesday's exciting triumph.</p><p>Fellow Canadian William Dandjinou, considered the gold-medal favorite in the 500m race going into the Winter Games, had a scrappy final and finished off the podium. He was also penalized after the race.</p><p>Brothers Melle van 't Wout and Jens van 't Wout took home silver and bronze, respectively, for the Netherlands. The latter was seeking his third gold medal in Italy after winning each of his two previous individual events.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 18: Gold medalist Steven Dubois of Team Canada celebrates on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Short Track Speed Skating Men's 500m on day twelve of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Ice Skating Arena on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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<p>Can anyone reel in Norway?</p><p>The Scandinavian nation sits atop the table in both gold and overall medals heading into the final week of competition at the Milan Cortina Games, with host nation Italy sitting second after a flurry of podium finishes Sunday.</p><p>Led by cross-country skiing icon Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, who now owns a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3479308" href="https://thescore.com/news/3479308">Winter Olympics-record</a> nine gold medals (and counting) over his illustrious career, the Norwegians are the only country to hit double digits in the gold-medal column thus far at the 2026 Games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Italians, meanwhile, are already enjoying their best-ever performance at the Winter Olympics with 22 total medals, eclipsing their previous mark of 20 set at the Lillehammer Games in 1994. With one full week of competition remaining, Italy is poised to blow past that benchmark.</p><h3>Total medal standings</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vsIff" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vsIff/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="496" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>After a slow start to the Games, the United States is surging going into the final week of action. Speedskater Jordan Stolz, the 21-year-old phenom already responsible for two of the Americans' five gold medals, is aiming to add two more to complete a perfect sweep in his various long track events.</p><p>Canada, meanwhile, finally got its first gold medal on the board in Day 9 of competition. Mikael Kingsbury, one of the country's flag bearers, took top spot in dual moguls for the fifth Olympic medal of his storied career.</p><p>The North American neighbors are expected to battle it out for gold in two of the marquee events still to be decided at these Winter Olympics. </p><p>Their respective women's hockey teams are virtual locks to meet in the gold-medal game, while Team Canada and Team USA were dominant forces in the men's hockey tournament in the preliminary round.</p>

VAL DI FIEMME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 15: Gold Medalists Emil Iversen of Team Norway, Martin Loewstroem Nyenget of Team Norway, Einar Hedegart of Team Norway and Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo of Team Norway celebrates at the Medal Ceremony for the Men's 4 x 7.5km Relay on day nine of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium on February 15, 2026 in Val di Fiemme, Italy.

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Speedskater Courtney Sarault earned her second medal of the Milan Cortina Games on Thursday, coll...

<p>Speedskater Courtney Sarault earned her second medal of the Milan Cortina Games on Thursday, collecting short track bronze in the women's 500m race.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Courtney Sarault claims bronze in short track speed skating ⛸️🥉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MedalCelebrations?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MedalCelebrations</a> presented by <a href="https://twitter.com/BRP_Global?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@brp_global</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRPHeartbeat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRPHeartbeat</a> <a href="https://t.co/kqB2yj5j1j">pic.twitter.com/kqB2yj5j1j</a></p>— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBCOlympics/status/2022066607447752863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Sarault picked up a silver medal as part of Canada's mixed relay team earlier in the 2026 Winter Olympics.</p><p>Xandra Velzeboer of the Netherlands won gold in the 500m final after setting a new world record (41.399 seconds) in the semifinals. Italian speedskating icon Arianna Fontana took silver for the 13th medal of her Olympic career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Canadian Kim Boutin, who was seeking her third consecutive Olympic medal in the 500, crossed the line in fifth.</p><p>Minutes later, in the last race Thursday evening, Canada's William Dandjinou finished just off the podium in the men's 1,000m final, ending up fourth. The 24-year-old, who was also part of the aforementioned mixed relay team, led for the majority of his race but was overtaken on the final lap.</p><p>Canada now has seven total medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics - three silver, four bronze - but is still awaiting its first gold.</p>

Bronze medalist Canada's Courtney Sarault poses on the podium after competing in the short track speed skating women's 500m final during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan on February 12, 2026. / ALTERNATIVE CROP

