Chris Davie

Theo Walcott said Mikel Arteta may have been disappointed by Eberechi Eze’s speculative free-kick during Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Coventry City. Walcott argued that such small decisions could influence selection in a deep Arsenal squad, while praising new signing Christos Tzolis for his positive first touch, direct running and attacking potential.

Chelsea are willing to sell Nicolas Jackson before the transfer window closes but want £60 million, a valuation described as the main obstacle to his departure. Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Atlético Madrid are interested after Jackson scored 11 goals during his loan spell at Bayern Munich, which declined to sign him permanently. Jackson has returned to Chelsea, but was omitted from the squad for the final pre-season friendly, with Xabi Alonso set to decide his future. Chelsea are also open to offers for Liam Delap, who is wanted by Como but prefers to remain in the Premier League.

Aston Villa are reportedly leading the race to sign Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki after Paris Saint-Germain withdrew from an agreed €35 million deal. PSG considered the commission requested by Suzuki’s agents excessive, while another report said Suzuki had concerns about playing time. Juventus have also enquired about Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, but Villa director of football operations Damian Vidagany said the Argentina international will remain at the club.

Galatasaray reportedly intends to keep Victor Osimhen and has ruled out selling him to Arsenal this summer. Arsenal discussed the striker during talks involving Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, while Osimhen remained noncommittal about his future. Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek is said to have rejected any sale regardless of the fee, following the club’s reported refusal of a €130 million offer from Al-Hilal. Osimhen joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli for €75 million and has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances over two seasons.

Liverpool are reportedly preparing an opening bid of more than €50 million (£42.7m) for Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye. The 18-year-old came through PSG’s academy, made his first-team debut under Luis Enrique and contributed three goals and two assists last season, but has received limited opportunities since returning from Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Manchester United and several European clubs have also reportedly made enquiries. Liverpool are additionally expected to resume negotiations for PSG winger Bradley Barcola, although PSG’s €150 million asking price remains beyond the Premier League club’s current reach.

Ezri Konsa is reportedly open to joining Arsenal but will not force a move from Aston Villa. Arsenal's initial £30 million offer was rejected, with Villa demanding £60 million and refusing to reduce their valuation. Konsa's contract runs until 2028, and Villa have offered him a new deal. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that the club remains eager to strengthen its squad, particularly its defence following William Saliba's injury, but acknowledged that further signings depend on market conditions and player availability.

Gabriel Martinelli has reportedly told Arsenal’s hierarchy that he does not want to move to Galatasaray or other clubs in Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Arsenal are said to be seeking around €50 million (£42.7 million) for the 25-year-old, whose contract expires next summer, but the club has not ruled out keeping him. Galatasaray reportedly had a €40 million offer rejected, while Arsenal have strengthened their left flank by signing Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge.

Barcelona have reportedly contacted Pedro Porro’s representatives about a potential transfer from Tottenham if Jules Kounde leaves the Catalan club. Porro, who joined Spurs permanently from Sporting CP for £39.7 million and recently signed a contract running until 2031, was a key player for Spain at the World Cup. Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has praised the right-back’s technical ability, mentality and development.

Tottenham have opened talks with Monaco over a potential €60 million (£51.2 million) transfer for former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, according to L’Équipe. The 25-year-old has scored 31 goals in 91 Monaco appearances and is reportedly also attracting interest from Newcastle United and Spanish clubs. Tottenham are seeking attacking reinforcements after Dominic Solanke’s injury concerns and uncertainty over Richarlison’s future.

Thousands of Cristiano Ronaldo fans gathered outside Funchal Cathedral and the Savoy Palace after rumors that Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez were marrying in Madeira. The cathedral wedding was actually for Fabio Ramos and Fátima Nicole Cunha Teixeira, whose arrival was disrupted as crowds mistook the bride for Rodríguez. Ronaldo responded to footage with laughing emojis, while his sisters criticized or clarified the unfounded speculation. The cathedral and wedding party described the incident as chaotic, though the newlyweds ultimately completed their ceremony.

