Abbie Meehan

Wayne Rooney is set to return to BBC's Match of the Day for the 2026/27 Premier League season after losing significant weight and undergoing surgery to repair a nose broken during his playing career. He is also co-hosting Stick to United with Wayne Rooney alongside Mark Goldbridge under Gary Neville's Overlap network, with Disney+ scheduled to distribute the programme. Rooney will initially join Mark Chapman and Alan Shearer to analyse the opening Premier League fixtures.

The BBC has announced four new Match of the Day pundits for the 2026/27 Premier League season: Ashley Young, Robbie Keane, Toby Alderweireld and Thomas Frank. Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney will return, alongside Joe Hart, Micah Richards, Ellen White, Steph Houghton, Danny Murphy and Ashley Williams. Martin Keown, Dion Dublin, Shay Given, Stephen Warnock, Nedum Onuoha and Theo Walcott were omitted from the initial list, although the BBC is understood to remain in contract negotiations with them and expects some to continue contributing. The BBC rejected reports of disagreements with head of sport Alex Kay-Jelski and will also launch a fan-focused programme featuring supporters from every Premier League club.

Curtis Jones is reportedly nearing a £30 million move from Liverpool to Inter Milan despite Andoni Iraola's desire to retain him. The article argues that Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton would be Liverpool's ideal replacement, although Palace have placed a £78 million valuation on the 22-year-old, who is also attracting interest from Real Madrid, Manchester United and Chelsea. Wharton's defensive ability, passing and potential would strengthen Liverpool's midfield while allowing Ryan Gravenberch to play further forward alongside Dominik Szoboszlai.

Manchester United are reportedly monitoring Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, who is valued at around £85 million and has a contract running until 2029. Manager Michael Carrick is also said to retain long-term interest in Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae, with injuries to Leny Yoro and Lisandro Martínez and Harry Maguire’s age contributing to the club’s defensive concerns. Former United midfielder Paul Scholes has urged the club to sign Wharton, calling him the ideal replacement target after Sandro Tonali became unavailable.

Rory McIlroy expects to retain his PGA Tour membership despite falling one event short of the 15-tournament minimum. He has held productive discussions with commissioner Brian Rolapp and believes they can agree on a way to satisfy the obligation after the FedEx St. Jude Championship, BMW Championship and Tour Championship. Separately, reports suggest Jon Rahm may leave LIV Golf, with the DP World Tour reportedly optimistic about his return. LIV is facing further uncertainty after the Saudi Public Investment Fund announced that it will withdraw its backing, while the league has cancelled its planned Grand Slam Finale in Michigan.

Manchester United have completed six summer signings, including Andrey Santos, Karl Darlow and Youri Tielemans, while 14 players have departed through transfers, loans or expiring contracts. Rasmus Hojlund has completed a permanent move to Napoli after the club qualified for the Champions League. Michael Carrick's side is still pursuing up to three additions, with Louis Page, Jorge Salinas, Lewis Hall, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Manu Kone and Lamine Camara among the reported targets. Toby Collyer, Harry Amass, Joshua Zirkzee and Ethan Wheatley could also leave, potentially taking the club's total outgoing business even higher before the Premier League season begins.

Bradley Barcola has reportedly agreed personal terms with Liverpool, but the club still needs to negotiate with Paris Saint-Germain over the winger’s £145 million valuation. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has identified a winger as a clear priority, while other wide targets include Ibrahim Mbaye, Yankuba Minteh and Rayan. Alexis Mac Allister has also returned to Liverpool’s training centre after Argentina’s post-World Cup break as the club prepares for the new Premier League season.

