Felix Keith

Manchester United beat Atlético Madrid 2-1 in pre-season, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring twice after the Spanish side took an early lead. The match highlighted Michael Carrick's likely squad plans, including the expected departures of Joshua Zirkzee, goalkeeper Altay Bayindir and possibly Radek Vitek, while Karl Darlow has arrived as Senne Lammens' deputy. Juventus are interested in Zirkzee, Celta Vigo could take Bayindir on loan, and United are seeking a buyer for Vitek as Carrick continues reshaping the squad before the 2026/27 campaign.

UEFA is reportedly accelerating efforts to remove FIFA president Gianni Infantino after opposition to his failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. Options include forcing his resignation, seeking an emergency congress and backing a challenger, potentially CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani or Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi. UEFA has asked federations including the English FA to withdraw their support for Infantino's fourth-term bid and has accused FIFA's leadership of abandoning transparency and leaving billions in reserves idle. It plans to work with other confederations on reforms and a new distribution of FIFA funds to grassroots football.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has issued an 886-word open letter condemning critics he says were consumed by hate and failed to appreciate the unity and enjoyment of the World Cup. He defended the tournament’s record on security, visas and international attendance, and argued that disputed disciplinary decisions—including Folarin Balogun’s overturned red card—are common in major football leagues. The letter followed criticism over visa problems, ticket prices, hydration breaks and conduct surrounding the final, which Infantino attended alongside US President Donald Trump.

Former NFL offensive lineman and Super Bowl champion Jordan Devey has died by suicide at age 38, his wife Linsey confirmed in an emotional anniversary tribute. Devey played seven seasons for six NFL teams, including the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl XLIX-winning team, and later coached young athletes at Eagle High School and his children’s teams. A fundraiser for his wife and four children had raised about $90,000, while friends, players and community members offered support and condolences.

Tens of thousands of Argentina supporters have signed a petition demanding a replay of the 2026 World Cup final, alleging corrupt refereeing by Slavko Vincic after Spain’s 1-0 victory. The petition claims biased decisions influenced the match, which saw Argentina fail to register a shot on target and Enzo Fernandez sent off. Violent clashes erupted after the final whistle, prompting FIFA to investigate Argentina’s conduct. Additional petitions on Change.org call for Argentina’s exclusion from future tournaments. Critics, including Gary Neville, condemned Argentina’s behaviour during and after the match.