Arsenal are considering a renewed approach for Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz after Vinicius Junior extended his Real Madrid contract. Juventus previously rejected an Arsenal enquiry and do not want to sell Yildiz, who is tied to the club until 2030 and has a reported valuation of about £85.7 million. Arsenal have already signed Christos Tzolis but remain interested in another left-sided attacker. Yildiz's return to action has been managed carefully because of calf and knee problems.

Manchester United have reportedly approved Joshua Zirkzee’s loan move to Juventus after the clubs reached a preliminary breakthrough. The deal remains dependent on the inclusion of a purchase option: Juventus want a loan without a mandatory purchase, while United prefer a permanent sale in 2027. Zirkzee, signed from Bologna for £36.5 million in 2024, has scored nine goals in 75 appearances over two seasons. Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti said his team does not need one prolific striker and can rely on multiple players to contribute goals.

Tottenham are reportedly unwilling to sell captain Cristian Romero to north London rivals Arsenal, who are seeking a centre-back after William Saliba suffered a long-term back injury. Atlético Madrid have revived their interest in the Argentina international and are considered a likelier destination, while Tottenham have also agreed a €40 million deal to sell him to Inter Milan, pending agreement on personal terms. Spurs remain open to a sale despite head coach Roberto De Zerbi saying he is planning for Romero to be part of the squad.

Arsenal began their pre-season campaign with a 4-1 win over Girona in Spain. Kai Havertz opened the scoring from Max Dowman's pass, and debutant Christos Tzolis doubled the lead before half-time. Girona captain Arnau Martinez reduced the deficit early in the second half, but Dowman quickly restored Arsenal's two-goal advantage and Gabriel Jesus added a fourth after a defensive error. Arsenal made extensive substitutions and will next face Real Betis in Dublin.

Chelsea have submitted an improved offer to Rayo Vallecano for left-back Pep Chavarria after agreeing personal terms with the player. The 28-year-old is being targeted as a replacement for Marc Cucurella, who joined Real Madrid for £51.8 million, with Xabi Alonso reportedly supporting the move. Rayo rejected Chelsea’s initial €15 million bid but may accept around €25 million plus add-ons, despite Chavarria’s €50 million release clause. Negotiations are ongoing and have not yet been completed, although Chelsea are increasingly optimistic.

Manchester United recovered from Arnau Ortiz’s first-half goal to beat Atlético Madrid 2–1 in a pre-season friendly in Stockholm. Bryan Mbeumo equalised from the penalty spot after Shea Lacey was fouled, then scored again in the 74th minute after Jack Fletcher’s cross. Atlético threatened late, with Morten Hjulmand hitting the post, but United held on for a deserved victory.

Vinicius Junior is reportedly open to joining Arsenal if he cannot agree a new contract with Real Madrid. Arsenal are exploring a transfer but have not made an official offer, while Real Madrid have told the Brazilian winger that their latest renewal proposal is final. The club has warned that he will be sold this summer rather than allowed to leave for free next year. Vinicius previously rejected a deal worth €20 million net per season, and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has said he would prefer the player to stay but would not prevent him from leaving. Real Madrid are also advancing negotiations to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig.

Tottenham have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Inter for Cristian Romero worth €40 million (£34 million), but the Argentina defender has yet to agree personal terms with the Italian club. Romero has privately indicated that he wants to leave Spurs, despite interest from Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi said he respects the defender’s wishes while praising his performances and conduct. Tottenham have also added Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi to strengthen their defence.

Tottenham Hotspur defeated Chelsea 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Sydney, despite playing the second half with 10 men after Kevin Danso was sent off for bringing down Joao Pedro. Sandro Tonali gave Spurs an early lead through a deflected strike, while Estevao equalised for Chelsea with a header from Jamie Gittens’ cross. Antonin Kinsky made several important saves before Jamie Donley’s shot struck the post and Richarlison followed up to score the injury-time winner.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has abandoned a proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise and raise $4.2 billion from private investors by selling them a minority stake in the commercial operations of future World Cups and Club World Cups. The plan faced strong opposition from UEFA, which threatened a boycott, as well as CONCACAF, the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA adviser Carlos Cordeiro, who called it harmful to member associations and football's long-term future. Infantino said the proposal had created divisions and was no longer serving its intended purpose, while FIFA had previously argued that the structure would increase revenue and that it would retain control over football governance.