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<p>The host nation is off to a strong start at the Milan Cortina Olympics.</p><p>Italy enjoyed its best-ever single day at the Winter Games on Sunday, grabbing six medals to increase its overall tally to nine - more than any other country thus far - after the opening weekend of competition.</p><p>Italy is already almost halfway to matching its all-time best Winter Games performance, which came at Lillehammer 1994, when the country left with 20 medals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Norway leads the gold medal count in Milan Cortina, with cross-country skiing icon Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo among the Norwegians to stand on the top of the podium.</p><h3>Total medal standings</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-q6nmC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/q6nmC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="469" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>After being kept off the podium on Day 1, the United States got on the board in a big way Sunday, claiming two gold medals.</p><p>Ilia Malinin, known as the "Quad God," delivered a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3475050" href="https://thescore.com/news/3475050">spectacular performance</a> to lift the U.S. to its second consecutive Olympic title in team figure skating. Earlier in the day, American Breezy Johnson won gold in the women's downhill event.</p><p>Canada, meanwhile, has one bronze medal to its name, courtesy of speedskater Valerie Maltais.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 8: Bronze medalists of Team Italy celebrate on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Team Event following the Men's Single Skating - Free Skating Team Event on day two of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Ice Skating Arena on February 8, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> will again wear the "C" for his country in best-on-best competition.</p><p>The Toronto Maple Leafs star was named captain of the U.S. men's hockey team for the 2026 Winter Olympics, reprising his leadership role from last year's 4 Nations Face-Off.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> will serve as alternate captains for the Americans at the Milan Cortina Games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Auston, Charlie, and Matthew did a great job in leading our team a year ago at Four Nations, and it's great to have them back in those roles for the Olympics," U.S. general manager Bill Guerin said in a <a href="https://teamusa.usahockey.com/news_article/show/1355154">statement</a>.</p><p>"They all bring different leadership traits to the table, and I know all three are excited, as is our whole team, about representing our country as part of Team USA."</p><p>Matthews, 28, has 26 goals and 48 points in 51 games this season with the Leafs.</p><p>"It's crazy to think about now we're here, and you get this opportunity, and it's just very special," Matthews told reporters Sunday after the team's first practice in Italy. "You're always extremely honored to represent your country and wear the Team USA jersey, but obviously it means that much more when you're doing it at a setting like the Olympics."</p><p>The Americans, who lost to Canada in overtime of the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game, are looking to claim Olympic gold in men's hockey for the first time since the famous "Miracle on Ice" team in 1980.</p><p>The U.S. begins play against Latvia on Feb. 12.</p>

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 13: Auston Matthews #34 of Team United States skates during the third period of the 4 Nations Face-Off game between the United States and Finland at Bell Centre on February 13, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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<p>Amid reports that ski jumpers could inject their penises with hyaluronic acid in order to gain a competitive advantage at the Winter Olympics, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said it's prepared to investigate if presented with evidence.</p><p>German newspaper <a href="https://www.bild.de/sport/mehr-sport/penis-wirbel-bei-vierschanzentournee-sorgt-fuer-diskussionen-695abf3887cfb9675dd2d7bd">BILD</a> reported in January that there's been talk within the ski jumping community about the practice, which aims to manipulate the suit-fitting process.</p><p>"I'm not aware of the details of ski jumping and how it can improve, but if anything was to come to the surface, we would look at anything if it is actually doping related," Olivier Niggli, director general of WADA, said at a press conference Thursday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7024688/2026/02/05/ski-jump-penis-enhancement-wada/">Philip Buckingham of The Athletic</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When asked about the alleged injections, Niggli answered: "We don't do other means of enhancing performance, but our list committee would certainly look into whether this would fall into this category. But I haven't heard about that until you mentioned."</p><p>The sport's governing body, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, dismissed the matter as a "wild rumor," according to the <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/winter/ski-jumping/ski-jump-enhancement-rumours-9.7077233">CBC</a>.</p><p>Elite ski jumpers undergo full-body 3D scans for suit fittings, and temporary penile enlargements at the time of the measurements would allow male athletes to come away with bigger suits that have extra material.</p><p>The looser outfits would help them fly greater distances, with the extra material creating more lift.</p><p><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sports-and-active-living/articles/10.3389/fspor.2025.1693699/full">Frontiers</a>, a scientific journal, published research in October that said a 2 cm difference in suit size could yield an additional 5.8 meters in jump length.</p><p>No specific ski jumper has been accused of using the injections. </p><p>WADA is most closely associated with enforcing rules related to performance-enhancing drugs and doping, but it also has the power to ban substances that run afoul of the "spirit" of sport and competition.</p><p>Ski jumping has come under increased scrutiny ahead of the Milan Cortina Games after a scandal rocked the powerful and widely respected Norwegian team last year. Three team officials were handed 18-month bans in January after secretly filmed footage caught them restitching suits to make them more aerodynamic ahead of the World Championship in Trondheim, Norway.</p><p>Two athletes involved in the case - Olympic medalists Johann Andre Forfang and Marius Lindvik - accepted three-month suspensions last year and will compete at the Games in Italy.</p>

05 February 2026, Italy, Predazzo: Olympia, Olympic Winter Games Milan Cortina 2026, Ski jumping, men, normal hill, training, Marius Lindvik (Norway) in action. Photo: Daniel Karmann/dpa