David Bentley says he regretted leaving Arsenal only six months into a five-year contract because he did not trust Arsene Wenger's plans for him. The former midfielder, who came through Arsenal's academy and debuted alongside Cesc Fabregas, left for Blackburn in 2006 after a loan at Norwich City. Blackburn became the high point of his career, but his subsequent move to Tottenham led to several loan spells before he retired at 29. Bentley's comments contrast his missed opportunity at Arsenal with the club's recent Premier League success under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal are reportedly looking beyond Vinicius Jr after the Brazilian winger agreed a new Real Madrid contract, with Inter Milan striker Pio Esposito emerging as a potential target valued privately at £73 million. Manchester United are also interested, while Inter have publicly called the 21-year-old untouchable. Arsenal are additionally pursuing Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, with Villa reportedly increasingly worried that he could leave despite Arsenal's initial bid falling well below the club's £60 million valuation. Liverpool could also enter the race because of their defensive injury issues.

Manchester United are considering further attacking changes as Marcus Rashford's future remains uncertain and Joshua Zirkzee is linked with a loan move to Juventus. The speculative lineup proposes free agent Dusan Vlahovic as competition for Benjamin Sesko and Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye as Rashford's potential replacement. Bryan Mbeumo, Amad and Bruno Fernandes would complete the suggested attack, while manager Michael Carrick continues reshaping the squad after significant summer spending and wage reductions.

Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Chelsea could give five previously marginalised players—Mykhailo Mudryk, Mike Penders, Axel Disasi, Aaron Anselmino and Liam Delap—a route back into first-team contention. Mudryk is available again after successfully challenging a four-year doping ban, while goalkeeper Penders returns after an impressive loan spell at Strasbourg. Disasi and Anselmino may benefit from anticipated departures among Chelsea’s centre-backs, although Disasi remains linked with West Ham. Delap, whose debut season was disrupted by injuries and inconsistent performances, has received public encouragement from Alonso during pre-season.

Chris Smalling says Sir Alex Ferguson persuaded him to reject a move to boyhood club Arsenal and join Manchester United after promising he would receive first-team opportunities. United paid Fulham an initial fee of about £8 million, rising to £12 million, and Smalling went on to make 323 appearances, win two Premier League titles and the Europa League, and later play for Roma and Al-Fayha.

Tottenham have spent £237 million and added six players, including Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Martin Dúbravka, but Roberto De Zerbi wants further reinforcements. Marcus Rashford is identified as a potential signing if Manchester United’s desire to reduce his £350,000-a-week salary creates an opening, although Arsenal and Chelsea are also monitoring him. Manchester City winger Savinho is presented as Tottenham’s preferred attacking target, while Eli Junior Kroupi and Franco Mastantuono are alternative options. Tottenham are also expected to move on fringe players, with West Ham interested in Manor Solomon, Cristian Romero linked with multiple major clubs, and Porto pursuing Souza.

Ajla Tomljanovic has withdrawn from the US Open after a difficult season affected by minor injuries, ending her 2026 campaign early and focusing on preparation for 2027. Ella Seidel will take her place in the main draw. Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz is recovering from a recurring wrist injury and generating excitement ahead of his expected return at Flushing Meadows, with fans also reacting enthusiastically to his new cornrow hairstyle. Tomljanovic previously defeated Serena Williams at the 2022 US Open in what became Williams’s final match before her initial retirement.

Arsenal are pursuing Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, who is in the final year of his contract and reportedly wants a salary matching Kylian Mbappe's. Contract negotiations have stalled, and he is not expected to return to Real Madrid training immediately, increasing speculation about a move. Arsenal would likely need to break their transfer and wage records to sign him. Separately, Arsenal value Fabio Vieira at at least £15 million, while Hamburg are prepared to offer about £8.5 million; Hamburg chief Eric Huwer said the club will pursue another target if an agreement cannot be reached.

Manchester United are pursuing further midfield reinforcements ahead of the new Premier League season. Roma midfielder Manu Koné has reportedly agreed personal terms with United, which plan to bid around £42.7 million, although Roma could seek up to £51.2 million if competition from Chelsea and Al-Ahli develops. Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is also keen on a move to Old Trafford, with his estimated fee falling from £100 million to about £70 million. Michael Carrick has already welcomed several new players as United prepare for their European pre-season fixtures.

