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Ronaldo hails Saudi league

Cristiano Ronaldo believes the Saudi Pro League could become one of the top five competitions in the world.

Ronaldo, 38, joined Al-Nassr in January and his profile has elevated the division to new heights.

The Portuguese icon has experience in three of the top five leagues in Europe, having previously played in the Premier League, LaLiga and Serie A.

And the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star believes the quality of the Saudi competition can hit similar heights in the coming years.

He said: "We are much better and the Saudi league is getting better and the next year will be even better.

"Step-by-step I think this league will be among the top five leagues in the world but they need time, players and infrastructure.

"But I believe this country has amazing potential. They have amazing people and the league will be great in my opinion."

Reina set for 1,000th game

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is set to play in his 1,000th competitive game tonight as Villarreal take on Cadiz in La Liga.

The 40-year-old veteran spent eight seasons at Anfield before moving on to Napoli, Bayern Munich and Aston Villa and holds the record for the highest clean-sheet percentage in Premier League history.

Ahead of the match, the Spaniard said: "I feel very thankful and very lucky because I love what I do. That's the only secret, dedication, being as professional as I can.

"I still have the feelings in your tummy before the games. That lovely fear of making mistakes still, feeling that responsibility.

"It's a dream ending for me and my family because my wife also has a big family here and we are really at home. I want to keep going as long as they want me.

"As long as I am OK to be helpful with the team, I'll be around. The club knows.

"Whenever they decide I'm no longer any help for the club, on the field at least, I will hang up the gloves because [it's] clearly going to be my last club."

Alba's end

Barcelona have decided to terminate defender Jordi Alba's contract at the end of the season, ending his stay at the Camp Nou one year early.

Alba, 34, has been at the Catalan club for over a decade and has made over 450 appearances across all competitions.

The left-back has enjoyed a successful time in Spain, winning six La Liga titles and one Champions League.

A club statement confirmed his departure, saying: "Barcelona and the defender have reached an agreement to terminate the latter's contract binding him to the club until the end of the 2023-24 season.

"Barcelona would like to publicly express its gratitude to Alba for his professionalism, commitment and dedication, and his ever-positive and friendly relationship with all members of the Barca family.

"The club wishes him every fortune in the future. Barca will always be a home for you, Jordi."

Transfer window dates confirmed

The Premier League have announced the opening and closing dates for the next two transfer windows.

Clubs will be able to sign players from June 14 and have until September 1 to complete any deals before the window slams shut this summer.

The winter window will operate as usual, opening on January 1, 2024, and closing on February 1. 

Both windows will shut at 11pm as clubs inevitably race to get last-minute signings over the line.

Kirby contract extended

Chelsea have extended Fran Kirby's contract for another year.

The Blues are on the verge of completing a successive FA Cup and Women's Super League double but are already looking ahead to next season.

Kirby, 29, has been at the club since 2015 and has scored 110 goals in 175 appearances, winning 13 trophies along the way.

She was also the first female recipient of the FWA Player of the Year award in 2018 and has added several personal accolades to her cabinet during her eight-year stint in West London.

This term, the England forward has been marred by injury but has still managed to score six times in eight WSL appearances.

The Lioness has been ruled out of the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand but will focus on getting back to full fitness for the 2023-24 campaign.

Jose slams Juve punishment

Jose Mourinho is furious with the timing of Juventus' fresh points deduction.

The Roma boss has slammed the decision to dock the Old Lady 10 points with just two Serie A games to play, claiming it is unfair on all parties.

He said: "It's a joke to know this with two games remaining, for us and everyone, even for Juventus.

"Our approach would have been different if we had known before the games with Monza and Bologna.

"I am sorry for [Max] Allegri and his players. But at the league level, I have to say that it changes things a little.

"I am sorry for professionals who work like me because they pay for errors that directors and maybe the club did."

Italian excellence

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has hailed Roberto De Zerbi after the Seagulls secured European football for the first time.

The Italian took over from Graham Potter last September and has won plaudits for his attacking style of play.

Barber said: "He is incredibly hard-working, a really decent man, who is a good communicator and great motivator.

"He has such attention to detail, works long hours and is always out on the training field. The players absolutely love him.

"His type of football has converted neutrals to become Brighton fans and we have certainly enjoyed it. We hope we will be working with him for some time to come.

"But we have to be realistic. The better we play, the more interest there is in us and in our people so we have to plan for that and be ready for it."