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<li><a href="#Failed"><strong>Moves that fell through</strong></a></li>
</ul><h3>
<a id="Arsenal" name="Arsenal">No last-minute</a> Arsenal move 🤔</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783302/cropped_GettyImages-2212633262.jpg?ts=1746025298" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783302/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212633262.jpg?ts=1746025298 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783302/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212633262.jpg?ts=1746025298 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783302/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212633262.jpg?ts=1746025298 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783302/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212633262.jpg?ts=1746025298 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783302/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212633262.jpg?ts=1746025298 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">James Gill - Danehouse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said the Premier League leaders were "actively" looking for reinforcements Monday after losing namesake Mikel Merino to a broken foot that will require surgery and possibly rule the midfielder out for the rest of the season. The problem, of course, is that they simply ran out of time. Finding a suitable replacement on such short notice is nearly impossible. Most clubs spend weeks, if not more, working on deal structures, payment terms, and several other fine details after initially identifying a target. Doing all that in just a few hours was wildly unlikely.</p><p>Teams can still complete signings after the deadline if they submitted a deal sheet before 2 p.m. ET, but Arsenal, for better or worse, appear content with what they have. Clubs can also still sign existing free agents after the transfer window shuts, but any player still out of contract midway through the season is without a club for a reason. Those types of additions certainly wouldn't fit the bill for an Arsenal squad that has genuine aspirations of lifting multiple trophies in 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rumors of a last-ditch move for Newcastle star Sandro Tonali were briefly exciting, but those were swiftly debunked and accredited to intermediaries simply reaching out to gauge interest in the Italian rather than a credible bid being put forth.</p><p>Arsenal finished the window as the only Premier League club not to sign a first-team senior player. That'll likely make supporters tense, especially after a lack of January action was cited as one of the reasons why their title push fizzled out last season, but this version of Arteta's team is deeper and better. Take a breath, Gooners. </p><h3>
<a id="CR7" name="CR7">CR7</a> unhappy with Al-Nassr 😡</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783387/cropped_GettyImages-2212783014.jpg?ts=1746047408" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783387/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212783014.jpg?ts=1746047408 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783387/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212783014.jpg?ts=1746047408 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783387/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212783014.jpg?ts=1746047408 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783387/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212783014.jpg?ts=1746047408 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783387/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212783014.jpg?ts=1746047408 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Yasser Bakhsh / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Cristiano Ronaldo is so upset with Al-Nassr's lack of transfer activity that he's effectively going on strike for at least one match in protest, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/47805301/cristiano-ronaldo-pif-al-nassr-frustrations-unhappy-saudi-pro-league-al-riyadh">Bruno Andrade of ESPN</a>. The Portuguese star is unhappy that Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is funding moves for rival outfit Al-Hilal - one of several Saudi Pro League teams bankrolled by the PIF - and not his own side.</p><p>Al-Hilal, who are three points above Al-Nassr for top spot in the table, have made multiple moves in the transfer window, and closed out the day with a late deal for former Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema. Al-Nassr, meanwhile, have only added midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem from Iraqi club Al-Zawraa.</p><p>Could this escalate to Ronaldo demanding a move away from the Saudi Pro League? It's unlikely despite the onslaught of rumors about a potential departure last summer. Ronaldo's the crown jewel of the kingdom's massive effort to reshape the world's sporting landscape, so there would surely be huge resistance to any move from the PIF's side. As for Ronaldo, the league provides him the most uncomplicated path to his primary target of reaching 1,000 career goals. He won't jeopardize that.</p><p>If there's truly a fracture that can't be repaired, the most likely outcome would probably involve Ronaldo simply joining a different Saudi side.</p><h3>
<a id="Mateta" name="Mateta">Mateta</a>'s Milan move collapses ❌</h3><p><em>Jean-Philippe Mateta's transfer to AC Milan falls apart</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820137/cropped_GettyImages-2241465424.jpg?ts=1770044006" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820137/w220xh124_GettyImages-2241465424.jpg?ts=1770044006 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820137/w320xh180_GettyImages-2241465424.jpg?ts=1770044006 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820137/w640xh360_GettyImages-2241465424.jpg?ts=1770044006 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820137/w768xh432_GettyImages-2241465424.jpg?ts=1770044006 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820137/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2241465424.jpg?ts=1770044006 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mark Leech/Offside / Offside / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The winter's most protracted saga took one final twist. What's deadline day without an unexpected U-turn at the 11th hour?</p><p>Mateta was all set to complete a desired move to AC Milan after Crystal Palace and the Italian club agreed to a transfer worth over €30 million. Then there were rumblings about issues with a pre-existing injury, and Milan <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3469942" href="https://thescore.com/news/3469942">reportedly</a> pulled out of the deal after putting the Frenchman through rigorous medical tests that he ultimately failed. What a mess.</p><p>Mateta was seemingly close to joining Nottingham Forest earlier in the window, had a brief flirtation with Juventus, and then landed on Milan as his preferred destination. So, nobody wins in the end.</p><p>The Rossoneri have been searching - and failing - to find a suitable No. 9 since the departure of Olivier Giroud years ago, and Mateta looked like the best fit yet. The 28-year-old is a well-rounded striker who thrives on getting into dangerous scoring areas and connecting with passes into the penalty box from creative wide players. With Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic more than capable of providing that kind of service, Mateta likely would've been an immediate hit at the San Siro.</p><p>Milan look like the only team truly capable of challenging bitter city rivals Inter for the Scudetto this season, but Massimiliano Allegri's club needs more firepower to stay in the hunt.</p><h3>