Spanish media offer differing assessments of a possible Vinicius Jr move from Real Madrid to Arsenal. Sport reports that Real Madrid would accept nothing below £136 million (€160 million), potentially including add-ons, while Marca says Vinicius is seeking wages of at least £25 million per season, complicating renewal talks. Cadena SER views Real Madrid’s pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as a possible sign that Vinicius could leave, although both players could theoretically remain at the club. Talks between Arsenal and Real Madrid have not yet begun.

Hollie Shearer, daughter of former Newcastle and England football star Alan Shearer, married England rugby player Joe Marchant in Winchester. The couple, who became engaged in November 2024 after dating for two years, celebrated at the Royal Oak after Shearer returned from co-commentary duties at the World Cup final. Wedding and hen-party photographs were shared on Instagram, with Marchant having previously moved to France after signing for Stade Français.

Eric Cantona said Sir Alex Ferguson was close to selling or dismissing him from Manchester United because of his unpredictable behaviour, but Ferguson's wife Cathy persuaded him to keep the striker. Cantona also credited former Auxerre coach Guy Roux with advising Ferguson to show him affection and support. The account follows Cantona's infamous 1995 Selhurst Park confrontation, which led to an eight-month football ban, a fine, community service and the loss of his France captaincy. Despite the controversy, Cantona went on to win four Premier League titles and two FA Cups during five successful years at Manchester United.

Michael Carrick has overseen a major Manchester United squad overhaul, approving the exits of five senior players while securing several new signings, including Andrey Santos, Karl Darlow and Youri Tielemans. Winger Tynan Thompson has also joined, and United continue to pursue Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, who has rejected a new contract and is considered a primary target amid competition from Arsenal and Chelsea.

Arsenal aims to raise at least £90 million through potential player sales as Mikel Arteta seeks to reshape the squad after recent signings. Fees generated from the departures of Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior are already secured, while Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White and Christian Norgaard are among four further players who could be sold. Interest from clubs including AC Milan, Manchester United, Newcastle, Bayern Munich, Everton and Crystal Palace positions Arsenal to increase their transfer budget as they prepare for additional arrivals.

Manchester United’s history of missed transfer opportunities is revisited through high-profile cases involving Ronaldinho, John Obi Mikel, Toni Kroos, Paulo Dybala and Alan Shearer. Each deal ultimately fell apart due to competing club offers, player decisions or managerial changes, with several of the players going on to win major honours elsewhere. The piece highlights current efforts under Michael Carrick to avoid similar setbacks in the ongoing transfer window.

Rory McIlroy sharply criticised Bryson DeChambeau for stepping down grass behind his ball at The Open, a rule breach that earned DeChambeau a two‑shot penalty and dropped him down the leaderboard. DeChambeau claimed he was unaware of McIlroy’s remarks and refused to discuss the incident publicly, though he argued with officials, delayed confirming his participation and was seen in a tense exchange with R&A CEO Mark Darbon. The penalty and subsequent disputes overshadowed his performance heading into the final round, where he sits four shots behind leader Sam Burns.

Pep Guardiola has indicated privately that he is open to managing England after previously declining the role in 2024. His departure from Manchester City and England’s World Cup semi-final loss have revived discussions about replacing Thomas Tuchel, who faces criticism but intends to remain in charge through Euro 2028. A contractual break clause complicates any potential managerial change, and Guardiola is currently taking a break from football despite past indications of reconsidering major decisions.

Coventry City’s preparations for their return to the Premier League include reflecting on three impactful free-agent signings: Joe Cole, who provided valuable experience and creativity during a short stint; Yakubu, whose time at the club was limited by injuries; and Dennis Wise, who delivered an impressive scoring run late in his career. The article notes ongoing squad strengthening under Frank Lampard, including new contracts for key players and the signing of Frank Onyeka, as the club aims to establish itself in the top flight.

