🥐 Chaos, sexism, thrashings... 5️⃣ stories to start Friday | OneFootball

This Friday’s news comes packed with stories that shake the foundations of the beautiful game.

As the domestic leagues get back into their usual rhythm after the international break, the spotlight inevitably shifts to the boardrooms and the behavior of the biggest stars, creating a landscape where institutional matters and off-field issues demand as much attention as the ball itself.

Here are the five key stories that will shape the conversation in the coming hours so you can start the day fully informed.

Earthquake in Italian football: Gravina and Buffon resign

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has been blown apart following the official announcement of the departure of its two main pillars. Gabriele Gravina, until now president, and Gianluigi Buffon, head of delegation for the national team, have left their posts with immediate effect. This power vacuum plunges Italian football into an unprecedented institutional crisis just before the start of the Nations League.

Neymar sparks sexist controversy against a female referee

Brazilian star Neymar Jr. is once again at the center of criticism for his off-field behavior. After a match in the Brasileirao, the forward attacked the referee with derogatory comments, even saying that "maybe she’s on her period" to justify her decisions. His words have set social media ablaze and triggered unanimous condemnation in Brazil, where people are calling for exemplary sanctions.

LaLiga returns with drama in Vallecas

After the international break, LaLiga EA Sports resumes tonight with a clash between two sides in desperate need of points. Although the biggest matches are tomorrow, today’s action begins with Rayo Vallecano hosting Elche. Vallecas will set the tone at the start of a Matchday 30 that promises high drama in the battle for survival, with both teams under pressure to get points on the board.

Spain Women learn their new squad today

National team coach Sonia Bermúdez will speak today at 11:30 to announce Spain’s call-ups. La Roja face major tests against England and Ukraine in qualifying for the 2027 World Cup. There is huge anticipation to see whether there will be any surprises in the squad that currently dominates women’s football globally after its recent successes.

Barça Women smash Champions League record

FC Barcelona have booked their place in the Women’s Champions League semifinals after a historic display. The Blaugrana thrashed Real Madrid 6-0 at a Spotify Camp Nou fully behind its stars. With this result, the Catalan side confirm their status as overwhelming favorites in Europe and now await their opponent for the penultimate round, showing that their dominance knows no limits.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 ALBERTO PIZZOLI - AFP or licensors