<a id="Larsen" name="Larsen">Palace's</a> big overpay 🤦</h3><p><em>Crystal Palace sign Jorgen Strand Larsen for £48M</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819646/cropped_GettyImages-2257462727.jpg?ts=1769708831" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819646/w220xh124_GettyImages-2257462727.jpg?ts=1769708831 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819646/w320xh180_GettyImages-2257462727.jpg?ts=1769708831 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819646/w640xh360_GettyImages-2257462727.jpg?ts=1769708831 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819646/w768xh432_GettyImages-2257462727.jpg?ts=1769708831 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819646/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2257462727.jpg?ts=1769708831 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The winter window has been a nightmare for Crystal Palace. In addition to the exhausting ordeal outlined above involving their leading scorer, captain Marc Guehi left for Manchester City, and manager Oliver Glasner announced that he's taking off at season's end. Woof.</p><p>To top it off, they went ahead with an opulent deal for a striker who has one Premier League goal so far this season, despite the fact that Mateta now remains in the picture. And they spent £48 million on him. What are we doing here, Eagles?</p><p>Sure, there are some mitigating factors at play. Wolves are, by some distance, the worst team in England's top flight; they're still in danger of setting an unwanted record for fewest points in a single Premier League campaign. So, I'm not going to hold Strand Larsen <em>solely</em> responsible for his pitiful numbers on the campaign, considering the situation he's been in.</p><p>But this feels like a huge overpay for an old-fashioned target man who, despite providing another big, physical presence up front, is a very different striker from the one he's (in theory) taking minutes away from. The 25-year-old Norwegian offers good holdup play and takes almost all of his shots from inside the penalty area. But he lacks the mobility of Mateta and ability to make the kind of runs behind defenders that can stretch the opposition and open up space for teammates. </p><p>Perhaps they could play up front together? Chuck it in the mixer, lads.</p><h3>
<a id="Jacquet" name="Jacquet">Liverpool</a> bolster backline 💪</h3><p><em>Liverpool to sign Jeremy Jacquet for £60M </em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819890/cropped_GettyImages-2246790781.jpg?ts=1769873677" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819890/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246790781.jpg?ts=1769873677 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819890/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246790781.jpg?ts=1769873677 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819890/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246790781.jpg?ts=1769873677 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819890/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246790781.jpg?ts=1769873677 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819890/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246790781.jpg?ts=1769873677 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Daniela Porcelli / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>On the surface, this is an obvious win for a Liverpool team that's dangerously short on center-back options.</p><p>Longtime unflappable stalwart Virgil van Dijk, now 34 years old, is showing signs of decline, while Ibrahima Konate, the club's only other fit central defender right now, is an impending free agent. Things get really thin, really fast after that. Securing Jacquet, one of France's most promising and coveted defensive prospects, is a boon, especially since the Merseyside squad <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3469896" href="https://thescore.com/news/3469896">reportedly</a> beat out a direct rival in Chelsea for the 20-year-old's signature.</p><p>But the young defender won't arrive at Anfield until the summer, with Liverpool agreeing to let him remain at Rennes for the rest of the season. Future-proofing the backline is great - Jacquet could eventually form a partnership with Italian teenager Giovanni Leoni - but it doesn't address the elephant in the room, which could absolutely come back to bite a team that's battling for a Champions League berth.</p><p>Liverpool <a href="https://x.com/David_Ornstein/status/2018033629113287039">reportedly</a> explored a deal for versatile defender Lutsharel Geertruida, the Dutchman currently on loan at Sunderland from RB Leipzig, but the mechanics of getting all three clubs to agree to terms proved too complicated with time running out. That would've been precisely what Arne Slot needed on deadline day; Geertruida can provide solid cover at right- and center-back, where Liverpool's needs are most glaring. Alas.</p><h3>
<a id="Lookman" name="Lookman">Lookman</a> finally leaves 👋</h3><p><em>Atletico Madrid sign Ademola Lookman for €40M</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801251/cropped_GettyImages-2216435050.jpg?ts=1757869477" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801251/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216435050.jpg?ts=1757869477 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801251/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216435050.jpg?ts=1757869477 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801251/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216435050.jpg?ts=1757869477 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801251/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216435050.jpg?ts=1757869477 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801251/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216435050.jpg?ts=1757869477 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Lookman's career has been a wild ride ever since his spectacular hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final. </p><p>He clashed with Atalanta over apparent broken transfer promises, spent time on the outskirts of the team, came back and immediately looked like the squad's best player, and then endured a mediocre start to the current campaign. (Lookman has scored only two Serie A goals in 2025-26.)</p><p>Finally getting the type of marquee move he's long wanted, will he be reinvigorated and return to the kind of form that made him one of the game's more devastating wingers? </p><p>Atletico sure hope so.</p><p>Diego Simeone's squad lacks a winger who can consistently bamboozle defenders with one-one-one dribbling and create chances for teammates or finish on his own. At his best, Lookman offers all of that. With Julian Alvarez in a rut - the Argentine hasn't scored a league goal since November - Atleti need Lookman to provide an injection of electricity into a stagnant attack.</p><h3>
<a id="Failed" name="Failed">Ones</a> that got away 😱</h3><p>There's always a handful of deals that, for one reason or another, aren't completed in time on deadline day. Here are some of the moves we were tracking that didn't get over the line.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Club Linked</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Randal Kolo Muani</td>
<td>Juventus</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ricardo Pepi</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Curtis Jones</td>
<td>Inter Milan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Davide Frattesi</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dwight McNeil</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>Have your say on the transfer window in the comments!</em></p><ul>
<li><em>Best move of the window?</em></li>
<li><em>Which deals will age the worst?</em></li>
<li><em>Regrets your team may have?</em></li>
</ul>