Newcastle’s history of significant free‑agent acquisitions is highlighted through profiles of John Barnes, Ian Rush and Jack Colback, detailing their careers, achievements and contributions after joining the club. The article places these past moves in the context of a challenging current transfer window marked by key departures and several costly signings, suggesting free agents may again be important for maintaining financial balance.

Prince Harry continues to support England's World Cup campaign despite relocating to the United States, with recent family posts showing his children celebrating his English heritage. An anecdote from 2018 highlights his reluctance to say “football’s coming home” to avoid jinxing results. Harry returned to England to mark the one‑year countdown to the 2027 Invictus Games, though it is unclear whether Meghan and their children joined him amid ongoing concerns over UK police protection. Affiliate links promote the new England World Cup kits.

Several football pundits compared Erling Haaland and Harry Kane ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final with Norway. Jamie Carragher, Sam Allardyce, Gus Poyet and Kris Boyd all chose Haaland for his goal-scoring power and unique finishing ability, while Glenn Hoddle supported Kane for his all‑round playmaking and versatility. Both strikers enter the match after strong World Cup performances, with Haaland narrowly leading Kane in goals scored.

Wayne Rooney says he would only return to football management if offered a role on Michael Carrick’s coaching staff at Manchester United. After mixed managerial spells at Derby County, Birmingham City, DC United and Plymouth Argyle, he considers a return unlikely but calls working with Carrick at Old Trafford a “no‑brainer.” He reflects on past regrets, particularly his time at Birmingham, and stresses the need for people who understand United’s identity. Carrick’s staff has already been confirmed without him.

Leeds United’s strategy of relying on smart free-agent acquisitions is highlighted through the careers of Kiko Casilla, Pablo Hernandez and Sam Byram, all of whom made significant contributions after joining without transfer fees. The article links these past successes to current squad-building efforts under Daniel Farke as the club prepares to strengthen for another Premier League season.

A severely disabled teenager’s parents describe being required to perform job searches on his behalf despite his profound physical limitations while navigating Universal Credit requirements. The family reports missed assessments, inaccessible job centre facilities and administrative hurdles that forced them to repeatedly prove he is unfit for work. They describe emotional strain related to guardianship, mobility support and caring responsibilities as their son reaches adulthood. The DWP states that work-related requirements were tailored to his situation and that further telephone appointments are planned.

Chelsea’s history of major free‑agent signings is highlighted through the careers of Ruud Gullit, Thiago Silva and Winston Bogarde. Gullit delivered trophies and early Premier League-era success as player and manager, Silva became a key defender and Champions League winner after joining from PSG, while Bogarde struggled following his move from Barcelona. The article notes Chelsea’s recent heavy spending and managerial changes while contrasting these with earlier impactful free transfers.

Liverpool’s recent and historical transfer failures are revisited, highlighting collapsed deals involving Marc Guehi, Moises Caicedo, Nabil Fekir and Dani Alves. Each case stemmed from issues such as managerial intervention, player preference, medical concerns or financial hesitation. The piece outlines Liverpool’s current squad overhaul under Andoni Iraola and stresses the need to avoid similar setbacks as the club seeks key reinforcements, including a replacement for Mohamed Salah.

Manchester United are close to completing the £35m signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson as the club pursue additional reinforcements under Michael Carrick. Marcel Desailly has endorsed a potential move for Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni, though any deal would exceed £85m. While Tchouameni prefers to stay in Spain, previous transfers such as Raphael Varane and Casemiro demonstrate successful transitions from Madrid to Manchester. United aim to strengthen the squad further as Carrick prepares for his first full season in charge.

Switzerland uses the trigram SUI on World Cup scoreboards due to the country’s French name, Suisse, reflecting the historic influence of French in international sporting bodies such as FIFA and the IOC. Trigrams provide consistent and internationally recognised codes to avoid confusion across broadcasts and events, and once assigned become standard across competitions and media.

