Graeme Young

Rangers defeated Jablonec 1–0 in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League playoff, with Ryan Naderi scoring after half-time. The result was overshadowed by the widespread pessimism and loud booing witnessed at Ibrox, which astonished Czech journalist Michal Kvasnica. Rangers improved after the interval but missed further chances, and Cammy Devlin’s red card added to the concerns ahead of the return match.

Marcelo Saracchi says he enjoyed his loan spell at Celtic and helped the club win a domestic double, but limited playing time prevented him from earning a place in Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay World Cup squad. Saracchi made eight league starts and 11 substitute appearances while competing with Kieran Tierney, and has since joined Houston Dynamo, where he hopes to reproduce Celtic's success and eventually return to international football.

Ally McCoist says Rangers should welcome their Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Celtic at Ibrox rather than view it as a nightmare draw. Speaking to Jeff Stelling on talkSPORT, McCoist described the tie as an opportunity for Rangers to build on their 5–1 win over St Mirren under his friend Derek McInnes, despite a poor start to the season and injuries to Youssef Chermiti and Tuur Rommens. He acknowledged that he would feel differently if the match were being played at Celtic Park, while noting Celtic's strong start and significant summer spending under Martin O'Neill.

Sébastien Pocognoli has signed a two-year contract to become Scotland’s new head coach, taking the role through Euro 2028. The former USG and Monaco manager said he was honoured and excited by the appointment, praised Scotland’s supporters and outlined plans to prepare for an upcoming four-match UEFA Nations League schedule against Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia. Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell called Pocognoli the standout candidate after a thorough recruitment process and said he would inherit a talented squad following Scotland’s qualification for its first FIFA World Cup in 28 years. The appointment marks the beginning of a new era following Steve Clarke’s tenure.

Celtic’s long-running pursuit of Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis faces a serious challenge from Red Bull Salzburg, managed by former Rangers boss Danny Rohl. Salzburg are reportedly preparing a bid of about £20 million for Gineitis and Torino teammate Alieu Njie, while Torino could accept an offer beginning above £8 million for Gineitis alone. Although Gineitis is said to prefer a move to Celtic, that preference may have little impact if Salzburg submit the stronger package. Celtic also remain interested in Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur, whose different role means that pursuit is not expected to affect the Gineitis deal.

Haissem Hassan is reportedly on the verge of completing a move to Celtic, with an official announcement expected soon. The Premiership champions are said to have agreed a deal below his £10 million release clause, potentially registering the winger before the Champions League deadline for their playoff tie against LASK. Celtic had also considered Fares Ghedjemis, but negotiations involving the Algerian led both Celtic and Rangers to withdraw.

Celtic widened their early Scottish Premiership lead to five points after defeating Kilmarnock 5–1, while Rangers lost to Hibernian at Ibrox to remain winless in Derek McInnes's first three competitive matches. Celtic's official account mocked Rangers with a reference to Hibs goalscorer Callum Wright. Rangers executives Paraag Marathe, Andrew Cavenagh and Jim Gillespie defended McInnes ahead of a crucial Europa League qualifying match against Polish opposition.

Celtic are facing a decisive transfer period before their Champions League playoff against LASK. West Ham have returned with a renewed bid for Arne Engels after previous offers were rejected, while Celtic manager Martin O'Neill wants the midfielder to stay for the tie. The club is also monitoring Gvidas Gineitis and Mika Baur as midfield options, with Paulo Bernardo already gone and Reo Hatate seeking an exit. Celtic remain interested in Frosinone winger Fares Ghedjemis, although a fee above £12 million could be required, while Everton continue to target Alistair Johnston. Celtic must complete key registrations by the relevant Champions League deadlines.

Celtic beat Dundee 1-0 through Benjamin Nygren’s second-half header in a gritty match that validated Martin O’Neill’s warnings about the opposition. Nygren, Kieran Tierney, Auston Trusty and Camilo Duran were among Celtic’s strongest performers, while Kasper Hogh was criticized for wasting several chances despite consistently finding good positions. Arne Engels delivered an uneven performance and could be leaving for West Ham United, adding to Celtic’s midfield concerns. Alistair Johnston also impressed in a right-sided partnership with Duran, while Dundee goalkeeper Owen Goodman helped keep the score close.

