Arsenal thump Atletico in Champions League, PSG and Barcelona in routs too

In an exciting turn of events, Marcus Rashford has expressed his desire to stay with Barcelona, while Rafael Benítez has taken the helm at Panathinaikos. Additionally, Nottingham Forest broke their winless streak with a solid 2-0 victory over Porto, marking their first clean sheet in 21 games. This news is significant as it highlights key player commitments and managerial changes that could shape the future of these clubs, especially with the Premier League weekend approaching.

This week's sports quiz covers a range of exciting topics including Arsenal's latest matches, the Ashes cricket series, and insights into Ange Postecoglou's coaching strategies. It's a great way to test your knowledge on current events in football, rugby, gymnastics, boxing, and motor sports. Engaging with these quizzes not only keeps fans informed but also adds a fun twist to following their favorite sports.

This week's newsletter highlights the troubling trend of skyrocketing train prices compared to flights, which poses significant social, financial, and environmental challenges. As travelers are forced to choose between expensive rail options and cheaper flights, the environmental impact of increased air travel becomes a pressing concern. This situation matters because it not only affects individual budgets but also has broader implications for sustainable travel and climate change.

This week's Champions League matches were nothing short of thrilling, with a staggering 71 goals scored over just two nights. Barcelona and Bayern Munich showcased their young talents, contributing to the excitement as they both secured victories ahead of the highly anticipated El Clásico against Real Madrid. The matches highlighted the effectiveness of Barcelona's youth system and the competitive nature of the tournament, making it a significant moment for fans and teams alike.

The 2026 Tour de France has exciting news for cycling fans, unveiling a route that includes a double stage finish at the iconic Alpe d'Huez for the men's race and a debut for the women's race at Mont Ventoux. Starting in Barcelona on July 4 for men and Lausanne on August 1 for women, this year's event promises thrilling climbs and historic moments, especially with the women's race featuring the challenging Ventoux for the first time. This development not only highlights the growing prominence of women's cycling but also sets the stage for an unforgettable competition.

The investigation into the sudden death of Isak Andic, the founder of the clothing brand Mango, continues as Spanish police confirmed on Friday. Andic tragically passed away last year while hiking near Barcelona, and reports suggest that his son is now considered a suspect in the case. This ongoing investigation is significant as it raises questions about the circumstances surrounding Andic's death and the implications for his family and the brand.

Arsenal is making headlines as they aim to break Chelsea's long-standing record of conceding just 15 goals in a Premier League season. This achievement would not only highlight Arsenal's defensive prowess but also mark a significant milestone in the club's history. As sports science and player performance continue to evolve, breaking such a formidable record would be a testament to Arsenal's growth and ambition in the league.

The investigation into the sudden death of Isak Andic, the founder of the Mango clothing empire, is still ongoing as Spanish police have identified his son, Jonathan, as a suspect. This tragic incident, which occurred during a hike in the Montserrat mountains near Barcelona, raises serious questions about the circumstances surrounding Andic's fall. The case is significant not only for the family but also for the fashion industry, as it highlights the complexities and potential controversies that can arise from personal tragedies.

In an exciting turn of events, Marcus Rashford has expressed his desire to stay with Barcelona, while Rafael Benítez has taken the helm at Panathinaikos. Additionally, Nottingham Forest broke their winless streak with a solid 2-0 victory over Porto, marking their first clean sheet in 21 games. This news is significant as it highlights key player commitments and managerial changes that could shape the future of these clubs, especially with the Premier League weekend approaching.

Ireland is gearing up for a significant presidential election, with polls indicating a strong lead for Catherine Connolly, a leftwing independent candidate. This election is particularly important as it reflects the shifting political landscape in Ireland, especially among younger voters who resonate with Connolly's progressive ideas. However, concerns about low voter turnout and the potential for spoilt ballots could impact the overall outcome, making it crucial for citizens to participate.

The tragic death of the former Lostprophets singer, who was serving time for paedophilia, has been confirmed as a result of an attack in prison on October 11. This incident raises serious concerns about the safety and conditions within correctional facilities, especially for high-profile inmates. It highlights the ongoing issues surrounding violence in prisons and the challenges of managing inmates with notorious backgrounds.

Baroness D'Souza has been suspended for attempting to influence the Metropolitan Police chief, Sir Mark Rowley, regarding speeding fines, according to a report from the House of Lords. This incident raises concerns about the integrity of the legislative process and the potential for undue influence in law enforcement matters, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in public office.

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is ramping up his rhetoric against the European Union, accusing it of trying to impose a 'puppet' government in Hungary. This comes as he faces increasing pressure from a pro-EU opposition party ahead of next year's elections. Orbán's comments, made during a rally in Budapest commemorating the 1956 revolution, frame the upcoming election as a choice between peace and conflict, particularly in relation to the war in Ukraine. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing divide in Hungarian politics and the challenges Orbán faces from opposition forces.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that the aid situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, even after a ceasefire was established. Despite hopes for improvement, the flow of aid has not significantly increased, leaving the 2.7 million Palestinians in dire need. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, drawing attention to the challenges faced by those affected and the complexities of international law regarding settlements.