Real Madrid have reportedly given Vinicius Junior a final contract offer and warned that he will be sold this summer if he does not renew. Arsenal are exploring a move but have not yet made an offer, while Madrid want to avoid losing the Brazilian winger as a free agent next year. His position could also face increased competition from Yan Diomande, who is expected to join from RB Leipzig.

Franco Baresi, the legendary AC Milan captain and former Italy defender, has died aged 66. He captained Milan for 15 seasons, winning three European Cups and six Serie A titles, and earned 81 Italy caps, including participation in the 1982 World Cup-winning squad and captaincy in the 1994 World Cup final. Renowned for his reading of the game and leadership of Milan's high defensive line, Baresi helped establish one of the most successful eras in the club's history. AC Milan paid tribute to him, while the club's retirement of his number six shirt cemented his legacy.

World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic rejected claims that Lionel Messi used unsporting tactics during Argentina’s extra-time defeat by Spain. Vincic said Messi behaved extremely sportsmanlike, while describing the management of the players’ emotions as the match’s biggest challenge. Argentina’s combative conduct and the post-match brawl have led FIFA to charge Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and coach Roberto Ayala, who is accused of punching Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Vincic retired after officiating the final and defended his refereeing strategy.

Eddie Howe is set to leave Newcastle United after telling the club he wants a break from football, only 24 days before the Premier League season opener against Liverpool. Newcastle are reportedly in advanced talks with Matthias Jaissle, the Al-Ahli head coach, to replace him. Howe’s departure follows a difficult summer in which Sandro Tonali moved to Tottenham and Anthony Gordon joined Barcelona, while captain Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly seeking a transfer to Arsenal. Newcastle’s instability was compounded by a 4–1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City.

Czech Football Association president David Trunda has backed Gianni Infantino’s proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise and sell minority stakes in the commercial rights to future World Cup tournaments. FIFA says the plan could unlock a $10 billion funding package and provide member associations with up to $40 million each, but UEFA and the English Football Association oppose it, citing inadequate consultation, governance concerns and the risk that private investors could influence tournament decisions, expansion or frequency. UEFA is preparing an emergency meeting with its 55 member associations before FIFA’s September 19 deadline.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has called Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi the second-best midfielder in the world behind Rodri, despite Zubimendi making only one substitute appearance during Spain's World Cup-winning campaign. De la Fuente praised Rodri's influence, criticised the violent reactions from Argentina's players and staff after the final, and commended Spain's players for remaining composed. He also said managing Spain at the 2030 World Cup in Spain, Portugal and Morocco would be the greatest honour, although he remains focused on the team's nearer-term fixtures.

Adam Peaty became emotional after finishing third in the men’s 100-metre breaststroke at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, behind Australia’s Sam Williamson and Jersey’s Filip Nowacki. He said the family feud that followed his marriage to Holly Ramsay had taken a toll alongside the demands of elite training, while insisting his disappointment stemmed from falling short of his own standard rather than winning bronze. Peaty, who holds the 100-metre breaststroke world record, said his wife remains proud of him and that he is focused on overcoming the personal and sporting pressures ahead of the 50-metre event.

Team Movistar cyclist Einer Rubio crashed head-first into the back of a UAE Team Emirates-XRG car during the Alpe d'Huez climb in Stage 19 of the Tour de France. The car had braked suddenly after a spectator ran into the road, leaving Rubio unable to react. He suffered multiple facial injuries, required about 20 stitches, was taken to hospital and withdrew from the race. UAE team manager Joxean Fernandez Matxin said the driver’s immediate braking prevented a potentially worse incident involving the spectator, while expressing deep regret for Rubio’s injuries.

Liverpool have reportedly rejected the opportunity to sign Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, despite the Brazilian having 12 months remaining on his contract. Arsenal are exploring a move, while Liverpool are prioritising reinforcement on the right side of their attack following Mohamed Salah’s departure. Both Liverpool and Arsenal have also had €100 million bids for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande rejected. Real Madrid are separately pursuing Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who is reportedly open to returning to La Liga.