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Breaking down all the major deals, rumors from transfer deadline day

Absolute scenes.  Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a dramatic 98th-minute header against...

<p>Absolute scenes.</p><p>Benfica goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/157610" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/157610">Anatoliy Trubin</a> scored a dramatic 98th-minute header against Real Madrid on Wednesday to propel his team to the Champions League knockout playoffs.</p><p>Benfica were already leading 3-2 at the time but needed one more goal to jump out of the elimination zone and into a knockout spot on goal difference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trubin, the unlikeliest source, provided the decisive tally for Jose Mourinho's team, sending the Portuguese crowd and club into raptures.</p><p><em>(Available to view in U.S. only)</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GOALKEEPER ANATOLIY TRUBIN SCORES A 98TH MINUTE GOAL AGAINST REAL MADRID TO SAVE BENFICA'S <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> SEASON WITH THE FINAL TOUCH OF THE MATCH! 😱<br><br>IMAGINE NOT LOVING FOOTBALL 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/y0thIBEQb5">pic.twitter.com/y0thIBEQb5</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2016636072755655044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><em>(Available to view in Canada only)</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SCENESSSS!! <br><br>Anatoliy Trubin goes from stopping the ball with his chest to then scoring the winner moments later 😳 <a href="https://t.co/KmJoDTbiLk">pic.twitter.com/KmJoDTbiLk</a></p>— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/DAZNFootball/status/2016634861981696286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

LISBON, PORTUGAL - JANUARY 28: Anatoliy Trubin of Benfica celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal with a header with teammates Joao Rego and Enzo Barrenechea during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid C.F. at Estadio do SL Benfica on January 28, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal.

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Mohamed Salah got back on the scoresheet in style Wednesday.  The Egyptian star registered his fi...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> got back on the scoresheet in style Wednesday.</p><p>The Egyptian star registered his first goal for Liverpool since Nov. 1, smacking home a wicked shot after a clever free-kick routine involving teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/93042" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/93042">Dominik Szoboszlai</a> in the Reds' Champions League match against Qarabag at Anfield.</p><p><em>(Available to view in U.S. only)</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mo Salah free kick BRILLIANCE 💫<br><br>The Egyptian king showing his class 👑 <a href="https://t.co/Zynsfe8OI8">pic.twitter.com/Zynsfe8OI8</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2016621510350283130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><em>(Available to view in Canada only)</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">WHAT A GOAL BY SALAH 🤯💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/pRCH8g4q5Y">pic.twitter.com/pRCH8g4q5Y</a></p>— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/DAZNFootball/status/2016623519375737271?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Salah's strike was part of a resounding 6-0 victory for Liverpool, who finished third in the league phase of the Champions League and therefore secured an automatic spot in the round of 16.</p><p>In addition to ending his goal drought, Salah also matched a Liverpool record by making his 80th Champions League appearance for the Merseyside club.</p>

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 28: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring their 3rd goalA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Liverpool FC and Qarabag FK at Anfield on January 28, 2026 in Liverpool, England.

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Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews was pleased to see his former teammate Mitch Marner r...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> was pleased to see his former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> receive some admiration from fans during the forward's return to his hometown Friday.</p><p>Marner spent nine seasons with the Maple Leafs before departing for the Vegas Golden Knights under acrimonious circumstances this past summer. Friday was his second game against his old club but his first time as a visitor in Toronto. He heard boos from visiting Leafs fans in his new home rink when the Golden Knights hosted Toronto last Thursday.</p><p>Despite being <a href="https://x.com/Sportsnet/status/2014854409730085048">booed heavily</a> by the Toronto crowd whenever he touched the puck, Marner received a warmer reception during a first-period video tribute.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It was nice that there were some cheers for him during the video tribute," Matthews told reporters Saturday, including <a href="https://x.com/AnnaNoelleDua/status/2015112464871129354?s=20">Anna Dua of Sportsnet</a>. "I think it was kinda done the right way."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Toronto Maple Leafs pay tribute to Mitch Marner in his return 💙🤍 <a href="https://t.co/K9EE3aa0vQ">pic.twitter.com/K9EE3aa0vQ</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2014858899963191807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>As for the jeers while he was on the ice helping Vegas claim a 6-3 win, Matthews said they only helped to foster a better atmosphere inside Scotiabank Arena for the contest.</p><p>"There's gonna be the boos when he's on the ice and has the puck and all that stuff," Matthews added. "I think it's pretty expected. ... I thought it was a good atmosphere. I thought it was fun."</p><p>Matthews and Marner - close friends and ex-linemates who formed one of the league's most dynamic regular-season offensive duos during their time together in Toronto - were held pointless Friday.</p><p>Both teams are back in action Sunday, with the Leafs looking to snap a three-game skid versus the Colorado Avalanche and the Knights visiting the Ottawa Senators.</p><p> </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - JANUARY 23: Mitch Marner #93 of the Vegas Golden Knights, a former Toronto Maple Leafs player, acknowledges the crowd after the Toronto Maple Leafs played a tribute video for him in the first period of their game at Scotiabank Arena on January 23, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Antoine Semenyo has chosen Manchester City.  The London-born Ghanaian international has joined Pe...

