Krishan Davis

GOAL evaluates major completed transfers from the 2026 summer window, grading the deals for the selling club, buying club and player. Chelsea’s shift toward experienced Premier League players is a central theme, with Danny Welbeck, Jordan Henderson, Maxence Lacroix and Morgan Rogers arriving amid questions over fees and squad balance. Real Madrid are praised for acquiring Yan Diomande, Denzel Dumfries and Bernardo Silva, while Liverpool are criticized for allowing Mohamed Salah, Ibrahima Konate and Andy Robertson to leave on unfavorable terms. Other major moves include Elliot Anderson to Manchester City, Sandro Tonali to Tottenham, Karim Adeyemi to Barcelona and Goncalo Ramos to AC Milan.

Arsenal are exploring a potentially record-breaking move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, whose contract has entered its final year amid prolonged wage negotiations. Real Madrid's pursuit of RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande has raised speculation that the club could be preparing to sell Vinicius, but reports suggest Diomande may complement rather than replace him. Arsenal could offer Vinicius the biggest contract in their history, although he may use that interest as leverage to secure improved terms in Madrid. Despite criticism over his consistency, physical suitability for the Premier League and tensions with sections of the fanbase, Vinicius remains widely regarded as one of the world's best players. The likeliest outcome is still a new Real Madrid contract, leaving Arsenal to look elsewhere.

Spain secured the 2026 World Cup title after defeating Argentina in a physical final decided by Ferran Torres’ extra-time goal. Kylian Mbappe claimed the Golden Boot and became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer, while Rodri earned the Golden Ball for his commanding midfield play. GOAL’s Team of the Tournament highlights standout performers including Vozinha, Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Cucurella and Lisandro Martinez in defence; Rodri, Jude Bellingham and Michael Olise in midfield; and Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland and Mbappe in attack.

England enter their World Cup semi-final against Argentina as perceived favorites due to the holders’ inconsistent knockout performances and defensive vulnerabilities. Argentina’s reliance on Lionel Messi, repeated extra-time escapes, and struggles against weaker opposition highlight key weaknesses that England’s pace and wide play could exploit. England’s stronger midfield, balanced attack, and Thomas Tuchel’s effective tactical management further bolster their chances. Suppressing Messi and winning midfield battles are viewed as decisive factors for England to reach their first World Cup final in 60 years.

France reached the 2026 World Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Morocco in Boston, driven by Kylian Mbappe’s goal and assist after an earlier penalty miss. Ousmane Dembele added the second as France controlled the match, limiting Morocco to few chances. Player ratings highlighted strong performances across France’s lineup as they advanced to face Belgium or Spain.

Portugal exited the 2026 World Cup after a 1-0 loss to Spain, with Mikel Merino scoring in stoppage time following an even but uninspiring match. Cristiano Ronaldo struggled in what appears to be the end of his World Cup career, while several Portugal players underperformed. Spain created key chances through Yamal and Torres, and Portugal’s late efforts, including a near-equalizer from Bernardo Silva, fell short. Manager Roberto Martinez received heavy criticism as the team's campaign ended in disappointment.