Manchester United released six players including Jadon Sancho and Casemiro, cutting £700,000 from the weekly wage bill. Sancho departs after multiple loan spells, while Casemiro leaves as a fan favourite following trophy successes. Tyrell Malacia and three academy players also exit. Michael Carrick prepares for his first major addition as Ederson joins from Atalanta in a £35 million deal, with further midfield targets under consideration.

Serena Williams is returning to Wimbledon as a wildcard entrant, boosting an already substantial net worth that Forbes values at about £264.8 million. Her wealth comes from prize money, major sponsorships and investments through Serena Ventures, plus minority stakes in the UFC and Miami Dolphins. Williams’ fortune exceeds Novak Djokovic’s by roughly £75 million, though he continues to earn heavily from endorsements. Williams aims to add to her 23 Grand Slam titles as she resumes competition at SW19.

Liverpool must identify alternative winger targets after Yan Diomande verbally agreed to join Paris Saint-Germain. Potential options include Said El Mala from Cologne, Yankuba Minteh from Brighton, Bournemouth’s Rayan, PSG’s Bradley Barcola and Lille’s Matias Fernandez-Pardo. Each player presents varying price points and performance profiles as Liverpool prepare to replace Mohamed Salah.

Michael Carrick has replaced eight rules from Ruben Amorim’s and Erik ten Hag’s regimes at Manchester United, aiming to improve morale, intensity and tactical flexibility. Changes include scrapping day‑after‑match training, reinstating food in the dressing room, implementing post‑match debriefs, allowing later matchday arrivals, increasing training intensity, empowering assistant coaches, shifting to a 4‑2‑3‑1 system and ending long‑distance preseason tours in favor of European destinations. These adjustments are credited with stabilizing the squad and supporting the club’s return to Champions League football.

Broadcast details, kick-off times and viewing options for the Netherlands vs Morocco World Cup 2026 match are outlined alongside team news, historical records and available TV, radio and streaming platforms in the UK, US and internationally.

Provides broadcast details and kickoff information for Germany’s World Cup match against Paraguay, outlining UK and US viewing options, radio coverage, team news for both sides, and a brief head‑to‑head history.

Declan Rice praised Marcus Rashford’s impact for England at the World Cup, highlighting qualities that could make him valuable to Arsenal as the club seeks attacking solutions against defensive opponents. Arsenal face challenges breaking down compact teams and are exploring signings to support their title defense, with Rashford seen as a strong potential addition despite competition and transfer complications involving other clubs. The club has already activated Piero Hincapie’s permanent transfer, signaling willingness to invest further.

Manchester United prepare for pre‑season with several players still at the World Cup as Chido Obi enters talks over a loan move to FC Koln to support his development. The young forward, who excelled in youth competitions, is expected to seek first‑team experience in Germany. Financial advisor Stefan Borson claims United have agreed to allow Amazon Prime to film an All or Nothing documentary for the 2026–27 season, a deal projected to generate £10–15 million but seen as risky if performance issues arise.

Canada’s World Cup round‑of‑32 match against South Africa kicks off at 8pm UK time at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, with ITV1 and STV providing UK coverage and ITVX and STV Player offering streaming. US viewers can watch on FOX or Telemundo, with streaming available on Peacock, Fubo and Sling TV. The page also includes an affiliate promotion for Sky’s Ultimate TV and Sports package.

Canada must play South Africa in Los Angeles after finishing second in Group B, as the preset World Cup bracket assigned the runner‑up to face Group A’s runner‑up at that venue rather than at home in Vancouver.

Max Verstappen was confirmed unharmed after crashing during Austrian Grand Prix qualifying, with Red Bull taking responsibility for the incident. Charles Leclerc lost FP1 time after being temporarily replaced by Dino Beganovic but secured a front-row start alongside pole-sitter George Russell, whose lap generated controversy due to yellow-flag confusion. Mercedes maintained that Russell correctly responded to a single yellow flag, while Kimi Antonelli admitted he mistakenly slowed for what he believed was a double yellow. Teams prepare for one of the shortest races of the season, with Ferrari encouraged by recent progress.