<p>Antoine Semenyo has chosen Manchester City.</p><p>The London-born Ghanaian international has joined Pep Guardiola's side on a contract until June 2031 after City struck a deal with Bournemouth that reportedly bypassed his £65-million release clause.</p><p>Manchester City will instead pay £62.5 million over a 24-month spell, while Bournemouth could earn an extra £1.5 million in bonuses and a further 10% of any profit from a future sale, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6953448/2026/01/08/man-city-semenyo-transfer-release-clause/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team in the Premier League as well as achieving amazing things in the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup," Semenyo <a href="https://www.mancity.com/news/mens/antoine-semenyo-transfer-manchester-city-bournemouth-63903542">said</a> upon his unveiling. </p><p>"I have so much scope for improvement, so to be at this club, at this stage of my career, is perfect for me ... My best football is yet to come, I am sure of that. And City are in a great position - still involved in four competitions. I really feel I can help them have a strong second half of the season."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">City's number 4️⃣2️⃣ <a href="https://t.co/EF5QX7oFQq">pic.twitter.com/EF5QX7oFQq</a></p>— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/2009555350383415492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bournemouth convinced City to let Semenyo feature in three more matches for the club before his transfer, Ornstein adds. The 26-year-old's final act for the Cherries was an excellent 95th-minute winner against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday.</p><p>"He's a big miss for us, he's a player that you cannot replace," Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola said after the 3-2 win, as quoted by <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/antoine-semenyo-man-city-transfer-news-latest-b2896933.html">The Independent's Will Castle</a>. "He's an incredible player."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Simply incredible. <a href="https://t.co/BgyzpjlaNn">pic.twitter.com/BgyzpjlaNn</a></p>— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) <a href="https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/2009052433868374258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham were all tracking the dynamic winger prior to the January transfer window, according to an earlier report by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6915594/2025/12/23/antoine-semenyo-manchester-city-transfer/">Ornstein</a>. However, Semenyo picked Manchester City because he wanted to work with Guardiola, transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2008668184182964699">Fabrizio Romano</a> reported Tuesday.</p><p>Semenyo was also linked with Manchester United.</p><p>The former Bristol City prospect has been one of the Premier League's standout attackers this season. He remains Bournemouth's leading scorer in England's top flight with 10 goals. Only two players - Manchester City's Erling Haaland and Brentford's Igor Thiago - have scored more this term.</p><p>Semenyo has also provided three assists, and should add another credible threat to a side that relies heavily on Haaland for goals. The prolific Norwegian has a league-leading 20 tallies on the campaign, but nobody else has more than seven for City. Only Haaland has taken more non-penalty shots than Semenyo since the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season.</p><p>Semenyo should immediately push for regular starts at City, especially while Oscar Bobb and Savinho are in the treatment room and Omar Marmoush is with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.</p><p>Manchester City sit second in the Premier League after 21 matches, six points behind leaders Arsenal.</p>

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 07: Antoine Semenyo of AFC Bournemouth acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur at Vitality Stadium on January 07, 2026 in Bournemouth, England.

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Man City win Semenyo race with reported £62.5M transfer

Let the wheeling and dealing begin.   With the January transfer window now open, we're going arou...

