"5 Must-Read Football Stories of the Week: Transfers, Trophies, and Controversy"

Football fans, get ready for the latest round-up of the top stories from the beautiful game. From transfers and tactics to trophies and scandals, here are the top five football stories making headlines this week:

1: Manchester United makes shock move for Cristiano Ronaldo 

It's the transfer rumor that has sent shockwaves through the football world: Manchester United is reportedly in talks to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford. The 36-year-old Portuguese superstar left United for Real Madrid in 2009, but could now be set for a sensational return to the club where he won three Premier League titles and the Champions League.

2: Barcelona in crisis as Messi demands immediate exit 

Barcelona is in turmoil after star player Lionel Messi told the club he wants to leave immediately. The 33-year-old Argentine, who has spent his entire career at Barcelona, sent shockwaves through the football world when he informed the club of his desire to leave. The situation has sparked a battle for his signature, with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain among the clubs reportedly interested in signing him.

3: Bayern Munich win the Champions League for the sixth time 

Bayern Munich added another trophy to their impressive collection as they beat Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the Champions League final. It was a closely contested match, but Bayern's clinical finishing and solid defense proved too much for PSG. The win marks Bayern's sixth Champions League title, cementing their status as one of the greatest teams in European football history.

4: Controversy as VAR penalty decision costs Manchester City in FA Cup final 

The FA Cup final between Manchester City and Leicester City was marred by controversy as a late VAR penalty decision went against the Citizens. Manchester City was trailing 1-0 in the closing stages of the match when they were awarded a penalty, only for the decision to be overturned by VAR after a lengthy review. Leicester went on to win the match 1-0, sparking outrage from Manchester City players and fans.

5: Arsenal appoints former player Mikel Arteta as head coach 

Arsenal has appointed former player Mikel Arteta as their new head coach, following the departure of Unai Emery. Arteta, who spent five years at the club as a player, has previously worked as an assistant coach at Manchester City. He inherits an Arsenal team that has struggled for form in recent years but will be hoping to turn things around and bring success back to the club.