Celtic have been drawn against Austrian champions LASK in the Champions League playoff round, with the first leg scheduled in Glasgow on August 18 or 19 and the return in Austria on August 25 or 26. The tie follows Celtic's penalty-shootout elimination by Kazakhstan's Kairat and carries the prospect of more than £40 million in revenue. The live coverage also reports Celtic's pursuit of Fares Ghedjemis and likely departures of Alistair Johnston to Everton and Arne Engels, while Bournemouth have invited former Rangers player Logan Band and Queen's Park prospect Daniel Edzii for trials.

Rangers are considering offers for Nico Raskin as Real Betis lead negotiations but have yet to meet the Scottish club’s valuation, with interest also coming from Italy, Germany and England. Hull City have already failed with a significant bid, while Aston Villa are monitoring developments. Several proposals are approaching the £20 million figure Rangers expect, making a swift deal possible. Rangers continue to strengthen their squad and are close to signing Vanja Dragojevic from Partizan Belgrade while also assessing other midfield targets, though further sales will be needed to fund additional summer moves.

Graeme Souness criticised England’s Cole Palmer, recounting an incident in Dubai where he found the player extremely rude, despite praising his football ability. He also questioned Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup decisions and delivered strong assessments of England’s performance against Argentina. Souness further criticised Declan Rice and expressed concerns about Elliot Anderson, suggesting Rice may be better suited to playing centre‑half.

Argentina players mocked Jordan Pickford’s penalty cheat sheet discovered after their 2-1 World Cup semifinal win over England, with Lionel Messi and teammates laughing at the goalkeeper’s detailed notes on their supposed preferred penalty spots. Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scored to send Argentina to the final, while the find—reported to have been spotted by team masseuse Marcelo D'Andrea and later shared online by fitness coach Luis Martin—highlighted England’s unused preparations as Argentina advanced to face Spain in New York.

Jude Bellingham risks disciplinary action after slapping Argentina substitute Valentin Barco following England’s World Cup semi‑final loss. The midfielder also appeared angry with Jordan Pickford over Argentina’s equaliser and exchanged words with Lionel Messi during the match. Additional footage circulating online highlights several flashpoints involving Bellingham during England’s defeat, increasing scrutiny ahead of the upcoming Bronze match with France.

Rangers are pursuing midfielder Vanja Dragojevic after an initial bid was rejected, while also advancing interest in Jens Hjerto-Dahl. Partizan fear complications if Rangers shift priority to Hjerto-Dahl, as they plan to sign Timothy Ouma as Dragojevic’s replacement and face further interest in Ognjen Ugrešić. Cardiff City are competing for Hjerto-Dahl, with Tromso holding out for a higher fee. Rangers remain confident of securing their targets as they seek further squad reinforcement.

Rangers prepare to face St Etienne as Ian Cathro leads the French club’s revival following their failed promotion bid and managerial changes. Cathro, previously praised for work in Portugal and known for his time at Hearts, has made Jakob Breum his first major signing. The match reunites Cathro with Derek McInnes, who had publicly supported him during his early managerial challenges.

Haissem Hassan’s release clause at relegated Real Oviedo has dropped from £16m to £10m, with the club expected to accept offers near £4m due to a sell‑on obligation to Villarreal. Celtic and other clubs, including interest from Saudi Arabia, are monitoring the situation as they look to reinforce their squad. Hassan impressed at the World Cup with Egypt but delivered limited assists in 37 matches for Oviedo last season.

Ally McCoist praised Egypt’s Haissem Hassan after his standout performance against Argentina at the World Cup, coinciding with reports linking the 24‑year‑old Oviedo winger with a £4 million move to Celtic amid rival interest from Saudi Arabia. Hassan played a major role in Egypt’s two goals before Argentina staged a late comeback. McCoist highlighted the winger’s talent during ITV commentary, noting his impact on both goals and suggesting his transfer value is rising following the tournament.

Celtic supporters are pushing for substantial summer spending as concerns grow after three quiet transfer windows. Despite large cash reserves and expected income from potential player sales, activity has been minimal, creating pressure on the board to back Martin O'Neill. A review of the club’s most expensive signings shows that higher-value transfers have generally produced strong on‑field returns, while mid‑range deals have recently underperformed. The pattern reinforces calls for bold investment to rebuild the squad and maintain progress achieved in recent successful European campaigns.