<p><em>Let the wheeling and dealing begin. </em></p><p><em>With the January transfer window now open, we're going around the globe to present 50 players who could be on the move before deadline day on Feb. 2.</em></p><p>👉 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3339338" href="https://thescore.com/news/3339338">Latest transfer news and rumors</a></strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#EPL">🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</a> | <a href="#Liga">🇪🇸</a> | <a href="#Serie%20A">🇮🇹</a> | <a href="#Bundesliga">🇩🇪</a> | <a href="#Ligue%201">🇫🇷</a> | <a href="#Global">🌎</a></p><p><em>Note: Player values provided by <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.com/">transfermarkt.</a></em></p><h3>
<a id="EPL" name="EPL">Premier League</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zVdH2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zVdH2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1440" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Coming off a record-breaking summer window in which they combined to spend over £3 billion on new signings, Premier League clubs are once again poised to spearhead the shopping spree. </p><p>A collection of players listed are desperate for more playing time, though some have tougher decisions than others. <strong>Jesus</strong> and <strong>Nwaneri</strong>, for example, could certainly earn more minutes elsewhere, but are they willing to leave what could be a title-winning Arsenal side to find them?</p><p>The Chelsea triumvirate of <strong>Disasi</strong>, <strong>George</strong>, and <strong>Sterling</strong> has combined for exactly zero Premier League starts this season, with the teenager the only one to actually get on the pitch at all. They're desperate for a change of scenery and fresh start in 2026.</p><p><strong>Guehi</strong>, one of several impending free agents on this list who's now able to speak with other teams about a pre-contract agreement, came agonizingly close to joining Liverpool in the summer - he literally started undergoing a medical before the deal collapsed on deadline day. Crystal Palace could decide to cash in now instead of losing their captain for nothing in six months.</p><p>As always, Manchester will be a focal point. Pep Guardiola's title contenders are reportedly on the verge of landing <strong>Semenyo</strong>, the breakout Bournemouth forward who could end up being the most expensive signing of the entire window. His arrival would likely trigger multiple dominoes, with <strong>Bobb</strong> and <strong>Marmoush</strong> being eyed by watchful clubs hoping to pounce the second that Semenyo's deal is finalized. </p><p>The Red Devils, meanwhile, will likely focus more on outgoings, with <strong>Mainoo</strong>'s future one of the biggest question marks. The 20-year-old's once ascendant career is in danger of stalling, and his departure has felt inevitable for months. <strong>Fernandes </strong>has openly admitted that Manchester United were gently trying to guide him out the door in the summer. Detrimental as it may be in the immediate term, they could certainly sell their captain if a suitable offer arrives, especially if it helps the club compile the funds needed to acquire <strong>Baleba</strong> or <strong>Anderson </strong>(now or in the summer).</p><p>And then there's Liverpool. The sputtering reigning champions have endured a miserable season, and it could be punctuated by the departure of a club legend in <strong>Salah</strong> after his infamous December outburst.</p><h3>
<a id="Liga" name="Liga">La Liga</a> 🇪🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3QRv5" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3QRv5/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="536" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Atletico Madrid are lagging behind their two illustrious La Liga rivals, and could look to shake things up once again after a busy and opulent summer. One of those summer additions, <strong>Raspadori</strong>, has failed to make much impact in the Spanish capital, starting just one league match thus far. <strong>Gallagher</strong>, despite being a prototypical Diego Simeone player, has fallen down the pecking order in midfield and could return to England.</p><p><strong>Ter Stegen</strong> needs minutes to convince Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann that he's recovered from his recent injuries and can challenge for the starting job at the World Cup. He won't get that opportunity if he remains at Barcelona, where Joan Garcia is the clear No. 1 netminder.</p><p><strong>Vinicius</strong> and <strong>Rodrygo</strong>, the exciting Brazilians who once appeared untouchable at Real Madrid as anchors of the side playing on opposite wings, have both been frustrated with their roles under Xabi Alonso. The former remains locked in tense contract negotiations with the club, while the latter has found himself on the bench more often than not. Either one actually leaving in January would be a surprise - players of that quality and pedigree don't often move during the season - but it's certainly not impossible. </p><h3>
<a id="Serie A" name="Serie%20A">Serie A</a> 🇮🇹</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5iB56" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5iB56/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="397" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The clubs highlighted above all believe they have a genuine chance to win the Scudetto this season; Italy's top five teams are separated by just six points right now. That has the potential to incite action as they each try to bolster their respective squads to pursue a title. But, this being Serie A, financial constraints don't allow for frivolous spending. New signings need to be offset by sales to keep the books balanced.</p><p><strong>Nkunku</strong>'s impact has been modest for AC Milan, while <strong>Frattesi</strong> has mostly been a non-factor for Inter since Cristian Chivu's appointment as manager. <strong>Dovbyk</strong> had an encouraging first season in the Italian capital, but he's been displaced up front by loanee Evan Ferguson.</p><p><strong>Vlahovic</strong>, one of the highest-paid players in the league, is a free agent after the season and has therefore been at the forefront of transfer rumors for months. Juventus would've gladly parted with him this past summer, but the sizable offer they wanted for the Serbian striker never materialized. He's currently sidelined with a groin injury, which complicates matters, but he could be available at a decent discount this month.</p><h3>
<a id="Bundesliga" name="Bundesliga">Bundesliga</a> 🇩🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-NbZEv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/NbZEv/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="447" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Bayern Munich dropped roughly €30 million to sign <strong>Boey</strong> in January 2024, but he's been usurped as the starting right-back by Konrad Laimer - who's a natural midfielder - and will absolutely be moved if a good offer comes in.</p><p><strong>Schlotterbeck</strong> is one of the most intriguing players to watch in January. Borussia Dortmund's best center-back by some distance, his contract expires in 18 months, which puts BVB in a tricky situation. They haven't made progress on an extension, so it might behoove the club to sell him at peak value before a free transfer starts becoming a real possibility. Barcelona and Bayern Munich are both interested in the German international.</p><p><strong>Diomande</strong> and <strong>El Mala</strong> are two rising stars taking the Bundesliga by storm. RB Leipzig have all the negotiating power when it comes to the prodigious Ivorian, and their spectacular track record with sales suggests they will hold out until the summer, when they can instigate a proper months-long bidding war for their next standout prospect.</p><h3>
<a id="Ligue 1" name="Ligue%201">Ligue 1</a> 🇫🇷</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-MC6Pi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/MC6Pi/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="289" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Ligue 1 continues to be one of the sport's most popular hunting grounds for European heavyweights seeking burgeoning talent. <strong>Bouaddi</strong> and <strong>Jacquet</strong>, two of the latest phenoms coming through France's vaunted pipeline, won't be at their respective clubs, Lille and Rennes, too much longer. Bouaddi, in particular, is reportedly a target for Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.</p><p>Speaking of PSG, <strong>Ramos</strong> continues to be linked with a number of European clubs seeking more firepower up front. Despite not being a first-choice option for Luis Enrique, the Portuguese striker is actually PSG's leading scorer across all competitions this season, providing a big boost either off the bench or while several teammates have missed time due to injury.</p><h3>
<a id="Global" name="Global">Around the world</a> 🌎</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ox7H6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ox7H6/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="501" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>A pair of Portuguese internationals are expected to leave Saudi side Al-Hilal at some point over the next month. Inter are reportedly working hard to beat out Barcelona and bring <strong>Cancelo</strong> back to the San Siro, while <strong>Neves</strong> still has many admirers in Europe and is viewed as an affordable option who can raise the ceiling for several squads at a fraction of the cost of many peers.</p><p>Watch out for <strong>Smit</strong>, the creative ball-carrying midfielder who continues to shine at AZ Alkmaar. The teenager has caught the attention of Real Madrid, and his price tag only seems to increase with each passing match.</p><p><strong>Pepi</strong>, who has eyes on being the starting No. 9 for the United States at the World Cup, has a potentially career-altering choice to make this month. He's flourished at PSV, but could improve his standing in Mauricio Pochettino's mind if he moves to a stronger league and continues to find the net; Fulham reportedly had a €30-million bid rejected days ago. Of course, if Pepi does make a step up and then struggles, his World Cup chances could take a hit.</p><p>This being the final transfer window before the 2026 World Cup, countless players around the world are facing the exact same dilemma.</p><p>👉 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3339338" href="https://thescore.com/news/3339338">Latest transfer news and rumors</a></strong></p>