Manchester United have reportedly agreed personal terms with AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné, but the clubs have not agreed a fee, with Roma seeking €60 million (£51 million). The Telegraph says the move lacks universal backing among United’s hierarchy, which also has reservations about Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. United are considering alternatives including Alex Scott, Tyler Adams and Aurélien Tchouaméni, while manager Michael Carrick says the squad is progressing positively ahead of the new Premier League season.

Manchester City are reportedly considering a £54 million move for Chelsea winger Pedro Neto while negotiating Savinho’s possible transfer to Tottenham Hotspur. City are also said to be resisting interest in Malo Gusto because of Chelsea’s £75 million valuation. Real Madrid have intensified efforts to sign Rodri, who reportedly wants the move for football and family reasons and has one year remaining on his contract. Rodri will miss the start of the season while recovering from back surgery, while Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has publicly said he wants the midfielder to stay.

Newly released FIFA referee-camera footage shows England midfielder Jude Bellingham telling referee Ismail Elfath that there had been “some shocking ones” after England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. England questioned several decisions, including an alleged elbow by Enzo Fernandez on Elliot Anderson and a possible Lionel Messi foul on Djed Spence before Lautaro Martinez’s injury-time winner. The report also highlights Elfath’s history officiating Lionel Messi and Argentina victories. Separately, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente condemned Argentina’s alleged post-match conduct following Spain’s final victory and praised his own players for remaining composed.

Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to reject Arsenal’s improved £70 million offer for Bruno Guimaraes, whom Arsenal have allegedly agreed personal terms with. Newcastle are frustrated by Arsenal’s use of intermediaries and lack of direct negotiations, reportedly viewing the bid as a non-starter and potentially demanding £100 million if Guimaraes submits a transfer request. The midfielder is expected to return for Newcastle’s pre-season training, while the club has already sold Sandro Tonali to Tottenham and Anthony Gordon to Barcelona.

Arsenal are targeting West Ham right‑back Aaron Wan‑Bissaka as they look to strengthen their defence after William Saliba sustained a long‑term back injury. West Ham are demanding £25 million, a figure Arsenal are unwilling to match, while valuations for Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa also differ significantly. John Stones is another option following his Manchester City exit. Arsenal confirmed Saliba will undergo rehabilitation rather than surgery, and Jurrien Timber also remains sidelined during his recovery from a groin injury.

Arsenal confirmed that William Saliba will avoid surgery for a back injury sustained during France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain and will instead undergo a structured rehabilitation program. Medical assessments ruled out surgical intervention, and the defender is expected to be sidelined for an extended period. The club stated that full support will be provided to aid his recovery.

Play at the World Matchplay Darts in Blackpool was halted after Cameron Menzies became ill during his match against Ross Smith. Medics assessed him and he withdrew with Smith advancing to the quarter-finals. The Professional Darts Corporation later confirmed he experienced high blood pressure that caused dizziness and fainting, and he was able to return to his accommodation. Updates from Sky Sports indicated he was conscious and speaking backstage.

A mural of Spain’s World Cup hero Ferran Torres, created by street artist TVBoy in Barcelona, was vandalised within a day with pro‑Catalan independence graffiti. Barcelona’s city council subsequently painted over the entire wall, removing both the artwork and the defacement. TVBoy responded defiantly to criticism from independence supporters. Spain’s World Cup squad returned home to large celebrations in Madrid, where they were greeted by King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Two Argentina players, Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero, avoided shaking hands with U.S. President Donald Trump during the World Cup final medal ceremony after Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain. Martinez skipped both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, while Romero bypassed Trump but greeted Mexico’s president and Canada’s prime minister. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni tearfully reflected on his future, and Lionel Messi was emotional during Spain’s celebrations, likely marking his final World Cup appearance.