UEFA denounces FIFA’s decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red‑card suspension, calling it an unprecedented and unjustifiable breach of established disciplinary rules during the World Cup. The organisation warns the move undermines competitive integrity, creates unfair precedent and risks damaging global trust in the sport, while noting lobbying influences and widespread backlash.

Donald Trump made three calls to FIFA lobbying for Folarin Balogun’s red‑card suspension to be overturned before the World Cup last‑16 match against Belgium. FIFA reversed the ban under a one‑year probation, sparking criticism from Belgium and scrutiny of Gianni Infantino. Trump celebrated the decision as correcting an injustice.

England advanced to the World Cup quarter‑finals after a dramatic 3–2 win over Mexico, highlighted by Jude Bellingham’s rapid two‑goal burst and Harry Kane’s decisive penalty. Despite going down to ten men after Jarell Quansah’s red card, England withstood intense late pressure. Media outlets worldwide praised England’s resilience and Bellingham’s impact, while Mexican sources lamented defensive lapses and the missed opportunity for a historic advance.

Partizan Belgrade is considering selling Vanja Dragojevic as Rangers push to complete a deal worth around £4.8 million, with a £3.8 million bid already submitted. The Serbian club is also evaluating significant interest in Ognjen Ugresic from Serie A sides, adding urgency as their season approaches. Partizan’s transfer chief says the club is prepared to react if either player departs. Rangers continue an active summer window, having already made multiple signings including Lawrence Shankland, Ben Godfrey, Dan Neil, Ross McCrorie and Ivor Pandur.

Judy Murray publicly criticises the Lawn Tennis Association for what she calls a flawed development pathway after another poor showing by British and Scottish players at Wimbledon. She highlights the lack of Scots in junior singles, early exits for all British teens, and reliance on the US collegiate system for producing male professionals. Murray urges adoption of the Italian model, with greater investment in clubs and coaches rather than centralised systems, while noting Arthur Fery’s success as a rare exception.

Alfie Devine has emerged as a strong transfer target for Celtic after an impressive loan season at Preston, whose option to buy the Tottenham midfielder has reportedly expired. Celtic have scouted him extensively, with manager Martin O'Neill personally observing him and offering a tacit endorsement. Preston had sought a permanent deal that would have broken their transfer record, but Celtic are now positioned as contenders for his signature. The club has also completed a one‑year deal for Alex Oxlade‑Chamberlain and continues negotiations for Camilo Duran, while considering a return for Marcelo Saracchi.

Celtic have had a £1.7 million offer rejected for Qarabag winger Camilo Duran, with the Azerbaijani club holding out for close to £3 million. Duran’s former coach, Sebastian Botero, describes the Colombian as a resilient and maturing talent who has thrived despite early challenges. Meanwhile, Swedish side Orgryte confirm transfer interest in defender Michael Parker but provide no details on offers, as Celtic continue to assess potential summer signings.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s significant influence at Al‑Nassr has been highlighted following the club’s appointment of Ange Postecoglou as manager, echoing Jorge Jesus’ earlier admission that Ronaldo helped secure his own hiring. Postecoglou enters a volatile environment marked by tensions that contributed to Stefano Pioli’s departure but will inherit a squad featuring major stars including Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman. His decision follows interest from Kazakhstan’s national team and comes as he seeks a fresh start after a difficult spell at Nottingham Forest.

Celtic are in advanced talks with Qarabag to sign Colombian forward Camilo Duran after an initial offer was rejected. The 24-year-old, who impressed in the Champions League and has two years remaining on his contract, is expected to command a record transfer fee for the Azerbaijan Premier League. Celtic see Duran as a versatile attacking option as the club faces uncertainty over Kelechi Iheanacho’s contract situation, potential interest in Daizen Maeda, and Jota’s fitness concerns.

Danny Rohl contrasted his new role at Red Bull Salzburg with his time at Rangers, highlighting Salzburg’s clear identity, unified leadership and effective collaboration with sporting director Marcus Mann. He suggested Rangers lacked similar structure and indicated that Jurgen Klopp played a key role in persuading him to join Salzburg. Rohl emphasised the club’s expectations, focus on youth development and ambition to regain domestic success and compete in Europe.