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Transfer big board: 50 players who could move in January window

Kyle Whittingham is bringing a familiar face with him to Ann Arbor.  Michigan's new head football...

<p>Kyle Whittingham is bringing a familiar face with him to Ann Arbor.</p><p>Michigan's new head football coach said Thursday that Utah offensive coordinator Jason Beck is leaving the Utes to reunite with him as the Wolverines' play-caller.</p><p>The move hasn't been officially announced by either program, but Whittingham confirmed Beck's switch during an appearance on ESPN's <a href="https://x.com/CollegeGameDay/status/2006756205566242996">College GameDay</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"That's huge for us," the ex-Utah head coach said of Beck's impending arrival.</p><p>"Jason did such a great job for us (at Utah) this past season. ... He's a guy that's moved the football and scored points everywhere he's been. It's going to be a big plus for us having him there," Whittingham continued.</p><p>Whittingham added that "a bunch" of other staff members from Utah will also join the Wolverines ahead of the 2026 season.</p><p>Beck isn't the only coordinator addition Michigan is finalizing. BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill agreed to be part of the Wolverines' staff in the same role, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2006777836959576626?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>BYU allowed 19.1 points per game in 2025, good for 21st in the nation. Hill has been the Cougars' defensive coordinator since 2022.</p><p>Utah ranked fifth in the nation in scoring in 2025, Beck's lone season running the offense under Whittingham. The Utes averaged 41.3 points per game while dominating on the ground, ranking No. 1 in yards per rushing attempt and No. 2 in rushing yards per contest.</p><p>Prior to joining Utah, the 45-year-old Beck served as offensive coordinator at New Mexico and Syracuse.</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 28: Kyle Whittingham speaks at a news conference introducing him as the new Michigan Wolverines head football coach at the Hyatt Regency Orlando on December 28, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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Whittingham says Utah OC Beck is joining him at Michigan

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the starting lineup for Saturday's ga...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> returned to the starting lineup for Saturday's game against the Chicago Bulls after missing the last eight contests with a right calf strain.</p><p>The two-time MVP cleared a pregame routine that was overseen by the team's training staff.</p><p>Antetokounmpo sustained the calf injury on Dec. 3. Milwaukee has gone 2-6 during his absence, a skid that's dropped the team to 11th in the Eastern Conference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The nine-time All-Star has featured in only 17 of the Bucks' 31 games this season. He's been dominant when on the floor, averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting 64% from the field.</p><p>Milwaukee is 10-7 with him in the lineup.</p><p>Prior to the calf injury, Antetokounmpo missed additional time earlier this year because of a left adductor strain.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 11: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during a timeout during the first half against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum on December 11, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Giannis starts vs. Bulls after 8-game absence

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Gianluca Nesci

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Daniel Rouse

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