FIFA assured Spain and Argentina the World Cup final half-time show would be limited to 17 minutes but the break extended to more than 27 minutes at MetLife Stadium. The extended Super Bowl-style performance, featuring several major artists, exceeded IFAB’s maximum permitted interval and revived longstanding concerns about player welfare during prolonged inactivity. Previous tournaments under FIFA and CONMEBOL also featured lengthy shows, while Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo reiterated warnings about fitness risks from extended breaks.

Borja Iglesias says he will reluctantly shake Donald Trump’s hand if Spain win the World Cup final, noting he wants the moment to pass quickly and avoid controversy. Trump is set to present the trophy alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino and recently criticised Spain as an unreliable NATO partner and trade ally. Iglesias acknowledges his limited power to confront political issues while focusing on Spain’s preparation for the final against Argentina.

FIFA informed Spain and Argentina that the World Cup final half-time show will be limited to 17 minutes after concerns that it might exceed the 15‑minute limit set by IFAB. The event at MetLife Stadium will feature an 11‑minute performance segment with additional time reserved for stage setup and removal. Recent extended halftime shows at other competitions, including FIFA’s Club World Cup and CONMEBOL events, prompted fears over player welfare. A closing ceremony featuring multiple performers is scheduled for 90 minutes before kick‑off.

Thomas Tuchel benched Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham for England’s World Cup third‑place match against France, citing fatigue after heavy workloads, travel and recent demanding fixtures. Ivan Toney and Morgan Rogers start instead, with Tuchel planning to use Kane and Bellingham later in the match. He views the game as a chance for England to close the gap with tournament favourites France and secure their best World Cup finish in six decades.

Thomas Tuchel defends selecting Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka for England’s World Cup third‑place match against France despite both managing injuries, citing their improving fitness and importance to the team. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham start on the bench due to fatigue from a demanding tournament schedule. Tuchel frames the match as an opportunity for England to achieve their best World Cup finish in decades and close the performance gap with France, previously considered one of the competition’s strongest sides.

Kobbie Mainoo missed England’s World Cup third-place match against France due to injury after not playing throughout the tournament. His exclusion has drawn criticism amid concerns over Declan Rice’s fitness and Thomas Tuchel’s selection choices. Former players Gary Neville and Nicky Butt questioned Mainoo’s treatment, with Butt suggesting he should refuse to play in what he called a pointless match. The article includes confirmed line-ups and notes broader criticism surrounding England’s World Cup campaign.

Chelsea have reached a £117 million agreement with Aston Villa to sign Morgan Rogers, beating Arsenal to the attacking midfielder’s signature. Rogers is set to join on a six‑year contract with an optional extension after impressing last season and featuring in England’s World Cup squad. Xabi Alonso helped persuade him to make the move, which marks Chelsea’s second major signing of the summer following the arrival of Marco Palestra.

Josh Kerr set a new world record in the men’s mile at the London Diamond League, running 3:42.66 to surpass Hicham El Guerrouj’s 1999 mark. Supported by a capacity crowd, he achieved the target he had trained for under “Project 222” and received a $50,000 prize. Kerr credited his team’s effort and described the experience as overwhelming but fulfilling.

Nicky Butt urges Kobbie Mainoo to refuse to play in England’s World Cup third‑place match against France, arguing he has been unfairly overlooked throughout the tournament and risks injury in what he calls a pointless game. Butt criticizes Thomas Tuchel’s management, calls for the Football Association to replace him, and suggests Eddie Howe or Mauricio Pochettino as better alternatives. He questions the FA’s leadership structure and contrasts Tuchel with respected past managers while expressing skepticism about Tuchel’s future with England.

Lionel Messi rejects accusations that Argentina received favorable refereeing decisions during their World Cup run, insisting the team earned its place in the final through performance and unity. Following Argentina’s late 2-1 win over England in the semi‑final, he emphasized the squad’s belief in its quality and dismissed external criticism as unfounded. Previous complaints from Egypt and Switzerland about officiating are noted, but Messi maintains Argentina’s success is the result of hard work and consistency over the past four years as they prepare to face Spain in the final.

Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez rebuked Gary Neville for his criticism following Argentina’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England, with both defenders dismissing his remarks and stressing their focus on performance. Neville had previously labelled them the “best worst centre-halves in the world,” prompting Romero to call the comments “stupid.” Argentina advance to face Spain in the World Cup final after late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez overturned England’s lead.