Partizan Belgrade seeks a swift resolution to Vanja Dragojevic’s potential transfer as Rangers push ahead with a £3.8 million bid, while the Serbian club holds out for an additional £1 million. Derek McInnes views Dragojevic as central to his rebuilding plans despite ongoing interest in Lewis Ferguson. Troyes are reluctant to sell Sankhoun Diawara, who is attracting attention from Rangers and Basel, though his expiring contract may force a decision. McInnes expresses satisfaction with early signings while acknowledging further work is needed during a major squad overhaul at Ibrox.

Jannik Sinner acknowledges ongoing concerns over his physical conditioning as he defends his Wimbledon title, admitting the issues that affected him at the French Open could recur despite efforts to address them. He reflects on his recent matches and discusses the need to find better long‑term solutions. After his win, he spoke positively about meeting Rory McIlroy, noting the mental similarities between golf and tennis.

Nico Raskin played a key role in Belgium’s comeback win over Senegal at the World Cup, stepping in to calm an argument between Youri Tielemans and Leandro Trossard before helping drive an improved team performance off the bench. Late goals from Romelu Lukaku and Tielemans forced extra time, with Tielemans scoring the decisive penalty. Coach Rudi Garcia praised the impact of his substitutes, including Raskin, as Belgium advanced to face the United States in the last 16.

Rangers begin a major summer overhaul under new manager Derek McInnes, with several new signings joining early preparations at Auchenhowie. Key players and recent arrivals are assessed as they compete for roles ahead of the new season, with the club aiming to regain stability and challenge Celtic’s dominance.

England endured boos from their supporters after conceding early to DR Congo in a poor start to their World Cup knockout match in Atlanta. Yoane Wissa missed a chance to double the lead, while Harry Kane was frustrated after being denied a penalty. Jude Bellingham reacted angrily to the opener, prompting BBC pundit Paul Robinson to criticise the team’s body language, including that of the midfielder and manager Thomas Tuchel.

Rangers have opened initial discussions with Bologna over a potential £17.2 million transfer for Scotland international Lewis Ferguson, a move that would break the Scottish transfer record. Derek McInnes is reportedly eager to reunite with his former Aberdeen player as part of a broader midfield overhaul that includes new signing Dan Neil. Bologna are willing to sell amid reduced playing time for Ferguson last season and ongoing interest from other European clubs.

Celtic seek key reinforcements as several players depart and rivals strengthen. Nobel Mendy is unlikely to join, with his camp indicating Premier League interest. Gvidas Gineitis is open to a move, with his agent acknowledging growing interest. Las Palmas goalkeeper Dinko Horkas will not sign, as the club insists no formal talks occurred. Kelechi Iheanacho attracts global interest from clubs in Europe and Brazil after Celtic declined to trigger his extension, leaving his future open.

Experts from across world football propose a wide range of candidates to replace Steve Clarke as Scotland manager, highlighting options from Serie A winner Stefano Pioli to experienced international coaches such as Kasper Hjulmand, Roger Schmidt and Per-Mathias Hogmo. Several profiles emphasise attacking football, European experience and familiarity with the British game. Additional suggestions include Hein Vanhaezebrouck, Kjetil Knutsen, Carlos Carvalhal, Kevin Muscat, Leonid Slutsky and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, each evaluated for suitability, availability and coaching style as the SFA searches for a transformative appointment for Euro 2028 qualifying.

Ben Godfrey has joined Rangers on a year‑long loan from Atalanta with an option to buy, becoming the club’s third summer signing after Lawrence Shankland and Ross McCrorie. After a loan spell at Brondby, the 28‑year‑old defender said he is excited to help pursue silverware. Manager Derek McInnes praised Godfrey’s experience and athletic qualities, expressing confidence in his impact for the upcoming season.

Rangers face a £17 million fee to sign Lewis Ferguson from Bologna, a sum that would surpass the Scottish transfer record. Bologna may reduce the cost if they pursue Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin, who is expected to be available this summer. Ferguson also attracts interest from Serie A and Premier League clubs, while Rangers’ new manager Derek McInnes aims to build a squad with a stronger Scottish core. The club has already secured Ross McCrorie and Lawrence Shankland as part of its rebuild.