England will play an additional knockout match at the 2026 World Cup due to FIFA’s expansion of the tournament to 48 teams, advancing to a new round of 32 where they will face DR Congo. A dramatic conclusion to the group stage saw Austria and Algeria both progress after a late equaliser. England topped their group with a 2-0 win over Panama, featuring key contributions from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, though injuries in defence have created new concerns for manager Thomas Tuchel. The team now prepares for the next phase with renewed confidence but defensive uncertainties.

Arsenal are pursuing Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes as a key summer transfer target and could entice him with his preferred No. 39 shirt, tied to a personal tribute to his father. With midfield reinforcement needed after injuries and inconsistent performances, Guimaraes is viewed as an ideal addition. Newcastle may be forced to consider sales for financial reasons but remain reluctant to lose their captain.

Bruno Fernandes is portrayed as the best attacking midfielder in world football, giving Manchester United a world‑class asset comparable to what they last had during Cristiano Ronaldo’s first spell at the club. His record‑breaking performances, leadership and consistency are highlighted alongside praise from figures such as Roy Keane. The article contrasts Fernandes with past United greats like Rooney and De Gea while noting that he plans to stay at Old Trafford despite interest from Saudi Arabia, aiming to build on a successful season under Michael Carrick.

Stephane Guivarc'h, a member of France’s 1998 World Cup–winning squad, left football at age 31 to focus on family and later built a career selling swimming pools. Despite a successful club and international run, he chose a quieter life and distanced himself from former teammates, prompting disappointment from Emmanuel Petit. Guivarc'h cites personal loss and a desire to remain close to family as reasons for stepping away from the sport.

Coventry City are considering Axel Tuanzebe as a free-transfer option to strengthen Frank Lampard’s defence ahead of their Premier League return. Tuanzebe, currently playing for DR Congo at the World Cup, is seen as a low‑risk, high‑value signing due to his experience across several Premier League clubs and strong performances despite limited minutes at Burnley. His versatility, aerial ability and ball retention make him an appealing addition to a backline lacking top‑flight experience. With his contract expiring and wage demands expected to be modest, the move is positioned as a financially safe opportunity for Coventry City.

Djed Spence is wearing a custom protective jaw guard at the World Cup as he continues to recover from a broken jaw sustained during a Premier League match against Chelsea. He began using the guard shortly after the injury and is expected to wear it throughout the three‑month healing period. Spence has used the headgear in England’s warm‑up matches and group stage games as the team prepares to face Panama after drawing with Ghana and defeating Croatia.

Rio Ferdinand publicly urges Aurelien Tchouameni to join Manchester United, arguing the club should prioritise signing him if Real Madrid make him available. Madrid’s interest in Enzo Fernandes could create an opportunity, though Tchouameni’s wages pose a challenge. Additional midfield targets include Mateus Fernandes and Ederson, who is close to completing a move to Old Trafford.

Patrick Vieira praised Arsenal target Manu Kone as the best midfielder in France, endorsing the club's pursuit of the Roma player. Despite recent injuries, Kone impressed in France’s World Cup group-stage wins and demonstrated both defensive and attacking strengths. Arsenal are reportedly close to agreeing personal terms, with Kone seen as a potential partner for Declan Rice in midfield.

Danny Mills argues that Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to play at the 2030 World Cup unless he becomes a player‑coach, citing age and fitness concerns despite his current performances. He warns that Portugal’s squad dynamics and competing egos could hinder Ronaldo’s future role and highlights the tough decisions facing manager Roberto Martinez, who is criticised for continuing to start the 41‑year‑old. Mills believes Ronaldo would be more effective as an impact substitute while predicting he will remain involved with Portugal in some capacity.