Argentina face possible disciplinary action after players displayed a banner asserting Argentine sovereignty over the Falkland Islands during celebrations following their World Cup semi-final win over England. FIFA rules ban political messages at matches, and Argentina were previously fined for similar displays in 2014. The gesture follows repeated references to the islands by fans and players throughout the tournament. Statements from players and security officials highlighted the political sensitivity surrounding the fixture and measures taken to maintain order.

Jude Bellingham slapped Argentina’s Valentin Barco after England’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final loss in Atlanta, prompting a brief confrontation involving multiple players from both teams. England had led through Anthony Gordon before goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez completed Argentina’s comeback. Bellingham was pulled away by teammates and could face a FIFA sanction that may affect his availability for England’s third-place match against France.

Joe Hart labelled Leandro Paredes as ‘pathetic’ after the Argentina midfielder demanded a red card for Harry Kane during England’s World Cup semi-final defeat. Paredes appealed to the referee after Kane covered his mouth while speaking, citing a new rule allowing dismissals for concealed speech. The rule only applies to player-to-player confrontations, making the appeal invalid. Commentators, including Mark Chapman and Wayne Rooney, criticised the attempt as excessive, while Argentina advanced to the final following a late turnaround.

Spain reached the World Cup final after defeating France 2-0, with reports indicating their players prefer to face Argentina rather than England due to fan sentiment, past criticism and competitive motivations. Juanfe Sanz claimed the squad is eager for a matchup with Lionel Messi’s side, while head coach Luis de la Fuente said he has no preference and respects both potential opponents. The final will be decided after England and Argentina meet in the second semi-final.

Didier Deschamps questioned the suitability of referee Ivan Barton after France’s 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, arguing that several decisions, including a penalty awarded against Lucas Digne, were part of a pattern of unfavourable officiating. While acknowledging that France were technically inferior on the night, he suggested FIFA should reconsider referee appointments for major matches. Spain’s Rodri also criticised the level of protection afforded to Lamine Yamal. Spain advance to the final to face England or Argentina, while France will contest the third-place match.

Norwegian cinematography experts challenge FIFA’s claim that England’s World Cup equaliser could not have hit a Spidercam cable, arguing that the camera’s stabilisation system would prevent visible movement even if contact occurred. FIFA maintains that connected ball sensor data showed no impact and that the camera footage displayed no shake, while the experts counter that these observations are unreliable without consulting the technology supplier. IFAB rules indicate play should stop for a drop ball if a camera or cable is struck, which would have negated the goal.

Switzerland accused World Cup officials of one‑sided refereeing in their extra‑time defeat to Argentina, criticising Breel Embolo’s red card and claiming multiple unpunished fouls and dives. Players and coaches argued the mistaken‑identity ruling and subsequent VAR intervention unfairly swung the match, while Egypt also lodged complaints over officiating in their loss to Argentina. FIFA’s refereeing chief rejected any suggestion of bias, maintaining officials’ integrity. Argentina now move on to face England in the semi‑final.

England beat Norway 2-1 in extra time in the World Cup quarter-final after Jude Bellingham scored twice, while Norway saw two key moments go against them, including a disallowed goal and a deflection involving Spidercam cables. Norway coach Stale Solbakken substituted Erling Haaland at the break in extra time due to fatigue and a dead leg. Haaland later said he was exhausted after playing in intense Miami heat. England advanced to face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-final.

Manchester United have approached Wolves to sign Joao Gomes after cancelling their £35m move for Ederson due to medical concerns. Liverpool are also in talks for the midfielder, who previously neared a transfer to Atletico Madrid before the deal collapsed over dissatisfaction with agent Jorge Mendes. Atletico instead moved to sign Morten Hjulmand, while United continue strengthening their midfield following Andrey Santos’s imminent arrival from Chelsea.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente praised Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino as a world‑class player capable of playing for any team after his late winning goal against Belgium sent Spain into the World Cup semi‑finals. Merino, who also scored in the previous round against Portugal, credited self‑belief for his impact and anticipated a tightly contested match against France in the semifinals.

Thibaut Courtois offered public support to Senne Lammens after the substitute goalkeeper’s late mistake led to Spain’s winning goal in Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final defeat. Courtois left the match injured and expressed frustration at being forced off but insisted Lammens should not be blamed, highlighting his potential and resilience. Belgium also lost captain Youri Tielemans to injury before kickoff. Spain advanced to face France in the semi-final.

Youri Tielemans withdrew from Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final against Spain after suffering a warm‑up injury, with Hans Vanaken replacing him and Kevin De Bruyne taking the captaincy. The BBC reported the issue as a hamstring problem, though its severity is unknown. Belgium had already lost Amadou Onana to a tournament-ending ACL injury. A win over Spain would set up a semi-final against France on July 14.

Manchester United cancelled their £35 million deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta after the midfielder failed a post‑World Cup medical. Ederson had completed an initial medical before joining Brazil’s squad but was rejected following further examinations after the tournament. United are close to signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea in a £50 million deal, with the player completing his medical and agreeing a five‑year contract.

Norway’s national football team switched from FIFA-assigned accommodation at The Dalmar in Fort Lauderdale to a nearby Four Seasons after complaints about room conditions, noise and location ahead of their World Cup quarter-final against England. Analysts in Norway criticised FIFA’s hotel choice, citing potential risks to player rest and health, while team officials noted FIFA acted quickly to support the move and cover key costs. Players and staff said the change was made to optimise preparation for what they view as the most important match in their footballing history.

Declan Rice and Marc Guehi are doubts for England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway due to a sickness bug and a hamstring injury respectively, with Rice also managing existing hamstring and back issues. England have isolated Rice to prevent further illness, while Norway deny reports of a similar outbreak in their camp. Several England players, including Rice, Guehi and Jude Bellingham, risk suspension due to accumulated yellow cards. Jarrell Quansah is unavailable after receiving a two-game ban, while Reece James has returned to training and is expected to be available.

France advanced to the World Cup semi-final with a 2-0 win over Morocco but faced concern after Kylian Mbappe left the match with an ankle injury following a challenge from Issa Diop. Mbappe, who scored the opening goal, later said he was fine, and he was seen moving comfortably during post-match celebrations. Didier Deschamps confirmed the knock but downplayed its severity while noting additional minor injuries within the squad as France prepare to face either Spain or Belgium in the next round.

Newcastle United insist Bruno Guimaraes is not for sale despite the midfielder reaching a reported agreement to join Arsenal. Arsenal’s initial £55 million approach was rejected, though the club is expected to return with a higher offer. Guimaraes has informed Newcastle of his desire to move, driven by concerns over the club’s direction following missed European qualification and key player departures. Reports suggest he has agreed terms with Arsenal, who remain optimistic about completing a deal. Newcastle continue to maintain a firm stance, while former teammate Emil Krafth emphasises Guimaraes’ importance to the team.

Erling Haaland describes England as one of the favourites to win the World Cup and urges they should feel confident ahead of their quarter-final against Norway. Despite Norway’s unexpected run, including victories over Ivory Coast and Brazil, Haaland maintains their chances of winning the tournament are low. He highlights the surprise of Norway’s progress and expresses pride in participating on the world stage, while the scoring race features Messi, Mbappe and Haaland closely matched.

FIFA issued Jarrell Quansah a two‑match suspension for a red-card tackle against Mexico, ruling him out of England’s World Cup quarter-final with Norway and a potential semi-final. The decision follows debate over disciplinary consistency after Folarin Balogun’s suspension was reduced. England face additional risk as several players, including Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham, are one booking away from missing the semi-final under tournament yellow-card rules.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente praised his squad after a 1-0 World Cup victory over Portugal, highlighting Rodri as the best defensive midfielder in the world and Martin Zubimendi as the second-best despite the latter not featuring in the tournament. Substitute Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal to secure Spain’s quarter-final place against Belgium. De la Fuente emphasised the depth and professionalism of his squad, crediting both starters and substitutes for their contributions.